I Can Do All Things

The word mindset is defined as, “the established set of attitudes held by someone.” As people, in general, and as followers of Jesus, in particular, our mindset is of paramount importance. Attitude governs actions. Belief governs behavior. Our deep seated thoughts influence how we live, and move, and have our being. It is for this reason that I am drawn to the words attributed to the industrialist Henry Ford, “Whether you think you can, or you think you can't--you're right.” What Ford was saying is that mindset determines outcome, even before embarking on the task. If you think you can do something, success will come. If you think you cannot, you will falter and fail. 

This was illustrated beautifully in the life of the Apostle Paul.  In the letter to the Philippians, Paul wrote the following, “I know what it is to have little, and I know what it is to have plenty. In any and all circumstances I have learned the secret of being well-fed and of going hungry, of having plenty and of being in need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me.” Paul wasn’t writing about launching a ministry, starting a degree program, or buying a house, he was writing about survival. The Philippians were a caring congregation, generously supporting his ministry. Paul was expressing gratitude for their gifts. In his gratitude, Paul makes it clear that he has learned to live lavishly and he has learned to live when with limited resources. It is in this context that he writes, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” 

Paul reminds us that it is our mindset that determines whether or not we can accomplish a task. And as Henry Ford said, “Whether you think you can or you can’t, you are right. So whatever you are facing, I invite you to remix the mindset of the Little Engine that Could from, “I think I can. I think I can. I think I can.” to “I can do all things through Christ. I can do all things through Christ. I can do all things through Christ.”

Pastor Donna Olivia Owusu-Ansah