Philippians 4:13 – I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

Philippians 4 challenges us to focus on our frame of mind when faced with life’s difficulties.  It’s about how we respond when we come up against seemingly insurmountable odds. This is not about being empowered to change our circumstances; rather, it is about relying on God’s power to be faithful during conditions and situations beyond our control.  Most importantly, it addresses the type of character we must develop as believers to overcome the most difficult of conditions without anxiety or worry because our faith in Christ strengthens our resolve to persevere. The Apostle Paul helps us understand his point when he says in Philippians 4:11 that he has “learned to be content whatever the circumstances.” The Apostle Paul knew a little bit about struggle knowing that in Christ it would all work to good. 

If we cannot believe God when circumstances seem to be against us, we do not believe Him at all. – Charles Spurgeon

Philippians 4:13 meant so much to NBA superstar Stephen Curry that when it came time for him to renew his shoe contract with Nike back in 2012,  he asked the company to have the words “I can do all things” incorporated into his shoe.  Reportedly, one of the reasons why he left Nike was due to their refusal to work the scriptural reference into his shoe design.  When Curry eventually signed with Under Armour, “I can do all things” was included in the tongue of his shoe.  Curry has been writing Philippians 4:13 on his sneakers ever since his college days at Davidson.  He says that it is his mantra, how he gets up for games and it is why he plays the way he does.  For Curry, this scripture pushes him to achieve greatness every day. 

It is great to know the Word of God will be on our youth’s feet for many years to come.  Thank you, Stephen Curry, for your faithfulness.

Father help us to trust that your grace is sufficient and that we can do all things in the one whose name is above all names.  In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.