A Good Name

“Now there was at Joppa a certain disciple named Tabitha, which by interpretation is called Dorcas: this woman was full of good works and almsdeeds which she did.

 And it came to pass in those days, that she was sick, and died: whom when they had washed, they laid her in an upper chamber.

And forasmuch as Lydda was nigh to Joppa, and the disciples had heard that Peter was there, they sent unto him two men, desiring him that he would not delay to come to them.

Then Peter arose and went with them. When he was come, they brought him into the upper chamber: and all the widows stood by him weeping, and shewing the coats and garments which Dorcas made, while she was with them.

 But Peter put them all forth, and kneeled down, and prayed; and turning him to the body said, Tabitha, arise. And she opened her eyes: and when she saw Peter, she sat up.

 And he gave her his hand, and lifted her up, and when he had called the saints and widows, presented her alive.

 And it was known throughout all Joppa; and many believed in the Lord.” Acts 9:36-42,

“A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favour rather than silver and gold.”Proverbs 22:1

What do you think of when you hear “chocolate”? What about “beach”, “rubbish”, “winter”, “lollies”, “ice cream”, “skunk”, “spider”, “summer” or “Jesus”? What are the first words that come to your mind when you hear these words? I'm sure some are good, and some are bad!

When the people in this story heard the name “Dorcas,” they thought of a kind lady who was always doing good things for people—an unselfish lady.

What do people think of when they hear your name? What are the first words that come to their mind? Do they think of someone who is selfish; someone you can't trust; someone who is a gossip; someone who is bitter and angry, or someone who is proud?

Or, do they think of someone who loves God; someone who cares; someone who is friendly; someone who is always doing something for others, and someone who is always cheerful?

Dorcas had a “good name”. When people thought of her name, they thought of good things.

Do you have a good name with the people around you? But most of all, do you have a good name with God? When He thinks of your name, does He think of someone who trusts and obeys Him? Or does He think of someone who doesn't have time for Him?

Do you have a good name?