A staple amidst Christian calendars and encouragement lists, Philippians 4:13 is often taken out of context and misused.
When reading this section of scripture in context we see that Paul starts by praising God for the renewed concern and generosity he received from the Philippian church (Phil. 4:10, 4:18). He acknowledges that their giving comes at a personal cost to them - it is a sacrifice (Phil. 4:18) - and in making this sacrifice they are now partakers in his current suffering (Phil. 4:14).
Paul thanks the Philippians for their long history of generosity which started when his ministry first began almost ten years prior (Phil. 4:15), continued after he left for Thessalonica (Phil. 4:16), and now, once again, they have given generously to supply him with all he needed and more (Phil. 4:18).
Our focus verse is sandwiched in the middle between Paul's recognition of the affection the Phillipians have for him, and the need to thank them for their fragrant offering. Paul makes clear that he is not in further need (Phil. 4:11). To the contrary, he writes that he finds contentment in both the good and hard times (Phil. 4:12).
While true that Paul has landed upon hard times, eased by the generosity of the Philippians, he counts it all worthwhile because of the surpassing worth of Christ (Phil. 3:8-11). It is seeing the glory of God through Christ that strengthens Paul.
To summarise; the point of this passage is not that God provides strength for us to pass through our modern trials. It is the fulfilment we get from living a life of service to Christ Jesus and knowing our Heavenly Father through him that is worth immeasurably more than any hardship.
To our God and Father be glory forever and ever. Amen.
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