NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER 2026

George Washington’s Secret Prayers at Valley Forge

This iconic painting “The Prayer at Valley Forge” by Arnold Friberg has inspired generations of Americans. It captures one of the most powerful images from the Revolutionary War: George Washington on his knees in the snow at Valley Forge, praying alone for strength and divine help.

The scene was inspired by a compelling eyewitness tradition from the winter of 1777–1778.

The Isaac Potts Account

A local Quaker named Isaac Potts reportedly overheard Washington praying fervently in the woods near Valley Forge. 

As recounted in Rev. Nathaniel Randolph Snowden’s diary (early 19th century), Potts described riding near the encampment, hearing a voice, and discovering Washington on his knees in the woods. His sword and hat lay beside him as he prayed with deep emotion. Potts said:

“I heard a plaintive sound as of a man at prayer… to my astonishment I saw the great George Washington on his knees alone… He was at Prayer to the God of the Armies, beseeching to interpose with his Divine aid, as it was ye Crisis and the cause of the country, of humanity, and of the world. Such a prayer I never heard from the lips of man.”

Potts later told his wife that this moment convinced him the American cause would ultimately succeed — because their leader placed his trust in God.

While modern historians note that some dramatic details (like the exact kneeling-in-the-snow posture) were likely embellished over time, multiple independent accounts confirm that private prayer was a genuine habit for Washington during the darkest days of the war.

Additional Historical Accounts

Anthony Sherman’s Recollection

A soldier who served under Washington gave this direct testimony in an 1859 account:

“You have doubtless heard the story of Washington going to the thicket to pray. Well, it was not only true, but he often used to pray in secret for aid and comfort from God, the interposition of whose Divine Providence brought us safely through the darkest days of tribulation.”

Anonymous Female Resident at Valley Forge

A woman living near the encampment told a friend shortly after the army departed that it was Washington’s regular habit to retire a short distance from camp to worship God in prayer. She had observed him doing so consistently.

These accounts align with Washington’s lifelong pattern of faith — a pattern rooted in the daily Bible reading, family prayers, and emphasis on “secret prayer” taught by his mother, Mary Ball Washington.

At Valley Forge, where the Continental Army endured bitter cold, starvation, disease, and despair, Washington’s private dependence on God was evidenced. His example echoes across the centuries and reminds us that the most powerful leadership often flows from humble, hidden communion with God.

Washington sought strength not first from strategy or supplies, but from the “God of the Armies.” And the army that emerged that spring — better trained, more unified, and ultimately victorious — stands as a testament to the sustaining power of providence and prayer.

A Call to Prayer on This National Day of Prayer

On this National Day of Prayer (May 7, 2026), with the theme “Glorify God Among the Nations — Seeking Him in All Generations,” we are invited to do the same. Whether in the quiet of our homes, in houses of worship, or in the public square, let us follow Washington’s pattern: humble ourselves, seek God’s face, and trust in His providence for our nation. Today is a day to pray for America—for unity, wisdom for our leaders, moral courage, and a renewed dependence on the God who has sustained this land through many trials.

May the image of a kneeling commander stir us to our own knees. The same God who heard Washington in the woods at Valley Forge is listening still.

Let us pray!