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11 Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. 12 I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. 13 I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.

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11 I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content in any circumstance. 12 I have experienced times of need and times of abundance. In any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of contentment,[a] whether I go satisfied or hungry, have plenty or nothing. 13 I am able to do all things[b] through the one[c] who strengthens me.

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Footnotes

  1. Philippians 4:12 tn The words “of contentment” are not in the Greek text, but are implied by Paul’s remarks at the end of v. 11.
  2. Philippians 4:13 tn The Greek word translated “all things” is in emphatic position at the beginning of the Greek sentence.
  3. Philippians 4:13 tc Although some excellent witnesses lack explicit reference to the one strengthening Paul (so א* A B D* I 33 1739 lat co Cl), the majority of witnesses (א2 D2 [F G] Ψ 075 1175 1241 1505 1881 2464 M al sy Hier) add Χριστῷ (Christō) here (thus, “through Christ who strengthens me”). But this kind of reading is patently secondary, and is a predictable variant. Further, the shorter reading is much harder, for it leaves the agent unspecified.