A Leader That Believed

Born into a farm family, this young man worked hard and long until his father died. He then became a bank clerk. He also tried his hand at many business ventures but they all failed. He became a field officer in World War I and he served overseas.

He later married and became a shopkeeper in Kansas City. Eventually he entered politics where in 1944 he was selected to run as Vice-President with President Roosevelt. Eighty-two days later he became President when Roosevelt died.

Upon taking over the presidency, here is what he said to Congress: “At this moment I have a prayer in my head, as I have assumed my heavy duties. I humbly pray, Almighty God, in the words of King Solomon. Give therefore thy servant an understanding heart to judge they people. That I may discern between good and bad, for who is able to judge this day so great a people? I ask only to be a good and faithful servant of my Lord and my people.”

                This President went on to pray this prayer in 1950: “Oh Mighty and Everlasting God, Creator of heaven, earth and the universe: help me to think and act what is right because it is right. Make me truthful, honest and honorable in all things.

Make me intellectually honest for the sake of right and honor and without thought of reward to me. Give me the ability to be charitable, forgiving and patient with my fellow man. Help me to understand their motives and their shortcomings even as Thou understandeth mine. Amen.”

There are several of this President’s prayers connecting the God of the Bible to everyday living for morality to faith. We need such leadership today by those who won’t give speeches that have to be politically correct, that will recognize the only true God as the supreme of all and will not waiver, and that will be like our 33rd President from Lamar, Missouri, Harry S. Truman.