August 2021

Gò0dNews August 2021

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About Us WRITERS

Andrew Lee Beth Penny Caleb Prytherch Dave Adams Eddie Turner Erin Clay Gina Hooker Joel Walker Kyle Blevins Laura Perdue Dr. Ralph Jankins Sandra Gilmore Sheneka Land Tammy P. Stafford Teresa Johnston Tim Marcum Wendy Jenkins

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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,

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GoodNews Christian Magazine is a complimentary, 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!

Disclaimer All of the content in the GoodNews Christian Magazine is for general information and/or use.

Such contents does not constitute advice and should not be relied upon in making (or refraining from making) a decision. Any specific advice or replies to queries in any part of the magazine is the personal opinion of such experts/consultants/persons and is not subscribed to by GoodNews Christian Magazine. The information in GoodNews Christian Magazine is provided on an “AS IS” basis, and all warranties, expressed or implied of any kind, regarding any matter pertaining to any information, advice or replies are disclaimed and excluded. We reserve the right to refuse any advertisement or article we deem inappropriate.

Contents AUGUST 2021

GoodNews from the Pastor’s Desk

6 Caring for the Poor

by Dr. Ralph Jenkins

GoodNews for Kids

8 David’s Adventures

by Sandra Gilmore

GoodNews on Money Matters

10 Want Accountability?

Tell Everybody

by Andrew Lee GoodNews for Men

12 Time to Forgive

by Dave Adams

GoodNews for Women

14 I Would Have Lost Heart

by Wendy Jenkins

GoodNews for Everyone

18 The “House” of Community

by Kyle Blevins

GoodNews for Life

20 Infusion Day

by Tammy P. Stafford

GoodNews Cover Story

22 Buddy’s bar-b-q GoodNews Business Spotlight

24 Kingdom Coffee

by Teresa Johnston

GoodNews for Teens

26 Come Out of The Grave

by Caleb Prytherch

GoodNews for Rejection

28 Place of Belonging

by Sheneka Land

GoodNews for Everyone

30 Adding to God’s Word

by Eddie Turner

GoodNews for Everyone

32 The Grand Finale

6

by Gina Hooker

GoodNews for your Taste Buds

34 Summer Corn Salad

by Tim Marcum

GoodNews for Everyone

36 Judas Ate Too

by Beth Penny

GoodNews for Family

38 It’s Not Wasted Time

by Laura Perdue

GoodNews for Everyone

40 Forgetting What Lies Behind

22

by Joel Walker

GoodNews for Everyone

42 David: A Man After God’s Own Heart

by Erin Clay

38

Gò0dNews from the Pastor’s Desk

Caring for the Poor

“A

by Dr. Ralph Jenkins

nd if you give yourself to the hungry and

If you would take some time and read Isaiah 58, you

satisfy the desire of the afflicted, then your

would see a host of promises made to those who care for

light will rise in darkness and your gloom

the poor and sick. God promises to turn our night into day

will become like midday. And the LORD will continually

and gloom into the light of midday. God promises that

guide you, and satisfy your desire in scorched places, and

when we call on Him, He will hear us. When we cry, He will

give strength to your bones; And you will be like a watered

say, “Here I am.” He will continually guide us, satisfy our

garden, and like a spring of water whose waters do not fail”

desires, and give strength to our bones. If that is not enough,

(Isaiah 58: 10-11).

He will also repair, restore, and raise up all that is broken.

I received a note today from a pastor and dear friend in India. Over the last year, all of our pastors, their families, churches, and our children’s home in India has either had or have Covid-19. They are the poorest of the poor and during this season they cannot provide the food and medicine need for all. We have had the privilege, because of those who give to this ministry, to provide food and medicine for many of the Telegu People.

It has been a tough year, to say the least, for so many—Covid-19, the economy, and schools and churches closed. We have had our social circles collapse around us. It has brought about discouragement and despair for many of us.

I have found that nothing increases my faith, joy, peace,

If you really want to be blessed and have your joy, peace, love, and hope restored—just step out in faith and

and hope more than reaching out to those less fortunate

do it God’s way. Get up, get out, and go find someone you

to help provide for their needs. I am always amazed at the

can help in their time of need. He promised to bless us if

personal satisfaction that comes with giving and caring for

we would.

the poor of this world. In fact, I would say that I may get

God condemns His people in Isaiah 58 for their religious

more out of it than they do. It encourages and compels me

ritual. Our commitment to worship, prayer, and Bible study

to be a better me.

is hugely important. Blessings, encouragement, joy, peace,

Yet, for the Believer there are even greater blessings. The Word of God is filled with promises of blessing when we

restoration and, yes, even revival are found in serving others.

Now, go and be a blessing to someone.

our good work. He promises blessing to those who are good to the poor.

6 // August 2021

About The Author

care for the poor. We honor God and He promises to repay Dr. Ralph W. Jenkins is a native of Rome, Georgia.

He and His wife Tammy have served the Lord in ministry for over 25 years and has pastored several churches. He loves to win souls, preach the gospel, shepherd God’s people, and work on the farm.

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Gò0dNews for Kids

David’s Adventures

T

by Sandra Gilmore

here once was a boy with some sheep, Some rams, and lambs, and ewes.

He tended them tenderly night and day.

He did all that he could do.

Later, he was a boy with a basket, His father told him to carry, To take it to his brothers at the battle site “Go right away, don’t tarry.”

With basket in hand, (full of cheese and bread) He was on a mission.

He obeyed his dad and left right away, Even though he could have gone fishin’!

Now, he was a boy with a sling, Five smooth stones in his pouch.

He remembered when he slayed the lion and the bear.

He braced himself to give the giant a big ouch!

He put the sling in motion, It whirled and twirled above his head, The giant kept on taunting, But he should have stood in dread!

David’s stones launched airborne.

Traveling with great speed, The troops and the crowd were motionless, For nobody believed: This boy with the sheep and the basket Could impact such a great scene, A standoff between a giant and a whole army But God intervened!

8 // August 2021

The stone met its target, right on time.

It was forceful and it hurt.

The giant stopped teasing and taunting, When his face timbered to meet the dirt!

Are you just a boy (or girl) with a basket?

A child without a mission?

Obey the Lord, and do your tasks, Even if you would rather be fishin’!

For as you go, the Lord will go with you.

From sunrise to sunset He is your constant companion.

The best friend you’ve ever met!

You might think your days are boring, Bland, without treat or treasure.

