America has a long history of seeking God’s help. As our national celebration of Independence Day approaches, it is good to remember where we came from. Despite attempts to obscure or rewrite the record, God’s providence is unmistakable. When the Mayflower arrived at Cape Cod in 1620, the Pilgrims sank to their knees and thanked God for safe passage across the ocean. Before the early travelers disembarked, they drew up the Mayflower Compact. In it, they included a pledge of their commitment to God.
The Pilgrims wanted to separate from the Church of England. They came seeking religious freedom. Merchants and craftsmen who were also aboard the ship did not necessarily share that concern, but agreed to the laws that would bind the colony together.
Eventually, the fledgling nation sought independence from England. They declared their independence, fought a war over it, then tried to put the thirteen original colonies together as a nation. The Declaration of Independence states: “We hold these truths to be self evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.” They clearly understood rights came from God, not government, and the earliest laws reflected that truth. They understood the purpose of government is to secure the rights given by God. The laws established in our nation came from the Bible.
But there were bumps along the way. As they met to form a constitution, there was much disagreement. The smaller colonies/states feared the larger states would take advantage and have greater representation. They were at a standstill. Tempers rose.
In the midst, Ben Franklin addressed the assembly. He reminded those present that human understanding is limited. They had examined the constitutions of other nations, and found none that suited their purposes. He asked, as they groped for truth, and failed to recognize it when it was presented, how was it that they had not once thought of humbly applying to God the Father to illumine their understanding?
He reminded them that as they fought a war and realized the danger they were in, they had daily prayer for divine protection. Their prayers were heard and graciously answered as they experienced miracle upon miracle on the way to victory, against the most adverse odds.
Had they forgotten their powerful Friend? Did they no longer need His assistance?
“I have lived, Sir, a long time, and the longer I live, the more convincing proofs I see of this truth–that God governs in the affairs of men. And if a sparrow cannot fall to the ground without his notice, is it probable that an empire can rise without his aid? We have been assured, Sir, in the sacred writings, that ‘except the Lord build the House they labor in vain that build it.’”
Franklin’s wisdom prevailed. Our nation was formed, with an understanding of God’s sovereign power. God has blessed America profoundly.
Now, is a time for seeking God’s help, a time to remember the principles of our founding, and once again acknowledge our dependence on our Creator. May we never forget our need of Him. Pray for our leaders to seek His wisdom.
Remember the Lord your God. He is the one who gives you power to be successful, Deut. 8:18 NLT
How are you seeking God’s help for your family, and for your nation? Please leave a comment below.
Blessings,
Phyllis
© 2025 Phyllis L. Farringer
Photo courtesy of Pixabay
This is so encouraging, Phyllis! There are still “bumps” in our life as a free nation. However, as Franklin questioned the framers of the Constitution, “Have we forgotten our powerful Friend?”. I dare not!
Thank you, Cheryl. I’m glad you were encouraged.
Thanks for sharing the info, Phyllis. Yes, I’ve been praying for all of us and believing God will help us.
Thank you, Joni. God is our hope.