Diri Urges Bayelsans To Embrace Thanksgiving As A Way Of Life
Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has called on the people of the state to make thanksgiving a continuous way of life, saying it is key to attracting and sustaining God's glory in their lives and across the state.
The governor made the call on Sunday during the Mid-Year Thanksgiving Service of the Refined People's Assembly held at Opolo, Yenagoa, the Bayelsa State capital.
Represented by his deputy, Dr. Peter Akpe, Governor Diri urged Bayelsans to appreciate God not only for answered prayers but also for His unseen mercies and even unanswered prayers, stressing that God alone knows what is best for everyone in every circumstance.
He expressed confidence that if the people continue to cultivate a lifestyle of gratitude, God's glory upon Bayelsa would continue to increase and positively impact the entire nation.
Dr. Akpe, who also served as the guest preacher at the service, highlighted divine restoration, incredible multiplication, supernatural provision, and victory over enemies as some of the blessings that accompany genuine thanksgiving.
Drawing from several biblical passages, including Genesis 32:10, Psalm 100:4, and Jeremiah 30:19–20, as well as the lives of Jacob, David, Jesus Christ, and the ten lepers, the deputy governor encouraged Christians to continually reflect on God's faithfulness throughout their life's journey.
According to him, thanking God by faith regardless of present challenges opens the door to divine healing, promotion, restoration, and greater accomplishments in life and career.
Governor Diri also commended the Christian community in Bayelsa State, particularly the leadership and members of the Refined People's Assembly, for their steadfast prayers and spiritual support for the state, urging them to remain committed to their work of faith.
Speaking on behalf of the governor, Dr. Akpe said: "I thank God, your pastor, and all of you for what you are doing for our state through your prayers. As you continue to thank God, His glory will not depart from you or from Bayelsa State. You will move from one level of glory to another, and as Bayelsa prospers under God's glory, Nigeria will also benefit.
"Thank God for His unseen mercies and even for unanswered prayers because He knows what is best for us. Thanksgiving brings divine restoration, incredible multiplication, divine provision, and God Himself will arise to fight your battles."
The highlight of the service was a special thanksgiving session led by the Founder and Senior Pastor of the Refined People's Assembly, Dr. Daddy-Ken Bitere, alongside members of the church.
Among dignitaries present were the Acting Chief of Staff, Government House, Yenagoa, Mr. Irorodamie Komonibo; the Commissioner for Community Development, Hon. Alfred Belmote Watson; the Special Adviser to the Governor on Religious Matters, Rev. Asingba Godspower; the Special Adviser to the Governor on Women-in-Politics, Hon. Bibian George; and other senior government officials.
The event reaffirmed the Bayelsa State Government's emphasis on faith, gratitude, and prayer as essential pillars for the state's continued peace, progress, and development.
