How can we apply the principle of excellence in our service to God? A Snapshot of Excellence in Exodus 36:19 “ They made for the tent a covering of ram skins dyed red, and over that a covering of fine leather.” The tabernacle craftsmen did not settle for something ordinary. God had specified premium materials, and the people responded with their very best—dyed ram skins and fine leather. Excellence was woven into every stitch because the work was for Him. Why Does God Care About Quality? • His nature is perfect; whatever reflects Him should bear marks of that perfection (Psalm 18:30). • Excellence signals reverence—treating holy assignments as holy (Malachi 1:6-8). • Quality ministry becomes a testimony to the watching world (Matthew 5:16). Foundations for an Excellent Spirit 1. Clear Calling • God’s instructions guided the artisans (Exodus 36:1). • We listen first, then labor (John 10:27). 2. Spirit-Empowered Skill • “He has filled them with skill to perform every work…” (Exodus 35:35). • Seek and sharpen gifts entrusted by the Spirit (1 Peter 4:10-11). 3. Wholehearted Motivation • “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord” (Colossians 3:23). • Excellence flows from devotion, not mere duty. Practical Ways to Pursue Excellence Today • Prepare Thoroughly – Whether teaching a class, leading worship, or setting up chairs, plan ahead and refine details. – Proverbs 21:5: “The plans of the diligent bring profit.” • Elevate Craftsmanship – Musicians tune and rehearse; teachers research; ushers arrive early. – Proverbs 22:29: excellence opens doors for greater influence. • Maintain Integrity – Quality includes moral purity: no shortcuts, no hidden flaws (Psalm 101:2). – 2 Corinthians 8:21: “We take pains to do what is right…not only before the Lord but also before men.” • Cultivate Continuous Improvement – Evaluate and invite feedback after every ministry effort. – Philippians 3:13-14: press on toward the upward call. • Steward Resources Wisely – Use the best you have within means, avoiding waste. – Luke 16:10: faithfulness in little leads to trust with much. Guardrails Against Perfectionism • Excellence seeks God’s glory; perfectionism seeks human approval (Galatians 1:10). • Excellence celebrates progress; perfectionism paralyzes through fear of flaws. • Excellence relies on grace; perfectionism relies on self. The Ultimate Model of Excellence Jesus completed every task perfectly—carpentry in Nazareth, teaching crowds, redeeming at the cross (John 17:4). By His Spirit, we mirror that same diligent love in our service. Takeaway Exodus 36:19 reminds us that God’s work deserves our finest. Offer Him your best materials—time, talent, attitude—and let excellence become worship in action. |
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