WASHINGTON D.C. May 17, 2026 – President Donald J. Trump delivered a pre-recorded reading of 2 Chronicles 7:11-22 from the Oval Office, calling the nation to humility, prayer, and repentance as part of the “America Reads the Bible” initiative.
In the video, shared widely on social media on May 17, 2026, Trump sits at the presidential desk with American flags in the background as he reads the full passage from the Old Testament. The text recounts God’s response to Solomon after the dedication of the Temple, promising to hear from heaven, forgive sin, and heal the land if His people humble themselves, pray, seek His face, and turn from wicked ways (verse 14).
The event, a weeklong Bible-reading marathon tied to America’s upcoming 250th anniversary in 2026, featured nearly 500 participants reading from Genesis to Revelation, many at the Museum of the Bible in Washington, D.C. Organizers selected the passage for Trump due to its longstanding use in American calls for national renewal and prayer during times of hardship.
“If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.” — 2 Chronicles 7:14
Supporters praised the reading as a powerful reminder of the nation’s spiritual heritage and a call for revival. Many viewed it as leadership in “spiritual warfare” and a rededication to God, echoing the faith of America’s founders.
Critics raised concerns about church-state separation, with some calling the act inappropriate for a public official or questioning its sincerity. Others noted the passage’s warnings about turning away from God alongside its promises of healing.
The full video, originally from April 21, 2026, and streamed via platforms like Pure Flix, has garnered strong engagement across social media, with thousands of likes, reposts, and comments reflecting deep divisions and devotion.
As the U.S. approaches its semiquincentennial, the event underscores ongoing debates about faith’s role in public life and national identity. Organizers described it as a “sacred opportunity to call our nation back to its spiritual foundation.”
For the complete passage and video, view the original post from @Freedom250 or the official recording on YouTube.
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