America is a nation under God. This is not a consequence of legislative mandate, but of the spiritual commitment of a people. Through out our history, we have turned to God for guidance, for sustenance, and in gratitude for the blessings of freedom. … We do not assume God’s favor, but we seek it. We do not suppose that our way is God’s way, but we pray for the wisdom to understand God’s way, and the grace to let it be our own. For we know that neither wealth, nor wisdom, nor strength of arms can sustain a nation’s greatness, except that God look with favor on the purposes of that nation and its people.
– President Richard Nixon, National Day of Prayer Proclamation, October 5, 1973
