The Question: In what ways have you implemented or put into practice the Pursuit of Excellence of character into your life? How have you been challenged in giving this “Gift" to the Lord?
From: Baldwinville, Ma
Sometime ago I worked as a ward clerk in a hospital. It was a very challenging job, especially in being a witness for the Lord amongst unbelievers. There was an incident in which a nurse continually harassed me to the point I almost had a nervous breakdown. One night it all came to a head. I ran out of the room threatening to quit. My supervisor talked me out of it. I had a choice at this point. I could quit my job and ruin my Christian witness or humble myself and seek her forgiveness (not knowing how to handle the situation, I talked to others about her behind her back). I chose the latter. As I asked for her forgiveness I felt I had done the right thing even though she evaded the whole issue.
Through it all, I came to realize that having moral excellence does not mead your are perfect, or that you’ll never fall, but it’s God’s grace that bestows upon you dignity and integrity to do the right thing in every situation.
Submitted by: Linda Rahaim
From: Templeton, Ma
As I read the article on women of excellence I was greatly blessed. It confirmed something that God has been speaking to me. There are four verses that came to mind (all in the King James Version).
And I brethren, when I came to you, came not with excellency of speech or of wisdom, declaring unto the testimony of God. For I determined not to know anything among you, save Jesus Christ and Him crucified. I Corinthians 2:1-2.
But we have this treasure in earthen vessels that the excellency of the power may be of God and not of us. II Corinthians 4:7.
I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord. Philippians 3:8.
As we pursue excellence in Christ we need to remember it is not in our own strength, abilities, or accomplishments, but as women deferred to the Lord, hearts yielded daily to Him, we will excel in all things through Christ in us.
Submitted by: Lorraine Stewart
From Oak Harbor, WA
My mom used to sometimes take the wind out of our sails by remarking, “Pretty is as pretty does!” It was her way of reminding us that if we didn’t act pretty, the starched pinafore and white shoes wouldn’t help a great deal. I soon came to realize that in order to act “pretty”, I must first think “pretty”! This thought echoes in the concept that our outer character will shine if we first let God clean up the inner guy.
My plea: God make me squeaky clean—heart, body, mind and soul!! We don’t want a fabulous Easter bonnet covering up dirty ears!
Submitted by: Rita Gerdts