WEEKLY DEVOTIONAL, 25TH SEPTEMBER - "EXCELLENCE"

EXCELLENCE

Excellence is defined as the quality of being outstanding or superb. Excellence, however, is a virtue that is dying in our society due to the allure of quick and easy gains. There is a shortcut available for achieving every goal, from good exam results to getting a good job. The question is, is excellence important to God? Why is it important for us as Christians to do our very best in everything we do? The Bible has several verses that talk about this. Let's have a look at them.

Romans 12:6 "In his grace, God has given us different gifts for doing certain things well."(NLT)

God has given us the ability to do things well. We have no excuse.

Ecclesiastes 9:10 "Whatever you do, do well.For when you go to the grave, there will be no work or planning or knowledge or wisdom." (NLT)

God expects us to do our best while here on earth, making use of all the abilities we have. Once we die, that will be it. Note that he will hold us accountable for the opportunities he gave us that we didn't utilize fully.

Galatians 6:9 "So let's not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don't give up." (NLT)

Doing the right thing always pays off. The results and rewards will come at the perfect time.

Colossians 3:23-24 "Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people. Remember that the Lord will give you an inheritance as your reward and that the Master you are serving is Christ." (NLT)

You may have an earthly employer, but your ultimate boss is Christ. He is the one who gave you that job. Work hard and work willingly, as though you are working for Christ. Even if you have an employer who is not nice, focus on pleasing God, and you will receive favor with everyone else.

As you start the week, remember that whatever task God has given you to do must be done well. Our goal should be to please our Father in whatever we do. God is pleased when we do our work well because it brings glory to Him. The verse below gives us a hint of the reward for an excellent worker.

Proverbs 22:29 "Do you see any truly competent workers? They will serve kings rather than working for ordinary people." (NLT)

Let's all strive to be excellent and competent workers this week, while keeping our focus on the bigger picture. Pleasing God.

Philippians 4:13 "For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength." (NLT)