Blog Journeys of a Lifelong Learner

Proverbs 22:1

A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches,
and favor is better than silver or gold.

It is honor that is of lasting significance; monetary means can irrevocably vanish. Wealth is temporary at best. Reputation endures. The legacy of a godly man is a wonderful thing. This blessing must be diligently sought and pursued by all young men. Older men ought also to seek it. (Psalm 1)

What is the name above all names? It is that of Christ, the only one by whom men are saved and the one through whom men come to the knowledge of the truth. (Philippians 2, 1 Timothy 2)

The end of the selection of a good name is not the prideful self-promotion of one who has a good reputation; it is a life of devotion to God as demonstrated by a complete trust in the provision of God for His people. (Matthew 5-7)

All who are in Christ have every spiritual blessing, but any treasures possessed by Christ's enemies can only serve to increase their culpability for their failure to honor God. The praise of God is far more precious than the possession of earthly valuables. (Ephesians 1, Romans 1)

The one who embraces the pursuit of a good name can confidently trust in the promised blessings which God imparts to the upright in heart. God honors the humble. God blesses those who walk in righteousness. God delivers the righteous from their enemies; the wicked know no such deliverance. (Psalm 31, Psalm 32)

Whose praise do you seek? Men are impossible to please, but God delights in His people. (Psalm 149)

Favor cannot be overemphasized. Influence is far superior to independence. Autonomy is a myth; collaboration is unavoidable. One who tarnishes his reputation through impropriety will be powerless to effect positive changes; one who builds favor by a track record of excellence and dependability will, in time, exert significant influence. Are you on the road to influence, or on the road to isolation? Wisdom is true wealth; money is meaningless by comparison. (Proverbs 1-3)

Your daily pattern of life reveals what you are choosing: a good name, or quick wealth. What story does your conduct tell?