Here are two things which are more valuable and which we should covet
more than great riches:--1. To be well spoken of: A name (that is, a
good name, a name for good things with God and good people) is rather
to be chosen than great riches; that is, we should be more careful to
do that by which we may get and keep a good name than that by which we
may raise and increase a great estate. Great riches bring great cares
with them, expose men to danger, and add no real value to a man. A fool
and a knave may have great riches, but a good name makes a man easy and
safe, supposes a man wise and honest, redounds to the glory of God, and
gives a man a greater opportunity of doing good. By great riches we may
relieve the bodily wants of others, but by a good name we may recommend
religion to them. 2. To be well beloved, to have an interest in the
esteem and affections of all about us; this is better than silver and
gold. Christ has neither silver nor gold, but he grew in favour with
God and man, Luke ii. 52. This should teach us to look with a holy
contempt upon the wealth of this world, not to set our hearts upon
that, but with all possible care to think of those things that are
lovely and of good report, Phil. iv. 8.