Going for Gold by Leading with Purpose and Passion

Reflecting on Ambition, Leadership, and Faith in Our Daily Lives

The Olympics started last week in Paris, which got us thinking about the time, energy, and sacrifices made by all the athletes to compete on the world's highest stage. And to add, the opportunity to represent your country for a purpose greater than just yourself.

Hmm, a purpose greater than our own. Sound familiar?

We don't have anyone competing for a Gold Medal in our group, but we do have a lot of men working to be great leaders for their families, profession, and many other life activities. The question for us this morning is, what are we working towards? As we shared, we have been reading through Philippians in our daily devotions. There are a lot of great verses in Paul's writings, but one stuck out as we thought about our ambitions in life:

"Do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride, but in humility consider others more important than yourselves."  Philippians 2:3

We don't know about you guys, but that one hits home right between the eyes for us. What's our ambition, guys? When we think about our family, do we put their needs before our own, or are we focused on our next tee time at the golf course? When at work, are we considering the needs of our business partners, employees, and co-workers, or are we just focused on climbing the corporate ladder, making money, or getting the next deal done? When we interact with friends, is it all about "having a good time," or are we intentionally building relationships through TRUST and supporting one another? And finally, when we think about our spiritual life, are we plugging in God when convenient, or are we intentionally spending time with HIM in prayer, worship, and relationship?

Guys, it's in our DNA to compete and want to win, whether in sports, business, or any other aspect of life. We have shared this before: It's okay to have that drive. But are we doing it in a way that honors God and follows his commands and the teachings of Jesus?

"I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." Philippians 3:14

Let's take time to step back and think about this. As Christians, we know there is only one prize: the opportunity to spend eternity in heaven with our creator. The Gold medals, accomplishments, and PRIDE that come with our life on earth will all fade and have ZERO value in eternity.

What are we going to do differently this week? Maybe nothing. Keep charging forward and WINNING in life; perhaps we could look through a different lens. Tough stuff, guys. After all, we are MEN, and it's not always natural to put others before ourselves. We will leave you guys with one more verse from Philippians and encouragement for this week:

"Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable-if anything is excellent or praiseworthy-think about such things."  Philippians 4:8

We hope you have a great week, guys. I'm praying for you all this morning for whatever challenges you encounter this week. And I'm Praying that we will all focus our attention upward toward the ultimate prize!