Devotion #1: What Is Your Ambition?

“And thus I make it my ambition to preach the gospel, not where Christ has already been named, lest I build on someone else’s foundation, but as it is written, ‘Those who have never been told of him will see, and those who have never heard will understand.’” Romans 15:20-21 

What is your ambition in life? Where do you find the drive to keep going? What are you willing to work for? As Paul begins to wrap up the book of Romans, he declares that his greatest desire is to preach the Gospel. This is not merely a task he enjoys or feels obligated to do. It is his ambition. 

As individuals and as a church, we often hold many ambitions. These may include achieving success in our careers, raising families, or pursuing fitness and health. While these goals are not inherently wrong, we must ask, “Are they aligned with the mission Christ has called us to?” Every year, we revisit the mission of the church: to Reach the lost, Gather with the saints, and Grow in His Word. Each step emphasizes the centrality of the Gospel - sharing it, discussing it, and growing through it. 

We are a church that believes the Gospel should be at the core of everything we do. Paul’s words in verse 20 highlight the importance of reaching the lost. His ambition is to proclaim the Good News to those who have not heard of Christ. There is a profound joy in sharing the love of Jesus with someone who has never experienced or accepted this truth. This joy should inspire us all, driving us to share the Gospel with determination and perseverance, especially with those where Christ has not “been named.” 

Sharing the Gospel is no small task. It requires hard work, effort, and courage. It is often a spiritual battle; yet, Scripture commands us to take on this mission (Matthew 28:19-20; 1 Corinthians 9:16). Our desires and ambitions in life must be Gospel-centered. As recipients of Christ’s grace, we are called to share this same grace with others, motivated by the transformative power of the Gospel.