A Good Reputation

In Ecclesiastes 7:1, King Solomon wrote that a good name is:

“Better than precious ointment”

In ancient times, precious ointments (fragrant oils and perfumes) were symbols of great wealth. Similarly, Proverbs 22:1 states that a good name is better than great riches.

While money can provide comfort, sacrificing your character to get rich is a terrible trade. A “good name” means having a solid reputation—being known for honesty and doing the right thing. We must work hard to build a good reputation and protect it from being ruined.

Be an Example to Others

The apostle Paul told Timothy that, even though he was young, he must set a good example for other believers (1 Timothy 4:12). People will respect you, regardless of your age, when you live like Jesus did.

When you act with integrity, you bring honor to Christ. Here are a few ways to show others who Jesus is:

• Tell the truth: Be honest, even when it is difficult or might get you into trouble.
• Show love: Look for ways to help and support the people around you.
• Show kindness: Treat others with respect and patience.

If we choose to lie, steal, or act cruelly, we do not bring honor to Jesus. Instead, we bring shame to His name and hurt our own reputation.

Protecting Your Good Name

A good reputation takes a lifetime to build, but it can be destroyed in a single moment.

Wealthy people spend money on security systems, safes, and guards to protect their silver and gold. Because your reputation is far more valuable than riches, you must be extremely careful to protect it from damage.

Solomon compared a good name to a pleasant-smelling ointment. In contrast, he warned in Ecclesiastes 10:1 that a bad reputation is like dead flies that make a perfumer’s oil smell terrible. Just a small amount of foolishness can ruin an otherwise good life.

The Impact of Your Choices

Having a good reputation brings honor to you, your parents, and Jesus. On the other hand, being known for bad behavior hurts your parents’ feelings, misrepresents Christ, and damages your own self-worth.

• If your reputation is currently good: Keep up the great work! Be careful not to make careless choices that could ruin it.
• If your reputation has been damaged: Do not give up. You can start making better choices today. Over time, people will see the genuine change in your life, and you can rebuild a good name.