It is imperative that we apply a biblical framework when we consider The Sphere of Economics. Economic systems are complex, ingrained and difficult to change. Yet there is a part for all of us to play. Through our lifestyles, we can exhibit eternal treasure that will not perish.
Strategic Christian stewardship
The Covid-19 pandemic is a social and an economic crisis just as much as it is a health one—its repercussions, severe and far-reaching, are being felt across the world. The effects are felt unevenly across societies. The Wellcome Global Monitor 2020: Covid-19 Report, the largest study of its kind, found that the pandemic has had a disproportionate impact on low-income countries and people with low incomes across all countries.
My colleagues take advantage of my helpful nature
I can’t claim to be an ardent follower of Philippians 2:3-4 where it says we should consider others first before self, but I try. My peers at work, however, see this as my weakness and take advantage of it. Working in an NGO where teamwork is emphasised, my colleagues frequently request my help with their admin tasks—work I am not good at or like to do, and certainly not my core area of responsibility. While I am glad to help and grateful to God for his spirit working in me, I am in a dilemma as to how to cope with my real duties and not be appraised as under-performing or unhelpful. How should I manage being a good employee and still reflect Christ in me? ~ itCost2bConsiderate
Relative who has questionable spending habits wants to borrow money
My close relative has been facing financial difficulties for the past few years. He has approached different relatives or friends to ask for money. Some time back, he shared his challenges and asked me if I could loan him a sum of money. At that time, I told him that I was not able to as I did not have funds. Recently, he found out that I received a big payout and has asked to meet with me. I believe he will be asking for money again. I feel conflicted as he is nice and helpful to all and has done some favours for my family. But I question how he manages his expenses. I want to help but am I enabling him to continue a habit of living beyond his means?
Is intergenerational worship worth pursuing?
Thirteen-year-old Laura Janis’ verdict of her Choir Tool Box session with Dr Eudenice Palaruan was unwavering. She went on to describe how she had learnt several new songs, moved into a big circle to dance and experienced unity in music-making through playing a variety of percussion instruments.
My child wants tuition even though she doesn’t need it
My child is doing decently in school. However, she feels insecure about not having tuition, as many of her peers do. We can afford it; I’m just not sure she needs it. Yet, it’s become a sore point, and I wonder if she sees it as our lack of support. Maybe she is the ambitious type and won’t settle until she is the top of the pack? What should I do?
The role of an usher
“Hello! Welcome to church!”
This might be what you’ll hear me say a lot of times on a Sunday as an usher.
Welcoming all who attend Sunday service and directing them to their seats is essentially what ushers do. However, there’s a lot of thought that goes behind how ushers work together to provide the warm atmosphere as the first point of contact, when someone enters the sanctuary.
Why Methodists should pay attention to the Lausanne Movement
What would happen if someone called together a congress of 5,000 Christians from 200 different countries, from a wide range of ethnicities, ages, theological backgrounds and worship styles? And imagine adding to this, another several thousand joining in the conversation online, across multiple time-zones. What would result? Would this great pooling of diversity and difference result in division and disharmony? Or would this be an opportunity for the global Church to display and declare its unity in its Lord Jesus Christ? This was exactly what took place at the Fourth Lausanne Congress on World Evangelization (L4), held in Incheon, South Korea from 22 to 28 September 2024.
When a harmful spirit depresses
It’s Time to Prioritise Mental Health in the Workplace. This is the theme adopted for this year’s World Mental Health Day (10 October 2024). Recent years have generated more awareness of the importance of mental health. Today, mental illness afflicts many more of us than we used to think. We would be wise to acquaint ourselves with the different ways to promote stronger mental health in our families and friends.
The long road to healing
Jane’s story of her horrific abuse at the hands of her father was published in Methodist Message October 2023. While sharing her unimaginable ordeals was, to some extent, cathartic and empowering, her journey in search of healing and closure remained a dark and unending road. However, with family support and help from a therapist, the lights have turned on along her way.
My staff can’t seem to work independently
I supervise someone at work. She has been in this role for almost 20 years. While I try to empower and not micromanage, I have realised that she is often not able to work independently and/or think proactively about improving work processes. How do I encourage or help her to understand that she has to think more independently instead of having me tell her what to do? ~ the reluctant supervisor
Covenant Community Methodist Church marks its 30th year with 30 projects and more to bless the community
“I approached Mrs Tham when MGS had already relocated to Blackmore Drive. I asked her if she would be open to BRMC starting a church using the MGS chapel and she agreed. I mooted the idea because I realised that along Bukit Timah Road there was no Methodist church between Barker Road Methodist Church and Bukit Panjang Methodist Church. And it would be appropriate to plant a church at the new MGS.” ~ Rev Dr Ngoei Foong Nghian, first Pastor-in-Charge of CCMC
Are John Wesley’s words to modern Methodists about community life still relevant today?
Every Christian aspires to obey God, avoid evil and do good. But some modern-day predicaments are not discussed specifically in the Bible. How, then, can we apply biblical principles to our lives? In this 9-part series, The Methodist Church in Singapore shares reflections on its Social Principles which, more than ever before, can help believers live by God’s firm principles in today’s volatile and complex world.
How not to make your in-laws your out-laws
When asked some months ago to conduct a workshop on relationships with in-laws, I was both intrigued and challenged. I was intrigued because I had only recently entered the phase of becoming and acquiring in-laws. I was challenged because although it is an important topic, as reflected in the number of clients who have come for counselling for in-law woes, not much research or material has been written about it.