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     There are times when we look at our lives and think that the deck has been stacked against us. We are facing a deadline or what seems an impossible situation and sometimes we think our best choice is just to give up or give in. The mountain is just too high. There is no one who is helping us. St. Paul faced many of these situations and while it was clear that many times he did not know how he was going to succeed, he went ahead. He lets the Church of Philippi in on his secret: “I can do all things in him who strengthens me.” (4:13)

     This is a strong act of faith on his part that we can learn from. Our power does not come from physical strength or our wits or our knowledge. These things can be easily overcome from something like fear. If we rely only on ourselves, we will fail in the end. Paul relies on Jesus Christ. He knows that if Christ sends him to do something, he will do it. God makes the impossible possible. He removes our fear and calms us when we are faced with serious situations.

     People often talk about their strength coming from within, but Paul sees that we can only grow if we realize that this interior strength is actually the Holy Spirit dwelling in us, giving us courage and hope. If we are faced with serious or difficult situations today, let us take St. Paul’s words to heart. We will not be able to control what happens, but we know that we will  come through it if we rely on the Lord, who gives us courage, wisdom and hope.