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Stewardship versus Ownership – Taking Calculated Risks

Stewardship versus Ownership – Taking Calculated Risks

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In the parable of the talents, Jesus tells a story that challenges not only our understanding of stewardship but also our mindset toward risk and reward. One servant, entrusted with five talents (bags of gold), took immediate action and doubled what he was given. His results were so impressive that his master later called him “good and faithful.”

But this wasn’t a mere chance. This was a calculated risk.

Faith Is Not Fearful

The servant didn’t wait for ideal conditions. He didn’t bury his talents out of fear. He understood the responsibility of what had been entrusted to him and moved. Faith isn’t static. It’s active. And sometimes, faith looks like wisely stepping into the unknown with courage and clarity.

Calculated risks are not reckless leaps.

They’re faith-fueled decisions backed by thought, preparation, and the understanding that everything we have is God’s, and we are stewards.

This servant.

  1. Believed that the talents weren’t just to be preserved but to be multiplied.
  2. Didn’t delay due to fear or perfectionism.
  3. Accepted the risk. Any investment, business idea, or step of faith comes with risk. But he embraced it because he understood the cost of inaction.

We often glorify safety when, in fact, God honors bold stewardship. I agree that, not every risk is holy, but a calculated risk, taken in faith and wisdom, often is.

Faith in Action Looks Like:

  • Starting that business even if the economy isn’t perfect.
  • Applying for that leadership role you feel underqualified for but called to.
  • Investing in your gifts, education, or a new ministry despite uncertainties.

Later in the parable, the servant who hid his one talent out of fear was rebuked. Not because he lost it, but because he never tried. Fear kept him passive, and in God’s economy, passivity is unfaithfulness. God wants a return on His investment in you. Not just for His glory, but for your growth.

Matthew 25:16 reminds us that boldness, when paired with wisdom and stewardship, pleases God. Taking calculated risks isn’t just a business principle, it’s a kingdom principle.

So, what’s your five-talent opportunity today?

What have you been entrusted with that needs bold, faith-driven action?

You may not have all the answers yet, but if you move in obedience, wisdom, and prayer, you will end up better than you started, and your Master will find you faithful.

Fear not. Be bold. Be confident. Be courageous.

You were MADE FOR MORE.

Iamhenrylong

Stewardship versus Ownership – A Lesson from Corporate Life and the Words of Jesus

Stewardship versus Ownership – A Lesson from Corporate Life and the Words of Jesus

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Some years ago, while working as a Facility Security Officer at Procter & Gamble, I encountered a powerful mindset that continues to shape how I handle responsibilities today, whether in business, ministry, or relationships. It was the “Ownership Mentality” where every employee is encouraged to take personal responsibility for the company’s success. Though I was an employee, not a stakeholder or shareholder, we were trained to think and act like owners.

At first, it felt odd.

Why should I take ownership of something that technically wasn’t mine? Why should I go the extra mile when I could just do “my part” and move on? But the more I leaned into it, the more I understood the wisdom behind it.

Ownership is not just a legal title, it’s a mindset. It’s about being fully invested, taking initiative, and being accountable not just for your task, but for the outcome. As I reflect on this today, I realize this principle isn’t just a corporate best practice, it’s biblical.

“Do to others whatever you would like them to do to you.”
Jesus (Matthew 7:12 NLT)

Jesus’ teaching challenges us to treat other people’s affairs with the same dignity, passion, and intentionality that we want for our own. That’s not just kindness. That’s stewardship elevated by empathy.

Too often, we confuse stewardship with servitude. We act like we’re just doing someone a favor. We handle opportunities or positions like placeholders until “our own” comes. We give the bare minimum instead of our best.

But real stewardship is managing what belongs to someone else as if it were yours. It’s not passive. It’s purposeful. And when done right, it builds trust, opens doors, and prepares us for more.

At P&G, thinking like an owner made me

  • more alert,
  • more responsible, and
  • more fulfilled.

I saw problems and solved them, not because someone told me to, but because I cared.