Remember David with his basket of cheese, And you, too, can find adventure!

About The Author

He delivered the basket and found a surprise.

A giant was taunting the troops!

The army was hiding and covering their ears.

While the giant whistled and whooped!

Sandra Gilmore serves the Lord as wife, mom, and encourager, mostly through writing and speaking, occasionally through cooking, rarely through anything athletic and only because of the mercy and grace of Jesus. You can reach her by email: tandsgilmore@yahoo.com or her website www.sandragilmore.org.

Want Accountability?

Tell Everybody MONEY MATTERS

WITH DR. ANDREW LEE Dr. Andrew Lee is professor of English at Lee University. He also serves as a coordinator for Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University. He and his wife Esmerelda have three children.

I

’ll tell you a secret: I’ve been using the Noom weight loss system for a few months now and have dropped nearly twenty pounds so far (glory to God). Countless experts say it’s critical to share your goals with others to keep yourself accountable and to stay motivated, so here’s hoping they’re right! No matter your goals, by sharing them online or in person with friends and family, you are more likely to be held accountable and to meet your goals. The psychology behind this should be obvious. Once you speak (or type) your goals and intentions into existence, they instantly become “real” by being heard and acknowledged by others who will usually offer encouragement and support to spur you on toward fulfilling your goals and following through on your intentions. More importantly, we now feel the pressure much more intensely to continue moving toward success in order not to look like a failure or quitter in the eyes of those who are watching to see whether we were determined and disciplined enough to do what we said we would do.

Let’s apply these ideas to financial goals. If one of your goals is to reduce debts and save money for emergencies, you would be wise to share these goals with people whom you believe would support you in your efforts. Use wisdom here, and perhaps avoid sharing your goals with those whose financial habits are worse than yours since they may end up trying to discourage or mock your plans.

Furthermore, get comfortable telling family and friends so they can expect to see changes in your spending and saving habits. For example, if you’re invited to dinner at an expensive restaurant that will jeopardize your monthly financial goals, you might instead offer to meet up with your

10 // August 2021

friend group later that evening after dinner for board games or karaoke. If these people are really your friends, they will respect your financial discipline and understand that your goals are a priority. By sharing your goals aloud, your friends can encourage you and be understanding in these types of situations.

Sharing goals with others can also lead to pleasant surprises. For instance, most of us are aware of the “hot” real estate market we are currently experiencing. If you are trying to buy or sell a home right now, it would certainly help to share your goals with numerous people. You never know whether someone may know someone who is looking to buy or sell a home, which may lead to you realizing your goal. But if you keep your goals to yourself, people can’t help you. So, what stops us from telling others about our goals and plans and dreams? I think it usually comes down to fear—fear of being told our goals are unachievable and unrealistic or unimportant; fear of failing to reach our goals and having everyone think of us as a loser or a quitter or a hopeless dreamer. Ironically, one of the reasons we might choose to keep our goals to ourselves is precisely because we fear some of our friends and family might actually encourage us and offer to help us, which means we now must get “serious” and actually put forth extra effort and dedication to reach these goals (when in reality, we may have been planning subconsciously to quit pursuing this goal after yet another half-hearted effort). Proverbs 13:12 tells us, “Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life.” Start sharing your goals and dreams with others. The longer you wait, the longer your hope may be deferred.

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Gò0dNews for Men

Time to Forgive

I

by Dave Adams

t’s time to forgive one another…just like Tiny Tim did.

“God Bless us, everyone.” That is one of the most

remembered phrases in the story, A Christmas Carol,

Jesus admitted, “Yes, this woman is guilty,” and in a brilliant move to unmask the true condition of their hearts, adds “he who is without sin, cast the first stone.” One by

about Ebenezer Scrooge. In the story, a man who was very

one the men dropped their stones and walked away, starting

indifferent to his fellow man came to understand the joys

with the oldest. The oldest representing the one who had

of love and forgiveness. None of us want to be called a

the most sin. Jesus turned to the woman and said where are

Scrooge, but it is a lesson we all could learn to some extent,

your accusers? The woman said they are not here. “Then

especially now.

neither do I condemn you,” Jesus declared. “Go now and

We live in a time when there is tremendous judgement and polarization in our society. Today, we are being asked

leave your life of sin.” Caught in the very act, Jesus is willing to forgive those who truly repent.

to pick a side. Jesus warns us not to judge one another and to “love one another.” In John 13:34, Jesus said, “A new commandment I give to you, that is to love one another as I have loved you.” Jesus also said, “the world will know you are my disciples by the love you show one for another” (John 13:35).

Jesus was speaking at a time when there was tremendous judgement of people because of their heritage. Jesus shares with us the story of the Good Samaritan. To some in that day, the term “Good Samaritan” would have been heresy. Samaritans were considered ritually unclean. They had intermarried with non-Jews and some had honored foreign gods.

Jesus used examples of the day to demonstrate love, forgiveness and restoration. It is

Do you need more examples? Jesus weeping over

amazing that Jesus would have used a race of people who

Jerusalem—a city that kills prophets—and going to the cross

had worshiped other Gods. In this, Jesus is saying that

to die for sinners.

forgiveness and restoration is essential in a Christian’s life.

Jesus does warn not to keep sinning. This is exemplified

Is it going to take a visit from the ghost of Christmas past before we get the message? We as Christians, need to

in the story of the woman caught in the act of adultery.

exemplify the grace and compassion of forgiveness. We also

In John 8:1, the religious leaders of the day used the law

need to pray about how to “walk the walk” in this stormy

to trip up Jesus. They seized a woman caught in adultery

reality in which we live.

execution of sentence. Stone her and do it now!

12 // August 2021

About The Author

and threw her at the feet of Jesus, demanding immediate Dave Adams served as a pastor for two years in Bend, Oregon.

Adams is licensed through Christian Global Outreach Ministries.

Adams is working on several outreaches, including, The Jesus Network, USA Heartbeat, Operation Eagles Wings, and Back the Blue Radio. Adams has lived in Chattanooga, Tennessee, for more than two years and plans on staying in the south.

