Ecclesiastes 7:1 (KJV)
A good name is better than precious ointment; and the day of death than the day of one’s birth.
The worth of the honor that comes with possessing a good name surpasses all the riches and joys this world can offer. Our name and reputation are daily choices. They are assets far more important than riches. We must build and preserve them more than any other project or goal. A good name is a significant factor in destiny fulfillment. In other words, character affects our destiny. A good name is also a trigger for the blessing of God. The one with a good character does not beg to be blessed because to have a good character is to be blessed. A good name builds trust and integrity and provides more value in the present and the future. A good name saves us from disgrace and the devil’s trap. It also wins people to God. 1 Peter 2:12 says, “Be careful to live properly among your unbelieving neighbors. Then even if they accuse you of doing wrong, they will see your honorable behavior, and they will give honor to God when he judges the world.” To have a good name is to be someone of honor, someone true to their word, someone who excels at what they do and shows godly character in all situations.
In this life, perception determines reception. How we are perceived determines how people receive us. As Christians, what do people think when they hear our name? Are they gracious, godly, diligent, and faithful? Is our name sweet to their ears and thoughts? How do they speak of us to others? We cannot ignore these questions and be wise because our reputation and relationships are vital to our lives. While many chase financial and professional success with all their might, Christians must value their reputation and relationships more than these other goals. Many cannot reach their destiny because anywhere they go, what people perceive is disrespect, rebellion, unfaithfulness, and an uncommitted attitude. Many have relied on questionable practices and get quick rich schemes. They’ve abused their name and reputation to gain a lot of money. Thus, they may be rich in the things of this world, but their name is mud to those who know them. Some have no outstanding virtues, so they pass through life without honor or favor, which shows a lack of diligence and priority in pursuing godliness and righteousness. It’s a good idea to think about what kind of legacy we are leaving for our family, friends, and neighbors. From God’s perspective, it’s not the fame, our resumé, or the amount of money we’ve accumulated that matters but rather the kind of life we have lived. Joseph and Daniel were highly regarded even as captives in foreign lands for their excellent spirits and blameless lives.
Beloved, a good name will do what money cannot do. Your character is a precious treasure you should enhance daily through wise choices. It is essential to prioritize keeping your name clear of any offenses. Consider it a blessed privilege and a duty to make every effort to maintain a good reputation in life. Your future is guaranteed when people perceive faithfulness, dependability, reliability, humility, sincerity, honesty, and commitment anywhere your name is mentioned. Your name goes where you have yet to go; your reputation travels ahead of you. So, work on your character if you are interested in your destiny; your reputation facilitates or frustrates your portion. As a believer in Christ, choose a perfect name, even as His Name is perfect in Heaven and Earth. Everything you do every day contributes toward your name. No matter how small or large, the accumulated effect of your words and actions combine to give God and men an appraisal of your character and faithfulness. Therefore, your solemn duty is to keep your heart, lips, and feet with all prudent diligence. Examine your life and identify inconsistencies in your character and discharge your responsibilities. Ask God for forgiveness and determine to be faithful at all times regardless of the prevailing condition per time. Remember to choose today to make this Proverb a high goal and live according to it.
O Lord, erase every negative perception of people about me. Give me the grace to pursue a good name that glorifies Your Name in Jesus’ Name.