It’s been more than two centuries since our nation undertook the monumental task of declaring independence and establishing a new government. As we watch the negative forces which are at work against sound government today, we have to realize what a miracle it was for the United States to be formed in the first place – and then to grow to become the greatest power on earth. God’s hand was truly on our nation.
As we look back at the men who spearheaded the origins, they seem like a special breed. They didn’t all agree on a particular doctrine or creed, but they were not ashamed to proclaim their beliefs. As we read their remarks, it’s clear that lots of prayer and dependence on God were the norm during those early days.
Let’s take a look at some of these remarks.
God brought His little flock hither and placed it in this wilderness, for the great purpose of establishing permanently the church of Christ is these vast regions of idolatry and sin, and commencing here the glorious work of salvation. This great continent is soon to be filled with the praise and piety of the Millennium. But here is the seed, from which this vast harvest is to spring.
Timothy Dwight, President of Yale University
I now make it an earnest prayer that God would incline the hearts of the citizens to entertain a brotherly affection for one another, for their fellow citizens of the United States at large, and particularly for their brethren who have served in the field. And finally that He would most graciously be pleased to dispose us to do all justice, to love mercy, and to demean ourselves, with that charity, humility, and pacific temper of mind which were the characteristics of the Divine Author of our religion, and without an humble imitation of whose example in these things, we can never hope to be a happy nation.
George Washington, President of the United States
With Israel of old we take up our song: Blessed be the Lord who gave us not as a prey for their teeth. Blessed be the Lord, the snare is broken and we are escaped…Here also shall our Jesus go forth to conquer, and the heathen shall be given to Him for an inheritance, and these uttermost parts for a possession. The pure and undefiled religion of our Blessed Redeemer – here it shall reign in triumph over all opposition!
George Duffield, Presbyterian Minister and friend of John Adams
