I read a great article the other day by Skye Jethani entitled “The Ambition Engine.” While the article is geared toward those of us in pastoral ministry the implications certainly could apply to all of us. Jethani wrote, 
Sometimes our ambition engine needs a tune-up; a realignment toward Christ and away from self-centered desires. Discerning when an overhaul dilemma. There is no “check engine” light on our ministry dashboard, but Scripture offers wisdom in recognizing when our ambitions are misfiring.
Old Testament figures like Moses and Jeremiah were reluctant leaders. They did not seek power or influence, and at times actively resisted God’s call into leadership. But he put a “fire in their bones” that they could not extinguish. They remind us that calling is a result of God’s grace, not a selfish desire for acclaim. But is humble reluctance what we should expect in every godly leader?
Not according to the New Testament. Peter says elders ought to lead willingly and not under compulsion (1 Pet. 5:2). Paul affirms those who aspire to leadership (1 Tim. 3:1). It is clear that when ambition is sparked by our communion with Christ, it can be a righteous energy that drives our ministry. It inspires us to take risks, try new approaches, or venture to new lands. But any fuel that can accomplish so much good carries inherent dangers as well. Ambition, like an uncontained fire, can also be a source of great destruction. The drive to achieve can backfire on a leader causing great harm to families, congregations, and the leader himself.
I’ll be honest. There are days I really struggle with trying to figure out if my motives are “pure” or not. Sometimes there seems to be such a fine line.
What’s the difference between promoting and believing in a book you’ve written verses self promotion?
What is the difference between challenging a staff person to do better than they’re doing verses just being disappointed because they’re not meeting your self-centered desires?
What is the difference between being upset with someone who has an unhealthy desire for criticism verses someone who said something that just dinged your ego?
These are just a few of the questions I’m asking these days as I seek to live and lead from a pure heart.
So how about you. How do you know the difference between godly and a selfish ambition?
