A lesson in "heart" is my little 10-year-old daughter, Sarah, who was born with a muscle missing in her foot and wears a brace all the time. She came home one spring day to tell me she had competed in a "field day" that's where they have lots of races and other competitive events.

Because of her leg support, my mind raced as I tried to think of some encouragement for my Sarah, things I could say to her about not letting this get her down - but before I could get a word out, she said, "Daddy, I won two of the races!" I couldn't believe it! And then Sarah said, "I had an advantage."

Ahh. I knew it. I thought she must have been given a head start . . . some kind of physical advantage. But again, before I could say anything, she said, "Daddy, I didn't get a head start . . . my advantage was I had to try harder!" That's heart! That's my Sarah.

Stan Frager (www.frager.com)

Take Advantage of your Disadvantage.

I love that story. Sometimes, some of us, have to try harder. That is okay, if you understand, that trying harder is an advantage. You see, most people don't try at all and a few try half hardily but the people who win at life, are the ones who take advantage of their disadvantages.

Do you have some disadvantage? Has somebody told you that you can't do it? Has someone tried to discourage you by telling you that you are too old, too young, not smart enough, you don't have the right education or some other reason why you can't do it. Well, God says you can do it. All you have to do is read Philippians 4:13. God says, "You can do all things through Christ Jesus who strengthens you."

So take advantage of your disadvantage and try a little harder and watch for the looks of surprise.. When it is all said and done and you have succeeded!!