Whether you’re managing someone’s business, leading in a church, working for a company, or even helping a friend with a project, remember this:

  • Do it like it’s yours.
  • Treat it the way you’d want others to treat yours.
  • Be a faithful steward, not a distant servant.

In the Kingdom of God, how we manage what belongs to others is often the test for whether we’re ready for our own. Just ask the servant who was given the five talents in Jesus’ parable, faithful stewardship brought multiplication.

So today, I encourage you to reflect:

  • Are you giving your best where you are, or waiting for your “real” opportunity?
  • Are you handling someone else’s vision with the same care you’d expect for yours?
  • Are you working with a servant’s attitude, or an owner’s mindset?

Own it, even when it’s not yours.

As we celebrate Easter, may the resurrection power of Christ renew your passion for excellence, purpose, and service. Just as Jesus gave His all for what wasn’t His fault, may we also give our best even when the assignment isn’t “ours.”

Happy Easter to you and your loved ones!

May this season bring hope, clarity, and a fresh commitment to stewardship in all areas of your life.

You were MADE FOR MORE

Iamhenrylong

Making Wise Decisions – Part 3

Making Wise Decisions – Part 3

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Mistakes are part of growth, but some mistakes come with a heavy price.

Not long ago, I came across a business opportunity that looked exciting, promising returns, compelling pitch, everything seemed right on the surface. Normally, I don’t invest in ventures like that, and when I do, I take my time to do proper due diligence. But this time… there was pressure. “Act now or miss out forever.”

That sense of urgency got to me, and I jumped in. Sadly, skipping the necessary checks cost me. I got burned. It was a painful reminder that emotion and pressure are poor advisors when it comes to decision-making, and wisdom is never in a rush.

Whether you’re a business owner, a creative, or team leader, the goal is not perfection, but prevention. Use this checklist to stay ahead of errors that can drain your time, money, or reputation.

1. Clarify Before You Commit.  Have I fully understood the task, brief, or contract? Are expectations clearly spelled out, for both sides? Have I asked questions to remove ambiguity? Confusion is expensive. Ask now, not later.

2. Back Decisions with Data. Am I relying on verified facts and not just gut feeling? Have I done enough research to support this decision? Have I considered the worst-case scenario? Data may not eliminate all risks, but it reduces blind spots.

3. Pause to Think, Not Just React. Have I taken a moment to reflect before acting? Am I being pressured into a rushed decision? Have I considered the long-term impact? Speed is good, until it causes regret.

4. Consult Before You Conclude. Have I spoken with someone more experienced? Did I seek input from team members or stakeholders? Am I making this decision in isolation? Wise counsel can save you from painful consequences.

5. Document Everything. Is there a written agreement or summary of what was discussed? Have I captured important decisions in writing? Can I refer to what was agreed if questions arise? A paper trail is your insurance policy.

6. Protect Yourself and Your Work. Are all legal and security risks considered? Is my intellectual property safeguarded? Are contracts, NDAs, or permits in place? Prevention is cheaper than litigation.

7. Do a Final Check Before Launching. Have I double-checked figures, facts, and files? Has someone else reviewed this work with fresh eyes? Is everything aligned with the goal? Small errors caught early can prevent big disasters.

8. Learn From the Last Mistake. What went wrong the last time, and why? Have I created a system to avoid repeating it? Am I tracking my growth as a decision-maker? Mistakes are fine, repeating them is not.

Avoiding costly mistakes doesn’t require perfection. It requires intentionality, clarity, and counsel. Make this checklist a habit, and you’ll build a reputation for wise, effective, and consistent decision-making.

You were MADE FOR MORE

Iamhenrylong

Making Wise Decisions – Part 1

Making Wise Decisions – Part 1

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In today’s fast-paced world, the quality of our decisions often determines the trajectory of our business and career. Yet, in a culture that prizes quick answers, we often forget one simple but powerful truth, wisdom is not innate; it is often requested, received, and applied.

