The scripture tells us “A good name is more desirable than great riches; to be esteemed is better than silver or gold” (Proverbs 22:1). We know that honor and good reputation are valuable. With them we gain friends, trust and a host of opportunity. A good name is priceless. However, a good name does not come without a price.
Dependability, consistency, sacrifice, love, generosity and faithfulness are among the many qualities needed to acquire a truly good name and maintain a good name. Those are not obtained through money or simple desire to have them. They are the fruit of good character. I have seen many people of good character who have obtained these over long periods of time by sheer will and determination. They do not know Jesus Christ or have the abiding Spirit of Christ in them. But, they have a good name. Yet, even in the best of these circumstances, what lies beneath the sheer will and determination leaks out occasionally through moments of frustration, anger or depression.
The only sustainable way to have a good name that represents the Best Name (Jesus Christ) is through good character built by God, not by human effort. In Christianity, we have a term for that. It is called “holiness.” Holiness is God infusing His perfect character into our imperfect lives, shaping us and transforming us to become more like Him (Ephesians 4:24). When He implants His Spirit in our lives, we have less muck inside of us to come out and besmirch our good name and his Holy Name.
Holiness is godly character that transforms us through and through so that all of our words, thoughts and actions are taken captive for Christ and by Him (2 Corinthians 10:5). The result is more than a good name. It goes beyond the selfish goal of having a good name alone and the esteem that it earns us. Holiness frees us to live in victory without fear of slipping. Holiness then helps others to see what is possible for people redeemed by Jesus Christ. We become free from striving. Others benefit from our freedom and genuine testimony and help. We no longer direct people to our good name, but to God’s glory (2 Corinthians 3:18).
Be thankful if you have a good name. However, I am thankful for much more. A good name, produced by the holiness produces good fruit- another good that should not be overlooked- fruit that will last. You will never fully see and enjoy it until you find yourself before the throne and see it through the eyes of the Holy One from whom you have your good name.