Is ambition inherently selfish, or were we created for it?
In this episode of the Lacking Nothing Podcast, Griff and Pastor Alex dive into the tension between human ambition and godly ambition. After a quick banter about accountability apps and enjoying our staple extra-cheesy Goldfish snacks, we get real about what it actually takes to step into your God-given calling.
We explore how ambition was built into humanity from the very beginning in Genesis, why fear so often paralyzes us from moving forward (even when God says "go!"), and how to distinguish between selfish ambition and Kingdom-driven purpose. Plus, we share personal stories of moving cross-country, planting a church through extreme adversity, and finding beauty in the middle of life's hardest trials.
In this episode, we discuss:
- The true definition of ambition and its origins in the Garden of Eden.
- How fear holds us back from making big moves—and how perfect love drives it out.
- Moses at the Red Sea: Why God tells us to stop crying out and start moving forward.
- Personal stories of cross-country moves, health battles, and church planting in Tampa.
- Philippians 2:3–4 and the "upside-down" Kingdom mentality of humbling yourself to go high.
If you’ve been feeling hesitant to start that business, launch that podcast, or step out in faith, this episode is for you!
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Timestamps / Chapter Markers
- 00:00 - Intro & The Accountability Betting App
- 00:32 - Welcome to Lacking Nothing & Fun Snack Time (Goldfish)
- 01:35 - Defining Ambition: Is it Good or Bad?
- 02:25 - Ambition in the Garden: Adam’s Original Mandate
- 03:20 - Moses at the Red Sea: When Fear Paralyzes Progress
- 04:40 - Be Strong & Courageous: Overcoming Fear with Perfect Love
- 05:15 - Planting a Church in Tampa: Alex’s Story of Facing Trials
- 06:35 - Finding Glory in the Struggle: Griff’s Story & Lord of the Rings
- 07:50 - Selfish Ambition vs. Kingdom Ambition (Philippians 2:3–4)
What is Lacking Nothing?
Produced by Grace City Tampa Church, Lacking Nothing is the podcast where we intentionally pursue the topics, tensions, and tools to enable us to live a life in pursuit of lacking nothing.
Designed for those seeking a deeply rooted and fully formed faith, each episode examines the realities of everyday discipleship. By confronting cultural challenges and grounding our discussions in biblical truth, we aim to equip listeners with the practical habits and theological framework necessary to navigate modern life with clarity and conviction.