Joseph, a young Hebrew prisoner, was brought before Pharaoh with one job, interpret a dream that confused Egypt’s greatest minds. Joseph said, “I cannot do it, but God will give Pharaoh the answer he desires.” (Genesis 41:16).

Joseph asked for wisdom beyond himself, and because he did, he saved a nation and rose to become a prime minister. Asking is not a weakness, it is wisdom. In the boardroom, on the factory floor, in crisis meetings, and strategy sessions, true leaders are those who pause to ask the right questions, seek the right counsel, and draw from deeper wells of wisdom.

The Value of Asking

  • Seeking wisdom ensures that decisions are not driven by ego, but by insight.
  • The best ideas arise when diverse minds engage. Asking for input, feedback, or fresh perspectives fosters a culture of innovation and resilience.
  • When you ask for wisdom, whether from data, people, or God, you’d make informed, sustainable decisions.
  • Wise entrepreneurs surround themselves with mentors, advisors, and even prayer partners who offer clarity in uncertainty.

As you go into this new week;

  • Pause Before You Decide.
  • Ask Boldly and Seek Humbly.
  • Create a Wisdom Culture. Encourage your team to ask questions, challenge assumptions, and value insight over speed.
  • Reflect Like Joseph: When faced with a challenge, don’t be afraid to say, “I may not know, but I know where to go for the answer.”

In a world driven by results, let’s remember that results that endure are often built on decisions made from the place of wisdom. And sometimes, the greatest power is in knowing when to pause, when to ask, and where to seek.

Just like Joseph, your moment of breakthrough may not come from knowing it all, but from asking the right person at the right time.

Beyond seeking wisdom from mentors and colleagues, cultivate a habit of asking God for wisdom, because His wisdom surpasses all others. When your decisions are guided by divine insight, you rise above limitations in life, career, and business. You cannot operate with wisdom from above and remain beneath.

You were MADE FOR MORE.
Iamhenrylong

Nehemiah’s Success Blueprint: The Power of Execution

Nehemiah’s Success Blueprint: The Power of Execution

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In a world that celebrates vision, strategy, and big dreams, there’s one quality that quietly separates the extraordinary from the average: execution. Vision without execution is hallucination which will only birth frustration. I learned that the hard way. Once, I lost out on something valuable simply because I delayed action. So, when I met my wife, I didn’t leave anything to chance. I gave it everything, dinners, late-night walks after vigil even when sleep begged for my eyes, and a few other moves I’ll keep to myself for now.

Nehemiah wasn’t a prophet, priest, or king. He was a cupbearer, an assistant in the palace of a foreign king. Yet he accomplished what generations before him failed to do: he rebuilt the broken walls of Jerusalem in just 52 days. He was an embodiment of the power of execution.

How was he able to execute so well?

1. He had a heart for what he was doing.

Nehemiah’s success began with a burden. When he heard the walls of Jerusalem were in ruins, he wept, fasted, and prayed (Nehemiah 1:4). Execution is fueled by conviction, not just ambition. He didn’t act from a place of ego or profit, but from a deep passion to see his people restored. It is often said that, if it doesn’t move your heart, you won’t move the needle.

2. He prayerfully planned

Nehemiah didn’t run off impulsively. He prayed for four months before even approaching the king. And when the moment came, he had a plan. He asked for permission, protection, and provision (Nehemiah 2:5-9). Successful execution requires spirit-led strategy. My counsel – Pray hard, Plan smart.

3. He remained focused until completion

Despite threats and distractions, including assassination plots, Nehemiah stayed laser focused. “I am doing a great work, and I cannot come down,” he told his enemies (Nehemiah 6:3). That level of focus led to the wall being finished in just 52 days. If you don’t value your assignment, distractions will become detours. Stay on the wall.

Nehemiah’s blueprint isn’t just ancient history, it’s a roadmap for anyone who wants to turn vision into reality. Whether you’re building a business, leading a team, raising a family, or writing a book, remember:

  • Prayer births vision.
  • Planning coordinates it.
  • Execution completes it.

