That's Not What It Means!

I grew up playing sports on the high school and collegiate level and I cannot tell you how many times I have seen people write "Phil. 4:13" on their shoe or their wristband as they compete in an athletic competition. Even today, when you turn on ESPN to watch a football or basketball game, it is very common to see this. I think people see it as a good-luck charm or something... It's almost like they are saying, "God is going to give me the STRENGTH to win tonight! Yea!!" There is one problem with this: that is NOT what this verse means.

I want to destroy the myth that surround one of the most commonly quoted Scripture verses in the Bible. Philippians 4:13 says, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me," and it has NOTHING to do with succeeding in sports or any other part of life!

Paul, the author, is writing this letter to the church in Philippi while he is in jail. The main point of the letter is to encourage the believers in that church to live out their faith. Keep in mind, Paul was trying to assure them that he was in good spirits, even though he was in jail and there was a possibility of him being executed at any time.

So before we read Philippians 4:13, we must read what it says before that. It says, "for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. 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." It is only AFTER this that he goes on to say, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."

So what is this verse talking about: Victory? Success? Hitting the game-winning shot? No, no, and NO! This verse is talking about being content in EVERY situation and that the secret to living in life's hard times is trusting God enough to say that you can make it through anything because Christ will give you the strength. It is saying no matter what situation you are in, you have faith that God will be with you and see you through it. It is NOT a good-luck charm!

So when is it appropriate to use this verse? Check out the list below for a few ideas:

• When your parents get divorced.
• When you don't have the name-brand clothing.
• When your Dad gets cancer.
• When your boyfriend/girlfriend breaks up with you.
• When you break your wrist before a big game and cannot play.
• When your Grandma dies.
• When your family doesn't have the money to get you all the latest toys and gadgets.
• When your coach seems to hate you.
• When you can't seem to catch a break in ANY part of life.

This is a verse about contentment, not victory in sports. In fact, I don't think God really cares who gets the victory in sports, as long as He gets the glory.