“And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men.” – Colossians 3:23 (NKJV)
Picture yourself preparing jollof rice for a grand celebration. You wouldn’t skimp on the ingredients or rush the process; you’d pour your heart into making it flavorful and unforgettable. Similarly, as believers, we’re called to infuse excellence and purpose into every task, becoming the “salt of the earth” (Matthew 5:13) by enriching our world with our best efforts.
In Exodus 31, we meet Bezalel, a man filled with the Spirit of God, blessed with wisdom, understanding, knowledge, and craftsmanship. His work on the Tabernacle wasn’t merely a job—it was a divine assignment, and his craftsmanship reflected God’s glory. Just as the Holy Spirit guided Bezalel to create something extraordinary, we are also called to excel in our endeavours, making our work a testament to God’s excellence.
Excellence isn’t about perfectionism; it’s about aligning our efforts with God’s heart. When we approach our work, studies, or ministry with the mindset that we’re serving the Lord, it changes our perspective. It means striving to exceed expectations, not for accolades, but to honour God who sees our efforts (Matthew 6:4). Like a master chef perfecting each dish, we should be meticulous, ensuring our contributions are of the highest quality.
Paul instructs us in Philippians 4:8: “Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” Excellence begins in our minds, with a commitment to uphold godly standards in all we do.
Another powerful example of excellence is Daniel. The Bible describes him as a man with an excellent spirit, demonstrating competence in various areas. His excellence made him relevant and highly esteemed, leading to his appointment as a ruler by the king (Daniel 6:3).
In our everyday lives—whether at work, home, or church—we are called to be like Bezalel, using our unique gifts to serve with distinction. It’s not about being the best but about doing our best, driven by a desire to glorify God. Just as salt enhances the flavour of food, our excellence should enhance the world around us, leaving a lasting impact.
As you go about your daily tasks, remember that your work is a form of worship. Be diligent, be creative, and let your efforts shine brightly, pointing others to the God who empowers you.
Let your excellence reflect the One who called you, making His name known through every act of love and service.
Bible Reading Plan: 1 Thessalonians 1-2