Ambition……………………..

Hard work

Determination

Purpose

Intent

Plan

Desire

Dream

Aspiration

Goal

Aim

Target

Wish

These words can often lead to material success, promotions, high scores, popularity…………………..

Achievements that elevate

Actions that draw attention 

Moments that bring praise

Accomplishments that result in an easier life

But this morning as I was reading in I Thessalonians, I came across a passage that took the word “ambition” and pointed it in the opposite direction.

Aim low

Stay quiet

Work hard

Paul says,

“Make it your ambition to lead a quiet life,

to mind your own business,

and to work with your hands.”

In a world filled with so many ways to “see” the success of others,

I find great peace in knowing that in God’s eyes success has nothing to do with how we look to the world but everything to do with how we look to Him.

The pressure is gone to make the most, have the most, or be the most.

Climbing a ladder can be replaced with sitting on a stool.

The pursuit of stuff can become the pursuit of Him.

The road to success can be exchanged for the path to peace.

This morning, I’m thinking about what I want the next chapter of my life to look like.

I’m thinking about how I want my kids to measure success.

I’m thinking about all the disciples gave up to follow Jesus,

and I’m hoping I can be just as faithful in laying down my own desires in order to pick up the desires of Him who loves me most.