April 2023

G

1000 eS

Con dently take on tough terrain with next-level capability. Bring along the entire crew for the adventure of a lifetime.

1000 eS

• Spacious, 4-Passenger Seating

• Powerful, High Torque 999cc Parallel-Twin Engine

• Massive Ground Clearance And Long-Travel Suspension

Con dently take on tough terrain with next-level capability. Bring along the entire crew for the adventure of a lifetime.

WARN® VRX 45, the WARN logo and THE RED HOOK STRAP are registered trademarks of Warn Industries, Inc. Accessorized unit shown.

• Spacious, 4-Passenger Seating

• Powerful, High Torque 999cc Parallel-Twin Engine

• Massive Ground Clearance And Long-Travel Suspension

EDITION

EDITION

WHITE'S

CYCLE

VRX 45, the WARN logo and THE RED HOOK STRAP are registered trademarks of Warn Industries, Inc. Accessorized unit shown.

MARINE 4917 HWY 58, CHATTANOOGA, TN 37416

&

KAWASAKI CARES: Read Owner’s Manual and all on-product warnings. Warning: The Teryx® side x side can be hazardous to operate. For your safety: Always wear a helmet, eye protection and protective clothing. Never operate under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Avoid excessive speeds and stunt driving. Be extra careful on difficult terrain. Protect the environment. The Kawasaki Teryx side x side is an off-highway vehicle only, and is not designed, equipped or manufactured for use on public streets, roads or highways. ©2022 Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A.

423.499.6000 | WHITESCYCLEMARINE.COM

Scan with camera to view videos, key features and more.

KAWASAKI CARES: Read Owner’s Manual and all on-product warnings. Warning: The Teryx® side x side can be hazardous to operate. For your safety: Always wear a helmet, eye protection and protective clothing. Never operate under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Avoid excessive speeds and stunt driving. Be extra careful on difficult terrain. Protect the environment. The Kawasaki Teryx side x side is an off-highway vehicle only, and is not designed, equipped or manufactured for use on public streets, roads or highways. ©2022 Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A.

TERYX KRX®4

TERYX KRX®4 1000 eS SPECIAL

Scan with camera to view videos, key features and more.

TERYX KRX®4

TERYX KRX®4 1000 eS SPECIAL

WARN®

About Us

WRITERS

Dr. Alan Hix

Angie Bishop-Forsyth

Dr. Bobby Sneed

Brenda Dedmon

Charles Finney

David Huff

David W. Kramer

Janise Copeman

John Garrod

Judy Hood

Kenneth E. Ware

Matt Jensen

Monica Gambrell

Rick Hughes

SALES

Matthew Ruckman

423-503-1410

Email: goodnewstn@gmail.com

DESIGN

Caleb Prytherch

Email: art.goodnews@gmail.com

PHOTOGRAPHER

Paula Knipp 423-310-4207

FACEBOOK

GoodNews Christian Magazine Catoosa

DISTRIBUTION

5,000 Monthly

EDITOR/ARTICLE COORDINATOR

Jodi Varnado

Email: articles.goodnews@gmail.com

PUBLISHER

Matthew and Bethany Ruckman

Cell: 423-503-1410

E-mail: goodnewstn@gmail.com

OFFICE

423-790-5378

WEBSITE goodnewscm.com issuu.com/catoosaga

Hello Friends,

We want to take a moment to tell you who we are and what we are about. Our names are Matt and Bethany Ruckman and we have six beautiful children, Brendon, Kailey, Andrew, Leah Jean, Emma, and Cooper. We live in Cleveland, Tennessee, and love what this town has to offer! We have started GoodNews Christian Magazine because we feel that when God, family, and community are combined, lives will be changed.

GoodNews Christian Magazine is a complimentary, Christian lifestyle publication. You can find us throughout the community in retail establishments, churches, restaurants, and more. Our magazine opens the door for Christians to work together to grow and strengthen our community through relevant editorial and effective advertising.

GoodNews Christian Magazine is written by men and women in the community who love and serve the Lord. Our hearts are open and willing to be used by God to reach out to the community to spread the GoodNews!

Put Up or Shut Up

by David W. Kramer

As a Pastor, I have often told my congregation that one phone call or event can change your life forever. I’ve witnessed people receive phone calls about car accidents, house fires, sudden illnesses, and deaths that immediately changed their life. Well, I experienced one of those events in my life last year.

In July 2022, I had an appointment with an Ear, Nose and Throat doctor in Chattanooga. I had a persistent ulcer under my tongue that would not go away. The doctor took one look at my tongue and said he thought it was cancer. He then proceeded to tell me that the only way to deal with this type of cancer was to cut out the cancerous part of my tongue.

Wow. That was a lot to take in. I had suspected it might be cancer, but a previous doctor had said it wasn’t. I knew at that moment that this was one of those life-changing moments I had preached about.

I believe it is important for us as believers and leaders to be transparent when we face trials in our lives. Shortly after that doctor visit, my wife and I decided that we should share the experience we were about to go through on our Facebook page. I felt it was time to “put up or shut up!” I had told others to trust in God through their trials. Would I do the same? I said to my wife, Alecia, “We have to show others how to walk through a trail or a test. If we don’t show them, how will they know that God will intervene and rescue them?”

What a journey it has been! I can testify that God has been with me every step of the way. When I awoke from the 8-hour surgery to remove ¾ of my tongue and reconstruct it with tissue from my left leg calf, I remember thinking that wasn’t so bad. Afterwards, when they allowed my wife to see me in recovery, I remember mouthing the word “hope.” No matter what had happened, I still had hope because I still had God on my side.

So often, we want God to heal us immediately without ever suffering any pain or discomfort. But the truth is that He often holds our hand through the trial. Isaiah 43:2 tells

us, “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; And through the rivers, they shall not overflow you, When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned…”

Two months after the surgery, I went through six weeks of chemotherapy and radiation. I can truthfully say that I have felt the waters literary up to my neck/mouth—yet I did not drown! Why? Because God was with me.

As believers, we are not exempt from trails and tribulations. However, we have a definite advantage—we have an all-powerful, all-knowing God on our side! He never leaves us nor forsakes us. He is always there.

Let me encourage you today. If you are facing something in your life that is life-changing, place your trust in Yahweh God. I can attest to you that He is faithful. I can testify that He will guide you and help you every single day. He may not always do things the way you want them done, but He knows what is best for you. He’s our loving Father, and He knows how to take care of you!

