“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” — Colossians 3:23 (NIV)
When Joseph was appointed to head Potiphar’s household he served his master with excellence. “So Potiphar left everything he had in Joseph’s care; with Joseph in charge, he did not concern himself with anything except the food he ate” ( Genesis 39:6). Though this trust would cause him being jailed after turning away his masters wife advances, God would reward his excellent service, by elevating him to become the second most important official in ancient Egypt as premier.
Ours is a God of excellence which is clearly seen throughout creation. Whenever one is raised to have a glimpse at the galaxies that form the universe it is all beyond awe. The human body is in itself a complex and yet clock work master piece with all organs and cells working in perfect and harmonious coordination to ensure life. Nothing in all creation is by chance but a mastery layout of precise beauty and order.
Through scripture we see God amplifying himself and honoring excellence. When the Lord tasked the Israelites to build him a Tar-barnacle for worship, “the Lord said to Moses, See I have chosen Bezalel son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah, and I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, with understanding, with knowledge and with all kinds of skills— to make artistic designs for work in gold, silver and bronze, to cut and set stones, to work in wood, and to engage in all kinds of crafts ( Exodus 3: 2-5). God was not expecting mediocrity. Daniel distinguished himself above all the other administrators because “an excellent spirit was in him” (Daniel 6:3).
Excellence is not about perfectionism or impressing people. It is about recognizing God by giving Him our very best. It means doing ordinary tasks with extraordinary faithfulness. Whether we are leading an organization, teaching a class, raising children, running a business, or serving quietly behind the scenes, God deserves our highest standard because we ultimately work for Him.
Today, resolve to reject the spirit of mediocrity. Confess God has given you an excellent spirit as was for Joseph, Bazalel and Daniel. Let your words be excellent, your service excellent, your character excellent, and your stewardship excellent. Remember, excellence is not an event but a habit cultivated through daily obedience. When we pursue excellence for God’s glory rather than our own recognition, He is pleased and often entrusts us with even greater responsibilities.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, You are the God of excellence, and all Your works are perfect. Help me to reflect Your character in everything I do. Remove the spirit mediocrity and settling for just good enough from my life. May I be diligent in every task you present me knowing that excellence brings glory to you and is a testimony of Your greatness. May my life be an inspiration to others because of serving you with excellence. IThis I pray in Jesus’ name!
