How we cite our quotes: (Paragraph.Sentence)
Quote #1
At these moments, America has carried on not simply because of the skill or vision of those in high office, but because we, the people, have remained faithful to the ideals of our forebears and true to our founding documents. (3.4)
Obama's idea of faith goes beyond religion. In this speech, faith includes trusting in America's oldest political institutions. You could say the speech strikes a balance between secular "faith" and religious faith.
Quote #2
The question we ask today is not whether our government is too big or too small, but whether it works—whether it helps families find jobs at a decent wage, care they can afford, a retirement that is dignified. (14.1)
At a time when Americans were doubting the government (Congress and the outgoing president had abysmally low approval ratings), Obama challenges Americans to believe in the ability of the government to do good, regardless of its size. Since many Americans felt like the system was broken, this was an important message to drive home. Obama believes in the system's potential to help the American people.
Quote #3
For as much as government can do, and must do, it is ultimately the faith and determination of the American people upon which this nation relies. (26.3)
Might this be a sort of shout-out to the conservative ideals of self-reliance and individual determination? Either way, Obama suggests that the government definitely needs to work, but it definitely can't work without Americans' faith and grit. Kind of like Oreos and a glass of milk: you can't have one without the other.