Demetrius is well spoken of by everyone—and even by the truth itself. We also speak well of him. (3 John 12)
“You really need to meet him!” a colleague said, speaking of a possible candidate for a position I was seeking to fill. She continued, “I don’t know him really well, but from everything I’ve heard, he is a great guy and would be a perfect fit.”
Because of her recommendation, I met him. His experience wasn’t at the level I wanted, and he would be coming from outside the organization, which would require the additional effort of acclimation. He didn’t check all the hiring boxes, but he had strong potential and someone’s very good opinion.
I checked his references. All were Christians, none of whom I had met. Each one spoke highly of him, so I eventually offered him the position and he accepted.
That individual, hired because of his solid reputation, turned out to be an excellent employee, successful team leader, and a trusted friend. He rebuilt an area that had become disillusioned and ineffective. I watched his team gain confidence, enjoy their work, and start achieving their goals. I thanked my colleague often for taking the time to tell me about him.
Like this employee, John commended Demetrius, emphasizing what Scripture says in Ecclesiastes 7:1 that “a good name is better than fine perfume.” We too have an opportunity to live each day in such a way that our good names—our reputations—precede us.
Honor your name, Christian.
Janelle Vernon serves The Wesleyan Church as executive director of Communication and Administration, general secretary, and publisher for Wesleyan Publishing House.
© 2021 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.