A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, And loving favour rather than silver and gold.
Proverbs 22:1 KJV
This single verse challenges the value system of our culture. Society often urges us to chase riches, influence, and status. However, God redirects our hearts to what lasts beyond the grave. He calls us to pursue character over wealth—a life that honours Him and blesses others—a good name.
What Does a Good Name Really Mean?
In Scripture, a “good name” refers to more than popularity or fame. It describes a life built on integrity, honesty, and kindness. A good name reflects how we treat others, especially when no one else is watching. It grows through daily faithfulness, not loud achievements. People remember those who uplifted, encouraged, and walked with humility. These qualities endure long after money and possessions disappear.
Meanwhile, “loving favour” speaks of the goodwill that flows from trustworthy relationships and divine approval. This kind of favour surrounds those who choose faithfulness over self-promotion. It cannot be bought; it can only be earned through consistent, godly character.
Joseph’s story in Genesis shows this truth. Falsely accused and imprisoned, he stayed true to his convictions. He chose truth over temporal comfort. God honoured him. Pharaoh saw his wisdom and gave him authority. Joseph didn’t chase wealth or fame—his faithfulness and God’s favour lifted him. His life urges us to choose character over wealth, trusting that God rewards quiet faithfulness.
Ruth’s story also echoes the same truth. She arrived in Bethlehem with nothing—no status, no wealth, no prospects. Nevertheless, her quiet loyalty and strong work ethic drew the respect of the entire community. Boaz praised her as a virtuous woman. God responded to her faithfulness by placing her in the lineage of King David and Jesus Christ. Ruth didn’t seek honour, yet her name became a legacy of grace. Her life proves that faithfulness draws favour more surely than silver ever could.
In contrast, Ananias and Sapphira chose image over truth. In Acts 5, they pretended generosity while hiding their deceit. They craved applause but refused to live with integrity. Their decision led to their downfall. Their names now serve as a warning that when we seek recognition without righteousness, we are building on shaky ground. God sees through appearances. He honours those who walk honestly, even when the world does not. Their story reminds us to value authenticity over applause.
Everyday life affirms the wisdom of this verse. At funerals, no one discusses financial portfolios or designer wardrobes. Instead, people speak of compassion, presence, and how someone made them feel. Those simple but profound moments form the true legacy. They linger in the hearts of others and continue to speak when everything else fades.
The Bible reinforces this truth throughout its pages. Ecclesiastes 7:1 says, “A good name is better than precious ointment,” showing that moral beauty holds more value than luxury. Proverbs 3:3–4 teaches us that mercy and truth bring favour and understanding. God blesses lives shaped by these qualities. He values hearts that reflect His nature. Likewise, Proverbs 22:1 urges us to ask the right questions. Instead of asking, “What can I gain?”, we should ask, “Who am I becoming?” Silver and gold fade, but a good name grows brighter with time. A life rooted in truth and trust carries weight that riches can never match.
Let your name reflect Christ. Let your actions speak of integrity, humility, and grace. Choose daily to build your legacy on faithfulness over wealth, knowing that God values the unseen more than the celebrated. When your life echoes with love and faithfulness, your name will shine long after the riches of this world have faded.