I know a writer who signed contracts for 13 books in one year and another who sold 11. Of course, these writers didn’t write all those books in a year. No. With no promise of reward and despite rejection, each of them trudged through years of effort to produce one manuscript after another. As a result, the reward for their diligence arrived in multiples.

Whether you aspire to publication or not, the principle is the same. Most things start small and grow from there. Often the person with a vision receives no support and little understanding. When we place our faith in the approval of others, we will fall when they fail us. Have faith, instead, in what you have been called to do, and in the One who called you. Whatever mountain you face and even when it seems impossible, don’t give up. Remember, if you don’t believe in yourself, no one else will either.

What does it take to succeed? The right kind of faith.