Robert Watson Watt said, “The good is the enemy of the excellent.” The idea is that the day we settle for the average is the day we stop reaching for the best. Excellence is the goal of a quality lifestyle. Every sports record is the challenge of an excellent athlete. Every best grade is the challenge of an excellent student. Every best fiscal report is the challenge of an excellent corporate executive.
So, what is God’s standard for excellence? It certainly doesn’t mean that we break the latest record no matter who we step on or what it costs us. Excellence is knowing God’s will and doing our best “His” way.
Philippians 1:9,10
The Apostle Paul said, “And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment, that you may approve things that are excellent.”
Practical Application and Assignments:
The goal is excellence, not perfection. Perfectionists never reach their personal expectations. The goal is always placed beyond their reach because great is never good enough. It’s like dangling the apple beyond the possible reach of the horse’s mouth in an attempt to acquire maximum momentum. The frustration level can make everyone involved miserable in the process.
- Pursue excellence by preparing for excellence. Your pursuit of education and application of knowledge, combined with perseverance will bring out the best in you.
- Set realistic expectations. The “proverbial apple” can only inspire you to move forward if the goal is actually attainable.
- John Maxwell said, “Learn to say no to the average, so you can say yes to the excellent.” Give it your best effort and be content with the results. When you supply the availability, God provides the ability.
“I am convinced and sure of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will continue until the day of Christ’s return, developing (that good work), and perfecting and bringing it to full completion in you.” Philippians 1:6 (AMP)
