DANGERS OF INORDINATE AMBITIONS II
November 20, 2024
TEXT: Absalom said, “Oh that I were made judge in the land, that every man who hath any suit or cause might come unto me, and I would do him justice!” (2 Samuel 15:4)
Today, we conclude our discussion on the dangers associated with unchecked and inordinate ambitions, having carefully examined Absalom’s life in our previous interaction.
What are the consequences of inordinate ambitions?
- It can lead to destruction of valuable relationships. Many people become so consumed with surpassing others in their workplaces that relationships are permanently damaged. David and Ahithophel, once close, had their relationship broken due to Absalom’s thirst for leadership, which led him to recruit Ahithophel. Unfortunately, Ahithophel later took his own life after his counsel was rejected. (2 Samuel 17:23)
- Inordinate ambition can trigger rebellion against authority. Note how Absalom’s eloquence swayed the Israelites, causing them to abandon their champion. (2 Samuel 15:13)
- It can also lead to chaos and harm others. Absalom’s rebellion resulted in the loss of lives beyond his own.
Biblical Characters Who Demonstrated Inordinate Ambitions
- Adonijah: Like Absalom, his brother Adonijah tried to enthrone himself over Israel, and requested to marry Abishag, but was killed by King Solomon. (1 Kings 1-2)
- Saul: Elevated by God, Saul became empowered and, instead of repenting, pursued ungodly ambitions to kill David and secure his throne and son Jonathan’s future. (1 Samuel 15:26-31, 18:6-9)
- Haman: He sought to eliminate Jews to maintain power. (Esther 3:1-6)
- Simon the sorcerer: After being preached to, Simon offered the disciples money to “purchase” the Holy Spirit’s gift, seeking spiritual status without humility. (Acts 8:9-24)
- Diotrephes: He rejected apostolic advice, seeking domination. (3 John 1:9-11)
SEARCHLIGHT: Unchecked ambition results in destruction and ruin. God resists the proud and gives grace to the humble. Learn your field and await God’s divine “Go-ahead”.
PRAYER: O Lord, help me channel my ambitions according to Your will, in Jesus’ name.
BIBLE READING: Habakkuk 2, 3; Zephaniah 1; Luke 4
— PST. MICHAEL OMOLE
