Reputation is what others think you are; character is who you truly are before God. The world teaches us to manage our image, to craft a reputation that impresses people. But God isn’t fooled by appearances — He sees the heart. “The Lord doesn’t see things the way you see them. People judge by outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart” (1 Samuel 16:7, NLT). Your reputation may open doors, but only your character will keep you there.

The problem is, without God’s wisdom, we often make decisions based on feelings, public opinion, or what seems right in the moment. Proverbs 14:12 warns, “There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death.” Like a hiker following a broken compass, many are headed for disaster because they trust the world’s wisdom instead of God’s truth. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom (Proverbs 1:7), and without it, people walk in deception. Are we filtering our choices through God’s Word or through what feels right?

God’s wisdom is like guardrails on a dangerous mountain road. They aren’t there to limit your freedom — they’re there to protect your life. Choosing wisdom means choosing the ancient paths that God has already laid out. The world may chase what’s new, but truth doesn’t change.

So, are you living for reputation or character? Are you following the world’s wisdom or God’s?

Just a thought,

PSS