How can we apply the principle of excellence in our service to God? Solomon’s Gold-Standard Example “Solomon also made all the furnishings in the house of the LORD: the golden altar; the golden table on which was placed the Bread of the Presence” (1 Kings 7:48). • Gold, not bronze, for the altar and table—nothing cheap or careless. • Every piece crafted for the “house of the LORD,” not personal display. • Excellence flowed from a heart convinced God deserved the very best. Foundations for Pursuing Excellence • God’s character is excellent (Psalm 8:1; 145:3). Serving Him mirrors who He is. • “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord” (Colossians 3:23). • “Whatever you do, do it all to the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31). • Skill is commended: “Do you see a man skilled in his work? He will stand before kings” (Proverbs 22:29). • Excellence is wholehearted: “Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might” (Ecclesiastes 9:10). Practical Steps to Serve with Excellence Today 1. Set God-honoring standards • Ask, “Would this please the King?” before setting deadlines, budgets, or quality levels. 2. Prepare thoroughly • Solomon gathered cedar, gold, and skilled artisans (1 Kings 5:17–18). We gather research, tools, and training. 3. Develop skill • Practice, study, rehearse—skill grows through disciplined use (2 Timothy 2:15). 4. Pay attention to details • Little hinges swing big doors; small flaws can distract from God’s glory. 5. Offer your best resources • Time, creativity, finances—excellence costs, yet it is an investment in eternal rewards (Matthew 6:20). 6. Serve with joy • Grudging service tarnishes gold; cheerful obedience shines (Psalm 100:2). 7. Evaluate and refine • After each task, review: What honored God? What needs polishing next time? Heart Checks That Keep Excellence God-Centered • Motive: Am I exalting Christ or my reputation? • Dependency: Am I relying on the Spirit or mere talent? (Zechariah 4:6) • Worship: Is this task an act of praise or a box to tick? • Stewardship: Am I wasting resources or maximizing them for God’s kingdom? Encouragement When Excellence Feels Costly • God sees unseen labor (Hebrews 6:10). • Faithful excellence influences others to honor God (Matthew 5:16). • Eternal perspective fuels perseverance—“your labor in the Lord is not in vain” (1 Corinthians 15:58). |
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