“A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favour rather than silver and gold.”–Prov. 22:1
Suppose someone who knows you well wrote a book about you, without using your name, identifying places, events, etc. that would enable others to identify you. The story would be about a person reflecting your values, behavior, habits, etc.– basically a word picture of your character. How would you feel about the person in the book? And how would you feel about what others would think about that person? Naturally our feelings would depend on what they wrote–whether it was flattering, inaccurate, unfair, or truthful. But let’s suppose it was a spot on accurate depiction of your character, be it good or bad. How would you answer?
Brought face to face with their faults some would have a sense of remorse and would determine to amend their ways. Others, however, wouldn’t respond in such a manner. Some would try to excuse themselves—usually blaming others. Of course some wouldn’t care how they are perceived. They might even boast about things of which they should be a shame. And that’s shameful.
The Bible commands us to be blameless and warns us about being a stumbling-block to others. Anyone who doesn’t care what the Bible says and what others think has a serious spiritual problem. Having a Christ-like spirit and godly character should be every believers goal. What our story would be should be of great concern to us. By the way, what would the title of your story be? If the story of your life was written what short phrase would sum up the contents? Wouldn’t it be great if we could use Phil. 1:21 for the title?
Actually, whether you realize it or not, a book of your life is being written, and you are the author. Although it will never be published it will be read by those who observe your manner of life. Others may never write about you, but they will read what you write by your daily behavior. So what is your story? How will it impact others? Not only do you need to think about how your life is affected, you need to consider how it affects those who know you. Sadly some parents are leading their children on a collision course with trouble and heartache. If you see no other reason to change you ought to do it for their sake. You ought to do it for your own sake– there is great reward in a life well lived. Most of all you ought to do it for Christ’ sake! As Christians we must give an account for the way we live and we will be rewarded accordingly. We get just one chance to get it right, make sure you do.
