WALKING DAILY IN EXCELLENCE
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Philippians 3:12-14
Key Verse: “I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 3:14)
Supporting Texts: Colossians 3:23; 1 Corinthians 9:24-27; Ecclesiastes 9:10; Hebrews 12:1-2
INTRODUCTION:
Excellence is not a one-time act; it is a daily pursuit. Serving God with excellence goes beyond occasional efforts, it requires consistency, intentionality, and discipline in our Christian walk. Every day presents us with opportunities either to reflect God’s glory or to compromise His standard.
The call to walk daily in excellence is the call to live consciously with eternity in view, ensuring that our actions, words, and attitudes align with God’s will. It means pressing forward each day, improving where we failed yesterday, and allowing the Spirit of God to lead us into greater heights of effectiveness and fruitfulness.
This study seeks to equip believers with the understanding and commitment needed to walk daily in excellence so that their lives will become a continuous testimony of God’s glory and power in the world.
1. MAKING EXCELLENCE A DAILY DECISION
Excellence does not happen automatically; it begins with a deliberate choice every day.
a) Daily commitment (Joshua 24:15): Each day requires a renewed choice to serve God wholeheartedly.
b) Seeking God early (Psalm 63:1): Starting each day with God positions you for excellence in all you do.
c) Setting godly priorities (Matthew 6:33): Excellence requires putting God first in every decision.
d) Refusing complacency (Proverbs 4:18): Each day is an opportunity to grow and shine brighter than before.
Biblical Example: Joshua declared, “As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord” (Joshua 24:15), showing daily commitment to excellence in service.
2. MAINTAINING CONSISTENCY IN SPIRITUAL DISCIPLINES
Excellence is sustained by consistency in spiritual practices that keep us aligned with God’s will.
a) Daily prayer (1 Thessalonians 5:17): Constant communion with God sharpens spiritual alertness.
b) Studying God’s Word (Psalm 119:105): The Word guides daily decisions with wisdom and clarity.
c) Fasting and consecration (Isaiah 58:6): Spiritual discipline strengthens character and focus.
d) Fellowship with believers (Hebrews 10:25): Regular fellowship encourages and refines us for excellence.
Biblical Example: Daniel maintained daily consistency in prayer, even in the face of threats, and his life radiated excellence (Daniel 6:10).
3. APPLYING EXCELLENCE IN DAILY LIVING
Excellence should be reflected not only in ministry but also in our daily lifestyle and interactions.
a) Excellence in character (Titus 2:7-8): Integrity, honesty, and uprightness must be evident in our conduct.
b) Excellence in relationships (Romans 12:18): Striving for peace and love shows maturity and godliness.
c) Excellence in work (Ecclesiastes 9:10): Every task should be done diligently as unto the Lord.
d) Excellence in speech (Ephesians 4:29): Words should build, encourage, and bring grace to hearers.
Biblical Example: Joseph walked daily in excellence, whether in Potiphar’s house, in prison, or in Pharaoh’s palace (Genesis 39:2-4, 21-23).
4. PRESSING FORWARD TOWARD PERFECTION
Excellence requires a constant drive for growth and improvement, never settling for less.
a) Forgetting past failures (Philippians 3:13): Yesterday’s mistakes must not hinder today’s pursuit of excellence.
b) Striving for mastery (1 Corinthians 9:25): Discipline leads to distinction in God’s service.
c) Pursuing the heavenly prize (Hebrews 12:1): Running with endurance ensures consistent progress.
d) Relying on the Holy Spirit (John 14:26): Excellence is sustained by the Spirit’s guidance and empowerment.
Biblical Example: Paul pressed daily toward the heavenly calling, refusing to be distracted or stagnant (Philippians 3:12-14).
CONCLUSION:
Walking daily in excellence is a journey of intentional living. It requires deliberate choices, consistent spiritual discipline, application in daily life, and a constant press toward growth in Christ. Excellence is not about perfection but about daily progress in glorifying God through our actions, words, and lifestyle.
Believers must rise above mediocrity, embracing excellence as a lifestyle that glorifies God and impacts lives positively. As we walk daily in excellence, we reflect the image of Christ and position ourselves for eternal rewards.
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, help me to choose daily to walk in excellence.
2. Father, give me grace to maintain consistency in my spiritual disciplines.
3. Lord, strengthen me to overcome complacency and stagnation.
4. Father, let my life reflect integrity and godly character.
5. Lord, help me to excel in my work and responsibilities.
6. Father, baptized me with the Spirit of excellence.
7. Lord, let my speech and actions glorify You daily.
8. Father, keep me pressing toward the heavenly prize without distraction.
9. Lord, help me to walk daily by the leading of the Holy Spirit.
10. Father, let my daily life be a testimony of Your glory.