A GOOD NAME

“Mr. Edison,” said his secretary, “we just had a customer call and complain about a defective battery that we manufactured.” Surprised at the news, Thomas Edison wondered what might have caused the problem. Realizing that other batteries would have the same problem, he wondered what he should do. Discouraged, but not defeated, he began a large advertising campaign, asking people to return their defective batteries for a complete refund. The amount involved in the transaction was staggering. However, the money he lost meant nothing to him after he compared the cost of the recall to the value he placed on his name and reputation.

It is critical for Christians to have an honorable and respected name. Whatever we do, whatever we say, or wherever we go, we are representatives of the Lord Jesus Christ. If we fail to live lives of grace and beauty, honesty and integrity, purity and righteousness, our witness will be disregarded, our motives questioned, and our testimony impaired. And, when that occurs, God’s name is dishonored, and His message disgraced.

Living righteous lives will eliminate our need to worry about being exposed or not living up to what God expects of us. He calls us to live lives that are consistent with His Word, to follow Him and His eternal directions carefully. Great riches are worthless if we get them dishonestly or by deceiving others. “Earning” a good name by honoring God is worth much more than money.

Prayer:  Father, we ask You to work in us and through us so that we may represent You faithfully in all we do and say. May we earn a good name to honor You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today:      Choose a good reputation over great riches; being held in high esteem is better than silver or gold. Proverbs 22:1