Ambition Framework: Imitating Jesus

Introduction 

First Ambition: Approval of God

Second Ambition: Manifesting the Victory of Christ

Third Ambition: Bear Fruit

Imitating Jesus is the fourth principle of the Ambition Framework and a vital part of marketplace ministry. Whatever our field, we will meet people who may never enter a church but will read the evidence of our lives. Discipleship is therefore not admiration but imitation: following Christ’s character, compassion, obedience, and way of serving in every sphere of life.

Key Scriptures: 1 Peter 2:21; Matthew 5:48

Christ left us an example so that we would follow in His steps. Our faith cannot be separated from our work; His character must shape our conduct in the boardroom, classroom, workplace, and open field.

Doing Business Until He Comes

Jesus said, “Do business till I come” (Luke 19:13, NKJV). This instruction calls believers to purposeful obedience and faithful service. Our work is not separate from discipleship; it is one of the places where discipleship becomes visible.

The following marks show what it means to imitate Jesus in the marketplace:

·         death to self;

·         imitation of Jesus;

·         servanthood;

·         obedience;

·         an indwelling Word;

·         productivity;

·         love for other disciples; and

·         exclusive devotion.

1. DEATH TO SELF

Key Scriptures: Luke 14:25–34; Matthew 16:24; Luke 22:42; Galatians 2:20

Jesus taught His followers to count the cost, deny themselves, take up their cross, and follow Him. In the marketplace, counting the cost means planning carefully before starting a business, purchasing property, establishing a practice, or undertaking a major project. Sound planning includes assessing resources, especially finances, and ensuring that the assignment can be completed well.

Yet discipleship goes deeper than planning. Taking up the cross represents death to self-will. Jesus modelled this surrender when He prayed, “Not My will, but Yours, be done” (Luke 22:42, NKJ). Paul expressed the same truth in Galatians 2:20: “I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me.”

Marketplace reflection:

·         What will this plan cost?

·         What must I lay down to move forward?

·         Is this project part of God’s mandate, or is it driven by self-enrichment, self-gratification, or visions of grandeur?

2. IMITATING JESUS

Key Scriptures: Matthew 10:24–25; 1 Peter 2:21; Acts 4:13; 1 Peter 1:16; Matthew 5:48

Jesus is our pattern and plumb line. A disciple is not above the teacher; the goal is to become like the teacher. The early Christians were recognised because they had been with Jesus. In the same way, our lives should make His influence visible.

We are called to imitate Christ’s prayer life, compassion, brokenness, love, mercy, forgiveness, holiness, and obedience. Mature spiritual leadership can help us recognise blind spots, but every example must ultimately point us back to Christ.

Matthew 5:48 calls believers to maturity and wholeness. This cannot be achieved through human strength alone. As we follow Christ, obey His Word, remain humble, and allow Him to live through us, His character is formed in us.

3. SERVANTHOOD

Key Scriptures: John 13:13–17; Mark 10:45; Matthew 20:26–28; Philippians 2:5–7; Galatians 5:13; Matthew 23:11

Marketplace success can tempt us to develop illusions of grandeur, but Kingdom greatness is measured by service. Jesus washed His disciples’ feet and made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a servant.

A servant-hearted marketplace leader:

·         remains humble as influence grows;

·         uses freedom and authority to serve others in love;

·         does not consider any honest task beneath them; and

·         keeps an open hand, ready to help.

If we want to excel in the marketplace, our posture before Christ must remain one of humility and service.

4. OBEDIENCE

Key Scriptures: Matthew 4:19–20; Matthew 9:9; Matthew 21:5–6; Luke 5:5

Leadership can create the illusion that we hold all power and control. In the Kingdom, however, Christ holds the plumb line. The disciples responded to His call promptly: they left their nets, rose from their work, carried out His instructions, and acted at His word.

Obedience is not always easy, especially when a task appears beneath us. Yet when self is surrendered, every assignment becomes an opportunity to serve and reveal Christ’s love and grace. A disciple never outgrows humility.

5. THE INDWELLING WORD

Key Scriptures: John 8:31; John 6:56, 66; John 1:14; 2 Timothy 2:15; Psalm 119:11

Jesus said, “If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed” (John 8:31, NKJ). Crowds followed Him when they saw miracles, but many withdrew when His teaching demanded depth. True disciples remain when the Word challenges them.

