Redeeming Ambition
Ambition often carries conflicting connotations. While some view it as an unambiguous virtue, others associate it with negative traits. However, a closer examination of Scripture reveals a nuanced and redemptive view of ambition that can transform our approach to work and purpose.
The Cultural Dilemma of Ambition
Ambition is frequently framed as a driving force for individual achievement and success. In some cultures, it's celebrated as a positive attribute. Kelli María Korducki, writing in the New York Times, describes ambition for many as "an unambiguous virtue, akin to hard work or tenacity"1.
However, cultural reluctance exists to discuss ambitions openly in other contexts. A report by CGU, an Australian insurance company, found that "nearly 7 out of 10 of us say we don't like to talk about our ambitions for fear of being labelled a 'bragger'".2
In Japan, the term carries even more negative connotations. Japanese church leaders associate ambition with historical figures known for their ruthless pursuit of power, such as Nobunaga Oda, infamous for killing his brothers to rise to the top.3
A Biblical Reframing of Ambition
The Apostle Paul offers a contrasting perspective on ambition in 1 Thessalonians 4:11-12:
"Make it your ambition to lead a quiet life: You should mind your own business and work with your hands, just as we told you, so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders and so that you will not be dependent on anybody."
This passage presents a radically different view of ambition. Let's consider each phrase in depth:
Ambition for Rest
Paul encourages believers to "make it your ambition to lead a quiet life." The Greek word for "quiet life" is ἡσυχάζειν (hēsychazein), which is closely related to the concept of rest. This echoes the Sabbath rest described in Hebrews 4:9-11:
"There remains, then, a Sabbath-rest for the people of God; for anyone who enters God's rest also rests from their works, just as God did from his. Let us, therefore, make every effort to enter that rest, so that no one will perish by following their example of disobedience."
This suggests that Godly ambition stems from a place of inner peace and rest in God rather than anxious striving. It's a call to cultivate a sense of contentment and trust in God's provision rather than constantly pushing for more out of fear or insecurity.
Minding Your Own Business
The appeal to "mind your own business" (πράσσειν τὰ ἴδια - prassein ta idia) discourages meddling in others' affairs and engaging in unproductive activities. Paul addresses this issue again in 2 Thessalonians 3:11-12:
"We hear that some among you are idle and disruptive. They are not busy; they are busybodies. Such people we command and urge in the Lord Jesus Christ to settle down and earn the food they eat."
This suggests that Godly ambition requires us to be productive and steward the resources God has given us. It's a call to focus on our responsibilities rather than being distracted by gossip, comparing ourselves with others, or interfering in matters that don't concern us.
Work with Your Hands
By emphasising "work with your hands," Paul challenged the cultural norms of his time, which viewed manual labour as degrading. This perspective elevates all forms of honest work as dignified and worthy of respect.
This echoes the broader biblical theme of the dignity of work, established from the beginning when God placed Adam in the Garden of Eden to "work it and take care of it" (Genesis 2:15). It suggests that our work, whatever form it takes, is a participation in God's ongoing creative and sustaining activity in the world. Ambition is not about scaling societally approved skyscrapers but joining God in His creative, sustaining of the world.
Winning Respect and Independence
The ultimate goals of this Godly ambition are to "win the respect of outsiders" and avoid being "dependent on anybody." This highlights the importance of integrity and self-sufficiency in our work. It's another person-centred, not self-centred, approach to ambition. It will ultimately lead people to glorify God.
Practical Implications
This biblical view of ambition has profound implications for how we approach ambition and work:
1. Work from Rest: Instead of anxious striving, approach work from a place of inner peace and trust in God. This might involve starting each day with prayer or meditation or regularly taking time for Sabbath rest.
2. Focus on Responsibilities: Avoid getting entangled in workplace politics or unproductive activities. Instead, concentrate on fulfilling your duties with excellence.
3. Respect All Work: Recognize dignity in all forms of honest labour, regardless of social status. This attitude can transform how we interact with people in various professions.
4. Serve Others: View work as an opportunity to serve God and neighbours. This might involve going above and beyond in your tasks, looking for ways to support and encourage colleagues by addressing structural issues of mercy and justice.
5. Cultivate Integrity: Aim to win the respect of others through consistent, honest work rather than self-promotion or manipulation.
6. Pursue Financial Stewardship: Work towards financial independence not as an end but as a means of participating in God’s work for His world.
Conclusion
By reframing ambition through a biblical lens, we can cultivate a healthier, more fulfilling approach to work. It allows us to see our work as part of God's larger plan for the world, transforming even mundane tasks into acts of worship and service.
This biblical ambition calls us to a life of quiet faithfulness, diligent work, and loving service - a radical alternative to current definitions of success and achievement. In doing so, we find personal fulfilment and become powerful witnesses to the Gospel’s transformative power in all areas of life.
We’re Finally Starting to Revolt Against the Cult of Ambition By Kelli María Korducki, New York Times June 6, 2021
https://www.cgu.com.au/cgu-blog-tags/australia
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oda_Nobunaga