Proverbs 22:1
A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches, loving
favor rather than silver and gold.
Bible Reading
for a Year [bible]psalm118[/bible]; [bible]ijohn2[/bible]; [bible]ezeki42-43[/bible]
Visitors to a zoo were outraged when the “African lion”
started barking instead of roaring. Zoo staff said they had disguised a Tibetan
mastiff—a very large dog—as a lion because they could not afford the real
thing. Needless to say, the zoo’s reputation was sullied and people will think
twice before visiting it.
Reputation is fragile; once it’s damaged, it’s hard to
restore. It is not uncommon to sacrifice a good reputation on the altar of
power, prestige, or profit. This too could be our story. Scripture encourages
us: “A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches” (Prov. 22:1). God is
telling us that true value must be placed not in what we have but in who we
are.
Ancient Greek philosopher Socrates said, “The way to gain
a good reputation is to endeavor to be what you desire to appear.” As followers
of Jesus, we bear His name. Because of His love for us, we strive to walk
worthy of Him, reflecting His likeness in our words and deeds.
When we fail, He picks us up again by His love. By our
example, others around us will be led to praise the God who has redeemed and
transformed us (Matt. 5:16)—for the name of the Lord is worthy of glory, honor,
and all praise.
The purest
treasure mortal times afford is a spotless reputation. —Shakespeare