God has always used “Door Openers.” Whether it was a man named Torrey Johnson who opened the door of Youth For Christ to a young evangelist named Billy Graham, or whether it was it was Anne Sullivan opening doors for Hellen Keller. Any one who ever reaches a higher level in life has done so because someone else has opened a door of opportunity.All champions can attest to it. It may be a parent, a coach, an institutional leader, a newspaper columnist, promoter or publisher. One or all of them were instrumental in the success and prominence of a person. However, with this in mind, I want to state something that may not be widely known or understood by some. That is, those who are door openers often have a sense that by giving opportunities to others, they in turn find doors unlocked for themselves. That’s the key.Even in Jesus’ parable of the businessman who traveled to a far country and gave talents (money) to his servants. He empowered them to make investments based on their track records.[i] Not only did he open doors for them to move about in the business community, he was expanding his own business interests. Two things happened at the same time.So often our thinking is one dimensional. How can I best move forward? We fail to realize that by enabling someone else to make progress, we move ahead ourselves. Further, consider what would happen if we were capable of helping open doors for many people, how much further we would go? This will enable us to both directly and indirectly serve more people. Imagine the return! All it would take is a little push.Harry Houdini has become legend in the world of magic. He was a master magician and remarkable locksmith. He was proud of his claim that he could escape from any jail cell dressed simply in his street clothes.A small town in England built a new jail of which they boasted. They issued the great Houdini a challenge: “Come give us a try.” Houdini loved the public attention it would command as well as the money he would generate, so he accepted. Excitement was at such high levels even before he arrived. Triumphantly, he strolled into town and walked into the cell.As usual, confidence oozed from him as the door closed. Houdini took off his coat and began to work. Hidden in his belt was a flexible, tough, durable ten-inch piece of steel, which he used to work on the lock. After 30 minutes the confident look on his face began to fade. After one hour perspiration dripped from his face and dampened his shirt. After two hours Houdini literally collapsed against the door – which opened. It was never locked – except in his own mind – which meant it was as firmly locked as if a thousand locksmiths had put their best locks on the door.[ii]All he needed was one little push and the door would have swung open. Often, all that is needed is a tiny push and a door will open. The trouble is that few ever even push because the door is already locked in their minds.What tiny push is needed for you to advance someone near you? Remember, by doing so, you make personal progress yourself.Memorable Quote: “Big doors open on small hinges.” Luis PalauRelated Scripture: “And to one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one,…” Matthew 25:15Suggestion for Prayer: Dear God, show me who it is You would direct me to help. Use me as a “Door Opener” for them. Thank you for enabling me to grow as well. Amen.[i] Matthew 25:14-15[ii] Ziglar, p. 193Taken from Danny Yamashiro’s manuscript for his book, Discover the Champion in You.
Daily Inspiration from Athletes, Business Leaders, and More
