Faith That Built a Nation with Dr. Timothy D. HolderFaith That Built a Nation with Dr. Timothy D. Holder
Crossroads with Jenny Bushkell
Historian Dr Timothy D. Holder talks with Jenny Bushkell about the faith of America’s early presidents, especially George Washington, and how these stories strengthen personal faith today. The conversation blends history, personal testimony and practical encouragement for anyone wanting fresh gratitude and hope.
25:17•17 Jul 2026
Faith, Founding Fathers and Bullet‑Marked Coats: Dr Tim Holder on History and Hope
Episode Overview
- Faith played a significant role in the lives of several early American leaders, including George Washington, who credited God with preserving his life for a purpose.
- Dr Tim Holder explains that Christianity and public calls to prayer and fasting were commonplace among early presidents, challenging the idea of a strict separation from public life.
- Washington’s leadership was unique in that, after winning the war, he chose to give up power rather than seize it, setting a rare example of restraint and humility.
- Stories about presidents such as Washington, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln show how curiosity, self‑discipline and lifelong learning can shape a person’s impact.
- Historical fiction and engaging storytelling can help children and families grow a deeper appreciation for both faith and history.
“I have no explanation for why I was saved when so many other lives were lost all around me, except that God must have some purpose for me that I’ve not yet fulfilled.”
Get ready to be moved by real-life accounts of how faith has shaped history and still speaks into everyday struggles. This conversation brings together radio host Jenny Bushkell and historian Dr Timothy D. Holder to talk about America’s early leaders, their trust in God, and what that might mean for anyone trying to hold on to hope today.
Dr Holder shares how his own story started in a Methodist church pew, where he realised, as a teenager, that “I couldn’t be good enough for heaven. That’s why Jesus had to pay the price for my sins.” From that moment, he sensed a call to “communicate truth” through teaching, writing and public speaking.
History buffs and people who love a good story will enjoy his dramatic account of George Washington’s close calls with death, including the famous battle where Washington ends the day with four bullet holes in his coat and both horses shot from under him.
Washington later wrote that he had “no explanation” for surviving except that “God must have some purpose for me that I’ve not yet fulfilled.” Along the way, the episode touches on how early American presidents openly called the nation to prayer and fasting, why Washington’s leadership was so unusual, and how figures like Abraham Lincoln taught themselves into greatness.
There’s also some lighter fun: Jenny and Tim laugh about Lincoln being in the wrestling hall of fame and Washington being a graceful dancer. Parents and grandparents will pick up ideas for younger readers too, as Dr Holder talks about his middle–grade time‑travel novel set during the siege of Boston, written to help kids enjoy history through story.
At its heart, the episode offers gentle encouragement to look back at God’s faithfulness in order to face today’s challenges with a fuller heart. If you’ve been feeling jaded about faith, country, or your own story, this might give you fresh reasons to be thankful – and curious. What part of your past might God use to shape your next step?
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