Godly Ambition
Discipleship S.T.E.P.S.: SHAPE
Scripture: Yea, so have I strived to preach the gospel, not where Christ was named, lest I should build upon another man’s foundation: – Romans 15:20 (KJV)
Ambition is a powerful force, but it is a neutral tool that takes on the character of its object. The Apostle Paul possessed a fierce ambition, yet it was entirely consumed by the mission of Christ. He wasn’t interested in building his own name or establishing a personal legacy; he was obsessed with taking the Gospel to where it had never been heard. When our ambition is self-centered, it leads to burnout and vanity; when it is kingdom-centered, it leads to eternal impact.
Today, examine the ‘striving’ in your own heart. What are you working so hard to achieve? If your current efforts are solely to gain recognition or comfort, ask the Lord to recalibrate your desires. Godly ambition asks, ‘How can my life extend the borders of His influence?’ Align your goals with His mission and watch how He turns your daily labor into a contribution to His eternal kingdom.
Prompt: Is your primary ambition driven by personal success, or by a desire to expand God’s kingdom?
Action Step: The SHAPE module challenges us to align our personal ambitions with God’s ultimate plans and purposes.
Next Step: Identify one personal goal and ask God how it can be used for His glory.