A Good Reputation

Write From My Heart

August 13, 2020

A Good Reputation

Philemon v. 7 (NLT)

Your love has given me much joy and comfort, my brother, for your kindness has often refreshed the hearts of God’s people.

Proverbs 22:1 (NLT)

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

            It can be amusing when someone unknown to us is introduced and says, “Oh yes, I’ve heard a lot about you.” Sometimes we sheepishly grin and reply, “I hope it’s all good!”  That moment reinforces the concept that true character is something you are when no one is watching. Our reputations are built both during times we are aware and during times we are unaware. As Christians, we must remember that others are watching our reactions and responses to life’s daily challenges. Not only this, but others also watch to see how we interact with one another. For those of us involved in any type of social media we have the additional caution that what we “like” or “love” or any posted/reposted content such as pictures and comments are also clues to our identity and reputation.

            The apostle Paul found great encouragement in Philemon as one who often refreshed the hearts of God’s people. Sometimes I wonder if that can also be said of us? Are we known for refreshing the hearts of others? King Solomon, a man gifted with true wisdom and understanding, taught us to place a higher value on having a good reputation than riches, silver, or gold. Is our concern for our reputation a priority in all we say, do, think, act, or in how we react?

            I suppose on a personal level this topic is on my mind today for a special reason. Today I remember my big brother, Tim. This would have been his birthday, although he has been gone now for eleven years. I miss him greatly. But I remember him as someone with a truly honorable reputation. In his latter years, he struggled for every breath, yet was determined to do what he could to make the dreams and wishes of others come true. I will always treasure the memories of our Lighthouse tour of coastal Maine, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island. He made a dream of mine a reality without concern for his own condition. He was a man who helped others in ways most people never even knew. But above all, he honored God and taught his family to do so as well. There could be no better reputation than for someone who refreshed the hearts of others!

            And so it comes full circle down to each and every one of us today. When people hear our name, what is the first thought that comes to their mind? Do they recognize us as someone who refreshes the hearts of God’s people?