Finding Drive in Life and Faith
Holding Nothing Back – See That You Also Excel
In our ongoing series on “Holding Nothing Back,” today we delve into a personal reflection and the apostle Paul’s call for excellence in all aspects of life, particularly as described in 2 Corinthians 8:1-7. Up until I was 25, I let life happen to me—I held back. It was only after finding faith and observing extraordinary Christians around me that I realized the importance of having a drive.
Drive is essential, friends. We need challenges that push us beyond our comfort zones. Yesterday, I experienced a bit of frustration. Katie went for a walk with a friend while I took Samuel for a haircut. After lunch, I decided to tackle a home repair job I had been putting off—a fascia panel damaged by a plant growing through it. Starting after lunch instead of early morning, I discovered not just a damaged panel but a partially rotten roof joist.
Instead of calling a professional, I took on the challenge myself—cutting out the rot, replacing the timber, and painting over it. This experience reminded me that finding new and challenging tasks helps us flourish in life.
The apostle Paul wanted the people in the churches he pastored to be driven in all areas of their lives. He saw self-interest, selfishness, and lethargy as obstacles to be overcome. Just as I had to cut out the rot from my roof, we need to remove these negative traits from our lives. The Corinthian Church, at that time, had become passive and lost its edge. Paul pointed out their potential for excellence in areas they were holding back. He encouraged them, saying, “See that you also excel” (2 Corinthians 8:7).
Paul’s message resonates with us today. We need role models who excel, like TV presenter Dan Walker, who recently won £32,000 for charity on “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire.” Walker is smart, cheerful, and well-turned-out—a true gentleman. Another example is YouTuber Bob Stewart, who debates with Muslims at Speakers’ Corner in Hyde Park. He excels in knowledge, grace, kindness, and courage.
Reflect on what you excel at—be it music, art, sport, fitness, design, business, or academia. The Corinthians excelled too, but they needed someone to show them where they could improve. Paul highlighted the Macedonian churches as examples of excellence in all areas of life.
Let’s take Paul’s advice to heart: see that you also excel. Find your drive, tackle new challenges, and strive for excellence in every aspect of your life and faith.
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