Eric Liddell Quotes

Powerful Eric Liddell for Daily Growth

About Eric Liddell

Eric Liddell (January 16, 1902 – February 21, 1943), a Scottish athlete and missionary, was born in Tientsin, China to Scottish Christian parents. Known as 'The Flying Scotsman of the 1924 Olympics,' Liddell's life story is one of faith, resilience, and athletic prowess. Raised in a Presbyterian missionary family, Liddell attended Edinburgh Academy before returning to China at age nine. There, he excelled in sports, particularly in sprinting, and was inspired by his elder brother Robert, an athlete himself. In 1923, Liddell set a Scottish half-mile record. Liddell's Olympic journey began in 1924 when he qualified for the British team. However, the 100-meter final was held on a Sunday, which conflicted with his Sabbath observance. Despite pressure to participate, Liddell refused and instead raced in the 400-meter event, where he won gold. Post-Olympics, Liddell returned to China as a missionary, working at his family's mission station until World War II. He married Ruth Livingston in 1925 and together they had three children. During the war, interned in Weihsien Internment Camp, Liddell continued his work as a teacher and coach, organizing sports and games to boost morale. Liddell's life was immortalized in the film 'Chariots of Fire.' His quotes reflect his deep faith: "I believe God made me for a purpose, but he also made me fast, and when I run, I feel his pleasure." Liddell passed away from a brain tumor in 1943. His legacy continues to inspire athletes and Christians worldwide.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"I believe God made me for a purpose, but he also made me fast! And when I run, I feel His pleasure."

This quote by Eric Liddell expresses a deep connection between his athletic prowess and his faith. He sees running as a gift from God, an expression of divine pleasure, and a fulfillment of the purpose for which he was created. It suggests that for him, sports and spirituality are intertwined; each step he takes in competition is not just about personal achievement, but also about feeling the joy and satisfaction of living up to his divine design and experiencing God's approval.


"The starting point of all achievements is desire."

This quote emphasizes that every significant accomplishment stems from a strong, innate desire to achieve something. It signifies that the first essential step towards achieving one's goals is to genuinely wish for success and be passionately committed to it. In other words, having a deep-seated desire serves as the foundation upon which achievements are built.


"When I run, I feel His pleasure."

This quote by Eric Liddell suggests that for him, running is not just a physical activity, but a spiritual experience that brings him closer to God. When he runs, he feels a sense of divine approval, joy, or contentment from his higher power. In essence, Liddell finds a deep sense of fulfillment and connection with the divine while engaging in the act of running.


"God never said the journey would be easy, but He did say the reward would be worth it."

This quote by Eric Liddell underscores the idea that life's challenges are inevitable, yet the promise of a valuable outcome makes the struggle worthwhile. It encourages perseverance, resilience, and faith in facing hardships, as the ultimate reward - whether it be personal growth, achievement, or spiritual fulfillment - will outweigh the difficulties experienced along the way.


"If we claim to be Christians, let us live like it."

This quote by Eric Liddell emphasizes the importance of putting faith into action. If one identifies as a Christian, they should strive to embody the teachings and values of Christianity in their daily life. It's not enough to simply claim the title; true faith requires demonstrating love, compassion, integrity, and all the virtues taught by Christ through our words and actions. Living like a Christian means living a life that is guided by these principles, reflecting the essence of one's belief system in how they interact with others and approach the world around them.


God made me fast. And when I run, I feel His pleasure.

- Eric Liddell

Sports, Fast, His, I Feel

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