Worried About Faith in Texas Schools? How New Laws Are Restoring Biblical Hope

In a world where values seem to shift like sand, holding fast to faith, family, and freedom can feel like a battle. Have you ever wondered how to stand firm in your beliefs while navigating cultural changes? Or perhaps you’re searching for ways to instill biblical principles in the next generation amidst a society that often pushes back? In a recent episode of Backstage with Randy Phillips, Jonathan Saenz, president of Texas Values, shares an inspiring conversation about defending faith-based principles in Texas and beyond. His insights offer hope and practical wisdom for anyone seeking to live out their faith boldly. Let’s dive into the key takeaways from this uplifting podcast episode and explore how you can find strength in standing for what’s right. 

Texas Values, as Jonathan Saenz explains, is a nonprofit rooted in the principles of faith, family, and freedom. These aren’t just buzzwords—they’re the bedrock of a movement to preserve Judeo-Christian values in Texas. Whether you’re a parent worried about what your kids are learning in school or a believer seeking to make a difference, this episode offers a roadmap for standing firm. Saenz’s stories, from defending pastors in Houston to passing landmark laws, show how ordinary people can have an extraordinary impact when guided by faith.

The Bible reminds us in Ephesians 6:13 to “put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground.” Saenz’s work with Texas Values embodies this call. He shares a powerful story about Houston’s 2015 ordinance, where the mayor demanded pastors submit their sermons for review—a clear overreach of government power. Pastors, supported by Texas Values, stood firm, refusing to comply. The result? A city-wide vote rejected the ordinance 61-39, proving that faith-filled courage can move mountains.
This story hits home for anyone asking, “How can I stand up for my beliefs without fear?” Saenz emphasizes that standing firm doesn’t mean being confrontational—it’s about respectfully defending what’s right, trusting God’s guidance, and uniting with others who share your values.

One of the episode’s most exciting discussions centers on Texas’s new law requiring the Ten Commandments in public school classrooms. For parents wondering “how to instill biblical values in kids”, this law is a game-changer. Saenz explains that the Ten Commandments aren’t just religious rules—they’re a historical cornerstone of American law and culture, influencing the Constitution and Declaration of Independence.

• Why It Matters: Displaying the Ten Commandments reminds students of timeless moral principles, like “You shall not steal” or “Honor your father and mother,” without requiring belief.
• For Atheist Families: Saenz addresses concerns from nonbelievers, noting that the law respects all perspectives. It’s about historical context, not indoctrination, offering a learning opportunity for everyone.
• Impact: With potentially 300,000 classrooms displaying these posters, Texas is boldly reclaiming its heritage, encouraging kids to reflect on values that build strong communities.

This initiative answers the question, “How can schools teach moral values?” It’s a step toward creating environments where kids can thrive morally and academically.

Another landmark achievement Saenz discusses is Texas’s new school choice program, set to launch next year. For parents asking, “How can I ensure my child’s education aligns with my faith?”, this program offers freedom. It allows parents to direct state education funds to private or religious schools, empowering them to choose environments that reflect their values.

• Key Benefits:
  • Parents can select schools that prioritize faith and academics over political ideologies.
  • Rural communities, often wary of losing public school funding, won’t see closures—growth in student populations ensures schools stay robust.
  • Up to 100,000 students can benefit initially, a small but significant step toward educational freedom.

Saenz’s insight here is a beacon for parents feeling trapped by underperforming schools or curricula that clash with their beliefs. It’s a reminder of Proverbs 22:6: “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.”

For advocates wondering “how to defend religious freedom in today’s world”, Saenz’s work offers a blueprint. He shares how Texas Values navigates the “pit” of the Texas legislature, advocating for laws like the Merry Christmas Act. This 2013 law, which Saenz helped craft, protects schools’ rights to celebrate Christmas without fear of lawsuits—think red and green plates, manger scenes, and “Merry Christmas” greetings.
This story resonates with anyone who’s faced pushback for expressing their faith publicly. It’s a reminder that faith can shape policy when believers engage respectfully and strategically, as 1 Peter 3:15 urges: “Always be prepared to give an answer… with gentleness and respect.”

Saenz’s optimism about young Christians is infectious. He sees a generation hungry to lead, inspired by recent victories like the overturning of Roe v. Wade. For young believers asking, “How can I make a difference for my faith?”, Saenz’s message is clear: your voice matters, and God is raising up leaders for such a time as this.
He shares a personal story about his son, now in college, finding his own voice. This resonates with young Christians seeking purpose, reminding them that faith equips them to face challenges with courage and conviction.

Feeling overwhelmed by cultural shifts? Here are three steps inspired by the podcast to renew your hope:

1. Pray for Wisdom: Like Saenz, who prays for guidance in his advocacy, seek God’s direction in your decisions (James 1:5).
2. Engage Your Community: Whether it’s attending school board meetings or supporting faith-based laws, your involvement matters.
3. Share Your Story: Use your voice, like Saenz does on his podcast, to inspire others with God’s faithfulness.

Jonathan Saenz’s conversation with Randy Phillips is a powerful reminder that faith, family, and freedom are worth fighting for. From the Ten Commandments in classrooms to school choice and protecting religious liberty, Texas Values is lighting a path for believers to stand firm with hope and joy. This episode isn’t just a discussion—it’s a call to action for parents, advocates, and young Christians to live out their faith boldly.
Want to dive deeper into these inspiring stories and practical insights? Watch or listen to the full Backstage with Randy Phillips episode. You’ll be encouraged by Saenz’s passion and leave with renewed faith to face the challenges of today’s world. Don’t miss it—your heart will be uplifted!