Can America Be Great Again?

If you watched this past Monday’s inaugural events, what stood out to you as America transitioned to the 47^th president?  For me I was struck by the frequent prayers and benedictions woven throughout the day. One part of a prayer stood out, offered by Franklin Graham, for millions tuning in to hear when he prayed, “We know that America can never be great again if we turn our backs on you. We ask for your help.”

These words carry a powerful message: America’s greatness, and any hope of returning to it, is deeply intertwined with God. They also reflect an acknowledgment that our nation has drifted from its foundational principles—principles embedded in our national motto, “In God We Trust,” and in the words “one nation under God” spoken in our Pledge of Allegiance.

Few would argue that our country has, in recent times, turned away from its Christian roots and what are often referred to as Judeo-Christian values. These values, drawn from both the Old and New Testament scriptures, have historically served as a moral compass for our society, shaping our founding documents and justice system.

Though America has never been perfect and has faced challenges along the way, it was founded on the acknowledgment of God's supreme authority. Consider these three examples:

• The final sentence of the Declaration of Independence: “And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor.”

• A quote from George Washington’s Inaugural Address: “No people can be bound to acknowledge and adore the Invisible Hand, which conducts the affairs of men more than those of the United States. Every step by which they have advanced to the character of an independent nation seems to have been distinguished by some token of providential agency.”

• George Washington’s Thanksgiving Proclamation: “Whereas it is the duty of all Nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey His will, to be grateful for His benefits, and humbly to implore His protection and favor— and whereas both Houses of Congress have by their joint Committee requested me to recommend to the People of the United States a day of public thanksgiving and prayer…”

Today, we find ourselves at a unique moment in history—one where there is a growing desire to acknowledge God and place our reliance on Him. As we move forward, let us pray for our leaders and as Solomon declared may we, as a nation, humble ourselves, pray, and turn from our wicked ways, trusting that He will hear our cries and heal our land (2 Chronicles 7:14).

As we step into 2025, let us continue in prayer for one another, lift one another up through encouragement, especially those facing trials, and always pray, “Your will be done.”

This Sabbath, may the eyes of your understanding be enlightened; that you may know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, and what is the exceeding greatness of His power toward us who believe (Ephesians 1:18-19).