The Prized Possession
A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favor rather than silver and gold.
Proverbs 22:1
My father taught me that many evils may befall me during my lifetime but there was one thing that no one could ever take from me – my reputation. I may lose my wealth, my health, fame or family due to external circumstances, but nothing could destroy my reputation but me. While others may slander me, eventually my “true colors” would shine through. My reputation could only be tarnished by my actions. However, once I gave it up, it might never be restored.
As a teenager, I often struggled with this responsibility and admit it influenced many of my decisions to seek the “high road” in challenging situations. And I am still amazed by senior adults who have an untarnished reputation – what an honor!
But many of us have made that split-second decision that has negatively impacted us for the rest of our life. It feels that everyone is watching our every action and talking behind our backs. What a burden we carry with the guilt of knowing the infinite details of our indiscretion. Is there no reprieve for a former foolish decision? Yes, there is!
Paul writes in Romans 2:11, “For there is no respect of persons with God.” What a comfort to know that He still loves us, no matter how poor a decision we have made and is ready to forgive us! David provides us an excellent example of a prayer for forgiveness in Psalms 51.
But what will others think? Rest assured that others will outwardly see the change that God has wrought within your heart!
Proverbs 22:1
My father taught me that many evils may befall me during my lifetime but there was one thing that no one could ever take from me – my reputation. I may lose my wealth, my health, fame or family due to external circumstances, but nothing could destroy my reputation but me. While others may slander me, eventually my “true colors” would shine through. My reputation could only be tarnished by my actions. However, once I gave it up, it might never be restored.
As a teenager, I often struggled with this responsibility and admit it influenced many of my decisions to seek the “high road” in challenging situations. And I am still amazed by senior adults who have an untarnished reputation – what an honor!
But many of us have made that split-second decision that has negatively impacted us for the rest of our life. It feels that everyone is watching our every action and talking behind our backs. What a burden we carry with the guilt of knowing the infinite details of our indiscretion. Is there no reprieve for a former foolish decision? Yes, there is!
Paul writes in Romans 2:11, “For there is no respect of persons with God.” What a comfort to know that He still loves us, no matter how poor a decision we have made and is ready to forgive us! David provides us an excellent example of a prayer for forgiveness in Psalms 51.
But what will others think? Rest assured that others will outwardly see the change that God has wrought within your heart!
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