The testimonies of Brother Dwane and Sister Teresa Gibson Ross (see page XX) remind us that God gives “beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness” (Isaiah 61:3). Their lives—marked by early Christian training, profound loss, and remarkable restoration—reflect the fact that God’s goodness shines even in difficult circumstances.

As a ten-year-old boy, Brother Dwane trembled under conviction and prayed a simple but life-changing prayer: “Lord, save me.” The Lord answered, and from that moment on, God’s grace became evident in his life. Early on, he learned that God speaks powerfully (see page XX for more on that topic), and he listened. Though tempted in his youth by the things of the world, he kept his hand in God’s hand—and God kept him. His testimony stands as a strong reminder that the Lord is able to keep us from falling. Through every stage, God not only protected him from sin, but drew deeper devotion from his heart and in time replaced his doubts with purpose.

A time of “ashes” in his life came years later. In March of 2007, the Lord called his beloved wife, Sister Rosa, home to Heaven, leaving Brother Dwane with his three teenage children. Such grief can reduce life to rubble. In that dark valley, they found comfort in the assurance that God was in control and that Sister Rosa had reached her goal. Though sorrow lingered, the Lord was there to heal broken hearts.

Sister Teresa’s journey unfolded differently but was marked by the same faithful hand of God. Raised in a home where Scripture was honored and prayer was constant, she resisted salvation for years. When her marriage nearly collapsed because of her temper, she fell to her knees and prayed, “If You save me, I’ll serve You.” God answered that prayer, transforming her heart and saving her soul.

For Sister Teresa too, “ashes” fell on her family. Just weeks after her husband found salvation, he died suddenly. She was left with two small boys and a shattered heart; she could barely pray beyond whispering the name “Jesus.” She found that Name to be a strong tower. In her deepest sorrow, God carried her.

For both Brother Dwane and Sister Teresa, God saw their pain and met their needs. Then, in His perfect timing, He brought two widowed hearts together. He blended families and multiplied blessings in a way that neither could have planned. What the enemy would have turned to despair, God turned into a testimony. Though the way was not always easy, they found joy by walking with Him.

If you are experiencing a time of “ashes,” let this family’s example encourage you that the God who has power to save also has power to give beauty for ashes. As you read the contents of this magazine, may you be reminded that our God is a good God, and even if you do not understand His ways, you can trust that He is quietly preparing a beautiful future for you.