Okmulgee Pastor Reflects on Knowing God Personally

Randy Zinn shares how his grandparents' faith influenced his own relationship with God.

Published on Mar. 6, 2026

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In this personal reflection, Pastor Randy Zinn of Russell Missionary Baptist Church in Arkansas discusses the importance of having a personal relationship with God. He shares how his grandparents' strong faith and desire to introduce others to Jesus played a formative role in his own spiritual journey, leading him to accept Christ at a young age. Zinn emphasizes that God's greatest wish is for all people to know Him intimately as their Heavenly Father.

Why it matters

This story highlights the power of personal faith and testimony in inspiring others to seek a deeper connection with the divine. Zinn's experience underscores how family and community can profoundly shape one's spiritual development and relationship with God.

The details

Zinn recalls fond memories of visiting his grandparents, Grandpa Newton and Grandma Stella Zinn, in "Grassy Holler" near Fifty-Six, Arkansas. During these visits, his grandfather would not only discuss everyday topics like hunting and the weather, but would always steer the conversation towards Jesus and encourage Zinn and his brothers to know the Lord as their Savior. Zinn's grandmother was also known for her tireless efforts to introduce everyone she met to Christ. These influences ultimately led Zinn to accept Jesus and know God as his Heavenly Father at the age of 11 at the Fifty-Six Baptist Church.

  • Zinn accepted Jesus as his Savior at age 11 at the Fifty-Six Baptist Church.

The players

Randy Zinn

The pastor of Russell Missionary Baptist Church in Russell, Arkansas, who previously lived in Okmulgee, Oklahoma.

Grandpa Newton

Zinn's grandfather, who would discuss Jesus and encourage his grandchildren to know the Lord during their visits.

Grandma Stella Zinn

Zinn's grandmother, who was known for her tireless efforts to introduce everyone she met to Christ.

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What they’re saying

“I know Him, He knows me. When my burdens are too heavy, He rescues me. When I fall down on my knees, He makes me higher than the trees. I know Him, He knows me.”

— Gary Epperson (yourokmulgee.com)

The takeaway

This personal story underscores the profound impact that family and community can have in shaping one's spiritual journey and relationship with God. Zinn's experience highlights how a strong personal faith, coupled with a desire to share it with others, can inspire the next generation to seek a deeper connection with the divine.