"Our Highest Glory"
George Washington served as Commander in Chief of the first American Army during the Revolutionary War. He served as the president of the Constitutional Convention to draft the laws forming the United States of America. He also was elected the first President of our country, serving from 1789 to 1797. On May 2, 1778, he issued the following order to his troops at Valley Forge:
"While we are zealously performing the duties of good Citizens and Soldiers we certainly ought not be inattentive to the higher duties of Religion. To the distinguished Character of Patriot, it should be our highest Glory to add the more distinguished Character of Christian."
A patriot is someone who loves, supports, and defends his country. The troops who fought in the American Revolution certainly demonstrated patriotism. However, Washington knew that success in the country they were fighting to establish required more than love of country. It required love of God. We need to be strong warriors in the spiritual battlefields of life.
Bible verse to read:
"Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand." - Ephesians 6:10-13
Family Discussion Questions:
How might someone demonstrate patriotism?
How might a Christian demonstrate being a good, spiritual warrior for God?
Why do you think Washington wanted his soldiers to be good Christians as well as patriots?