08/06/2026
*Daybreak Devotional:*
*Proverbs 21:1 through 22:16*
*Devotional Focus Verse:*
*A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favour rather than silver and gold. Proverbs 22:1*
Bill Gaither, an American singer and songwriter of Southern Gospel and contemporary Christian music, tells a story which illustrates the importance of maintaining a good name. Bill and his wife, Gloria, wanted to build a home in the area where he grew up. They spotted a parcel of land on the outskirts of town, and found out the owner was a ninety-two-year-old retired banker. This gentleman owned a great deal of property in the area, but it was well known that he refused to sell any of it.
In spite of that fact, Bill and Gloria decided to visit the man in person, hoping to convince him to let them purchase a part of his holdings. The farmer listened politely to their request, and then responded the same way he always did: he was not interested in selling. However, after making that statement, he paused and then asked the Gaithers, “What did you say your name was?” Bill responded, “Gaither.” The farmer stared at him for a moment, and then asked, “Any relation to Grover Gaither?” Bill answered yes, that Grover was his grandfather. Nodding thoughtfully, the farmer commented, “Grover Gaither was the best worker I ever had on my farm. Full day’s work for a day’s pay. So honest…” He looked at Bill and Gloria again, “So, what piece of ground did you say you were interested in?” Just a few days later, the purchase agreement was finalized — the farmer sold the Gaithers the fifteen acres they wanted, and for substantially less than market value! In the following years, Bill and Gloria often told their children that they had the privilege of growing up on that beautiful, lush piece of property because of the good name of a great-grandfather they had never met.
What do people think when they hear your name? Are their recollections and impressions of you positive? Are qualities of
