Humble ambitions
Xanthe Galanis

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. Philippians 2:3-4

If you look up ‘humility’ in a thesaurus you’ll fine ‘unambitious’ listed as a synonym. What does that mean?! Does it mean that if we’re striving for godly humility in our daily lives we need to abandon all our ambition, all our dreams, all our goals?

Not at all! Paul makes it clear that it’s the motive behind what you want to achieve that matters. He wrote the letter to the Church in Philippi because the people there were causing division and discord by their attitudes and actions. They wanted recognition for what they were doing and were therefore unable to work with others in the church in like-mindedness and love. Their selfish ambition and desperate efforts to make a good impression were ruining the church’s unity. It’s the same attitude that destroys harmony in the workplace and families.

We need to be clear about whose glory we're seeking. Whatever your job might be, it’s important to set ambitious goals for the projects you’re working on and to be dedicated to achieving those goals. But ask yourself; are you working hard for God’s glory or to get recognition from your boss? God deserves the best you have to offer, and he wants you to use your gifts to their fullest.

Pause for a moment today and take an inventory of the ambitions in your life. If you achieved all of your current goals, who would get the glory? Are you striving for you or for God? Take a moment to determine if there are any adjustments you need to make to the goals you've set, and ask God in prayer to help you realign your personal ambitions so that you desire nothing but his will in your life.

Prayer: Lord, forgive me for the times I’ve pursued things for my own glory. Help me to work hard and with enthusiasm in whatever I do that I might please you and be blessing to those around me. Amen.