So many of us focus on success, and at times we become obsessed. Society leads us to believe that success is the only way to truly be fulfilled in life. Not understanding that pursuing excellence can not only be fulfilling, but also rewarding. Engaging in this assignment has opened my eyes to a deeper understanding of the differences between success and excellence.
In reading the article, “Success vs. Excellence” it was noted that even though success and excellence have similar qualities, they are still very different. The article lists some notable differences between success and excellence. In discussing the differences, the author states, “To succeed is to attain a desired object or desired result. …show more content…
In being an entrepreneur, my main focus in the past was about achieving success. On the other hand, the more I put God first in my life it has become more about excellence and pleasing Him. Therefore, I’ve noticed the more I don’t obsess over my business, and focus on excellence God opens up opportunities for sales and connects me with resources to move my business forward. In reading the article Success vs. Excellence (Sackett, 2012), and doing research on the subjects. I’ve learned how important it is to keep them separate because I never want to have success without excellence, because my priorities have become entangled with my own plans instead of God’s plans for my life. The quote Johnston made in the article Success vs. Excellence (Sackett, 2012), how excellence is “a certain style of life, a manner of living” and success is “attaining cultural goals that are sure to elevate one’s perceived importance within that culture” it has made me re-evaluate the things in my life. As I reflect on my trials and tribulations, I’ve noticed how drastically my life style has changed. Not realizing the Lord was changing my lifestyle for me to be able to believe that I can achieve excellence. That belief has challenged me to step up to the plate, and venture out and accomplish some really amazing things that I never in a million years would of thought of. Furthermore, since I didn’t fight the process of my lifestyle change I notice things being …show more content…
The Lord showed him dreams early on that he would become successful and would reign over his brother and father. He would be so excited about the dreams that he told them to his envious brothers. They hated him for the favoritism their Father showed him, and his dreams (Genesis 37:5-10, NKJV). In their hate they plotted to kill him, but by the grace of God Reuben stepped in, and he was sold into slavery (Genesis 37:28). Despite Joseph hardships, the Lord always positioned him where he found favor with man. The bible states in Genesis 41:39-41: " Then Pharaoh said to Joseph, “Since God has shown you all this, there is none so discerning and wise as you are. You shall be over my house, and all my people shall order themselves as you command. Only as regards the throne will I be greater than you.” And Pharaoh said to Joseph, “See, I have set you over all the land of Egypt.” This became Joseph reward for his faithfulness, and keeping a spirit of excellence. In conclusion, as we experience different seasons in our lives, some that are bountiful, and some that our full of difficulty. We must remember that no matter the season, we must still trust God. “The pursuit of excellence is both a goal and a mark of spiritual maturity” (Keathley, 2004). We want to consistently strive to mature in Christ and press towards excellence in our personal lives and ministry, and He will bless us with