Skip to content

Desiring to excel is not a sin. It is motivation that…

“Desiring to excel is not a sin. It is motivation that determines ambition's character. Our Lord never taught against the urge to high achievement, but He did expose and condemn unworthy motivation.” quote by J. Oswald Sanders
Download Open image
“Desiring to excel is not a sin. It is motivation that determines ambition's character. Our Lord never taught against the urge to high achievement, but He did expose and condemn unworthy motivation.”

J. Oswald Sanders

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Ambition driven by pure motives is virtuous, while selfish or prideful drives are condemned.

In simple terms: Good motives make ambition noble.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate noble motives.

Themes

ambition morality motivation

Mood

reflective inspirational

Type

theological ethical

When to use this quote

  • career advancement
  • academic pursuits
  • leadership roles
  • personal goals

Key Concepts

theology ethics character

Questions to Reflect On

  • What motivates your goals?
  • How can you align ambition with humility?
A Different Perspective

Self‑interest can masquerade as noble ambition.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by J. Oswald Sanders

Explore all 75 J. Oswald Sanders quotes

More Achievement quotes

Browse all 3,867 Achievement quotes