The indwelling Word must be received daily. It gives wisdom and understanding, illuminates our path, directs our decisions, strengthens us in adversity, protects us from error, restores hope, and gives confidence when we face intimidating circumstances.

Marketplace practice:

·         Read and study Scripture consistently.

·         Test decisions against the Word rather than emotion or trend.

·         Receive fresh direction for the situation and field in which you are serving.

·         Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, rightly dividing the word of truth (2 Timothy 2:15).

6. PRODUCTIVITY

Key Scriptures: John 15:8; Matthew 28:19; Galatians 5:22–23

Productivity in the Kingdom means bearing fruit. One of the clearest marks of a disciple is the ability to make other disciples. We cannot credibly teach a path we refuse to walk ourselves; our instruction must be supported by a life that can honestly say, “Follow me as I follow Christ.”

The fruit of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control—provides a practical measure of Christlike productivity. The more these qualities shape our lives, the more clearly, we imitate Jesus.

7. LOVE FOR OTHER DISCIPLES

Key Scriptures: John 13:34–35; 1 John 3:16

Jesus raised the standard of love: we are to love one another as He loved us. His love was sacrificial, demonstrated by laying down His life. Our love for fellow believers must therefore move beyond sentiment to practical self-giving. This love is one of the clearest public signs that we are His disciples.

8. EXCLUSIVE DEVOTION

Key Scriptures: Luke 14:26, 33; Romans 12:1

A disciple loves Jesus above possessions, relationships, personal ambition, and even life itself. Exclusive devotion means that Christ determines the direction of our associations and the trajectory of our marketplace decisions.

The New Testament picture of a living sacrifice echoes the burnt offering that was given wholly to God. Discipleship requires the same wholehearted surrender: a life that is holy, acceptable to God, and fully available for His service.

CONCLUSION

Imitating Jesus requires practice, patience, endurance, and devotion. The task is demanding, but the Holy Spirit helps us. As we lay down self, embrace servanthood, obey Christ, abide in His Word, bear fruit, love one another, and remain wholly devoted to Him, His character becomes visible through us.

This is how marketplace influence grows: not through self-promotion, but through a life that consistently reflects Jesus.

Marketplace Application: Study Jesus’ leadership style:

• His communication
• His compassion
• His clarity
• His courage
• His confrontation
• His consistency

Then model it in your business.

Grace and peace to you. 

Ambition Framework: Bear Fruit

 

Introduction 

First Ambition: Approval of God

Second Ambition: Manifesting the Victory of Christ

In the Ambition Framework, we begin to understand God’s view on ambition and what it involves. We cannot think like the world thinks and still expect God to bless us in the marketplace. The only way we can know what God thinks is to turn to His Word and implement it in our lives.

We have already looked at two principles within the framework: the approval of God and manifesting the victory of Christ. Each is a potent revelation of God’s thoughts on an ambitious lifestyle. Being a disciple and following in Christ’s footsteps are not debatable matters with God. If we want to reign and rule within our spheres, then we must follow Christ. Through His demonstrated life, we learn to lay down self, obey each instruction from the throne, and overcome the enemy, the world, and the flesh. Without doing so, we won’t be effective in the Kingdom.

The third principle is the power of measurable results. In the marketplace, we focus on results, but Scripture defines this as bearing fruit.

Romans 7:4

Therefore, my brethren, you also have become dead to the law through the body of Christ, that you may be married to another, even to Him who was raised from the dead, that we should bear fruit to God.

Characteristics of Fruit

There are six characteristics of fruit that we can learn from to bear fruit in the marketplace.

· FINANCIAL

· REPENTANCE

· UNION WITH CHRIST

· IDENTITY

· TESTIMONY

· SOULS

 

Let’s look at each one individually.

FINANCIAL

The financial side of bearing fruit is a very important one. How you manage your finances tells God that He can trust you with more. Money is a tool that God gives you not to store in a storehouse, but to give as the Holy Spirit directs.  

Philippians 4:15-19

15 Now you Philippians know also that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church shared with me concerning giving and receiving but you only.

16 For even in Thessalonica you sent aid once and again for my necessities.

17Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that abounds to your account.

18Indeed I have all and abound. I am full, having received from Epaphroditus the things sent from you, a sweet-smelling aroma, an acceptable sacrifice, well pleasing to God.

