Your Identity and Purpose
You are identified as a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, and a people for God’s own possession. This identity is not based on ethnicity or merit but on the “Genos”—the source—which is God Himself. You were chosen by Him while you were still a sinner, granting you the incredible privilege of direct access to His presence. As a royal priest, your entire life is a service of worship. You no longer need a mediator to speak to God; instead, you are called to offer your body as a living sacrifice in the “court of the temple,” which is wherever you are—at work, at home, or in your community.
Proclaiming His Excellencies
The reason for this high calling is so that you may “proclaim His excellencies.” This means to publish or advertise God’s outstanding attributes and extremely good deeds to a world that otherwise does not know Him. You act as an ambassador for a God who is inherently excellent. Just as a person advertising a product must reflect its quality, your character must speak to God’s character. This requires you to be an imitator of God, rejecting the “stumbling block” of disobedience and living in a way that validates His redemptive work in your life.
Excellence in Worship and Work
Excellence is not perfection; it is doing the best you can with everything you have in hand. In worship, God expects the “unblemished lamp” rather than leftovers. Malachi 1:8 warns against offering God what you would not dare give to a human leader. This applies to your time, your focus, and your integrity. Similarly, in your career, you are serving the Lord Christ rather than human masters. Work with all your heart, becoming a problem solver and an owner of your responsibilities. Whether you are a barista, a student, or a director, your diligence is a tool to influence culture and advertise the brilliance of the Kingdom.
Living Above Reproach
To live with excellence is to live a life of high quality that is “superior” in its devotion, though not necessarily free from trouble. It involves a commitment to studying the Word of God to understand His will and serve Him enthusiastically. Mediocrity, laziness, and apathy are the opposites of this calling. By maintaining holiness and righteousness, you proclaim that God’s work is effective. Since God resides in your heart and has chosen to spend eternity with you, you are called to host His presence with distinction and passion.
- * *
Are you ready to stop settling for mediocrity and start living with distinction? Commit today to offering God your best version in your work, your worship, and your private life. Contact us to learn more about how to grow in your identity as a royal priest.
