Ambition

<<aspiration, dream, objective>>

Ambition can be described as an intense drive for success or power; a desire to achieve wealth, honour and fame. The world's focus is on selfish gain and prominence while Christ taught we should seek first His kingdom and righteousness, with being first in the Kingdom of God is to become a servant (Mt 6:33, 20:26-28, 23:11,12).

As believers, we are not to have anything that takes a higher priority in our lives than God. While it is admirable to have a goal or aim in life, it should not be at the expense of our Christian commitment or devotion to Him, our marriage, or by taking advantage of others (Ex 20:3; Mk 12:30). Paul asked, “Am I trying to win the approval of men, or of God?” and then stated “If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ…We are not trying to please men but God” (Gal 1:10; 1 Thes 2:4). This champion of the Christian faith was not interested in the praise of men, but of God (Jn 5:44; Phil 3:7-14). He said it was his ambition to preach the gospel where Christ was not known (Rom 15:20).

The goals we have should lead us closer to God rather than detracting from His call on our lives. Our ambitions should never become so consuming that spiritual things are squeezed out amidst the ‘thorns’ (Mk 4:7). “Do not seek great things for yourself” for “What is the benefit if you gain the whole world yet lose your soul?” (Jer 45:5; Mt 16:26; Lk 12:16-21).

Selfish ambitions derive from the old life (Gal 5:19,20; Phil 1:17; Jas 3:14,16). Instead, we are challenged to consider how others will benefit by our desire to reach out and serve the world (Phil 2:3,4). Jesus is the ultimate example. He voluntarily humbled and gave Himself to die for us (Phil 2:5-11). We should aim to be a Godly example displaying the fruit of the spirit (Gal 5:22,23; 1 Thes 4:11,12; 1 Tim 4:12).

Any goal must be legal, in keeping with Biblical guidelines, beneficial to society and achieved by ethical means. When success is attained, be sure to honour God. He has given you the ability and His glory is not to be attributed to anyone else (Deut 8:18; Isa 42:8). Make the most of the opportunities

What is my ambition in life? Is it to please God more than anything else?

given to you (Eph 5:15,16; Col 4:5). Strive to accomplish your goal with excellence. It will be a target to aim for, providing purpose as you focus your abilities, and important lessons will be learnt even if things don’t work out as you hoped. Remember, “Many are the plans in a man’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails” (Prov 16:1, 19:21).

What dreams do you have? Are you motivated to see them become a reality? This will require prayer, persistence and hard work as Paul noted. “We constantly pray for you, that our God...may fulfill every good purpose of yours and every act prompted by your faith” (2 Thes 1:11).