19And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. (NKJ)

 

The fruit of abundant giving shows your trustworthiness. It shows that you are not seeking merely to enrich yourself. (Please do not hear what I am not saying… it is all right to have more than enough. To manage your money in such a way that you can pay your monthly expenses, maintain a savings account, or even make sound investments. But when you buy things just to parade them on social media or in front of friends, you enter dangerous territory because you misunderstand riches. 

Having money enables you to be the hand of God on this earth. This is why He blesses you with the wisdom and understanding to have more. However, the inability to give causes barrenness.

2 Corinthians 8:6-7

6 So we urged Titus, that as he had begun, so he would also complete this grace in you as well. 7 But as you abound in everything — in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in all diligence, and in your love for us — see that you abound in this grace also. (NKJV)

The Corinthian church was barren in giving.

Acquiring money is a grace gift, and God only gives this to people who have learned to manage it well. Enjoying the good things in life is evidence of your faithfulness and obedience. However, it is not your primary objective. Your objective should always be how to advance the Kingdom of God.

REPENTANCE

This is evidence of a changed life. Repentance shows that you place humility at the forefront. You cannot confess repentance but still live as the world does. In our spiritual household, alcohol, for instance, is not permitted at all. And all of the people I know live by that rule. You cannot confess God’s love while having alcohol on your breath.

True repentance means you leave sin behind. You make no room for it.

Luke 3:8

Therefore, bear fruits worthy of repentance, and do not begin to say to yourselves, `We have Abraham as our father.' For I say to you that God is able to raise up children to Abraham from these stones.

See also Matt.3:8. The Pharisees and Sadducees presented no evidence of change.

By Contrast:

1. The Prodigal son showed evidence of a changed mind by changing his direction - i.e. he went back to his father to confess his sins. (See Luke 15).

2. Zaccheus showed evidence of repentance by giving away half of his wealth and making restitution for his sins - See Luke 19.

UNION WITH CHRIST

This is growth in representing Him. Representation of Christ is a daily commitment to walk in union with Him. You cannot confess you are a believer while following your own mind. We must have the mind of Christ in all walks of life. How much more so in the marketplace where you meet all kinds of people, faiths, and cultures. Your union with Christ sets you apart from everyone so that you can come to a place where you can say with boldness, “Follow me as I follow Christ.”

John 17:21

"that they all may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You; that they also may be one in Us, that the world may believe that You sent Me."

John 15:5

"I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing."

THESE FRUITS ARE CALLED FRUITS OF RIGHTEOUSNESS:

Philippians 1:11

being filled with the fruits of righteousness which are by Jesus Christ to the glory and praise of God.

Righteousness is right standing with God by conforming to God’s attributes. This conformity comes through union with Christ.

These fruits are:

[1]. HOLINESS

Romans 6:22

But now having been set free from sin, and having become slaves of God, you have your fruit to holiness, and the end everlasting life.

Galatians 5:24

And those who are Christ's have crucified the flesh, with its passions and desires.

JESUS IS THE "HOLY CHILD"

Acts 4:27 [KJV]

For of a truth against thy holy child Jesus, whom thou hast anointed,

Acts 4:30 [KJV]

by stretching forth thine hand to heal; and that signs and wonders may be done by the name of thy holy child Jesus.

[2]. FAITHFULNESS

Ephesians 1:1

Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, to the saints who are in Ephesus, and faithful in Christ Jesus:

Revelation 17:14

"These will make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb will overcome them, for He is Lord of lords and King of kings; and those who are with Him are called, chosen, and faithful."

1 Corinthians 4:2

Moreover it is required in stewards that one be found faithful.

JESUS IS FAITHFUL

Revelation 19:11

Then I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse. And He who sat on him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness He judges and makes war.

[3]. WISDOM

James 3:17

But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy.

JESUS HAS ALL WISDOM

Colossians 2:3

in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.

[4]. TRUTH

Ephesians 4:15

but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head---Christ--

1 John 1:6

If we say that we have fellowship with Him, and walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth.

JESUS IS TRUTH

John 14:6

Jesus said to him, "I am the way, the truth, and the life..."

Eph.4:21

if indeed you have heard Him and have been taught by Him, as the truth is in Jesus:

[5]. LOVE

John 17:26

"And I have declared to them Your name, and will declare it, that the love with which You loved Me may be in them, and I in them."

