Biblical Answer

The Problem with Ambition

The Bible teaches that ambition is wrong for Christians when it is based on dissatisfaction with God's appointment of our role, our gifting, or our circumstances. Ambition that is driven by a desire for personal gain or recognition is contrary to the meekness and lowliness of Christ. It is also opposed to the poverty of spirit and humbleness of mind that every sinful person should have. According to the Bible, Christians should not seek to advance themselves or achieve success at the expense of others or at the expense of their relationship with God.

The Right Kind of Ambition

On the other hand, ambition is noble when it is driven by a desire to serve God and others. Christians should be ambitious to grow in their faith, to serve others, and to make a positive impact in the world. This kind of ambition is not driven by a desire for personal gain or recognition, but by a desire to glorify God and to bring Him honor. As the Bible says, "Whatever you do, do your work heartily, as for the Lord rather than for men" (Colossians 3:23). This means that Christians should approach their work and their lives with a sense of purpose and intentionality, knowing that they are working for the Lord and not just for themselves.

The Importance of Humility

Ultimately, the key to having the right kind of ambition is humility. Christians must be willing to put others first and to prioritize their relationship with God above all else. As the Bible says, "Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves" (Philippians 2:3). This means being willing to serve others, to put their needs before our own, and to prioritize our relationship with God above all else. When we have this kind of humility, we can have the right kind of ambition - ambition that is driven by a desire to serve God and others, and not by a desire for personal gain or recognition.