Paul wrote by THE SPIRIT in Philippians chapter 4:
11 Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content:
12 I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need.
13 I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
Each of us faces many challenges in life, and some of those challenges seem insurmountable at times. Thankfully, we do not have to experience them alone for Our Lord Jesus Christ has given us The Holy Spirit to comfort us in those times. Knowing that Jesus Christ is never far away provides us the strength to endure all things which come our way.
Paul had a great anointing on him to minister the Gospel yet he suffered many trials for Christ. We’ve been led to believe that we should not suffer at all but the reality does not confirm that teaching. If we are to be “overcomers”, then we must overcome something and/or someone. Why do we need to be strengthened? So that we can overcome the challenges in whatever form they take.
Paul wrote by THE SPIRIT in Ephesians chapter 6:
10 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might.
11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.
Why do we need to be strong if we were not going to be challenged? These Scriptures are meant to prepare us spiritually and emotionally for what lies ahead. As we embrace these passages, our faith will increase as well as our courage. When the challenges do confront us, we will not be moved but will work through those challenges and stand on FATHER’S promises to us.
14 Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness,
15 and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace;
16 above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one.
17 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God;
18 praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints
The Truth will always prevail over the circumstances if we do not waver in our stand. The Word of FATHER is greater than any sickness or disease as well as any other obstacle we may face. We must not fear the obstacles but instead exercise our faith to overcome them. As we dwell and meditate on these passages, our strength will increase and we will truly be able to proclaim “ I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me!”