Together in Christ: 'Reputation over Riches!' — Proverbs 22:1

Few things are more valuable to a person of influence than a good reputation. ^[1] The same is true for all of us. Earthly riches are temporary and fleeting. ^[2] Godly character is true wealth that proves it's genuine over time and through trials. ^[3] Those with earthly riches can be attractive for good times and distractions, but the challenges of life require a friend with character and loyalty. People around us need someone who will walk with them through good and bad times and never fail them. ^[4]

Throughout the Scriptures, God reveals that true godliness involves being:

• Righteous and holy.
• Gracious and compassionate.
• Faithful and just.

Pursuing these virtues of godliness is far more critical than acquiring monetary riches. These virtues are enduring. They help us deposit treasures into the hearts of those around us and with our Father in heaven. ^[5] As the voice from heaven said in John's Revelation of Jesus:

Then I heard a voice from heaven say, "Write this: Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on."

"Yes," says the Spirit, "they will rest from their labor, for their deeds will follow them." ^[6]

Those deeds that follow us are what we leave behind as our godly reputation — the kind of deeds that are more valuable than acquiring silver and gold that won't make the journey with us to our home with God.