October 16, 2026

Business by the Book

Proverbs 16:20 He that handleth a matter wisely shall find good:

Labor disputes, conflict resolutions, warranty issues, unforeseen consequences of major decisions, market fluctuations, supply shortages, transportation logistics, inventory problems: these and so many other business matters must be handled daily. Managers have the task to manage matters, both big and small. Handling matters wisely is a gift, an art, and a learned skill all rolled up into one. Managers who learn to handle matters wisely are usually promoted and find good.

Consider five secular things to do in order to handle matters wisely.

1.  Listen to all involved in the matter before taking action.

2.  List all possible courses of action no matter how unlikely they may be.

3.  Let others review all possible courses of action and regard their input for each.

4. Lengthen the time between the immediate emotional response and finalizing a fair, sound,

and rational decision.

5.  Launch your course of action.

By the way, every business person is a manager even if all they manage is their own responsibilities. Also, there are far more matters to be handled than there are people who can handle them wisely. Furthermore, no matter how wise a manager a person is, difficult matters will arise.

P.S.  The preacher in me prohibits myself from ending this without saying that prayer and Bible consultation is a given.

Dr. William Howe