GOOD NAME

A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favour rather than silver and gold – Proverbs 22:1

A name is a mark of identity or an emblem of individuality. A good name really speaks to your integrity, reputation, honour, and inner character. God often gave people new names in alignment with His good purposes for their lives (Gen 17:5,15; 32:27-28, 35:10; Neh 9:7). He promised to give to the eunuchs who pleased Him and respected His covenant, “a place and a name better than of sons and daughters” (Isa.56:4,5). Better than all the wealth in the world is what people think when your name comes up. It is superior in value to money! Here are three practical reasons why this is so:

1. A good name provides stability: It inspires people’s trust in you, which becomes a stabilizing factor in your relationship with them. They know what to expect from you and can lean on your decisions with firm assurance, knowing they were made with pure motives. Those whose names have been damaged or tarnished have a difficult time building trust. Irrespective of their great wealth or possessions, their motives will always be questioned or suspected. Money cannot give one a good name, but a good name can get one money. Hence, if one does not have both, it is better to have a good name.

2. A good name is enduring: worldly riches are fleeting and uncertain; here one minute and gone the next (1Tim.6:17). Riches are transient; at death, no one can take even a bit out of the world. A good name is however enduring. Many men and women of history are still being spoken of in a positive light. How will your legacy be remembered and portrayed by family, friends or colleagues once you are gone? Will they focus on the value of your good name or only remember your passion for pleasure and pursuit of possessions?

3. A good name attracts loving favour (Pro.22:1b): It is an invaluable asset, an investment of inestimable price. Integrity procures a blessed posterity (Pro.20:7). People will appreciate you for showing kindness, mercy and attention to their needs. They will stand up in your support and defence when you face unwarranted attacks. Riches are not evil and there is nothing wrong with having them; but a good name is better than all the world’s riches. It provides more value in time and eternity.

What response does the mention of your name engender?  Is your name in good standing with neighbours and before the Lord? Or, have you lost sight of your integrity in the pursuit of riches? You may need to re-cultivate your name by identifying totally with the Name of Jesus! It is in choosing to be identified with and by that Name that you have chosen not just a good name, but the Good Name. When all is said and done, His is the only Name that truly matters (Phil.2:9-10; Rev. 3:12).