A LIFE OF GRACE AND EXCELLENCE

08/26/2024

"And He is the head of the body, the church, who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in all things He may have the preeminence." (Colossians 1:18)

In today’s scripture, Jesus is identified as the Head of the Church, which is described as “the beginning.” But what is the Church the beginning of? The answer lies in understanding the transformation Jesus brought to humanity.

The Bible tells us that death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over those who hadn’t sinned in the way Adam did. Adam was a type, or a foreshadowing, of Jesus who was to come (Romans 5:14). Death held power because no one could fulfill the law’s demands of justice—until Jesus came. As Acts 13:39 says, “and by Him [Jesus] everyone who believes is justified from all things from which you could not be justified by the law of Moses.”

If you believe in Jesus, you have received life. On the other hand, those who haven’t yet accepted Jesus as Lord remain in a state of spiritual death. They might live normal lives—working, raising families, and even being your neighbors—but without Jesus, they exist in spiritual death. They may not realize their desperate condition, but you do.

The latter part of today’s scripture emphasizes that the Church exists so “…that in all things He [Jesus] may have the preeminence” (Colossians 1:18). This means that in every area of life, the Church should reflect Jesus’ superiority. You are called to excel, whether in your job, your studies, or your business. The life of Christ in you is meant to set you apart. More than just excelling, you are called to be a beacon of God’s grace in your world. Your excellence is not just for your benefit—it’s a door through which the gospel can be shared and received. Acts 1:1 highlights that Jesus’ works of excellence were noted even before His teachings. In the same way, your excellence can pave the way for others to be drawn to Christ.

So, embrace a life of excellence and let it lead others to Jesus. Shine brightly in all that you do, so that others will be drawn to the light of Christ through you.

Faith-Filled Confession:

I am born to live a life of excellence. I demonstrate the superiority of the divine life in every area of my life. The life of Jesus in me is a super life, and I dominate my world with it, drawing others to the brightness of His glory. Hallelujah!

One-Year Bible Reading Plan: Psalm 128-131; 1 Corinthians 7:25-40