President John Dramani Mahama has urged Ghanaians to complement prayer with hard work, discipline and personal responsibility, saying faith alone cannot deliver the country's economic transformation and long-term development.

Addressing the 2026 National Day of Prayer in Accra on Wednesday, July 1, the President said while prayer remains central to Ghana's national life, meaningful progress requires citizens to translate their faith into productive action.

The event brought together government officials, religious leaders, traditional authorities and members of the public to pray for peace, unity and the nation's continued development.

President Mahama encouraged Ghanaians to cultivate a strong work ethic and play their part in advancing the country's development agenda, stressing that national prosperity depends on the collective efforts of all citizens.

According to him, every Ghanaian has a responsibility to contribute to building a stronger economy through diligence, commitment and accountability in both public and private life.

Quoting the Bible, the President said faith must be demonstrated through action, noting that prayer without responsibility cannot transform a nation's fortunes.

"Our national journey reminds us of an enduring truth, 'faith without works is dead,' says James 2:26. Prayer without responsibility cannot transform an economy, and hope without discipline cannot create prosperity," he said.

Drawing lessons from Scripture, President Mahama cited the examples of Nehemiah, who combined prayer with rebuilding Jerusalem's walls, and Joseph, whose careful planning enabled Egypt to withstand years of famine.

He said these biblical accounts illustrate that enduring success is achieved when faith is accompanied by hard work, careful planning and a shared commitment to the common good.