Governor Alfred E. Smith of New York, a prominent American political leader of the 20th century and twice a candidate for the presidency, stated in his final public appearance why he believed God would never abandon the United States. Speaking of this country, Smith stated, “I have been taught to look upon this country as designed and founded by Divine Providence itself to be the haven of rest and the harbor of refuge for the downtrodden and the oppressed of every land.” From America’s earliest days, men and women throughout the world have sought its shores seeking this promise. A young woman from New York City— herself a descendant of immigrants to the United States—penned the poem that is quoted on the Statue of Liberty in New York Harbor: “Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free, the wretched refuse of your teeming shore. Send these, the homeless, tempest-tost to me, I lift my lamp beside the golden door!” (Emma Lazarus, “The New Colossus”). Millions of people from all over the world have been inspired by America’s assurance of liberty and justice for all. But for students of the Bible and many others, the questions arise: Will America continue to offer this promise? And at the close of human history as foretold in Bible prophecy, will America still be the world’s champion of freedom?
Originally Published: 2019-04-20