Commit to Excellence
by Inspiration Ministries
"You can enter God’s Kingdom only through the narrow gate … the gateway to life is very narrow and the road is difficult, and only a few ever find it." – Matthew 7:13-14 NLT The paintings seem serene – the reflection of light on calm waters, images caught at sunset, the sky and trees, boats and cathedrals, and his beloved garden. This is the legacy of Claude Monet. Born in Paris in 1840, he became known as an impressionist with a unique style of capturing impressions. His paintings became popular in his lifetime and have remained so since his death in 1926. Yet in reality, these paintings often were the result of struggle. Monet was insecure and prone to frustration and despair. He told a journalist, “Many people think I paint easily, but it is not an easy thing to be an artist. I often suffer tortures when I paint.” He experienced “great suffering.” But the results were masterpieces that have stood the test of time. Other artists have comparable stories. They’re not willing to accept the shallow or superficial but are dedicated to excellence and work hard until they are satisfied with the results. In the spiritual realm, many are content with mediocrity, willing to go along with the crowd and do the minimum. But others feel God’s call to go higher, probe deeper, not accept shortcuts but instead to follow God wherever He leads. As Jesus taught, we are not to walk on the broad ways, but seek the narrow way. We are not to be satisfied until we have received His blessings and know we’ve been faithful and done our best. Prayer Father, thank You for all You have given me. Show me how I can serve You with these gifts. In Jesus’ name, amen. Extended Reading Matthew 7
