Second place

You know in any athletic game, not to many people remember who came in second.  For example, many fans can remember who won the super bowl, however, only few can remember who came in second.  I know for me, I like to win.  Coming in second place is not that fun.

Did you know that Andrew is frequently identified in the Gospels as "Simon Peter's brother."  But Andrew didn't care about rank or recognition; his great concern was for others, especially bringing others to Jesus.  He may have been looked at as living in Peter's shadow. 

He was a very important figure.  Andrew did not care about fame, popularity or receiving any recognition.  All he cared about was bringing people to Jesus.  That is what it is all about folks.  Bringing people to Jesus!!! Who cares if people will ever notice you or even mention your name.  Matthew 6:19-21 comes to my mind. 

"Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal:  but lay up for yourselves treasures in Heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal:  For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also."

Ambition

Ambition can be good or bad, depending on the motive.  Ambition is a strong desire to do or to achieve something, typically requiring determination and hard work.  When I was in college, I had ambition to be the best second baseman I could be on the baseball team.  I work very hard day in and day out.  Ambition is a good thing right?  Yes, when it is pointed in the right direction.  My ambition cost.  What did it cost me?  It cost me serving the Lord Jesus.  You see, during that time, I did not attend church like I should, therefore; my fellowship with the Lord took a back seat.  Ambition is a good thing?? Right?

Lucifer, had AMBITION....His ambition was to be like the Most High.  If your motive is self-promotion and selfish gain, and if your method is deceptive and harmful to others, then ambition is WRONG.  But if our motive is to GLORIFY GOD and our method is to do His will and wait for His timing, then ambition is good. 

Philippians 2:3 says it all.  "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit."  Thessalonians 4:11 says that we need to make our ambition to lead a quiet life. 

Let's us put aside all ambition that does not glorify the Lord Jesus Christ.  Remember, it is not about us.  It is all about HIM!!!

Have a great week!!!!
Brad Thompson