You may not have a title. You may not have all the resources. But like Nehemiah, if you have conviction, clarity, and consistency, you too can rebuild broken walls and write a legacy that stands the test of time.

You were MADE FOR MORE

Iamhenrylong

Nehemiah’s Success Blueprint – Overcoming Opposition & Setbacks

Nehemiah’s Success Blueprint – Overcoming Opposition & Setbacks

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In every journey toward success, opposition is inevitable. Challenges often come dressed as critics (some, your friends), distractions, and even sabotage. But how we respond to them determines whether we move forward or fall back. Nehemiah, a Jewish cupbearer turned city builder, gives us a masterclass in how to overcome opposition without suffering a setback.

Sanballat and Tobiah mocked, ridiculed, and plotted against Nehemiah and his team. They questioned his competence, tried to sow fear among the workers, and even attempted to lure Nehemiah into traps under the guise of peace meetings.

Yet Nehemiah stayed focused. Despite intense opposition, the wall was completed in just 52 days.

What does Nehemiah’s story have to do with your business struggles, your job challenges, or your financial goals?

1. Stay Focused. Whether you’re building a startup, climbing the corporate ladder, or pursuing financial freedom, never forget why you started. Clarity of purpose will help you filter out distractions and withstand criticism. Nehemiah said, “I am doing a great work, and I cannot come down.” Let that be your response when distractions, discouragements, or delays try to pull you off course.

2. Expect and Prepare for Opposition. Opposition is not a sign you’re doing something wrong; often, it’s confirmation that you’re on the right path. Nehemiah expected resistance and prepared for it. In your business or career, equip yourself; upskill regularly, build emotional and mental resilience, and develop a support system of mentors, friends, or coaches.

3. Combine Faith with Strategy. Nehemiah prayed and posted guards. Faith isn’t passive, it’s fuel for strategic action. In your finances, don’t just hope for a breakthrough. Budget, save, invest, and educate yourself.

4. Refuse to Negotiate with Distraction. Sanballat invited Nehemiah to dialogue, a disguised sabotage. In your journey, not every invitation is an opportunity. Some are traps. Learn to say no to time-wasting meetings, unhealthy comparisons, toxic partnerships, shortcuts that compromise your values.

5. Finish What You Start. Nehemiah finished the wall. Completion brings credibility, confidence, and capacity for the next level. Don’t be known for great ideas and half-built dreams. Push through. Finish the course.

Nehemiah wasn’t a professional builder. He was a man with a burden, a vision, and relentless focus. Like him, you may not have all the qualifications, connections, or resources, but with the right mindset and divine backing, you can build what others thought impossible. When we were starting out with the building of the auditorium of RCCG Jesus Vessel, I did not know jack about building works, but I was so determined, prayed earnestly and God gave me the right team to work with.

Sanballat and Tobiah never stopped trying, but their opposition never became a setback. Why? Because Nehemiah didn’t allow it.

In your own life, you are the gatekeeper of progress. Stay alert.

You were MADE FOR MORE.

Iamhenrylong

Nehemiah’s Success Blueprint – Vision and Precision in Motion

Nehemiah’s Success Blueprint – Vision and Precision in Motion

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Every great accomplishment begins with a vision, something that burns quietly within before it ever makes a public appearance. Nehemiah’s journey to rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem is a masterclass in leadership, focus, and divine strategy. Zooming in on Nehemiah 2:12, we uncover the foundation of his success: a clear vision and calculated precision.

The Necessity of a Personal Vision

Nehemiah didn’t act on impulse. Long before bricks were laid or plans shared, he had a vision, which was birthed in the secret place of prayer and shaped by burden. “I had not told anyone what my God had put in my heart…” speaks to fact that it wasn’t from ambition. It was divine inspiration.

Nehemiah shows us that the greatest missions begin in the heart, not the boardroom. Before any external action, there was internal conviction.

