Niger Delta
Diri urges gratitude for unanswered prayers
Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa has urged the people of Bayelsa to thank God not only for answered prayers but also for unanswered ones, saying only the Almighty knows what is ultimately best for everyone.
Diri made the call on Sunday at the Mid-Year Thanksgiving Service of Refined People’s Assembly in Opolo, Yenagoa.
Represented by his Deputy, Mr Peter Akpe, the governor said making thanksgiving a way of life would enable the people to continually attract and sustain God’s glory upon their lives and the state.
Diri expressed optimism that as the people of Bayelsa continued to practise thanksgiving, God’s glory upon the state would expand and positively impact Nigeria.
Akpe, who also served as Guest Preacher, said thanksgiving brings divine restoration, incredible multiplication, divine provision and victory over challenges, urging Christians to remain grateful in all situations.
“As a child of God, I encourage you to thank God for His unseen mercies so that He will not withdraw it from you.
”Thank God for even unanswered prayers. And when you thank God, what happens?
“There is divine restoration, incredible multiplication and divine provisions. Secondly, there will be punishment for your enemies because God will arise and take over your battles as we can find in Jeremiah Chapter 30:19-20,” he stated.
Quoting from Genesis 32:10, Psalm 100:4 and other scriptures, Akpe urged believers to reflect on God’s grace and faithfulness throughout their life journeys.
He said appreciating God by faith in spite of current circumstances could serve as a pathway to sound health, promotion and the ability to achieve greater exploits in chosen careers.
Akpe commended the Christian community in the state, especially the leadership and members of Refined People’s Assembly, for their prayers and encouraged them to sustain their faith-based activities.
He assured them that continued thanksgiving would transform destinies, prevent believers from descending into shame and move them from one realm of glory to another.
Highpoint of the service was special thanksgiving by the leadership and members of Refined People’s Assembly, led by its Founder and Senior Pastor, Daddy-Ken Bitere.
The Acting Chief of Staff, Government House, Yenagoa, Mr Irorodamie Komonibo, Commissioner for Community Development, Mr Alfred Belemote, among others attended the thanksgiving service.
