The Art of the Best Deal

In my younger days, I rejoiced in getting the best deal. There was great satisfaction in knowing I had paid less than the normal price. Better yet, if I had gotten something “for a steal.”

 At some point I began to notice that people, from whom I’d gotten a great deal, often would not perform: they did not provide the agreed-upon product or service, provided it untimely, or performed in some other unsatisfactory fashion. This ever increasing problem occurred even though I had acted honestly and lawfully.

 One day, I decided to try a new approach. Instead of seeking the best deal, I was only going to seek a fair deal, one that equally benefits both sides. How to do this?

 Rotary International advocates putting deals through the following four-way test, to which I have added Biblical support:

 1.     Is it the truth? (“Honest scales and balances are from the Lord.” Prov. 16:112.)

 2.     Is it fair to all concerned? (“The plans of the righteous are just.” Prov. 12:5)

 3.     Will it build good will and better friendships? (“He who seeks good finds goodwill.” Prov. 11:27)

 4.      Is it beneficial to all concerned? (“And do not forget to do good and share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.” Heb. 13:16)

 Since I adopted a fair and less aggressive approach, transactions have worked well for me. Fair deals are the best deals, and the only “art” to them is changing my heart.