Good reputation for Christ

https://odb.org/2024/12/01/a-good-reputation

Once we believe in Jesus Christ and become a believer and disciple of Christ, we will embark not only on a journey of faith to eternal life, but also a journey of transformation. We discard our old habits and put on new ones even as Christ impacts and works in our lives through the Word of God that we read, the Holy Spirit working in us, our communion with Christ and God the Father in prayer and supplication and, through praise and worship. The fellowship with our fellow believers and our interaction with our church leaders and pastors as well from the meeting together in cell groups, attending Sunday worship services and listening to the Word as it is preached. We cannot avoid a change in our life to reflect His glory. It is impossible to remain in our old fleshy desires. Over time, even our ambitions will be transformed and sanctified by Christ to align with God’s plans and purposes for our lives.

As we develop our character in Christ and become more and more like Him, what is our reputation to others around us? Do we have a good reputation? Are we dependable, trustworthy, friendly, approachable and responsible? Are we generous and like to bless others? Are we a gracious and humble person? Are we known to follow principles that transcends those of this world? For example, do we only look out for our own interests or also that of others too? If we always want the best deal for ourselves, will we not be sacrificing the best deal for others? Think about that. Are we content to always have a “win-win” situation, or do we always look for a “win-lose” one? Sometimes it is even wise to allow a “lose-win” situation if the Holy Spirit prompts us. Surely it is OK to lose for the sake of Christ if it advances the cause of the Kingdom of God? No doubt the blood of Christ and the grace of God have set us on a course for eternity. Nevertheless, we will still live in this world until Christ returns or calls us home. Therefore, we must have a good character in Christ and a good reputation to others. All those things we have learnt in church like don’t be just a Sunday Christian, an angel in church but a devil the moment we step out of church are true! Only a Christian on Sundays but of the world every other day in the week!

A good reputation is helpful as pointed out in today’s ODB article – it helps us to speak or even correct bad behaviors around us. People respect our point of view because of our good reputation. We are not only to others a Christian or deeply religious person, but a generally good and respectable person. Our words carry weight. We have a sphere of influence. Others listen to us and respect us. Our reputation goes beyond our achievements in life, our wealth or education. It is who we are regardless of our station in life. It is something totally within our control.

Have a good Sunday worship service today, everyone! I pray that each and every one of us will have a personal encounter with God as we meet Him face to face in worship! May our knees be strengthened and may we be encouraged to persevere through our walk of faith while honing our character in Christ, always preserving our good reputation to the world!