How can we apply the principle of excellence in our service to God? The Pattern of Excellence in Exodus 28:39 “You are also to weave the tunic of fine linen, fashion an embroidered sash, and make the turban of fine linen—the work of a skilled craftsman.” (Exodus 28:39) • God specifies fine materials—“fine linen.” • He requires craftsmanship—“the work of a skilled craftsman.” • The garments are for priestly service; therefore, nothing shoddy or careless will do. Why Excellence Matters to God • Reflects His character: “Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.” (Matthew 5:48) • Honors His name: “Whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus.” (Colossians 3:17) • Protects worship from contempt: “When you present a blind animal for sacrifice, is it not wrong?... Try offering it to your governor!” (Malachi 1:8) Everyday Ways to Pursue Excellence in Service 1. Give God the first and best of your day. – Psalm 5:3: “In the morning, LORD, You hear my voice.” 2. Prepare thoroughly for whatever task you accept. – Proverbs 21:5: “The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance.” 3. Cultivate skill. – 2 Timothy 2:15: “Present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed.” 4. Maintain integrity in unseen details. – Luke 16:10: “Whoever is faithful with very little will also be faithful with much.” 5. Finish well. – Ecclesiastes 7:8: “Better is the end of a matter than its beginning.” Guardrails That Keep Excellence God-Centered • Motive check: “Whatever you do, work at it with your whole being, for the Lord and not for men.” (Colossians 3:23) • Humility: “What do you have that you did not receive?” (1 Corinthians 4:7) • Dependence on grace: “Apart from Me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5) Encouraging Examples • Bezalel and Oholiab—filled with the Spirit for craftsmanship (Exodus 31:1-6). • Daniel—distinguished by an “extraordinary spirit” in secular administration (Daniel 6:3). • Dorcas—excelled in acts of charity and skilled sewing (Acts 9:36-39). Putting It All Together Excellence is not perfectionism or self-promotion. It is wholehearted, skillful, God-honoring service—whether weaving priestly garments, teaching a class, writing a report, or fixing a neighbor’s fence. As we offer our finest to Him, we mirror His splendor, point others to His worth, and hear the commendation, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” |
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