Devine Scripture

Philippians 4:13

What does Philippians 4:13 mean?

A plain-English look at Philippians 4:13 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Philippians 4:13 means

“I can do all things in him that strengtheneth me” sums up the secret: Christ supplies the strength to endure and obey in every circumstance Paul has described. The scope is comprehensive but contextual—“all things” refers to facing both scarcity and plenty, the demands and deprivations of gospel service. This is not a promise of effortless success in any venture but of sufficient grace for faithful living. Paul’s confidence rests in a living union with Christ, not in self-reliance. The same Lord who calls also enables. Therefore, contentment is not natural temperament; it is Christ’s power sustaining a servant through highs and lows alike.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

I can do all things in him that strengtheneth me.

KJV

King James Version · 1611

I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

I can do all things in him that strengtheneth me.

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

I am able to do all things through him who gives me strength.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

For all things I have strength, in Christ's strengthening me;

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

I can do all things in him who strengtheneth me.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

I have strength for all things in him that gives me power.

Context

This verse completes Paul’s testimony about learned contentment by naming its source. With that foundation, he turns to commend the Philippians’ partnership: though he is strengthened in Christ, their support still matters and is praiseworthy (verse 14). The following verses will recall their unique history of generosity (verses 15–16), clarify his motives (verse 17), and describe their gift as a sacrifice pleasing to God (verse 18), leading to the assurance that God will meet their needs (verse 19).

v.12I know how to be abased, and I know also how to abound: in everything and in all things have I learned the secret both to be filled and to be hungry, both to abound and to be in want.

v.13This passage

v.14Howbeit ye did well that ye had fellowship with my affliction.

Cross references

Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.

  • Colossians 1:11

    strengthened with all power, according to the might of his glory, unto all patience and longsuffering with joy;

  • Ephesians 6:10

    Finally, be strong in the Lord, and in the strength of his might.

  • 2 Corinthians 3:4

    And such confidence have we through Christ to God-ward:

  • Isaiah 40:29

    He giveth power to the faint; and to him that hath no might he increaseth strength.

  • John 15:4

    Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; so neither can ye, except ye abide in me.

  • Isaiah 45:24

    Only in Jehovah, it is said of me, is righteousness and strength; even to him shall men come; and all they that were incensed against him shall be put to shame.

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