Celebrating Gratitude: Honoring Reverend Obasohan's Legacy

Summary

### Summary

Today, we gather to celebrate the 70th birthday of Reverend Mayor Obasohan, a man of great character, values, and simplicity. This milestone is a testament to God's grace and the importance of gratitude in our lives. The psalmist reminds us that longevity is a gift from God, and a grateful heart attracts long life and happiness. We must continually give thanks to God, as He commands and deserves our gratitude for His enduring goodness and mercy.

Reverend Obasohan's life exemplifies the power of gratitude. He has been a faithful servant, a loving family man, and a pillar in the community. His journey from a young student to a revered leader is a testament to God's faithfulness. As we celebrate his life, we are reminded of the importance of remembering our past and acknowledging God's hand in our journey. Forgetting our source is to dishonor God, who is the author and finisher of our lives.

Thanksgiving is not just a ritual but a profound acknowledgment of our dependence on God. It connects us to the giver and opens doors that no man can shut. Jesus emphasized the importance of gratitude when He healed the ten lepers, and only one returned to give thanks. This act of returning to say thank you is a powerful principle that brings more blessings and favor into our lives.

As we reflect on Reverend Obasohan's life, we are encouraged to cultivate a heart of gratitude. Whether in times of abundance or need, giving thanks aligns us with God's will and brings His blessings into our lives. We are also reminded to value and respect everyone around us, as God uses people to fulfill His purposes. By adding value to others, we become instruments of God's grace and love.

In conclusion, let us remain focused on Christ, the source of our strength and blessings. May we continue to give thanks in all circumstances, recognizing that everything we have is by God's grace. As we celebrate Reverend Obasohan's 70 years, let us commit to living lives of gratitude, honoring God, and valuing the people He places in our paths.

### Key Takeaways

1. Gratitude Attracts Longevity: The psalmist says, "I have been young, now I am old; I have not seen the righteous forsaken." A grateful heart attracts long life and happiness. When we are thankful to God, we align ourselves with His blessings and favor, leading to a life of abundance and joy. [40:25]

2. Thanksgiving Connects Us to the Giver: Jesus emphasized the importance of gratitude when He healed the ten lepers, and only one returned to give thanks. This act of returning to say thank you is a powerful principle that brings more blessings and favor into our lives. Thanksgiving is a seed that yields a bountiful harvest. [51:09]

3. Value and Respect Everyone: God uses people to fulfill His purposes. By adding value to others, we become instruments of God's grace and love. Respecting and valuing everyone around us, regardless of their status, opens doors for God's blessings in our lives. [08:26]

4. Dependence on God: Thanksgiving is a profound acknowledgment of our dependence on God. It is a recognition that everything we have is by His grace. Forgetting our source is to dishonor God, who is the author and finisher of our lives. [49:16]

5. Focus on Christ: As we celebrate milestones and achievements, we must remain focused on Christ, the source of our strength and blessings. Giving thanks in all circumstances aligns us with God's will and brings His blessings into our lives. [01:38:40]

### Youtube Chapters

[0:00] - Welcome
[37:13] - Opening Prayer and Greetings
[38:26] - Celebrating Reverend Mayor Obasohan
[39:20] - The Importance of Gratitude
[40:25] - Gratitude Attracts Longevity
[41:11] - Reverend Obasohan's Journey
[42:21] - A Man of Character and Values
[43:00] - Faithfulness in Service
[44:24] - Blessings for Future Generations
[44:58] - Psalm 103: Bless the Lord
[46:08] - The Power of Praise
[47:21] - Dependence on God
[49:16] - Thanksgiving as a Connection to the Giver
[51:09] - The Principle of Returning to Say Thank You
[52:21] - The Blessings of Gratitude
[54:06] - Giving Thanks in All Circumstances
[55:49] - Teaching Gratitude to Others
[57:37] - The Importance of Thanksgiving
[59:31] - Commands and Demands of Thanksgiving
[01:00:38] - God's Provision and Timing
[01:02:31] - Concluding Remarks and Final Blessings
[01:06:32] - The Power of Saying Thank You
[01:08:26] - Valuing and Respecting Others
[01:10:49] - Teaching Gratitude to Children
[01:12:28] - Final Prayers and Blessings
[01:37:09] - Celebrating with the Abasohans
[01:59:16] - Focus on Christ and Closing Prayer

Study Guide

### Bible Reading
1. Psalm 37:25 - "I have been young, and now am old; yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging bread."
2. Psalm 103:1-2 - "Bless the Lord, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name. Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits."
3. Luke 17:15-16 - "And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, and with a loud voice glorified God, And fell down on his face at his feet, giving him thanks: and he was a Samaritan."

