A Land of Promise

A Land of Promise

"To make us love our country, our country ought to be lovely." -Edmund Burke

The United States of America is my home, but it is also much more than that. It is a land of liberty
opportunity, and promise. Millions of people have traveled across plains and seas chasing the American dream.

During the summer months of 2016, I lived in India. While I was there, my friend and translator asked me, "Why do you think that America is so advanced?" My mind almost immediately thought about entrepreneurship, liberty, and the free market system. After thinking for a moment, other things such as fertile soil, rich resources, and mild climate also came to mind. I started responding with those answers, but something inside of me knew that I was overlooking something much bigger.  For weeks afterwards, the question lingered. Why is America so advanced?

I would pose the same question to you. Why do you believe that America is an advanced nation? While there are potentially hundreds of things that have contributed to the advancement and progress of America, I would like to explore what I perceive as the most important and meaningful reason as to why the United States of America is an advanced nation.

In this document, I will not focus on the wrong doings of political parties or government in general. I do recognize that no nation is perfect, and the United States of America is no exception. America has her scars, but rather than focus on those scars, I would like to focus on the things that made this country great and invite you to do your part in making it better.

I will first show evidence that America is a choice and promised land. I will then discuss the birth of the nation, the nation's current condition, and finally, what we can do to improve our cause.

A Choice Land

More than two thousand years ago, a prophet living in the American continent named Nephi spoke of the ordained purpose of this land.

“This land shall be a land of liberty … and there shall be no kings upon [it]. …
“… For I, the Lord, the king of heaven, will be their king, and I will be a light unto them forever, that hear my words. . . For it is a choice land, saith God … wherefore I will have all men that dwell thereon that they shall worship me” (2 Ne. 10:11–19).

Some time after the life of Nephi, a Prophet named Moroni also spoke of this land as being a choice land. He spent his life witnessing the destruction of his people. He declared a promise and warning to all those who would possess the land where his people once lived.

For behold, this is a land which is choice above all other lands; wherefore he that doth possess it shall serve God or shall be swept off; for it is the everlasting decree of God. And it is not until the fulness of iniquity among the children of the land, that they are swept off. . . . Behold, this is a choice land, and whatsoever nation shall possess it shall be free from bondage, and from captivity, and from all other nations under heaven, if they will but serve the God of the land, who is Jesus Christ, who hath been manifested by the things which we have written. (Ether 2: 8-12)

Both prophets boldly proclaimed truths about a choice land where inhabitants would worship, serve, and follow God. As the people follow "the God of the Land, who is Jesus Christ...", they are promised marvelous blessings. They are promised that they will be free from bondage, captivity, and from all other nations, and that they will never be subject to an earthly king. These are incredible promises!

The earth's history is riddled with tales of kings, rulers, and empires. Many lands are plagued by almost constant war, political unrest, corruption, poverty, or division. The world has been filled with populations who either didn't know God, or didn't have the freedom to follow Him. For a purpose known to God, He has prepared a place that would be different. He consecrated or reserved America as a choice land. It has prospered because of His promise and blessing. Those who arrived to this land thousands of years ago were guided by the hand of God and were given a land for their inheritance. Lehi, another ancient prophet, testified of that guidance by saying:

...there shall none come into this land save they shall be brought by the hand of the Lord. Wherefore, this land is consecrated unto him whom he shall bring." (2 Nephi 1:6-7)

About 500 years ago, a new group of people arrived on the continent. They too were guided by God to this land.

The Beginnings of a New Nation

In another revelation given to Nephi, he saw the arrival of the gentiles upon the American Continent:

And it came to pass that I beheld the Spirit of God, that it wrought upon other Gentiles; and they went forth out of captivity, upon the many waters. . . And I beheld the Spirit of the Lord, that it was upon the Gentiles, and they did prosper and obtain the land for their inheritance; and I beheld that they were white, and exceedingly fair and beautiful, like unto my people before they were slain. And it came to pass that I, Nephi, beheld that the Gentiles who had gone forth out of captivity did humble themselves before the Lord; and the power of the Lord was with them.(1 Nephi 13:13-16)

In 1492, A man named Christopher Columbus arrived upon the American Continent while searching for a trade route to the East Indies. In the year 1607, Jamestown was founded and the colonization of America began. Nephi continues by telling of the battle for independence:

And I beheld that their mother Gentiles were gathered together upon the waters, and upon the land also, to battle against them. And I beheld that the power of God was with them, and also that the wrath of God was upon all those that were gathered together against them to battle. And I, Nephi, beheld that the Gentiles that had gone out of captivity were delivered by the power of God out of the hands of all other nations. (1 Nephi 13:17-19)

The United States began her struggle for independence in 1776 with the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Independence was declared upon the principle that "all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness" (Declaration of Independence, 1776). The declaration confirmed that a revolutionary war would be fought.

