Judges 7:5-6 “So Gideon took the men down to the water. There the LORD told him, ‘Separate all those who lap the water with their tongues as a dog laps from those who kneel down to drink.” Three hundred of them drank from cupped hands, lapping like dogs.”

Smart military men do not take their eyes away from the possible approach of the enemy. I visited the area where this scene took place. It was a heavily forested area, flat and full of ambush possibilities. From a military readiness standpoint, the soldiers who lapped water like dogs could not be as aware of the enemy around them as those who kneeled to bring to bring water to their lips while looking up. These men were aware of potential attack.

Principle: Use consistent testing when hiring all employees and a thorough screening method for key employees.

Hiring people with greater leadership potential means interviewing people who have good records of accomplishment. The best of them will be planners, observers and thoughtful. All of this will increase productivity and lower the risks of the “wrong” hire. You can use standard tests, careful questioning, and observation by a selected group of people within the company. Some companies use an outside consultant to do the final interview. If possible, loop your wife into the process.

Christian owners have an additional advantage of prayer and spiritual discernment. Use everything in your arsenal short of taking them down to a watering hole.

Discussion:

1. Have you ever made the “wrong” hire? Where did your process break down?

2. Who was/is the best hire you’ve ever made, and why?

3. Be sure to include God in your hiring process, each step of the way.