Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.

Ever since I had my stroke I cannot see well enough to tie a leader to a fly. That makes fly fishing rather difficult. I have to allow my son to tie my fly and then I can cast into the waters to enjoy fishing. I have limits, there are some things I just cannot do for myself.

When you read the opening verse, where is your focus, attention, or even intension? If I can do all things, what are my limits? Am I limited? It does say I can do all. Are there things you have tried and like me with the fishing leader become frustrated with our inabilities? If you are like me, the answer would be yes.

Where in this verse are our constraints, our limits? If you look closely to the term “through Christ” you will discover exactly what those limits are for us all. Jesus Christ is God in the first person. He is God and God is unchanging. You will never find Jesus acting like someone else. He never does anything out of character of who He is as God. We so often want to do things sincerely, even righteously, even lovingly, but are frustrated by perceived failure.

I have heard “God has put it on my heart” so many times I have begun to ignore the words. Sincerity, righteousness and love are important conditions of our heart walk with God, but do not speak to God’s will. His will is done not out of our heart condition or obedience of faith. Those things only open the door for Jesus, whether He steps through and does God’s will isn’t under our control.

Being frustrated with my limits doesn’t get the leader tied. I humble myself and ask my son to do this thing for me.

John 14:13 And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son.