If anything is Excellent

In line with our journey so far, we have been looking at transformation in the area of the mind along the lines of Philippians 4:8. In this article, we will be looking at “Excellence” – a trait that must govern our mindset and thinking. We will be learning some lessons from the story of Daniel.

We see that Daniel was one with an excellent spirit (cf. Daniel 6:3). This was evident to everyone including the king who thought to exalt him above all others. Before we go on, we must understand that the word translated as “excellent” from the Hebrew “yat·tî·rā” means “preeminent” or “surpassing” and in Philippians 4:8, the word translated as “excellent” – “aretē” means for something to be done properly. We therefore begin to see that for Daniel to be regarded in his dealings as excellent, he must have had a mindset governed by excellence. In other words, excellence cultured his ability which was fleshed out in his exhibits, ideas and exploits. Well, how do we know? A few things to see

First, The Spirit of God dwelt in Him (cf. Daniel 5:12) and second, Proverbs 23:7 (kjv) says as a man thinketh, so is he.

Now, we see that the spirit that dwells in you has the ability to influence or shape your actions/inactions hence the need for the Holy Spirit for the believer in Christ (cf. Romans 8:9). Excellence therefore is revealed through works, done with a mindset governed by the ability to surpass expectations above and beyond. But then, are there benefits of having a mindset governed by the element of excellence? Most certainly.

Referring back to Daniel 6:3, we see a few things. First, Excellence distinguishes you among peers in whatever community you find yourself. To be distinguished means to stand out. This doesn’t rule out competency but is an advantage to your competency and goes a long way to enhance the favour you may be enjoying. Secondly, Excellence makes you preferred by kings. To be preferred by kings means in spite of many others at that high level of competency, you become the chosen candidate by decision-makers or people who have the capacity to largely influence policy in a given context. This also enhances favour.

Being excellent takes courage, determination and tenacity to be the best in your respective field according to the standard that is already in existence. Excellence first starts as a mindset which then translates into victory in practical settings.

How? Keep learning and practicing your craft while abiding with principles that enhance growth and capacity. It is important to know that one of the principles for the believer in Christ is a vibrant prayer and word-study life. Yes, we don’t rule out humility, willingness to keep learning till and after attaining mastery, hard work, discipline and diligence as they feed into these principles (i.e. they serve as the “how to navigate” these principles). It all starts from the mindset.

Granted, there may be many ways to achieve excellence but the only way that has a guaranteed end in your favour with eternal implications is through the person of Jesus Christ. It all starts with your relationship with Him which then transcends towards fellowship, where excellence can be cultivated.

If you don’t have a relationship with Him and you want to receive Jesus as your Lord and personal Saviour, pray with all meaning in your heart, saying, “Lord Jesus, I am grateful that I can come to you and acknowledge you as my Lord and personal Saviour from this moment on. I renounce and part ways with the systems of the world, self and Satan. I accept you as Lord and Master over my life. Take absolute control over and be enthroned in my heart, dear Lord Jesus. And fill me with your Holy Spirit even now. I declare from this very moment that I am a child of God through Jesus Christ my Lord. Thank you, Jesus, for saving me. Amen.”

The blessing of the Lord rest, abide and keep you. Shalom.