By Grace Ben Kato
Bishop John Ibenu of Chapel of Freedom International Churches Lokoja, has emphasised the importance of gratitude during the church’s annual thanksgiving service.
He encouraged Christians to focus on appreciating God for their blessings rather than dwelling on what they lack
Bishop Ibenu reminded the congregation to reflect on God’s goodness throughout the year and express thanks.
He also urged them to look forward to a better 2025, trusting in God’s providence.
The bishop specifically mentioned three things to be thankful for: the gift of life, peace in Nigeria, and stability in Kogi State.
He acknowledged that even those who don’t believe in God should recognise the divine hand maintaining peace in Nigeria.
“We all give thanks to God for the gift of life. Two, we are thankful for our country, Nigeria, for the peace we enjoy. Nobody should take this peace for granted. When you see what happened in other nations, people running up and down. The stability we have is from God, and is of God. Even those who don’t believe there is God should know there is a hand, beyond the human hand, that is keeping Nigeria.
“On this thanksgiving day, being alive from January to December is enough to say God, we thank you. From the Governor to the least person, for the rest of this year, let us thank God for all He has done for us. Nobody can have everything they want, be thankful for what you have.
Count your blessings, name them one by one, you will discover there are more that God has done for you that you have not seen. So, let us be thankful for everything – for the government, for your family, for the society, and to God who is giving us peace, stability, tranquility and freedom of worship, he said