Bishop David Kramer has served as the pastor of The Church of God at Jerusalem Acres since 2010. He has also served as the music director for the international church for over 20 years. David resides in Cleveland with his wife, Alecia Kramer.

Springtime Fun

by Brenda Dedmon

One of the most beautiful times of the year for me is spring. It seems after months of winter, when the days are cold, cloudy, and rainy, I sometimes forget how beautiful our world is. When I begin to see the beautiful flowers budding, trees putting back on green leaves, and the birds chirping early in the morning, I am reminded of the Scripture, “God made everything beautiful in its own time” (Ecclesiastes 3:11).

Spring reminds us that even when we think things are gloomy and sad, God created a beautiful world for us to enjoy. It gives us hope that God will always take care of us. How does spring make you feel? When spring arrives, it seems to brighten up our lives with the arrival of baby animals, pretty flowers, and nature springing to life. It is a great time to enjoy the beautiful world God created and to explore things with your family and friends.

The following ideas are suggestions for how you can re-discover the beautiful world with your friends and family:

• Spring Scavenger Hunt. Take a walk with your family in your neighborhood or a local park to discover what spring looks like in your hometown. Items to look for could include: a flying insect, a flower, new leaves, seeds, twigs, an ant, something red, and something that starts with the first letter of your name.

• Visit a Pet Farm. Ask your parents to find a Pet Farm to visit. You could feed a bottle to a baby goat, cuddle a baby chicken, gather eggs, ride a pony, and do many other fun activities with animals.

• Make a Birdhouse. There are birdhouse kits at your local hobby shops and hardware stores, or you might have items at your home to build one. Discover the type of birds that you might see in your backyard. Explore what kind of bird feed you

would need to place in the birdhouse. Keep a journal of the types of birds you see visiting the birdhouse.

• Draw a Spring Scene. Using neon glitter sidewalk chalk, design a beautiful spring picture to enjoy. You may use items from the Scavenger Hunt to help you decide on the design. Invite your neighbors to join you in creating a beautiful picture for the neighborhood to enjoy.

• Visit a Farmer’s Market. This would be a great time to discover fruits and vegetables that are grown in your town. It would also be a fun time to try out fruits or vegetables you have never eaten.

• Fly Kites. Visit a park to fly kites. You may choose to make your own kite or fly a favorite kite you have. Discover what is the best way to get the wind to pick up the kite and keep it up in the air. Remember to give thanks to God for creating the wind so you can fly a kite.

Remember to give thanks to God for the springtime and the beautiful world He gave us to enjoy!

Written by Rev. Brenda Dedmon, retired director of Children’s Learning Center, First Baptist of Dalton and an avid Roll Tide fan.

WILLOW TREE FARMS

Nestled in the rolling foothills of Northwest Georgia. Conveniently located between Chattanooga and Atlanta, our family farm offers unrivaled beauty and serenity with just the right touch of rustic charm and modern amenities. Our lush grounds frame tranquil ponds. Cascading willow trees sway majestically in the mountain breezes. Cattle and llamas graze in nearby verdant fields as ducks and swans paddle peacefully atop shimmering waters. Aside from the pristine countryside, we offer a barn, a pavilion, two gazebos, an open, flat grassy area, and a fire pit for your special occasion. Whether you need indoor or outdoor settings for your next event, look no further than Willow Tree Farms.

How to Make Your Money Go Further in 2023

Money Matters Rick Hughes with

Driven by a passion to educate, inform and prepare future retirees, Mr. Hughes founded Hughes Retirement Group in 2007. His main interest is helping his clients in reducing their taxes.

There are about a million reasons to want your money to go further in 2023. Maybe the high inflation throughout 2022 has you feeling like you are paying more for less, or perhaps you took a pay cut that made you feel financially squeezed.

Maybe you received a bonus and you want to make sure it is put to good use. And, let’s not forget that this past year’s stock market performance is making everyone’s net worth drop like a rock.

Whatever your reason, it’s always smart to look ahead to a new year with the goal of doing better if you can. But what are the best ways to make your money go further when it feels like everything at the store costs more each time you go?

1. Ditch High-Interest Credit Card Debt

Rising interest rates were a good thing for savers throughout all of 2022, but they had the opposite effect on households that carry long-term credit card debt. In fact, the average credit card interest rate increased from 18% to 19.5% by December of 2022.

2. Start Budgeting

Begin tracking your spending and using a monthly budget that determines where your money goes each month. Not only is budgeting the most effective way to understand how to stretch your money further, but it also allows you to understand what you have coming in and going out.

3. Automate Your Savings

Begin to put money into savings or investment accounts first, versus waiting until the end of the month and seeing

what you have left. As time goes on, you won’t even miss this money because it’s not money you think you can spend. Make sure to automate so it is not missed and pick a day each month for it to come out of your account.

4.

Invest In Yourself

Most of us hear a lot about investing in the stock market, but what about investing in yourself? Consider certain types of self-improvements in 2023. Maybe it should be education or improving a skill. This may enable you to increase your earning potential and improve your financial situation.

5. Take Steps to Improve Your

Credit

If you have had a few credit mishaps over the last few years and your credit score is not as good as it should be, the new year is a good time to turn things around. After all, having good credit can mean paying lower interest rates and fewer fees any time you borrow money, and it can help you qualify for lower car insurance premiums, too.

6. Increase Contributions to Retirement Accounts

Maximizing income in 2023 involves taking advantage of increase on income limits and contribution amounts for tax-advantage retirement accounts like 401(k) plans and Traditional and Roth IRA’s. The contribution limits for 401(k) and similar workplace retirement savings plans are increasing to $22,500 in 2023. If you are 50 years of age or older it is $30,000. Meanwhile, IRA contribution limits increase to $6,500 and the catch up for people 50 or older is $7,500.

I hope this information helps you!

Don’t Forsake It, For Your Sake

by John Garrod

“And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching” (Hebrews 10:24-25).

Three years ago, the world changed, and as much as we like to talk about only being tourists in it, we suddenly found out that “tourism” could end virtually overnight. Suddenly, we were quarantined, set at least 6-feet apart, with no clear idea of when the turmoil would cease. That comfortable pew which had begun to take on the shape of my posterior was exchanged for the front seat of my car during something called “parking lot church.” We honked our amens, beepbeeped our hallelujahs, but it was not the same. Then came online sermons, praise and worship. If God can use a donkey and a whale, He can most assuredly use Wi-Fi, and people were still getting saved through those ministries.

