Philippians 4:13 "I can do all things through him who strengthens me.".Okay, now having a Bible verse as a pet peeve probably isn't a great thing. But hear me out. It isn't so much the verse, but the way it is used...
Do you hear that?!
That is the sound of a Bible verse being ripped from context. This verse, Philippians 4:13, all on its own has been used as a Christian defense for attempting stupid things. Because you are a Christian, doesn't mean you will be able to run a marathon without training, you won't become a MLG COD Player with out gaming, and you won't pass that big exam at school if you don't study. God CAN do those things, but lets be honest, He won't always allow that happen if you don't put in the work.
So what does this Philippians 4:13 mean? .
Philippians 4:10-12 "I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at length you have revived your concern for me. You were indeed concerned for me, but you had no opportunity. Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need..."Time for some context. Paul was writing this from prison. Prison is not a fun place to be, I think we can all agree on that. But what is Paul saying? He isn't saying that with God he would be able to break out of Prison and live a free life. Paul says that with God he is able to be content in all situations. Even the unpleasant ones. Paul is being content in prison and I find it hard to be content while being hungry for more then an hour.
Now just to be really clear, what is contentness?(I actually don't think contentness is a word, but I'm in I.T. not English.) In this passage the word "content" is used, It's the only time the Bible uses this Greek word for content, and we are told that it basically means "not needing aid in spite of external circumstances." Paul was fully trusting in God and through that he had everything he could ever need, even though he was in Prison.
Another thing I want to make clear just so we can end this with no confusion. Contentness doesn't mean being complacent or stagnant. As an example of what I mean: I currently live in my parents basement, I am single, and only work part time hours. What this verse ISN'T saying is to just accept where I am in life and do nothing. God wants us to be useful. Of course He wants our relationship with Him to be number one priority. But he also wants us to work hard, to enjoy life, and live productive lives.
The trick is to do things in God's timing. To wait for God to prepare our path, to be patient. This is the hard part. But judging by the Christians who have accomplished this task, it is so totally worth the wait. Contentness breeds patience. Or vice versa?
Well that is all I got to say. I hope you can follow my train of thought. If you can't, to bad. You'll just have to be content not knowing.
Nolan Out!
P.S. I love living at my parents house. I love my family. It's just that I am getting older and want my own space.
P.P.S If anyone knows any Christian, single, attractive females. Feel free to give them my email.
