Mike Smith:
On August 27, 1776, the Revolutionary army was on the brink of defeat. British general Howe had trapped General Washington and his 8,000 troops on Brooklyn Heights. In an act of desperation, Washington gathered every vessel, from fishing boat to rowboat, and spent the night ferrying his army across the East River. A thick fog aided the escape.

In the freezing winter of 1777, the army was camped at Valley Forge. Supplies were short and the troops were suffering. Washington was able to rally the troops and remain firm in his faith. The army pulled through despite many losses.

The lessons of his childhood, learned from his parents, prepared Washington to face this hardship with integrity, a belief in the centrality of Providence, and a firm reliance on God.

Many events occurred during the Revolutionary War which Washington saw as acts of Providence. “The providential train of circumstances which led to it affords the most convincing proof that the Liberties of America are the object of [a] divine Protection.”

Washington recognized the hand of God and embraced the events unfolding in front of him. He pursued his goals. And finally, on October 19, 1781, the British troops under Lord Cornwallis surrendered at Yorktown.

The new country would breathe free.

And until next time, I’m Mike Smith.