Hello, everyone. I hope this post finds you well. First and foremost, I give all credit to my Lord Jesus Christ, who has been with me every step of the way in my academic journey.

The Story of a Vow

I've recently realized that Jesus often teaches profound truths in the most unexpected seasons of life. For me, that truth has come alive through the ancient story of Hannah in 1 Samuel, chapter 2. As I stand on the cusp of a significant new chapter—beginning my PhD Candidature at Macquarie University in January 2027—her story resonates deeply with me.

For a long time, the idea of pursuing a PhD seemed like a distant and daunting dream. The journey was filled with intellectual uncertainty, the immense weight of the unknown, and the constant struggle with imposter syndrome. It felt like a deep and personal yearning, a potential waiting to be realized. I've spent countless hours poring over articles, grappling with research ideas, dealing with rejections, and facing a kind of intellectual despair that only those who've walked this path can truly understand. It's a season of intense preparation, but also intense vulnerability.

A Divine Reversal and Breakthrough

In those moments of wrestling, much like Hannah pouring out her heart before the Lord, I found myself making a different kind of "vow." Not just a vow to earn a degree, but a commitment to dedicate this intellectual pursuit, my mind, my energy, and my future research, to God's glory, Jesus’ glory. This isn't just about gaining a title or personal prestige; it's about using the innate ability, gifts and opportunities Jesus has given me to seek truth, to contribute meaningfully, and to serve others through the knowledge I hope to uncover. This academic journey, I declared, would be His; for sure.

And just as God reversed Hannah's despair into a joyful song, Jesus has begun to orchestrate a reversal in my own story. I'm thrilled, humbled, and incredibly excited to share that I will be commencing my PhD Candidature at Macquarie University in January 2027! Amen. I have secured my place at Macquarie University (Thank you, Jesus.). This isn't just an acceptance; it feels like a divine appointment. It's the "breakthrough," the "child" I have been praying and working towards. The uncertainty is giving way to a profound sense of purpose, and the barrenness of waiting is transforming into the fertile ground of a new academic journey.

The Meaning of Radical Obedience

Hannah's radical obedience in giving Samuel back to the Lord, and her subsequent radical blessing, is a powerful reminder for me as I embark on this path. My "Samuel" is this PhD program – this precious intellectual endeavour. My commitment is to continue to approach it with an open hand, dedicated to God's will.

For a prospective PhD student, radical obedience involves a commitment to three core principles: integrity in research, humility in learning, and a purpose that extends beyond the degree. It means conducting all research with the utmost ethics and honesty, driven by a genuine pursuit of truth rather than personal ambition. This pursuit also requires a posture of humility, remaining teachable and open to correction while always acknowledging the source of one's abilities. Ultimately, radical obedience means recognizing that the PhD is not just a credential, but a platform to use knowledge to serve others, enlighten the world, and create a meaningful impact in alignment with God's will.

I believe that when I commit my endeavours to Jesus in this way, the blessings I receive extend far beyond the immediate achievement. It's a peace that transcends academic pressure, a deeper meaning in every challenge, and the potential for my work to bear fruit in ways I can't even imagine right now. Just as Hannah received not only Samuel but also five more children, I trust that God's blessings on this dedicated journey will be abundant and multi-faceted.

My Next Steps

So, as I prepare to step into this new season at Macquarie University, my heart is full of gratitude. It's a testament to the God who truly reverses stories – taking my "barrenness" and filling it with His purpose, taking my "vows" and honouring them with radical blessings. 

My next step is to secure funding from the Indonesia Endowment Fund for Education (LPDP) in January 2026 and/or the Australia Awards Scholarship in February 2026. I have faith that Jesus will help me in this process, just as He did when I secured my offer at Macquarie University.

I invite you to follow along with me on this journey. I plan to share updates, insights, and the highs and lows of the PhD experience right here on the blog.

Have you ever experienced God reversing a story in your own life? What "vow" are you being called to make in your current season? I'd love to hear your thoughts.