It is not a sin to be ambitious. In fact, we ought to strive to do our best in every situation. One consequence of doing things with excellence could well be promotions, awards, and recognition. Nonetheless, while we need not be surprised at the honors we receive after having done our best, we must never yield to the temptation to push ourselves into the limelight.
Some people can’t wait for God to honor them. Instead, they naturally gravitate to center stage. Positions of power allure them. They can’t help but make their way to the forefront, and the microphone. This can be a troubling tendency.
It is one thing for others to recognize our efforts and to reward us. It is quite another for us to blow our own horn and to grasp at honor and position. Those who push their way into prominent positions may suffer the disheartening experience of being rudely ushered out of those same places. Such honors and distinguished assignments are hollow if we have to manipulate our way in to them.
Far better to humbly and discreetly do your best, then wait for others to notice and reward your work. Such rewards can truly be savored, for you know they came honestly and genuinely, and not through your own plotting and scheming.