It is shocking to hear some Christians say excellence is only at work, church or elsewhere. In sincerity, we ought to be outstanding in all areas of life - including the Church of God.
Here are few of the many reasons why excellence is a priority in the Church 1. Excellence in our lifestyle brings glory to God Matthew 5:16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. 2. Excellence strengthens the saints in the church Our collective excellent efforts in the Church edifies and strengthen all. It creates an atmosphere of synergy and progress to the body of Christ. 1 Corinthians 14:12 reads And the same is true for you. Since you are so eager to have the special abilities the Spirit gives, seek those that will strengthen the whole church. 3. Excellence is commendable and reward-able Naturally, every act of excellence is commendable and brings rewards. However, the reward could be at church, place of work or even somewhere somehow unexpected. So, be determined to be excellent at all times. Matthew 25:23 "His master replied, 'Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master's happiness!' Case study: Jesus
What will Jesus do? Jesus would be excellent in thought, in speech and in deeds.
It’s no more news that our Lord Jesus is excellent - He lived blameless with exemplary lifestyle. Likewise, we are to follow Jesus not only in words but also in deeds and thoughts. Highlighted below are some exemplary characteristics of our Lord Jesus Christ. ❖ The Head of the church: ‘fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God’(Hebrews 12:2) ❖ Exhibited excellence in His ministry: ’He reflects the brightness of God’s glory and is the exact representation of God’s own being’ (Hebrews 1:3) ❖ Fuelled by passion: ’Zeal for your house consumes me, the insults of those who insult you have fallen on me’ (Psalm 69:9) ❖ Interested in godly things (Luke 2:39-52) One other important thing about excellence is desire and preparation. Interested in godly things? Pursue it diligently. Don’t wait for a specific time to show that you are excellent. Remember that excellence is a spirit and a lifestyle. ❖Empowered by the Holy Spirit (Luke 3:21-23) ❖Resisted the temptations of Satan i.e. do what thou wilt, do not push the boundaries of God’s grace, do not go to the devil to get power (Luke 4:1-13) Nowadays, so many people sell their soul to the devil in search for power, fame or money. They erroneously seek power from the devil to be ‘powerful ‘ in life. Unfortunately, such a status is far from excellence because a true-excellence, power and success comes from God. ❖ Jesus focused on his assignment (John 12:27) Be and stay focused in life! Be like Jesus Christ - be excellent in thought, in speech and in deeds. Steps to excellence
❖Be keen on personal prayer (Luke 5:16). Prayer is requires you tarry in the presence of God more by yourself. Spend quality time with God.
❖Keen on fixing and working with broken people (1 John 3:8). ❖Have a mentor, followers, confidants (Luke 6:12-16) ❖Allow critics, but not enemies. (Matthew 12:14) ❖Do not be a hypocrite - working to satisfy others instead of God. (John 7:24) ❖Pay your taxes - fill your hands with good work. Find a job or business to do and God will bless it. (Matthew 17:24-27; 22:15-22) ❖Be aware of human psychology, yet still act wisely (John 2:24) Excellence In The Church: In Thought
❖Believe the best, stop grumbling & pray instead (1 Corinthians 13, Philippians 4:8)
❖Avoid envy and discord (Ephesians 4:26-27) ❖Patiently marry the will of God. (1 Corinthians 7) ❖Don’t worry like the heathen (Matthew 6:33) ❖Remove corruptions (Matthew 18:9, Romans 12:1-2) Excellence In The Church: In Word
❖Don’t be quick to speak, swear or vow (Matthew 5:34)
❖Speak life & edify others and rebuke in love (Colossians 3:16, 1 Timothy 5) ❖Promote the Christian faith (Peter 3:15-16) ❖Avoid coarse joking (James 3:9-10, Ephesians 5:4) Excellence In The Church: In Deed
❖DO SOMETHING. An idle hand is a devil's workshop. (John 12:26)
❖Do it for Jesus (Ecclesiastes 9:10, Colossians 3:23) ❖Work and walk with the leaders (Hebrews 13:17) ❖Exhibit responsible freedom (1 Corinthians 8:7-10) Conclusion
❖Ask yourself ‘what would Jesus do?’ (and do it with the help of Holy Spirit)
❖Check your thought life ❖Check your speech ❖Check your actions God bless you! |
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