In God We Trust // Psalm 56:11

Today is “In God We Trust“ Day. The background is the US began allowing “In God We Trust” to appear on coins in 1864. ”In God We Trust“ became the official motto of the nation in 1956 replacing E Pluribus Unum (out of many, one) which had been the motto since 1776. The faith based phrase gained popularity during the Civil War and is a renewed callback to how our nation overcame some of its greatest evil and strife to become what it is today. Now we see “In God We Trust” on our currency, in schools, other government institutions and buildings.

History points to Psalm 56:11 as the biblical inspiration for the motto, “In God We Trust.” That verse reads, “In God I trust; I shall not be afraid. What can man do to me?” FYI, man, as it’s mentioned in this verse, refers to the totality of humanity and not just a singular adult human male. Obviously, we can be pretty awful to each other, can’t we? The fact this verse and new motto became a rallying cry during the Civil War points to a need to trust God amidst the trauma we inflict on others. It is to remind us that God is bigger than any of our problems…self-inflicted and otherwise; therefore, God deserves our trust above anyone or anything, including government!

So, I hope you do more than look at a coin on this In God We Trust Day. Start by looking to Christ. Find in Him the embodiment of God’s presence and power. Let His victory over sin and death become your strength to face the future unafraid. May we all reflect the image of God on this National In God We Trust Day, and every day for that matter!