Washington’s Prophetic Vision of America | Independence Day Special

George Washington and a Heavenly Visitor.
The story of George Washington's* recounting of his prophetic vision was originally published by Wesley Bradshaw. Copied from a reprint in the National Tribune, Vol. 4, No. 12, December 1880. First published there in 1859.

Various accounts of George Washington's vision and prophecy all agree in content. There have been only minor variations in some details as the story was repeated over the years by those to whom it was related by General Washington.

The place was Valley Forge, in the cold and bitter winter of 1777. Washington's army suffered several reverses and the situation was desperate. Food was scarce. The Continental Congress was not sending supplies or money. Some of the troops did not even have shoes to wear in the snow. Many soldiers were sick and dying from disease and exposure. Morale was at an all-time low and there was great agitation in the Colonies against continued effort to secure our freedom from England. Nevertheless, General Washington was determined to see the struggle through.

These are the words of a first-hand observer, Anthony Sherman, who was there and describes the situation: "You doubtless heard the story of Washington's going to the thicket to pray in secret for aid and comfort from God, the interposition of whose Divine Providence brought us safely through the darkest days of tribulation."

"One day, I remember it well, when the chilly winds whistled through the leafless trees, though the sky was cloudless and the sun shown brightly, he remained in his quarters nearly all the afternoon alone. When he came out, I noticed that his face was a shade paler than usual. There seemed to be something on his mind of more than ordinary importance. Returning just after dusk, he dispatched an orderly to the quarters who was presently in attendance. After a preliminary conversation of about an hour, Washington, gazing upon his companion with that strange look of dignity which he alone commanded, related the event that occurred that day."

The paintings of George Washington kneeling in prayer in the snow-covered woods of Valley Forge are based on fact. He believed that God would lead him to victory, and anyone who has read his hand written letters and documents cannot help but be impressed by his reliance on the Almighty and his deep belief in Divine Guidance.

Strengthened by a sense of duty and honor, driven by a love of freedom and a hunger for justice, sustained by faith and confidence in divine providence - George Washington would not fail. He would fulfill his destiny. This uncommon man would lead the colonial forces to victory, become the father of our country, be unanimously acclaimed our first President, and set the course for what was to become history's greatest nation.

AN ADMONITION
Sons and Daughters of the Republic, you are living in the most crucial and momentous period in the history of mankind. It will be a time of great trial. The events foretold are not only foretold in George Washington's vision; but the Holy Bible as well and they are coming. There is no escape. The only question is whether or not you will have the judgment, courage, and sense of destiny to stand with those of us who already stand; for with the help of Almighty God and his son; Jesus Christ our savior, we shall be victorious!