| He has shown you, O man, what is good; And what does the Lord require of you But to do justly, To love mercy, And to walk humbly with your God? – Micah 6:8 (NKJV) |
The Call to Self-Governance
On January 14, 2025, I had the incredible honor of delivering the keynote address at the Oregon State Legislature Prayer Breakfast. It was a momentous occasion to speak on the theme of self-governance, a principle that lies at the heart of leadership, government, and personal accountability. Drawing from Scripture, history, and my own journey, I sought to inspire a call to courageous, principled governance rooted in faith, justice, and humility.
Government: A Sacred Trust
I began by referencing the Apostle Paul’s teaching in Romans, reminding those present that all governing authorities are ordained by God. Addressing the elected officials, I emphasized their divine appointment: “Whether we like you or not, whether you know Him or not, God has placed you here for this season. You have been entrusted with a sacred responsibility.”
This acknowledgment placed the concept of self-governance within the framework of accountability—not just to voters, but ultimately to God.
The Four Dimensions of Self-Governance
I then shared my understanding of self-governance through four distinct perspectives that have shaped my life:
- Monarchical Governance
As the grandson of a king in Cameroon, I grew up observing a governance system where authority was concentrated in a single sovereign. While this model provided order, it lacked inclusivity, as the people were merely subjects with little voice in their governance. - Democratic Governance
My mother’s success as a politician in Cameroon exposed me to democracy’s power. In this system, leaders are chosen by the people and held accountable to them. It fosters shared responsibility and empowerment, ensuring governance serves the collective good. - Corporate Governance
As a businessman, I have experienced self-governance through the trust of shareholders and customers. “My clients vote by doing business with me,” I explained, highlighting the necessity of integrity and stewardship in leadership. - Spiritual Governance
Finally, as a preacher, I see self-governance in the personal choice to submit to God’s will. “True self-governance begins with willingly aligning ourselves to God’s Word and holding ourselves accountable to His purpose.”
The Four Purposes of Government
- To Provide Order
I reminded the leaders that their role is not to seek popularity but to ensure structure and discipline, even when it is unpopular. “Your job is to keep us in order, whether we like it or not.” - To Protect the Innocent
Highlighting the government’s role as a defender of the vulnerable, I urged legislators to consider those without a voice, praying for wisdom in decision-making, especially for those impacted by policies but absent from the decision-making table. - To Punish the Guilty
I shared a deeply personal story about my daughter, illustrating how accountability and consequences can lead to transformation. “Without consequences, behavior does not change. True love does not ignore wrongdoing; it seeks to correct it.” - To Facilitate God’s Will in the Public Square
I challenged leaders to align their decisions with God’s will—or, for those who do not share my faith, with goodwill for all. Leadership is ultimately accountable to a higher authority. I urged officials to ask themselves, “Is this decision facilitating God’s will?”
The Trailblazer Spirit
I celebrated Oregon’s pioneering legacy, calling on the state to embrace its identity as a trailblazer for justice, unity, and bipartisan cooperation. “Oregon is at its best when it leads,” I declared, inspiring leaders to forge a path of righteousness and reconciliation.
I encouraged officials to reject the divisive politics of the day and instead chart a new course of kindness and collaboration, embodying the best of Oregon’s spirit.
A Prayerful Charge
Concluding my address, I turned to the words of the prophet Micah:
“He has shown you, O man, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.” (Micah 6:8)
I prayed for the strength, wisdom, and humility of Oregon’s leaders, reminding them that their work carries eternal significance. I affirmed their calling to govern with love and accountability, ensuring a legacy of justice and righteousness.
A Call to Action
My message at the prayer breakfast was a clarion call to embrace self-governance as both a personal and collective responsibility. Effective governance begins with individual accountability and is sustained by a commitment to God’s principles.
As Oregon continues to navigate its challenges, I pray that my vision of self-governance serves as a guidepost for leaders and citizens alike, calling everyone to work together for a flourishing state and nation. My final words echoed with hope: “Let us blaze a new trail of unity, kindness, and love, showing the nation that the pioneers are back.”
God bless Oregon. God bless our leaders.
Listen to the LIVE audio of my speech word-for-word:
Serving with Love,
Patrice Tsague, Chief Servant Office