1 John 4:12-13

12 No one has seen God at any time. If we love one another, God abides in us, and His love has been perfected in us. 13 By this we know that we abide in Him, and He in us, because He has given us of His Spirit.

JESUS IS LOVE

1 John 4:8

...for God is love.

Revelation 1:8

"I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End," says the Lord, "who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty."

Christ is Almighty God.

All these attributes of Christ are manifested in us by our union with Him.

IDENTITY

These are FRUITS of the indwelling Spirit.

Galatians 5:22-23

22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law.

Ephesians 5:9-10

(for the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness, righteousness, and truth), 10 Proving what is acceptable to the Lord.

Those governed by the flesh produce the fruit of the flesh:

Galatians 5:19-21

19 Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, licentiousness, 20 idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, 21 envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I

also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.

Note the words of Jesus:

Matthew 7:16-20

16 You will know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes from thornbushes or figs from thistles? 17 Even so, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. 18 A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit. 19 Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. 20 Therefore by their fruits you will know them.

Luke 9:55

But He turned and rebuked them, and said, "You do not know what manner of spirit you are of."

TESTIMONY

Our testimonies attest to our Royal Priesthood through our good works. Our lives must be lived in such a way that they draw people to Christ. People are drawn not by what you say, but by how you live, how you treat others, and God’s grace upon your life.

Colossians 1:10

That you may have a walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God;

Example:

PRAISE (AS A SACRIFICE)

Hebrews 13:15

Therefore by Him let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His name.

THE ROYAL PRIESTHOOD FUNCTION OF CHRISTIANS

1 Peter 2:9

But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvellous light;

These functions or roles are the good works or righteous acts of Christians and believers.

Ephesians 2:10

For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.

Revelation 19:8

And to her it was granted to be arrayed in fine linen, clean and bright, for the fine linen is the righteous acts of the saints.

When we fulfil these roles, we are serving God with reverence and godly fear.

Hebrews 12:28

Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom which cannot be shaken, let us have grace, by which we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear.

These functions are:

· PRESERVATION

· RECONCILIATION

· INTERCESSION AND PRAYER

· EVANGELISM

· SACRIFICES

· TEACHING

· SUPPORTING [STRENGTHENING]

These functions are ANTITYPES of the functions of the Old Testament Priest.

The functions of the Royal Priesthood are fruits of testimony.

 

SOULS

Every soul is important to God. Though we cannot convince every person we meet to follow Christ our life should be the Bible that reflects God’s love, acceptance and forgiveness to them.

John 4:35-36

35 Do you not say, `There are still four months and then comes the harvest'? Behold, I say to you, lift up your eyes and look at the fields, for they are already white for harvest! 36 And he who reaps receives wages, and gathers fruit for eternal life, that both he who sows and he who reaps may rejoice together.

John 15:8

By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit; so you will be My disciples.

John 15:16

You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should remain, that whatever you ask the Father in My name He may give you.

 

Marketplace Application: Fruit = measurable outcomes. Big thinkers track fruit rather than money. Kingdom thinkers track Kingdom fruit.

Toolkit Exercise: Create a “Fruit Dashboard” with 6 categories:

FINANCIAL • REPENTANCE • UNION • IDENTITY • TESTIMONY • SOULS

 

Continually measure yourself to determine whether your standard is still on par with God’s. If not, align yourself immediately.

Bearing fruit is something we must do to be a good steward in the Kingdom of God; it demonstrates our faithfulness and trustworthiness to God. 

Grace and peace to you

Ambition Framework: Manifest the Victory of Christ

 

Manifesting the Victory of Christ in Everyday Life: A Marketplace Believer’s Blueprint

Introduction 

First Ambition: Approval of God

The second ambition of every Marketplace Believer is simple yet profound: Manifest the Victory of Christ. This is not motivational language—it is the power of your identity. Your identity gives you the confidence to step into any situation and act as a ruler. Not with pride, but with humility. Jesus demonstrated this perfectly throughout his life on earth. 

We are seated with Him as victors and need to manifest this victory in our daily lives.

This truth is anchored in Scripture:

Ephesians 2:6 “and raised us up together, and made us sit together in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus,” Romans 8:17 Now if we are children, then we are heirs… and co‑heirs with Christ…”

Through Christ, we have been crucified, buried, raised, and seated with Him. His victory is not symbolic—it is legal, spiritual, and transferable. Because He overcame, we overcome.

