day 247: Procurement

We've come a long way since the days of just going out and buying what we need for work and then turning in the receipts for reimbursement. Today there are people who are educated and trained to make purchasing decisions to bring about the highest quality items and services at the lowest cost. These are people who are skilled at negotiations and who you want with you when you "go shopping" for any materials or services. In my career, I have watched procurement pros shave significant percentage points and dollars off of cost without giving away anything in the way of quality or service delivery. One common trait is that they have no fear. They are not afraid of asking for what the rest of us would be embarrassed to request. What we think is an outlandish and impossible to achieve request, they see as routine and ordinary. And they never feel bad about being told no. In fact, for most procurement and purchasing people, when we hear no, they hear maybe. Then, they keep at it. I wish I had this gene. I don't. I know I leave money on the table in the quest for a good relationship. But, I have also become smart enough over the years that I now don't go negotiate without a pro with me. And I am not afraid to turn it over to her/him to finish the negotiations when I have gone as far as I can go. There is one place in my life though that I know that I don't have to negotiate and that whatever I ask is available. But, I still must have not only the courage, but more importantly, the faith to make the ask. This area is within how I think, ask and request God to assist, support and take over. 2 Corinthians 9:8 is very clear that the supplies and services from heaven are never limited or negotiation burdened; "And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others." Today, think about the areas in your life that you have been negotiating with God as if He expects a good deal in return. He does not have any of those expectations. He already gave us the deal of a life(time) and all He wants us to do is accept the terms and get to work for Him. He gave up so much that there is no way we could ever even out the score, so He doesn't want us to even feel that we could. What a great thing to know today, that God wants to give...give...give...and he is looking for us to take...take...take. No matter how good your Chief Procurement Officer is, s/he will never bring you that kind of deal!

Reference: 2 Corinthians 9:8 (New Living Testament)