‘Separation of church and state’ is about limiting the government

Wednesday, January 29, 2025

Kingdom Friend,

Thank you for standing in agreement prayer! This week, we pray into the true meaning of “separation of church and state”.

⬇️ P.S. — Ray Charles. If a blind, black man born in 1930s Georgia can love his country, then I'm sure we can. Hear his classic, America the Beautiful.

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‘Separation of church and state’ is about limiting the government, not American citizens

Did you know “separation of church and state” isn’t actually in the United States Constitution?

The phrase comes from an 1801 letter Thomas Jefferson wrote to the Danbury Baptists. He wanted to reassure them that the First Amendment built a “wall of separation” to keep the government from meddling in religious expression—not to kick faith out of public life.

The Founders made it clear: the government can’t create a national religion or stop people from practicing their faith. This was all about limiting the government, not individuals. Early Americans embraced a biblical model where church and state have distinct but complementary roles, ensuring freedom of religion for everyone.

Today, this principle often gets twisted to silence faith in public spaces, which is the opposite of what the First Amendment stands for. Understanding the real history helps us stand up for religious freedom—a cornerstone of our liberty.

Adapted from ‘How to Respond to Separation of Church and State’ (Wallbuilders)

American citizens can proclaim the Kingdom of God in any public space

We can draw on America's founding prayers, covenants, documents, and early experiences as "prayer architecture" for today. Adapt the prayer language below to your voice as the Holy Spirit guides you.

Heavenly Father, we hold fast to American DNA. Thank You for the wisdom of our Founders who sought to PROTECT OUR FREEDOM TO WORSHIP YOU WITHOUT INTERFERENCE. Remind us of the true purpose of the First Amendment—to ensure that faith has a rightful place in public life. 📖 "Do not move the ancient landmark that your fathers have set" (Proverbs 22.28 ESV).

Raise up LEADERS WHO UNDERSTAND AND HONOR THIS TRUTH. Give them wisdom to uphold liberty and protect the natural rights of all people which come from you. 📖 “Look for able men from all the people, men who fear God, who are trustworthy and hate a bribe, and place such men over the people” (Exodus 18.21 ESV).

Father God, we ask for clarity and discernment as we navigate the challenges of our time. Give us accurate perception. Thank You for the principle of SEPARATING STATE CONTROL FROM THE EXPRESSION OF OUR FAITH in all domains of life and society. 📖 “The spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him, the eyes of your understanding being enlightened” (Ephesians 1.17-18).

All-powerful God, we ask for your hand in ensuring GODLY SUCCESS in establishing the new administration in Washington. 📖"Let justice roll down like waters, and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream" (Amos 5.24 ESV).

Let’s join together in prayer for the SENATE’S ROLE IN REVIEWING AND APPROVING APPOINTEES for the new administration. We believe for an administration that SETS A STANDARD OF EXCELLENCE—standing firm against lawlessness and incompetence.

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Brian Del Turco
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