I was considering the other day the word, ambition. It’s a big word, a strong word, a word that carries pride, achievement and victory. Ambition in and of itself is not wrong, in fact God wants us to succeed and to accomplish great things for His glory! However ambition becomes a bad thing when it crosses over into selfish ambition and that happens ever so quickly. Guarding our hearts and character from the selfishness of ambition that seeks only our own benefit at any cost no matter what is so important. Not so long ago I was faced with a situation where I wanted to push ahead but would I do so at the cost of taking from another person their accomplishment and hard work? You know at the time I did not see it that clearly, like I said ambition becomes selfishness ever so quickly. Praise God the Holy Spirit for the conviction of the soul and spirit that comes swiftly to those who are seeking His will. I am grateful I was able to first SEE my heart and motivation, secondly to repent and third to make it right.
You may think well I’m not seeking to be ambitious so this doesn’t apply to me. My friend selfish ambition applies to everyone as it is rooted in pride.
“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.” Ephesians 6:10-13
The clothing Paul continues to talk of are not just a scarf or a baseball hat, no they are all part of the armor a soldier wears for protection. We are all vulnerable to all forms of pride. The godly humility that is formed in us through the Word of God protects us, guides us and opens our eyes. God’s Word penetrates our soul and searches our heart; the Word protects us so that when the temptation of selfish ambition comes we are ready and able to stand strong.
Let God’s grace flow over your life as you read His Word and let it fill you with wisdom to live a life of righteous that glorifies Him.
From my heart to yours,
DaNetta Fernandez
Great blog DaNetta! It is much needed & greatly appreciated.