Have you ever heard the story about the cowboy who wanted to be exceptional? One day he decided he wanted a dog, so he bought a dachshund. Now, I don’t know about those dogs, but some of you do. So far every dachshund I’ve met is nasty and just sits and barks. Anyway, this cowboy walks his dachshund at the ranch and everyone’s staring at him like he’s crazy. Another cowboy finally got up the nerve to ask why he bought such an odd pet. His reply, "Well, y’all keep tellin’ me to get a long little doggie."

The Webster dictionary defines "exceptional" as forming an exception, rare, an unusual thing, an anomaly, or something that is different than the rest. Today, that’s what God calls us as Christians to be—an exception for Him. God is looking for dedicated Christians during these times when our world is dark with sin and most churches are carnal and cold. Looking for those who are ready to stand up and dedicate themselves to His cause. Willing to preach the clear gospel with power and display their lives as a testimony to the world.

So why don’t you take a few minutes and do something special for a coworker or relative? Not only will it count for eternity, but it will also make God smile. Be exceptional for Christ today.