Mount Vernon, October 24, 1798.

That there may be no occasion to gird on the Sword, none more ardently prays than I do; and no one, with more truth could add, that, if unfortunately, in defence of our rights we shall be compelled to unsheath I hope, after the object is attained, would return it to its Scabbard with more heart-felt satisfaction. But to avert the evil, or to meet it like men it is necessary under the present aspect of our Affairs to hold it in our hands, and be united in one band.

Your prayers, and kind wishes in my behalf, I reciprocate with great Cordiality ⁴²

13. Washington’s final written prayer in 1799. Preparing for death, Washington referred to God. He used the Christian custom of beginning this official document in God’s name.

Last Will And Testament

In the name of God amen.

I George Washington of Mount Vernon, a citizen of the United States, and lately President of the same, do make, orda[in] and declare this Instrument; w[hic]h is written with my own hand [an]d every page thereof subscribed [wit]h my name, to be my last Will and [Tes]tament, revoking all others.⁴³

FOR WHOM AND FOR WHAT DID WASHINGTON PRAY?

It is fascinating to consider to whom Washington was writing when he composed these personal prayers. Above, we’ve already considered some of the names on Washington’s prayer list. Yet Washington’s letters contain many more written prayers in various lengths. A study of Washington’s prayers reveal the specifics for which he prayed, manifesting the breadth of his prayer life. The references after the following headings refer to appendix 3, and the specific section where these prayer requests can be found.

Prayer Requests Expressed By Washington for Days of Prayer and Fasting: (Section 2)

Confession and forgiveness of sin

Averting war

Addressing the grievances of Americans against Britain

Providential mercy

Protection and success

Prayer Requests Expressed By Washington for Himself and Family: (Section 3)

To continue to deserve the good sentiments of people.

Safety for Martha

For his fears of the ruin of the military

For health concerns.

For escaping the calamities of war

For provisions for the successful conclusion of the war

For his retirement and return to domestic happiness and peace

For happiness

Prayer Requests Expressed By Washington for His Army and His Officers: (Section 4)

To finish the work

To be preserved and to prosper

To never again be in a state of the severe lack of needed items for life

For success and a safe return from a mission

To avert another campaign

For justice

For heaven’s favor here and in the hereafter

For peace

Prayer Requests Expressed By Washington for Peace: (Section 5)

Prayer Requests Expressed By Washington for Citizens and Cities: (Section 6)

For aid in their efforts for liberty

For the favour of heaven

To recover ease and happiness

For the choicest blessings

For liberties to continue to the latest posterity

For the traces of war to be gone

For enriched commerce

To set examples of wisdom and liberality so that the union would be permanent at home and respected abroad.

Prayer Requests Expressed By Washington for Native American Tribes: (Section 12)

That they would be wise and strong

That they would walk the right path

That they would not be deceived and turn against America

That the Great Spirit would preserve them

Prayer Requests Expressed By Washington For A National Thanksgiving: (Section 13)

Pardon of sins