23
Apr '25
Having a Good Name
23
Apr '25
Introduction: Is having a “good name” good or bad? Tell me why or why not. As a Pastor, I will get calls occasionally, like today, from Employers looking for information about a job applicant. But really, a person’s lifestyle along with their testimony tells the story. What is your story? Well Solomon, inspired by the Holy Spirit, writes about having a “good name.” What does he mean about having a “good name”?
A “good name” is the word שֵׁם which means “mark, memorial of individuality, honor, authority. It can even mean character.” (Prov 22:1) – “A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favour rather than silver and gold.”
Contrary to the world’s opinion, character counts in the sight of God. For instance, this is what God said about Job (Job 1:8), “And the LORD said unto Satan, Hast thou considered my servant Job, that there is none like him in the earth, a perfect and an upright man, one that feareth God, and escheweth evil?” Don’t miss that! Almighty God takes notice of His servants. What would He say about us?
This is what God said about Abraham, (Gen 18:17-19) “And the LORD said, Shall I hide from Abraham that thing which I do; Seeing that Abraham shall surely become a great and mighty nation, and all the nations of the earth shall be blessed in him? For I know him, that he will command his children and his household after him, and they shall keep the way of the LORD, to do justice and judgment; that the LORD may bring upon Abraham that which he hath spoken of him.” Powerful statements about Abraham, huh? This should tell us that our Lord has our best interest in mind. Basically, He entrust us with family, ministry and ultimately legacy.
This is what is said about Shunammite woman (2 Kings 4:8), “And it fell on a day, that Elisha passed to Shunem, where was a great woman; and she constrained him to eat bread. And so it was, that as oft as he passed by, he turned in thither to eat bread.” The inspired Word of God declares this woman was a “GREAT” woman. Why? Because our Lord knew her character.
Here is what Solomon wrote about a virtuous woman, (Prov 31:28-31) “Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her. Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all. Favor is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the LORD, she shall be praised. Give her of the fruit of her hands; and let her own works praise her in the gates.” Hey, she’s not perfect if you are wondering! But she is a blessing!! That is why she is blessed
Conclusion: The purpose of this devotion is not to bring guilt or condemnation, instead it is to encourage those reading to stay focused on leaving a lasting legacy. That being said, “Having a Good Name” is doing that….. all for God’s glory!
Love y’all,
Dr. Randy Reese