Grace Through His Strength

July 10, 2019

Not that I speak from want, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need. I can do all things through Him who strengthens me. Philippians 4:11-13

In this familiar letter, Paul is writing from a Roman prison. Though it is far from the worst circumstance he has ever faced, separation from loved ones, living in prison, false accusations hanging over your head . . . these are never good conditions for life. Yet Paul doesn’t raise a single word of complaint. He assures his friends that he is not in need, and then tells them that God has enabled him to thrive regardless of his circumstances. He testifies that he knows the joy of prosperity and the challenge of scarcity. But his outward circumstances do not determine his outlook or his output. He is hopeful, optimistic, encouraging, and believing. How is he able to do this? He gives all credit to the grace of Jesus Christ. He says, “I can do all things through him who strengthens me.”

This is another amazing paradox of the faith we share. As Paul pointed out from his own experience, and centuries of Christ followers have proven also, it is in our weakness that the strength of God‘s grace is showcased. When we are at our weakest, He has the opportunity and desire to be the strongest in us. His grace never runs out, never grows weary, never gives up. In our life journeys we will encounter many situations where our own strength is completely inadequate. We cannot make it on our own. But when we open ourselves to receive God‘s grace, when we actively access His provision for us, grace flows into our lives with the strength of a mighty river. Where we once felt ourselves going under, now we are being borne along on waves of grace. Obstacles are overcome by the force of grace.

A few lyrics from an Elevation worship song “Grace Like a Wave” express it so well:
I will jump into the water where my soul can be satisfied
And Your love is overflowing from within me, and it won't run dry
There's no limit to Your promise, Jesus, You have done it all for me
Jesus, You have done it all for me
Grace comes like a wave crashing over me . . .

Powerful grace is what we need most and is available to us when we need it most. It is this grace that strengthens us when we are at our weakest and gives us power to stand.

• Can you think of an experience where you felt the supernatural grace of God carry you? Thank Him. Do you or someone in your circle need carried by grace right now? Talk to God about it.