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Philippians 4:13

Philippians 4:13 Bible Verse: Text, Meaning, and Context

Philippians 4:13 is a short, well-known statement about strength in Christ. In its setting, Paul is talking about learning contentment whether life is easy or hard. The verse points beyond self-reliance to steady help from Christ in every circumstance.

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What happens in Philippians 4:13?

In this part of Philippians, Paul thanks the church for its renewed concern and support. He explains that his joy does not depend on material comfort, because he has learned contentment in both abundance and need. He knows what it is to face hardship and to have enough, and he says that Christ gives him the strength to live faithfully in either case. The surrounding verses also praise the Philippians for sharing in his trouble and meeting his needs more than once.

Philippians is a letter written by Paul to a church he had partnered with in ministry. In chapter 4, he is closing with thanks for their generosity while also explaining his own contentment. Verse 13 sits in that discussion, so it is best read with verses 10-16, where Paul links Christian strength to dependence on Christ, not to personal achievement alone.

Themes to notice

  • ContentmentPaul has learned to remain steady in both lack and plenty.
  • Strength in ChristHis ability to endure comes from Christ's sustaining power.
  • Christian partnershipThe Philippians' giving shows faithful care in gospel work.

Questions for Philippians 4:13

  • How does Paul's idea of contentment shape the way you read this verse?
  • What does it mean to rely on Christ for strength in both hardship and abundance?
  • How does the surrounding passage change the way this verse is often applied?

Read the full text of Philippians 4:13 below, then open it in the reader to highlight, take notes, or ask follow-up Bible questions. No account is required to read.

Philippians 4

The Generosity of the Philippians

10Now I rejoice greatly in the Lord that at last you have revived your concern for me. You were indeed concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it.11I am not saying this out of need, for I have learned to be content regardless of my circumstances.12I know how to live humbly, and I know how to abound. I am accustomed to any and every situation—to being filled and being hungry, to having plenty and having need.13I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.14Nevertheless, you have done well to share in my affliction.15And as you Philippians know, in the early days of the gospel, when I left Macedonia, no church but you partnered with me in the matter of giving and receiving.16For even while I was in Thessalonica, you provided for my needs again and again.

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