Deon Joseph's Gift: No It's Not Magic

By: Deon Joseph

This is for my fellow first responders; cops, firefighters and others. It’s been a challenging time for us all. From COVID to riots and protest, I have talked to officers or their family members from all over the country who message me, advising that their hearts are heavy and are completely demoralized. I’ve been going through this with you, on top of backstabbing and slander from people who are too cowardly to say to my face what they spread behind my back.

As a man of faith, allow me to share a part of a prayer I have been praying for the past year that has helped get me through each day.

Every morning, before I leave my home and hit these streets, I anoint my head and stand on my porch (my special prayer place)

I pray to God, and within the prayer I ask the Father the following:

“Lord.  Please make me strong where I’m weak (As strong and confidently I am, in human. Every super man or woman has their kryptonite.)

Give me courage where I would fear (Yes. As powerful and brave as I am, I have fears. I’ve been afraid in the field before. Acknowledging that helps me to push past those fears. Which is what bravery is.)

Heal me where I’m broken in times of self-defense of myself, my partners and citizens (I admit, I’m not the 23-year-old monster who can break down doors with my bare hands, leap over fences and lift two grown men off their feet at the same time to stop them from escaping)

Protect me from my enemies no matter what form they come in (Evil comes in many forms. I’m not psychic. So, yes, I need the Lord to be ahead of me to see ahead, at my side to protect my 3 and 9, and behind me to protect my 6 from things I can’t see)

Let your will be done first and foremost. But if it’s in your will, show favor on me for the things I do that help my fellow man and give you honor and glory. (Self-explanatory)

Please allow me to see hope in a world that seems hopeless (I love it when God shows me signs that he is still with me in times of turmoil.)

Allow me to get home to my loved ones in one piece. But should you not be with me in the field, please allow me to be with you in heaven (I know I have a dangerous job. Even the greatest men and women of God met their demise in unfair ways. But I am comforted in knowing that if I die, I’ll be with him.)

Protect my fellow officers and the people we serve, as well as my family while I’m away.”

I’ve done this without fail, and I’m telling you, it has gotten me through this hell we are all in. My head is held high no matter what is thrown at me.

I’m sharing this with you, because in spite of what we are called by activists, political figures and celebrities, God still loves us, and when you have no one in your corner, he is the best friend to have.

To my LEOS and others out there giving it your all, I’m praying for you all. Don’t lose heart. Even if you don’t believe, just try this for a week.

No, it’s not magic. 

It’s a conversation with our creator. I believe God loves to hear from us.

God bless you all and be safe out there.