June 30, 2017

Share Something U Recently Read.....

From Lessons Learned by Antoine Murphy (author's profile)

Transcription

12:11 PM 3-3-17
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Share Something You Recently Read…

It wasn't something like a book or a magazine, or an our case a memo - that I read on purpose. Nothing that I intentionally sought out with the intent of furthering my intellectual credibility among my peers, staff members included.
Nope. The thing I recently encountered with my mind most accidentally. Oddly, when I needed it the most. It came simply but elegantly packaged and appeared in the least likely of places: the social worker's office. I'm not sure why it was in her office as it seemed to have nothing to do with “social work” as I've come to know it (ie “what do you want? You don't deserve nothing-get outta my office.)
Yet the cup sat minding its own business till I interrupted it. “What's that on ur shirt?”
“Oh this! It said using it’s curled white arm to point to the scarlet block letters that adorned it’s bosom. “Read’em for urself.”
So I mentally digest these three words...ooops I mean four.

I GOT THIS-GOD

While the social worker ran down the amenities of PRC I just stared at her empty cup which was empty of coffee, but full of the creator. I GOT THIS. Humblwed me so in that 12-East office on this last day of the love month. A day when I should’ve been focused on lovin’ God more.

I GOT THIS

Reminded me that I need to trust God more.
Reminded me that I needed to trust God with all my heart-n-soul in that very moment. You see I have a tendency to be self-sufficient. Yes, that building block of American manhood. That red royal stars-n-stripes Blood that keeps me pulling myself up by my bootstraps. This moral compass helped me survive 20 years in prison. This “do-it-yourself” mentality has become my fail safe. But come to find out God views this as PRIDE. A deadly sin no less, as I became accustomed to subconsciously getting God to “follow my lead”. Was one of those times I figured I could impress the social worker with my wisdom, logic ,and plethora of big words she didn't even know I knew, all in an effort to get her to assist me in getting CAZP-n-AODA off my list of needs. Figured that would increase the likelihood of my being paroled in October.

I GOT THIS

Add me realize that I'm too smart for my own good. I say I trust God but I don't always especially when it hurts. Or when I feel things are taking too long.
Case in point. I'm believing God that the meaning of the 20 year prophecy will be fulfilled. Be it my physical release from prison or my going to minimum (which is a release from my perspective) yet despite all of this “faith in God” you can often find me trying to work my own Magic. Why? Cuz I get impatient with God. I want to go home now and all God keep saying is
I GOT THIS

All I can do is joyfully humble myself under his mighty hand and wait :) humble myself and realize that I'm the least worthy of all His blessings and mercy. Genesis 32:10. All I can do is take comfort in those loving and encouraging words of my heavenly Father…...I GOT THIS.

What encouragement---now when I cry “so-n-so” got on my last nerve I hear….I GOT THIS.
When I cry, “But God, I wanna go home.” I hear I GOT THIS.
When I wonder if I can get the miracle of minimum I hear….I GOT THIS.
When I want to perish in the storms of life I hear…...I GOT THIS.
And to all those flipping out and worrying about today or tomorrow I encourage you to hear God (if you believe in Him) say…

I GOT THIS

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Replies (5) Replies feed

Papi Posted 7 years, 5 months ago. ✓ Mailed 7 years, 4 months ago   Favorite
Thanks for writing! I finished the transcription for your post. I have had the same problems with pride in my life. Always thought I had everything on my own. I am so happy to have had the opportunity to transcribe this letter for you. God's blessings! I leave you with my favorite verses:

I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.

Philippians 4:11-13

God bless you and thank you for the connection I have to your writing!

Antoine Murphy Posted 7 years, 4 months ago.   Favorite
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Papi Posted 7 years, 4 months ago. ✓ Mailed 7 years, 3 months ago   Favorite
Thank you for the poem and the kind thoughts. I am so glad that you had a connection with Philippians! And in three instances!!!! God works in His ways and is present in these conversations (Matthew 18:20).

Here are some other passages that have given me peace and understanding.

Matthew 6:22-23 . Just great words on filling yourself with the gospel!

John 12:24 . Just a great reminder that even in our hardest times and darkest hours, eternal life is so much more important.

Romans 5:2-9 . Knowing God loves us, and our suffering is building endurance, character and hope. Keeping in mind that God is a God of the moment (verse 6). He will allow us to struggle so we pray to Him. He becomes a more central focus in our lives.

Romans 8:28
Romans 8:31

And lastly, and I do think I saved the best for last.....1 Corinthians 15:10

But by the grace of God I am what I am, and His grace toward me was not in vain.

Amen.

Prayers for you my brother.

Papi

Antoine Murphy Posted 7 years, 3 months ago.   Favorite
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Antoine Murphy Posted 7 years, 3 months ago.   Favorite
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