In this podcast, the hosts discuss the difference between holy ambition and ego in their roles as pastors. They explore the connection between ambition and Christian faith and reflect on personal goals and ambitions. The speakers also delve into the relationship between ambition, success, and self-worth, emphasizing the importance of aligning goals with love and celebrating success for the glory of the Lord.
Ambition needs to be properly defined and motivated by a desire to help others, rather than just seeking personal impact.
The pursuit of ambition should be grounded in love, faith, and hope, while embracing collaboration and celebrating the successes of others.
Deep dives
The Complexity of Ambition
The hosts discuss the complexity of ambition, particularly in relation to holy and selfish ambitions. They emphasize the importance of properly defining success and achievement, as well as the need to understand the different motivations behind our ambitions. They also explore the connection between ambition, impact, and freedom, highlighting the dangers of seeking immediate and forceful impact, while advocating for a more faith-centered and kingdom-oriented approach. The hosts encourage individuals to dream big and embrace ambition while remaining grounded in the pursuit of love, faith, and hope.
Navigating the Tension
The hosts dive into the tension between holy and selfish ambition, examining the cultural and individual influences that shape our perspectives. They challenge the notion that ambition is inherently sinful and instead propose that it is the way ambition is pursued and the goals that are pursued that determine its holiness. They discuss the importance of adjusting timetables and embracing the bumpy road of progress, as well as inviting collaboration and celebrating the successes of others. Ultimately, they encourage listeners to pursue ambition with a sense of freedom and eschatological perspective.
Impact and Envy
The hosts delve into the concepts of impact and envy in relation to ambition. They explore how unhealthy ambition is often driven by a desire for immediate and significant impact, leading to comparison, envy, and a neglect of faith-filled pursuit. They discuss the need to redefine success and achievement in light of kingdom values and to find joy in the successes of others. They also challenge the individualistic mindset often associated with ambition and highlight the importance of embracing collaborative and holistic approaches that align with God's purposes.
Faith, Hope, and Love in Ambition
The hosts examine the role of faith, hope, and love in the pursuit of ambition. They emphasize the importance of aligning ambition with God's purposes, considering the cost, trajectory, and means through which ambition is pursued. They discuss how holiness in ambition can be found by embracing the freedom that comes from trusting in God's timing and recognizing that our ambitions may extend beyond our own lifetimes or require collaboration with others. The hosts also encourage individuals to consider the virtues beneath selfish ambition and seek a greater understanding of God's calling in their lives.
"Earlier in my ministry, someone would come in and they need some help. And so, I stand up to the plate and they bring their problem and I swing. And then, whiff. You know?
And then I see it doesn't register. I see it didn't help. So whiff, I swing again. I swing again until their eyes are glazed over.
And at the end of it I'm like: Was that whole thing about me needing to impact you, or was it really about wanting to help you?"
As Fall Ministry Kick-Off looms, Glenn wants to know the difference between holy ambition and idolatry. Sometimes, he’s not sure if he wants to help people, or simply “make an impact.”
So, how he can recognize the difference in his own life? The Glenn, Russ, and Duke spend time trying to answer this question before wondering if maybe he’s being a little hard on himself.