But something was missing, and we all felt it. Separated by a few feet or sitting in our own homes, we lost out on something—a valuable part of being part of a local body of believers. No emoji can replace a hug, and a set of digital hands clasped to pray isn’t the same as having your brothers and sisters lay hands on you and pray you through to the very throne of God. And as appetizing as some of your foodie pictures may be, it’s not the same as breaking bread with each other.

And yet we did the unthinkable: We got used to it. Staying home and “dialing in” (I can’t remember the last time I actually “dialed” anything) to service became… acceptable. Don’t get me wrong: Online ministry can be a tremendous blessing, especially to those who can’t physically be present. But I’ll confess if you won’t: Sometimes it got very convenient to coast a bit. Sleep in. Attend Bedside Assembly. I’m the Dad, the Husband: I should be the spiritual leader, and I’m hugging a pillow at 11:30.

Skipping out on the Body may have become easy, but getting up, getting dressed, and getting to the House of God is worth the effort. In the company of brothers and sisters, you hear the testimonies. Shoulder to shoulder in the altars, you feel the camaraderie: You’re PART of something. You’re not alone. And that sense of belonging becomes even stronger when you get the opportunity to reach out to someone and help them. I don’t know if you’ve read this anywhere before, but that whole “It’s more blessed to give

than to receive” thing is real. Whether we’re laying hands on someone or just resting a hand on a shoulder, sharing a laugh or giving a few words of encouragement, when we’re supporting our brothers and sisters in Christ, we are working as His agent.

So, Dad, go ahead and set that alarm for Sunday morning. For every Sunday morning. Set it early enough that you can get the kids up and stop and get donuts for the Sunday school class. You’ll be glad you did.

John Garrod is father of 6, husband of 1, an ESOL teacher in Dalton, GA, a Lee U graduate (c/o ‘19), a U.S. Army veteran and a member of South Cleveland COG.

Author

Fragrant Friend

by Angie Bishop-Forsyth

Relationships. What comes to your mind when you hear that word? For some, it may look like work. For others, it may look like sacrifice. I’m here to tell you it’s both. Depending on your people, it can be a real task. And, depending on your nature, it may be all about your motives. So, before we go any further, pause for a moment and ask yourself, “What do I bring to the table in my relationships, and what do I seek out of a friend, brother, sister, parent, or spouse?”

As a child, I had two girls I considered my very best friends. The problem was those two did not like each other. They were the type of people who could only have one friend at a time. Therefore, the dislike came from being jealous of each other for having to share that friendship with me. This taught me at a young age how to be a peacekeeper. I did my best to split time between the two and keep the waters calm, but I so desired the three of us to be together, sharing that bond as a whole.

Now, with 760 miles that separate me from them, these women are still my friends today. I can talk to them and it’s like the miles never separated us. I say all this to show you that, even at a young age, I had to work at maintaining these friendships. The two girls didn’t always make it easy, and as a non-believer at the time, I had no idea the importance of the lessons I was learning. There’s been a lot of life lived from then until now. One of the girls suffered abuse at the hand of her

father, which led her down some dark paths for quite a while—drugs, prison, and hard living. But God! The other suffered a nasty divorce that took her to the feet of Jesus. I know as children, none of us were taught about the love of Jesus, but through life’s crazy journey, we all found our place in His arms. We are all now what I desired as a little girl—united! It’s not by our efforts but by the handiwork of God.

The honesty and love we have for each other go way beyond our own doing. It’s a deeper love, as it comes from God. Love like this is unmasked, raw, and covered in truth. We have each other’s best interests at heart. We encourage one another. We offer Godly advice to each other. We see the value in each other. We do what God calls us to do in our relationships, and that is to love without limits, speak in truth and love, build one another up, and freely give our time with no ulterior motives. The Bible tells us that “heartfelt counsel of a friend is sweet like perfume and incense” (Proverbs 27:9). Find fragrant friends and be a fragrant friend! Make your relationships be about the Father’s business, and you will have lasting relationships that bring honor and glory to God for all time!

My name is Angie Bishop-Forsyth. I’m just a simple lady with a heart that chases after God! I love to share about Him anywhere I can. To me, there’s no one or no thing on this earth greater to talk about! God has blessed me in tremendous ways and I not only love to tell about it, but I live to tell about it!

