When my kids were young, we were a homeschooling family. I wanted to invest in their holistic development based on Biblical principles. Also, the nearest school was a one hour bus ride away, and it was rated one of the lowest academically in Washington State. The last two reasons alone were compelling reasons for my kids to learn from home.

My daughter was in second grade when she started getting exasperated by spelling lessons. She would whine, “I can’t do it. It’s too hard.” After several sessions of her griping and throwing up her hands in defeat, I came up with a plan.

She would memorize Philippians 4:13.

I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me (NKJV).

The moment she said, “I can’t…” she had two choices. She could either write out the verse multiple time or she could sing a fun children’s song for ten minutes.

I can do all things, all things, all things.
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
Philippians 4:13.

How many things can you do? All things!
How many things can you do? All things!

The song quickly lost its charm!

Eventually my daughter stopped saying, “I can’t…” She might have thought it or mumbled it under her breath but she had learned not to say it out loud.

In hindsight this wasn’t a very good method of discipline. It didn’t develop love for God’s Word. It was a source of punishment. It also didn’t promote being honest about feelings and learning how to manage them. Instead I shut my daughter down. I would do this differently if given the chance.

Nevertheless, my mistakes do not negate the power of God and His Word. In fact, the verses before v. 13 expound on the hardships the Apostle Paul faced.

I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want (Philippians 4:11-12 NIV).

And then…I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me (NKJV).

Life can seem overwhelming sometimes. It can deal harsh blows.

You feel weak.
You lack the ability.
You have no control over a situation.
You struggle to lead.
You face the insurmountable.
You’re at the end of the rope.
You can’t see the light at the end of the tunnel.

Sometimes taking the next step can seem impossible. It’s through Jesus that you find contentment and strength the carry on.

Notice that the verse doesn’t stop at “I can do all things.” That would simply be positive self-talk. The truth is “I can’t do all things.” The key is in the second half of the sentence “…through Christ who strengthens me.”

You can’t but God can.

And He does when you place your trust in Him.

Let your focus move from yourself to the One who strengthens you.

Spend time pondering and applying the verse to your situation. Write it down or sing it if that works for you. Whatever you do, allow the truth of God’s Word to sink into your spirit.

As you do, you’ll find that you thrive in life and leadership.