Contributed by Adeline Ting • Jul 16, 2024
I have a story to tell. When I was 17 years old (a long time ago!), I surrendered my future plans into God’s hands. It was between a Diploma course in a local university or the ‘dreaded’ Form 6. My grades were good but Form 6 would really put me to the test. When my application to the local university was rejected, I was disappointed. Nevertheless, I accepted that God may have other plans for me. But then, surprisingly, I was called back two weeks later for the ‘second intake’ and given the course that I had applied for (Diploma in Agriculture). The jubilant me enrolled and was prepared to undertake the 2-year diploma course. Little did I know, God has opened another door for me. There was the option to be upgraded to a Bachelor’s degree! Contrary to my peers, I did not opt for other more ‘glamorous’ courses (by the worldly standards). Instead, I remained deeply rooted in the studies of plants, soil, insects and microbes. God put many things in place that I could not ignore the signs. I followed what the Lord had laid before me, and took up a Bachelor’s study in Horticultural Science. And two years later, a Master’s degree in Agriculture. God is good!
Upon the completion of my Master’s degree, I was at cross-roads, again. I turned to God and surrendered my future to Him. I applied for a scholarship to further my degree, as well as a position in an agricultural advisory company. I believed that if any of these plans were aligned to God’s plan, He would carry me through. To make a long story short, I worked 4 months in the company, and left to pursue a higher degree with a scholarship. And many years down the road, I am now an academician with a very different set of knowledge and skills because of my area of specialisation. And the icing on the cake? Well, the advisory company which I worked for in my early days, is now my research collaborative partner! Praise God, indeed He is good!
Looking back, I am ever grateful for God’s mercies. He knew that I love studying but I can only go far if there were financial sponsors. He knew that I can do more in a specific space, so He transformed the way I think and view things so that I love working with plants, microbes and the environment. I am ever grateful for all that I have been blessed with as I see and trust God in the big and little things in my life. I seek Him always in all that I do, so that I may understand His will and purpose for me in life. And I know that God’s plan for me has never been to harm me, but to give hope and a future (Jeremiah 29:11).
I worship God with all my heart and soul for I have experienced His mercies. His mercies extend beyond mere compassion and kindness, but in comforting, caring, healing and loving a mere mortal like me. And the greatest part, I am assured His mercies will never come to an end, they are new every morning (Lamentations 3:22-23). So, whether I am singing or not, my heart shall always ‘Praise the Lord for His faithfulness, for His mercy endures forever!’