Godly Ambition
True greatness is achieved by becoming a Christian and seeking to honor God, rather than seeking human recognition.
C.H. Spurgeon addresses the dangers of earthly ambition, warning young men against the pursuit of fame and honor, which can lead to weariness and disappointment. He emphasizes that true greatness comes from embracing the name of Christ, which offers rest and fulfillment beyond worldly accolades. Spurgeon encourages listeners to seek a higher ambition rooted in humility and service to God, rather than the fleeting praise of men. Ultimately, he assures that being hidden in Christ brings true satisfaction and a deeper sense of purpose.
Text
Perhaps, young man, you are laboring after fame. You despise gold, but you pant to obtain a great name. Alas, ambition's ways are very weary, and he who climbs the loftiest peak of honor finds that it is a slippery place, where rest is quite unknown. Young brother, take a friend's advice and care no longer for man's praise, for it is mere wind. If thou wouldst rise to a great name, become a Christian, for the name of Christ is the name above every name, and it is bliss to be hidden beneath it, and overshadowed by it. Christ will not make thee great among men, but he will make thee so little in thine own esteem that the lowest place at his table will more than satisfy thee.
He will give thee rest from that delirious dream of ambition, and yet fire thee with a higher ambition than ever.
From a sermon by Charles Haddon Spurgeon entitled "Rest For The Laboring," delivered October 22, 1876.
Sermon Outline
- The Dangers of Ambition
- The Folly of Seeking Man's Praise
- The True Source of Greatness
- The Rest and Satisfaction of Humility
- Rest from Ambition's Delirium
- A Higher Ambition in Christ
Key Quotes
“Ambition's ways are very weary, and he who climbs the loftiest peak of honor finds that it is a slippery place, where rest is quite unknown.” — C.H. Spurgeon
Application Points
- Let go of your desire for human recognition and seek to honor God instead.
- Cultivate humility and learn to rely on God's approval rather than human praise.
- Becoming a Christian is the key to achieving true greatness and finding rest and satisfaction.