Local Prosecutor Embraces a Life of Service​

By MORGAN STANDIFER
Baptist Progress Team Lead

Retired DA Byrd speaking at his retirement reception

DA Byrd questioning a witness in court

This year, our country celebrates 250 years since the Founding Fathers signed a document that changed the course of history.
 
In the years to come they would create, update and establish a new type of government. One that would be in the best interest for the people in which it governs.
 
Not even 100 years after its establishment did we find ourselves facing the possible end of this new government. While standing on a battlefield, President Abraham Lincoln coined the phrase, “...government of the people, by the people, for the people…”. With this statement he urged his generation to remember the uniqueness of how our government is structured. A government run by its citizens, who were placed into office by its citizens for the purpose of being a voice for its citizens.
 
That was a call that Billy Byrd answered when he decided to retire as Criminal District Attorney for Upshur County to run for the office of 115th District Court Judge. Spurred by a desire to help clean the streets of unafraid criminals, Byrd began his career serving Upshur County in 2006 as its elected criminal district attorney. For 24 years, as a prosecutor he became the voice for those who had none. Byrd stated that, “God trained and provided me with a skill set as an orator with determination to see that evil and crime was punished appropriately.”
 
However, that was not the only call upon Byrd’s life. In January of 2019 he answered God’s call to pastor Oak Hill Missionary Baptist Church in Bettie, where he is currently pastoring.
 
Juggling both jobs and responsibilities there are unique challenges that he faces. Late nights walking through major crime scenes, seeing the victims of these crimes, talking with local officers, etc. Truly seeing the evil that this world has to offer. Only then to turn around moments later, switch gears and preach God’s word. Even then Byrd believes that God has placed him in both positions to explain the story of the gospel. He explained, “I believe God called me and uses these experiences to truly explain how real sin is, how broken this world is, how many are lost without a saving relationship with Jesus Christ.”
 
Though Byrd chose a career devoted to serving others, believers do not have to be pastors or lawyers to be a voice for their communities. One of the great blessings of our country is that every citizen has the opportunity and the responsibility to be involved in local government and to make a difference.

DA Byrd hard at work

DA Byrd alongside his wife

When asked about the importance of Christian involvement in one’s local government, Byrd explained that, “I believe God makes clear Christians should not only pray for leaders, vote in elections, but also seek government offices. Elected officials are to be accountable to God and under His ultimate authority and Christians are called to obey the law (1 Peter 2:13). That is how God designed humanity. But, public officials are not to act for their own personal gain but as God’s servants “to do good”. (Romans 13:4). I have the unique opportunity to maintain the welfare of people, secure interests of my community and promote public good as God’s servant. A Christian will understand this, and a non-believer will struggle to understand what is stated above. So, I absolutely believe we need more Christians seeking office to serve their fellow man but also serve as God’s servant to do good and restrain evil in all levels and capacities of government.”
 
Some may choose to run for an office, school board, mayor, councilman or judge. You can be that voice in your community in that way. However, for most of us that thought may not ever cross our minds. There is still an importance for our involvement. It is just as important to research, study, pray and vote in all of your elections. Not one is too small.
 
1 Timothy 2:1-2 says, “First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way.” (ESV) As believers we are encouraged to pray for our leaders. Be specific! Pray for wisdom, strength, safety and endurance. Lift up their families. Pray that God would continue to raise up servant leaders who are committed to serving their local government.
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With no opponent to run against this fall, Byrd is set to be sworn in as District Judge on January 1, 2027. Please be in prayer for Billy Byrd during this transition but also as he helps lead Upshur County.
 
Byrd’s actions remind us why it is important for Christians to serve in local government and to support leaders who are willing to stand for what is right. The people of Upshur County elected him as their former district attorney to represent them and to be a voice for justice. His example also reflects Lincoln’s reminder that good government depends on citizens who are willing to serve. As Christians, we should be willing to answer that same call whether by serving our communities or by voting for leaders who will stand for good and faithfully fulfill their responsibilities.

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