What other scriptures emphasize the significance of a good name or reputation? Fragrance of a Name – Songs 1:3 “The fragrance of your perfume is pleasing; your name is like perfume poured out. No wonder the maidens adore you.” Just as perfume fills a room, a name—one’s reputation—spreads far and wide. Scripture keeps echoing this truth. Wisdom’s Voice: Old Testament Foundations • Proverbs 22:1 – “A good name is more desirable than great riches; favor is better than silver and gold.” • Ecclesiastes 7:1 – “A good name is better than fine perfume, and the day of death better than the day of birth.” • Ruth 3:11 – “My fellow townsmen know that you are a woman of noble character.” These verses place reputation above wealth, scent, and even life milestones. Examples in Israel’s Story • Joseph (Genesis 41:38-39) rose because Pharaoh and all Egypt recognized “a man in whom is the Spirit of God.” • Daniel (Daniel 6:4) was found “faithful, neither corrupt nor negligent,” silencing critics. A consistent good name survives culture shifts and pagan courts. Jesus and the Gospels • Matthew 5:16 – “Let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” Our reputation becomes a spotlight aimed at God’s glory. Early-Church Standards for Leaders • Acts 6:3 – “Select from among you seven men confirmed to be full of the Spirit and wisdom.” • 1 Timothy 3:2 – “An overseer, then, must be above reproach…” • 1 Timothy 3:7 – “He must have a good reputation with outsiders…” Character counted as much as gifting when choosing servants and shepherds. Every Believer’s Call • Titus 2:7-8 – “Show integrity, dignity, and sound speech that is above reproach.” • 1 Peter 2:12 – “Conduct yourselves with such honor among the Gentiles… that they may see your good deeds and glorify God.” • Philippians 2:15 – “Blameless and pure… shining as lights in the world.” • Colossians 4:5 – “Act wisely toward outsiders, redeeming the time.” • 1 Thessalonians 4:12 – “Behave properly toward outsiders and be dependent on no one.” A good name isn’t optional; it’s everyday discipleship. Personal Commendations • 3 John 12 – “Demetrius has received a good testimony from everyone, and from the truth itself.” Scripture calls out individuals whose reputation aligned with truth—encouraging us to do likewise. Putting It Together From Solomon’s love song to Paul’s pastoral letters, God keeps underscoring how priceless a trustworthy name is. Wealth fades, beauty dims, but the aroma of a godly reputation lingers—drawing others to the Lord whose name is above every name. |
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