Dr. Tan Tek Seng

DAILY REFLECTION
21 May 2026

 “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you.”
Psalm‬ ‭32‬:‭8‬ ‭

In June 2023, I made the painful decision to cancel a long-awaited cruise to Alaska with my beloved wife. Though difficult, I sensed deeply that God was calling me to set aside personal desires and seek Him wholeheartedly during one of the most uncertain seasons of my life. Instead of pursuing rest and leisure, I devoted myself to prayer, reflection, and quiet surrender before the Lord.

At that time, the responsibility of leading Tyrannus Online Seminary (TOS) weighed heavily upon me. The future seemed unclear, and I often felt inadequate for the enormous task ahead. Yet as I waited patiently upon God, He began guiding me step by step. His direction did not come dramatically, but gradually through subtle confirmations, timely encounters, and unexpected opportunities.

Through the encouragement of pastors and trusted friends, God opened doors I could never have arranged on my own. He connected me with theologians who shared the same vision and were willing to help develop structured theological programs leading to certificates, diplomas, and Bachelor’s degrees. At the same time, a former STM lecturer graciously offered to assist in rewriting the ATA Standard Operating Procedures. Looking back, I could clearly see God orchestrating people, resources, and opportunities according to His perfect wisdom and timing.

Although many uncertainties still remained, I chose to trust that God, who sees the beginning and the end, was faithfully directing every step. This season taught me a profound lesson: divine guidance often unfolds progressively rather than instantly. God frequently reveals His will through the people He sends, the doors He opens, and the provisions He releases exactly when they are needed most.

Psalm 32:8 became a deep source of encouragement to me. It reminded me that God never leaves His children to wander aimlessly. His guidance flows from His perfect wisdom, sovereign love, and complete knowledge of our future. When we surrender our fears and uncertainties into His hands, we can move forward confidently, knowing that the Lord Himself is faithfully directing every step.

"God is not late. He's not slow. He's intentional."