Reputation Appraisal

Read Proverbs 22

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

Proverbs 22:1

Today’s proverb offers us one practical application of yesterday’s wise saying. Jesus spoke of the dangers of selfish ambition and challenged his disciples to have a godly ambition that intentionally seeks to please God, even to the point of bearing a cross (Matthew 16:24).

Here, godly ambition makes the choice between a good reputation and great riches. Both can be pursued, but only one has lasting value. Only one will prove itself ours beyond this life. Riches will stay behind, no matter what we sacrificed to gain them. Why should we choose what we will have to leave behind when we can choose something of eternal value?

Godly ambition aims high. Godly ambition sets its sights on living the kind of life that will create a good reputation with God. If that can be accomplished, everything else will fall into place. Ultimately, this great purpose in life becomes possible when we realize that God will actually help us gain his high esteem.

A WORD FOR TODAY

Practice godly ambition.

Dear Lord, help me to intentionally seek to make choices that please you. I want to have a good reputation with you!