By Leigh Pritchett
Correspondent, The Alabama Baptist
Jessie Garrison, 79, of Pell City has spent 44 years helping children and teens fill their hearts and minds with God’s word. She has coached many in Bible drill and has seen several finish in the top five in the state competition. The 2019–2020 Bible drill season will be her last.
Ministry: Long-time Bible drill coach, Operation Christmas Child supporter and missions volunteer
Church name: New Hope Baptist Church, Pell City, in St. Clair Baptist Association
Life verse: “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are called according to His purpose.” (Rom. 8:28)
Q: Who was or is one of the most influential people in your faith life? Why?
A: The most influential person in my life was Lester Bryant. He took me under his wing. He was discipleship training director at St. Clair Baptist Association. He saw my love of Bible drill and discipleship. He wrote me a letter on his death bed and wanted me to come and talk to him. He wanted me to take over discipleship. I told him I could not do what he had done, and he said, “I know God has a purpose for you. God will equip you all the way.”
Q: What has God been teaching you lately?
A: One of my recent devotions was Psalm 118:24: “This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.” (The devotional) suggested I say that verse three times every morning. He is encouraging me to pray more, worry less. It has been a hard choice … to realize that maybe it’s time to be a prayer warrior for Bible drill next year (instead of a coach).
Q: Have you ever read a book or heard a song that changed the way you think about God and faith? What was it and what did you learn from it?
A: The book that stands out to me is “Survival Kit for New Christians.” This book came out when I was in my 40s. It taught about the indwelling Holy Spirit. I’m not alone; He has a purpose for me. The Holy Spirit never leaves me, although sometimes I have not let Him work in me. He never leaves me, and He never will.
Share with others: