Phil 4:13

Often I think about this verse in Philippians. I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength. I repeat it quite often to myself , but have noticed it becoming more of a go to verse and more of a negative connotation. This verse, that is suppose to bring encouragement is becoming more of a discouragement.

The other day, while on the treadmill, I was thinking. What else is there to do? So, I began to think about walking faster and at a higher incline and how my shins hurt and my legs burn....then I realized I kept quoting Phil 4:13 to myself. I am glad I have a verse to cling to, but I realize how americanized I have made the verse itself. I have begun to interpret this verse as saying "I can do all things through Christ (NOW AND ON THE FIRST TRY) who gives me strength....

This is americanized. Expecting immediate results. Expecting things on my timeline. Expecting things my way. NOT SO. yes I can do all things through Christ, but on his timeline and in His plans. Some things take work, like exercise :/ and eating healthy. Some things take patience. Somethings aren't meant to work out. Whatever the case, I am able now to have a new sense of refreshment towards these words of encouragement.

I just think it is funny that God uses the most random times to show up and set my paths straight once again. Probably because I had slowed down enough to listen.