“Servants, do what you’re told by your earthly masters. And don’t just do the minimum that will get you by. Do your best. Work from the heart for your real Master, for God, confident that you’ll get paid in full when you come into your inheritance. Keep in mind always that the ultimate Master you’re serving is Christ. The sullen servant who does shoddy work will be held responsible. Being a follower of Jesus doesn’t cover up bad work.”
– Colossians 3:22-25 (The Message)

Basketball coaching legend John Wooden once said, “Being average means you’re as close to the bottom as you are to the top.” When we stop and think about those words for a moment, they are profound. How often do we all “settle” for less than our best? Longtime NFL coach Tony Dungy is also a man who dared to be different by demanding excellence from his players and coaches. He chose to put faith and humility at the center of his life and career. Coach Dungy believes that being an excellent coach means doing everything as well as you can do it. From handling players to running practice, Dungy believes it’s all about giving your best for the Lord.

He shares the following insight on excellence in these quotes:

• “What I look at is whether we are doing absolutely everything we can with the talent and opportunity that God gives us.”
• “Keep working, if you come up short, say OK Lord, give me another opportunity.”
• “As followers of Jesus Christ, it’s great to be able to show the world that, yes, we can do it the Lord’s way, but we can be excellent while we do it.”

Our personal challenge is to strive for excellence in all that we do. We must “live out” excellence not only on the field or court, but also in our classrooms, churches, homes and communities. Striving for excellence in our lives is an act of worship to an almighty God who is worthy of our best.

Heavenly Father, You have always given me Your best and I am thankful. Push me today Lord, to give You and those You have placed in my life, my very best. It’s in the name of Jesus I pray. Amen.