Ringgold Church Directory

Baptist

Boynton Baptist Church

4093 Boynton Drive

Ringgold, GA 30736

706-952-1551

Briarwood Baptist Church

26 Ellis Springs Road

Ringgold, GA 30736

706-965-9177

Burning Bush Baptist Church

2195 Burning Bush Road

Ringgold, GA 30736

706-866-1989

Calvary Memorial Baptist Church

518 Highway #41

Ringgold, GA 30736

706-891-9340

Catoosa Baptist Tabernacle

4994 Highway 41

Ringgold, GA 30736

706-935-4323

Cherokee Valley Baptist Church

1495 Cherokee Valley Road

Ringgold, GA 30736

706-935-6220

Christ First Church

1008 N. Beaumont Road

Ringgold, GA 30736

706-375-1008

Clearview Baptist Church

2183 Dietz Road

Ringgold, GA 30736

706-866-0164

Ebenezer Baptist Church

77 Hackett Road

Ringgold, GA 30736

706-965-7970

Faith Baptist Church

308 Boynton Drive

Ringgold, GA 30736

423-509-5334

First Baptist Church of Ringgold

7611 Nashville Street

Ringgold, GA 30736

706-935-2358

Friendship Primitive Baptist Church

851 Ooltewah Ringgold Road

Ringgold, GA 30736

706-935-2382

Gospel Way Baptist Church

31 Bowling Road

Ringgold, GA 30736

706-891-9866

Grace Baptist Church

7638 Nashville Street

Ringgold, GA 30736

706-965-7969

Harvest Baptist

Church of the Deaf

1314 Old Three Notch Road

Ringgold, GA 30736

706-375-7107

Video Call: 706-956-0445

Heritage Pointe Baptist Church

60 Dyer Bridge Place

Ringgold, GA 30736

706-858-0976

Hickory Grove Baptist Church

5010 Houston Valley Road

Ringgold, GA 30736

706-673-6999

Keith Baptist Church

1573 Keith Road

Ringgold, GA 30736

706-450-0963

Living Faith Baptist Church Highway 41

Ringgold, GA 30736

706-891-1817

Midway Baptist Church

Highway 41 North

Ringgold, GA 30736

706-937-2317

Mount Peria Baptist Church

341 Sparks Street

Ringgold, GA 30736

706-935-4887

Mount Pisgah Baptist Church

66 Westbrook Road

Ringgold, GA 30736

706-935-3031

Mount Vernon Baptist Church

1006 Mount Vernon Road

Ringgold, GA 30736

706-935-3872

New Bethel Baptist Church

1635 Salem Valley Road

Ringgold, GA 30736

706-965-3500

New Friendship Baptist Church

3833 Salem Valley Road

Ringgold, GA 30736

New Heights Baptist Church

158 Ooltewah Ringgold Rd

Ringgold, GA 30736

706-965-9838

New Liberty Baptist Church

923 Graysville Road

Ringgold, GA 30736

706-937-4754

Peavine Baptist Church

1089 Peavine Road

Rock Spring, GA 30739

706-375-4721

Philadelphia Baptist Church

1065 Pine Grove Road

Ringgold, GA 30736

706-891-5683

Pine Grove Baptist Church

46 Pine Grove Road

Ringgold, GA 30736

706-891-2427

Pleasant Grove Baptist Church

7769 Alabama Highway

Ringgold, GA 30736

706-935-3348

Pleasant Valley Baptist Church

1995 Ooltewah Ringgold Rd

Ringgold, GA 30736

706-537-3633

Poplar Springs Baptist Church

422 Poplar Springs Road

Ringgold, GA 30736

706-965-4461

Salem Baptist Church

1947 Keith Salem Road

Ringgold, GA 30736

706-965-3907

Welcome Hill Baptist Church

223 Inman Street

Ringgold, GA 30736

706-965-4814

Church of Christ

Cohutta Road Church of Christ

2233 Mount Vernon Road

Ringgold, GA 30736

706-935-3884

Ringgold Church of Christ

4099 Nashville Street

Ringgold, GA 30736

706-965-2820

Church of God

Boynton Church of God

1956 Three Notch Road

Ringgold, GA 30736

706-937-6300

Indian Springs Church of God

2256 Highway 41

North Ringgold, GA 30736

706-937-3599

Noble Church of God

75 Glass Rd

Lafayette, GA 30728

Ringgold Church of God

117 Emberson Drive

Ringgold, GA 30736

706-935-2056

Wallaceville Church of God

236 Harp Switch Road

Chickamauga, GA 30707

706-375-2736

Community

Green Pasture Community Church

1008 North Beaumont Road

Ringgold, GA 30736

706-375-7333

Lee’s Chapel Community Church

3253 Catoosa Parkway

Ringgold, GA 30736

706-935-9928

Rock Bridge Community Church

102 Remco Shops Lane

Ringgold, GA 30736

706-279-3175

Full Gospel

Yates Spring Full Gospel Church

1300 Yates Springs Road

Ringgold, GA 30736

706-638-2305

Methodist

Boynton UMC

4246 Boynton Drive

Ringgold, GA 30736

706-866-2626

Graysville UMC

2331 Graysville Road

Ringgold, GA 30736

706-891-9253

Ringgold UMC

7484 Nashville Street

Ringgold, GA 30736

706-935-4777

Woodstation UMC

13198 Alabama Highway

Ringgold, GA 30736

706-965-3360

Non-Denominational Battlefield Church of Faith

Highway 41 South

Ringgold, GA 30736

706-937-7729

Calvary Chapel Ringgold

548 Boynton Drive

Ringgold, GA 30736

706-952-1502

Church of Living Faith

7623 Alabama Highway

Ringgold, GA 30736

706-937-5673

Crossroads Church

7638 Nashville Street

Ringgold, GA 30736

crossroadsringgold.com

Faith Builders International

8309 Highway 41

Ringgold, GA 30736

256-338-5031

Grace Memorial Church

118 East Nashville Street

Ringgold, GA 30736

706-965-7969

The Gathering

2501 Pine Grove Road

Ringgold, GA 30736

706-841 0161

Light House Church 1201 Lafayette Road

Rossville, GA 30741

706-861-2715

Messianic Ministry To Israel

P.O. Box 22654

Chattanooga, TN 37422

New Life Church

PO Box 1973

Ringgold, GA 30736

706-866-7799

Venue Church

3969 Cloud Springs Road

Ringgold, GA 30736

423-637-7100

Presbyterian

Chickamauga Presbyterian

700 7th Street

Chickamauga, GA 30707

706-375-3432

Christ Fellowship

1176 North Three Notch Rd.

Ringgold, GA 30736

706-937-4115

Morton Memorial

560 Red Belt Rd.

Chickamauga, GA 30707

706-338-7176

Seventh-Day Adventist

Ringgold Seventh-Day Adventist Church

124 Kittle Street

Ringgold, GA 30736

706-935-3741

Battlefield Community

Seventh-Day Adventist Church

96 Hillman Lane

Ringgold, GA 30736

706-861-5999

Fort Oglethorpe Church Directory

Baptist

Anchor of Hope Baptist Church

2613 Lakeview Drive

Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742

706-866-8318

Battlefield Baptist Church

178 South Cedar Lane

Oglethorpe, GA 30742

706-866-1316

Burning Bush Baptist Church

2195 Burning Bush Road

Ringgold, GA 30736

706-866-1989

Calvary Memorial Baptist Church

2 E Gate Drive

Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742

706-866-6183

Cloud Springs Baptist Church

207 Cloud Springs Road

Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742

706-866-0164

First Baptist Church

Ft. Oglethorpe

2645 LaFayette Road

Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742

706-866-0232

Moriah Baptist Church

2864 Battlefield Parkway

Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742

706-866-8843

Nellie Head Memorial Baptist

2379 Catoosa Parkway

Tunnell Hill, GA 30755

706-935-5236

Old Fort Baptist Church

18 Van Cleve Street

Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742

706-861-2807

Parkway Baptist Temple

65 Stuart Road

Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742

706-866-0325

Victory Baptist Church

1013 Layfayette Road

Rossville, GA 30741

706-866-0371

Catholic

Saint Gerard Catholic Church

3049 Lafayette Road

Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742

706-861-9410

Church of Christ

Fort Oglethorpe Church of Christ

6 Harker Road

Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742

706-866-4124

Community

Battlefield Ministries Church

64 3rd Street

Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742

706-866-9090

Episcopal Church of the Nativity

1520 Cross Street

Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742

706-866-9773

Methodist

Fairview UMC

2112 McFarland Avenue

Rossville, GA 30741

423-653-1043

Fort Oglethorpe UMC

1733 Battlefield Parkway

Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742

706-820-6314

Newnan Springs UMC

78 Monanaw Avenue

Rossville GA 30741

706-866-6724

Nazarene

Battlefield Parkway Church of the Nazarene

3220 Battlefield Parkway

Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742

706-866-9838

Non-Denominational

Battlefield Praise & Worship

1337 Battlefield Pkwy, Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742

706-913-0531

Chosen Generation Ministries

92 W Patterson Avenue

Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742

423-779-6777

Living Waters Ministries

1337 Battlefield Pkwy

Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742

423-255-8655

Ridgeland Point Church

1417 Happy Valley Rd.

Rossville, GA 30741

RockPointe Church

1278 Cross Street

Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742

706-820-6523

Untethered Church

2473 Lafayette Road

Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742

423-991-6067

Presbyterian

First Presbyterian Church

1 Harker Road

Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742

706-866-0232

List/Update

Your Church Listing (423) 790-5378

He Is Alive!

