Read about this class:

In a spirited class led by Bishop Benjamin, the importance of thanksgiving as a divine response to God’s mercy and deliverance was powerfully emphasized. Through heartfelt prayer, scriptural insights, and personal testimonies, the session called on believers to cultivate thankful hearts—even amid trials and political challenges.

A Prayer for Thankfulness and Healing

The session opened with a unifying prayer that set the tone for the night. Bishop Benjamin led the group in asking God to:

• Instill a Thankful Heart: “May we see the power of thanksgiving and be reminded that we were always designed to be a people of gratitude.”
• Bless the Ministry: Special prayers were offered for GoldCare, Doctor Simone Gold, and all the doctors, nurses, patients, and affiliates involved in this innovative approach to healthcare.
• Intercede for Our Nation: The prayer extended to the nation, asking for God’s mercy and rescue, and for the leadership to be touched by His spirit.

The Scriptural Foundation: 1 Chronicles 16:34

Central to the message was the timeless verse:
“Oh, give thanks unto the LORD; for he is good: for his mercy endureth forever.”

Bishop Benjamin stressed that this verse is not just a call to utter words of gratitude—it’s a declaration of trust in God’s unfailing mercy. True thanksgiving, he explained, arises from recognizing that every good gift comes from God and that even in the midst of adversity, His deliverance is at work.

Witnessing Divine Deliverance

The class reflected on a historic moment experienced by many during the recent election. Despite long nights of anxious prayer—some even praying into the early hours—there was a palpable shift as ballots were counted. Participants described how:

• A Wave of Deliverance Emerged: Many felt a profound sense of relief and joy as deliverance from oppression seemed to sweep over the nation.
• Hope, Faith, and Love Were Renewed: Although all three are vital, the greatest among them is love—a love that unites people in praise and prayer.
• Personal Testimonies Affirmed God’s Power: One intercessor, Dr. Maria Dapina, shared that she went to bed praying and woke up with a deep assurance that God had already secured victory. Others recounted feeling a physical purging of evil, which confirmed for them that God was moving in their midst.

Thankfulness as a Reaction to Good

Bishop Benjamin reminded everyone that giving thanks is a response to receiving something good. He explained:

• Deliverance Must Precede True Thanksgiving: As seen in the scriptures, we are called to be delivered from “the heathen” (those who do not know God) so that we can fully appreciate and give thanks for our salvation.
• Gratitude Transforms Circumstances: When we react to God’s blessings with thanksgiving, our spirits are shaped and strengthened. This posture of gratitude has the power to push back darkness and to create space for hope and new beginnings.

Music, Praise, and Shaping Our Destiny

Using the imagery of a choir rehearsal from 1 Chronicles 16, Bishop Benjamin illustrated how thanksgiving is like a symphony where every voice counts. He noted that:

• Praise is a Powerful Weapon: When we make a joyful noise unto the Lord, we’re not merely making sound—we are actively aligning our spirits with God’s purpose.
• Music Shapes Our Spirit: Just as ancient psalmists and composers used music to bring forth spiritual revival, our heartfelt praise can transform our lives and communities.
• Building a New Future: Like David gathering the ark back to the heart of Israel, our collective thanksgiving sets the stage for new beginnings and divine restoration.

A Call to Continue in Thanksgiving

The session concluded with a heartfelt charge:

• Remain Vigilant in Prayer: Even as deliverance is witnessed, the work is not over. Continuous prayer and thanksgiving are essential to sustain the momentum of God’s blessings.
• Share Your Testimonies: As individuals experienced personal breakthroughs—whether overcoming illness, family challenges, or societal oppression—their stories serve as a powerful reminder of God’s presence.
• Build Together in Gratitude: When each person commits to a lifestyle of thankfulness, it creates a ripple effect that strengthens families, communities, and ultimately, the nation.

Bishop Benjamin’s passionate message left the congregation with a resounding reminder:
“Give thanks unto the LORD, for He is good; His mercy endures forever.”

May we all embrace this call to thankfulness, allowing our praise to shape our destiny and to manifest God’s deliverance in every area of our lives.