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Gò0dNews for Women

I Would Have Lost Heart

O

by Wendy Jenkins

ver the past six months, three women I dearly

goodness is defined as…the best, beauty, gladness, joy, and

love have gone to be with the Lord. One was

to go well with. It is in God’s character to be all these things

family, the other two seemed as such. Each one

and to share all that He is with us.

had a unique impact on my life. My mother-in-law passed

All that God is, is ours. How do we know this? Because

in December. She was steadfast and honorable. She taught

He gave us Jesus. Jesus tells us that He is “the good [there’s

me much about living an upright, honest life. Judy Denton,

our word] shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life

my much-loved friend’s mom, passed in April. She was an

for the sheep” (John 10:11). We can know with certainty that

overcomer. She showed me the value of staying with Jesus

God is good because He gave His all for us. If He will not

even when He seems far away. Nanalee Brooks was a member of the church Donnie pastored for eight years. She passed in May. She was gentle and kind. She befriended anyone that came into her path. She was always gracious and taught me the difference a kind word can have during an ordinary day.

To have had the privilege of knowing these ladies was evidence of God’s goodness in my life. He did not have to place me in Bobbie Jenkins family, but out of His goodness, He did.

Nor did He have to give me a cherished friendship that introduced me to the Denton crew, but out of His goodness, He did. He did not have to give us eight years with Nanalee and the wonderful people of New

withhold His one and only Son, is there anything He would

Union, but out of His goodness, He did. Not only was I an

withhold? Do you know Jesus? He knows you and has a

eyewitness to their lives, but through their lives, I was (and

distinct plan for your life. All that He is, is yours for the

am) an eyewitness to the sheer goodness of God.

asking. You can trust Him.

When I think of His goodness, I often think in terms of

These days, because of these three women, I have

material blessings—how He has helped me or what He has

started looking for God’s goodness not only in what He

done for me. Recently, the meaning has taken on a deeper

does, but who He is in others. I can say wholeheartedly, “I

significance. He does, indeed, give to us, do for us and is

would have lost heart, unless I had believed that I would

an “ever present help” at all times (Psalm 46:1). But His

see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living”

goodness is much richer than that. He does not just do good,

(Psalm 27:13).

never changes. According to Strong’s Concordance, His

14 // August 2021

About The Author

He is good. It is part of His character, and His character Wendy Jenkins is a pastor’s wife, a mom to a college graduate, and a momma to their miniature long haired chihuahua, Rosie.

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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

16 // August 2021

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 Mount Pisgah 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 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

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

The “House” of Community hen you think of the word “community,” what do you think of? You might think of community as a place where people live together, or on a more spiritual level. You might think of community as a feeling of fellowship with others. Any way you think of it, a sense of community brings with it a sense of belonging and purpose.

I have pursued many different paths recently around my own personal development and writing, even selfexposure. We hear or read stories all the time about how celebrities, athletes, or any other version of a successful person achieves all of their accomplishments, yet still find themselves missing something. While there are multiple elements of a healthy and fulfilled life— spiritual health being one of them—a sense of belonging and purpose will always be one of the deepest needs that human beings have.

So, is this sense of belonging something that just happens to us if we get lucky or could we have a hand in this? I believe that we can certainly influence either the joining of or the creation of a place for ourselves and others. A starting point could be to look at the structure of community almost like the structure of a house—as that might illustrate why we have such a great need of it. Just like a house, you cannot build on your community without a predecessor element. Take the framing for example. You cannot set the frame without the foundation. You cannot sheetrock and finish without the frame. Community is the same way, and I believe looking at community as a goal in our lives can get us on the path of never being without it.

The foundation must be your own spiritual and emotional health. As we think of community ultimately involving others, your individual health is crucial in being able to join in, create, and even enhance existing communities. One way the Word teaches us we can be healthy in this way is by sharing our sins or our needs with one another (James 5:16) and with God. As we do this, we become healthier and empowered—unlocking the power to provide that for others. That becomes the frame of our house. Proverbs 27:17 says, “As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens another.” This is the beginning of fellowship.

18 // August 2021

Next, are the functional pieces of the house. Think of the electrical, the insulation, and the plumbing as we continue working toward a complete house (or fulfilled sense of community). Why have a healthy foundation? Why be able to connect with others? As we answer for ourselves, we begin to work up to the real function of community: to improve the world we live in. As we become healthy and help others

become healthy, we can expand on that. As Proverbs 31:8-9 teaches us, we should “Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves.” God calls us into places of need so that we may work as a body to fill those needs as He fills ours.

Now we begin to finish our house. Think of the fun stuff like flooring, paint, windows and so on. This equates to doing enjoyable things with community like sports, activities, book clubs, sharing music and so on. We begin to turn back inward for a deep sense of connection, not only to these new people but with God as we feel that deeper sense of fulfillment. This is the house that community built. While each house may look a little different, we are united in this structure and there is community even there.

About The Author

W

by Kyle Blevins

Kyle Blevins is a husband and a father of three boys. He enjoys connecting with the world through skateboarding and music. Apart from his day job, he is a freelance writer and aspiring author. You can follow his work at iamredirected.com.

Church Activities & Events Calvary Memorial Baptist Church

Vernon Greeson’s Gospel Music Explosion Concert Saturday, August 14 | 6:00PM 518 Hwy 41, Ringgold, Georgia 30736

Abba’s House

The Encounter Tour

Sunday, August 22 | 7:00PM - 9:30PM 5208 Hixson Pike, Hixson, TN 37343

Calvary Memorial Baptist Church Karen Peck & New River Friday, August 27 | 7:00PM 518 US-41, Ringgold, GA

Johnston Woods

International Youth Camp

Friday, August 27 – Monday, August 30 298 Brymer Creek Rd, McDonald, TN 37353

Gò0dNews for Life

Infusion Day

T

by Tammy P. Stafford

raffic was horrible on I-75 this morning.

“pump” into you. You must work it out for

A northbound accident slowed both

yourself—you and Jesus.

sides of the interstate from a crawl to a

The human body heals physically from the

stop. The sight of the wreckage left Steve and I

inside out. Jesus’ Spirit works in us the same

nauseous. The

way. Once we accept Jesus, He begins a work in

only help I

us from the inside out. Reading His Word, living

could offer

out His Word, singing to Him, praising Him,

was prayer.

worshipping Him, praying and obeying Him are

It’s infusion day. Steve is getting a four-

all ways we can “infuse” ourselves with His gift of love and grace.

