Lecture Notes: The Paradox of Profits

Introduction

• Discussion on building wealth, successful business, generating leads.
• Often, answers that seem simplest or paradoxical are the most effective.

Definitions

Paradox

• Definition: A seemingly absurd or self-contradictory statement that, when explained, may prove to be true.

Profits

• Definition: To obtain financial advantage or benefit, especially from an investment.
• Not limited to financial profits; can include any kind of benefit or advantage.
• Scriptural reference: "In all labor there is profit," and "Bodily exercise profiteth little."

Key Concepts

Paradox of Profits

• Profitability often comes from a willingness to sacrifice.
• Example: Farmers sacrifice seed and labor before harvesting.
• Insight: People desire profits without the front-end sacrifice.
• Biblical Example: Solomon’s sacrifice led to God’s offer (1 Kings 3).
• Sacrifice precedes profit; resisting sacrifice means resisting profits.

Paradox of Peace

• True peace requires a willingness to fight or wage war.
• Scripture Reference: Antichrist uses peace as deception.
• Pragmatic Insight: Unwillingness to fight invites conflict.
• Personal Insight: Willingness to have difficult conversations now prevents tougher ones later.

Paradox of Power

• Real power involves a willingness to yield.
• Concept: Authority is about alignment, e.g., a private vs. a major when on orders from a general.
• Biblical Insight: All authority comes from God (Romans 13).
• Personal Confidence: Trust in a higher authority gives confidence.

Paradox of Persuasion

• Persuasion involves putting others first.
• Sales Strategy: Focus on solving customers' problems rather than making a sale.
• Analogy: Selfless selling; not attached to the outcome but ensuring customer benefit.
• Insight: People are naturally inclined to buy; focus on how to best serve their needs.

Key Takeaways

• Sacrifice is essential for profits.
• Peace comes from a readiness to defend it.
• Power is in yielding to greater authority.
• Persuasion works best when prioritizing others' needs.