This Proverb says, “A good name is to be more desired than great riches, Favor is better than silver and gold.” Having a good reputation is extremely valuable, especially when it comes to our character. I am not speaking about being popular. Being popular and being viewed by others as a person with good character are not necessarily the same thing.
A person with good character may well be popular with others who have a good character. However, they won’t be popular around people with bad character.
A person with good character is one who is honest and honorable. Such a person can be trusted in all situations. A person with good character is not self-seeking or selfish. Rather, they seek for the welfare of others. They are always ready to help people in need.
On the other hand, those who seek to be popular tend to be self-seeking or selfish. They may be dishonest or dishonorable in order to please the people around them.
So, how does a person gain a reputation of having good character? When we believe in God and strive to live rightly before God, good character will follow. God’s guidance for us is to be honest and honorable to others. God tells us to “Love our neighbors as ourselves.” When we do this and live in this manner, we will have a good name, which is more valuable than gold.