The founding fathers spoke powerfully of the providence that assisted them during their struggle for independence. During the revolutionary war that would ultimately lead to the independence of the United States, George Washington recognized the assistance of God in the following letter to Joseph Reed:

"It is impossible to govern the world without God. It is the duty of all nations to acknowledge the Providence of Almighty God, to obey his will, to be grateful for his benefits and humbly implore his protection and favor. I am sure there never was a people who had more reason to acknowledge a divine interposition in their affairs, than those of the United States;..." (George Washington to Joseph Reed, 1778).

After eight years of war and several more years of struggling through the Articles of Confederation, the Constitution was ratified in 1788 and a new country was formed.

In a revelation given to Joseph Smith, we gain a greater understanding of the inspiration behind the Constitution and the forming of the United States.

Therefore, it is not right that any man should be in bondage one to another. And for this purpose have I established the Constitution of this land, by the hands of wise men whom I raised up unto this very purpose, and redeemed the land by the shedding of blood (Doctrine and Covenants 101:79-80).

God played a vital role in the founding of this nation. Both scripture and references from founding fathers teach of that truth. Regarding the Constitution, President George Washington said, "[The adoption of the Constitution] will demonstrate as visibly the finger of Providence as any possible event in the course of human affairs can ever designate it." Benjamin Franklin also made reference to God's hand in the creation of the constitution when he said,

I have so much faith in the general government of the world by Providence that I can hardly conceive a transaction of such momentous importance [as the framing of the Constitution] ... should be suffered to pass without being in some degree influenced, guided, and governed by that omnipotent, omnipresent, and beneficent Ruler whom all inferior spirits live and move and have their being."

The founders recognized the hand of Providence that guided the establishing of this nation. They recognized it and invited us to do the same. George Washington said,

"No people can be bound to acknowledge and adore the invisible hand which conducts the affairs of men more than the people of the United States. Every step, by which they have advanced to the character of an independent nation, seems to have been distinguished by some token of providential agency "(Writings of George Washington, 30:292) .

Having Inherited this Land...

Lets consider once again the question that my friend and interpreter from India asked me during the summer of 2016. What makes America so advanced?

America is advanced because of one simple reason: The Creator of this world has decreed it. He held aside this plot of land so that there would be a place where all men could be free and worship Him.

We as a people are not inherently great because we have inherited this land. There is nothing particularly special about those of us who live here. To believe that we are great or special for having inherited this land would be a type of Ignorant Patriotism. Ignorant Patriotism is all around us. It is manifest when our citizens love America just because it's home, say "Murica" every chance they get, are blind to social or cultural shortcomings, and believe they're somehow entitled to the bounty that they find here. Ignorant Patriotism does nothing to improve our country and I believe it does more harm than good. Some, perhaps out of spite of this Ignorant Patriotism, emphasize America's scars and ignore any good that she has done in the world.

In contrast, a Humble Patriotism comes to one who realizes his/her inherited obligation that comes with being an American-An obligation that can only be felt when one recognizes the bounty, liberty, and peace that have been provided by a loving God. This type of patriotism comes with a sense of responsibility to become something as a result of the abundance that is before us. Humble patriotism inspires an awakening to ensure the promises and blessings of the constitution not only to neighbors, but to others across the world.

The Awakening inspired by Humble Patriotism is vital for the well-being of the Nation. When one recognizes the bounty and prosperity that has been granted them by simply living in America, it is impossible not to be overcome with gratitude. A grateful heart is moved to act in behalf of the less fortunate both at home and abroad. For some, action taken in behalf of the less fortunate will mean giving time, for others, it will mean donating money, but in all cases, it will result in the poor and needy being lifted by Humble Patriots.

Our Current State 

Over 200 years have passed since the signing of the Constitution. During that time, great advancements and accomplishments have been made. New amendments and court decisions have secured equal rights for all men and women regardless of race, ethnicity or gender. Wars have been fought to protect freedom and liberty at home and abroad. New technologies and ideologies have spread that have helped reduce poverty and hunger in the United States and across the world.

Throughout our history, great advancements have been brought about by the grace of God and the hard work of the American people. In recent years, however, viewpoints on issues have grown to polar extremes, There seems to be more division over political issues than ever before.

