Black Eyes and Ruined Reputations

We all have a reputation! It is earned. It is not a gift. You and I are known for who we are because of our decisions, actions, words, and relationships. Once a bad reputation has been created, it takes time and effort to alter it for the good; unfortunately, a good reputation can become tarnished with just one mistake.

God has a reputation also; He guards it carefully. In Psalm 23:3, David says, “He guides me in paths of righteousness for His name’s sake.” A shepherd who leads his sheep in places where their wool will not be filled with briars, dirt, and tears, will receive top dollar for his wool in the market place. He has a good reputation. So it is with God, who, the Psalmist says, has a good reputation - His sheep (followers) are trusted and revered in the market places of the world. His sheep (us) reflect on God’s reputation.

Likewise, in the parable of the “Persistent Widow” (Luke 18:1-8) Jesus reflects on His words in Luke 17 concerning the final victorious outcome for His persecuted followers. He assures them that His reputation rides on their ultimate vindication.

Though now persecuted physically and emotionally, Jesus encourages His followers to exercise patient courage – for He is working out His plan of vindication for His people lest He be given a bad reputation - a “black eye” – “I will see that she gets justice, so that she won’t eventually wear me out (“give me a black eye”) with her coming.”

We can totally trust God. His assurance is that, even though we may be experiencing physical or emotional persecution for the name of Jesus right now, God will write the final chapter and you will be vindicated – God has staked His reputation on that.

What will people think of God by the way we live our lives today? Will His reputation be enhanced?

For His Name’s Sake ~ Bob