U.S. Rep. Babin: Learning to Be a Biblically Principled Leader Is Invaluable

For U.S. Congressman Brian Babin, biblically principled leadership begins with remembering whom a leader is called to serve.“We have to remember that we’re called to be servants of the Lord,” Babin says. “Too often, we can become focused on ourselves and our own interests.” Babin’s biblical perspective has shaped his approach to public service and is reinforced each week through the Capitol Ministries House Members Bible Study. Shortly after taking office in 2015, Babin began attending the study and was drawn to its commitment to serious biblical teaching.

That depth particularly resonates with Babin, a student of history with a longtime interest in science and archaeology. He has traveled to the Holy Land several times and enjoys seeing how archaeological discoveries reinforce the historical accuracy of Scripture. “The longer I live, the more I realize that the Bible is not only a book of inspiration, faith, and God’s Word—it’s also a history book,” he says.

But the value of studying Scripture extends beyond knowledge. Babin sees its principles guiding lawmakers’ daily responsibilities, including issues such as work and personal obligation. “We aren’t simply studying Scripture in the abstract,” he explains. “We’re learning biblical principles that can help guide us as we fulfill our responsibilities as public servants.” For Babin, that duty requires leaders to look beyond their own interests. “We need men and women in government who understand biblical principles and recognize that we’re here to serve rather than pursue our own self-interest,” he says.

It also requires looking beyond the present. Babin and his wife, Roxanne, have 17 grandchildren, giving him a deeply personal perspective on the impact today’s decisions can have on those who come after them. “This country is worth working for and preserving,” Babin says. “I want to make sure future generations have the same opportunities we’ve had.” His concern for the next generation gives added weight to his belief that public servants must approach leadership with principles that reach beyond personal interests and the immediate pressures of the moment.

The relationships formed around God’s Word have become another meaningful part of Thursday mornings. Babin has developed close friendships with others in the study and even brings his guitar each week to help lead the members in worship—making what he jokingly calls a “joyful noise.” The fellowship adds a personal dimension to what has become, for Babin, an important source of biblical instruction and encouragement during his years in Congress.

After more than a decade with Capitol Ministries, Babin sums up the value of the House Members Bible Study simply: “Come, listen, and learn how to be a biblically principled leader. It is invaluable.”

For Babin, that is the heart of it: learning from God’s Word, serving others faithfully, and leading with an awareness that the decisions made today will reach well beyond the present generation.