What does it mean to be “able”?

Dictionary.com defines “able” in this way:

able

[ey-buh l] /ˈeɪ bəl/  adjective, abler, ablest.

1. having necessary power, skill, resources, or qualifications; qualified:

able to lift a two-hundred-pound weight; able to write music; able to travel widely; able to vote.

2. having unusual or superior intelligence, skill, etc.: an able leader.
3. showing talent, skill, or knowledge: an able speech.
4. legally empowered, qualified, or authorized.

Thesaurus.com lists several other words that are similar in meaning to the word “able”:

able

Synonyms for able

adj capable of performing; having an innate capacity

• adept adequate apt capable competent  easy  good  intelligent  ready  smart  strong
• adroit  agile  alert  bright  cunning  deft  dexterous  effortless endowed  equipped
• facile  fitted knowing  powerful  worthy

As Christians, we will all have times in life where we feel like the word “able” describes us exactly.  In those times it is easy to relate to many of the synonyms found above.  However, we all may experience times in life where the word “able” is the farthest thing from how we feel.  It’s in both the good and bad times be encouraged to find the meaning of “able” in Philippians 4:13, where it is said:

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

Be inspired this week to know that you are “able” when you turn to Jesus and find your strength in him!

Trust that he is more than “able” to guide you through “all” things that may come your way in life!