“When we see isolated incidents, we should not judge the whole world. When we see racism and hatred, those things are not of God but the devil.”

After just having celebrated MLK Day, we talk on the podcast this week to an African-American sheriff in Georgia about the late Dr. King, plus how he’s personally dealt with racism, being a bold Christian who practices his faith daily, handling negative views of law enforcement, and more.

(5:06) We start our chat with Muscogee County Sheriff Greg Countryman (in Columbus GA) about looking at increased violence – record number of homicides – from a spiritual perspective, with the message being to humble ourselves and stop moving away from God. This sheriff, who’s also an ordained minister, talks about prayer and fasting being specific and intentional.

As we honor Dr. Martin Luther King Junior (11:29), our guest on the pod talks about the lessons taken from the courageous civil rights icon, who used scripture with all he did. (13:22) As a black sheriff, he also has a lot to say about racism, and how isolated incidents create teachable moments. He’s dealt with racial issues too, as a Plains GA native, but wants to forgive like Jesus.

With numerous faith-related college degrees, (16:05) how did he get into law enforcement? The dream started for him in the 5th grade. Sheriff Countryman also opens up about overcoming a bad stutter and learning disability, which is partly why he wants to be a voice for the voiceless and why he stays so close to God who brought him this far.

(19:27) With more of an anti-police mindset nowadays, this 31-year law enforcement veteran from GA talks about inaction creating problems, building trust back, and special training. Sheriff Countryman also tells the story about being shot at, but why he didn’t fire back.

(29:14) I asked this unabashed Jesus follower how others can also be bold Christians and share their faith. Part of it is who your friends are. At his sheriff’s office, he’s always saying, “The Lord is with us.” He’s also proud to have brought up 3 sons in the faith. (36:45) So, how do criminals react to his approach and faith? Also, why did he have to remove Bibles from the jail he’s in charge of?

We talk some about (41:29) the impact of COVID-19 on law enforcement, views of death and faith. (46:01) Sheriff Countryman closes us in prayer. (49:04) In the final segments, the “Food for Thought” is about law enforcement and faith, while we get some “Parting Gift” wisdom from MLK.

Thanks for listening! And tell your friends about the #RunTheRace podcast. Subscribe to it! For more info, go to www.wtvm.com/podcast/.