Whose Name Matters Most?
“Then they said, ‘Come, let’s build a great city for ourselves with a tower that reaches into the sky. This will make us famous and keep us from being scattered all over the world.’ “
The Babylonians sought to build a great city with a high tower. In ancient Mesopotamia, pagan temples featured a tower, known as a ziggurat, which was believed to be a residence for the gods. By building a giant tower, the Babylonians sought, not only to earn the blessing of their gods, but also to expand their own fame. The original Hebrew says, literally, that they wanted to make a name for themselves.
It’s natural for us to seek a “good name” for ourselves, to be respected by those who know us. But, as God’s people, our greatest passion should be for the glory of God’s name. We are to live in such a way that he receives praise because of us (Matt . 5:14-16; Eph. 1:12).
QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION: Whose name matters most in your life? Do you seek your own fame first of all? How might you live for the praise of God’s glory today?
PRAYER: Dear Lord, it is my privilege and calling to live for your praise. May your name be glorified through me, in the way I speak—in my attitudes, in my behavior with my colleagues, when I’m with my family and friends. Give me a new passion for the glory of your name, so that I might live each day for you . . . beginning today. Amen.
Photo Copyright © Adam Kazmierski c/o istockphoto.com.
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