A Good Name

1 Choose a good reputation over great riches; being held in high esteem is better than silver or gold.

17 Listen to the words of the wise; apply your heart to my instruction.
18 For it is good to keep these sayings in your heart and always ready on your lips.
19 I am teaching you today—yes, you— so you will trust in the Lord.
20 I have written thirty sayings[b] for you, filled with advice and knowledge.
21 In this way, you may know the truth and take an accurate report to those who sent you.
22 Don’t rob the poor just because you can, or exploit the needy in court.
23 For the Lord is their defender. He will ruin anyone who ruins them.

When I asked friends to share a favorite proverb from Scripture, a rightly proud mother shared her son’s business motto: the words of today’s verse. How appropriate! In a business world where large profit margins seem to be the only objective, a commitment to having a good name is most commendable. I also know this is not just a slogan designed to gain clients. Our friend’s son demonstrates this motto in every area of his life.

In a world with numerous temp­ta­tions to cut corners or deliver less than promised, it’s vitally important that followers of Christ conduct their business with integrity. The temptation to seek gold or silver—the profits—as our top priority is the same today as it was in Solomon’s day. Greater profits may come by way of dishonest weights, selling a sick animal, falsifying records, and more. But when you get caught, your business will also be ruined.

Too often our testimony is negated by the way we do business. Too often we put a Christian symbol on our business card and yet deal dishonestly. Our good intentions and promises must be followed up with actions of integrity—in all we do. Christ’s name is at stake, not merely our reputation.

Jesus calls us to honesty. Honor­ing him, we can sing, “Lord, I lift your name on high,” and mean it. Are you honoring God in all you do?

Lord Jesus, empower us richly with your Spirit so that we may live lives of integrity in all our relationships. We ask this in your name. Amen.