“Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord” (Psalm 33:12).
The Bible tells us that God will hold every person and every social institution – including families, churches, and nations – accountable for their actions.
Early Americans understood this important biblical axiom. They worked to establish their new nation in righteousness, and their intention from the beginning was that this nation would be under God and structured according to His moral standards.
Not too long after taking office as the first president, George Washington instructed his countrymen in their responsibility to God. “It is the duty of all nations,” he observed, “to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey His will, to be grateful for his benefits, and humbly implore his protection and favor.”
Following this guidance given by Washington, the preamble to the Idaho Constitution declares that “the people of the State of Idaho” are “grateful to Almighty God for our freedom.” Our state constitution proclaims that the cornerstone upon which our government rests is Christ and the freedom He has given us.
Can a nation achieve greatness through political, economic, or military power? Of course not! The principle contained in Psalm 33:12 offers a promise to all nations: God blesses those nations that promote virtue, model righteousness in their laws, and seek His face.
As the Christian patriot Samuel Adams remarked, “The wise and just ruler of the Universe… rewards or punishes [nations] according to their general character.” Our nation has been blessed because past generations have sought God as they labored to bring every aspect of life under His authority. May we imitate their faithfulness.
PRAYER. Good and gracious God, you have preserved and strengthened this nation, sending us unmerited gifts from your hand. Please lead our state and our country back to a place where you are honored once again. May our children grow up in a godly nation marked by its faithfulness to you. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.
