“The Conversion of James Murray”
James Murray’s parents had a vision for “the next generation to do something different” and provided as best they could for their four children. James, the oldest, was rebellious and angry, however, and as a preteen, he began to experiment with drugs. Little did he know at the time, that these choices were actually “leading him on a spiritual journey” that would eventually bring him to know Christ.
After graduating from a Christian high school, James went on to secular colleges where he fell even further into substance abuse. He eventually became involved in trafficking narcotics, which was a very lucrative and “successful” business for him. It also seemed to be the easiest way to provide for his girlfriend, her daughter, and their own child.
As often happens, he was eventually arrested. While he was out on bond and awaiting sentencing, he believed he “had nothing to lose and nothing to gain.” This was the lowest point in his life, but that’s when God began dealing with his heart. Growing up in church, he knew the truth of the Bible but had never made it personal. On September 22, 1991, two days before his hearing, he fully turned to God and gave his life to Christ. With this decision, he was inundated with the peace and power of God that helped to stabilize his “thinking, emotions, and decision making.” On that day, James realized that with God’s help, he no longer needed “any substance outside of (himself) to deal with life circumstances,” and he never abused drugs again.
Two days later, he was sentenced to 9 years in prison and charged a $50,000 fine. Immediately upon his incarceration, he began looking for “life-changing activity” inside the jail (prison). He soon met with volunteers who held Bible studies, and PFM was one of their sponsors. James made friends with the PFM volunteers, as well as a local pastor, and together they discipled him and taught him a biblical way of thinking.
About The Pastor
Pastor James Murray
104 Allen Street * Lexington SC 29072
