Joe Watkins has been a Bible study teacher for 36 years. He is a real estate broker who owns his own firm in Montgomery. He has been in real estate for 45 years.
Ministry description: Bible study teacher, deacon, chairman of the New Member Committee
Church name: First Baptist Church, Montgomery, in Montgomery Baptist Association
Life verse: “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” (Josh. 1:9)
Q: Describe where you focus your greatest ministry efforts.
A: I teach a seasoned adult Bible study class at First Baptist Church, Montgomery, and serve as an active deacon working with our New Member Committee. I pray these two ministries make a difference in those lives I touch for Jesus.
Q: Who was or is one of the most influential people in your faith life? Why?
A: My great-grandmother. My mom and dad separated when I was 5 years old. Me and my younger brother were left with my great-grandmother. She was a nurturing, loving, kind and gentle-spirited person. She taught us so many lessons on life and how to love, respect and treat all people.
Q: Tell about a “turning point” in your life and how God was involved.
A: At the age of 12, I was invited to a church event where I was told I could have all the hot dogs, potato chips and Coke I could eat. Sounded like a great idea and I went. Not only did I get a tummy full of hot dogs, Cokes and potato chips, I came home with a heart full of Jesus.
Q: What has God been teaching you lately?
A: To love Him with all my heart, soul and mind, to have unwavering faith, to obey His words and to glorify His name in all things.
Q: If there was one thing you could tell your younger self about faith, what would it be?
A: God has a plan and a purpose for everybody He breathes life into. Believe and trust in the Lord, work hard and take pride in all you do.
Q: Have you ever read a book or heard a song that changed the way you think about God and faith?
A: “I Love to Tell the Story” (a hymn) and Rick Warren’s book “The Purpose Driven Life.”
Q: What did you learn from it?
A: How to tell my story of Jesus and His love and realizing it is not about me; it’s about what God can do through me for others.
Q: Does your church have any special traditions that mean a lot to you?
A: Yes. The Living Christmas Tree and our deacon In Home Communion Outreach Ministry. I love senior adults; I was raised by one.
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