Philippians 4:13 – Our Strength

“For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.” (Philippians 4:13)

This is one of my all-time favorite verses. I have claimed this verse as truth for many years and on many occasions. It’s even on my Bible cover. A children’s song called “I Can” resonates in my head, which helps kiddos remember this verse. More on that in a moment!

Context (Philippians 4:10-20): This verse is one of the ones people, like me, like to memorize, but the context may change the meaning. Paul is thanking the Philippians for their monetary gifts and support, and during his acknowledgment, he speaks of his own challenges as a missionary for Christ. What a powerful testimony of finding blessing in whatever season of life he lives in and pointing to God’s involvement in his life. Continue reading “Philippians 4:13 – Our Strength”

Mark 10:45 – Let’s Serve!

“For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many.” (Mark 10:45)

If this verse doesn’t empower you to serve others, I don’t know what will. The Son of Man here is Jesus, our King and friend. He set the perfect example for us in how he lived his life. He didn’t hide away in some palace, but he lived among the people, learning about their needs and meeting some in their darkest moments. And then he ransomed himself for us. That’s what devoted servanthood looks like to me.

Context (Mark 10:35-45) This verse concludes Jesus’ teaching about serving others, initially directed toward James and John. You may recall those brothers were fighting over who was the greatest, and they were asking Jesus for a special favor in the kingdom. Jesus turned his response to their request into a teachable moment for all his disciples. Jesus’ message reminded them that to be a great leader, you must first be a slave. Continue reading “Mark 10:45 – Let’s Serve!”

Psalm 103:1-5 – Why Praise God?

“Let all that I am praise the Lord;
with my whole heart, I will praise his holy name.
Let all that I am praise the Lord;
may I never forget the good things he does for me.
He forgives all my sins
and heals all my diseases.
He redeems me from death
and crowns me with love and tender mercies.
He fills my life with good things.
My youth is renewed like the eagle’s!” (Psalm 103:1-5)

While each of these verses could stand alone as a memory verse as well as a shout-out to God. Together, they pack a powerful punch to help us get our praise on! God does all this for each of us. We can’t help but want to sing our praises when we think of God in this way. Can I get an Amen?

Context (Psalm 103) This whole psalm speaks of the wonderful things God does for us. If you ever need a pick-me-up to get you through a tough time, this psalm reminds us over and over of all the benefits we enjoy as believers. We get a good glimpse at the character of our Heavenly Father. You’ll notice there are a number of familiar verses in this psalm to also reflect on. Continue reading “Psalm 103:1-5 – Why Praise God?”

Proverbs 3:5-6 – When You Don’t Understand

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart;
do not depend on your own understanding.
Seek his will in all you do,
    and he will show you which path to take.”
(Proverbs 3:5-6)

Can you think of a time when you were perplexed by something that was happening around you? God knew we wouldn’t understand everything we encounter in this world. That’s part of what makes discovery and adventure so much fun. We can marvel at God’s handiwork, we can seek out answers, and then we overflow with gratitude when those lightbulbs turn on. Our understanding of the complexities of God’s plan will always be limited.

Context (Proverbs 3): In the book of Proverbs, the nuggets of wisdom often stand alone. In this case, Solomon focuses his lessons on trusting God and what wisdom looks like. The fact those two themes appear in the same chapter are no accident. But as for context with a proverb, it’s good to remember the author was King Solomon whom God had granted great wisdom. Continue reading “Proverbs 3:5-6 – When You Don’t Understand”

John 15:7 – What Do You Want?

“But if you remain in me and my words remain in you, you may ask for anything you want, and it will be granted!” (John 15:7)

Let’s unpack this memory verse. It’s important to know from the start that this is not Jesus telling his followers that he is a magic genie in a bottle who will grant all wishes. That is not who Jesus is or ever will be. Jesus is talking about the importance of our relationship with him here.

Context (John 15:1-17): Jesus describes himself in this passage as the “true grapevine.” That image would have spoken more directly to his audience, but we are all familiar to a degree with the importance of pruning to keep our plants healthy and growing. We also know that branches cut off from the tree soon wither and die. Jesus doesn’t want us to be separated from him, but to abide in him, be in relationship with him, and trust him with our lives. Continue reading “John 15:7 – What Do You Want?”

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