How On Earth Did I Get Here?: Defining Moments & Divine Appointments

When James H. Willis III was only fifteen years old, family circumstances left him without the only home he had ever known. He was on his own, and he wasn’t sure what to do—he just knew he had to survive.

The young teen spent part of his adolescence living in a tree in the woods. Yet Willis never gave up hope. He spent every day going to school and working. Despite not having a support system, Willis persevered. His strong spirit and unwillingness to give up helped him get through the next eight years of his life, but that wasn’t enough. There was still something missing from his soul.

At the age of twenty-three, Willis had another important and powerful transformation. It was this moment that completely changed his life. He learned to listen to the Lord’s voice and trust that God loved him and had a plan for him. Willis made the choice to follow God on his spiritual journey forward, and it was the best decision he ever made.

As Willis recounts this amazing moment in his life, he gives you insight and advice you can take on your own spiritual journey and as you work through your own problems. His “spiritual growth steps” will help you form a deeper and stronger relationship with God!

James H. Willis III received his bachelor's degree in theology from the Baptist Bible College in Springfield, Missouri. Willis has also served as an associate pastor and has been on thirty international mission trips.

He worked for twelve years in men's clothing before going into the business of retirement planning. Willis started his own company, The Willis Agency, in 1994. He has been recognized for his achievements with over twenty awards.

Willis and his wife Candi live in Land O' Lakes, Florida. Together they enjoy going on short-term mission trips, exploring the outdoors, golf, and spending time with family-especially their ten grandchildren.