I have a wonderful friend whose middle name is O’Joy. How great is that? Even better is the value she gives to the word. Her optimism, exuberance, and heart-warming personality make the name and its identity come to life. She wears it well.
Ecclesiastes 7:1 says, “A good name is better than precious ointment.” Adding to that sentiment, Proverbs 22:1 reads, “A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches.”
Truth told, it’s not the letters of the word that give our names value, it is the lives we lead. The things we do, the actions of our daily existence provide others all the information needed to give worth to our names.
What riches are you building with the uniqueness of your moniker? Is your name worth more than silver and gold or is its value equivalent to dust and dirt under foot?
When those around you are wounded and hurt, does the salve of your name bring refreshing winds of healing grace and comfort?
Are you known far and wide for love and joy or misery and hate? Perhaps your nature is somewhere in between. Does your name evoke thoughts of peace and patience or defiance and dissension? Are kindness, goodness, gentleness, and self-control reflective of your reputation?
When you enter a room, are others excited by your presence or do they turn their backs while trying to avoid a conversation of any length?
Do you feed the hungry, clothe the poor, give shelter to the homeless, visit orphans and widows, or turn a blind eye to those in need?
The letters of your name have no value on their own, but the deeds of your life, the reputation built by daily actions give rise to a testament of whom you have become.
Yes, the value of a name is worth more than great riches and precious ointment, and the choice is up to you. Therefore, choose this day the worth you desire and take the actions necessary to build the character and reputation that give others joy and comfort at the mere sound of your priceless name.
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