Most Excellent

As we near the end of Paul’s list of things to think about instead of those that cause our anxiety, we find another word that I think is over used for things that aren’t truly excellent. There are times when others might accept our invitation, or agree with us, and our response is “excellent.” But what makes it excellent? Is it extremely good, of the highest quality, or better than most? Probably not. It’s probably our over reaction to a normal occurrence. So, we must ask ourselves what is truly excellent? What can we find in our society that is truly excellent? I wish you the best of luck trying to find things in society that are truly excellent. However, there is one thing that is truly excellent.

In his letter to the followers of Jesus in Corinth, the apostle Paul writes, “And yet I will you the most excellent way” (1 Corinthians 12:31). Paul has just written about the gifts that God gives to people, and wrapped it all up with, “And yet I will show you the most excellent way.” Paul is pointing us to the next chapter where we will discover the most excellent of all things. Chapter 13 is the famous love chapter. Paul wants us to see that love is the most excellent way. How does love help relieve anxiety? It gets us out of focusing on ourselves. It stops the loop of thoughts that causes our anxiety. Love may not be a cure for our anxiety, but it is the medication that will decrease it. Love is the greatest of all things. It is the highest quality asset we have. It is better than anything else.

Love is what brought God to earth in the form of a human. Love is what set Jesus on the path to the cross. Love was forefront when Jesus cried out, “It is finished” (John 19:30). Love is why God pursues us. This is good news. Love produces high quality lives. Love has a positive effect on our brains. It increases chemicals like dopamine, oxytocin, and serotonin, all that help with feeling happier. It also lowers stress, increases our immune system, and helps us emotionally. Through love we have access to a better life. True love begins with God. It’s not something we produce on our own. Our love for God will propel us in the direction of loving others with a genuine love that is not self seeking. When we love others with the love of Jesus, we will find relief for our anxiety. Love is the most excellent way that Paul was pointing to. So, in our pursuit of excellence, let us pursue love. Not for the sake of relieving our anxiety, but because it is most excellent. The byproduct of love is less anxiety. May you find the love of God and share His love with those around you.