### Observation Questions
1. According to Psalm 37:25, what has the psalmist observed about the righteous throughout his life?
2. In Psalm 103:1-2, what are we encouraged to do and why?
3. What was the reaction of the one leper who returned to Jesus in Luke 17:15-16, and what does this signify about gratitude? [51:09]
4. How does the sermon describe the relationship between gratitude and longevity? [40:25]

### Interpretation Questions
1. Why does the psalmist in Psalm 37:25 emphasize that he has never seen the righteous forsaken? How does this relate to the theme of gratitude in the sermon?
2. What does it mean to "forget not all his benefits" in Psalm 103:2, and how can this be applied to our daily lives?
3. In the story of the ten lepers, why do you think only one returned to give thanks? What does this teach us about the importance of gratitude? [51:09]
4. The sermon mentions that gratitude connects us to the giver and opens doors that no man can shut. How does this principle manifest in our spiritual and everyday lives? [51:09]

### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's faithfulness in your life. How did you express your gratitude, and how did it impact your relationship with God? [40:25]
2. Psalm 103:2 encourages us to remember all of God's benefits. What are some specific blessings in your life that you may have overlooked? How can you make a habit of acknowledging these blessings regularly?
3. The sermon highlights the importance of valuing and respecting everyone around us. Think of someone in your life whom you may have taken for granted. What steps can you take this week to show them appreciation and respect? [08:26]
4. How can you cultivate a heart of gratitude in both times of abundance and need? Share a practical way you plan to give thanks in a challenging situation you are currently facing. [54:06]
5. The sermon emphasizes the importance of focusing on Christ as the source of our strength and blessings. Identify a distraction in your life that prevents you from focusing on Christ. What specific action can you take this week to minimize that distraction? [01:38:40]
6. Reverend Obasohan's life is described as a testament to God's faithfulness. How can you use your own life experiences to encourage others in their faith journey? [41:11]
7. The act of returning to say thank you is highlighted as a powerful principle. Is there someone you need to thank for their impact on your life? How will you express your gratitude to them this week? [51:09]

Devotional

Day 1: Gratitude Attracts Longevity
A grateful heart is a magnet for blessings and longevity. The psalmist's words, "I have been young, now I am old; I have not seen the righteous forsaken," remind us that a life filled with gratitude aligns us with God's favor. When we consistently give thanks to God, we open ourselves to His enduring goodness and mercy. This principle is evident in the life of Reverend Mayor Obasohan, whose 70 years are a testament to the power of a thankful heart. By cultivating gratitude, we not only honor God but also invite His blessings into our lives, leading to a life of abundance and joy. [40:25]

Psalm 92:12-14 (ESV): "The righteous flourish like the palm tree and grow like a cedar in Lebanon. They are planted in the house of the Lord; they flourish in the courts of our God. They still bear fruit in old age; they are ever full of sap and green."

Reflection: Think of three specific things you are grateful for today. How can you express your gratitude to God for these blessings?

Day 2: Thanksgiving Connects Us to the Giver
Thanksgiving is more than a ritual; it is a profound acknowledgment of our dependence on God. When Jesus healed the ten lepers, only one returned to give thanks, demonstrating the importance of gratitude. This act of returning to say thank you is a powerful principle that brings more blessings and favor into our lives. Thanksgiving is a seed that yields a bountiful harvest, connecting us to the Giver and opening doors that no man can shut. By consistently giving thanks, we align ourselves with God's will and invite His blessings into our lives. [51:09]

Luke 17:15-19 (ESV): "Then one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, praising God with a loud voice; and he fell on his face at Jesus' feet, giving him thanks. Now he was a Samaritan. Then Jesus answered, 'Were not ten cleansed? Where are the nine? Was no one found to return and give praise to God except this foreigner?' And he said to him, 'Rise and go your way; your faith has made you well.'"

Reflection: Reflect on a recent blessing or answered prayer. Have you taken the time to thank God for it? How can you make gratitude a daily practice?

Day 3: Value and Respect Everyone
God uses people to fulfill His purposes, and by adding value to others, we become instruments of His grace and love. Respecting and valuing everyone around us, regardless of their status, opens doors for God's blessings in our lives. Reverend Obasohan's life exemplifies this principle, as he has been a faithful servant and a pillar in the community. By valuing and respecting others, we honor God and become channels of His love and grace. This principle not only enriches our lives but also brings blessings to those around us. [08:26]

Romans 12:10 (ESV): "Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor."

Reflection: Think of someone in your life who may feel undervalued or overlooked. How can you show them respect and add value to their life today?

