Read about this class:

In a heartfelt class led by Bishop Benjamin, believers were encouraged to embrace the true meaning of thanksgiving—a practice that not only honors God’s saving grace but also transforms our lives in times of trial. Drawing on scriptural truths, powerful imagery from the story of Jonah, and personal testimonies, Bishop Benjamin called on everyone to build their strength on the unshakable foundation of God’s mercy.

A Prayer of Gratitude and Intercession

The session opened with a sincere prayer thanking God for His provision and for the vision of GoldCare, led by Doctor Simone Gold. Believers lifted their voices, asking God to bless every doctor, nurse, patient, and staff member involved in this ministry. They prayed that, in this season, God would place them on firm, unmovable ground—reminding them that true strength comes from Him.

The Call for Humility, Prayer, and Turning from Wickedness

Bishop Benjamin referenced 2 Chronicles 7:14, emphasizing that if God’s people humble themselves, pray, seek His face, and turn from their wicked ways, He will:

• Hear from heaven,
• Forgive their sins, and
• Heal the land.

This powerful promise challenges us to examine our hearts and our actions. It reminds us that our individual and collective conduct has a direct impact on the world around us—even the earth itself.

Lessons from Jonah: A Type of Christ

The story of Jonah serves as a vivid example of deliverance and transformation. Although Jonah’s experience in the belly of the great fish was a result of his disobedience, his three days there became a time of deep reflection and heartfelt prayer. Bishop Benjamin explained that Jonah’s plea—“I will cry unto the LORD, my rock”—teaches us that when we find ourselves in our darkest moments, we must cry out to God from a place of strength. Like Jonah’s time in the fish, our affliction can lead us to a greater understanding of God’s saving power, much like Christ’s own three days in the grave foreshadow His resurrection.

True Thanksgiving: More Than Superficial Gratitude

True thanksgiving, as taught in this session, goes beyond merely saying “thank you.” It is a sincere, deep-seated response to the realization that salvation is entirely of the Lord. Bishop Benjamin reminded the congregation that our grateful hearts should acknowledge that:

• Our strength comes from God, not from material wealth or worldly success.
• Our thankfulness is born from deliverance. When we can truly say “Thank you, Jesus,” it means we recognize how He has rescued us from our afflictions.

He stressed that if we are not thankful, it might be a sign that God still needs to work in that area of our lives.

Unity, Healing, and Blessing Others

The teaching also addressed the importance of unity and extending our blessings to others—even our enemies. Bishop Benjamin recalled how David, despite facing betrayal and hardship, trusted in God so completely that he was able to bless those who opposed him. In today’s divided society, especially during Thanksgiving, it is vital to come together as one family in Christ. Our collective thanksgiving not only brings healing to our hearts but also creates an atmosphere in which God’s favor and mercy can flow over our communities and our nation.

Personal Testimonies and a Call to Action

Throughout the class, members shared moving testimonies about how God had transformed their lives:

• Some recounted their personal battles—whether with addiction, illness, or deep family strife—and how a posture of thanksgiving had been their turning point.
• Others spoke about the relief and deliverance they experienced during times of crisis, much like Jonah’s own desperate prayer inside the great fish.

Bishop Benjamin encouraged everyone to let these stories inspire a renewed commitment to thankfulness. He urged believers to support one another, to be a safe haven for those in distress, and to trust that God’s saving hand is always at work.

Embracing Thanksgiving in Every Season

As the class drew to a close, the message was clear:

• Thanksgiving is a way of life.
• It builds our inner strength and unites us as a community.
• It is the key to unlocking God’s favor, healing, and blessings in our lives.

Bishop Benjamin reminded us that when we base our lives on the steadfast rock of God’s mercy—when we truly cry out to Him in our moments of need—we become unmovable and unshakable. This Thanksgiving, let our hearts overflow with genuine gratitude, knowing that salvation and strength come from the Lord alone.

May we all carry this spirit of thankfulness into every aspect of our lives, building unity in our homes, our communities, and our nation, as we trust in God’s eternal promise:
“Oh, give thanks unto the LORD; for he is good: for his mercy endureth forever.”