Philippians 4:12

"I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty.  I have learned the secret of being content in any situation."

As you probably know, life is a series of ups and downs.  A cycle of joy and sorrow, easier times and harder times, successes and failures, peace and conflict.

Paul understood that sometimes his needs were met and sometimes not.  Sometimes his situation was inspiring, sometimes almost unbearable.  He says he has learned the secret to dealing with life.  He shares that secret in Philippians 4:13... "I can do everything through Him who gives me strength."  Paul has learned that in his own strength he cannot handle everything that life brings, from one end of the spectrum to the other.  That doesn't mean that he handled everything perfectly and easily from this verse forward.

Even when we know the secret, we forget, or are weak, or rebellious, or don't apply the truth we know.  I am sure Paul struggled with pride and self-pity, like we all do, even after penning these insightful words.

For me, I am still learning and won't stop.  I am weak, do not apply truth and sometimes forget.  I also have pride issues and am self-pitying.  But, as I confess that, I also know that I can do everything through Him who gives me strength. Lord forgive me and forgive us all. We need you.

Humbly in His Service,

Pastor Fred