Faith at Work:
William Perkins,
Exec. Director AL Board of Medical Examiners

William, thank you for sharing how your faith is at work in the community. Was it a spiritual calling that led you to dedicate your time and service to the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners?

I have always been one who believes that God has a plan for our lives. And during this lifetime, nothing is certain unless He approves it. I find peace in knowing that God knew best for me regarding my profession. He places us in places where we can have a tremendous impact on others, make a difference in our communities, change the trajectory of lives, and even have a hand in healing and helping others.

What are some things in your daily occupation that reassure you that you are at the place God wants you to be?

Realizing that God has placed me in a position to impart into such a young staff is invigorating. And, also, extremely rewarding in itself. I have the opportunity to minister to others and to receive ministry from others. By doing so with my colleagues—the joy that I receive is priceless. Pouring into others and being receptive to others pouring into me, I know that God has a hand in all of that, which gives me great comfort in knowing I’m at the place He wants me to be.

For most of us, we find solace in our faith journey. How does your faith sustain you in continuing to dedicate yourself to your career, even when there are challenges ahead?

Great question! The most encouraging scripture for me is taken from Joshua 1:9, “Have I not commanded thee? Be strong and of good courage; be not afraid neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.” Inevitably, we all face challenges in life, even when we’re in a season of growth and restoration. I find comfort in this scripture to help me with those unforeseen, challenging times ahead.

For Christians who struggle to live their faith beyond the church walls, what encouragement would you give them?

God has a time and place to bring us all into repentance. And to learn of his many blessings. Having a Bible-teaching church home and a dedicated Bible study program is the most significant advice I can give. If you choose to study the word of God, worship in His kingdom and meditate on His holy words—peace comes from within.

At the brink of 2020, the world was drastically and unexpectedly affected by the coronavirus crisis. However, we are moving in the right direction. But for people who are still having difficulty dealing with it, what are some tips of encouragement within the Christian faith?

There are stories within the Bible that speak to crisis and how to overcome and be encouraged. John 16:33 tells us that “We may have peace in a world of tribulation. But to take heart; for I have overcome the world!” Scriptures are a part of my life, and I use them for encouragement and guidance.

Being a believer of Christ, there are values that you live by in your personal life. What are values that you carry into your professional life?

Being on time and having a spirit of excellence, love, and dedication are the values I contribute to success. All of these values have been instrumental in my life. I feel that the values I choose to use in my personal and professional life have contributed to becoming a well-rounded person in every area of my life.

Your faith is a vital part of who you are, and it adds an exciting dimension to your personality. How would your colleagues describe you?

I think they would say I’m always positive. The reality is, problems will arise. But having the ability to keep others engaged with a positive outlook is the key to overcoming challenges.

Rightfully so, there are several things you are proud of when it comes to your occupation. What is something that sticks out most?

The one thing that sticks out the most is God allowing me the opportunity to lead others and share the Gospel.

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William has been married to his wife, Mimi, originally from North Carolina, for 21 years. They have two daughters, Shaylyn and Tori, and a beautiful granddaughter, Laydon.