42: “I Can Do All Things through Christ Which Strengtheneth Me” (Philippians, Colossians)
Where did Paul write some of his happiest letters? Not from the comforts of a nice home or amid the beauty of a countryside in spring. Many of the Apostle’s most uplifting words were penned in prison, including the beloved line, “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” Perhaps Paul was more keenly aware of Christ’s strength during his time in need. In this week’s lesson, we are diving into Philippians and Colossians where Paul reminds us—especially those who feel trapped—that to live is to love Christ.
Segment 1
Scriptures:
Philippians 4:13 (I can do all things)
Philippians 4:8 (Seek after good things)
Philippians 1:12 (What happened to Paul was to further the gospel message)
CR: Articles of Faith #13
Segment 2
Scriptures:
Philippians 1:21-25 (To live is Christ)
Philippians 4:1 (Paul’s affectionate words to the Philippians)
Philippians 2:15 (Be blameless)
Segment 3
Scriptures:
Philippians 2:25-30 (The story of Epaphroditus)
Segment 4
Scriptures:
Philippians 3:5-9 (Paul’s sacrifice for the gospel)
Philippians 3:14 (Press forward)
Philippians 4:13 (I can do all things through Christ)
Words of the Prophets:
Some of God’s children live as though they are not planning on dying. Others live as if they will face no accountability for their actions. Are we making decisions for eternity or for today only? We cannot set our priorities on the temporal things of this world and be prepared for the eternal things of the next world.
Some of us will live long lives; some of us will live short lives. Long or short, our days are numbered. Death is a necessary part of our eternal progression and the fulness of joy that awaits faithful Saints. When we understand our existence from an eternal perspective, we understand that death is a merciful part of the plan of salvation. It is the gateway back to God’s presence.
Death is premature only if we are unprepared to meet God. So, we must prepare. (Russell M. Nelson, “Jesus Christ is Our Savior”, April 2023 Liahona)
Segment 5
Scriptures:
Colossians 1:15-20 (The Nature of God)
Colossians 1:23-24, 2:6-7 (If you want faith, continue in faith)
Words of the Prophets:
We must seek to be firmly rooted and converted to the gospel of Jesus Christ (see Colossians 2:6–7). We achieve this conversion by praying, by scripture reading, by serving, and by regularly partaking of the sacrament to always have His Spirit to be with us. We must also seek that mighty change of heart (see Alma 5:12–14) that replaces evil desires and selfish concerns with the love of God and the desire to serve Him and His children. (Dallin H. Oaks, “The Parable of the Sower”, April 2015 General Conference)
Translations:
Grounded = established (Greek)
Segment 6
Scriptures:
Colossians 4:6 (Speech seasoned with salt)
View transcript here.