New Things
New Year...Help Counts
Never been afraid of help when times get hard?
Every hand extended makes the journey less dark
We all need support to make it through each day
Yesterday's kindness becomes tomorrow's strength
Embracing help has brought us here
Together, sharing grace and light
Remember: both giving and receiving make us whole
I think we often underestimate the importance of help. Not the trendy, emotional sentiments about it, but the fundamental truth of how crucial unity and support are to our lives, directly or indirectly. A wise king once said, "Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom" (Psalm 90:12). We mark our lives with days, months, and years—birthdays, anniversaries, holidays, and more—to celebrate, stay accountable, and express gratitude. Without these markers, life might feel like an endless dream without direction.
While we can count our days, we cannot fully quantify the help we’ve received—big or small, obvious or subtle. But we can look back and recognize the progress we've made. Even if you feel stuck, consider this: you’re alive. That alone is a testament to the support you’ve had along the way. A stranger’s kind words, a friend sharing their space, a family member’s financial or emotional encouragement, a colleague offering a snack—all of these moments are acts of help.
We should be grateful for the help we've received and also for the help we've been able to give—whether it’s sharing, showing up, offering resources, or simply lightening someone’s load.
As James 1:17 reminds us, “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above.” God, the ultimate source of help, makes all these things possible.
Did you receive help last year? Or did you truly make it through 2024 entirely on your own? As we move forward, let’s remember the importance of giving and receiving help. Mutual support matters...Recognising the help we’ve received and being open to giving and accepting help is a big deal. Often, it’s the small, quiet acts of kindness that carry us through.
Above all, let your first help come from God, and this year will be filled with peace and purpose.
HAPPY NEW YEAR 🎺
May 2025 be full of timely help and favours, IJN. Amen
Amen!!