Have We Now Forgotten That Powerful Friend?

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Benjamin Franklin was eighty-one years old at the time of the Constitutional Convention. He knew that if it had not been for God, we could not have defeated the most powerful military force in the world, and won our independence from Great Britain.

The delegates were unable to agree on anything at first. Then, they adopted Franklin's motion to begin each session by praying together. With God's help, they put together the American Constitution, and created our government of the people, by the people, and for the people.

The following is part of what Benjamin Franklin said to the Founders of the United States of America.

"How has it happened, Sir, that we have not hitherto once thought of humbly applying to the Father of lights to illuminate our understandings? In the beginning of the contest with G. Britain, when we were sensible of danger we had daily prayer in this room for the Divine Protection. Our prayers, Sir, were heard, and they were graciously answered. All of us who were engaged in the struggle must have observed frequent instances of a Superintending providence in our favor. . . . And have we now forgotten that powerful friend? or do we imagine that we 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.' I firmly believe this; . . . "

There can be no disputing the fact that Benjamin Franklin believed in God. He trusted and depended on him. He prayed to him daily, and was, most definitely, a Bible believer.