One of the most profound aspects of Nehemiah’s leadership was his discretion. In a world that celebrates oversharing, Nehemiah teaches us the power of timing and silence. He inspected the walls at night, away from public eyes, not out of fear, but out of strategy. He understood that vision prematurely exposed is vision prematurely opposed. Not everyone can handle your “why” or “when” until the time is right. Nehemiah’s success was partly due to his ability to move quietly with clarity.

Strategic Assessment Before Execution

Another thing from that story is that Nehemiah did not rush into action. He surveyed the ruins, carefully evaluating what was broken before deciding what must be built. This step reflects not only precision but wisdom. He didn’t lead with assumptions but with assessment.

This principle remains timeless – before you rebuild anything, your life, business, ministry, or relationship, take time to understand what’s broken. The clarity you gain in private fuels your courage in public.

Nehemiah’s story reminds us that vision without precision is just ambition, which leads to frustration, and precision without vision is motion without meaning.

So what has God put in your heart to do?

Like Nehemiah, keep it close, plan it well, and then rise to build.

You were MADE FOR MORE.

Iamhenrylong

The Proverbs 31 Woman’s Integrity – A Non-Negotiable Recipe for Success.

The Proverbs 31 Woman’s Integrity – A Non-Negotiable Recipe for Success.

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We live in a time where success is often pursued at any cost. People are willing to do anything just to ‘make it’. I recently heard a story about a young building contractor in Nigeria who was given a contract by his elder brother living abroad. The task was to construct a modern, decent duplex. Unfortunately, the young contractor saw this as an opportunity to enrich himself and cut corners, using inferior materials. On the surface, the building looked impressive, but in reality, it was a disaster waiting to happen. When the elder brother finally arrived and saw the house, he was pleased and expressed his admiration. Then, he revealed something unexpected: the house was intended as a gift for their parents. If you were the young contractor, how would you feel? What would you do in that situation?

The story of the Proverbs 31 woman stands as a powerful reminder that integrity is the core that makes success endure. As modern professionals and entrepreneurs, there is much we can learn from her example. Integrity is about being honest and morally upright, even when no one is watching. The Proverbs 31 woman represents this quality.

One of the most profound examples of her integrity is seen in how she conducts her business. The Bible tells us that she carefully selects materials, works with willing hands, and delivers quality products to merchants. Her commitment to quality reflects her honesty and dedication to giving value, not just making a profit. Such a reputation for integrity makes her a trusted figure in the community.

Integrity builds trust, fosters loyalty, and strengthens relationships. Whether you are an entrepreneur, manager, or employee, integrity is crucial to building a reputable personal brand. People are more likely to do business with someone they trust, and that trust is earned through consistent honesty and ethical behavior.

If you would love to be a man/woman of authority, integrity is a must have. Professionals who uphold integrity earn the admiration of colleagues, clients, and partners.

How to Emulate Her Integrity

  • Be Transparent: Be open about your intentions and actions, whether in business deals or personal interactions. Don’t be a wolf in a sheep’s clothing.
  • Honor Your Commitments: Keep your promises, both big and small. Integrity often shows how you handle the little things. Let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes’ and your ‘No’ be ‘No’.
  • Prioritize Ethical Practices: Always choose the right path, even if it’s not the easiest. This builds a strong foundation for long-term success. Do the right thing.

Integrity is not just a personal value but a professional asset.

Always remember that when integrity becomes your identity, success is assured.

You were MADE FOR MORE.

Iamhenrylong

Proverbs 31 Woman – The Value of Diligence & Excellence

Proverbs 31 Woman – The Value of Diligence & Excellence

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In a world where quick success stories often dominate the narrative, it is easy to overlook the value of diligence and excellence, however, one of the most timeless principles of success can be seen from the story of the Proverbs 31 woman. She is an embodiment of hard work, commitment, and excellence. She is described as diligent in her duties, whether managing her household, engaging in trade, or caring for her family. She rises while it is still night, works tirelessly, and ensures that her endeavors bring profit and honor. Her excellence is not just in what she does, but in how she does it.

