27/12/2025
As this year comes to a close, many may not rush toward celebration — some may be pausing to just breathe.
This was a year where many struggled quietly — showing up daily while carrying anxiety, grief, uncertainty, or fear.
A year where many felt drained, giving endlessly at work, at church, and at home, until there was little left for themselves.
For some, the weight may be deeply personal:
Persistent anxiety that made rest difficult.
Physical illness that demanded strength you did not always feel you had.
Ongoing financial stress, requiring difficult decisions and silent worry.
Others may have faced relational hurt — friendships that took more than they gave, and for some, church hurt, where places meant for refuge became sources of pain.
As this season unfolds, you may see others sharing accomplishments, milestones, and gratitude lists. And while those moments are worth celebrating, please remember this:
For some, the greatest achievement of this year was survival.
If you got through the year despite exhaustion, disappointment, loss, or pain — that is a victory.
If you kept going when you wanted to stop — that matters. Celebrate your wins, even if they look quiet, unseen, or small.
At Beth-Rapha, we honour the courage it takes to endure seasons like these. Healing does not mean the year was easy; it means you are still here, still choosing hope, still open to restoration.
As we look toward 2026, may you enter the new year with gentleness toward yourself:
• Release the pressure to “fix everything” at once
• Set boundaries that protect your well-being
• Seek support when the load becomes heavy
• Make space for rest, reflection, and prayer
• Trust that God is at work, even when progress feels slow
“The Lord restores my soul.” (Psalm 23:3)
May the God who carried you through this year continue to strengthen, guide, and restore you in the year ahead. 🤍
