The Louisiana Special Legislative Session ended three weeks ago. It was historic. The pressure was on every legislator in multiple ways. Pressure often creates many opportunities for ministry.
As the Louisiana State Chaplain with the Capitol Commission, I have a MINISTRY OF PRESENCE, a MINISTRY OF PRAYER and a MINISTRY OF PROCLAMATION. I have never had more opportunities. Many Legislators needed someone to talk to and to be prayed for. The conversations were significant about the Kingdom of God coming to bear in their sphere of influence.
I was surprised when I was given the honor of leading the Louisiana Senate in prayer on the final day. Before praying I reminded them of Benjamin Franklin’s words to our Founding Fathers at a critical point in our nation’s formation. He said, “I have lived a long time and I have observed that God governs in the affairs of men. Unless the Lord build the house, they labor in vain who build it. If we do not rely on His aid in this political house, we will be no different than the builds of Babel.” Wise words for 200 plus years ago and for Senators today.
I also reminded them of Psalm 20:7, “Some trust in chariots, some trust in horses but we trust in the name of the Lord our God.” I told them that our God’s name is Jehovah Jireh our Provider, Lord, Master, Savior, Restorer, Redeemer, The Door, The Way, The Truth, Shepherd, Healer, the Death Defier, Giant Defeater, the One who owns the cattle on a thousand hills and the One who put the stars in the sky. Leaders need to trust Him.
Opportunities
Over the last few months, I have had the opportunity to speak to the War College Group, Officers’ Christian Fellowship, Elected Leaders, Business Leaders and Faith Groups with the message, “HOW TO LIVE WITH CONVICTION AND CIVILITY IN AN AGE OF HOSTILITY.” I will be preaching this message at Forcey Bible Church on August 15. It seems to be a very relevant topic, and we have had excellent discussion following the talk. I use Joshua 22 as the foundation for the talk.
Prayer and Praise
- Our new monthly Leader Faith Forum launched with leaders in Jefferson Parish. We are thankful for all the leaders who helped us get this started.
- Pray for the Men’s Retreat I will speak at October 8-10. All men are welcome to attend. Sign up through Forcey Bible Church.
The topic and description is …. REAL MAN WEEKEND: DEFEATING THE GIANTS OF DISCOURAGEMENT AND APATHY….
Our culture is determined to redefine masculinity into something it was never intended to be. The strategy is to discourage, defeat and cause men to quit. Come and discover “THE WAY” of Jesus. Men fully alive in wonder, awe, purpose, action and compassion bring great glory to God. Jesus did not come to hold classes; He came to change men.
- Many people in our circle (and I’m sure yours, too) are facing significant challenges. Let’s stand by each other in these challenging times. If I can pray for you personally, please contact me. It is a joy to be your friend.
Helping Louisiana’s Leaders,
Michael