Doing Business by the Good Book: 52 Lessons on Success Straight From the Bible

Black Issues Book Review, July-August, 2004 by Kristin Henning

Doing Business by the Good Book: 52 Lessons on Success Straight From the Bible by David L. Steward, Hyperion, January 2004 $19.95, ISBN 1-401-30062-6

Black Enterprise named David Steward's company, World Wide Technology, Inc., the largest black-owned business in the nation in 2001. Steward attributes his success to biblical principles and faith, a blueprint for which he provides in his book Doing Business by the Good Book.

Drawing directly from Christian Scripture, Steward identifies and discusses basic business principles such as accountability, flexibility, integrity, praise and recognition in their biblical contexts. While these are not novel concepts, the scriptural foundation gives new perspective and inspires the reader lo seek excellence in business endeavors. Steward does not limit himself to an exploration of the traditional character traits of a good leader, but he tackles the harder issues of adversity and confrontation in the workplace. He also advises readers on the importance of developing a contingency plan and not underestimating the competition.

With its autobiographical influence, the book is inspiring, instructive and humorous. In the end, Steward makes a compelling case that following Christian principles is not a sign of weakness in business, but is instead a clear path to success. In Steward's assessment, America is the land of "milk and honey," available to each of us who is willing to follow the Word.

Kristin Henning is a freelance writer and professor at Georgetown Law Center in Washington, D.C.