In 1954 the phrase “under God” was added to the Pledge of Allegiance.

Some schools begin the day with everyone reciting the “Pledge of Allegiance” together. It’s a way of honoring the nation and of showing unity. When we say, “I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands,” we are saying that we will be loyal to our “one nation.” Then we add, “under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.”

Added in 1954, the phrase “under God” is more than a nod his way—sort of like saying, “God’s OK, or “See, we’re religious.” Under means submission, obedience. If a soldier, for example, says that he serves “under” a certain army officer, he is saying that the officer is his “commander” and leader. What the officer says, he does, no questions asked.

When we say “under God,” then, we are promising to listen to God and to obey him because he is our leader, our commander.

God is also acknowledged on our coins. Check one out and you’ll see the phrase, “In God we trust.” This means, simply, that we rely on him, not on money, government, or anything else to satisfy us.

Most Americans say the phrase in the pledge (and spend the money) so quickly that they don’t even know what they’re saying. When we say the Pledge, we’re pledging allegiance to much more than a flag or a country—we are pledging loyalty to God.

So why don’t we live like it?

When you bow down before the Lord and admit your dependence on him, he will lift you up and give you honor. (James 4:10)

To Do

At your next meal with your family, suggest that you say the Pledge of Allegiance together. After, explain to everyone what “under God” means. Then pray together, thanking God for this nation and for his love and goodness.

Also on this day . . .

This is Flag Day.

This is Family History Day.

1775—The U.S. Army was formed.

1834—Isaac Fischer Jr. patented sandpaper.

From Betsy Schmitt and Dave Veerman, 365 Trivia Twist Devotions: An Almanac of Fun Facts and Spiritual Truth for Every Day of the Year (Cincinnati: Standard, 2005). Scripture quotations are from the New Living Translation unless otherwise noted.