The Power of Thanksgiving

14th August 2025

Devotion by Reverend Joseph Antwi

Fortified City Church & Love City Church, Basel

The Power of Thanksgiving by Rev Joseph Antwi

Scripture Focus:

“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:18 🙏

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When you are truly grateful, even your offerings to God become sacred and joyful. You don’t give your tithe simply because God commands 10% — your giving flows from a heart of love and gratitude (Open your Bibles and read 2 Corinthians 9:7).

Some debate whether tithing is necessary in the New Testament church. But often, such debates come from immaturity in the things of God. Tithing was a common practice in the early church, and Jesus Himself mentioned it (Open your Bibles and read Matthew 23:23) — not to abolish it, but to remind us that it should be done alongside weightier matters such as justice, mercy, and faithfulness.

We give because, (Open your Bibles and read 1 Corinthians 4:7), everything we have comes from the Lord. Giving is a privilege — a thanksgiving sacrifice (Open your Bibles and read Psalm 116:17). As your pastor, I don’t give to impress; I give to express my love for the One who saved me ❤️.

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The Leper Who Returned 🙌

Jesus healed ten lepers, but only one returned to give thanks (Open your Bibles and read Luke 17:11–19). That one was made whole. This means the others were healed physically, but the thankful one received something greater — restoration, completeness, and permanence. Thanksgiving sealed his miracle so that the sickness would never return.

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Thanksgiving Breaks Chains 🔓

(Open your Bibles and read Acts 16:25–26) — Paul and Silas prayed and sang hymns to God in prison. The result? Chains broke, prison doors swung open, and not only they but all the prisoners experienced freedom.

Even in our relationships, appreciating the people God has placed in your life opens the way for more breakthroughs (Open your Bibles and read Philippians 1:3). Gratitude keeps the heart soft and heaven’s channels open.

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A Pastoral Moment 💒

Yesterday at our Prayer Gym, I felt the tangible presence of the Living God. I felt in the spirit chains breaking off people’s lives. I felt miracles already taking shape. And right after the meeting, a big miracle happened! Hallelujah!

(Open your Bibles and read Psalm 100:4) — Why not spend today simply thanking and praising God with the Scriptures? You will be amazed at how your atmosphere changes.

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Thanksgiving Prayer Points ✨

1. Thanksgiving for the Breath of Life 🫁

(Open your Bibles and read Lamentations 3:22–23) — Father, I thank You for the gift of life. Every breath I take is proof of Your mercy.

2. Thanksgiving for Deliverance from the Enemy’s Traps 🕊

(Open your Bibles and read Psalm 91:3; Colossians 1:13) — Thank You, Lord, for delivering me from the snare of the fowler and breaking every family altar that sought to limit me.

3. Thanksgiving for the Holiness of God ✨

(Open your Bibles and read Isaiah 6:3; Revelation 4:8) — Lord, I thank You for Your holiness. Even the angels cry “Holy, holy, holy!” May my life reflect reverence for Your majesty and glory.

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🔥 Declaration:

Today, I choose to give thanks in all things. My praise will open doors, my gratitude will keep them open, and my God will make me whole!

Blessings,

Reverend Joseph Antwi

Fortified City Church | Love City Church | Global Prayer Hub