Day 4: Dependence on God
Thanksgiving is a profound acknowledgment of our dependence on God. It is a recognition that everything we have is by His grace. Forgetting our source is to dishonor God, who is the author and finisher of our lives. By continually giving thanks, we acknowledge our reliance on God and invite His blessings into our lives. This principle is evident in the life of Reverend Obasohan, whose journey from a young student to a revered leader is a testament to God's faithfulness. By remembering our source and giving thanks, we honor God and align ourselves with His will. [49:16]

James 1:17 (ESV): "Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change."

Reflection: In what areas of your life do you need to acknowledge your dependence on God? How can you express your gratitude to Him for His provision and faithfulness?

Day 5: Focus on Christ
As we celebrate milestones and achievements, we must remain focused on Christ, the source of our strength and blessings. Giving thanks in all circumstances aligns us with God's will and brings His blessings into our lives. Reverend Obasohan's life is a testament to the power of focusing on Christ and living a life of gratitude. By keeping our eyes on Jesus, we find strength, guidance, and blessings in every season of life. Let us commit to living lives of gratitude, honoring God, and valuing the people He places in our paths. [01:38:40]

Hebrews 12:2 (ESV): "Looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God."

Reflection: What is one area of your life where you need to refocus on Christ? How can you make gratitude a central part of your relationship with Him today?

Quotes

1. "Longevity is a gift from God. The psalmist says, I have been young, now I am old. There is a place for old age in the kingdom. I have been young, now I am old. I have not seen the righteous forsaken, not the seed baked for bread, Psalm 37. I have not seen one. Long life flows in the direction of gratitude. When you are grateful to God, you attract longevity to yourself. So gratitude is important. Thanksgiving is important. Happiness flows in the lives of those who are grateful. Just possess a grateful heart and your life will be turned around." [40:25] (44 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

2. "A grateful life is a great life. We must give God thanks continually, now and forever. He demands it. He commanded it. He said, oh, give thanks unto the Lord for his word. He is good. And his mercies endures forever." [41:11] (21 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

3. "What is Thanksgiving? Number one, I did not forget. We give God thanks because we have come to say we did not forget. I remember what is Thanksgiving. I did not forget. To forget is to be foolish. What is number two? I remember. I remember when I was 10. I remember when I was 20. I remember when there was no food on the table. I remember when things were contrary, the wind was contrary. I remember." [48:38] (60 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

4. "Thanksgiving means I am not independent. I am dependent on my source, and your source is God. Thanksgiving is a proof that you have a source. Some beat their chests and say, no, I know myself. You slept last night, you don't really know yourself. It's somebody there. Turn to him again, say, I remember where I am coming from." [49:16] (60 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

5. "Gratitude connects you to the giver. Ingratitude will disconnect you from the giver. If I give you something, hello, I am the giver, you are the receiver. If I give you anything, it is me connecting myself to you. Listen, if I give him anything, I am the giver, you become a carrier of me so long as that product is with you. You are carrying me because it came from me." [50:34] (60 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

6. "Thanksgiving is gratitude. Be grateful to God and you will connect yourself to God permanently. Are you ready to see that? Give thanks in everything. In everything, not some, but everything. And then he added, this is the will of God. You are looking for the will of God? There is one. What is that one? Thanksgiving. Wake up in the morning to say, God, thank you. If it has not been you on my side, where will I have been? It is you. It's all about you." [54:06] (60 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

7. "To forget where you are coming from is to take credit for what God has done. You are simply saying that by your power you slept and you were awake. The same time, is anybody here? You were asleep and awake the same time? No. There's somebody here, I'm sure. You are here, you are asleep and awake. God has done. When you slept, he preserved you. When you woke up, he woke you." [55:04] (60 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

8. "When you look at a slave girl, what can a slave girl do? It doesn't work. She doesn't work. She's dependent on the people. But she was the instrument that God used. Don't look down on the small. They will become old. Don't look down on the old because they have been out there. They have gone through what you have not gone through." [01:10:10] (60 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

9. "If you pay the school fees of your children, they should learn to say thank you. If they have not said it, command them to say it. Let's teach them, train them in the way they should go. Listen, did you know what that means? Train them. Give them example. Let them learn from you. When they bring water for you, open your mouth to say what? Thank you. They will learn by it." [01:11:24] (60 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

10. "When you were praying in the spirits, did you know what you were saying? Does the spirit know what you were saying? Yes. What you know and what you don't know, the spirit knows. He has settled the matter. You say, oh no, I forgot to mention this. Don't forget, don't trouble yourself. The matter is settled." [02:10:47] (30 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

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Transcript

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