Three spheres where this victory must be manifested:

Victory over Satan (Righteousness) Victory over the World (Peace) Victory over the Flesh (Joy)

Let’s explore each one as a living lifestyle for believers in the marketplace.

1. Victory Over Satan — Manifesting Righteousness

Victory over Satan is not loud spiritual warfare—it is consistent righteous living.

“When we enforce the victory of Christ over Satan, we establish the RIGHTEOUSNESS of the Kingdom of God.” Dr S.Y. Govender

Scripture shows us how righteousness becomes visible:

1. Your Speech Will Be Reverential

Colossians 3:16 “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly…” 1 Timothy 4:12 “…be an example… in word, in conduct, in love…”

2. You Will Be Internally Pure

Psalm 24:4–5 “He who has clean hands and a pure heart…”

Purity is not perfection—it is alignment with the Scriptures. It is choosing God’s way in thought, motive, and action.

3. Your Works Will Be Good

Serving your enemies, refusing bribes when wordly pressure demands it, caring for the needy, giving generously, and stewarding creation are all signs of righteousness.

Romans 12:17–21 “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” Exodus 23:8 “You shall take no bribe…” Isaiah 58:7–8 “Share your bread with the hungry…”

4. You Will Remain Humble

Luke 18:13–14 “He who humbles himself will be exalted.”

5. You Will Walk in Temperance

Daniel 1:8 Daniel “purposed in his heart” not to defile himself.

6. You Will Judge with Equity

John 7:24 “Judge with righteous judgment.”

7. You Will Be Obedient

Luke 1:6 “Walking in all the commandments… blameless.”

8. You Will Be Uncompromising

Job 17:9 “He who has clean hands will be stronger and stronger.”

9. You Will Be Sincere

Proverbs 11:1 “A just weight is His delight.”

Righteousness is not a church behaviour—it is a marketplace posture.

 

2. Victory Over the World — Manifesting Peace

Jesus overcame the world, and He expects us to do the same.

John 16:33 “In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.”

Overcoming the world produces peace, the shalom of God—wholeness, stability, and divine order.

How We Overcome the World

1. We Do Not Love the World

1 John 2:15 “Do not love the world…”

2. We Do Not Get Entangled

2 Timothy 2:4 “No one engaged in warfare entangles himself…”

3. We Do Not Conform

Romans 12:2 “Be transformed by the renewing of your mind…”

4. We Die to the World

Galatians 6:14 “…the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world.”

We overcome the world by staying focused on the Kingdom assignment:

Luke 19:13“Do business till I come.” Romans 15:20 “I have made it my aim to preach the gospel…”

This beautifully develops through a sanctified life, through our habitation, obedience, and sonship—showing that peace is not passive; it is cultivated and administrated.

 

3. Victory Over the Flesh — Manifesting Joy

Jesus overcame the flesh through obedience, restraint, and surrender.

1. He Refused to Turn Stones to Bread

Matthew 4:3–4 “Man shall not live by bread alone…”

2. He Stayed on the Cross

Matthew 27:40 “Save Yourself! … come down from the cross.”

He stayed because love held Him there.

3. He Submitted to the Father’s Will

Matthew 26:39 “…not as I will, but as You will.”

We follow His example:

Colossians 3:5 “Put to death your members…” 1 Peter 2:11 “Abstain from fleshly lusts…”

Victory over the flesh produces joy, which is the strength of the Kingdom.

 

The Kingdom Revealed Through You

The Kingdom of God is righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Ghost. (Romans 14:17)

When you manifest victory over Satan, the world, and the flesh, you demonstrate the Kingdom—not in theory, but in daily life.

 

Marketplace Application

• Enter meetings as someone already seated in victory.
• Negotiate from identity, not insecurity.
• Big thinkers act like heirs, not beggars.

Your position in Christ determines your posture in the marketplace.

 

Toolkit Exercise

List three areas where you’ve been acting defeated. Rewrite each one as a victory declaration.

Example:

• Defeat: “I feel intimidated in high‑level meetings.”
• Victory: “I am seated with Christ; I enter every room with divine authority.”

May this help you to grow in your faith and become a true partaker of the kingdom. 

Grace and peace to you

Approval of God: The Ambition Framework for every marketplace believer

APPROVAL OF GOD should be the burning ambition of every believer to please God. It Is the power to Divine Alignment that would start a journey of unfathomable blessings within the Kingdom realm.

