Years ago, when we were much younger and attending Block Rosary—a Catholic prayer group aimed at bringing children closer to God and Mary, the mother of Jesus—something powerful happened that has stayed with me to this day.
During the “okwu mgbado ume” (words of encouragement), our then-president and brother asked:
“What can you do to help God?”
Of course, as kids, we all wanted to win the prize—biscuits! So, everyone shouted different answers. But none of us got it right.
The answer was simple: nothing.
✨ What We Do, We Do for Ourselves
Whatever we do—whether it’s praying, helping others, or doing good—we ultimately do it for our own growth. God, in His infinite mercy and joy, delights in seeing us thrive, but His joy is not dependent on our actions.
He is God—unchanging and ever-loving. Even when we fall short, He never fails.
đź’ˇ A God Who Welcomes Without Judgment
One of the most reassuring verses in the Bible is from Isaiah 1:18:
“Come now, let us settle the matter. Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow.”
This tells us that God is always ready to forgive and restore us, no matter how deep our faults. But there’s one important step:
We must first forgive ourselves.
🧠The Danger of Self-Guilt and Hatred
Self-guilt and hatred often stem from the unrealistic belief that we must be flawless. But to be human is to make mistakes.
The real strength lies in your ability to:
- Fall and get back up
- Reflect and realign
- Forgive and move forward
If you’ve wronged someone, seek their forgiveness, give them space to heal, and rebuild the relationship. Likewise, when you’ve gone off course, call yourself to order, and forgive yourself too.
⚠️ The Mental Burden of Guilt
Too many people are silently suffering because they can’t let go of a past mistake.
Some even end up in mental health facilities, overwhelmed by self-inflicted guilt.
Remember the story of the Chicken Man—a man who tragically lost his family in a fire and never recovered emotionally. His inability to forgive himself became his undoing.
Please, forgive yourself at all costs.
🔄 Turn Guilt Into Purpose
Instead of living in guilt, channel that experience into something meaningful.
If you’re not proud of your past behavior, join a campaign or cause that combats it.
I once read Joyce Meyer’s “Me and My Big Mouth”. She began to truly live when she forgave her father—and more importantly—herself. Imagine if she’d let guilt define her life. We might never have known her as the best-selling author and speaker she is today.
🔥 Don’t Burn in Self-Pity
Pick yourself up.
Seek help.
Pray.
Talk to a counselor.
Take it one day at a time.
When you feel hopeless, listen to songs like:
- “It Is Well With My Soul” by Horatio Spafford – written after he lost his wife and children
- “My Life Is in Your Hands” by Kirk Franklin – a powerful reminder of God’s presence
These songs were born out of tragedy, but they carry messages of hope and strength.
🏗️ Build a Mansion of Hope
Use the stones that life throws at you—not to build walls, but to build a mansion of hope, not just for yourself, but for others who need light in dark times.
🙌 Never Give Up on Yourself or on God
No matter what happens, God has not given up on you—and neither should you.
His love is deeper than your mistakes, and His arms are always open.
đź’¬ Final Thought: What Can You Do to Help God?
I leave you with the same question we were asked as children:
“What can you do to help God?”
Leave your answers in the comments. Let’s reflect together.
God bless you, and remember to always forgive yourself.
With love and peace,
Your friend and brother,
Onuora Obodoechi
Pen it down. 