“A good name is more desirable than great riches; to be esteemed is better than silver or gold.”
Proverbs 22:1
What is the primary goal of life? What should we be aiming for? Our world presents us with an array of choices when it comes to life goals: wealth, happiness, security, influence, beauty, and so forth. Advertisers dangle their products in front of us constantly, guaranteeing fulfillment in life if we choose what they are offering.
But Solomon is not talking about good brand names. He advises his children to pursue a good name for themselves—a reputation marked by righteousness, honor, and wisdom. Wealth may result from living wisely, but it ought never to be pursued as the end goal of life.
Still, even our best efforts to establish a good reputation for ourselves will fall short. The good name which is more desirable than great riches is that of Jesus, the One whose righteousness has been granted to us. We live to glorify Him, and because of His good name, we are esteemed greatly. He calls us His own, assuring us we are precious in His sight. Seek after the only name under heaven by which we may be saved, the name of Jesus.
But Solomon is not talking about good brand names. He advises his children to pursue a good name for themselves—a reputation marked by righteousness, honor, and wisdom. Wealth may result from living wisely, but it ought never to be pursued as the end goal of life.
Still, even our best efforts to establish a good reputation for ourselves will fall short. The good name which is more desirable than great riches is that of Jesus, the One whose righteousness has been granted to us. We live to glorify Him, and because of His good name, we are esteemed greatly. He calls us His own, assuring us we are precious in His sight. Seek after the only name under heaven by which we may be saved, the name of Jesus.
Scripture Focus
Philippians 2:1-11
Insight
Proverbs 21:21 says that pursuing righteousness and love will bring life, prosperity, and honor. Jesus is your righteousness. Jesus is love. Pursue Him!
Bible In A Year
- Jeremiah 37-38
- Psalm 120
- 1 Corinthians 14
