A GOOD NAME IS EARNED, NOT AWARDED

Reference text: Luke 7:1-10

Today’s Gospel account took my mind to this verse in “Proverbs 22:1” A good name is more desirable than great riches; to be favoured is better than silver or gold”. Hence, in terms of hierarchy, both a good name and favour rank above great riches. So that in itself, is a call to adjust our priorities on the things we pursue.

We read about a centurion who sent the Jewish leaders to petition Jesus on his behalf because of his servant who was sick. Although we don’t have very good reports about these Jewish leaders, they were earnest in making this plea to Jesus because the centurion ‘was worthy for Jesus to do this'(Luke 7:4). In short, he had a good name.

After all the exploits of Jesus, even His obedience unto death on a cross, God made Him both Lord and Christ (Acts 2:36). To that end, Jesus was given  ‘A NAME’ exalted above every others that at mention of that name, all knees bow (Philippians 2:9-10). That is the name we still leverage today because it carries weight perpetually. It is a name that breaks yokes, heals diseases, opens doors and creates possibilities in measures incomparable.

Besides praying for ‘a blessed name’, a name that causes men to speak good for, and about you even in your absence, a good name is also earned. Remember, Jesus was ‘given’ a name. The amplified version of proverbs 22:1 gives four ways through which a good name is earned. By:

• Honourable behaviour
• Godly wisdom
• Moral courage
• Personal integrity

Beloved, a good name can be leverage,
A good name can be collateral,
A good name can be a key,
But a good name is not awarded, it is earned.

#sly