Joe Fanning

My parents were dedicated Christians and had a tremendous positive impact on my life. When I was 12, I committed my life to Christ and was baptized. I was exposed to good Bible teaching and I studied the Bible myself to learn all I could about God.

Everything was great until after I was married and became focused on my career. Although we were active in church, I neglected my personal Bible study and prayer – and my relationship with Jesus suffered.

Then my wife and I started having problems. Our relationship gradually deteriorated and after our kids were grown and married, she demanded a divorce.

I was devastated. I felt guilty, like I had let God down.

To get a fresh start I moved to Great Falls and got involved in a small Baptist church. It took time, but I started to heal and grow closer to God. I learned how to pray again. I also learned how to trust God and stop acting like I was in control of everything. Jesus forgave me and I felt His peace.

I ended up in Rock Hill and became active in the singles group at First Baptist Church. I had decided I was not going to date – instead, I was going to wait on God to bring the right person into my life. After about two years, I met Donna and was interested in getting to know her. I was patient and prayed about it for several months. Eventually we started dating and now she is my wife. God has given us a beautiful life together and I am grateful for His blessings.

My desire is to serve Jesus and never again neglect my relationship with Him. I learned the hard way that His way is the best way.

Joe Fanning