The apostle Paul wrote that he was able to do all things by the power of Christ within (Philippians 4: 13). By extension, that applies to all who are Christian.

But does “doing all things” truly mean any and everything imaginable? Nope. That’s ridiculous. What then does “doing all things” mean?

Looking at verses 10-14, “doing all things” is within the context of being able to persevere within whatever situations we might find ourselves while serving the purposes of the Lord. In doing the Lord’s work, whether it be ministering to others or simply living the godly life, Paul makes it clear that when the Lord calls on us to do something, there is a peace and a strength available to draw upon.

Paul gives examples of some of the situations he found himself in, but nonetheless was able to move forward. He did so when he was in prosperity. He did so when he was poor and hungry. There are other examples, too, of struggles that Paul underwent in the cause of the gospel. I think of him in, other parts of the New Testament, being beaten and stoned by the Jews; being shipwrecked; and imprisoned.

Yet, in the midst of it all, he could do all things that were called for; all things that needed to be done to further the gospel. He did it by denying himself and relying on the grace of Jesus.

He survived and wants us to know that we can get through all kinds of circumstances too; this, even when we’re fully satisfied or empty, or whether we’re in abundance or in little.

The point he was making to the Philippians, and to us, is that “doing all things” means “enduring all circumstances” by turning to the contentment, strength, and ability that’s available in the Lord.

Those riches will be provided to us as we serve the cause of Jesus. Paul says that in verse 19.