In 2012, I took a bold step into the security field as a Facility Security Officer at Procter & Gamble Nigeria, Ibadan plant, having been a Supply Chain guy for since joining P&G. At P&G, career progression was clear-cut, you were either a technician or a manager, determined by your academic qualifications. At that time, I only had a National Diploma, but I dreamed of becoming a manager one day.

This aspiration fueled a commitment to diligence and excellence. I enrolled for my BSc program in Criminology & Security Studies, began sharing security tips on LinkedIn every week based on what I had learnt and experienced, proactively networking with security managers from other organizations, and introducing creative solutions at work – weekly security bulletin, etc. My efforts did not go unnoticed, I earned the respect and admiration of colleagues, even those beyond the Ibadan plant.

In the words of Aristotle, “Excellence is not an act, but a habit. You are what you repeatedly do.” Four years later, in 2016, I received a message on LinkedIn from a recruiter who had noticed my passion and dedication. They offered me the opportunity to step into a managerial role. After a successful interview, I got the job, a moment that marked the beginning of a new chapter in my career.

Key Lessons from the Proverbs 31 Woman and My Journey

  1. Vision Fuels Diligence: Just as the Proverbs 31 woman planned and worked intentionally, I pursued excellence even before the opportunity came.
  2. Diligence Pays: Diligence in small tasks laid the foundation for greater responsibilities and better renumeration.
  3. Excellence Commands Attention: Consistently delivering quality work attracts recognition and new opportunities.

One contemporary example of an entrepreneur who models the Proverbs 31 woman is Mrs Ibukun Awosika. Known for her integrity, hard work, and excellence, she has built a legacy in the corporate world while mentoring others. Like the Proverbs 31 woman, she balances her roles as a leader, entrepreneur, and family woman with purpose and diligence.

It must be mentioned that success is not just about talent or opportunity but about consistency, excellence, and diligence. When we put in the work with purpose and passion, recognition and success inevitably follow.

The marriage of diligence and excellence will produce relevance.

You were MADE FOR MORE.

Iamhenrylong

Joseph’s Crisis Management Blueprint – Summary

Joseph’s Crisis Management Blueprint – Summary

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During my period of gross indebtedness that I went through, I had two options – cry and complain or face the music. I had a plan which was to explore available options. I eventually found a creditor that was willing to consolidate my loans and arrange a flexible repayment schedule for me. I went for that option, pressure reduced, and 6 months into the 24-month term, I was able to pay off all my debts.

In an unpredictable world, the ability to manage crisis effectively is crucial. Having a plan for challenges can make all the difference.

Looking at our main character, Joseph, when Pharaoh had a disturbing dream about seven years of plenty followed by seven years of famine, none of his advisors could interpret it. But Joseph, empowered by divine wisdom, not only interpreted the dream correctly but also presented a strategic solution, and in doing so, recommended the employment of someone with his own resume, hence why it was a quick call for Pharaoh to give Joseph the job.

Wisdom in crisis management often involves preparing before the crisis hits.

Why Wisdom Matters in Crisis Management;.

  • Wisdom empowers leaders to anticipate challenges and prepare accordingly. Joseph’s insight into Egypt’s future needs positioned the nation to survive, and also thrive during famine.
  • Wisdom empowers leaders to anticipate challenges and prepare accordingly. Joseph’s insight into Egypt’s future needs positioned the nation to survive, and also thrive—during famine.
  • Wisdom is not just about identifying problems but also crafting practical, proactive solutions. Joseph didn’t just warn about the famine; he devised a plan to mitigate its impact. I did not just secure loan refinancing; I had a plan to generate funds for quicker offsetting of the loan.

In today’s VUCA (Volatile Uncertain Complex Ambiguous) business climate, wisdom means being proactive, resilient, and adaptive. Whether you’re steering a company through economic downturns or managing personal setbacks, remember Joseph’s lesson – Preparation and execution are the hallmarks of wise leadership.

The next time you face a crisis, pause and ask yourself: Am I reacting impulsively, or am I applying wisdom to foresee, prepare, and execute? Your answer could make all the difference.

You were MADE FOR MORE.

Iamhenrylong

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