Thought for Monday, February 6th

February 6, 2012

A Worthwhile Ambition

Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds.

Hebrews 12:1-3

      Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. Let us therefore, as many as be perfect, be thus minded: and if in any thing ye be otherwise minded, God shall reveal even this unto you.

Philippians 3:13-15

Quote of the Day:

“Every great dream begins with a dreamer.   Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world.” – Harriet Tubmman

Today’s Thoughts and Insights

Ambition for the sake of ambition, especially if it is of a worldly focus, may get you a prize, but at what cost?  Often in the world those who strive to be overly ambitious in their pursuits towards success will step on, run over or crush whoever gets in their way when they are attempting to achieve their desired goal – and this is not good.

On the other hand, Godly ambition, focused on achieving the prize of God’s goals and aimed at seeking His approval can be a good thing.

As Christians we need to have the right kind of ambition.  Our ambitions need to be focused on eternal things not on temporal things.  Our ambitions should be aimed at achieving spiritual goals not physical conquests.  And the pursuit of these ambitions should never hurt, destroy or leave in their wake those who have not been made better or drawn closer in their relationship with God as a result of our efforts.

Ambition is not bad – as long as it is properly focused and spiritually motivated and inspired by Godly pursuits.

So, are you feeling ambitious today?

Today’s Prayer

Father you are glorious and amazing, divine and holy: worthy of the highest of praise.  Thank you for your love and mercy and may I be faithful to keep my ambitions focused on eternal gains, Godly accomplishments and worthwhile tasks that will bring glory and honor to you.

“Reach for the stars, even if you have to stand on a cactus.”

 [Spiritually Speaking]

-          Susan Longacre

“Word of God speak, pour down like rain…”

- from ‘Word of God Speak’ by Mercy Me