DO YOUR BEST

God Will Do The Rest

by Koh Swee Kin. She worships at Hakka Methodist Church. She is thankful to have the contributions and support of Oi Lin and Anne on her trip, and in the writing of this article.

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Some of the staff of SPMS.

My introduction to St Paul Methodist School (SPMS) came through a chance encounter with the Director, Mr David Chan, in December 2024. He invited me to visit the school, observe lessons, and share my years of teaching experience with the staff.

With that invitation, I extended the opportunity to two of my long-lost friends. In 2023, I had unexpectedly reconnected with Oi Lin, a friend from our teacher training days. Around the same time, I also got in touch with Anne, a former colleague. Though all of us had left teaching over a decade ago and felt unsure of how we could contribute, we decided to trust God to lead us.

Swee Kin sharing with the staff on good classroom management and teaching pedagogies after our observations.

On 16 February 2025, we departed for Timor-Leste with God’s peace in our hearts. We had no concrete plans— just a willingness to depend entirely on His guidance.

God is indeed good and faithful. As we began planning for teacher observations, He continually showed us that His plans are far greater than ours. Each day, we witnessed how things fell into place. It brought us such joy to serve Him.

Teachers conducted Math games at the Math Learning stations.

We were able to share classroom management practices and pedagogical strategies in Mathematics and English. God granted us favour with the staff; most of the teachers were receptive to our feedback and willing to make improvements to their teaching. It was deeply encouraging to see children enjoying their lessons—and the teachers rediscovering the joy of teaching.

Over the three weeks at SPMS, we had a truly meaningful and fruitful time interacting with the teachers and students. One highlight was setting up Mathematics learning stations for the Primary 1 to 3 classes, allowing students to explore Maths through games and hands-on activities. The teachers also experienced these methods for themselves, opening their eyes to a more engaging and interactive way of teaching.

Teachers conducted Math games at the Math Learning stations.

This journey has taught us to put our full trust in the Lord. As we step out in obedience, He equips and enables us to do His work.

“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” 1 Peter 4:10

Teachers experienced hands-on learning Math through activities and games.

We are truly grateful to God for the opportunity to use our teaching experiences to bless the staff at SPMS. It was a joy to see the sparkle in the teachers’ eyes as they tried new strategies to engage their students.

We’ve also learnt this powerful truth: God can use anyone to fulfil His purpose—regardless of age or experience. Though we were unsure if we could be of help, God used us to bless others. He can do the same for you.

Teachers experienced hands-on learning Math through activities and games.

To retired principals and teachers: we encourage you to consider coming alongside the staff at SPMS. Share your knowledge, your experiences, and your heart for education. Help equip the next generation of educators. You just need to do your best—and God will do the rest. We’ve experienced His wonder-working power, and we hope you will too.

You just need to do your best— and God will do the rest.

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About St Paul Methodist School, Timor-Leste

A school established by MMS to provide formal education with Christian morals and principles for children from remote villages. To learn more, visit www.spmstl.org or contact us today.