By Pr Isaiah White
The Bible states: So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God (1 Corinthians 10:31).
The context of this verse is Apostle Paul instructing Christians on how to live in a world of indulgence. Corinth was a challenging place for believers, not only because of its culture but also due to its policies. It was a society where immorality was not just tolerated but legally sanctioned. In such an environment, doing the right thing was not enough; the manner in which one did it also mattered.
Paul’s message in this verse is not a set of rigid instructions about dos and don’ts. Instead, it is an invitation to examine the quality and intention behind our actions. The verse urges us to pursue excellence, for true excellence is a demonstration of God’s glory. Many today are preoccupied with success, achievement, and personal gain, yet the concept of an excellent spirit remains foreign. 1 Corinthians 10:31 challenges us: Whatever you do, is it glorious?
Excellence explained
Excellence is not merely about what is done but how and why it is done. An employee with a spirit of excellence is one whose salary has been delayed for months yet continues to deliver quality work as if they were paid yesterday. Excellence is about service rendered for the sake of purpose, not personal benefit.
An excellent spirit is characterised by a heart and mind that strive for righteousness, humility, and diligence in all endeavours. It is not about perfection but about a consistent pursuit of what is right and the motives behind it. Excellence is not measured solely by production but by the purpose that production serves.
Proverbs 22:29 states: “Do you see someone skilled in their work? They will serve before kings; they will not serve before officials of low rank.” This verse highlights the value of excellence, not for personal glory but as a testimony to God’s work in our lives.
Bezalel and Oholiab
Exodus 31 recounts the story of two men whom God appointed,not simply for their skill but for their spirit of excellence.
“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 skill, ability, and knowledge in all kinds of crafts—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 31:2-5).
Bezalel and Oholiab’s craftsmanship in constructing the Tabernacle illustrates the importance of excellence in work. Their meticulous attention to detail and unwavering dedication exemplify excellence in workmanship. These men were not just talented; they were intentional in their craft. Their work had a dual purpose, serving public function and glorifying God. Observers of their craftsmanship did not merely admire them but recognised the divine presence behind their work. This is the essence of excellence: using God-given talents to glorify Him and create beauty.
Virtuous woman
The virtuous woman described in Proverbs 31 embodies the characteristics of excellence, including integrity, honesty, humility, servanthood, diligence, stewardship, justice, and commitment. She is not simply a dutiful wife but a woman of excellence. Her philosophy is not merely about completing tasks and achieving goals; rather, her attitude is rooted in excellence.
Her commitment to fulfilling her responsibilities with integrity and love is not focused on personal accomplishments as the ultimate goal. Instead, she sets a standard for others to emulate. For Christians, excellence is not about outward success or societal recognition but about ethical living and ensuring that all our actions have a missionary purpose. As believers, we do not act merely for our own benefit but to direct the world’s attention towards the glory of God. The spirit of excellence provokes qualitative choices and decisions, inspiring those around us to embrace doing the right things in the right way as a guiding principle.
Finally
Being a person of excellence is not a profession but a calling. True excellence originates from God. While the world may train individuals in diplomacy and skill, only the Holy Spirit can instil in us a spirit of excellence in all that we do. The ethics of excellence are reflected in the fruits of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23).
A life of excellence is not about mere performance but about purpose. It is about living in such a way that, through our actions, the world sees not just our skills but the God who empowers us. This is the true essence of an excellent spirit.
