God's Coaching #142

God's Coaching #142

Jordan Romero was on top of the world—literally—on this day in 2010. And the 13-year-old became the youngest climber to scale Mount Everest, the world’s highest mountain at 29,035 feet above sea level. At the top, he hugged his dad and stepmom, cried, and said, “I love you.” Then he called his mom on a satellite phone.

The Everest expedition was another step toward Jordan’s ultimate goal to climb the Seven Summits, the highest peaks on all seven continents. But many people criticized his Everest climb. They said he was too young. They said Everest was too dangerous for a 13-year-old. They blamed his father. But Jordan’s parents insisted that the inspiration and motivation were all Jordan’s. They were simply helping him fulfill his dreams. Other people defended Jordan’s actions. They praised his vision and dedication. Everyone was glad Jordan stayed safe on Everest. His accomplishment was inspiring. It was hard for anyone to argue against that.

What’s the Score?

Jordan wasn’t the first young person to be looked down on because of his youth. In the Bible, Paul encouraged Timothy to be an example to all believers in his life, love, faith, and purity (1 Timothy 4:12). Even though Timothy was young, he could still be a leader.

It’s not an easy challenge to lead at a young age. But the good news is that God doesn’t consider youth to be a limitation. His promises of protection and guidance don’t have any minimum age requirement. When you’re feeling too young or inexperienced on life’s mountains, be encouraged by the words of 2 Samuel 22:34: “He makes me as surefooted as a deer, enabling me to stand on mountain heights.” Trust that God is always walking next to you, and keep climbing.

On the Ball

What’s your dream? What do you feel God is calling you to do? Take one step today toward fulfilling that dream. Write it on a rock, and put it in a visible place. Mark and add a new rock for each step you take. Watch your mountain take shape as you pursue your dream.

Coach’s Comment

He makes me as surefooted as a deer, enabling me to stand on mountain heights. 2 Samuel 22:34