Steve gets lab work to check his blood

hour infusion of four

values. They

grams of magnesium.

measure at least

Since his double lung

fifty markers.

transplant, Steve’s magnesium

Every marker has

seems to always be low. I am

a normal value.

sitting in a chair to his right. I

If God drew

cannot get the people involved

bloodwork on my

in the crash off my mind. I hope

soul, I wonder what

they survived. If they met God

He would find. He

today, I hope they knew Jesus.

would probably tell me my value for “reading His

Staring at Steve’s IV pole, I thought how wonderful it

Word” is low or my value for

would be if we could “infuse”

“singing to Him” is low. The

people with Jesus. Simply pop a

Great Physician would most

needle into their veins and pump

likely write me an order for

in His life-saving blood—a complete

an infusion, because I always need a little more Jesus!

transfusion of mercy. I wonder how many would show up to get it. I wish it was that choice that no one can “hook” you up with or 20 // August 2021

About The Author

easy. Accepting the gift of eternal life is a personal

Tammy P. Stafford is an aspiring Christian writer authoring her first book, Labeled by Humanity, Loved

by God, in 2010. She resides in Chatsworth with her husband Steve. They have two daughters and three granddaughters. Follow her on Facebook @Tammy365.

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FEATURED COVER STORY

R

B

uddy’s bar-b-q has been serving Tennesseans for nearly fifty years, specializing in lip-smacking barbeque,

bringing folks together, and plain ol’ southern hospitality. Today, there are nineteen locations spread across the state of Tennessee.

The East Ridge location is the first Buddy’s in the greater Chattanooga area and is located on Exit 1 at 619 Camp Jordan Parkway. Two other locations in the area include, 678 Paul Huff Parkway NW in

Cleveland and 568 Northgate Mall Drive in Hixon.

The iconic Knoxville restaurant first opened in 1972 by Buddy Smothers and his wife, LaMuriel.

Her original recipes are still on the menu. Buddy’s bar-b-q is famous for offering fresh hickory-smoked barbeque, chicken, and tender ribs, along with hearty baked beans, fresh coleslaw, hush puppies, potato salad and delicious desserts, including hot fudge cake, lemon icebox pies and milk shakes.

Word spread fast from the 1982 World’s Fair as people began to know Buddy’s as a Tennessee barbeque tradition. Buddy Smothers was recognized as Restaurateur of the Year and was elected President of the Tennessee Restaurant Association. The restaurant association would play a large role in locating Buddy’s to the Chattanooga area.

Darik Dawes serves as the managing partner of the Cleveland, East Ridge, and Hixson Buddy’s bar-b-q locations. Darik and his wife, Deanne, along with parents David and Shelly, own the Mainstay Suites hotel in East Brainerd. The Dawes family are part owners in two other hotels, the Marriott Springhill Suites in Ooltewah and the Hilton Homewood Suites in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.

22 // August 2021

Two additional Buddy’s bar-b-q franchisee partners,

“This phenomenal team not only believes in

Greg and Kim Adkins, also joined the Dawes in the

southern hospitality; we live it each day. I know Buddy

ownership group of two hotels. The Adkins-duo are

would be proud that his passion for the restaurant

from Nashville and are partial owners of the popular

industry lives on and continues to bring folks together,”

restaurant, Blue Moon Waterfront Grille in Nashville.

said Mark Lemoncelli, Buddy’s bar-b-q CEO.

Originally the partners met through the Tennessee

Supreme Stegall serves as the general manager in

Hospitality Association. Darik, Greg and Ken Maples

East Ridge. “We are successful because of the people

were all part of leadership of the statewide restaurant/

we bring together. This starts and finishes with our

hotel association.

employees sharing Buddy’s legacy, fresh food and

Ken Maples, longtime Buddy’s bar-b-q franchisee in Sevierville and former board member, suggested

southern hospitality,” said Darik Dawes.

Buddy’s bar-b-q offers dine-in and both indoor and

a franchise group expansion. Ken Maples and Allen

outdoor seating. Buddy’s has a drive-through window

Newton, who round out the local Buddy’s partnership,

and offers delivery options. With its own app, guests

have owned their Buddy’s bar-b-q Sevierville location

have as many convenient ordering choices as possible.

for more than a decade.

Open daily from 11:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m., family meal

“The Buddy’s philosophy holds as true today as it

deals and set-up service for events are options. Join the

did almost fifty years ago, to treat our customers as if

Buddy’s family

they are family,” said Maples. “This is what attracted us

tradition and

to join the Buddy’s team and bring it here together.”

let us take care

Allen Newton serves as Executive Director of the Sevier County Economic Development Council.

of any need you

R

might have.

goodnewscm.com // 23

Gò0dNews Business Spotlight

Kingdom Coffee

K

by Teresa Johnston

ingdom Coffee began long before May 11, 2021.

I recall years ago, when Gary was in elementary school people would ask, “What do you want to be

when you grow up?” He would always answer, “I want to own my own restaurant someday.”

At sixteen, Gary started working at a Wendy’s just down the street. It started as a summer job but he enjoyed it so much he made a career of it. A few years ago, a new Chickfil-A opened and Gary decided to apply. While working at Chick-fil-A, he felt an impression from God to help a lady we knew from church with her coffee shop. He would go to the coffee shop on his off days and sometimes before or after his shift at Chick-fil-A to volunteer for her. There he learned about making all of the specialty coffee drinks and the ins and outs of owning a business.

Covid-19 hit and he helped her to close temporarily— reopening with curbside and online app orders. During this time, Gary found a restaurant that had closed down and the contents were listed for sale. He made an offer and soon opened a new location for our friend’s coffee shop.

The building’s rent was very expensive for a coffee shop but Gary kept giving it a try. During his time there, Gary kept hearing the Lord impress on him to rebrand the coffee shop as something that would reflect His Kingdom.

After a few months of being in business, we finally approached the owner and asked if he could be released from the lease. The owner agreed. Honestly, we had no idea what the Lord had in store for us. We just kept trusting and believing for greater things.

During March of 2021, we found what is now known as Kingdom Coffee. We feel that the restaurant is more than just a coffee shop, but a ministry to the community. We truly feel so blessed to be here and serve this great area!

Kingdom Coffee is open Monday-Friday 6:30 a.m.-4 p.m.

and Saturdays 9 a.m.-2 p.m. We serve a variety of items. For non-coffee drinkers, we offer sweet and unsweet tea (flavors such as blackberry, peach, or raspberry can be added). We also have frozen and iced lemonade—one fan favorite is

24 // August 2021

our strawberry rose lemonade. We also have options for breakfast, which include everything bagels with cream cheese, the avocado bagel with avocado smash, parmesan cheese and tomato, fruit cups, parfaits, and of course a variety of pastries which include donuts, cinnamon rolls, muffins, scones, brownies and much more. For lunch we have a chicken club wrap, barbeque ranch wrap, and chicken salad sandwiches. We also offer a cobb salad and market salad served with grilled chicken. We have catering options available but we do require advance notice for larger orders.

“Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men…You are serving the Lord Christ” (Colossians 3:23-24).

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Gò0dNews for Teens

Come Out of The Grave

S

by Caleb Prytherch

orrow and sadness are emotions that all of us face or

So, Jesus calls Lazarus to come out of the grave and

have faced in our lives. We go through hard times, we

Lazarus comes out alive and well! Jesus had just performed

lose people we love, and many other circumstances

another great miracle. In the later part of Verse 44, Jesus

that can cause us to feel sad. I do not necessarily believe

says to them to “Take off the grave clothes, and let him go.”

that any person likes to feel sad; however, I have found that

I believe that this passage is so important for us to take

many times people allow their sadness to overtake their joy

ahold of. No matter what you have gone through, you are

in their lives. I want to remind you that if you are dealing

not meant to stay in that place of sorrow for the rest of your

with a difficult circumstance, it is okay to feel sad. However,

life. You are not called to be bound by the “grave clothes”

you must not allow the sadness to stay in your life forever.

forever, because God is greater than the most difficult

In John 11, we read that Jesus’ close friend Lazarus was

circumstances of your life.

sick and then died. When Jesus arrived at Judea, Lazarus had been in the tomb for four days. Jesus talked to Lazarus’ sisters, Martha and Mary, and He was greatly moved.

“When Jesus saw her weeping, and the Jews who had come along with her also weeping, he was deeply moved in spirit and troubled. ‘Where have you laid him?’ he asked. ‘Come and see, Lord,’ they replied. Jesus wept” (John 11:33-35).

While there is a lot that we could learn about in this story, there are a couple of things that I want to specifically focus on. First of all, in this passage we read that Jesus was greatly moved by the death of his dear friend and in Verse 35, it says that “Jesus wept.” What this tells me is that Jesus felt the pain, sorrow, and sadness that Mary and Martha felt. This also

Satan wants you to be bound by sorrow, but eventually,

reminds me that Jesus feels the pain, sorrow, and sadness that

you have got to take the grave clothes off. The enemy wants

all of us feel. He knows where you are, what you are going

to keep reminding you and making you feel like you cannot

through, and He is right there with you through it all. He is

continue on with life, but God came so that you could

not some kind of robot or inanimate object—He is real, He

experience new hope, new joy, and new peace. Often times

feels, and He always knows what is happening.

we cling to our grave clothes because they seem in a weird

Secondly, if you continue to read on in this story, Jesus

way “comfortable,” but God has called for us to take them

ordered that the stone be moved from the tomb where

off! Jesus walked out of the grave, He called Lazarus out of

Lazarus was buried. Once the stone was moved, Jesus

the grave, so why do we think that we must stay in it?

prayed to the Father, and then he called forth for Lazarus to

“For his anger lasts only a moment, but his favor lasts a

come out of the grave. “When he had said this, Jesus called

lifetime; weeping may stay for the night, but rejoicing comes

in a loud voice, “Lazarus, come out!” The dead man came

in the morning” (Psalm 30:5).

cloth around his face. Jesus said to them, ‘Take off the grave clothes and let him go’” (John 11:43-44).

26 // August 2021

About The Author

out, his hands and feet wrapped with strips of linen, and a Caleb Prytherch is the student pastor at Heritage Fellowship Church of God in McDonald, Tennessee. He is a graduate of Lee University, holding a Bachelor’s degree in pastoral ministry and a Master’s degree in practical theological studies. He is married to his beautiful wife, Bekah, and together they have a passion to see peoples lives be changed and transformed through the power of Jesus Christ.

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Gò0dNews for Rejection

Place of Belonging

S

by Sheneka Land

he sat in her seat watching the female church members

our search for life-giving environments and relationships.

gathered in the aisle, full of laughter and enjoying

Others struggle with the same rejections and insecurities

camaraderie. She was new, hurting, and in need

that we wrestle with. Sadly, competition, jealousy, and

of healing from deep wounds. She remembered the joys

aloofness are often the by-products of our fear, lack of

of belonging to a community of believers, but things had

confidence, and self-doubt.

unexpectedly changed, leaving her displaced and isolated. She

Nevertheless, there is good news in the midst of

longed to be known and needed in a church community again.

personal pain. Negative experiences that pierce our hearts

She saw the women disperse. One of them was about

can actually prepare and equip us to affirm and empower

to walk past her, so she began to smile, hoping to make a

others who need healthy community. Instead of becoming

connection. The woman gave her a quick side glance and

bitter and fearful, we can become better and fulfilled as we

upon their brief eye contact quickly looked away. Burning

make ourselves available to others. This means we should

tears stung her eyes, and she struggled to hold them back.

Her throat knotted as she felt the stab of rejection. “It’s okay,” she told herself. “I’ll try again later.”

Another week passed. She followed the advice of her mentor and counselor: “Identify yourself. Tell them ways in which you would like to serve and be a part of their community. Stick your neck out.” She took the risk. It did not work. No matter how hard she tried, the lack of response seemed to send clear messages: We do not want anyone new. We do not care to know you because we are satisfied with our clique as it is. We would rather you just move on. You do not fit in here. Now, on top of feeling rejected, she felt stupid and embarrassed by her attempts to become known.

Rejection always feels so personal, doesn’t it? Once it gains a foothold in our lives, it can breed discouragement,

no longer sit and long for an invitation to another table. We

depression, and detachment. Taking the risk to find

can become intentional and create a table ourselves that will

healthy community seems impossible when we have been

provide much-needed community, while inviting others in

disappointed by people that we trusted to embrace, empower

to take a seat alongside us.

and lead us. Further, we are tempted to become victim to

For those of us who are blessed with a loving tribe that

lies: You will never belong at the table again. No one cares about

welcomes us to sit among them, may we never forget that in

your qualifications, giftings, or passions. Just go home and forget

the family of God, there is always room for one more. Make

about community. We begin to feel that we are the exception to

eye contact, smile big, and get to know the newcomer who

participating in and enjoying life with God and His family.

honors your tribe with their presence. Scoot over and grab

So, what do we do when we feel stricken by rejection?

another chair. That “one more” may be the perfect addition

We get up, dust ourselves off and risk vulnerability again,

your tribe needs.

knowing that we may walk into another zone of rejection love and purpose. Once we recognize the reality of human fallibility, the better off we will be as we move forward in

28 // August 2021

About The Author

before we find that sweet space at the table where we find

Sheneka Land is an ordained minister and a graduate of the Pentecostal Theological Seminary. She enjoys speaking and writing and is co-author of From Rejection to Validation (pathwaybookstore.com). Sheneka pursues opportunities in care ministry where she can spread the news of hope and transformation to the suffering. She is mother to four sons whom she homeschooled for twenty-four years. She and her husband, Jon, currently reside in Cleveland, Tennessee. www.thethreadsofgrace.com

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

Adding to God’s Word

I

by Eddie Turner

n the very last chapter of the Bible, God warns us of the severe consequences associated with “adding” to His Word.

