YOUR CHARACTER CAN BE A KEY OR A LOCK!
I got information from a reliable source requesting that I recommend some people for a job in a financial institution. While processing and thinking about those I could reach out to, I remembered a young man who was not close to me in any way, but I knew he needed such an opportunity.
I placed a call to those who knew him better to ask whether they would personally recommend him for such a job. The persons I spoke with said they cannot recommend him because of his character especially when it comes to money. That was the end of the opportunity.
Friends, one of the things that can open a door of favour for you is a great character and a good name. Some names are like keys. They will open doors.
Jonathan was dead, but his name opened a door for Mephibosheth in David’s palace. He had a good name.
Now David said, “Is there still anyone who is left of the house of Saul, that I may show him kindness for Jonathan’s sake?”
II Samuel 9:1 NKJV
But we must also understand that one of the things that can close or even slam the door of favour on your face is a bad character or a bad name. Some names are not keys. They are like padlocks. They shut people out of opportunities.
For instance, it is so hard for people to give their children names like Judas. Why? Someone bore that name and left a “forever” stain on it. It is a good name, but a character spoiled it.
There was a time when a young man who had worked in a ministry office got another job. His new employer sent a reference form to his former employer. One of the questions there was, “Can you employ him again?”
Beloved, do not stain your life’s journey with bad examples. As terrible as Laban was, he knew that Jacob was a blessing. He told Jacob himself:
And Laban said to him, “Please stay, if I have found favour in your eyes, for I have learned by experience that the Lord has blessed me for your sake.” Then he said, “Name me your wages, and I will give it.”
Genesis 30:27 – 28 NKJV
Can your employer say the same about you? Can they trace the growth of their business to your contribution? Are you building a good name, or are you just coasting along with anything that comes?
Do not let desperation for wealth and survival make you sacrifice ultimate reward for immediate pleasure. Stand strong in character. Stand strong in your tests. Live a good name. Leave a good name.
© temilOluwa Ola, Eruwa.