Last October in a democratic debate, Hilary Clinton said that "Republicans were one of the enemies that she [had] made during her political career that she [was] most proud of" (Breitbart, 2015). The democratic nominee for the presidency of the United States proudly labeled half of the nation as her enemy. Presidential Elect Donald Trump spent little time discussing issues during his campaign. Instead, he attacked and degraded all who wouldn't support him.

It seems as though we have become far more concerned with being right, than what is right. We have allowed our egos, pride, and differences in opinions to tear us apart.

The founding fathers also had heated disagreements. They disagreed on the size and power of the federal government. They disagreed on what powers should be left to the individual states. They argued over numerous issues that were relevant to their time. The things that they argued over were similar to the things that cause heated debates today. In those days, they found a way to unite around a common cause to create a nation with limitless potential. I pray that we too can unite to continue the success of our nation.

The Root of our Problems

I believe that there is one underlying issue that is the cause of our division. This issue is ancient and has poisoned every wealthy nation that has inhabited the earth. I will again turn to a scripture from the Book of Mormon that explains the core issue of our republic.

Yea, and we may see at the very time when he doth prosper his people, yea, in the increase of their fields, their flocks and their herds, and in gold, and in silver, and in all manner of precious things of every kind and art; sparing their lives and delivering them out of the hands of their enemies; softening the hearts of their enemies that they should not declare wars against them; yea and in fine, doing all things for the welfare and happiness of his people; yea, then is the time that they do harden their hearts, and do forget the Lord their God, and do trample under their feet the Holy One -- yea, and this because of their ease, and their exceedingly great prosperity (Helaman 12:2).

Over the years, hearts have grown harder and we have trampled the Holy One under our feet. Virtue and morality have taken the backseat as riotous living has become mainstream. Hollywood and media are filled with sex, drugs, and violence. Each year seems to bring more corruption, and less morality. Understanding and compassion have been lost because love has gone missing and pride is strong.

The founders knew that virtue and morality were vital to the success of the nation. John Adams understood that no government or constitution could be powerful enough to govern an immoral people. Regarding morality, John Adams said, 

"We have no government armed with power capable of contending with human passions unbridled by morality and religion. Avarice, ambition, revenge, or gallantry, would break the strongest cords of our Constitution as a whale goes through a net. Our Constitution was made only for a moral and religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the government of any other" (John Adams, 1798).

George Washington also understood the importance of religion and morality. He said the following:

Of all the dispositions and habits which lead to political prosperity, religion, and morality are indispensable supports. In vain would that man claim the tribute of patriotism, who should labor to subvert these great pillars of human happiness, these firmest props of the duties of men and citizens...Let it simply be asked, where is the security for property, for reputation, for life, if the sense of religious obligation desert the oaths which are the instruments of investigation in courts of justice? And let us with caution indulge the supposition that morality can be maintained without religion. Whatever may be conceded to the influence of refined education ... reason and experience both forbid us to expect that national morality can prevail in exclusion of religious principle. (The Washington Papers, 318-319)

No government can control a people who are immoral and unrestrained by virtue. Everyday, our society seems to distance itself from virtue. We have forgotten God and his goodness. We have forgotten from whom our bounty came. We no longer find understanding between our political parties because pride has grown large and love of neighbor has near disappeared. Trust in our fellowman is waning because of increasing amounts of sin and crime.

I believe that America is at a tipping point. America is a choice land that God has provided for a people who worship Him. If we, as a nation, continue to belittle the laws of God, we will be destroyed. Abraham Lincoln commented on the possibility of America's destruction by saying, "America will never be destroyed from the outside. If we falter and lose our freedoms, it will be because we destroyed ourselves" (Abraham Lincoln).

We are sewing our own destruction with our hate, division, and by the general disregard of holy things. We are dividing ourselves over issues instead of finding common ground. We are removing God from our lives and our Country. God has promised to guide us and provide for us, so long as we follow Him. If we do not follow Him, He has been clear that we will be swept off of this land.

A Return to Virtue

You have been presented with quotes and scripture that demonstrate the purpose of this land. You have experienced the hatred and division that has filled our country. Now it is time to act.

We desperately need a return to God and a return to Virtue. God will make this land prosper again if we will just follow Him. In the second book of Chronicles, there is an invitation and a promise.

If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land. (2 Chronicles 7:14)

God can and will heal this land if we will return to His side. He will help us remove our hatred, restore the lives of the downtrodden, and solve social ailments. We will prosper both temporally and spiritually if we will gather around the Creator and Giver of all things.

I invite you to do your part to restore virtue to America. Each of us can make a difference. We can change this country, one heart at a time. So please, choose love, choose understanding, and choose God. I know that if we do, He will heal our hearts and he will heal this land.



