America recently celebrated its 250th anniversary, marking the longest-tenured single document constitution in world history. The founding fathers fought and died for freedom from oppressive tyranny, believing that individual liberties come from a higher power, not men.
Divine Intervention and Self-Government
General George Washington frequently attributed the survival of the Continental Army and the success of the American Revolution to divine intervention. In a letter to John Augustine Washington, he wrote about being protected beyond human probability or expectation, with four bullets through his coat and two horses shot under him, yet escaping unhurt.
Washington’s prayer for the fledgling nation, sent to the governors of the newly formed 13 states, urged national unity and asked for God’s holy protection. He believed that following Christ’s example was essential for the nation’s happiness.
John Adams, the second President of the United States, echoed Washington’s sentiments, stating that the Constitution was made for a moral and religious people and would be inadequate for any other. The founding fathers understood that freedom requires great responsibility and individual self-control.
In today’s society, lawlessness and defiance of common-sense moralities are often encouraged. However, history teaches that externally dictated constraints will not suffice to curb human passion or avarice. Absent individual self-control, growing central control results in curbed liberties.
America’s Founding Principles
The founding fathers fought, bled, and died to free every American from oppression. They realized that freedom was maintained by individual self-government and the imitation of their Creator in love, justice, mercy, and humility. America’s success is inextricably tied to Christian faith and self-government, and it is essential to remember and honor these founding principles.
Original reporting: Must Read Alaska (Anchorage) — read the source article.
