Accra, Jan. 11, GNA — The General Superintendent of Assemblies of God, Ghana, Reverend Stephen Wengam, has urged Ghanaians to shun pessimism and grumbling, saying such attitudes make it difficult for people to recognise what God has done for them, both individually and as a nation.
He said grateful people were content with their accomplishments, a mindset which motivated them to strive for higher heights and ultimately contributed to national development.
Rev Wengam was speaking at a non-denominational church service held at the Forecourt of the Presidency to mark the first anniversary of the second term of President John Dramani Mahama.
The service was attended by President Mahama; the First Lady, Mrs Lordina Mahama; the Vice President, Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang; the Chief Justice, Mr Paul Baffoe-Bonnie; Ministers of State; Members of Parliament; heads of the security services; and other officials of state institutions.
Preaching on the theme, “The Impact of Gratitude on Leadership Success and National Development,” Rev Wengam drew lessons from the biblical account of Israel under the leadership of Samuel, noting how the nation paused to thank God for His guidance and victories.
He said Samuel’s declaration, “Ebenezer,” meaning “thus far the Lord has helped us,” underscored the importance of acknowledging divine intervention in the affairs of a people.
The General Superintendent commended President Mahama for instituting the annual thanksgiving service, describing it as an opportunity for the nation to appreciate God for His blessings.
He said when Israel observed that act of thanksgiving, it attracted peace, political stability, economic restoration and leadership success, and expressed optimism that similar virtues would accrue to Ghana.
Rev Wengam warned against what he described as a growing sense of entitlement and greed, noting that such tendencies bred ingratitude and corruption, which undermined national progress.
He also applauded President Mahama for achievements made so far, including efforts at economic recovery, the relative stability of the cedi against the United States dollar, and initiatives aimed at strengthening national unity.
Rev Wengam, assisted by members of the Executive Presbytery of Assemblies of God, Ghana, prayed for divine guidance and blessings for President Mahama and his appointees, as well as for peace and prosperity for the nation.
Other members of the clergy took turns to pray for various aspects of national development, while Muslim clerics also offered prayers for unity and the transformation of Ghana.
GNA
Kenneth Odeng Adade
