Creator, Father, King #304

I can do all things through him who strengthens me.

BUNNIES AROUND THE WORLD, unite! It’s time to stand against the injustice being done to you! No more “lucky rabbit’s foot” trinkets!

In general, human beings are a superstitious bunch. Since ancient times, we have created all sorts of myths about luck, chance, and fortune.

Somehow, the notion that keeping a rabbit’s foot in your pocket would bring you good luck became popular in America around the beginning of the twentieth century. But the quest for good omens goes far beyond lopping off the hindquarters of poor Flopsy, Mopsy, and Cottontail. Virtually every culture in history has its share of quirky rituals and stories about trying to somehow curry mystical favor on your side.

Take today’s verse, for example. Philippians 4:13 is one of the most misused, misquoted verses in the Bible. Sadly, we often apply our superstitious tendencies to it. We must understand it properly, for when we do, we will comprehend both Scripture and God more clearly.

What’s It Mean?

These days, Philippians 4:13 has become somewhat of a Christian mantra. We see it everywhere: on T-shirts, posters, placards—even tattoos.

Christian athletes are notorious for twisting this verse out of context for personal achievement: With God on my side, I can accomplish anything! I can score five touchdowns, net a hat trick, average a double-double for the season, break all the records, and win the championship!

It’s the rabbit’s-foot-in-your-pocket mentality.

God doesn’t work like that. He isn’t a talisman, amulet, or a divine butler here to do your bidding. He is the Lord God Almighty. You are here to worship and glorify him!

Any rabbit’s-foot reading of Philippians 4:13 is a gross misrepresentation of its true message. The apostle Paul, who was imprisoned in Rome when he authored Philippians, was speaking about true spiritual contentment, regardless of circumstances. Only two verses earlier, he wrote, “Not that I was ever in need, for I have learned how to be content with whatever I have.” Paul knew he could be content at all times in life because God would be faithful to sustain him.

Don’t read your views into Scripture. Let Scripture inform your views of life and God. Then you will be able to truly do all things through him who strengthens you by finding your hope and contentment in him. God will be glorified . . . and bunnies everywhere will thank you.

Now What?

Whenever you read Scripture, always consider the context as you seek to understand the meaning of the passage.

Did You Know?

In a world created and governed by a holy, sovereign God, “luck” and “chance” do not exist (Psalm 139:16; Proverbs 16:9; Lamentations 3:37-38).