The Following are quotes and sources that helped me in the writing of this blog and are just really cool.

2 Nephi 1:7 - If Iniquity abounds, cursed shall be the land
Jacob 1:29, 3:3 - The people must keep the Lord's commandments or cursed be the land.
Alma 42:12-16
Alma 45:16 - The land is cursed unto destruction unto every people which do wickedly.
Helaman 5:2-3 - Corrupt laws and political leaders bring destruction
Ether 4:6-18 - Those who deny the word of the Lord shall be accursed and destroyed by fire.
Ether 8:21 - If a nation allows secret combinations to spread over it, the nation will be destroyed.
Ether 8:23-26 - A secret combination will seek to overthrow the freedom of all nations.


"Patriotism means loving your country, not because it's yours, but because it's good." Dinesh d'souza

Shall we expect some transatlantic military giant, to step over the ocean, and crush us at a blow? Never! - All the armies of Europe, Asia and Africa combined, with all the treasure of the earth (our own excepted) in their military chest; with a Bonaparte for a commander, could not by force, take a drink from the Ohio, or make a track on the Blue Ridge, in a trial of a thousand years. At what point, then, is the approach of danger to be expected? I answer, if it ever reach us, it must spring up amongst us, It cannot come from abroad. If destruction be our lot, we must ourselves be its author and finisher. As a nation of freemen, we must live through all time, or die by suicide.
Abraham Lincoln

Remember, democracy never lasts long. It soon wastes, exhausts, and murders itself.
John Adams

If ever time should come, when vain and aspiring men shall possess the highest seats in Government, our country will stand in need of its experienced patriots to prevent its ruin.
Samuel Adams

Every Step we take towards making the state our caretaker of our lives, by that much we move toward making the state our master.
Dwight D. Eisenhower

Man will ultimately be governed by God or by tyrants.
Benjamin Franklin

America will never be destroyed from the outside. If we falter and lose our freedoms, it will be because we destroyed ourselves.
Abraham Lincoln

Although your private concerns may call for your assistance at home, yet the voice of your country is still louder, and it is painful to heroic minds to quit the field when liberty calls, and the voice of injured millions cries "to arms! to arms!" Never was a cause more important than that which you are engaged in; not only your wives, your children, and distant posterity, but humanity at large, the world of mankind, are interested in it; for if tyranny should prevail in this great country, we may expect liberty will expire throughout the world. Therefore, more human glory and happiness may depend upon your exertions than ever yet depended upon any of the sons of men. He that is a soldier in defense of such a cause, needs no title; his post is a post of honor, and although not an emperor, yet he shall wear a crown -- of glory -- and blessed will be his memory.
General George Washington (speaking to soldiers at the end of their enlistment)

A general dissolution of principles and manners will more surely overthrow the liberties of America than the whole force of the common enemy. While the people are virtuous they cannot be subdued; but when once they lose their virtue then will be ready to surrender their liberties to the first external or internal invader.

Samuel Adams, letter to James Warren, February 12, 1779

Patrick Henry said, "It is when people forget God that tyrants forge their chains." (Patrick Henry)

Don't fire unless fired upon. But if they want a war let it begin here.

Captain John Parker, commander of the militiamen at Lexington, Massachusetts, on siting British Troops (attributed), April 19, 1775

A lady asked Dr. Franklin Well Doctor what have we got a republic or a monarchy — "A republic," replied the Doctor, "if you can keep it."

Anonymous, from Farrand's Records of the Federal Convention of 1787

"Freedom is never more than one generation from extinction. We didn't pass it to our children in the blood stream. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on for them to do the same."-Ronald Reagan

"The General is sorry to be informed -- that the foolish and wicked practice of profane cursing and swearing, a vice heretofore little known in an American army, is growing into fashion; -- he hopes the officers will, by example as well as influence, endeavor to check it, and that both they and the men will reflect that we can have little hope of the blessing of Heaven on our arms, if we insult it by impiety and folly..." -General Washington, 1770)

"Notwithstanding the trouble, notwithstanding the argument, notwithstanding the increasingly heavy hand of government, notwithstanding the spirit of arrogance we so often display, notwithstanding occasional corruption in public office and betrayal of sacred trust -- I marvel at the miracle of America. The land which the God of Heaven long ago declared to be a choice land. God bless America, for it is His creation." -Gordon B. Hinckley

A Promised Land by Jeffrey R. Holland
https://www.lds.org/ensign/1976/06/a-promised-land?lang=eng