Good perfumes will attract the attention of even the most unobservant person. It will turn people in its direction. I remember those old days in school, I noticed a particular Sister would choose her sit by my side in class. I was too shy to ask why she was doing so but one day she asked “What cream do you use?” I realized that was the cause of the matter. She liked the fragrance of the cream I used on my body. If the scent of just a cream could influence a person’s decision to come around another, how much more will a person’s name accomplish?
A good name is by far better than wearing a good perfume. A good name, like a good perfume, it’s effect on those whose ears it falls is compelling. Have you not heard it said before to a wayward son in need of some help, “If not for your father, I would not have seen your face?” Yes, the father had made a name for himself and the fragrance still held it sway.
A sister was once held by a vehicle inspection officer, but on looking at her face, he noticed a semblance of her dad. When he inquired about her, she told her she is the daughter of so and so. The man was so excited. He informed her how her dad had helped him to get the job and many other good things about her dad. Promptly she was let go!
What is in a name? A name is not just an appellation; a means of drawing someone’s attention in a crowd. A man’s name is his fame in the sphere he belongs or wherever he is connected in relationship. A name is one’s renown and reputation; what people first will remember about a person. It is in some sense who the person is as others perceive him.
When certain names are mentioned in this country, people will snarl and may probably add, “Away with such a man.” But other names bring refreshing memories and a longing for such days again. The whole story of a man is brought to light at the mention of his name. The reason some don’t want to mention certain names is because of the memories, the sorrow and ache they would have at the remembrance of that name. Yet others are like healing balm when they are mentioned.
Again, Jesus bears the sweetest man because He is the best the world could ever have had. It is his name that brings joy, comfort, peace and every blessings into the believer’s life, soul and world.
But He wants us to have good names too. His Word enjoins us to present things that are honest both in the sight of God and men. In fact, He wants people to see Him through our own lives. He wants people to remember Him because of who we have been to them.
Perhaps it is a true thing that those in darkness see better those in the light. If both are in darkness, there is nothing to see. But those who are in darkness will see better those under the influence of light. This is the good name that the Lord wants us to bear in relation to Him.
“The memory of the just is blessed” is what the wise king said. The remembrance of a good man brings a lot of refreshing to the hearts of men but an evil man brings a lot of heaviness.
What is your name among men? What is your fame among them? What picture does your name present when it is mentioned? It is always a choice… that begins with choosing to be and continuing on the side of the Lord. Do not say ‘It does not matter, I don’t care…’ for your children will also eat of the fruit of your name, whether it is good or bad.