Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin gives faith-driven message at Liberty University

Governor of Virginia Glenn Youngkin visited Liberty University’s Convocation on Friday morning to deliver a message about his personal faith journey and how his daily walk with the Lord informs his role as a public servant.

Youngkin’s visit was part of the Helms School of Government’s previously scheduled public policy conference, which began on Thursday and concludes on Saturday.

Liberty President Jerry Prevo welcomed Youngkin to the stage, receiving applause from students when he introduced the governor as someone who “has not hidden that it is his faith that keeps him grounded and motivates him to serve.”

“What an honor to speak, not just at Liberty University but at Liberty University Convocation,” Youngkin told the arena full of about 10,000 students. “This is special. I hope all of you understand how special this is to come together — in faith — at your university, to share in the brotherhood of Christ together. This is special.”

His message recounted his journey to becoming governor, the importance of his prayer life, and the many issues that are causing divisiveness in our country today and how to love without compromising convictions.

Now, just over two months into his role as Virginia’s 74th governor, he said the journey has been “a test of perseverance, an eye-opening insight into the soul of Virginia, the most amazing job interview you could possibly imagine.”

“Above and beyond all those things that are quite earthly, this campaign in the first 10 weeks of serving Virginians has done one most important thing: It has been an absolute affirmation of my faith,” he said.

While many politicians run for election because people around them encourage it, Youngkin said his campaign began in his prayer closet. He sensed the Lord calling him to consider running for governor, and he received encouragement from his wife to follow that leading.

“I’ve never believed that prayer is about moving God to where I am but a process of God moving us to where He is,” he said.

Throughout this time, Psalm 121, “Our help comes from the Lord” kept coming to mind.

“I asked Him every day for help, and I continue to ask Him every day for help,” he said.

He reminded Liberty’s student body to always rely on the Lord’s leading.

“I have a message of infinite hope in that your life is worth an infinite amount to Him,” he said. “So I’ll ask you, where does your help come from? And I’ll give you the answer: it comes from the Lord.”

While hitting on topics such as parent’s rights in their children’s education and a healthy approach to race relations that doesn’t leave certain groups bearing the sins of the past, Youngkin said that while being loving Christians, we must share our political arguments well.

“It’s at this divisive time in history that we must always remember that it’s not the volume of your voice but the strength of your argument that matters.”

He encouraged students to consider careers in public service. “Christians need to serve on the front lines,” he said.

He pointed out that Liberty graduates are currently holding office, working in state government, and even working alongside him on his staff.

“The reputation and impact of Liberty University extends far beyond the Blue Ridge Mountains,” he said.

He told the students that whatever field they enter, they can be “the greatest ambassadors around the world for Liberty” and that he’s confident Liberty graduates are making a significant impact in their communities.

“The students and graduates of Liberty University are indeed a force for good.”

Youngkin fervently prayed over the students, asking God to direct their steps and light their paths so that they would find clarity in following His leading. He was then joined on stage by School of Government Dean Robert Hurt for a brief discussion. Hurt served in the U.S. House of Representatives, representing Virginia’s Fifth District, from 2011–2017.

Campus Pastor Jonathan Falwell prayed over Youngkin, asking the Lord to protect him and use him for the Kingdom wherever he goes while standing for truth.

This is the second year the Helms School has hosted the public policy conference. More than 100 students, faculty, and friends of Liberty are presenting research on legal and regulatory issues, upholding liberty and justice, and other related topics. Panels include members of the Family Research Council, Department of Defense, Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission, Heritage Leadership Foundation, and more.