PAST QUESTION : PRESENT ANSWER

I am on the road for the next few days with speaking engagements, so I don’t have the time to write a blog.  However,  I decided to post a blog which I wrote four months after being incarcerated in 2010. It’s interesting to see the purpose that burned in my heart being fulfilled today. (THY WILL BE DONE--May 25, 2010)I received a letter the other day that really got me thinking. It’s one of those questions that a lot of people probably want to ask an inmate who states that prison has changed them.  The person asked, “What steps do you plan to take once you’re released in order to stay at peace?  In your journal entries, you often reference how you used to act in the ‘real world’ compared to how you act in an environment where you are physically separated from some of those distractions/pulls. Do you expect your lifestyle to change completely or just in specific areas?”I really pondered those questions before I responded because it’s hard to know where I will be mentally, physically, and spiritually years from now.  I responded, “I know this peace I feel daily is real.  I now have a new understanding about life and purpose.  Some think that it’s easier for me since I am confined from the hustle and bustle of the ‘real world.’ Unfortunately, I am not separated from the  “worldly view.”  I’m here with murderers, rapists, gang members, and child molesters.  I am tempted every day by evil and the tests are continuous. My patience is pushed to the limits, my anger tried continually, my character is tested, and my kindness is exploited.”Every enticement you could think of exists here, yet I have trained myself and my thinking to go by God’s timing and purpose—not my own anymore. I stumble daily, but the Lord always takes me back. I’m trying to be like Jesus acting with compassion and kindness.  My new purpose brings me peace;  and I know through Christ, I will have a meaningful purpose in the future.I think I will be able to keep that mindset when I am released because I have seen this side of the wall and I believe it doesn’t matter where we are or what is around us. It is our mindset and heart that leads us to be Christ-like and not an environment or confinement.I think when something is taken away, like freedom, we then begin to realize what truly matters.  I found this peace and purpose because I finally surrendered to God.  I intend to take this mentality with me when I am released.  I believe my lifestyle will change because I will no longer be living for ‘self.’ Everything I do will be with purpose in mind.  It’s going to be hard, but with God and the help of His Holy Spirit—our plans will be achieved.  I am relying on God to set up my future and I am sure He is up for the challenge.