Plans and a Good Name

I have a few verses and thoughts I’d like to share from what I read last night, okay? Okay.

Proverbs 21:30 “There is no wisdom, no insight, no plan that can succeed against the Lord.”

I think this verse stood out to me because the whole book of Proverbs concerns attaining and living by wisdom, knowledge, and righteousness given by God. It’s interesting that Solomon (or another writer) takes time out to make the point that not even wisdom or insight or our own plans can supersede the Lord’s. My own personal fears for our government and economy immediately come to mind, but one of the pastors in my church has been preaching on the end times. It’s great to know that God has his own plan for the world and for those of us who believe in Jesus Christ. Nothing can change that; no matter how crazy and desperate things will become, no plan by Satan or man will succeed. I believe we can take comfort in that simple statement.

Proverbs 22:1 “A good name is more desirable than great riches; to be esteemed is better than silver or gold.”

A good name: Respect. Honor. It’s apparent that materialism is a drug that has infiltrated even the Christian arena that most of us are susceptible to. I want to have the money to do the things I love and live comfortably in a nice place; who doesn’t? But God says that having a respectable name is more important, no, DESIRABLE. Desirable means wanted or wished for as being an attractive, useful, or necessary. That’s exactly how we should want to attain a good name. And it’s not a “good name” for our own glory or to take our own pride in. It’s a good name to the glory of the Lord. If we live our lives in a manner that strives to do the things of God and live wholeheartedly for him, I have no doubt that estimation by others will follow. What a great way to minister to non-Christians! Character and integrity speak volumes to people.

One of the greatest compliments I got recently was from a friend who said that they respected the way I have tried to learn more about Christ and live my life fully for him. That single thing meant more to me than any personality trait that I think I have going for me. I desire a good name. I hope you do too.