By Edward Acquah
Accra, Jan. 1, GNA – The Accra Ridge Church has urged Ghanaians to build and sustain a strong relationship with God in 2026, linking spiritual commitment to personal stability and national renewal.
Very Rev. Dr. Abraham Boateng, Youth Pastor of Accra Ridge Church made the call during the Church’s 31st Watch Night Service on Wednesday night to usher in the New Year.
Preaching from Numbers 6:22–27, he said God’s blessings, protection and peace were tied to a deliberate and consistent relationship with Him, rather than occasional religious observance.
“This declaration was for the people of Israel who had a relationship with God. You only have a one-in-a-year relationship, and you want this type of protection? Get serious with Christ. Get serious with God in 2026 and see what God will do in your life,” he said.
Very Rev. Dr Boateng explained that the biblical benediction – “The Lord bless you and keep you” – carried a personal and relational meaning, stressing that God’s intervention was directed at individuals who walked closely with Him.
“When we say blessing, it means God will come through for you at the time you need Him the most. That is our sure hope for 2026, he noted.
Very Rev. Dr Boateng noted that national prosperity, peace and resilience depended not only on economic policies and governance, but also on moral discipline, faithfulness and obedience to God.
He urged Ghanaians, particularly the youth, to avoid social vices and commit to upright living, drawing lessons from the Nazirite vow in the Bible, which demanded dedication and restraint.
“Have a vow with the Lord this year. Be intentional about your walk with God, and then you are assured of these blessings,” he said.
The Youth Pastor assured worshippers that God’s protection was constant and dependable, unlike human security systems.
“God’s protection is spiritual. It is 24/7. It does not change,” he said.
Very Rev. Dr Boateng encouraged Ghanaians not to be overwhelmed by fear, uncertainty or negative prophecies about the New Year, but to move forward with confidence anchored in faith.
“We know whom we have believed. If God’s name is upon you, you will not be afraid of what lies ahead,” he added.
The Watch Night Service concluded with prayers for Ghana’s peace, prosperity and stability in 2026, with the Church asking God to guide national leadership, protect citizens, and help the nation eschew social vices and moral decline.
GNA
Edited by Kenneth Sackey