The role of the professional in the ministry
By Randell Tiongson on July 4th, 2017
Many of us have been taught bad math.
We’ve learned two formulas in particular which lead to a lack of clarity about what God wants to do in and through us.
We’ve learned that “Great Commission = clergy” and “professional = laity.”
The almost inevitable result of this bad math is to think the people who hold real value in God’s eyes are the clergy, the full-time ministry workers. After all, we are told, they are all about “the Lord’s work,” and they serve Him in “full-time ministry.”
The flip-side of our conclusion is that, sure, laypeople have some value, but it’s more about the money they make (and give as tithes and offerings) or the abilities they have (“hey, would you be interested in volunteering in ushering or kids church?”).
But that’s not what the Bible teaches! Look at what Peter writes in 1 Pet. 2:9, and then get ready to jump for joy (out of your nice office chair, or off of your workplace, or… well, you get my point). Did you read it? If you are not jumping for joy, maybe this can help.
The “you” Peter calls chosen and royal and holy and belonging to God are not clergy. They are laity! He is writing about the whole body of Christ, not just a select few. In other words, the “you” is YOU! You the business professional, the worker, the executive, everyone! God has chosen YOU to proclaim His excellencies.
The calling and privilege is not merely reserved for a few full-time ministry workers. It’s for bankers and stock brokers, financial advisors and call center agents, teachers and doctors and engineers and lawyers and entrepreneurs and business people. It’s for YOU!
Have you considered how you can best leverage your work, your skills, your career, your company for the sake of God’s glory among your society, the nation and the world?
“But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.”
1 Peter 2:9, ESV
#YouVersion
Lean not on your own understanding
By Randell Tiongson on June 26th, 2017
There have been a lot of business decisions that I have been involved in covering a few decades. Despite the seemingly brilliant ideas, many of them did not yield the results I was expecting and some of them resulting into disastrous outcomes that brought in losses, strained business relationships and heartaches. Many of those endeavors look good on paper and can impress others, at least in theory and I am usually left dumbfounded and asking the question “why?”.
Thankfully, experience has taught me that more than brilliant ideas, it is wisdom that we should be seeking first and foremost.
In the Bible, the book of Proverbs may reveal the answers to many of my questions. In life and in business, there is no book more practical than this one. And of all the verses in Proverbs, there are few others that have been as profoundly impacting in my business and professional journey.
The author of Proverbs describes a radical shift in focus, trust, and confidence for the business professional. Instead of leaning or relying on your own intellect, skill, wisdom, insight, team, board, employees or market forces, we are to lean on the Lord.
How much does a person lean? With ALL of the heart and mind.
When is it appropriate to lean on Him? In ALL of your ways or, said differently, in EVERY decision, plan, forecast, meeting, presentation, interview, conversation, etc. At all times and in everything we do.
What is the net result? HE WILL guide and direct your paths to be plain, evident and straight. This is a promise.
In submitting to the Lord, we acknowledge His supreme wisdom and insight so can be counted as a true disciple of Christ.
“Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”
Nick Vujicic returns to Manila!
By Randell Tiongson on July 6th, 2016
Great news! One of the world’s most admired motivational and inspirational speaker will be returning to Manila again, Nick Vujicic!
Nick Vujicic has been inspiring millions of people all over the world, giving them hope and pushing them people to embrace that life has so much to offer.
I had the privilege of being an ‘opening act’ for him during his first visit here sometime ago. I will be part of his event once more on July 29, 2016 at the 2pm event in Smart Araneta Coliseum along with Chinkee Tan, Dr. Andrew Liuson and Ms. Luchi Cruz Valdez.
To know more about the event and how to buy tickets, visit HERE
