Jesus told His disciples to be 'shrewd as serpents and innocent as doves.' Nowhere is this more relevant than in Christian Decision Making during high-stakes negotiations. We don't have to be doormats to be Christians, but we can't be sharks either.
Developing Kingdom Shrewdness
Shrewdness is not the same as deceit. It is the ability to understand the situation, see the motivations of others, and act with tactical wisdom. In a business context, this means doing your homework, understanding the market, and being a sharp negotiator. It means integrating prayer and data so you aren't walking into a room blind. Shrewdness is an aspect of Christian Work Ethic.
Maintaining Dove-Like Innocence
Innocence means having an agenda that is free from malice or manipulation. It means yours 'yes' is 'yes' and your 'no' is 'no.' When making decisions in negotiation, always ask: 'Am I being transparent?' and 'Am I seeking a win-win or just trying to win at their expense?' For more, see maintaining ethics in difficult choices.
Navigating 'Dirty' Negotiators
When you encounter people who use lies or intimidation, your shrewdness keeps you from being exploited, and your innocence keeps you from retaliating in kind. This is where Emotional Resilience is vital. You can walk away from a bad deal because your security isn't in that specific outcome. You might find waiting on God for clarity during a tense deal is your most powerful tool.
The Power of Generous Negotiation
Sometimes the most 'shrewd' thing you can do is be unexpectedly generous. By leaving a little more on the table for the other party, you build trust and long-term relationships that are worth far more than a few percentage points of margin. This reflects the Kingdom Mindset that values people above profits. For help with motives, read identifying kingdom motives.
FAQ
Is it okay to use 'leverage' in a negotiation?
Leverage is simply the reality of the situation. Using it to find a fair price is fine; using it to crush or humiliate someone is not. Use your power to create value, not just extract it.
How much information should I share in a deal?
You aren't required to reveal your entire strategy, but you are required to be truthful in everything you *do* say. Omission is a grey area—ask if you are omitting something to hide a flaw or just to protect your position.
What if being 'innocent' costs me the deal?
Better to lose a deal and keep your soul than to win a deal and lose your witness. God is able to provide other opportunities that don't require you to compromise.
Explore the tools in our journal to become a more effective, kingdom-minded negotiator. You can be the best in the business without compromising your faith.