What is the best book on business that you have ever read?

If you visit the typical bookstore-at least in the U.S.A.-you will find hundreds of volumes in the business section, each claiming to hold the ultimate secrets to business success and professional advancement. Some are biographical, others suggest multiple step "how-to's" of becoming a great business leader or high-producing salesperson. Some focus on motivation, trying to convince you that you can do whatever you set your mind to do, while others offer cute little stories in which they convey basic business truths.

I have read dozens of these books, and I'll agree that in them I have found many worthwhile insights and principles. However, I don't think that all the books displayed in the business section can come close to the substance that is available in what I consider the greatest business book ever written-the Bible. In fact, there is more practical business wisdom presented in one small section of the Bible-the book of Proverbs-than you can find in any other book, even those written by today's foremost business leaders.

During the first Monday of every month, I would like you to consider some of the incredible truths that Proverbs teaches on topics such as integrity, honesty, communications, interpersonal relationships, anger, greed, and handling money.

Perhaps most impressive is that the principles from Proverbs work even if you're not religious, or even spiritual. These principles work for one reason-because they are true.

Before we look at specific topics addressed by Proverbs in future editions of "Monday Manna," let me ask you a question: What is the difference between knowledge and wisdom? A business consultant friend of mine explains it this way: Knowledge is knowing "what is." Wisdom is knowing "what is right."

In business, it is not unusual to take shortcuts-to try to close an important sale or achieve a desired profit in the shortest possible length of time, even if we have to wander into the gray areas of right and wrong to do it. Success in the short-term, however, does not always predict success in the long-term. That is why wisdom, and not knowledge, should be especially prized in the business and professional world. But how do we acquire wisdom? Proverbs offers several suggestions:

We can learn and seek guidance from others. "Let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance" (Proverbs 1:5).
Wisdom can keep us out of harm's way. For the waywardness of the simple will kill them and the complacency of fools will destroy them, but whoever listens to me (wisdom) will live in safety and be at ease, without fear of harm" (Proverbs 1:32-33).
Ultimately, wisdom is a gift from God. "…then you will understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God. For the Lord gives wisdom and from his mouth come knowledge and understanding" (Proverbs 2:5-6).
Wisdom offers protection from unscrupulous influences. "Discretion will protect you and understanding will guard you. Wisdom will save you from the ways of wicked men, from men whose words are perverse" (Proverbs 2:11-12).

Next time we will consider other truths the 21st century business and professional person can learn from Proverbs

Bob Tamasy

Robert J. Tamasy is vice president of communications for Leaders Legacy, a non-profit corporation based in Atlanta, Georgia, U.S.A. A veteran of more than 30 years in professional journalism, he has coauthored and edited six books.

THE BEST BUSINESS BOOK EVER!