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Business Wisdom From Proverbs

stevesteve subscriber Posts: 14
edited August 2006 in Thought Leadership
I`ve always found the Bible to contain good business instruction,
especially the Proverbs of Solomon. I don`t wish to push my personal
views on anyone but I`d like to make occasional posts on the business
wisdom I find there.

Today`s is from Proverbs 26:4-5. Two verses, back to back that appear
contradictory. Verse 4 says "Answer not a fool according to his folly,
lest thou also be like unto him" while verse 5 says "Answer a fool
according to his folly, lest he be wise in his own conceit."

So which are we supposed to do, answer or answer not?

I believe it depends on the fool, and whether you believe there is hope
of him changing as a result of your answer. Many years ago a man I knew
"answered" me with three little words at a time when I was being
foolish. If I were to meet him today I would thank him profusely for
what he said. I`ve never forgotten those three little words. (I`ve also
never repeated them.)

Most of us as beginning entrepreneurs want advice from those more
experienced. If you want people to take the time to give you advice you
must show by your actions and attitude that you`ll (a) receive their
advice and (b) act on the advice given. Otherwise why should they
bother with you. There are a thousand other people who are seeking
advice.

Comments

  • bfleming98bfleming98 subscriber Posts: 0
    Steve,
    Nice Post.  I used to read the proverbs daily just like you`re doing.  Man I gotta get back into it.
    I`d say, it means don`t answer a fool.
    So, if you ask a question on the board and you *think* someone is a fool, don`t answer them.  Truthfully the fruit is on the tree.  If they`ve built a business then you can trust their advice.  If they`re just giving you free advice then it`s probably worth about what you paid for it
     
  • stevesteve subscriber Posts: 14
    Here`s one Joel, that I think suits you well.

    A man that hath friends must show himself friendly... Proverbs 18:24

    My take - if you want a friend - be a friend.
  • stevesteve subscriber Posts: 14
    Here`s a thought for you.

            He that hath no rule over his own spirit
            is like a city that is broken down and
            without walls. Proverbs 25:28.

    In ancient times a city`s walls were it`s primary defense against
    attackers. In essence what Solomon is saying here is, if you can`t
    control your spirit (your temper or emotions) you are highly
    vulnerable. That`s not a good place to be.

    If someone else can push your buttons, they`re in control of you, not you.
  • stevesteve subscriber Posts: 14
    Steve, I like the way you think. I would love some imput on a
    few ideas I have in my head. Would you be interested in computing with
    me a little? Thanks. PamAs many others have given to help me,
    I`d be happy to help however I can.
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