The Ethics of the LOI [Commercial Broker #33]
- Staff
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
Scripture: “Let what you say be simply ‘Yes’ or ‘No’; anything more than this comes from evil.” — Matthew 5:37 (ESV)
Devotional
Letters of Intent (LOIs) often feel “non-binding,” but they carry real relational and ethical weight. They shape expectations, influence decisions, and signal commitment. When you draft or present an LOI, you are not just putting terms on paper—you are making a statement about your integrity.
There is a subtle temptation to treat LOIs casually: include terms you know will never stand, agree just to “get it signed,” or overstate a tenant’s readiness to move forward. But even if the document is technically non-binding, your integrity is not. If you know a term is unrealistic, failing to say so is not strategy—it’s deception.
As a follower of Christ, your “yes” and “no” should mean something. Parties in a transaction should be able to rely on what you communicate, knowing that you’re not maneuvering for leverage but advocating transparently. Ethical clarity at the LOI stage lays a foundation of trust for the rest of the transaction—and for relationships that extend far beyond one deal.
Reflection Questions:
· How do I talk about “non-binding” terms—honestly and clearly, or strategically and vaguely?
· What would it look like to treat every LOI as a reflection of my word, not just my skill?
Prayer
Lord Jesus, You are the Truth. Help my words in every LOI and negotiation to reflect Your character. May my yes be yes, my no be no, and my communication clear and trustworthy. 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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