Holding Fast to God’s Word in D.C.: A Conversation with Senator Steve Daines
Interview with U.S. Senator Steve Daines (R‑Montana)
Each week, elected officials from both sides of the aisle gather in the heart of Washington, D.C. to study God’s Word together. We recently interviewed Senator Steve Daines of Montana to hear how this Bible study is shaping his faith, leadership, and service in Congress.
How has attending the Bible study impacted your personal faith journey or help you apply biblical principles as you carry out your role as a public servant?
Senator Daines: I think one of the important impacts is keeping us accountable by being in the Word of God on a weekly basis in the midst of the chaos of Washington, D.C. You know, we need frequent reminders, and in this case, it’s a weekly reminder, that God is God, and we are not. And it’s just a fundamental principle. Think about the Lord’s Prayer—it begins with “Our Father who art in Heaven,” and it starts that way for a reason. It’s just reestablishing the truth that God is God, He is in control, and we are not. That is one very important principle that we need to be applying daily in our lives here in Washington.
What sets this study apart from others that you’ve participated in in the past?
Senator Daines: Well, it’s meat. And I think the doctrinal depth of the study and pushing us to exercise our brain muscles is very, very important as we seek to love the Lord with all of our mind. It’s really developing our minds—the minds that God gave us—and that’s something Ralph challenges us in. It’s about becoming better students of the Word. And in doing so, that understanding makes us better at applying it—we’re applying the truth.
Why do you believe this ministry is especially needed today in Congress?
Senator Daines: Think about the myriad of major decisions that we make in Washington and how we need God’s wisdom more than ever before, because the decisions that are made here not only affect the country but have effects on the entire world. In dealing with that, we’ve got to have God’s wisdom.
What would you say, Senator, to a colleague who might be a little bit hesitant about coming with you or joining the study?
Senator Daines: Well, first, I’d say it’s a very friendly group. It’s a humble group. We’ve had a number of members over the years who have never, ever even studied the Bible before. So, whether you come as a relative novice or somebody who would be skiing the black diamond runs as an expert, there’s something there for everybody. I’ve seen members who have never ever studied the Bible. This is their first experience being in a Bible study, and they’ve just flourished in doing so.
If you could sum up the study in a sentence or two or three, what would it be?
Senator Daines: One word would be effective. Another—if you’re allowed to go more than one word—I think it’s a significant return on investment.
Another thing: we are just thankful for Ralph and Danielle and the sacrifice they make in commuting back and forth from the West Coast to Washington D.C. every week to teach us. We are grateful for their service and sacrifice.