by David Huff

He has risen! He is alive! All four Gospels have the resurrection story in them. Each holds its own account of the events as the Apostles saw or heard them. Personally, I like the story found in Matthew best, but I like portions of all. In Matthew 28, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary are walking to the tomb when suddenly an earthquake happens, the stone is rolled away, and an angel appears before them. How much fear did the two women have when, suddenly, they face an angel in front of them? Can you imagine what they were thinking about when they saw the angel? The story says that the guards were paralyzed with fear, almost like they were dead.

I wonder how the two women felt when they heard the angel say, “I know you are looking for Jesus, but He is not here. He has risen.” I like to think about this moment. They just watched Jesus die a horrible death three days before, and now they hear an angel tell them that He is alive. Can you imagine the confusion that is raging on the inside of them? We are fortunate we have the Bible with us to tells us what happened, but back in the women’s day the New Testament was being written. The story continues by saying that the two women ran away with fear and great joy. I can hear them running along the path and shouting to each other. He is alive! He is alive! Jesus then appears to the ladies. They fall to His feet and worship Him.

There have been many times in my life when I have failed to fall to Jesus’ feet to worship Him. There have been many times that I have forgotten that my Savior is alive and working in the world around me. Yet, Jesus says, I forgive you. It is never too late to start over. Jesus wants us to know that He is alive. Jesus is still at work in the world today. He is still proving

that He wants to help us. We all get lost and ask, “If Jesus is alive, then why is He not helping me with this situation?” When the reality is that He is. We get blinded by the enemy of our souls telling us that our Savior is disappointed in us because we continue to sin. But the Bible says that we all fall short of His glory. Every one of us sins, not just you. Jesus loves us with a passion that took Him to the grave so that we would not have to pay a price that we could never pay, and He asks for us to give our lives to Him. This Easter, allow the Savior to open your eyes to where He is working in your time of need.

My name is David Huff, and I am married to Brittany and together we have five wonderful kids. We attend Rock Bridge Community Church Calhoun where I serve on the prayer team, host team, and production team. I am also a senior at Liberty University.

Homescape Pros

In 2011, Ken Williams formed Homescape Pros right here in his hometown of Ringgold, Georgia. With a degree in Horticulture and over 30 years of landscaping and greenhouse experience, Ken is a natural at creating landscape designs to fit any space and budget. So, it didn’t take long for the locals to discover Ken and the Homescape Pros team and support this local business.

Seven years ago in 2016, Ken took on new partners, Mark and Lisa Bradford. As previous customers, these Ringgold residents knew the quality products that Homescape Pros delivered. Mark and Lisa added some welcome dimension to the business with their knowledge and love of the plant/ landscaping industry, as well as their desire to grow the retail side of the business.

The following year, 2017, brought more change and excitement when Ken married Debi Morris, the sister of his lifelong friend. While their lives had taken different paths for many years, fate brought them back

together in a big way! Debi’s love of gardening made this seem like a match made in Heaven.

Now, with the focus of this business partnership, Homescape Pros outgrew its original location on Battlefield Parkway and desperately needed space to expand.

Today, you can visit the Homescape Pros Garden Center and Grilling Company and their knowledgeable staff in their 7,000 square foot facility at 834 Old Mill Road, Ringgold, Georgia (behind the CVS), for all your garden center and landscaping needs.

“Our Garden Center is massive! We offer trees, shrubs, rocks, yard art, pottery, annuals, perennials, and pine straw. We’ve expanded and added a second greenhouse, so stop by and check it out. Also, take a peek inside and maybe get some design ideas from our very own indoor water feature…complete with fish! And, of course, our new facility allows us to stock a wider selection of fountains, garden benches, yard art, etc. to enhance your backyard, and of course, our selection of Kamado Joe and Masterbuilt grills,” said Williams. “Everyone should follow us on Facebook where we share new arrivals and special events like Christmas Open House and the dates for our bi-annual Grill Days in the spring and fall. Grill Days provide you with the opportunity to taste some of the wonderful food you can cook on the Kamado Joe and Masterbuilt grills and give our team the opportunity to say thank you to our customers for making us such a success.”

The Homescape Pros owners and staff are dedicated to their customers and are always looking to expand the unique retail selections their Garden Center offers. They provide quality landscaping and

home improvement services to Ringgold, Georgia, and surrounding areas. They also carry a full line of products from “Fertilome,” including the “5-Step” lawn program and with their convenient email reminders for each step, it’s easy to make your yard stand out above all the others. Homescape Pros can help you transform your outdoor living space into the gathering spot that you can enjoy with your family and friends. Their professional installers will help you with landscape design and installation to enhance the curb appeal of your home or business and make you the envy of your neighbors.

You can visit the Homescape Pros’ website at www.homescapepros.net or call 706-937-5488 to find out how Homescape Pros can help you with any outdoor projects you may have. If you want to turn your backyard into your long-awaited dream yard, look no further than the best landscape company in Ringgold/ Chattanooga area: Homescape Pros.

Caught, Not Taught

by Monica Gambrell

As parents, my husband and I worked hard to impart godly values to our children. We verbalized it, and we tried to be cognizant of teachable moments, but the bulk of what our children learned was caught, not taught. Our family had a few traditions and activities designed to draw our family closer together. One of those activities was time in the mountains—mostly Fort Mountain State Park. Many times, the focus was a leisurely hike, sometimes minigolf or paddleboats,

his hours were, and whether or not he found the work fulfilling.

