Faith, Friendship, and the Apprentice: What Hollywood Producer Mark Burnett Had to Say About Trump

President Donald Trump hailed this year's National Prayer Breakfast as "a testament to the power of faith and is one of the great customs of our nation." 

He made that comment after being introduced by long-time friend Mark Burnett, who served as last year's keynote speaker. 

Burnett and his wife Roma Downey produced the wildly popular "The Bible" television series.  Burnett is also the creator of the reality program "Survivor," and "The Apprentice," which featured Donald Trump and ran for 14 seasons.

Burnett recalled pitching the idea to Trump who had turned down a number of reality show requests before that, but liked Burnett's idea of helping people learn what it takes to make it in business.

The crowd laughed when Burnett recalled making a deal with Trump to do "The Apprentice." He said Trump told him to run it past Trump's agent, who balked at the idea, thought it would never work, and said no, despite learning that Trump already said yes.  Burnett said when Trump got wind of that, Trump told his secretary to get in touch with his agent "and tell him...you're fired."

Burnett said his friendship with Trump is "one of the greatest relationships of my life" and over 14 years "never had a single bad word between us." As the President walked to the podium, the two shook hands and Burnett said, "I love you."

"We've had an amazing life together, the last 14, 15 years.  And an outstanding man, and thank you very much for introducing me.  Appreciate it.  It's a great honor," Trump said at the beginning of his speech of Burnett.  

Trump went on thank the American people for their prayers and encouragement.

"Your faith and prayers have sustained me and inspired me through some very, very tough times," Trump said. "All around America, I have met amazing people whose words of worship and encouragement have been a constant source of strength."

Trump said five words have continued to touch his heart as he has traveled around the country.

Those words, "I am praying for you"-- he said, "have been a constant source of strength" for him and are words that "never, ever fail to touch" his heart.

Click play to Watch President Trump's speech

.

He also took a moment during his address to honor the countless brave men and women who protect us here at home and in distant shores.

"From generation to generation, their vigilance has kept our liberty alive," Trump said. "Our freedom is won by their sacrifice and our security has been earned with their sweat and blood and tears. God has blessed this land to give us such incredible heroes and patriots. They are very, very special and we are going to take care of them."

He said that in the comings days, his administration will come up with a plan to keep the country safe.

"We will develop a system to help ensure that those admitted into our country fully embrace our values of religious and personal liberty," Trump said during his speech.

Faith and trusting in God were key themes during Trump's speech. "As long as we have God, we are never, ever alone," Trump said.

"Whether it's the soldier on the night watch, or the single parent on the night shift, God will always give us solace and strength, and comfort. We need to carry on and to keep carrying on."