Devotions for a Busy Business Person, no. 263 – Right in front of you

Finding good talent is always a challenge. My friend Harry T. Jones offered some good advice,  “Look who is beside you.”

“The Lord answered, ‘Who then is the faithful and wise manager, whom the master puts in charge of his servants to give them their food allowance at the proper time? It will be good for that servant whom the master finds doing so when he returns. Truly I tell you, he will put him in charge of all his possessions.’”. Luke 12:42–44

Who among your staff or colleagues has shown consistent good work, year after year? Which one is the “maven”, as Malcolm Gladwell calls them – the one who quietly knows how everything fits together and helps keep things running smoothly? Who works diligently, even when no one is watching?

“Now it is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful.” 1 Corinthians 4:2 (NIV)

Sometimes we suffer from proximity bias, and the right person is right in front of you. Watch them work. Perhaps set up an opportunity: a short-term project, technical task,  or leadership challenge. See how they do. There is little risk and potentially a lot to gain.

“His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!’” Matthew 25:21 (NIV)

Prayer

God, open my eyes to the treasure that is right in front of me.

Amen