“I testify to everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this book: if anyone adds to them, God will add to him the plagues that are written in this book” (Revelation 22:18).

This is a warning that has been heeded over and over during the extremely delicate process of producing new Bible translations. The production of the New International Version (NIV) translation, for example, involved over 100 biblical scholars—each dedicated to maintaining the highest degree of accuracy in their revisions. The text was then meticulously reviewed by the Committee on Bible Translation (CBT), a team of fifteen biblical scholars whose approval ensured that the work was free from agenda, bias, and outside influences.

Further updates to the text required the partnership of these same groups of scholars. Needless to say, the malicious adding of text to the Bible just does not happen.

So, how are we able to add to God’s Word? We do this when we purposefully skew the teaching of the Bible to suit our own desires. While the text does not change, the context in which we share God’s Word gets twisted quite frequently. For instance, concerning the topic of homosexuality, God’s regard to this lifestyle was made very clear in the Old Testament. Jesus, however, is often labeled as having progressed from that mindset and is believed to have been more accepting of the practice. While there are indeed many passages in the New Testament that assure us that this is not the case, omitting them to demonstrate how the Bible actually embraces homosexuality, or any sin for that matter, represents an effort to add to the Bible. My usage of homosexuality in this example is not to set it apart as some mega-sin. In fact, it is looked upon by God with the same aversion as the lies that you and I have told.

Here is another example. During my research for this article, I came across a column written by an individual who taught that Jesus was prone to making the same mistakes we do. The author’s argument included Jesus being fully human as well as his “confession of ignorance” (per the author) about when he would be returning to the earth. So,

30 // August 2021

why was it so important that the author make this case?

After reading the entire article, I concluded that this person wanted others to adopt the belief that the Bible carries no weight in its defining of right and wrong.

As Christians, we are given the task of painting an accurate picture of God for others. You might even say that we serve as book covers for the Bible, which proves itself over and over to be His perfect and flawless instruction for our lives.

Bear in mind that a simple claim contrary to the Bible’s teaching is not necessarily adding to God’s Word. It is when we put our words in God’s mouth that we are adding to His. As we progress toward our day of redemption, we can only expect to see more and more false teaching with the potential to lead God’s precious children astray. Until that day comes, may we continue to focus upon adding to the number of those who will join us into eternity. This number has already been set, of course. It simply has not been reached. How do we know this? Because we are still here.

ourney But it can alsoto seem overwhelming, looking down the long road ahead. You may be asking yourself, how sho An easy step is to put a key foundational piece in place with life insurance. By doing that, it helps ensure t ookWhat like?

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been reproduced with the permission of Life Happens, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping consumers make smart insurance deci their families’ financial futures. Life Happens does not endorse any insurance company, product or advisor. © Life Happens 2018. All rights reser easy step is to put a key foundational piece in place with life insurance. By doing that, it helpssafeguard ensure that

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

The Grand Finale

T

by Gina Hooker

his past July 4th, I went to a firework show

Our Father in Heaven has promised that this world

in my hometown. One beautiful display of

of decay and the battles we fight in our flesh will one

color after another lit up the night sky. Then

day come to an end. I can assure you He will not leave

there was silence and darkness which seemed to last

us expecting more, just as the person who funded

forever. I heard someone say, “You mean that’s it…

the grand firework extravaganza did indeed provide

no grand finale?” I said to that person, “There is

a grand finale. But the real grand finale comes when

always a grand finale…just wait for it, it will come.”

Christ appears in the clouds. Though that day seems to

I knew the organization that had provided this grand

tarry, “just wait for it…it will come.”

illumination for our pleasure would not leave us expecting more! Then I had to ask myself, “Am I looking to the skies for the grandest finale of all time or am I living as though that day will never come?”

Sadly, many Christians have a lack of excitement for the coming of the Lord and have become complacent. Just as the parable how to boil a frog describes, “You cannot place a frog in a pan of boiling water, it will jump out, but you can place a frog in a pan of cool water, and little by little increase the temperature.

The frog then becomes relaxed and complacent in the

“Immediately after the tribulation of those days,

warm steam bath. Once the water begins to boil and

the sun will be darkened and the moon will not

the frog realizes he’s in danger it is too late!”

give its light; the stars will fall from heaven, and the

We are instructed in the manner in which we

powers of the heavens will be shaken. Then the sign

ought to live in 1 Thessalonians 5:5-8. The return of

of the Son of Man will appear in heaven, and then all

Christ is near and may we all become more vigilant

the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see

as The Day approaches. May we live with a renewed

the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with

sense of urgency in our relationships with both God

power and great glory” (Matthew 24:29-30).

so that the day of the Lord will not come upon them as a thief in the night.

32 // August 2021

About The Author

and man. May we be a witness to those who are lost, Gina Hooker RN, Clinical Discipler.

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Gò0dNews for your Taste Buds

Summer Corn Salad

A fresh, healthy, and delicious accompaniment to any summer time picnic or evening cook out—a staple your whole family will enjoy!

by Tim Marcum

Ingredients

Instructions

• 2 ears of fresh corn

1. Cut the corn kernels from ears.

• 2 Roma tomatoes, chopped

2. Toss the corn kernels with the Roma tomatoes, green onions, and jalapeno pepper in a medium sized bowl.

• 2 green onions, thinly sliced • ½ jalapeno pepper, seeded and finely chopped • 2 tablespoons of olive oil

3. Combine olive oil, lime juice, salt and pepper in a small bowl.

• 1 lime, juiced

4. Pour the olive oil mixture over the corn mixture.

• ½ teaspoon of salt

5. Toss and chill.

• ¼ teaspoon of pepper

6. Serve (and watch the smiles appear!)

When you try this recipe at home, or take your own spin on it, take a picture and share it with us on our Facebook community, @GoodNewsChristianMagazine.