In the introduction to the AMBITION Framework, I presented eight principles that can help every believer thrive in the marketplace. Although I have not yet mastered them, I believe God placed this mnemonic, written by Dr S. Y. Govender, in my path as a practical guide for growing into my inheritance to rule and reign.

 

Approval of God is the first ambition principle of a Marketplace Believer

“It must be the ambition of every Christian to please God (obtain God's approval or favour).” Dr. S.Y. Govender.

 

In a world obsessed with visibility, applause, and achievement, the Kingdom calls us to a different pursuit — the smile of God. His approval is not earned through performance, but through obedience and alignment. And obedience and alignment are revealed through the marks of a true disciple.

 

Below are the seven pathways Scripture gives us for living a life that pleases Him—not theoretically, but practically, in the marketplace, in leadership, and in daily life.

1. DEATH TO SELF — The Foundation of Approval

Jesus made it unmistakably clear:

“Whoever does not bear his cross and come after Me cannot be My disciple.” (Luke 14:27)

To “take up the cross” was not poetic language. In Jesus’ day, anyone carrying a cross was already sentenced to death. This is the picture of discipleship: death to self-will, self-rule, self-preservation, and self-actualization.

Jesus Himself modelled it:

“Nevertheless not My will, but Yours be done.” (Luke 22:42)

Approval begins where self ends.

Marketplace Reflection

Before every decision, ask:

• Is this my will or His?
• Am I choosing comfort or obedience?
• Am I protecting myself or advancing His purpose?

 

2. IMITATING JESUS — The Pattern of Approval

Discipleship is not admiration; it is imitation.

“Christ… leaving us an example, that you should follow His steps.” (1 Peter 2:21)

Jesus sets the standard:

“Be perfect, just as your Father in heaven is perfect.” (Matthew 5:48)

Perfection here means maturity, wholeness, and alignment.

 

Marketplace Reflection

Ask:

• Am I responding like Jesus?
• Am I leading like Jesus?
• Am I loving like Jesus?

 

3. SERVANTHOOD — The Posture of Approval

Jesus washed feet—the lowest task in the household.

“If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet… you also ought to wash one another’s feet.” (John 13:14)

Servanthood is not weakness; it is Kingdom greatness. It reveals the matter of the heart. 

 

Marketplace Reflection

• Serve without expecting recognition.
• Lead without entitlement.
• Influence without superiority.

 

4. COMPLIANCE — The Response of Approval

When Jesus called the disciples, Scripture says:

“They immediately left their nets and followed Him.” (Matthew 4:20)

Immediate obedience is the mark of a heart that pleases God.

Again:

“The disciples went and did as Jesus commanded them.” (Matthew 21:6)

 

Marketplace Reflection

Delayed obedience is disobedience. Ask:

• Where have I hesitated?
• Where have I negotiated instead of obeyed?

 

5. INDWELLING WORD — The Diet of Approval

Jesus said:

“If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed.” (John 8:31)

Crowds followed Jesus when miracles were visible. But when He taught deeper truth:

“From that time many of His disciples went back and walked with Him no more.” (John 6:66)

The Word is not entertainment—it is sustenance.

“He who eats My flesh and drinks My blood abides in Me.” (John 6:56)

Eating His flesh = internalizing His Word.

 

Marketplace Reflection

• Feed on Scripture daily.
• Let the Word shape decisions, not emotions.
• Build your business on biblical principles, not trends.

 

6. PRODUCTIVITY — The Evidence of Approval

Jesus said:

“By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit.” (John 15:8)

Fruit is not optional—it is proof.

And the greatest fruit?

“Go therefore and make disciples…” (Matthew 28:19)

A disciple makes disciples.

 

Marketplace Reflection

Your productivity is not measured only in profit, but in:

• transformed lives
• Kingdom influence
• spiritual multiplication

 

7. LOVE FOR OTHER DISCIPLES — The Witness of Approval

Jesus raises the standard:

“Love one another; as I have loved you.” (John 13:34)

This is sacrificial love.

“He laid down His life for us. And we also ought to lay down our lives for the brethren.” (1 John 3:16)

Love is the badge of discipleship.

 

Marketplace Reflection

• Protect unity.
• Honor other believers.
• Lay down ego, offense, and competition.

