What's in a Name?—September 6 Bible Reading Plan - Denise Pass

What’s in a Name?

Worrying a lot about what others think about us might give us a good name (temporarily),  but it will leave us empty as it does not satisfy for long. And keeping up appearances is not living the authentic life. Our name might not mean much to some, but what’s in a name is so much more than a title, role, or popularity. It’s what is behind the name that matters. And for those who are in Christ, we have the greatest name of all where our standing before the God of this universe is favored forever.

Bible Reading of the Day: Proverbs 22-23

We can own all we want to in this world, but if we do not have a good standing with man, it is not as enjoyable. Solomon points out the importance of favor of finances in Proverbs 22:1.

“A good name is to be chosen over great wealth; favor is better than silver and gold.” And God is the great equalizer, as it says in Proverbs 22:2, “Rich and poor have this in common: the Lord makes them all.”

What’s in a Name—Character

But a good name with man is temporary in this world. Fearing man will just have us ensnared to man’s approval, but fearing God will give us favor that endures.

A good name is not something we put on —it is something we live out. By being people of character rather than people living to please people, we gain a name that is based on integrity rather than popularity. We gain a good name when we are humble, not prideful.

What’s in a Name—Humility

Proverbs 22:3-5, “A sensible person sees danger and takes cover, but the inexperienced keep going and are punished. 4 Humility, the fear of the Lord, results in wealth, honor, and life. 5 There are thorns and snares on the way of the crooked; the one who guards himself stays far from them.”

Scripture of the Day:  Proverbs 23:17-18 NLT

“7 Don’t envy sinners, but always continue to fear the Lord. 18 You will be rewarded for this; your hope will not be disappointed.”

We are rewarded when we fear God and live according to His word. We are disappointed when we put our hope in man’s temporary acceptance. Solomon closes with some final tips to help us have a good name in God’s sight.

What’s in a Name—Choosing a Better Name

Proverbs 23:19-20 “Listen, my son, and be wise; keep your mind on the right course. 20 Don’t associate with those who drink too much wine or with those who gorge themselves on meat.”

Wisdom and keeping our mind in God’s word and way help us to keep a good name before God. This is a witness to others who are searching for the truth.

Proverbs 23:22-23, 26, “Listen to your father who gave you life, and don’t despise your mother when she is old. 23 Buy—and do not sell—truth, wisdom, instruction, and understanding. 26 My son, give me your heart, and let your eyes observe my ways.”

When we obey those in authority over us, we live out a life of humility, obedience, and integrity. And when our heart is after God, our name is written in the book of Life.

Application

• A good name is only good because of Jesus.
• A good name is not something we put on, but something we live out.

7-Fold One-Year Bible Reading Plan

Day #250: Proverbs 22-23

Scripture of the Day: Proverbs 23:17-18

Listen: https://www.biblegateway.com/audio/mclean/niv/Prov.22

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