What Does the Bible Say About Ambition?

Written By Mary Carter

Mary holds a degree in theology and she has a deep understanding of biblical texts. She works as an elementary school teacher in Alabama.

The Bible presents a nuanced view of ambition. It doesn’t condemn ambition outright but warns against selfish, prideful pursuits. Biblical teachings encourage us to align our ambitions with God’s will, focusing on serving others and glorifying God rather than seeking personal glory or power. Ambition, when guided by love, humility, and a desire to do God’s work, is seen positively.

Looking to understand what the Bible says about being ambitious? It’s not all about climbing the corporate ladder. Dive in to discover a deeper, more fulfilling kind of ambition.

What Does the Bible Say About Ambition?

Ambition, as addressed in the Bible, is a topic with many layers. The key is not whether ambition is good or bad, but the motivation and purpose behind it.

In Scripture, there’s a clear distinction between selfish ambition and godly ambition. Selfish ambition, driven by pride, greed, or desire for personal glory, is cautioned against. This kind of ambition can lead to conflict, division, and sin. It’s the kind of ambition that puts self-interest above others and disregards God’s will.

On the other hand, the Bible speaks positively about godly ambition. This is ambition directed towards serving others, glorifying God, and pursuing His purposes. It’s about striving to do your best in the roles and tasks God has given you. The Apostle Paul, for example, was ambitious in spreading the Gospel, but his ambition was rooted in his desire to serve Christ, not personal gain.

The Bible also stresses the importance of humility in ambition. Jesus, in the New Testament, exemplifies this by washing his disciples’ feet, a task typically done by servants. His actions teach us that true greatness and ambition lie in serving others, not in seeking power or status.

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Moreover, the Bible encourages us to seek God’s guidance in our ambitions. It’s about aligning our goals with God’s plan and being open to His direction. The Proverbs often speak about the folly of relying solely on one’s own understanding and the wisdom of trusting in God’s guidance.

In essence, the Bible doesn’t outright condemn ambition. Instead, it offers a framework for understanding and pursuing ambition in a way that honors God. It teaches that ambition, when aligned with God’s will and coupled with humility and a servant’s heart, can be a powerful force for good.

Bible Verses About Ambition

  1. James 3:16 – “For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice.” This verse warns about the negative consequences of selfish ambition.
  2. Philippians 2:3-4 – “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” Here, Paul is emphasizing humility and service over selfish goals.
  3. Proverbs 16:3 – “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.” This proverb encourages aligning our ambitions with God’s will.
  4. Matthew 20:26-28 – “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant… just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve.” Jesus teaches that true ambition is found in serving others.
  5. Galatians 5:19-21 – Lists “selfish ambition” as one of the acts of the flesh, indicating that it’s something to be avoided as a Christian.
  6. 2 Thessalonians 3:10-12 – Paul encourages a strong work ethic and productive behavior, which can be seen as a form of godly ambition.
  7. Proverbs 19:21 – “Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.” This verse reminds us that while we may have our own ambitions, ultimately, God’s purpose is what stands.
  8. 1 Corinthians 10:31 – “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” This verse can apply to ambition, suggesting that whatever we strive for should be for God’s glory, not our own.
  9. Psalm 37:4 – “Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.” This verse suggests that when our ambitions are in line with God’s will, He will support those desires.
  10. Jeremiah 29:11 – “For I know the plans I have for you… plans to give you hope and a future.” While this verse is often taken out of context, it can remind us that God has plans for us, and our ambitions should align with His greater purpose for our lives.
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These verses cement the idea that the Bible’s view on ambition is complex yet clear. It’s not ambition itself that the Bible cautions against, but rather the nature and motivation behind it. The Scriptures encourage ambitions that are rooted in humility, service, and a desire to glorify God, rather than those driven by selfishness, pride, or greed. Through these teachings, we are guided to pursue our goals with a heart aligned with God’s will, ensuring that our ambitions contribute positively to our lives and the lives of those around us.