Dr. Tan Tek Seng

DAILY REFLECTION

5 Dec 2025

Faithfulness in Stewardship

“Whoever has will be given more, and they will have an abundance. Whoever does not have, even what they have will be taken from them.”Matthew‬ ‭13‬:‭12‬ ‭

God delights in those who respond to Him with openness, faith, and obedience. When we honor what He has entrusted to us—no matter how small—it becomes the seed of greater blessing. But when His truth is ignored or rejected, even the little we hold slips away.

Bethlehem Tilahun Alemu’s life is a living testimony of this principle. Growing up in Zenabwork, one of Addis Ababa’s poorest neighborhoods, she did not inherit wealth, capital, or powerful networks. What she had seemed modest in the world’s eyes:

• A family with traditional shoemaking skills

• A community of artisans longing for dignified work

• A vision that Ethiopia’s craftsmanship could be valued globally

• A determination to honor what was already in her hands

Like the widow’s oil in 2 Kings 4, Bethlehem poured out what she had, and God multiplied it. What began as a handful of artisans using recycled materials grew into soleRebels—Africa’s fastest-growing footwear company. Today, her enterprise employs hundreds, transforms communities, and elevates Ethiopia’s reputation on the world stage.

Her story reminds us: God does not ask us to begin with abundance, but with faithfulness. When we steward the little He places in our hands, He entrusts us with more. Bethlehem’s journey is not merely about business success—it is a testimony of how vision, obedience, and perseverance can turn scarcity into abundance, and dignity into legacy.

Matthew 13:12 reminds us that kingdom growth flows from openness, humility, and stewardship. When we treasure His truth, He enlarges our capacity for even more.

“Your faithfulness today might become a blessing for generations tomorrow.”