This past Sabbath we studied the difficult decision Bartimaeus had to make. Would he remain blind, but have guaranteed income as a beggar? Or receive his sight but lose his income? It was a lose-lose situation. Bartimaeus chose to receive his sight! Although his healing would bring new difficulties, for him it was worth it because at least he would see Jesus! (Luke 18:35-42)

Bartimaeus' story brings to mind a famous passage, Philippians 4:13. In context, Paul speaks about how his financial support had plummeted, which caused him much suffering. But through it all, he learned that “in whatever state I am, to be content” (v11). He finishes his thought by saying: “I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.”

But what are these “things” he can do? The context tells us: he is referring to suffering. He is saying, “In all situations, whether they are of need or plenty, I am physically able to get through them because Christ strengthens me.”

We often use this passage to encourage ourselves when we are not content, but this passage is ALL about contentment. It is about learning to be content with whatever we have, in whatever situation we find ourselves. It is about trusting that Christ is enough in our time of need and that He will strengthen us in order to weather the storms (Psalm 46:1).

In his healing, Bartimaeus embodies the true meaning of Philippians 4:13. We do not know what came next, but as we saw last Sabbath, it probably was not easy (“because the healing hurts more than the initial injury”). But we can be sure that with Paul, in his new difficulties, he said “I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.” Although there may be new difficulties in our healing, Christ is with us, strengthening us all the way.

—Pastor Alex