Most anyone that has been a Christian for very long knows this Bible verse. It is a tremendous promise with a lot of potential for practical Christian living.

I find this verse a blessing each time I focus on it. I have, however, seen misinterpretations of this verse all too often. It does not mean that you will be the best that there is in whatever you are doing – although some popular plaques and pictures indicate that it could.

Among other Bible verses about strength, this verse refers to the victory that God will give when you need it for obedience and service to Him. In other words, if you are sincere about serving God, you will always find that He will give power to do all that He wants – whether it is pleasant at that moment or not. It does not always mean that there will be a positive outcome.

It does mean that you, as a believer, can have victory…

• Over temptation – any one!
• Over sin – God can break the chains of any sin!
• Over the world – victory over the things that the world worries about and craves for!
• Over Satan – you do not need to fear him!
• Over the thought life – you can have “the mind of Christ”!
• Over the trouble and problems you will face today – they do not need to stress you out!
• Over whatever prevents you from being a better Christian!

The result of knowing and using this verse – and others like it – is that you can continue to be a growing Christian. The only thing that really prevents you from growing as a believer is you.

For a better victory, strengthen your spirit – and resolve to continue – daily by getting in the Word and praying, and by going to church regularly.

What’s stopping you from being a better Christian?

Today’s world has brought about a lot of uncertainty. Many people are panicking and fearful because of COVID, more possible shutdowns, and economic situations.

The disciples also experienced great fear when Jesus sent them out into a lake and a terrible storm came (Mt. 14). They had tried hard to get to the other side of this small lake. They did not yet understand that even though Jesus was not physically with them, that His power was not limited to His physical presence. Because they could not see Him, they felt that He could not help them in their present distress.

As soon as Jesus approached them while walking on the water toward them, He told them: “Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid” (Jn. 14:27). These words immediately brought cheer and joy to their hearts – just as they can bring those same things to the child of God’s heart today.

Instead of panicking and feeling like things are out of control, you can be sure that God knows what is happening. Remember that God is not the One that puts fear in your heart – that is the devil’s work (“For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind” II Tim. 1:7).

The apostle Paul experienced a lot of trouble in his life as he served God. In spite of it, he penned the words of today’s text: “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.”

Christian, this verse means that because God is with you and in you – that whatever God wants you to do – you can do with His help. He loves and blesses those who do His will. He is also going to give you the enablement to do it as well.

In response to Jesus’ appearance on the water, Peter became so excited about seeing Jesus, that he completely forgot about the storm. Then, he asked Jesus to let him walk to Jesus on the water – which he did for a few moments. Of course, he did it with God’s power. This reveals that God can help you in whatever situation you are in today – if you are seeking to do His will. Getting with Him in the prayer closet will help you “see” Jesus in your spirit and He will take away your fear and replace it with His peace.

Christian, have you asked Him today to help you not be fearful and to continue to trust Him?