When I Run, I Feel His Pleasure

In 1924, Scottish sprinter Eric Liddell arrived at the Paris Olympics as the favorite in the 100 meters. But when he learned the heats were scheduled for a Sunday, he withdrew. The press called him a fool. His own teammates pressured him to compromise. An entire nation questioned his judgment.

Liddell didn't waver. He switched to the 400 meters — a race he'd barely trained for — and stunned the world by winning gold and setting a new Olympic record.

Years later, a friend asked him why he gave up a near-certain gold in his best event. Liddell's answer has echoed through the decades: "I believe God made me for a purpose, but He also made me fast. And when I run, I feel His pleasure."

Notice what Liddell understood that so many of us miss. Purpose isn't just about what you do — it's about who you do it for. He could run. He loved to run. But running was never the point. The point was the One who gave him legs.

The Almighty has wired each of us with gifts, passions, and abilities. But those gifts only find their true weight when they're aimed back toward the Giver. A talent exercised apart from God's purpose is just motion. A talent surrendered to Him becomes ministry.

What has God made you fast at? And are you running for the medal — or for His pleasure?