I can do all this through him who gives me strength.
- Philippians 4:13
 
What is our strength for?
 
Athletes put this verse on their eye black. We use it to pump ourselves up for new business launches. But this verse isn’t about our achievement.
 
Paul has been writing to his friends about their acts of service and struggles to live lives of generous service. He points to Christ as an example. And here, he turns back to Christ and shares that Christ is doing something more than modeling a life of service for us.
 
Jesus doesn’t just serve; he empowers us to serve. He gives us strength to serve. The “this” in this passage has to do with contented service.
 
We want to invite you to pray today, asking the Lord to strengthen you for service:
 
Jesus,
We’re grateful for the ways you have served us.
Your example inspires us.
Please empower us
To serve
You
And all you bring our way.
Amen.