Just seeing the words "good reputation" brings a wry smile to those of us who have lived with something quite different in various periods of our life. A life in addiction gives us a reputation, for sure, but it's generally 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)
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.
Too often in the past we were willing to change our direction 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 the principles we live by, and that we consistently hold 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 to be a person of my word. Help me to be more like Jesus in all my ways. Amen
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