Seek to Establish and Maintain a Good Reputation (Modified Talk)

Proverbs 22:1 (NWT): “A good name is to be chosen rather than great wealth; To be respected is better than silver and gold.”

As Insight on the Scriptures, volume 2:468 shows, “a good name” refers to a good reputation in this case, and it is true that the importance of establishing and maintaining a good reputation cannot be overstated (Ecclesiastes 7:1). As we consider Ruth’s example tonight, we find many points that help us to cultivate a good reputation.

Read Ruth 3:10-what virtuous qualities did Ruth express here? Consideration for others, loyal love and unselfishness. A good reputation meant more to Ruth than wealth or her own
desires. We might ask ourselves, do I value a good reputation with God and humans more than my own desires or wants?

Ruth 3:11 (Read)

Everyone in Bethlehem knew that Ruth was an excellent woman: she quickly established a
good reputation in the eyes of her new people. Ruth’s loyal love, virtue, and unselfishness were outstanding. Moreover, she was humble and a hard worker. See Ruth 2:6-13 for proof of her industriousness and humility. Similarly today, many brothers and sisters have established a fine reputation in the congregation. Like Timothy, they are well reported on by the brothers (Acts 16:2). While there is nothing wrong with having a fine reputation in the eyes of godly humans, Ruth apparently realized there was something more important. Please read Ruth 4:11-13.

The most important person we need to please is Jehovah. Ruth took this course, and what was the result? Jehovah blessed Ruth with the privilege of becoming an ancestress of the Messiah, Christ Jesus (Matthew 1:5). As we practice loyal love, humility and consideration for others, we too can experience the blessing of Jehovah which truly makes us rich (Proverbs 10:22).

As we meditate on Ruth’s example, we see that this account gives us the impetus to establish and maintain a good name with Jehovah.