the success of desire
reading from the playbook› Hebrews 12:1-3
I’m inspired every time I recall the story of a remarkable female athlete named Wendy Stoker. In high school, she diligently practiced for four years to improve her skills as a diver. As a senior, she placed third in the Iowa girls state diving championship.
Wendy went on to attend the University of Florida, where she continued her hard work. While carrying a full load of classes, she earned the No. 2 position on the varsity diving squad. Her hard work was recognized in 2002 when she was inducted into the Iowa High School Swim Coaches Association Hall of Fame.
Perhaps the most amazing thing about Wendy Stoker, however, was her typing skills. She pounded out 45 words a minute on her typewriter—with her toes.
You see, Wendy Stoker was born without arms.
Wendy’s physical limitations could have held her back, but they didn’t. Why? Because she possessed a main component to success—desire. Absolutely nothing of human greatness is achieved without it. With desire, we can succeed despite overwhelming limitations. Without it, we limit ourselves even though we may possess great capabilities.
Although most of us will never know the challenges Wendy Stoker faces each day, we all have our limitations, real or perceived. Our limitations can tempt us to give up desire. But when we lose desire, we lose heart. That is one reason why the Bible encourages us to keep our eyes on Jesus so that we don’t become weary and give up (Hebrews 12:2-3).
Desire is the secret to success. Knowing Jesus is the secret to desire. —Jeff Olson
executing the game plan›
• Identify where you are tempted to give up desire because your limitations seem too great.
• Ask God for help in pressing forward.
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i desire to do more.