Lyrics
Verse 1
Nina haja nawe Kila saa; Hawezi mwingine Kunifaa.
Chorus (x5)
Yesu, nakuhitaji Vivyo kila saa! Niwezeshe, Mwokozi, Nakujia.
Verse 2
Nina haja nawe; Kaa nami, Na maonjo haya, Hayaumi.
Verse 3
Nina haja nawe; Kila hali, Maisha ni bure, Uli mbali.
Verse 4
Nina haja nawe, Nifundishe Na ahadi zako Zifikishe.
Verse 5
Nina haja nawe, Mweza yote, Ni wako kabisa Siku zote.
Credits & Song Information
Video
Meaning & Inspiration
“Nina haja nawe” is a Swahili hymn of dependence, sung here by Doudou Manengu, and its theme closely follows the well-known English hymn “I need Thee every hour.” Its first line says “Nina haja nawe kila saa,” I need You every hour, and adds that no other can help in the same way.
The chorus turns the confession into a prayer: “Yesu, nakuhitaji vivyo kila saa,” Jesus, I need You every hour, and asks the Savior to give strength as the singer comes to Him. The later verses ask Him to stay near so that trials do not harm, say that life is empty when He is far, ask to be taught, and ask Him to bring His promises to pass. The last verse gives the singer entirely to the Almighty: “ni wako kabisa siku zote,” I am Yours fully, always.
The prayer is close to John 15:5, “without me ye can do nothing,” and to Hebrews 4:16, which invites believers to come to the throne of grace for help in time of need.
Related Scripture
- John 15:5 “Without me ye can do nothing”
- Hebrews 4:16 Coming to the throne of grace to find help in time of need
- Psalm 73:28 It is good to draw near to God