But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal.
—Matt. 6:20 KJV
Eugene Lang, a New York City philanthropist, once made a graduation speech to a sixth-grade class at Public School 121. The students there had no hope of ever going to college—indeed, they had very little hope of even graduating from high school.
At the end of his speech Lang gave them a challenge, “For any of you who graduate from high school, I will ensure that funds are available for you to go to college.”
On average, only 56 percent of inner-city students graduate from high school. Of the 48 students who heard Lang that day, 44 (92 percent) graduated from high school and 42 went on to college.
It wasn’t simply the offer of money that ensured these incredible results. Lang also made sure that his students were closely monitored and counseled throughout their last six years of school. Still, that one challenging goal gave these students an opportunity to dream about a future they never thought possible.
Lang chose to share his wealth for the benefit of others rather than storing it up for himself. What is your motivation for becoming a winner? Set a goal that counts!
Excerpt permission granted by Honor Books, Inc.
Van Crouch is widely regarded as one of the best and more versatile speakers in America. As the founder and president of Van Crouch Communications, Van challenges individuals to achieve excellence in their lives. After ranking as a consistent sales leader with the American Express Company, Van went on to receive many awards for outstanding performance in the insurance industry and has been a qualifying member of the Million Dollar Round Table.
Van is the author of several bestselling books including Stay in the Game, Dare to Succeed, Take It Back, Winning 101, The C.E.O's Little Instruction Book and Storehouse Principle. Van is in demand for his thought-provoking seminars and keynote engagements to Fortune 500 companies, government organizations, professional and collegiate sports teams, churches and para-church organizations, and management and sales conventions worldwide.
When Van is at home he can be found at his home church, Living Word Christian Center, pastored by the internationally-known Dr. Bill Winston. Van is an active member of Dr. Winston's organization, Faith Ministries Alliance, where he participates regularly in training and encouraging other leaders.
Van Crouch has the ability to motivate people to raise their level of expectation. He will cause your attitude to become more positive, your problems smaller, your self-esteem and confidence will grow, and your self doubts disintegrate. He is sure to both inspire and challenge you. Van and his wife, Doni, reside in Wheaton, Illinois.