Serving Through Wise Questions in Negotiation [Commercial Broker #131]
Scripture
“The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, for the ears of the wise seek it out.” — Proverbs 18:15 (NIV)
Devotional
In negotiation, many people rush to argue, defend, or demand. But a wise broker knows the power of questions. Good questions unlock motives, priorities, and constraints that aren’t written in the term sheet.
You can ask: “What’s most important to you in this deal?” “If we solved just one thing today, what would it be?” “What’s your biggest concern about moving forward?” These questions reveal what’s truly driving the other party. Once you understand that, you can look for solutions that align interests instead of fighting blindly.
Jesus often answered questions with questions—not to dodge them, but to expose the heart. Similarly, your questions can shift a negotiation from confrontation to problem-solving. You’re no longer just defending your side; you’re uncovering paths that might benefit everyone.
Serving well in negotiation doesn’t mean you’re passive. It means you’re wise enough to listen before you speak and curious enough to understand before you push.
Reflection Questions
Do I tend to talk more than I listen in negotiations?
What two or three questions could I add to my toolkit to better understand the other side’s true priorities?
Prayer
Lord, give me ears that seek understanding. Teach me to ask wise questions that reveal the truth and help me serve both my client and the overall process well. Amen.
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This devotional is designed to encourage you as you live out your faith in the workplace. It works best when paired with regular time in Scripture, prayer, and worship—the rhythms through which we grow to know Christ more deeply and become more like Him.
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