Instead of using the term reputation, the Bible uses the expression “good name” to refer to an outstanding citizen. King Solomon sets this as a goal to aim for, Proverbs 22:1, better than a precious ointment, Ecclesiastes 7:1. Unfortunately, it only takes one emotional outburst, moment of weakness or subtle compromise to flush your reputation down the toilet. Every week there is breaking news of a shocking fall from grace, the byproduct of a secret sin or sins. When the sun rises on the next day, it’s time to bounce back from your own Bathsheba like moment.
One evening David arose from his couch and was walking on the roof of the king’s house, when from there he saw a woman bathing; and she was very lovely to behold. 3 David sent and inquired about the woman. One said, Is not this Bathsheba, the daughter of Eliam and the wife of Uriah the Hittite? And David sent messengers and took her. And she came in to him, and he lay with her—for she was purified from her uncleanness. Then she returned to her house, 2 Samuel 11:2-4.
If you think that “this will never happen to me,” don’t be so sure. Check out what happened to a man after God’s own heart. One night David was unable to sleep, so he takes a stroll on top of his castle. While checking out the scenery, a beautiful woman is taking a bath outside in a hot tub. Eager to find out about her availability, David sends a servant who brings back the bad news, “she’s married.” On any other occasion, David would have accepted this and moved on. However, something changed as David was lured away by sexual fantasies as enticement and lust consumed him.
Let no one say when he is tempted, I am tempted from God; for God is incapable of being tempted by [what is] evil and He Himself tempts no one. 14 But every person is tempted when he is drawn away, enticed and baited by his own evil desire (lust, passions). 15 Then the evil desire, when it has conceived, gives birth to sin, and sin, when it is fully matured, brings forth death, James 1:13-15.
While you may not have committed adultery, the internet has opened up entirely new avenues to ruin your reputation. A politically incorrect blog post, an inappropriate picture or expressing opinions that oppose secular worldviews can get you into hot water or worse. While I don’t want people to refrain from sharing what you believe, you have to do this with gentleness and respect, 1 Peter 3:14-15. The earthly brother of Jesus explains at the end of his letter how to bounce back from your own Bathsheba moment, James 5:16. When you confess your sins to one another and pray for each other, restoring your name and reputation can occur.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 