The Strength of Being a Helper

In a world that often celebrates independence and self-sufficiency, the role of a helper may seem secondary or undervalued.

Yet, in the Bible, being a helper carries a much deeper and powerful meaning.

The first mention of this concept appears in Genesis 2:18, when God declares,

“It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.”

Eve, as the first helper, was created not to be beneath Adam, but to stand alongside him, offering strength, support, and partnership. What’s even more telling is that this word is used multiple times in Scripture to describe God Himself as our helper.

In Psalm 33:20, we read: We wait in hope for the Lord; he is our help and our shield.

God, in His infinite power, assumes the role of helper, showing that being a helper is not a sign of weakness but one of immense strength and purpose.

Being a helper means offering support, wisdom, and strength in times of need. It is to stand in the gap, ready to help others overcome challenges and find encouragement. Just as God comes alongside us as our helper in moments of weakness or uncertainty, we, too, are called to be helpers to those around us—whether in our families, friendships, or communities.

Let’s be clear: helping is not about doing for others what they can do for themselves. It’s about recognizing when someone needs a hand, a listening ear, or a word of encouragement, and stepping in with grace and humility.

The role of a helper is about making others stronger, not dependent.

There’s a misconception that helpers are less important, but Scripture consistently shows us the opposite. The role of a helper is one of great dignity and honour. When we serve others, we reflect the very heart of God. Just as He is our helper, we are called to model His character by coming alongside those in need.

Helping is not a passive or inferior role; it’s an active, God-given calling. We see in Deuteronomy 33:29 that the helper is depicted as a warrior-like figure:

Blessed are you, Israel! Who is like you, a people saved by the Lord? He is your shield and helper and your glorious sword.

Here, God doesn’t help from the sidelines; He actively fights for His people.

In the same way, being a helper requires boldness - a willingness to step in when others are struggling and offer your strength as a shield.

When we help, we participate in God’s work of restoration, healing, and encouragement. Whether through prayer, practical support, or emotional comfort, being a helper brings God's presence into the lives of others.

If you’ve ever doubted the significance of your role as a helper, let me encourage you: the world needs more helpers. In a society that prizes self-sufficiency, being a helper reminds us that we are created for community, relationship, and mutual support.

Remember the words of Psalm 121:1-2:

I lift up my eyes to the mountains—where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.

Just as God is our ever-present help, you too have been equipped to be a source of strength and support to those around you. Your willingness to step into this role is not a sign of weakness, but a reflection of God’s divine purpose for your life.

So, whether you’re helping a friend through a difficult time, offering support to a family member, or lending a hand in your community, take pride in the calling God has placed on your life. You are doing the work of God by lifting others up, strengthening them with your love, wisdom, and faith.

Being a helper is an active, God-given calling. You are a vital part of God’s plan to bring hope, healing, and strength to the world. Just as God is our helper, you are empowered to be a beacon of strength, a provider of support, and a reflection of God’s love to those around you.

So, embrace your identity as a helper. Let your heart be filled with courage, and your hands be ready to help. In doing so, you reflect the very nature of God, and there is no higher calling than that.

You are uniquely positioned to make a difference in someone’s life today. Open your heart to the opportunities around you, whether it’s offering a listening ear, a word of encouragement, or a helping hand.

Be available to help and watch how God uses you as a vessel of His love and strength. Just as God is always available to us, let’s be ready to be there for others, lifting them up with the same grace and strength He gives us.