The Tribune

By ALESHA CADET

Tribune Features Reporter

acadet@tribunemedia.net

THERE are many scripture readings people choose to live by and never forget, but one of the most well known bible verses that is often quoted is, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

Believers young and old often have this scripture hung over their doors in their homes, a cubicle in the office or even tattooed on their skin. It seems as if the connection these Christians have with this particular Philippians 4:13 scripture is one that they hold dear and near. 

Tribune Religion asked a number of Bahamians how important the scripture is and what it means to them. The majority of the answers circulated around the fact that “once a person has God on their side, they cannot go wrong”.

For Xena, a Pentecostal follower, this scripture is important because it goes hand in hand with her faith in God. Speaking about the story of David when he was faced with Goliath, she said that is a pure example of what the scripture signifies.

“He was like as long as God goes with him, he is straight. Here it is, people were watching this young shepherd boy, going against a giant with just a sling shot. But he went and he did it, how was that even possible if God wasn’t with him? With faith, any and everything is possible,” said Xena.

Barbara, a Catholic believer said she was a very little girl when this scripture was taught to her, but it never left her. She said it may sound kind of cliché now, because everywhere you go, you may see it or you may hear it, but this is a good thing.

“God wants us to spread his message, whether they are overused or not, as long as people know it. People don’t know how powerful this scripture is. A lot of people in the world stay doubting themselves and believing that they are not capable of certain things, but the sky is definitely the limit. And the truth is, you can do anything through Christ that strengthens you,” said Barbara.

Simone, an Anglican said: “To me, it means that no matter what the challenge is, if you take it from an attitude of faith and pray about it as you’re doing it, then you should have success.

“People say this a lot but you have to put God first in everything you do and I promise you will never go astray.”

Simone said she’s not a saint but she can tell anyone that her faith is strong as a mountain top and God is always with her because she prays and asks him to stay with her always, for guidance, protection, wisdom, love and security.

When the going gets tough and the tough gets going, Melissa, a Baptist follower, said this scripture breathes new life.

“When I say that, I mean sometimes certain things may be difficult and when I remember that nothing is impossible to God, I get a renewed sense of hope and encouragement. That scripture can be applied to any and every part of a person’s daily life. Whether if it is your job, a relationship or your career, it doesn’t matter,” she said.