God's Coaching #201

God's Coaching #201

Wilma Rudolph was the 20th of 22 children. Born prematurely, she weighed just four-and-a-half pounds. Before she turned five, she had battled through measles, mumps, chicken pox, scarlet fever, polio, and double pneumonia. Most of her childhood was spent in bed. Doctors told her she’d never walk normally. At age six, Wilma was fitted with a leg brace so she could get around a little better.

But less than 14 years later, Wilma would do more than “get around.” At the 1960 Summer Olympics in Rome, Italy, Wilma won three gold medals and became the “fastest woman in the world.” She won the 100-meter and 200-meter sprints, and she anchored the 400-meter-relay team to a first-place finish. In every event, Wilma set a world record with her time!

What’s the Score?

Wilma had a difficult time growing up. She just wanted to play and run with the other kids, but all her illnesses kept her stuck inside. When she was diagnosed with polio, doctors put her left leg in a brace. But Wilma didn’t give up on her dream. She rubbed her withered leg as she watched kids play outside. Her brothers and sisters took turns massaging her leg too. Every week, Wilma’s mom took her to the hospital for treatments. By the time Wilma turned 11, her leg was strong enough to walk without the brace. And once the brace was off, she couldn’t be stopped. She became an all-state basketball and track athlete in high school. Then she went on to Olympic glory.

Wilma had a lot of faith that she’d get better, but she also got a lot of help from her family. The Bible says, “A brother is born to help in time of need” (Proverbs 17:17). Wilma had plenty of brothers . . . and plenty of needs! Her brothers and sisters helped her heal, and they were there to play with her and to encourage her. Later in life Wilma said, “When you’re from a large, wonderful family, there’s always a way to achieve your goals.”

On the Ball

Can you think of a time when a brother or a sister has helped you? What could you do to help him or her? This week do something special for your family so they will know that you’ll always be there to help.

Coach’s Comment

A friend is always loyal, and a brother is born to help in time of need. Proverbs 17:17