Pastor Adeboye Encourages Gratitude Amid Challenges, Criticizes Indecent Dressing

Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye, the General Overseer of The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), has called on Nigerians to remain thankful to God despite the current economic and social challenges.

Speaking during the annual thanksgiving service tagged “All Round Praise” at the RCCG national headquarters in Ebute-Metta, Lagos, Pastor Adeboye stressed the importance of gratitude, even in tough times.

A Call to Gratitude Amid Hardship

Addressing the congregation, Pastor Adeboye urged Nigerians to focus on God’s mercy, which sustains life through difficult moments. He said, “If you’re unsure of what to thank God for, thank Him for His mercy. The fact that you’re alive today is not due to your wisdom, strength, or abilities but because of His mercy. The Bible says, ‘A living dog is better than a dead lion.’ As long as you are breathing, there is hope for your future.”

He reflected on the significance of life, drawing comparisons to the COVID-19 pandemic, where breathing became a luxury for many. Pastor Adeboye noted, “During the pandemic, people relied on oxygen masks to survive. As long as you can breathe freely, you still have hope, and those who doubt you will be amazed at how your tomorrow will turn out.”

A Lesson on Gratitude and Mental Health

The RCCG leader connected the idea of gratitude to mental health and contentment, urging people to be thankful for what they have. He said, “Perhaps you couldn’t buy new clothes for Christmas, but you are not naked, and that alone is something to thank God for. Some people have closets full of clothes but have lost their minds. King Nebuchadnezzar, who once had riches and fine clothing, ended up naked and roaming among animals when his mental health deteriorated.”

Condemnation of Indecent Dressing

Pastor Adeboye also voiced concerns about the rise of indecent dressing in society, which he described as “practical nakedness.” He said, “Nowadays, people expose parts of their bodies that clothes are meant to cover, and this trend is even celebrated on television. This isn’t right. We must return to modesty and decency in our appearance.”

RCCG’s 100-Day Fasting Exercise Announced

In a related development, the RCCG has declared its annual 100-day fasting program, set to run from January 11 to April 21, 2025. Titled “RCCG Fast 2025,” the program will feature 30 days dedicated to intercessory prayers for Nigeria.

Pastor Oladele Balogun, the Special Assistant to the General Overseer, announced the program, highlighting its spiritual significance. Pastor Adeboye reiterated the importance of prayer during fasting, stating, “Fasting without prayer is merely a hunger strike. Prayer is the engine that powers fasting, and I believe this season will bring divine breakthroughs for our nation.”

Themes of Gratitude, Modesty, and Spiritual Devotion

The thanksgiving service served as a reminder of the power of gratitude, the value of modesty, and the necessity of spiritual dedication. It concluded with a message of hope for a brighter future for Nigeria and its people.