‘Reader! Remember This.’

In 1765, Virginia’s legislature passed the Virginia Resolves in response to the British taxes, namely the Stamp Act. The Resolves denied Britain’s legal authority to tax the American colonies. Patrick Henry (1736–1799) voted in favor. After his death, a copy of these resolutions was found in his papers. On the back, in his handwriting, was his summary of the American Revolution, in which he cited the book of Proverbs in support of the morality that he believed was necessary to make the new country thrive and prosper:

“The great point of resistance to British taxation was universally established in the colonies. This brought on the war which finally separated the two countries and gave independence to ours. Whether this will prove a blessing or a curse, will depend upon the use our people make of the blessings which a gracious God hath bestowed on us. If they are wise, they will be great and happy. If they are of a contrary character, they will be miserable. Righteousness alone can exalt them as a nation [Proverbs 14:34]. Reader! Whoever thou art, remember this; and in thy sphere practice virtue thyself, and encourage it in others.”

Reflection

What does Patrick Henry see as the necessary basis for liberty and happiness? The verse he quotes from Proverbs was widely used during the time of the American founding. Look at today’s Bible passage to see the biblical wisdom that surrounds it. Does anything stand out to you? What message would you leave behind for an unknown reader?