Proverbs 22:1 “A good name is more desirable than great riches; to be esteemed is better than silver or gold.”
How does a person get a good name? It is largely the result of how he treats others. The man who is generous, honest, faithful, kind, courageous, selfless, encouraging, helpful, and humble toward others is going to have a good reputation. But the one who puts the pursuit of selfish goals, personal wealth, and status above people will ultimately fail. He may become rich and powerful, but he will have no genuine friends and no true experience of love. Yet how many people, knowing this, still exchange a good name for money and status! I have seen schemers aggressively trample, lie, and flatter their way to promotion despite a horrific lack of talent, anemic leadership skills, and inferior business results — and so often their unyielding, ugly persistence pays off. But for what real gain? They sell their souls along with their reputations. And they earn the resentment and scorn of all who see through their façade and all who toil under their narcissistic rule.
Father, please bring to ruin those who have achieved wealth and power through selfish means and who cause suffering because of their careless, self-exalting decisions. They drain the workplace of joy and promote cynicism among their employees. Please protect me from such people, and never let me become one.