34 // August 2021

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

Judas Ate Too

T

by Beth Penny

hroughout time, being called a “Judas” has become the universal symbol for betrayal.

Whenever we hear the word “Judas,” our

mind always goes to the ultimate act of betrayal in history. Judas betrayed Jesus for a mere thirty pieces of silver. Making a lot of assumptions, thirty pieces of silver would be worth only around $200 today.

When Zechariah was sharing God with Israel, He asked to be paid for his work and was rewarded with the measly sum of thirty pieces of silver—already a widely known insult.

About half a century after that, we come to Jesus and His disciples. Just hours before the ultimate betrayal, the disciples are gathering in the upper room to keep themselves safe from the growing danger that was in the streets for believers. They have gathered for what Jesus knows is His last meal with them. Keep in mind, Jesus also knew Judas had already agreed to betray Him. It is important to know that communal meals were eaten at a low table and on the floor, so it was just good manners to wash your feet before eating since sandaled feet were very dirty from the dust of the roads.

Getting ready for this, the disciples were arguing or discussing among themselves who was the best.

Who did Jesus love the most? Now, enter Jesus. In the utmost act of servitude, He washes their feet, even Judas. Ironically, their argument of who was the greatest among them lost all its valor. Jesus showed them a perfect example of humility. He came to them not as a King and someone revered but as a lowly servant. Serving them all, even Judas. Then came the meal, and they ate together, even Judas. Jesus knew—

Jesus not only set the example of humility and serving others for us, but He again showed us the ultimate act of forgiveness. He forgave Judas’s ultimate betrayal and allowed him to eat peacefully. In Matthew 5:43-44, Jesus had already told his followers and disciples, “You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, ‘Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.’” Sometimes wallowing in our sin, we feel unlovable and unforgivable. We feel that our shame is so heavy and dark, that Jesus could never forgive what we have done. Boy, are we wrong. Jesus showed us the ultimate example of forgiveness in that last meal. I am thankful that even Judas ate too.

But Judas ate too.

36 // August 2021

About The Author

and told him that He knew—Judas had betrayed him.

Beth Penny has taught English at Model High School since 1997. There she is also the Yearbook adviser and the Special Education Department Chair.

She and her husband, Chad, have four children.

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Gò0dNews for Family

It’s Not Wasted Time

by Laura Perdue

R

omans 8:28 says, “And we know that in all things

agreed and tried his best to put me in a positive mindset but

God works for the good of those who love him, who

at that moment, all I could think about was “wasted time”

have been called according to his purpose” (NIV).

and still no answers.

Waste: eliminated or discarded as no longer useful or

required after the completion of a process.

Yesterday was one of those days. One of those days when I got wrapped up in my thoughts, my feelings, my

During the remainder of the evening and into the early morning, the Holy Spirit in His soft gentle way reminded me, “Laura, Daughter, nothing you have been through is wasted. I am going to use your and Carston’s story to

emotions—all of it!

To start the day off, I had to make a trip to the imaging center to have my yearly mammogram.

This is only my second year having it done and I will admit I get serious anxiety a few days before and after. Not so much for the procedure itself, but waiting for the results. Some would say it’s a waste of time, but the visit was not “wasted.”

The second doctor’s appointment of the day was an eye appointment for my son with one of the top Neuro-Ophthalmologists in Atlanta.

This visit would take about four hours. At the conclusion of the visit, we hoped to have more answers regarding the reason behind my son’s vision issues, and if anything else could be affecting his walking. We had been waiting over six months to get in with this specific doctor. I left his office

reach so many, do you trust me?” He reminded me of the

feeling frustrated, mad, angry, etc. On my way home, I was

two occasions during my day that He used specific parts of

driving and all in my flesh, I thought, “Man this was just a

my journey with Carston to be able to touch two precious

wasted trip.” I could have saved myself about five hours out

moms. I had an opportunity to step out of my comfort zone

of the day and not heard the same things we have been told

and share a part of my story and pray with these moms.

by our Pediatric Ophthalmologist for the past three years.

You see, these two moms did not need a sermon, they just

I got home around 5 p.m. and was honestly mentally and physically exhausted from the day. I texted with

needed a touch.

So, the next time you catch yourself feeling like the day

someone close to our family and let them know the update

was “wasted time,” look back over the day and see if there

on Carston. I let them know that I know I am supposed to be

was an opportunity that was used to bless someone else.

okay, but that I was not. I was struggling with the findings.

You will quickly realize it was not wasted at all.

okay to not to be okay—that I do not need to feel like I must keep it all together for the sake of those around me. Brian

38 // August 2021

About The Author

Their powerful words of wisdom back to me was that it is My name is Laura Perdue and I am married to my best friend, Brian Perdue. God has truly blessed us both and I could not imagine life without my prince, My promise.

Brian and I reside in Marietta Georgia and serve on the ministry team of Fivestones Church in Canton, Ga.

Gò0dNews

Christian Magazine

Mission Statement:

W

Writer Guidelines:

e believe when people are equipped,

Who: Our writers range from pastors, professors, and

motivated, and passionately engaged in

professional writers to stay at home moms and dads,

living out their faith in Jesus Christ they

business professionals, and others who have a desire to

have the potential to be world changers.

Our mission is to bring people into a dynamic

relationship with Jesus Christ—a relationship that empowers them to see how God can work through individual personalities, situations, and talents.

Christ was an activist, he did not neglect the needs of the people as He brought His message. We strive to encourage everyone to look more like Christ by reaching outside of themselves to serve the needs of others—at home, at school, in communities, and across the world.

goodnewscm.com Phone: 423.478.6484

reach out to people through words of encouragement.

What: We believe that it is important to laugh together, praise each other, encourage one another, and to offer biblical advice. Articles can be directed toward everyone, or from woman to woman, or man to man. We love to share recipes and family traditions as well. We ask that articles be kept to a 500 word maximum. We’d love to hear from you!

Where: Please send submissions to articles.goodnews@gmail.com Why: Because God has not intended for us to just survive. We believe that we are intended to reach out to love and encourage each other. God has brought each of us through tough times, blessed us, and made the “impossible” possible. Let’s, together, share the love of Jesus Christ.

