By Staff Reporter, Yenagoa
Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has encouraged residents of the state to make thanksgiving a way of life, saying gratitude to God is essential for sustaining peace, progress and divine blessings.
The governor made the call on Sunday during the mid-year thanksgiving service of the Refined People’s Assembly in Opolo, Yenagoa. He was represented by his deputy, Dr. Peter Akpe.Speaking as the guest preacher, Akpe urged Bayelsans to thank God for both visible and unseen blessings, as well as for answered and unanswered prayers, noting that only God knows what is ultimately best for every individual.
He said thanksgiving attracts divine provision, restoration and victory, citing biblical examples including Jacob, David, the 10 lepers and Jesus Christ. He also referenced Genesis 32:10 and Psalm 100:4 to encourage Christians to remain grateful regardless of their circumstances. “Thank God for His unseen mercies so that He will not withdraw them from you. Thank God even for unanswered prayers,” Akpe said.
Governor Diri also commended the Christian community, particularly the leadership and members of the Refined People’s Assembly, for their continued prayers for the state and urged them to remain steadfast in their faith.The thanksgiving service was led by the church’s Founder and Senior Pastor, Dr. Daddy-Ken Bitere, and was attended by senior government officials, including Acting Chief of Staff Irorodamie Komonibo, Commissioner for Community Development Alfred Belemote, and the Governor’s Special Adviser on Religious Matters, Rev. Godspower Asingba.
