Small Beginnings

No one would have predicted that Jean François Champollion would accomplish anything significant. Born in the French town of Figeac in 1790, he did not come from a distinguished family and demonstrated no significant gifts as a student. Growing up far from the centers of education, he didn’t seem to have the important connections thought to be necessary to be a successful scholar.

Yet, improbably, he developed a passion for ancient languages.

Author Daniel Meyerson has commented that nothing could have been “more far-fetched.” Who could have imagined that “a young boy living in a small French town would conceive a passion such as the one which consumed Jean François?”

But these interests uniquely inspired and prepared him to tackle one of the world’s great mysteries: the meaning of the ancient Egyptian hieroglyphs. These symbols, which appeared on the pyramids and other documents, had baffled the world’s greatest scholars. Yet, in spite of his somewhat questionable academic background, it was Champollion who solved this puzzle. Fueled by his unprecedented insights, he seemed to feel by instinct what the ancient Egyptian writers were saying.

In spite of his “small beginning,” he accomplished things that seemed impossible.

Many people approach their lives with doubt and skepticism. They may read God’s Word, but somehow feel that His promises don’t apply to them. They place limits on God, and what He can do through them.

But the Bible reminds us of the power of faith. While doubt can be crippling (Mark 11:23), “anything is possible if a person believes” (Mark 9:23). Anything! But we must believe in God, and have faith “that he rewards those who sincerely seek Him” (Hebrews 11:6).

In your life, don’t limit God, or limit what He can do through you. And don’t be controlled by doubt. Believe His Word. Trust Him. Confess His promises. Be ready to step out in faith.