February 22
"When there is moral rot within a nation, its government topples easily. But wise and knowledgeable leaders bring stability." -Proverbs 28:2 (NLT)
For a government or nation to survive, prosper, and endure it needs wise, informed, godly, honest leaders. These seem increasingly hard to find. A man such as this was George Washington, the "Father of His Country" whose birthday we celebrate today. General Washington was born today on Feb. 22, 1732 and became commander of the Continental Army in 1775. He fought a long arduous war for freedom from British rule. The war finally ended in 1781, when the Continental Army forced a British surrender at Yorktown. In 1787, Washington was unanimously elected president. He took the oath of office in 1789 and served two terms from 1789 until 1797. He could have become king but refused because of his character and deep faith in God. Without his leadership, America would probably not exist today. However he felt his real strength was in God and prayer. He wrote many prayers including "Washington's Prayer For America":
"Almighty God, We make our earnest prayer that Thou wilt keep the United States in Thy Holy protection; and Thou wilt incline the hearts of the Citizens to cultivate a spirit of subordination and obedience to Government; and entertain a brotherly affection and love for one another and for their fellow Citizens of the United States at large, and particularly for their brethren who have served in the Field. And finally that Thou wilt most graciously be pleased to dispose us all to do justice, to love mercy, and to demean ourselves with that Charity, humility, and pacific temper of mind which were the Characteristics of the Divine Author of our blessed Religion, and without a humble imitation of whose example in these things we can never hope to be a happy nation. Grant our supplication, we beseech Thee, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen."
After the presidency, Washington retired in Virginia and died a hero in 1799. However, if people live selfishly for themselves with no concern how their actions affect others; the resulting moral rot harms the entire country. Fortunately you can choose today to be part of the problem, or part of a Godly solution just as Washington was. Your choice can change the future of your country!
Prayer: Holy Spirit, Grant us Godly leaders today. Amen.
Meditation For The Day: False leaders destroy. True leaders build.
Brief Devotions For Busy Lives: Daily Winter Renewal Paperback – November 25, 2017, by Rev. Dr. Mary Johnson (Author)
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