A good reputation with those outside.

1 Timothy 3:7, And he must have a good reputation with those outside the church, so that he may not fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.

Paul gives this as one of the qualities of an elder or overseer in the church, and it’s one that every one of us should consider. One of my friends tells of someone who visited his church, and quickly left after seeing someone who had done him wrong in a business deal. Do I really see myself as His ambassador in everything I do, both within and without the church?

Help me to walk in Your light with integrity every day, in every situation, O Lord.