“A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches, loving favor rather than silver and gold.” Proverbs 22:1. We learn from the Proverbs of Solomon son of David that having a good name speaks a bit about a person’s integrity. Indeed, having a good name is a subject worth writing about because having a good name is indeed the anti-thesis of corruption, a terrible condition.
When you have a good name, you achieve stability and build a level of trust in your community. People around you start trusting you and your actions because of your reputation of honesty. Being a man of integrity, incorruptible, having a good name translates into others having the confidence that your actions aren’t self serving but pure in intention and sincere in heart bringing them rest and security that nobility of character is alive and well, indeed. Dignity!
Let’s not forget what is written in Titus 2:7, “Show yourself in all respects to be a model of good works, and in your teaching show integrity, dignity.” “The integrity of the upright guides them, but the crookedness of the treacherous destroys them.” Proverbs 11:3. The moment that people don’t trust you, no matter how many riches you may have… trouble finds a way to be your closest neighbor.
When we have a good name, our name transcends many generations and won’t be ever forgotten or lost… differently from material possessions. How would you like to be remembered as? A man of integrity whose values were incorruptible or anything otherwise? Remember: Your character as a parent is emulated by your children. We have an influence in the surrounding people who chooses to be around us, especially our children.
Show kindness and mercy, along with carrying a good name that despises corruption. I bet that a good incorruptible name will serve as your shield against the many unjust attacks that you will receive in your life. An army of fierce soldiers will be ready to defend you at all cost because of your good name.
“Blessed is the man against whom the Lord counts no iniquity, and in whose spirit there is no deceit.” Psalms 32:2. “A good name is better than fine perfume.” Ecclesiastes 7:1. Choose to have and maintain a good name for all eternity. Now and forever more.