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About this quote

What does it mean?
A nation that ignores moral and natural laws cannot expect divine favor or success.
In plain terms
Ignoring right and wrong leads to failure and lack of blessing.
What can you take from it?
Moral order is essential for national prosperity.

Where it applies

  • public policy
  • leadership
  • cultural values

Putting it to work

  • uphold ethical standards
  • teach moral rules

Questions to consider

  • What rules guide your nation?
  • Is morality practical?

Another view

Success can sometimes occur without moral adherence.

More from George Washington

  1. We ought not to look back unless it is to derive useful lessons from past errors, and for the purpose of profiting by dear-bought experience.

    Permalink to quote #113
  2. When we assumed the Soldier, we did not lay aside the Citizen.

    Permalink to quote #115
  3. To err is natural; to rectify error is glory.

    Permalink to quote #112

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