In today’s fast-paced world, people often want results without doing the work. We want the success, the paycheck, the brand deal, or the business breakthrough—but we skip one of the most important steps: reading the contract. Whether it’s a business agreement or a spiritual covenant, this step is crucial. The Word of God clearly tells us that we must seek knowledge, wisdom, and understanding before we move forward. And that includes reading what’s in front of us.Many people, even believers, make the mistake of rushing into opportunities. They get excited, sign the dotted line, and then later find out they’ve agreed to terms that hurt them. Why does this happen? Because they didn’t take the time to read, study, and understand. God tells us in Hosea 4:6, “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge.” That verse is powerful. It reminds us that destruction doesn’t just come from outside forces; it can come from our own failure to learn.Reading contracts in business is not just a legal step; it’s a spiritual discipline. When you choose to stop and review the terms, you’re choosing to operate in wisdom. Proverbs 4:7 says, “Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.” If you’re building a brand, opening a company, or even starting a partnership, you must read everything. Don’t let excitement rob you of discernment.The Bible is full of contracts—also known as covenants. God didn’t just make verbal promises. He made clear agreements with His people. He told Noah, Abraham, Moses, and others exactly what He expected and what they would receive in return. And guess what? They listened. They followed instructions. That’s the kind of business mindset we need today. We can’t afford to say, “I trust them, I don’t need to read.” No. Trust must be built on truth—and truth is found in reading and understanding what’s been written.Think about the devil in Matthew 4 when he tempted Jesus in the wilderness. He even used Scripture to try and trick Jesus. But Jesus wasn’t fooled. Why? Because He knew the Word. He had read it, studied it, lived it. And that’s what protected Him. When you don’t read, whether it’s the Bible or your business agreement, you leave yourself open to deception. The enemy knows how to use fine print, just like shady companies do. Don’t be caught off guard.Ephesians 6:11 says, “Put on the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.” One part of that armor is the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God. That sword will help you fight off lies, protect your vision, and keep your business rooted in integrity. But again—you have to read it. You can’t fight with a weapon you’ve never practiced with.Some people say, “I’m not good at reading” or “I don’t understand legal talk.” That’s okay. Ask for help. Proverbs 11:14 tells us, “Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety.” That means if you don’t understand something, bring in someone who does. Get a mentor, hire a lawyer, talk to a trusted advisor—just don’t sign something blindly.It’s time we stop rushing into things just because they look good on the outside. Not every opportunity is sent by God. The devil offers contracts too. He’ll promise you the world, but the cost is often your peace, your purpose, or even your soul. Matthew 16:26 asks, “For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?” We are not here to sell our souls. We are here to build God’s kingdom—and that includes the way we do business.