He seemed fascinated by the man’s responses. I believe he would have talked indefinitely with the stranger if work hadn’t called the man away. For days afterward, David spoke of the man. Years later, my children’s choice for bedtime reading was Gary Paulson’s book The Hatchet. It is more or less a wilderness survival book. This book also stirred David’s fascination with living in the wild. At 30, David’s long-range plan is to homestead. And he’s successfully working toward that goal.

Years of my teaching may not have accomplished as much as just a few moments with this stranger. Our teaching is incredibly important, and should not be ignored. But equally important is the example we live before those whom God has placed in our lives. Without that example our words are hollow and valueless. Who is watching you needing an example of what it means to be a true Christian—to be Christ-like? Someone is. I guarantee it.

sometimes a relaxing picnic. We loved our time in the mountains.

There was a chance meeting on one of those trips that truly impacted my youngest son, David. I can’t remember how old he was—I don’t think he was in middle school yet—when we had the opportunity to speak with a park worker. He didn’t don the typical brown uniform of a ranger, but he was most definitely doing that type of work. David approached the stranger and asked him tons of questions about his work: how varied it was, what

“For I gave you an example, so that you also would do just as I did for you” (John 13:15).

“Nor yet as domineering over those assigned to your care, but by proving to be examples to the flock” (1 Peter 5:3).

Father God, as parents, we desperately hope to produce children who are not only productive contributors to society, but souls ready to face eternity. Due to this desperation, we sometimes talk too much, and do too little. May our lives be shining examples to our children and others. And may we look to You as the foremost example.

Church Activities & Events

Hiwassee Acres

Seated with Christ

March 31 - April 1

900 County Road 950, Calhoun, TN

Lighthouse Church International

Chosen Ministries Morning Worship

Sunday, April 16 | 10AM 8593 Hiwassee St, Charleston, TN

Abba’s House

Chris Tomlin

Thursday, April 13 | 7PM - 10PM 5208 Hixson Pike, Hixson, TN

Omega Center International

2023 Prophetic Summit

Thursday, April 27 - Sunday, April 30 410 Urbane Rd NE, Cleveland, TN

Early Sunday Morning

by Kenneth E. Ware

While the term “Sunday” is not a word found in the Bible, its DNA is interwoven throughout the Gospel narratives. Oftentimes, the four Gospels refer to Sunday as “the first day of the week” (Matt.28:1; Mark 16:2; Luke 24:1; John 20:1). It was on Sunday that Jesus triumphantly rose from the dead. It was on Sunday that Jesus appeared to His disciples and gave them the Great Commission. It was on Sunday that the Triumphal Entry of Jesus into Jerusalem took place. Although every day is the Lord’s Day, it was John who named Sunday “the Lord’s Day” (Rev.1:10). However, something miraculous took place on this day nearly 2000 years ago. Jesus victoriously defeated death through His miraculous resurrection and appeared to Mary Magdalene and other woman who followed Him during His earthly ministry. Nevertheless, a radical change took place in Mary Magdalene’s life. Upon witnessing an empty tomb, Mary Magdalene learned to put Jesus first.

I. A Resurrected Christ — Mary Magdalene was among the last ones at the crucifixion and burial site of Jesus Christ. She put Jesus first as Lord of her life. A) She was the first to visit the empty tomb of Jesus Christ while it was still dark (John 20:1). B) She was the first to see the stone rolled away (John 20:1). C) She was the first to tell of the empty tomb of Jesus Christ to Peter and John (John 20:2ff). D) She was the first to witness the resurrection appearance by Jesus Christ (Mk.16:9; John 20:11-18). E) She was the first to be commissioned by Jesus Christ after His resurrection (John 20:17). F) She was the first to share the good news to the disciples as an eyewitness of the resurrected Lord (John 20:18). Now, all these things took place early Sunday morning. Mary put Jesus first in her life. The question is, does Jesus have first place in your life? Is He Lord of your life? Do you rise early Sunday morning in search of Jesus? Put Jesus first today.

II. A Radical Change — Much like you and me today, Mary Magdalene had a gloomy past but a gracious present and a glorious future. She was not perfect before God,

but she made peace with God. Mary’s life was radically transformed by the victorious and powerful resurrection of Jesus Christ. In John 20:16-18, she has a new focus (Magdalene reps her past life, Mary reps her new life (v.16) she had a new faith (v.17), a new family (v.17), and a new fire (v.18). Mary’s life was radically transformed by the good news of Jesus Christ. Has your life been transformed by the good news of Jesus Christ?

Early Sunday Morning

With a crown of thorns on His head, Blood flowed down past His thighs; They hung Him high, With His arms stretched wide; Splinters in His back, Up and down the cross He would slide; A Roman soldier grabbed a spear, And stuck Him in His side; Forthwith came blood and water, Gushing out from His side; He bowed His head and gave up the Spirit, For you and me He died; With His body in a borrowed tomb, His body would lie;

But Early Sunday Morning, From the grave He did rise.

Kenneth E. Ware, M.M., M.A.B.S., M. Div. is a husband, father, pastor of New Scholar Avenue Baptist Church, and graduate of Temple Baptist Seminary. Pastor Ware is also a Christian writer and an Expository Bible Teacher at Samford University Ministry Training Institute in Chattanooga, Tennessee.

A Lifelong Relationship

by Janise Copeman

Every day when we read God’s Word, it can be a love letter to us as He talks with us and shares special moments. The spoken Word becomes alive and a daily, intimate walk with our savior! Those precious times are priceless. Our relationship with the Lord is an ongoing love story that if not nurtured, can become stagnant, just like our relationships or friendships can become. The Lord cares and is so involved with every aspect of our lives if only we allow Him to be the center of each and every one of them. That is the key!

A Lifelong Relationship: Marriage

Marriage for example, is a covenant that is not to be taken lightly. The Lord takes it seriously and it should not be rushed into hurriedly. “Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh” (Gen. 2:24).

Since we live in such a physical world, we are constantly bombarded by what the world thinks the perfect mate should be—money, looks, compatibility, etc.—that we may leave out the main ingredient of seeking the Lord first. We need to pray for Him to lead and guide us to who He desires for us, to be a team with and glorify the Lord in it all.

He has the big picture, plan, and purpose to serve the Lord together. That’s why it is vital to be led by the Spirit in all things, especially lifelong decisions. The Spirit will help us find the one to walk together with, work together for God’s kingdom, raise a Godly family together, etc. When the foundation is not stable or built on the Lord, it is never a wise choice.

To Be Equally Yoked: Believer’s Together vs. Nonbelievers

The Lord knows us intricately, and the one He has for us will partner with our own strengths and weaknesses to complement and work together for the kingdom and His divine purpose.

