My God Story By Don J. Ross Sr.
My name is Don Ross, Senior, and I have lived in the Crystal Springs area for about twenty–five years. The story I am about to share is true. I was compelled to write it down some years ago and did, giving out many copies in my day–to–day life. In my business endeavors, after completing my service in the customer‘s office, I would hand out the copies. I would also insert them into mail–out invoice envelopes. I am retired now but still want to tell my story.
I was raised in the Bible Belt where I attended both church and a private school from the 5th grade through the 12th grade. In order to graduate, I had to learn both the Old and New Testaments, but I was never told that, in order to be saved and go to Heaven when I die, I must be born again. (See John 3:5-7) I was told that I must follow the church doctrine and rules that we had to learn, and that, maybe, if I was good enough, I might go to Heaven; no assurance whatsoever.
After a little time, I married a girl from my same religion. We had a large family of twelve children. I really tried to be that good person. I was very active in the church and gave the appearance of being a good person. More time went by and I became more focused on myself, neglecting my responsibilities as both a husband and a father. A wedge began to grow between my wife and l. I did care for my family and provided for them; I just did not completely give them what they needed. Since my parents divorced when I was only two years old, I did not want the word divorce to be in our vocabulary.
More time escaped. My wife and I were invited to a small gathering where the Word of God was shared, and it was powerful. My wife made a decision to surrender her life to Jesus Christ, and it totally changed her life–since I lived with her, I could see the change.
Several weeks later, while driving home from work, I started thinking on spiritual things. I began to hum a tune I had heard at the gathering with my wife. I began to put words to the tune. Because of the CB radio in my car, there was confusion, so I turned it off and continued my song. I simply asked the Lord to forgive my sins, and, before I could get the words out of my mouth, I began to cry. The words came from my heart. He not only forgave me, but He also came into the car, sat next to me, and put His arm around me. I felt the warmth of His body, and I knew that I knew He had forgiven me of my sins. He spoke to me and said, “Don, I have cast your sins into the sea of forgetfulness. I remember them no more.” I could not stop weeping, and I knew He was alive! By that time I had stopped the car onto the shoulder of the road, I had to gather myself together. I could not wait to get home to tell my wife, Judith!
I began to thirst for God‘s Word (see Matthew 5:6). Hungering for His Word, I discovered the gift of the Holy Sprit and, along with my prayer language (speaking in tongues) and the power that goes along with that gift. I received it by faith.
As I began to grow in the Lord, I would read and meditate in His Word. I understood that He was not only my Savior, but He was also my Healer, and I needed to be healed. Years earlier, shortly after my wife and I were married, I developed some physical issues that puzzled the doctors.
They thought I had lupus erythematosus, a blood issue. As a result, I received a medical discharge from the National Guard. Later, after a number of hospital tests over several years, I was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis. At that time, I was only twenty–eight years old. It was some ten years later that, while driving home in my car, I became born again. I was to later learn the Word of God‘s will for all who believe that, not only was I saved but also healed by His stripes (See 1 Peter 2:24). I received my healing then and there but did not see the manifestation for a couple months more.
I share this story or my testimony with you so that God will get all the glory. It is not my doing at all; I only believe in His Word. I also desire for all who read this true testimony that they would tell their story of being born again to whomever the Holy Spirit instructs. Jesus said that if He be lifted up, He would draw men to Him. His Holy Spirit will give you the power you need to be bold and share your story. Also, I encourage you to write down your story. The testimony that God has given you is a powerful tool to plant and water seeds while letting your light shine in this perverse generation. Also, remember, God is not a respecter of persons. He will do for you just as He did for Paul the Apostle. By more of God‘s children doing this, it will speed Jesus‘ return.
Don, Judith, and their 12 Children* (John 3:5–7). Jesus answered, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. 6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.[a] 7 Do not marvel that I said to you, ‘You[b] must be born again.’
*(Matthew 5:6). Jesus answered, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. 6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.[a] 7 Do not marvel that I said to you, ‘You[b] must be born again.’
*(1 Peter 2:24). He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed.
Thank you!!!
Wonderful story! I know this couple, and they are such great examples of what a Christian should be! Thanks for sharing.
Thank you for sharing your GOD story and encouraging others to do the same. Blessings to you and all your beautiful family.