Strength

What it means

Paul says he has learned to be content in whatever state he is in, knowing how to be humbled and how to abound, and then he writes the famous line: I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Read as he wrote it, the all things are plenty and hunger, abundance and need, faced from a prison cell.

Why every Christian should know it

The context saves this verse from becoming a slogan about ambition or achievement. It is not a promise that Christ will power your plans. It is strength to endure and stay content in whatever circumstance God permits.

Cross references

• 1 Timothy 6:6-8
• 2 Corinthians 12:9
• Colossians 1:11

Pray it back

Lord, teach me contentment the way you taught Paul, and strengthen me for whatever this season holds.

What it means

Those who wait on the Lord renew their strength, rising up with wings like eagles, running without weariness, walking without faintness.

Why every Christian should know it

It names waiting as the way strength is renewed, which is the opposite of how we usually try to recover.

Cross references

• Isaiah 40:29
• Psalms 27:14
• 2 Corinthians 4:16

Pray it back

Lord, I am tired. I will wait on you rather than push harder. Renew my strength.

What it means

God commands Joshua to be strong and courageous, not because of Joshua's ability, but because the Lord his God is with him wherever he goes.

Why every Christian should know it

Courage is commanded and then given a reason. The reason is presence, not personality.

Cross references

• Deuteronomy 31:6
• Matthew 28:20
• Psalms 27:1

Pray it back

Lord, you are with me wherever I go today. Make me strong and courageous in that.

What it means

God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble, so we will not fear though the earth gives way.

Why every Christian should know it

It is written for the moment stability itself is shaking, which is when most other comforts fail.

Cross references

• Psalms 62:8
• Nahum 1:7
• Hebrews 13:6

Pray it back

God, you are my refuge and my strength. I will not fear, even as things give way.