Thursday, April 18 Who of you that wants to build a tower does not first sit down and calculate the expense, to see if he has enough to complete it? —Luke 14:28. “The plans of the diligent one surely make for advantage,†wrote Solomon, “but everyone that is hasty surely heads for want.†(Prov. 21:5) For example, are you considering a business proposal ? Do not let emotion rule. Gather all the relevant facts, seek the counsel of those familiar with such things, and determine what Bible principles have a bearing on the matter.(Prov. 20:18) To organize your research, prepare two lists—one detailing the benefits, the other the liabilities. Before you make a decision, “calculate the expense.†Consider the potential impact that your decision will have not only on your financial health but also on your spiritual well-being.It takes time and effort to do research. But by doing so, you may avoid making hasty decisions that lead to unnecessary anxiety. w11 4/15 2:12
Sadly, I have seen several occasions where a business deal between brothers took an unexpected turn for the worst. On some occasions, there appeared to be this attitude of "the business venture is guaranteed to be a success, because there are only Witnesses involved" - as if this were a foregone conclusion ("it can't fail"). That's not very realistic thinking, in my opinion. Any number of factors can affect an outcome of a business venture. Perhaps a loan falls through, maybe the business doesn't make as much profit as expected, perhaps someone makes an unwise investment decision, etc. Anyone involved in business needs to do their research first -there may not be much margin for error.