We are living in an American Christian sub-culture that over-uses (and sometimes poorly-uses) Scripture. Before I write anything more, I need you to understand that I mean NOTHING against our local Christian bookstores. In fact, I worked at one during college. But, having said that, the truth is that just one visit into our local Christian stores will exemplify this reality better than anywhere else.
Here is what I mean… there are T-shirts, coffee mugs, breath-mints, plaques, posters, toys, bracelets, cards, rings, wall art, sculptures, booklets, bumper-stickers, necklaces, and more all with certain Scriptures printed on them. In my experience, there are a handful of “popular” Scriptures on rotation that you can find on these items that you will begin to recognize throughout the store. Now of course, there is nothing wrong with Scripture, but I believe that we are experiencing an undesired side-effect as a result of this over-saturated Bible-marketing.
Certain Scriptures have become so kitschy and familiar that they have lost their significance and power. This has caused them to become more like motivational speech than the actual revealed words of God himself.
Here is a quick example of what I mean; Philippians 4:13. “I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.” This verse is awesome because it is so applicable, right? It applies to the test that you are about to take in school (that you may or may not have studied for). It applies to the job that you need to perform well in your career. It applies to the tough conversation you need to have with your children. This verse can apply to anything we go through in our lives, right? As Christians, this verse is like our “super-man trump card,” right? Well not really, because it becomes much bigger than that if you consider its context.
“Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me.” – Philippians 4:11-13 (ESV)
Philippians 4:13 is more than just the motivational verse for Christians to quote when they need a bit more encouragement for an endeavor in their life. It is far better than that! This verse reveals the powerful hope in Christ that enables a Christian can be content in all circumstances of life. Both in poverty and wealth. In need and in plenty. Both with abundant bank account balances and overdrawn bank account balances. Paul says, I have learned the secret in facing all of life’s trials and joys, and here it is: I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me! The good news of Christ is that He meets us where we are, no matter the circumstance. We are able to be content through all things because the power of Christ in us and working through us, and our circumstances do not limit or dictate the work of Christ in our lives.
The reality is that there is power in this verse that well exceeds the momentary source of motivation that comes from a “quotable catchphrase.”
Here is my point: Because of the familiarity and kitschiness of this verse, we can miss the power of this verse. And, unfortunately, this verse is not alone, and I could have chosen a dozen more just like it.
So, I have a challenge for you. The next time you see a familiar verse on a mug, on a shirt, or on a journal, stop and take a moment to read it in its context. I believe that we will find a richness in these verses that will overcome their familiarity to encourage us in Christ.