“Do not be deceived: ‘Bad company ruins good morals’” (1 Cor. 15:33).

“Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others” (Phil. 2:3-4).

“Do two walk together, unless they have agreed to meet” (Amos 3:3).

Building a Godly Marriage

• Build on the Word of God

• Spiritual fellowship

• Pray together

• Be thankful

• Understand it is okay to disagree

• Learn to forgive

• Understand flaws and all (unconditional love)

• Develop good communication skills

• Compliment and build-up, edify each other

• Cultivate intimacy, date nights, nurture

Let us, with the Lord’s help, treat each other the way we would want to be treated. Be the person you would want to be married to.

Janise Copeman lives in Trion,Georgia and she is blessed to be married to her soulmate. She enjoys reading, writing, and encouraging others by spreading joy and love in the Lord.

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He Rose

by Judy Hood

I don’t know how you did it

I don’t know how you felt

But when I think about it

My heart just wants to melt

So tortured sliced you paid the price

The guards didn’t even think twice

They just tortured some more and laughed with glee

And to think you did it all for me

You carried that cross up Calvary’s hill

To think what you went through gives me a chill

They drove those nails through your hands and feet

You looked at them lovingly with eyes so sweet

They thought they had killed you as the thunder roared

They were not aware of what was in store

They laid you in a tomb as they made fun

Three days later Satan cringed as you rose from the dead and won

The Darkness of Discouragement

by Dr. Alan Hix

Have you ever had one of those days when everything seemed to be going right? It seems that the sun is shining bright in every area of your life, and you think to yourself, “This just can’t get any better!” Then at the close of the day, someone complains or criticizes you about something. All of a sudden, your world is turned into darkness, and the multiple successes of the day are lost in the shadow of one cross word or mistake.

Matthew 3:13-17 tells us that when Jesus emerges from the water at his baptism, a voice from heaven proclaims, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.” This is surely what prompts John the Baptist to declare, “Look, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!” (John 1:29)

We see a different side of John in Matthew 11:2-3. 2 Now when John heard in prison what the Christ was doing, he sent a message through his disciples 3 and asked him, “Are you the one who is to come, or should we expect someone else?”

This question is a far cry from the confident declaration John made earlier. We might wonder what caused John to entertain questions about Jesus’ identity? The answer is found at the beginning of verse 2: “Now when John heard in prison. . .”

Back in Chapter 3, John was at the height of his popularity as crowds were coming to hear his message and be baptized. However, John’s criticism of Herod’s marriage to his brother’s wife eventually resulted in his being thrown in prison. Now alone in a dark cell, John begins to look back and wonder if he missed something. Needing reassurance, he sends disciples to Jesus to ask him if he is “the one who is to come.”

Nothing has changed about Jesus since his baptism. What has changed is John’s perspective. There are no crowds filled with joyous excitement in his prison cell. Alone and facing an uncertain future, John is discouraged.

I came across an article that identifies three underlying causes that lead to discouragement: 1) a lack of confidence in ourselves, 2) a lack of confidence in God, and 3) a lack of hope for the future. All three of these appear to be present in John’s situation.

Let’s look at Jesus’ response. 4 Go and report to John what you hear and see: 5 The blind receive their sight, the lame walk, those with leprosy are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the poor are told the good news.

Here, and in the verses that follow, Jesus does two things in response to John’s question. He first reassures John that he was right in recognizing Jesus as the “Lamb of God” by describing the works he has been doing. He then goes on to praise John to the crowd. There is no censure or criticism of John because of his doubts. What Jesus does is reorient John’s viewpoint. John was looking at things from the context of a prison cell. Jesus responds by showing him God’s perspective. While the darkness of John’s cell caused him to wonder about both himself and Jesus, Jesus shines his light upon the situation by declaring that both he and John are doing exactly what God sent them to do.

So, the next time the darkness of discouragement comes knocking at your door, ask God to shine his light on your situation, so that you can see through his eyes and not your own.

About The Author

Dr. Alan Hix is an Associate Professor of Christian Studies at Shorter University. In addition to being and educator, he has served churches as a pastor, been involved in mission trips to Africa, Canada, and Alaska, and participated in archaeological excavations in Israel for several years.

The Fields

by Charles Finney

“Say not ye, there are yet four months, and then cometh harvest? Behold, I say unto you, lift up your eyes, and look on the fields; for they are white already to harvest” (John 4:35).

My grandpa was a simple man, but his wisdom was immeasurable. He lived on a farm with three fields that he tended to with great care—one for corn, one for hay, and one for wheat. He taught me the value of hard work and the importance of taking care of the land. He would always start his day with a prayer before he went out to his fields, asking God to bless the land and the crops.

But Grandpa wasn’t the only one with a green thumb in the family. My grandma had her own three “fields”—a garden, a field of flowers, and her children. She would spend hours in her garden, planting and tending to her vegetables, always with

a smile on her face. She would tell me stories of how she would use the vegetables in her cooking, making the most delicious meals for the family. And like Grandpa, she would also start her day with a prayer, thanking God for the beauty of nature and the bounty of her garden.

The flower field was her pride and joy, with rows and rows of different colored flowers creating a beautiful tapestry that would change with the seasons. And, of course, her children were her greatest accomplishment. She raised them with love and care, instilling in them the same values that Grandpa had taught me.

But there was one field that Grandpa and Grandma shared equally—their love for the church. They would often be found sitting in the front row, singing hymns with all their hearts, and listening attentively to the sermons. Their faith was a constant source of inspiration for the whole family, and their devotion to God’s Word was evident in the way they lived their lives.

Grandpa and Grandma were a perfect pair, each with their own unique skills and passions, but united in their love for the land, their family, and their church. They would often work side by side, Grandpa in his fields and Grandma in her garden, but always taking breaks to admire each other’s work, share a laugh, and pray together.

I have many fond memories of those days on the farm, learning from my Grandpa and Grandma. Their wisdom, love for the land and their family, and devotion to their faith has stayed with me throughout my life and has shaped me into the person I am today. I will always be grateful for the lessons they taught me, in the fields, in life, and in faith.

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Celebration Carrot Cake

This carrot cake recipe makes a perfect Easter celebration treat! If you share this cake with your family members, friends or church community this month, share your thoughts with us on Facebook at Goodnews CM.

