What is in a “name” (8034)? In ancient cultures a name carried a lot of weight. There is a reason we pray in the name of Jesus. We have all sung the chorus that begins, “Jesus, name above all names...” The Bible recognizes that. Modern fantasy writers often talk about the power of names to the point that many of their characters have a secret name that is not known because to know it would give someone power over them.
Much of that we brush off today as superstition. But names still mean something. If you follow politics, the name “Bush” causes certain rashes on certain people. The same for the name “Obama” in different circles. We have a different reaction to being called a Judas than a Santa Claus. We now have people being borked. When I was a kid my father would often remind me that I was a part of a family and I should not bring shame to our name. So we understand this.
A good reputation is to be “chosen” (desired NASB) (977) and the word seems to imply action and choice. We must make daily decisions to have people know we are honorable. What do people think of when they hear your name? Does it generate trust or a shaking of the head? I remember one time at school when the library computer system was down and the librarian said, “Take it. I know I can trust you to bring it back.” Evidently I had been making the right choices.
“Favor” (2580) is better than riches. This is the OT word for grace. This is the favor that Noah found.
(Genesis 6:8 KJV) But Noah found grace in the eyes of the LORD.It has a spiritual element and cannot be bought. This is true in everyday life as well as in eternal matters.
So? Live each day as if you were an advertisement for Jesus. You are. If you pray over your meal in a restaurant, make sure that you treat the staff in a way that brings glory to Jesus. When you are in the library don’t be talking loudly on your cell phone. There are so many ways.
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