From Struggle to Strength: Turning Difficulties into Opportunities by Embracing Who You Are in Christ!

I can do all things through Christ which strengths me.

Philippians 4:13

This was one of the first scriptures I ever learned. My pastor frequently quoted it, making it one of his all-time favorites. I appreciated it because it was short, memorable, and impactful but mostly because it was short!

In context, this verse is part of the Apostle Paul's letter to the Philippians, written while he was imprisoned. Paul discusses the theme of contentment and reliance on Christ regardless of circumstances.

In the previous verses (Philippians 4:10-12), Paul talks about how he has learned to be content in every situation, whether he is in need or has plenty. He mentions that he has experienced both extremes—having abundance and suffering from lack—but through it all, he has found the secret to being content.

Philippians 4:12 (NIV):"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 and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want."

In context, Philippians 4:13 reflects Paul's understanding that his strength and ability to endure all things comes not from his own power, but from Christ who empowers him. This verse is often applied to a wide range of situations, encouraging believers to trust that Christ will give them the strength to face any challenge, whether spiritual, emotional, or physical.

When work gets tough: "I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength."

When home life is challenging: "I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength."

When college feels overwhelming: "I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength."

When financial burdens weigh heavy: "I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength."

When a new job presents obstacles: "I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength."

During hard times, it’s crucial to confess the Word of God rather than speaking negatively, complaining, or expressing frustration. Our success relies on the declarations and faith that flow from our mouths and hearts. If we proclaim failure and defeat, we may indeed experience those outcomes.

However, if we speak words of power, victory, might, and strength, we become a force for triumph, no matter the enemy’s attacks. 

Our words shape our reality, and by aligning them with God’s promises, we can overcome any challenge.

So what does "through Christ" mean?

"Through Christ" refers to the way in which believers find strength, guidance, and empowerment by their connection to Jesus Christ. It means that Christ’s power works in and through us, enabling us to endure and succeed.

It implies that Christ provides the necessary power and capability to overcome challenges. This empowerment is more than just a boost; it’s a deep, sustaining strength that comes from being in union with Christ.

Acting “through Christ” involves a deep faith in His promises and a recognition that all abilities and outcomes are ultimately a manifestation of His power and work within their lives. This perspective transforms challenges into opportunities for Christ’s strength and wisdom to manifest, ensuring that every achievement is in harmony with His divine plan.

God is constantly working to help us understand and embrace our true identity, which is intricately and inseparably linked to Christ.

Philippians 4:13 highlights this profound truth by showing us that our identity is not meant to be separate from Christ but deeply intertwined with Him. This verse emphasizes that our strength, purpose, and achievements are directly tied to our relationship with Jesus.

By acknowledging that we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us, we recognize that our true identity is shaped and defined by our connection to Him. Our abilities and successes are not solely our own but are a reflection of Christ’s empowering presence in our lives.

God’s intention is for us to see ourselves through the lens of this divine relationship, where our worth and potential are found in our unity with Christ.

When we struggle to understand our identity in Christ, we may feel abandoned and isolated, viewing our suffering as a sign of divine detachment and misunderstanding God’s personal involvement in our lives. This disconnect can lead us to unintentionally deny the transformative work of Jesus, not realizing that our identity is drastically altered once we accept Him as our Lord. In reality, our identity is profoundly changed through our relationship with Christ, affirming that we are new creations. As stated in 2 Corinthians 5:17 (NIV):

"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!"

Knowing who you are in Christ is vital for standing strong against attacks from the enemy on your identity. The devil will assault you just to be sure you have no understanding of your identity in Christ. The enemy wants you to do everything in your strength because he knows you won't get far.

If Satan can keep you from knowing who you are in Christ and away from understanding the great exchange Jesus did, then he can keep you from the power and authority that is GIVEN to you, as a believer

Your beliefs may limit you, causing you to fall short and struggle in fulfilling God's calling for your life.

Your calling hinges on understanding who you are in Christ, which is why Satan attacks your sense of identity. To help you affirm your identity and strength in Christ, here are a few key verses:

2 Corinthians 5:17 (KJV): "Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new."

Galatians 2:20 (KJV): "I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me."

Romans 8:16 (KJV): "The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God:"

Isaiah 54:17 (KJV): "No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and their righteousness is of me, saith the Lord."

May this journey of discovering your identity in Christ bring you newfound strength and clarity. As you'd dive deeper into the scriptures and embrace your true self in Him, may you experience His transformative power in every area of your life. Let your faith grow stronger, your purpose become clearer, and your heart be filled with His peace and joy. Remember, with Christ as your foundation, there are no limits to what you can achieve. Keep seeking, keep believing, and let His light guide you toward the incredible plans He has for you.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, I thank You for Your Word and for the love and provision You continually offer us. You are always guiding us to understand our true identity as Your children. Your Word is rich with insights into our new identity in Christ. I lift up the person reading this and ask You to instill in them a deep desire to explore the "in Christ" and "through Christ" scriptures. May they gain a profound revelation of their ability to accomplish all things through You. Let them realize that, with Your strength, they can achieve more than they ever imagined. What once seemed like struggles can become triumphs as they live life through You. I pray that You ignite a passion in them for Your Word and a heart eager to discover more about themselves through You. I ask this in Jesus’ name. Amen.

© 2024 Amanda Allen. All rights reserved.

Please share this message with a hurting world and respectfully direct readers back to Kingdom Revelations. www.KingdomRevelations.com