Proverbs 22:1-2 (ESV)
1 A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches,
and favor is better than silver or gold.
2 The rich and the poor meet together;
the Lord is the maker of them all.
Although it is a blessing to have material wealth,
and God graces those who walk uprightly with what they need, even more desired than finances is a good reputation. A person’s standing in the community often reveals character. Those who walk uprightly are generally well thought of, while those who live in a self-seeking fashion are usually frowned upon by neighbors. Both the rich and the poor bear the image of God, and both are equally valuable to him. God does not show favoritism. You may look down on the less fortunate in your midst and even wince when crossing paths with the extremely poor, but God sees differently. What kind of reputation do you have in your communities? Are you respected, or are you known for being egotistic and insensitive? Do what you can to maintain a good name among those around you, which usually begins by putting others before yourself.