Just seeing the words "good reputation" brings a wry smile to those of us who have lived with something quite different for various periods of our life. A life in addiction gives us a reputation, for sure, but it's usually not a good one.
A good reputation is better than expensive pleasures. Choose a good reputation over great riches; being held in high esteem is better than silver or gold. (Ecclesiastes 7:1 ERV; Proverbs 22:1 NLT)
Life with God in recovery brings the amazing opportunity of walking with our head held high and living in such a way that others are blessed by our presence in their lives. They share stories that include reports of our example and support for them. Others hear the stories, form a favorable impression of us, and we become persons who have a good reputation.
What does it take to be a person with a good reputation? We need to be people of our word. When we make a promise, we need to keep it, even when it is inconvenient. When we say we'll be somewhere, we need to get there. When we say we’ll do it, we need to follow through.
Lord, who can live in your sacred tent? Who can stay on your holy mountain? Anyone who lives without blame and does what is right. They speak the truth from their heart. They keep their promises even when it hurts. They do not change their mind. (Psalm 15:1-2, 4b NIRV)
Too often in the past we were willing to bend and do whatever we thought it took to be accepted and admired. Now we choose to live as a person who follows God's standards and do what is right, regardless of popular opinion. When people know our principles and that we hold consistently to them, we become safe and steady people to be around. We are respected and trusted – people with a good reputation.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You that I can leave my past reputation behind and one day at a time build a new life of integrity and faithfulness. Help me to speak and make promises carefully and be a person of my word. Help me to be more like Jesus in all my ways. Amen
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