In a recent speech at the Texas policy summit, Lt. Gov Dan Patrick credited his state’s success to their adherence to biblical values. He described the state legislature as ‘Christ-centered.’ He said that the state’s growing population was a sign of success. While he acknowledged that all Texans are not Christian, he says that Christian values should lead the state.
“We have some good House members here, we have great senators here, we are a Christ-centered Senate,” Patrick said. “I want you to know that we are a Christ-centered Senate. I know we have four senators here — stand up,” he began. ” Senator [Brian] Birdwell, Senator [Angela] Paxton, Senator [Charles] Perry, Senator [Kevin] Sparks, where are you? These four people represent 20 Republicans who put Christ first in all they do.”
“We have many Christ-filled people in the Texas House. I would say that Texas, which I’m proud of, is probably the most Christ-centered legislature in the country, and that’s why people keep moving here — a thousand people a day,” he added. “They see our values, they see it’s an opportunity to come here and start a business and have a good job and live the American dream.”
“We’ve added 11 million since 2000,” he continued. “We’ve gone from 19 million to 30 million, and the projection is we are going to have another 15 million in another 20 years,” the Lt. Gov stated. “I gave a short prayer at the prayer breakfast two days ago, and I said, if you put Jesus first, you can’t help but do the best for the people.”
“If you listen to a lobbyist, the last one you better talk to is Him. When you’ve got a tough vote to cast, where’s He?” Patrick has said that his faith is central to his politics. He has often cited the bible when advocating for Christian policies such as supporting Pro-life legislation and placing, “In God We Trust” in the State Senate despite secular opposition.
“I believe we’re a nation of Godly people and Godly people need to pray,” Patrick said in his keynote address. “2 Chronicles 7:14, everyone should read tonight. Go to the middle of the Bible, turn right, 2 Chronicles 7:14. Christians have to pray for God to heal our land and we have to take a stand. God still has His eye on this country.”
The verse he referenced, 2 Chronicles 7:14, contains a promise from God. In this passage, God promises to bless nations that ask for forgiveness. “If my people who are called by my name will get down and kneel and pray and turn their face to me and ask forgiveness for their wicked ways and to heal their nation, I will hear them from Heaven, and I will forgive them, and I will heal their land.”
He added that Christians “need to take hold of our country, and we do that through prayer,” he said. “You cannot change the culture of a country without changing the character of the people, and you can not change character without changing a heart and you can’t do that without turning to God.” Patrick’s speech was received well, and the crowd erupted in applause.