Faith Conversation: Tim Ross

Faith Conversation: Tim Ross

In a candid and heartfelt conversation, Tim Ross shares his journey of faith, struggles, and the transformational power of God's love. From growing up in Texas and Arizona to battling addiction and anxiety, Tim's story is a testament to God's grace and the importance of embracing our true selves in Him.

A Life Rooted in Ministry and Roping

Tim's roots run deep in the rodeo and ministry world. Growing up with a dad who was both a welder and an ordained Baptist minister, Tim was immersed in church music and ministry from a young age. However, a pivotal moment came when a missionary's words planted a misconception in his heart—that loving God meant he had to go to Africa as a missionary, or else face punishment. This misbelief caused Tim to fear that closeness to God would strip away his passion for roping and rodeo.

Discovering the True Character of God

For many years, Tim saw God through a distorted lens—perceiving Him as a stern judge rather than a loving Father. His perception was shaped by teachings that suggested God would break your leg if you didn't humble yourself enough. This led Tim to distance himself from God, staying in the background, just doing what was expected, without truly knowing Him.It wasn't until later in life that Tim's eyes were opened to God's true character—that He is love, mercy, and grace. As he began to understand God's nature, he realized that God's love isn't conditional or punishing but inviting and full of grace. This revelation has become a passion for Tim: helping others see the loving, compassionate Father that He truly is.

• John 3:16: "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life".
• Romans 5:8: "But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us".
• Deuteronomy 7:9: "Know therefore that the Lord your God is God; he is the faithful God, keeping his covenant of love to a thousand generations of those who love him and keep his commandments".
• Jeremiah 31:3: "The Lord appeared to us in the past, saying: ‘I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with unfailing kindness’".

Breaking Free from Old Beliefs and Patterns

Tim shared openly about his struggles with addiction, over the counter drug use, and panic attacks. His journey out of these dark places involved recognizing that panic attacks are not the enemy but a chemical imbalance and a call to turn to God. His breakthrough came when he threw his hands up and declared, "Alright, Lord, if this is real, then let's deal with it." From there, he learned to focus on God's truth, singing songs and speaking words of faith to calm his mind during anxious moments. He emphasizes that healing and freedom come through God's grace, natural remedies, and a renewed understanding of our identity in Christ. Tim encourages us all to see ourselves the way God sees us—worthy, loved, and created for purpose.

Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. Romans 12:2

The Power of Grace and Acceptance

One of the recurring themes in Tim's testimony is extending grace—not only to others but also to ourselves. Recognizing that no one is perfect and that everyone is on a journey of growth helps us to be more compassionate. He advocates for embracing our unique race, talents, and calling, rather than comparing ourselves to others.Tim's message is clear: when we walk in our authentic identity and love God with all our heart, mind, and strength, we discover joy, peace, and abundant life. Social media, comparison, and societal pressures often distract us from this truth, but God's love remains constant and unwavering.

Loving God, Loving Others

For Tim, loving God starts with understanding His goodness—His character revealed through the Bible and through His actions. When we truly grasp how much God loves us, it overflows into our relationships with others. Loving ourselves is essential; only then can we love our spouses, children, and neighbors as God commands. He reminds us that the greatest commandments are to love God and love people—an invitation to live out our faith daily.

A Word of Encouragement 

As the conversation drew to a close, Tim offered powerful encouragement: look past the junk, past the mistakes, and see yourself through God's eyes. Start by speaking life over yourself—declaring, "I love you," and "I'm proud of you." When we do that, we open the door for God's love to flow in, transforming our lives from the inside out.

Closing in Prayer

Tim closed with a heartfelt prayer, declaring victory over spiritual attacks like herpesvirus (symbolic of any curse or negativity) and asking God for wisdom, grace, and abundant life for all. His words remind us that no matter what we've been through—addiction, depression, anxiety—there is hope and a way out through Jesus Christ. His love is greater than any struggle, and His purpose for us is full of joy and peace.

Final Thoughts

Tim Ross’s story is an inspiring reminder that God's love is unconditional, and our true identity is found in Him. When we embrace who He has called us to be, free from comparison and shame, our lives overflow with joy, peace, and purpose. Let’s walk in that truth today.