Lessons of 2026
Lesson No. Nine

George Washington was a Good, Wise, and Honest Man

Note to readers. As we prepare to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence I will write regularly about founding principles and founding personalities. It is noteworthy that the Founding of the United States was primarily the work of young men. Washington was among the oldest of the Founding Fathers, he was 43 years old when he was given command of the Continental Army. After a lifetime of service, and when his work was finished, Washington died suddenly at Mount Vernon on December 14, 1799 at the age of 67.

George Washington was the preeminent Founder, and one of the great men of this dispensation. He played an essential role in the founding of the United States which was a necessary forerunner to the restoration of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Washington’s greatest and most lasting contribution is his example, as the first President of the United States, of goodness, wisdom, and honesty. (We will learn more the preeminence of Washington when we discuss the Founders visiting Wilford Woodruff in the St George temple asking that their temple work be done}

The Lord requires those who serve under the Constitution He established (see D&C 101:80) to be good, wise, and honest. President Ezra Taft Benson further explained: “It is vital that we follow this counsel from the Lord: “Honest men and wise men should be sought for diligently, and good men and wise men ye should observe to uphold; otherwise whatsoever is less than these cometh of evil” (D&C 98:10). Note the qualities that the Lord demands in those who are to represent us. They must be good, wise, and honest. We must be concerted in our desires and efforts to see men and women represent us who possess all three of these qualities” (The Constitution, A Heavenly Banner).

Washington has been admired by many generations of Americans. For example, when Joseph Smith ran for President of the United States in his platform he specially referred to the “great and illustrious Washington.” In the past Americans studied Washington’s life and admired his example. When we study the lives of people like Washington, it makes a difference in our own life. There are several good biographies of Washington, and I believe we are strengthened when we become familiar with the lives of great people.

Washington understood the importance of his example. He said: “I walk on untrodden ground. There is scarcely any part of my conduct which may not hereafter be drawn unto precedent.” As the Revolutionary War wound down, the monarchies in Europe fully expected he would establish himself as king. For thousands of years this was always the result of revolutions. General Washington was true to the military commission given him by Congress, and he retired quietly to Mt Vernon. An important result of Washington’s example is that our military has always been subordinate to civilian authority.

Another extraordinary result of Washington’s example is that after serving two terms, and while still very popular, he retired peacefully to Mt Vernon. Washington’s example has blessed our country and has set an example for the rest of the world. In our country presidential power has always transferred peacefully until January 6, 2021 when Washington’s great legacy was tragically broken.

“We believe in being honest…” (Thirteenth Article of Faith) . In his Farewell Address Washington said: "...Of all the dispositions and habits which lead to political prosperity, Religion and morality (honesty and integrity) are indispensable supports. In vain would that man claim the tribute of Patriotism, who should labor to subvert these great pillars of human happiness, these firmest props of the duties of Men and citizens." The “great pillars of human happiness Washington referred to is religion and morality. Religion and morality are Washington’s words for honesty and integrity.

Testimony. For any society to prosper its people must be honest and expect their elected leaders to be honest. "We believe in being honest..." (Thirteenth Article of Faith). Our civilization rests on people being honest. Honesty is an indispensable element in every worthwhile human endeavor. Conversely, dishonesty is the threshold sin and is the root cause of all human failings.

As modern day patriots, who recognize the hand of the Lord in the affairs of men and nations, we must be honest in all that we do. The importance of honesty in our individual lives and in our national character cannot be overstated. It is essential that the people of our country believe in the importance of honesty, and that they support people for public office who are good, wise, and honest. Washington is remembered and honored for his goodness, wisdom, and honesty. As we stay on the covenant path, required by the gospel of Jesus Christ, goodness, wisdom, and honesty will also be our legacy.

Released on March 8th. 2026.