Anita Simmons

Growing up, my mom and I were active in our church. I even joined the church and was baptized with friends.

But when I was fifteen God spoke to my heart and told me I had not accepted Him as Lord and Savior. On a Sunday morning, I sat in a Bible study and listened to a missionary share about the good news of Jesus Christ. I knew in my heart that God was calling me to commit my life to Him. After I did, I felt a great sense of relief. I felt the call to serve Christ but instead honored my mother's wishes and married early. I have always attended church but always felt there was more. After too many years of hurting myself and others and two failed marriages, in May 2011 I came back to First Baptist Church and rededicated my life to Christ 100% and He filled my heart with such joy.

I cannot say enough about my relationship with Jesus. When I'm down and feeling defeated, I just close my eyes for a moment and think of all my blessings, my husband, my children and grandchildren, my friends but most of all the fact that Jesus has always been there, watching over me and protecting me. He forgave me for all of my sins. I am able to tell others that yes, I have sinned by my Father in Heaven forgave me and He never reminds me of them. Instead He holds me and carries me when I am tired and He alone is who I truly love and trust with everything.

Anita Simmons