I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me (Philippians 4:13, New King James Version).

I thought broadcasting was my calling. The career had its perks, but after a few years I realized it was not for me. While working in the financial aid department in a local university, I decided to pursue a graduate degree, but was not clear on the direction to take. One day my supervisor said, “You are in the wrong profession. You should be a counselor because people are always flocking to your office to talk.” That comment prompted me to meet with the career counselor. We discussed a career in counseling or social work. I chose social work.

The road was long and hard. I worked full-time, had an infant, a husband to care for, and attended school in the evenings. There were many late nights and endless hours of study. I prayed and asked others to pray for me. I needed God’s strength to make it through. Finally, I earned a Master of Social Work degree. For the last seventeen years, I have been able to help countless people.

Paul, too, faced a lot of challenges. He was hungry, in need, and brought low. But he boasted in the fact that he made it because Jesus strengthened him. The Message Bible translates Philippians this way, “Whatever I have, wherever I am, I can make it through anything in the One who makes me who I am.”

Remember this: When God places something in your heart, He will enable you to complete it no matter how hard it seems. Do not feel it is insurmountable. God shows no favoritism. If He did it for me, He will do it for you.

Prayer: Thank you, God, that you direct our paths and give us strength for the journey.

  • Briefly share a goal that you would not have accomplished except for the strength of God. Join the conversation.

  • Reprinted with permission, this week’s blog is an excerpt from “Praise from the Pews: A 70 Day Devotional” (2017). If you were encouraged by this devotional, you will really be blessed by the other 89 devotionals offered in “Praise from the Pews.” It may be purchased on the home page of this web site and will be shipped to you speedily.