Mahama: Prayer without hard work cannot transform Ghana’s economy

President John Dramani Mahama has urged Ghanaians to combine faith with hard work, discipline and personal responsibility, stressing that prayer alone cannot transform the nation's economy or deliver the prosperity citizens desire.

Addressing the 2026 National Day of Prayer in Accra on Wednesday, July 1, the President said while prayer remains an essential pillar of Ghana's national life, sustainable development can only be achieved when faith is matched with purposeful action and responsible leadership.

The event brought together political leaders, religious leaders, traditional authorities and citizens from across the country to pray for peace, unity and national progress.

President Mahama challenged Ghanaians to adopt a stronger work ethic and actively contribute to national development, noting that every citizen has a responsibility to help build a prosperous and resilient nation.

According to him, economic transformation requires more than hope and prayers—it demands discipline, innovation, integrity and hard work.

Quoting the Bible, the President reminded participants that faith must always be accompanied by action.

"Our national journey reminds us of an enduring truth, 'faith without works is dead,' says James 2:26. And prayer without responsibility cannot transform an economy. Hope without discipline cannot create prosperity."

He said Ghana's development agenda depends on the collective commitment of citizens to perform their duties diligently while supporting efforts to grow the economy and strengthen public institutions.

President Mahama cited several biblical examples to illustrate that throughout history, people of faith achieved success through a combination of prayer, planning and hard work.

Referring to the story of Nehemiah, he noted that rebuilding Jerusalem's walls required both prayer and labour.

Likewise, he pointed to Joseph's leadership in Egypt, where careful planning and preparation helped the nation survive years of famine.

"Throughout history, God's people have always combined faith with hard work. When Nehemiah rebuilt the walls of Jerusalem, the people prayed but they also laboured. When Joseph prepared Egypt for the years of famine, they also planned wisely."

He said these examples demonstrate that faith should inspire responsible action rather than replace it.

The President urged Ghanaians to demonstrate discipline and commitment in their workplaces, communities and public service, stressing that national development is a shared responsibility.

He encouraged citizens to uphold integrity, accountability and productivity while supporting government initiatives aimed at promoting economic growth, job creation and improved living standards.

According to President Mahama, lasting prosperity will only be achieved when individuals, institutions and government work together with a common sense of purpose.

The 2026 National Day of Prayer served as a platform for national reflection, with prayers offered for peace, social cohesion, economic recovery and continued stability.

The gathering brought together representatives of various Christian denominations, Muslim leaders, traditional authorities, government officials and members of the public in a collective appeal for God's guidance and blessings for Ghana.

President Mahama concluded by encouraging citizens to maintain their faith while embracing the values of diligence, responsibility and service, saying these principles remain essential for building a stronger and more prosperous nation.