What does the Bible say about seeking great things for oneself?

In Jeremiah 45:5, God speaks to Barak, instructing him not to seek great things for himself, highlighting the importance of humility and submission to God's will. This command implies that our focus should not be on personal elevation or worldly success, but rather on honoring God and His purposes. The call is not simply to avoid ambition but to redirect our desires toward God's glory and righteousness, recognizing that He knows what we truly need. This aligns with the teachings of Christ in Matthew 6:33, where He encourages believers to seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, assuring them that all necessary things will be provided.

Additionally, the concept of humility is further emphasized in the New Testament, as seen in James 4:10 and 1 Peter 5:6, which encourage believers to humble themselves before God, who will exalt them in due time. The overarching theme is that in serving God and prioritizing His kingdom, we find true purpose and fulfillment, which far surpasses any temporal achievements we might seek for ourselves.