Gò0dNews for Everyone

Forgetting What Lies Behind e love Disney movies in our home—yes, we have bit the bullet and purchased a subscription to Disney+. Our family favorite is The Lion King. In one scene, Rafiki, a crazy and loveable monkey, is speaking with the grown Simba, who knows he needs to come home, but is reluctant to face his past. Rafiki then proceeds to whack Simba in the head with a stick, and Simba says, “What was that for?” Rafiki replies, “It doesn’t matter. It’s in the past.” Then, Rafiki says, regarding the past, “You can either run from it or learn from it.”

The past—whether it is the story of humanity as a whole, of different cultures or nations, or of our own personal experience—is unchangeable. We are unable to go back and change things. Yet, if you are like me, you find yourself constantly looking back at the life you have experienced so far.

When giving his testimony in Philippians Chapter 3, the Apostle Paul says in Verse 13, “…but one thing I do; forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead.” This is a profound statement from Paul, and one that is important for us to apply to our own lives. I can think of at least three ways we need to “forget what lies behind.”

We need to forget past failures.

A vital part of maturing as a person is learning from our mistakes. I do not mean that we forget our past failures to the point where we repeat them, but we can often be so consumed with our past failures that we are gripped by them and allow them to cripple us in our present and future.

Paul was a Pharisee and persecuted the church. He felt he

40 // August 2021

was doing God’s will. However, after he encountered the living Christ on the road to Damascus, he was changed forever. Still, Paul seemed to express guilt over his past when he says in 1 Corinthians 15:9, “For I am the least of the apostles, and not fit to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God.” So, Paul coaches himself to forget his past failures.

Do not be so overcome by your past that you miss out on what God can do through you right now. No past is so bad that God cannot redeem it and use you for His purposes moving forward.

We need to forget past successes.

This may seem strange considering the first point.

However, there are times when we hold on to our successes of the past and we refuse to see what God is doing now.

When speaking of life before Jesus in Galatians Chapter 1, Paul says in Verse 14, that he “was advancing in Judaism beyond many of my contemporaries among countrymen, being more extremely zealous for my ancestral traditions.”

Paul describes himself as a “Hebrew of Hebrews” (Phil. 3:5). As a Pharisee, Paul would have had the respect of his peers. As a follower of Jesus, he suffered greatly. A Pharisee was typically well-off financially. Paul gave all that up to pursue a greater dream. Again, Paul coaches himself to forget what lies behind.

We need to forget and let go of unforgiveness.

At one point in Paul’s ministry, Mark was his companion.

However, we read that Mark chose to abandon Paul and his team, a decision that split Paul and Barnabas (Acts 15:36-41).

But years later, Paul instructed Timothy to “take along Mark and bring him with you, for he is useful to me for service” (2 Timothy 4:11). In the end, Paul chose forgiveness.

Life is hard. There have been and will be moments in our lives where we are mistreated and perhaps even suffer at the hands of others. Satan can use these events to cause bitterness in our hearts. May God grant us the same power to forgive, forget, and let go of those hurtful experiences of our pasts, so we can walk in freedom and love.

About The Author

W

by Joel Walker

Joel Walker lives in Lindale, GA, with his wife, Lauren, of eight years, and their two children, Ethan (6) and Addison (4). He works at WinShape Retreat in Guest Services. His desire and calling on his life is to give as much glory as possible to Jesus Christ by preaching and teaching the Bible.

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

David: A Man After God’s Own Heart

by Erin Clay

I

do not know when I first heard King David referred to as,

scripture is in the Bible. It is learning about who God is

“a man after God’s own heart,” but it resonated with me.

and what He expects from me.

This man lived a life that caught the attention of God at

David had a heart full of love for God. It is what is in

a very young age. He became one of the greatest Kings that

your heart that overflows. In David’s case, the overflow

we read about in the Bible, even though he did not live what

of his heart was singing, playing the harp, dancing, and

many would see as a perfect life.

What about David made him, “a man after God’s own heart”?

The story of David shows that he had a personal relationship with God. He regularly read and meditated on the scriptures. He openly sang, danced, and played music in worship to his God. He also prayed…a lot! It was what was in David’s heart that made his relationship with God so spectacular. He fully loved God with all his heart. He was not ashamed to dance in the streets to celebrate God. David prayed to God. As I examine my own relationship with God, I think about how many times I have gotten discouraged and did not immediately go to God in prayer.

shouting praises for the Lord. When David worshipped

I am reminded of what my husband and I told our kids

God, he really worshipped. He did not just go through the

when they were young—prayer has two parts: talking to

motions. So many times, I feel like I am distracted while

and listening to God. I ask myself, “Do I take the time to

worshipping, and I am not giving God the full attention he

listen to God?”

deserves. Worship must be intentional.

David also spent time in God’s Word. The best way to

I think the story of David’s life captures my attention

get to know someone is to spend time with them. Spending

so well because David gives me hope. He was a man that

time in the scriptures is how we get to know God. Not just

went through hard times and never gave up on God. David

reading, but also examining and learning them. In Psalm

is referred to so many times in the Bible. He led by example

119:11, David wrote, “I have hidden your word in my heart

and is someone that we can admire and learn a lot from.

that I might not sin against you.” It is important to know

You can find the story of David in 1 & 2 Samuel.

what the Bible says. I believe this goes beyond simply the scripture around the verses to understand why the

42 // August 2021

About The Author

learning your favorite Bible verses. It also means learning

My name is Erin Clay, and I am a wife, mom, and stepmom. My husband and I are Sunday school teachers at Calvary Baptist Church. I’ve lived my whole life in Rome, Georgia, and I own the travel blog titled “When In Rome, Georgia.”

Welcome Back to School!

The Catoosa County Chamber of Commerce wishes all of our students, teachers, and administrators a successful school year!

Save the Date!

Showcase Catoosa Business Expo will be held at The Colonnade on Thursday, October 14th from 10-2.

Leadership Catoosa 2021 will Kickoff in September!

For more information about how to be a part of this great community leadership program, please contact Amy Jackson @ 706-965-5201.

Join us for our Catoosa Women's Networking Luncheon with guest speaker Cara Hicks on September 8th @ 11:30 am at the Gateway Business Center. $15 RSVP by 9/3.

For more information, please contact Debbie Hughes at 706-965-5201 or dhughes@catoosachamberofcommerce.com.

A LEGACY OF HEALTHCARE HEALTH FOR LIFE Hamilton Medical Center is celebrating 100 years of excellence in healthcare.

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