Running with God: A True Inspirational Story of Eric Liddell
Running for God’s Glory: Eric Liddell was a man who loved God with all his heart. Born in 1902 in China to Scottish missionary parents, Eric was a gifted athlete from a young age. He had a passion for running and a deep commitment to his Christian faith. These two loves would one day put him in a situation where he had to make a difficult choice—one that would inspire millions.
The Path to the Olympics
Eric’s speed and talent as a runner didn’t go unnoticed. He quickly became known as one of Scotland’s fastest runners, breaking records and winning races. His dream was to represent Great Britain in the 1924 Paris Olympics. For Eric, running wasn’t just about winning medals; it was about glorifying God. He once said, “I believe that God made me for a purpose, but He also made me fast. And when I run, I feel His pleasure.”
But as Eric trained for the Olympics, he faced a challenge that tested his faith. He discovered that the heats for his best event, the 100 meters, were scheduled on a Sunday. For Eric, Sunday was a day of worship and rest, a day he believed should be dedicated to God. Running on Sunday would go against everything he stood for.
A Difficult Decision
Eric had to make a choice. He could either run the race on Sunday, potentially win a gold medal, and bring glory to his country—or he could honor his commitment to God and refuse to run. It was a tough decision, but Eric knew what he had to do. He decided to withdraw from the 100 meters, even though it was his best event and everyone expected him to win.
Many people were shocked and disappointed. Some couldn’t understand why Eric would give up his chance at Olympic glory. But Eric trusted that God had a plan for him, and he believed that honoring God was more important than winning any race.
A New Challenge
Instead of the 100 meters, Eric decided to compete in the 400 meters, a race that was not his specialty. The 400 meters required different skills and a different kind of endurance. Many doubted that Eric could win, but Eric had faith that God would be with him every step of the way.
On the day of the race, Eric did something that showed where his true strength came from. Just before he stepped onto the track, someone handed him a piece of paper with a Bible verse written on it: “He that honors me, I will honor” (1 Samuel 2:30). Eric took those words to heart and prayed, asking God to help him run for His glory.
Image Source: Vecteezy
The Race of Faith
When the race began, Eric sprinted with everything he had. He didn’t hold back. He ran as if God was running beside him, and in a way, He was. With every step, Eric felt God’s presence and strength. The crowd watched in amazement as Eric ran faster and faster, leaving his competitors behind.
Eric crossed the finish line first, winning the gold medal in a race many thought he couldn’t win. But to Eric, the real victory wasn’t the medal—it was the chance to honor God with his life. He had proven that when you put God first, He will give you the strength to overcome any obstacle.
A Life of Faith
Eric Liddell’s story didn’t end with the Olympics. After his victory, he returned to China as a missionary, serving the people there with the same dedication and love he had shown on the track. Even during World War II, when he was imprisoned in a Japanese internment camp, Eric continued to live out his faith, helping others and spreading God’s love until his death in 1945.
Eric Liddell’s life is a powerful reminder that when we trust God and seek His help, He will guide us, even when the path is difficult. Eric’s story teaches us that true success isn’t measured by medals or fame but by our faithfulness to God. When we run the race of life with God’s strength, we can achieve far more than we ever imagined.
Words from Alive & Free Ministries
At Alive & Free Ministries, we are inspired by the unwavering faith of Eric Liddell. His story is a shining example of what it means to truly live for God’s glory, even when it requires sacrifice. Eric’s decision to honor God above all else reminds us that our relationship with Him should be the foundation of everything we do.
Just as Eric ran his race with God’s strength, we encourage you to run the race of life with faith, courage, and a heart fully devoted to the Lord. When we put God first, we are empowered to overcome any challenge, and our lives become a testimony of His grace and power. May Eric Liddell’s legacy inspire you to seek God’s guidance in all things and to live a life that honors Him.
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