Day Eight: Division in Ghana

Peaceful despite religious and economic division

In 2007 Ghana celebrated its 50th year of independence from Great Britain. The country has experienced a long period of political stability and economic growth – which unfortunately has yet to reach all segments of society. Long periods of drought have brought some poor harvests and even moments without electricity, because water rationing at the largest man made reservoir in Africa, Lake Volta, sometimes keeps the electrical turbines from functioning. In general, the land in the North is much poorer and less productive than in the South (only one rainy season and one harvest in the North as opposed to two in the South). Great efforts are required by the government and the aid agencies to further development in northern Ghana.

There is also a religious divide between the more Christian South and the largely Muslim North (although most tribes are still influenced by animist beliefs). Happily there are some communities of believers in the North, however, Islamic countries have invested a great deal of money to bring Islam to the various ethnic groups. There is a race between Islam and Christianity in much of West Africa. While there is still a peaceful co-existence between the two groups, conflict exists between various Muslim sects in the region.

A stronghold of Islam in Ghana is the city of Wa in the north-west of the country. Its residents are mostly Muslim merchants. Some of the believers in Wa did see a few people come to Jesus during the last year. It is difficult for new believers to attend public worship services, for most, it would mean rejection from their families.

Prayer Starters:

* Pray for the Ghanaians who are seeking to make Christ known to Muslims. They need encouragement and support in order to continue the work.

* Pray for the people of Wa to become open to the Gospel. Pray for the new believers to have courage and grow in their faith so others may be reached.

* May believers in Wa and other regions grow in God’s strength and wisdom, developing good relationships with one-another, and encouraging one-another.

Testimony from Ghana:

After rejecting the Gospel for years as an Islamic extremist, “Malik” is now excited about the Lord Jesus. He has become someone who peacefully proclaims Jesus. Recently he obtained the “Jesus” Film which he showed in a village where Islam became established some 400 years ago. Illiteracy in this farming village of 5,000 is very high so the film was appreciated. Many heard the Gospel joyfully. Later it became clear that almost 100 people in the village had found new life in the Messiah. Having placed their confidence in Jesus who delivers from evil spirits, the new believers burned their talismans. They have also faced opposition from some people.