 

8. EXCLUSIVE DEVOTION — The Offering of Approval

Jesus demands first place:

“Whoever does not forsake all that he has cannot be My disciple.” (Luke 14:33)

And:

“Anyone who wants to be my follower must love me far more…” (Luke 14:26 TLB)

This is the burnt offering—wholly consumed.

Paul echoes it:

“Present your bodies a living sacrifice…” (Romans 12:1)

 

Marketplace Reflection

• Jesus above career.
• Jesus above comfort.
• Jesus above relationships.
• Jesus above self.

 

Esther: A Marketplace Picture of Divine Approval

Esther’s life is a prophetic mirror for marketplace believers.

• She obeyed Mordecai without hesitation. Her spiritual father she knew and trusted.
• On his command, she hid her identity until the right moment.
• She submitted to preparation.
• She followed instructions precisely.
• She positioned herself for purpose, and not promotion. She waited for the right time and opportunity to present her case.

She sought the king’s approval—but God positioned her for deliverance.

How much more should we seek God’s approval, knowing His plans far exceed our own?

 

Marketplace Application: Approval in Daily Decisions

To seek God’s approval in the marketplace:

1. Make decisions based on assignment, not anxiety.

Fear-based decisions never please God.

2. Ask: “Does this deal, partnership, or opportunity please God?”

If it compromises integrity, unity, or obedience—it’s not from Him.

3. Big thinkers don’t chase everything—they chase what aligns.

Approval is found in alignment, and not in activity.

 

Final Reflection

The approval of God is not mystical. It is revealed in the life of a disciple—one who:

• dies to self
• imitates Jesus
• serves
• obeys
• abides
• bears fruit
• loves deeply
• devotes exclusively

 

This is the ambition of the marketplace believer and the path to divine favour. This is the life that pleases God.

Esther: A  picture of a person whose ambition was to please her spiritual father.

Key Themes:

· Obedience. Her obedience led her into the king's chamber. she didn't chase her own agenda. 

· Submission: She not only submitted to her spiritual father and the house of the king but she submitted to the Lord, fasting and praying for the right posture and timing. 

· Hidden identity. In a time where everyone must know everything, it is wise to keep important information hidden. the one moment it could cost you and the next moment it can become a life changer. 

· Strategic positioning is vital in the marketplace. When you are visible to the right people doors open for you. 

· Assignment over ambition: it is always God's will that directs and aligns. When we keep that our focus the results speaks for itself. 

 

Summary: Esther sought the king’s approval, but God positioned her for deliverance. Her life shows the power of obedience, preparation, and alignment—qualities every marketplace believer must cultivate.

The next blog post we will look at the second principle: 

MANIFEST THE VICTORY OF CHRIST → The Power of Identity

Grace and peace to you. 

AMBITION OF THE CHRISTIAN IN THE MARKET PLACE

 

Having ambition in life is always a good thing. It challenges you to reach for the unthinkable when everyone else thinks it’s not possible.

Yet, we can mention numerous men and women who have achieved the impossible by following their heart's desire or ambition to the fullest, and today we, in many instances, can enjoy the labour of those ambitions.

 But for a believer, ambition must be seen as a holy act to please the Heavenly Father above all else. When we do that, our earthly ambitions align with the Father’s, and we accomplish so much more with that specific grace. Because our focus is centred on Christ, everything else shifts as well. Whether your ambition is to have a family of your own, own a property or start a business, become a doctor or fireman, when we give it to God, he makes it beyond what we can imagine.

 The apostle Paul is a good example for us to study because Paul had achieved his ambition. He was a Pharisee, an elite group of religious Jews. He had confidence in the flesh (Phil. 3:4), but there came a time when he said, "But indeed I also count all things loss for the excellence of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord," (Phil. 3:8).

INTRODUCTION: WHAT DOES A BELIEVER’S AMBITION LOOK LIKE IN THE MARKETPLACE?

Every person who steps into the marketplace carries invisible ambitions. Some chase influence. Some chase financial security. Some chase recognition. Some chase power and control. But Scripture calls the believer to a higher pursuit—one that redefines success, reshapes identity, and recalibrates purpose:

“It must be the ambition of every Christian to please God (obtain God's approval or favour).”

DR S.Y. Govender.

This is not a suggestion. It is the foundation of discipleship.
In a world where applause is loud and pressure is constant; the disciple learns to tune their ear to an unfamiliar voice—the voice of the Father. His approval becomes the compass that becomes your diadem in every business you enter into. His pleasure becomes the reward. His will becomes the assignment.

