Winston Churchill and Adolf Hitler, Abraham Lincoln and John Wilkes Booth, Jesus and Judas…names conjure up remembrances of either good or bad. Today’s verse stresses that how you live has a great deal – maybe all – to do with how you will be remembered. Churchill encouraged England to stand under Hitler’s attacks born from a desire for power over an “inferior” people. The good man is referenced with respect while the wicked is mentioned with abhorrence.

The memory of the righteous is a blessing, but the name of the wicked will rot.

Proverbs 10:7

Recall the Apostle Paul and his unstoppable pursuit to share the gospel of Jesus with all people. Demas, on the other hand, though not wicked, will forever be considered as the one who left Paul’s side because of his love for the world (II Timothy 4:10). As a believer, contrast your feelings regarding the emperors of Rome and the fishermen of Galilee. The righteous can be remembered for their example, for their strength of character and nobleness, or for their acts of faith. They are a blessing in life and death.

What will be your legacy? Seek to live God’s fullest desires for your life. Then pray for the nation’s leaders that they will show forth righteousness…giving their best for America.

Recommended Reading: I Peter 3:8-17