The first words off the page of my Bible this morning were respect and reputation.
So, why am I using a picture of a wallet filled with money?
A large part of our society is striving for success. There is nothing wrong with that. In fact, the Lord desires for us to prosper and have good success.
“Always remember what is written in that book of law. Speak about that book and study it day and night. Then you can be sure to obey what is written there. If you do this, you will be wise and successful in everything you do. 9 Remember, I commanded you to be strong and brave. Don’t be afraid, because the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:8-9 ERV
The key is the phrase good success. If success is obtained in one area of life but destroys another it can’t be considered good. There are people all across our country that are gaining success in their careers and businesses but loosing their families. That’s not good.
“A good reputation and respect are worth much more than silver and gold.” Proverbs 22:1 CEV
I went to a job interview once and was asked if I saw something that I thought was unethical being done in the company, what would I do. I gave an honest answer and said I would ask someone about it. I couldn’t just stand by and ignore something like that.
I didn’t get the job.
The Lord sees us as valuable. He treasures us, He takes delight in us as His children.
“ I tell you not to worry about your life. Don’t worry about having something to eat, drink, or wear. Isn’t life more than food or clothing? 26 Look at the birds in the sky! They don’t plant or harvest. They don’t even store grain in barns. Yet your Father in heaven takes care of them. Aren’t you worth more than birds?” Matthew 6:25-26 CEV
The Lord wants us to be more concerned about having a godly reputation and gaining respect than obtaining wealth. Making the right choices, setting the right priorities will bring everything else in line.
“Don’t worry and say, ‘What will we eat?’ or ‘What will we drink?’ or ‘What will we wear?’ 32 That’s what those people who don’t know God are always thinking about. Don’t worry, because your Father in heaven knows that you need all these things. 33 What you should want most is God’s kingdom and doing what he wants you to do. Then he will give you all these other things you need.” Matthew 6:31-33 ERV
When making the big decisions we should ask if this will cost me my good reputation, the respect of my friends and family and if it reflects godly character. If the answer isn’t a strong yes then we should drop that and do something else.
“Respect and serve the Lord! Your reward will be wealth, a long life, and honor.” Proverbs 22:4 CEV
Our Father is watching over for us and He wants our reputation to be protected.