And pleasing God is not mysterious. Scripture gives us a clear, practical pathway—a set of marks that reveal whether our ambition is aligned with Heaven or entangled with self.
These marks are not theoretical. They are lived. They are visible. They are measurable. And they are deeply relevant for believers who operate in business, leadership, entrepreneurship, governance, or any sphere of influence.

Therefore, it is important to understand Godly ambitions and what we should do to obtain them, and the practical ways a disciple demonstrates them.

THE MARKS OF A DISCIPLE WHO PLEASES GOD

Each principle is drawn directly from Scripture, forming a complete framework for understanding how a believer’s ambition should look like for a disciple.

1. DEATH TO SELF — The Foundation of Discipleship

Key Scriptures:

            · Luke 14:27–28

            · Matthew 16:24

            · Luke 22:42

Summary: Taking up the cross is a metaphor for dying to self-will. Jesus modelled this when He prayed, “Not My will, but Yours be done.” Approval begins where self ends.

2. IMITATING JESUS — The Pattern of Discipleship

Key Scriptures:

            ·  1 Peter 2:21

            · Matthew 5:48

Summary: Discipleship is not admiration—it is imitation. We follow His steps, His character, His compassion, His obedience.

3. SERVANTHOOD — The Posture of Discipleship

Key Scriptures:

            ·   John 13:13–17

Summary: Jesus washed feet. He showed that greatness in the Kingdom is measured by service, not status.

4. COMPLIANCE — The Response of Discipleship

Key Scriptures:

            ·  Matthew 4:19–20

            ·  Matthew 21:5–6

Summary: The disciples obeyed immediately. Compliance reveals trust, surrender, and alignment with God’s will.

5. INDWELLING WORD — The Diet of Discipleship

Key Scriptures:

            · John 8:31

            · John 6:56

            · John 6:66

Summary: Abiding in the Word is the mark of a true disciple. Many followed Jesus for miracles but deserted Him when the Word demanded depth.

6. PRODUCTIVITY — The Evidence of Discipleship

Key Scriptures:

            · John 15:8

            · Matthew 28:19

Summary: Fruitfulness glorifies God. The greatest fruit is making disciples—multiplying what Christ has formed in us.

7. LOVE FOR OTHER DISCIPLES — The Witness of Discipleship

Key Scriptures:

            ·  John 13:34–35

            ·  1 John 3:16

Summary: Jesus raises the standard: love one another as He loved us—sacrificially, selflessly, completely.

8. EXCLUSIVE DEVOTION — The Offering of Discipleship

Key Scriptures:

            · Luke 14:33

            · Luke 14:26 (TLB)

            · Romans 12:1

Summary: A disciple loves Jesus above possessions, relationships, and even their own life. This is the burnt offering—wholly given.

 

Marketplace Application: How to Seek Godly Ambition in Daily Decisions

            · Make decisions based on assignment, not anxiety. Fear-based choices never please God.

            ·  Ask: “Does this deal, partnership, or opportunity magnify God’s purpose for me?” If it compromises obedience, integrity, or unity—it’s not from Him.

            ·  Kingdom thinkers don’t chase everything—they chase what aligns. Ambition is found in alignment, and not activity.

THE MARKETPLACE MINISTER’S AMBITION TOOLKIT

A Kingdom ambition and big-thinking guide for believers in business, leadership, and influence

The Core Premise: Kingdom Ambition is Godly Thinking. Not to think like the World but as God thinks. A global reach that surpasses borders.

Kingdom Ambition defines the believer’s pursuit:

Success is not determined by intelligence, background, or luck—but by the knowledge of the word and practising doctrine daily.

Together, they form a single truth:

Kingdom ambition sets your direction. Wisdom sets your altitude.

This toolkit helps believers think at Kingdom scale while acting with biblical integrity.

The AMBITION Framework (Biblical Foundation)

There are seven principles that we will look at.

They are:

            · Approval of God

            ·  Manifest the victory of Christ

            · Bear fruit

            · Imitate Jesus

            · Tame the tongue

            · Inhabit the secret place

            · Oracle of God

            · Nurture the Body of Christ

Each ambition is a marketplace principle which will be looked at individually in the next few blog posts.

I trust that this short series will help you in your ambition and give you a clear direction which way to follow.

Grace and peace to you.