Ambition is a strong desire to do or to achieve something that typically requires hard work and determination. For example you have an ambition to become a doctor or an anthropologist. This ambition, however, is nothing if we do not capitalize on it by taking the chances and necessary steps to bring out the desired outcomes. In other words, we ought not to wait for a miracle to drop out of the sky or to simply be assigned to the task without being fully qualified and equipped to handle all of the duties and responsibilities it brings. Instead, we should actively pursue our ambition by implementing a solid and workable plan.
Furthermore, we should also be mindful that the roads to great achievements are never straightforward and easy. There are many tests and trails along the way; however, the ambitious will push on regardless – realizing that the struggles are necessary to strengthen and keep one firmly grounded for living the achieved life. The Bible encourages us, however, to place all of our ambitions in the will and guidance of God. In the book of Philippians 3:13-14, Paul states, “13 Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, 14 I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” These scripture verses remind us of how important it is to press on in life. We are to forget the things that are behind like our bad experiences, hurts, and disappointments, etc. We are to not dwell upon the past, only to use the past as fuel to push us to do better in the present and future.
In the book of 1 Corinthians 3:11-13, it states, “
11 For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ. 12 If anyone builds on this foundation using gold, silver, costly stones, wood, hay or straw, 13 their work will be shown for what it is, because the Day will bring it to light. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test the quality of each person’s work.” These three scripture verses are a remarkable warning for us to take heed and be mindful of the foundation that we are building our lives on. Jesus Christ is the only true foundation. Therefore, we are called to examine all of our ambitions, and to make sure that we are building on the foundation that Jesus laid for us. In the end, the foundation and all of our works on it will be tested. The day will also come when all of our works will be brought into the light and only what was built on Jesus and according to his purposes will last. We can rest assured that everything else outside of the will of God, will perish.In conclusion, we should take the time to daily examine our lives – how we are living as well as who and what we are living for. It is important that all of our ambitions glorify God and his purposes for our lives. It is only then that we will receive our full rewards. If our ambitions do not glorify and fulfill God’s purposes, we are moving in the wrong direction. In the end we have wasted our time and energy only to be punished eternally. Be and stay blessed!
Written By: Iodelle A. Chinnery