Darius Uzabakiriho

EBENEZER: THUS FAR THE LORD HAS HELPED ME “Then Samuel took a stone and set it up between Mizpah and Shen. He named it Ebenezer, saying, ‘Thus far the LORD has helped us.’” — 1 Samuel 7:12 “The LORD has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy.”— Psalm 126:3 I was born on a Sunday, the Lord’s Day. My dear parents had just returned from church, where they had lifted their hearts to God in prayer, when the Lord blessed them with a baby boy. Overwhelmed with gratitude, they named me NSENGEYUKURI, a name that stands as a lifelong testimony to the truth, faithfulness, and unfailing goodness of the God they worship. From the very first day of my life, my name has carried a powerful message: God hears, God answers, and God remains faithful. To my beloved parents, I honour you for your faith, prayers, sacrifices, and the godly foundation upon which my life was built. Your love remains an enduring blessing in my life. May the Lord richly reward you. Today, as I celebrate another year of life, I bow before Almighty God with humility and profound gratitude. Looking back, I see His hand in every season, His grace through every challenge, His protection in every danger, and His faithfulness at every step. “From birth I have relied on You; You brought me forth from my mother’s womb. I will ever praise You.” — Psalm 71:6 Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of life, health, strength, and salvation through Jesus Christ, my Lord and Saviour. Thank You for the battles You fought on my behalf, the doors You opened, and even those You closed in Your infinite wisdom. Thank You for answered prayers and for the seasons of waiting that strengthened my faith and taught me to trust Your perfect timing. I acknowledge that I am a product of God’s grace. Whatever I am, whatever I possess, and whatever I have accomplished are testimonies of His mercy, favour, and faithfulness. I take no glory for myself, for all that I have become is possible because of His goodness. “What shall I return to the LORD for all His goodness to me?” — Psalm 116:12 As I embrace another year, my prayer is for greater wisdom, stronger faith, a humble heart, and the grace to fulfil God's purpose for my life. My future is in His hands, my hope is in His promises, and my life belongs to Him. Today, I celebrate life, grace, purpose, and the faithfulness of God. I celebrate not because my journey has been without challenges, but because through every challenge, the Lord has sustained me. EBENEZER! Thus far, the Lord has helped me. He has been faithful in the past, present in my today, and worthy of my trust for all the days to come. To God alone be all the glory, honour, thanksgiving, and praise, now and forevermore. In the mighty name of Jesus Christ, I pray. AMEN.