Proverbs 22:1 (NIV)

22 A good name is more desirable than great riches;
    to be esteemed is better than silver or gold.

A good name is more desirable than great riches. This profound truth from Proverbs 22:1 (KJV) teaches us a vital lesson. Our character and reputation form a legacy that holds more value than any material wealth we could accumulate. Many chase after riches. They adopt ruthless tactics or step over others to achieve their goals. However, they fail to consider eternity and the judgment we will all face before Jesus Christ.

The Bible reminds us repeatedly of what truly matters:

• Matthew 6:33: “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.”
• Ecclesiastes 3:1: “To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven.”
• Ecclesiastes 2:18-19: “Yea, I hated all my labour which I had taken under the sun: because I should leave it unto the man that shall be after me. And who knoweth whether he shall be a wise man or a fool?”

We work so hard for material things, but when we die, we can’t take anything with us. Worse, we don’t know if what we leave behind will end up with someone wise. It could also end up with someone foolish. Instead, God calls us to focus on the type of person we are becoming. He also urges us to consider the eternal treasures we are storing up.

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Seeking God Above All Else

The Bible instructs us to live in constant communion with His Word:

• Deuteronomy 6:6-9: “These words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up. And thou shalt bind them for a sign upon thine hand, and they shall be as frontlets between thine eyes. And thou shalt write them upon the posts of thy house, and on thy gates.”

God’s Word should be at the center of everything we do. This applies from the moment we wake to the time we sleep. By doing so, we honor Him, build our character, and prepare to stand before Him in judgment.

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The Blessing of the Sabbath

Observing the Sabbath is another way to live out this truth. For me, from Friday evening to Saturday evening, I take a day of complete rest to focus on God. It’s a time to celebrate Him, reflect, and find restoration for my soul:

• Exodus 20:8-10: “Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days shalt thou labour, and do all thy work: But the seventh day is the sabbath of the Lord thy God: in it thou shalt not do any work.”

This rhythm of rest reminds us that life isn’t about endless work and striving but about trusting God’s provision and living in alignment with His will.

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Choosing Loving Favor Over Wealth

Proverbs 22:1 also speaks of the value of “loving favor rather than silver and gold.” God’s favor and the favor of those we love—family, friends, and our community—are far more fulfilling than material success. There was a time in my life when I sought only wealth and recognition. I desired others to look at me and marvel at my accomplishments. But over time, God revealed to me that these things are fleeting. What truly matters is my relationship with Him and the love I share with others.

• Proverbs 3:4: “So shalt thou find favour and good understanding in the sight of God and man.”
• Matthew 16:26: “For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?”

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Accountability and Judgment

Every word we speak, every thought we have, and every action we take will one day come into account:

• Matthew 12:36: “But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment.”
• 2 Corinthians 5:10: “For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.”

Knowing this, I strive to align my life with God’s will. I’ve learned that success in life isn’t about material achievements. It is about living a life that pleases God. A successful life reflects His peace and love to the world.

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Conclusion

Proverbs 22:1 reminds us of what truly matters: a good name, godly character, and loving favor. As we seek first God’s kingdom and righteousness, everything else falls into place. When we live according to His Word, we find peace. We honor His Sabbath and reflect His love, so we discover purpose. We gain eternal treasures far greater than any riches this world can offer.

May we all strive to live lives of integrity. Let us embrace humility and obedience. Store up treasures in heaven where they cannot be destroyed. Amen.