“We’re all driven by too much selfish ambition, but none of us has nearly enough godly ambition. You can’t have too much ambition when it comes to the things of God.”- Mark Batterson
“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.”- Philippians 2:3 (NIV)
As Mark Batterson concludes Chapter 6 of Whisper, he asserts that God calls us to compete for what’s right- instead of complaining about what’s wrong. However, we find it hard to discern the language of desire. As Pastor Batterson points out, that’s because we have mixed emotions. Furthermore, we possess an infinite ability for self-deception.
Thus, Mark offers five hard-earned lessons, or caution signs, that he’s acquired in life.
- Check your ego at the door. If you fail to put your ego on the altar everyday, you’ll fall into the comparison trap. And you’ll accomplish little for the kingdom of God, because it’s all about you.
- If you want it too much, you might want it for the wrong reasons. When you want something too much, Mark states, that want often indicates you’re not ready for it. For your desire’s become an idol in your life. Most noteworthy, idols include God-give desires and God-ordained callings.
- Emotion is a great servant but a terrible master. Here the ninth fruit of the Spirit, self-control, is so critical. Mark believes it’s listed last because it takes so long to cultivate. As the emotional gatekeeper, self-control keeps the other emotions in check.
- One key to discerning whether a desire is God-ordained is deciphering whether it waxes or wanes over time. As Pastor Batterson states: “If you’re delighting yourself in the Lord and that desire passes the test of time by waxing stronger, there’s a greater likelihood it’s a good thing and a God thing.”
- A little emotional intelligence goes a long way. Mark believes we need to exercise our spiritual gifts using a measure of emotional intelligence. Otherwise, it’s possible they’ll do more harm than good.
In conclusion, the author states, waste no worry on what others think. Rather, worry about what God thinks.
Today’s question: What Bible verses steer you toward godly ambition? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “We interpret signs via Scripture”
