Thought for Tuesday, January 3rd

January 3, 2012

A Good Reputation

A good name is better than precious ointment;…

Ecclesiastes 7:1

A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favour rather than silver and gold.

Proverbs 27:1

Quote of the Day

“Reputation is what men say about you on your tombstone;

Character is what angels say about you before the throne of God”

-          William Hersey Davis

Today’s Thoughts and Insights

 

Not all, but many folks spend a great deal of time worrying about what other people think of them.  We often wonder and stress over what other’s opinions are or how they took something we may have said.  I realize that we each have different levels of attention we give to such deliberations; but the point remains, for the most part, we want others to think well of us.

As Christians, we should be more focused on what God thinks of us.

If we would live as to garner God’s approval on our words and deeds then I think our reputation with others would more than take care of itself.

If we could but be as forgiving as God is to us: if we could love with a love that is even half as great as the love God has for us:  if we could be more patient, tolerant, compassionate, meek, humble, gentle, longsuffering and kind, bearing the fruits of God’s Spirit in word and deed as we interact with others; it is my opinion; we would have the greatest and most desired reputation of all.  And that would be a reputation that is well pleasing to God.

Today’s Prayer

My Father, which is in Heaven, you are amazing, forgiving, dependable and worthy of all glory, honor and praise.  As I go about the affairs of my day, may my thoughts and hearts desire to be to please you and live a life worthy of your approval.

“Reputation is made in a moment; character is built in a lifetime.”

-          Anonymous

“Let my Lifesong sing to You”

- from ‘Lifesong’ by Casting Crowns