 On September 7, 1774, the Continental Congress of the United States officially met for the first time, opening with prayer and the reading of Psalm 35, which starts with, Contend, Lord, with those who contend with me. Fight against those who fight against me. Patriot leaders were greatly influenced and strengthened by the spread of the Great Awakening across the colonies. John Adams said that the American Revolution was preceded a generation or so by the spiritual revival in the hearts and minds of the people.