The Constitutional Convention deadlocked over how large and small states could be represented equally. So troubling grew the dilemma that some delegates gave up and left. Then, on June 28, 1787, 81-year-old Benjamin Franklin stood up to speak. Shortly thereafter, the U.S. Constitution became a reality. As recorded by James Madison, here’s what Franklin said:
Groping as it were in the dark to find political truth, and scarce able to distinguish it when presented to us, how has it happened, Sir, that we have not hitherto once thought of humbly applying to the Father of lights . . . ?
In the beginning of the Contest with Great Britain, when we were sensible of danger, we had daily prayer in this room for Divine protection. Our prayers, Sir, were heard and they were graciously answered. All of us who were engaged in the struggle must have observed frequent instances of a Superintending Providence in our favor . . .
And have we now forgotten that powerful Friend? or do we imagine we no longer need His assistance?. . .
We have been assured, Sir, in the Sacred Writings, that “except the Lord build the House, they labor in vain that build it.” . . . I also believe that without His concurring aid we shall succeed . . . no better than the Builders of Babel.
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