A lot of us remember Philippians 4 because of verse 13: "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." But let's also consider the surrounding verses. They offer a meaningful affirmation of how Christ often strengthens us.
Paul talks about learning contentment in abundance and scarcity. Then he pauses to thank the Philippians for sharing in his troubles. And there it is.
We admire so-called "self-made" people. We celebrate those who pull themselves up by their bootstraps, as if success were a solo achievement. But let's be real. Paul endured prisons, beatings, and hardships, but he never pretended he endured them alone. The strength of Christ came not only through an inward spiritual resilience but also through the outward faithfulness of God's people. Their gifts, prayers, encouragement, and partnership became tangible expressions of God's care.
Looking back over my life and ministry, I can't point to a single accomplishment that belongs only to me. Every meaningful step has been shaped by God's presence and by people who believed in me. Some offered wisdom. Others opened doors or made sure I had what I needed to accomplish my goals. Many prayed and prayed. They reminded me that God's grace often comes as a familiar face.
Maybe that's a reason the church is called the body of Christ. God's work can happen as ordinary people carry one another. So, truth be told, there are no self-made people, no solo saints in the kingdom of God.
Whatever strength we have is a gift from Christ. And many of those gifts arrive through the hands, voices, and hearts of those people God places beside us. Of course, be thankful for what you may have accomplished. But also make sure to pause to thank God for the people who helped you get there. In doing so, you'll discover you've never walked alone.
Stay blessed...john
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