As we begin this year, many patriots across our nation have already started preparing and anticipating America’s 250th birthday.

And many hearts have dedicated this New Year as a time of fresh beginnings, new opportunities and another chance to intentionally walk out the call to “put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life” (Ephesians 4:22).

As we reflect on former ways and prepare to walk in a new way, let us also consider how our Heavenly Father used our forefather, George Washington, to prepare a new path for a nation, one rooted in God’s light and open to His blessings.

On the morning of January 1, 1776, General George Washington and his weary soldiers gathered in Cambridge, Massachusetts to dedicate the newly formed Continental Army. As the sun rose, they raised the Grand Union Flag for the first time (the earliest version of the American flag). Washington called the men to a worship service, committing the new year and the cause of liberty to Almighty God.

They did not begin the year with celebration or comfort, but with humility and faith, knowing their hope did not rest in strength or strategy, but in the hand of Almighty God.

So, on that very first day of 1776, before the Declaration of Independence was even drafted, the year began with prayer, fasting, and dedication to God’s will for the future of this land.

That simple act of surrender marked the beginning of America’s journey with God.

“Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord.”~Psalm 33:12

America’s story reminds us that every victory, every freedom, and every blessing begins when we humble ourselves and surrender it all to God.

So, let us start this New Year, new season and new way of life in dedication to God. Let us pray for God to lead and guide us and for His will to be done throughout this year.

May our nation return to being led by God through the faithful prayers and worship of its committed citizens, We the People. And may the result be a nation that repents of any former “sinful ways” leading to revival that would spread throughout this nation, in every home and every heart. HAPPY NEW YEAR AND GOD BLESS AMERICA!