Forgotten President?​

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by David G. Rose

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     On July 4, 2026, the United States will celebrate our historic 250th anniversary of the adoption of the Declaration of Independence and the birth of our country. Celebrating America’s Semiquincentennial is a milestone that should not be ignored.  

     Never forget, our nation was established on faith in God and the principles of scripture. Many of our founders were Christians who fought and died with deep convictions and a reverent fear of God. As we celebrate, may we remember Proverbs 10:7 NKJV, “The memory of the righteous is blessed, but the name of the wicked will rot.”

     One of the just men that founded our country was George Washington. He was born into an English family, but his father died when he was young and he was raised by a devout Christian mother. When he entered military service, his goal was to keep the peace. But he realized that his countrymen were being suppressed and offered to raise an army. 

     In 1775, Washington attended the second Continental Congress and was elected commander-in-chief at the age of 43. With his wisdom and vision, he united a rebellious people into a patchwork army. With few men and less money, George led this ragtag militia in defeating the strongest army in Europe.

     George Washington was a heroic general and acclaimed statesman. But his controlling feature was his strong faith in God. Judges 8:21 says, “As the man is, so is his strength.” Washington prayed, read his Bible, and attended church faithfully. Further, he served as a board member and trustee of his church and supported it with his donations.

     It has been recorded that the first day that Washington took command of the army he issued this order on July 4, 1775: “The General requires and expects of all officers and soldiers not engaged in actual duty, a punctual attendance on Divine service, to implore the blessings of Heaven upon the means used for our safety and defense.”

     Washington knew that before you push ahead in any endeavor, you must stop, fall on your knees, and go to God with your plans. Following the war Washington wrote: “The Hand of Providence has been so conspicuous in all this [the success of the Revolution], that he must be worse than an infidel that lacks faith, and more than wicked, that has not gratitude enough to acknowledge his obligations.” 

     Washington stated in his 1796 Farewell Address: "Of all the dispositions and habits which lead to political prosperity, religion and morality are indispensable supports." As we celebrate our vast accomplishments as a nation, may we never forget the help that God provided us in our struggle. 

     Though there are vocal dissidents who want to eliminate all references to God, the Christian must stand firm in their convictions and push back against heretical deviants and skeptics. Never forget the sobering reality of Proverbs 14:34 KJV, “Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people.”

     The best way to celebrate the Semiquincentennial anniversary is to humbly pray to God for forgiveness and mercy. Only He can heal our land.

     Next week: Our Adversary
 

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