Proverbs 22:1 A good name is more desirable than great riches; to be esteemed is better than silver or gold.
We sing that Jesus has a Good Name – a beautiful name. Even though he was put to death as a criminal. The truth of the matter is that no-one could find fault with Jesus. How He lived, spoke, treated others. So, His enemies spoke lies to get Him killed.
Names are important – whether naming a child and finding a name for a new business. The name will influence people.
However, Jesus taught us to avoid aiming to be liked by everyone or go too far in pleasing everyone.:
Luke 6:26 Woe to you when everyone speaks well of you, for that is how their ancestors treated the false prophets.
Having a good name does not imply that everyone will like you!
But, do I have a good name? Does what I say carry the weight of a good name? Or does my life affect the value people put on my words? So, we are advised to live so that our name is good, reliable, trusted. More influential than wealth!
Jesus has given us His Spirit to help us do this.
