Ambition

O. T. #2230 "Ambition"

July 7, 2022

Habakkuk 2-Part 6

LET IT GLOW

Are we trusting in God's Word (brighter days ahead) and resting in His will?

Not only are we saved by faith but are instructed to live by faith. It is our faith that is the victory which overcomes the world. (1John 5:4) Faith is a lifestyle. It is not puffed up nor depends on our own resources. 

To live by faith means to believe God's Word and obey it no matter how we feel, what we see, or what the consequences may be. (Wiersbe)

Habakkuk knew difficult times were ahead for the Jews in Judah. Their only resource was to trust God's Word and rest in His will. The remnant believed God would rescue them from captivity.

Is God our refuge and strength? (Nah. 1:7)

LET IT GROW

To the godless Babylonians, God would be their judge and punish their sins. The prophet recorded 5 woes (different sins) as a result:

1. Selfish ambition (verses 6-8)
2. Covetousness (verses 9-11)
3. Exploitation of people (verses 12-14)
4. Drunkenness and violence (verses 15-17)
5. Idolatry (verses 18-20)

First, the Babylonians stopped at nothing to acquire wealth and expand their kingdom. (They had hoards of stolen goods while killing the people to get it.) They were warned that one day the owners of that wealth would rise up and collect their due against the Babylonians. The Medes and Persians did just that. (Daniel 5)

Ambition can be a bad or good thing, depending how it is used. Paul had ambition to share the Gospel with others and please God. So are we. (2 Cor. 5:9) 

LET IT GO

Lord, You see into our hearts.

Help us live by faith, trusting in You, Jesus.

May our ambition be to help others come to know Jesus.