Many Americans do not fully know the faith-filled story behind the nation’s origins. In today's prayer and devotional, Lynette Kittle shares how long before the United States existed, a small group of Christian separatists—the Pilgrims—risked everything to worship Jesus freely and to practice their faith without fear. Their journey, grounded in prayer, Scripture, and dependence on God, laid a foundation that ultimately influenced the birth of a nation built on biblical principles.

Seeking to follow Christ according to their convictions, the Pilgrims left England due to persecution and later departed Holland when secular influences threatened their children’s faith. Their bold voyage across the Atlantic in 1620 was not a pursuit of comfort but a pursuit of the freedom to worship God in truth and sincerity.

America’s early identity was shaped through this legacy of faith, humility, and thanksgiving. Even before our nation was formed, colonial leaders called for days of prayer, fasting, and gratitude to God. Later, Presidents Washington, Adams, and Madison continued this practice, acknowledging that national blessings flow from the hand of Almighty God. Eventually, Thanksgiving became a national holiday through the persistence of Sarah Josepha Hale, who believed a national day of gratitude was a “pledge of Christian faith in God.”

Today, the same call remains: remember what God has done, give Him thanks, and pray for America to remain anchored in His truth.

Today's Bible Reading:
“Give praise to the Lord, proclaim His name; make known among the nations what He has done.” – Psalm 105:1

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Takeaway Truths

• America’s earliest foundations were shaped by believers seeking freedom to worship God.

• Thanksgiving has deep Christian roots tied to prayer, humility, and national gratitude.

• God calls His people to remember His works and proclaim His faithfulness to the nations.

• We can pray for America to return to biblical truth and godly leadership.

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Let’s Pray

Dear Father,
We lift our voices to praise and thank You for America. We acknowledge that it was Your hand that guided the Pilgrims to a new land where they could worship Christ freely. Thank You for establishing this nation on godly principles and granting us the blessing of religious liberty.

Remind us this Thanksgiving of the believers who trusted You enough to leave everything behind for the sake of Your glory. Strengthen and restore America’s spiritual foundation. Lead our nation’s leaders to return to Your Word, Your truth, and Your righteousness.

Above all, thank You for the gift of Salvation through Jesus Christ—undeserved, unearned, and freely given. May our hearts remain humble and full of gratitude for all You have done.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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Additional Scriptures

• James 4:10

• Psalm 33:12

• 1 Thessalonians 5:16–18

• Psalm 105:1–5

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Related Resources

• 7 Epic Things You Didn't Know about Pilgrims - Crosswalk.com

• The Christian Roots of Thanksgiving – Christianity.com

• More encouraging devotionals available at LifeAudio.com

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