Proverbs 22:1
A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches,
and loving favour rather than silver and gold.
Opening Reflection
Society measures our success by the amount of money in our bank accounts. As a result, reputation often feels secondary. It’s useful, but it’s negotiable. Yet, the Word of God reminds us time and time again of wealth that cannot be stored or inherited. And once lost, this wealth is very difficult, even impossible, to recover. This wealth is the wealth of a good name.
Unpacking the Verse
The phrase “a good name” doesn’t refer to a person’s family name or the name given to them by their parents. It refers primarily to reputation, particularly moral character. It’s how a person is regarded by society during life and even after death. In the Hebrew text, the word “good” does not appear, but is implied. It is represented by the Hebrew character shem (m), which is marked by wisdom and integrity.
How interesting it is that this good name is deliberately set in contrast with “great riches.” Both are good things to possess, but between the two, it is often the latter that brings anxiety, danger, and even moral exposure. Wealth can relieve physical needs, but if you come to think of it, it doesn’t add value to the inner life of a man. A fool may win the lottery or inherit a hefty amount of money and become rich, but wealth doesn’t make a person wise or honorable.
A good name is preferable because it has lasting influence. When someone is said to have a good name, it means their words carry weight, their actions are consistent, and people know what to expect from them. As for “loving favor,” it has nothing to do with popularity. This favor is relational and grows from consistent character.
It’s important to understand that God’s Word doesn’t treat riches as evil. However, it warns against making riches a priority over character. A good name must be chosen over riches all the time. Wealth may come and go, but reputation is formed gradually and tested continually.
Application for Day 25
There’s always the temptation to pursue money and wealth over a good name. That’s the reason many people get entangled with problems involving money. Some take shortcuts to gain profit quickly instead of choosing transparency in their dealings. Others exaggerate results to secure a sale, hide fees in contracts, or cut ethical corners believing no one will notice
Others protect their income at the expense of honesty. They avoid responsibility, shift blame, or justify unethical behavior. At the end of the day, money gained this way will never bring peace.
We must strive to choose a good name over riches. However, we must remember that reputation is not built in moments of visibility but in faithfulness, even when no one is watching.
Money or recognition may provide comfort for a while, but a good name leaves a legacy.
A simple way to practice this today:
- Consider whether your recent decisions protect or erode trust
- Choose integrity where compromise feels easier
- Value long-term character over short-term advantage
Heart Check
- What am I prioritising more, recognition or reputation?
- Where might I be tempted to trade integrity for advantage?
- How do my daily choices contribute to the kind of name I am building?
Prayer
Lord,
Teach me to value what You value.
Guard my heart from pursuing gain at the cost of character.
Help me choose integrity, wisdom, and faithfulness,
that my life may reflect Your goodness.
Amen.
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