Virtuous Ambition

I believe that God likes to speak to us from multiple angles when He really wants to get our attention. I am currently taking a course in Ethical Formation and our assignment recently was to put together our personal virtues. I based many of mine off of Galatians 5:22, but was struggling whether I should add ambition to my list of personal virtues. 

I recently had a conversation with another pastor discussing how there are few awards handed out for pastors, yet so many people want to know what their accomplishments are.

If the idea of listing personal virtues seems a little foreign to you, it may help you to know that it isn't a new concept. Benjamin Franklin and others throughout history have completed similar exercises in an effort to help their lives have greater impact with regard to their morality and integrity. 

If you're curious, check out Ben Franklin's virtues: http://www.artofmanliness.com/2008/06/01/the-virtuous-life-wrap-up/

So, do you think ambition could be a virtue? In my personal search on this matter I came across this article: http://www.christianitytoday.com/le/2010/october-online-only/ambitiouslikejesus.html which offers some interesting perspectives.

Check out the video blog this week to hear some of my own thoughts of mine on this struggle: http://youtu.be/uYhx2Jaq3ZM.

After you read the article above, or watch the video blog, think about these questions:

• Am I an ambitious person? If so, toward what end?
• Is ambition a virtue or a sin? Why or why not? Is the context important for what ambition is aimed toward (work, spiritual life, relationships, etc.)?
• Have I ever taken the time to write out what virtues should guide my ministry or life?
• Is there a certain Scripture that could be a foundation for my virtues?

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