Ingredients

• 2 cups of carrots (grated)

• ½ cup of coconut oil (melted)

• 1 cup of cane sugar

• 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract

• 1 cup of milk (or non-dairy alternative)

• ½ cup of applesauce

• 1 teaspoon of salt

• ½ teaspoon of nutmeg

• 3 teaspoons of cinnamon

• 1 teaspoon of baking soda

• 3 teaspoons of baking powder

• 2 ¼ cups of all-purpose flour (or gluten-free alternative)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350 F and line a baking pan with parchment paper.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.

3. In a separate mixing bowl, combine the applesauce, milk, vanilla extract, sugar, and oil.

4. Mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients.

5. Fold in the grated carrots and stir until combined.

6. Bake for 35 minutes.

7. Let the cake cool completely and add your favorite frosting!

Draw Near to God

by Dr. Bobby Sneed

James, the half brother of Jesus, tells us in Chapter 4, Verse 8, “Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded.” The first sentence of this verse is a great encouragement that if we desire a closer relationship with God, we only need to pursue Him since God is already pursuing us. However, it could be easily overlooked that the second sentence of this passage tells us the requirement to draw near.

Getting closer with God requires sacrifice. We must abandon our sins and be cleansed, so that we can approach Him. Specifically we are told to cleanse our hands (we are sinners) and purify our hearts (because we are double minded). This is no light task because we must acknowledge our sinfulness, confess our faults to God and repent (turn away) from these sins to be cleansed. Our purification requires fleeing from our sins, never to return, in order to turn toward God with the purpose of drawing near to Him.

The problem arises when we realize that while we love God, we also love our sins. Thus, we are double minded. In truth, there are sins we will readily confess with the full intention of never returning to fail God, but there are also sins that reside in the innermost sanctum of our being that we are either reluctant or refuse to confess. To draw near to God requires complete abandonment of anything and everything that is not pleasing to Him. We are instructed, “Be holy, for I am holy.”

Good News! The Word tells us, “If we will confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us of our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” Drawing near to God requires us, by the power of the Holy Spirit, to recognize, confess, and repent our sin. Then God, in the infinitude

of His love and grace, does forgive us and draws near because our relationship is made right in His grace. In other words, we are made righteous not by what we have done but because of what He accomplished on the cross. So, remember, we can never be close to God while reveling in our sin. Our relationship with God suffers because of our unfaithfulness. He is always faithful.

What is keeping you from drawing near to God today? What sin(s) have you attempted to keep hidden that remain unconfessed? Remember, He knows you and looks even at the intentions of your heart. To draw near to God today, we must cleanse our hands and purify our hearts. I pray that you will be encouraged to take a closer and more honest look into what sins remain in your life and that by the power of God’s Spirit you will be cleansed and purified, that your walk will be closer than ever with our Lord! Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.

Dr. Bobby Sneed is the pastor of Deep Springs Baptist Church. His greatest desire is that all will experience the peace, hope and love of the Father made possible by faith in the Son, Jesus Christ.

God’s Plan and the Single Christian

by Matt Jensen

Singleness is hard. There’s the pain of not knowing if you’ll ever meet someone or be content with singleness. There’s the pain of many unmet desires, maybe even the pain of confusion. Afterall, if marriage is a godly desire, why would God not fulfill it? Then there’s the pain of not knowing how singleness fits into God’s plan. You’ve heard sermons about God’s task for humanity—be fruitful and multiply. “How, then, can I glorify God as a single? Where may I find comfort?” The Bible answers these two questions. Let’s consider mankind’s task in light of the first and last Adam (1 Cor. 15:44-49; cf. Rom. 5:12-21).

Adam and Eve were given a task which can be summed up as filling and ruling the earth (Gen. 1:28). God made man and woman as sexual beings. In the context of marriage, man and woman were created to come together and bear children, filling the earth with other image bearers. Man and woman were created to rule the earth, subduing it for the glory of God. Had they obeyed God, “the earth would be full of the glory of God as waters cover the sea” (Hab. 2:14). Adam and Eve disobeyed God, however, bringing sin into the world instead. Consequently, this task is fundamentally changed. No longer can procreation fulfill this task, for we are all born in sin (Rom. 5:12-21). We must be born again (Jn. 3:3-8). This brings us to the last Adam.

Jesus is referred to as the last Adam for good reason (1 Cor. 15:44-49). Jesus became true man, sin excepted. As sinless man, he is the perfect image bearer (Heb. 2:17; 4:15). He lived, died, and rose again to represent his people before a holy God. God’s people participate in his life, death, and resurrection through faith. Christ purifies his bride, the church, making her a suitable helper for the glorious task of filling and subduing the earth. Before the fall, Adam and Eve’s children would have been image bearers who properly reflected God. Since the fall, however, everyone is born in sin. There is only one way for sinful man to begin properly reflecting the glory of God—the reconciling and transforming grace of God. Christ is on a global mission to “bring many sons to glory” (Heb. 2:10) through new birth (Jn. 3:3-8). He is adding to, sanctifying, and equipping his church to “proclaim his excellencies” among the nations (1 Pet. 2:9). The task moves forward through proclamation rather than procreation. We are not co-redeemers and Jesus doesn’t need

a helper, but he has freely chosen to include us in this glorious task (Matt. 28:19-21).

“How can I glorify God?” Dear single Christian, know that you don’t need a spouse to glorify God. You can glorify God in your singleness. You are participating in the glorious task of filling the world with those who properly reflect God’s image. That task belongs to the last Adam, and he has freely chosen a helper. Every time someone is born into the kingdom of God, or you witness someone grow in holiness, you are witnessing the last Adam fulfilling the first Adam’s task. As you join, participate, and serve in a biblical, missions-minded church, you are involved in this task.

“Where can I find comfort?” Until Christ comes back, God’s people will suffer (Job 14:1; Lk. 13:1-5; Rom. 8:16-18). Singleness can be unspeakably painful. It’s often a pain that you think others don’t understand. You feel alone. As to his divinity, Christ is your rock (Ps. 18:1-3). As to his humanity, he knows human suffering to a degree that you will never know (Heb. 2:17; 4:18; Gal. 3:13). You are not alone, and you are heading to a land without marriage (Matt. 22:30). The joys of marriage in this life can’t be compared to the joys of the next (1 Cor. 2:9). Marriage in this life is only a small sample of “joy forevermore” in the presence of God (Ps. 16:11), a joy that will be shared by all believers, married or single.

Matt Jensen is a missionary from Reformation Baptist Church in Dalton, Georgia. He and his wife, Danielle, are preparing to move to Thailand soon with their son, Judah. They are also anticipating the birth of another son, Gabriel.