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It's fascinating to be in a situation where it looks as if everyone is going to lose what they want, but some wise person comes up with an idea and suddenly, it's a win-win situation.

That wise person often has not been part of the commotion, but somehow has maintained neutrality and distance. Supervisors need that objectivity, and one of the best ways to get it is to suspend decisions until you have consulted God. People may pressure you to make important decisions on the spot, but it's important not to act hastily.

In quiet and solitude, deliberately put your decisions on hold. Ask God to show you what is truly right and wrong in the situation (3:9). Ask God to help you see a just and fair path that exceeds common sense. Treating everyone the same is not always fair; it takes wisdom to know what is best for everyone. Then go about your routine. Don't be surprised if incredible insights come to you, especially in quiet moments in the car or as you pick up the clutter in your house.

Between these crises, ask God to store principles of wisdom within you. Like Solomon, study the ways of plants and animals, and look at the wisdom to be found in the instinct God gave these creations (4:33). There's enough wisdom to go around—even for you and the people you supervise. (See also Exodus 18; Ezra 5:1-6:12; Jeremiah 32:26-44; John 21:15-25; 2 Timothy 1:1-7; Philemon 8-16; Philemon 15-25.)

Give to your servant an understanding heart to judge your people, that I may discern between good and evil. 1 Kings 3:9

What work situation do you need to turn into a win-win one for your employees?

Copyright 2001 by the author or Christianity Today International/Christian Bible Studies.

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