Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary Philippians 4:13

"I can do all things in him that strengtheneth me." — Philippians 4:13 (ASV)

Paul’s outlook was no Stoic philosophy, however. He did not trace his resources to some inner fortitude that would enable him to take with equanimity whatever life brought him. Instead, his strength for “everything” lay in the One who continually empowered him. Although the name “Christ” does not appear in the Greek text, surely Paul has him in mind (cf. 1 Timothy 1:12). He was not desperately seeking a gift from the Philippians, for he knew that Christ would give him the strength for whatever circumstances were in store for him.