December 2021

Gò0dNews December 2021

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About Us WRITERS

Bobby Sneed Brandon Maloney Brian Branam Christina Clevenger Dannette Reeves Danny Hesterly David Beckmann Eddie Turner Dr. Edgardo Salas Filip Brunner Greg Grotewold Jennifer Hastings Jodi Varnado Jonathan Maloney Katie Loveless Kristen West Linda Ray Center Lori Sentell Pam Wattenbarger

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Shane Franks 706-270-2410 Email: dalton.goodnews@gmail.com

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PHOTOGRAPHER Paula Knipp 423-310-4207

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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, lives will be changed.

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Contents DECEMBER 2021

GoodNews from the Pastor’s Desk

6 Old Friends

by Brian Branam

GoodNews for Kids

8 Receiving the Gift

by Danny Hesterly

GoodNews for Seniors

10 Live Your Best Life

This Holiday Season

by Christina Clevenger GoodNews for Men

12 Joy of the Gift

by Bobby Sneed

GoodNews for Women

14 The Best Gift-Giver

by Kristen West

GoodNews for Everyone

18 The Glorious Purpose of Prayer

by Greg Grotewold GoodNews for Life

20 Making Room for Jesus

by Lori Sentell

GoodNews Cover Story

22 CARSTAR Universal of Fort Oglethorpe: James White

by Jodi Varnado

GoodNews for Everyone

26 Prayer Exhaustion

by Eddie Turner

GoodNews from the Physician’s Desk

28 Whiplash and Chiropractic

by Dr. Edgardo Salas

GoodNews for Everyone

30 Burden Bearer

by Katie Loveless

GoodNews for Parents

32 Marking Moments

8

by Jennifer Hastings

GoodNews for your Taste Buds

34 Easy Brownie Trifle

by Pam Wattenbarger

GoodNews for Everyone

36 This Is My Beloved Son

by Jonathan & Brandon Maloney

GoodNews for Everyone

38 Silent Night

by Danette Reeves

GoodNews for Everyone

40 Redeeming The Time

22

by Filip Brunner

GoodNews for Everyone

42 Blessed Are the Balanced

by Linda Ray Center

GoodNews for Everyone

24 Peacemakers

by David Beckmann

42

Gò0dNews from the Pastor’s Desk

Old Friends

T

by Brian Branam

here is a Ben Rector song that celebrates the blessing of

they suffer His wrath and judgment. It is good to know you

having old friends. He says, “You can grow up, make new

are redeemed.

ones, but truth is, there’s nothing like old friends.”

A few months ago, I got a call from an old friend. We worked

together on staff at Ridgecrest Baptist Church in Birmingham, AL. He was traveling through our area and wanted to meet up. What was supposed to be a one-hour lunch turned into an all-afternoon

Jesus has transformed us into a group of people who belong to God, serve God, and bring glory to God as a kingdom of priests.

John reminds us that Jesus is returning and that His return will be visible, vengeful, and victorious. We must be ready!

Maybe it has been a while since you have seen Jesus. Read

conversation. It was good to catch up and reflect on some of the

Revelation 1 and get reacquainted with Him. Be reminded of what

experiences we had together.

He has done for you. It is important for your present and can

I left our conversation encouraged. We cannot return to the

influence your future.

past, but old friends help us to remember. Those reminders are important to our present and can influence our future.

The Last Apostle John was the last living apostle. The rest had been martyred for their faith.

When Jesus was with the apostles, John was the youngest of the twelve. He was one of the three that made up Jesus’ inner circle. At the last supper, it was John who leaned on Jesus’ chest.

Jesus loved all of His disciples, but five times in his gospel, John refers to himself as “the disciple whom Jesus loved.”

But it has been a while, at least fifty years since Jesus’ resurrection and ascension. Life has been difficult for John as persecution is increasing in the Roman Empire. At the time of his writing The Book of Revelation, John is an aged and wounded man, exiled to spend his last days on the isle of Patmos.

Suddenly, as John is in worship on The Lord’s Day, Jesus appears (Revelation 1:9-20). That reunion gave John some important reminders about their relationship.

“To him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by his God and Father—to him be glory and dominion forever and ever!

Amen. ‘Behold, he is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see him, even those who pierced him, and all tribes of the earth will wail on account of him.’ Even so. Amen. ‘I am the Alpha and the Omega,’ says the Lord God, ‘who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty” (Revelation 1:5-8).

The Book of Revelation charts a triumphant but turbulent future for the people of God. These reminders from our resurrected Christ help hold us faithful.

Jesus loves us. That is good to know in a world that is often unlovely nor loving.

Jesus freed us from our sins by His blood. The Book of Revelation reveals the gruesome fate of the rebels of God as

6 // December 2021

Bible Study and Challenge Read Revelation 1 • How does this passage encourage you to praise Jesus?

• How does this passage encourage you to pray today?

• Write out some essential truths about Jesus that this passage teaches us.

Make a journal entry of three things that are discouraging you.

How do the reminders about our relationship with Jesus encourage you? Share with someone this week at least one of those ways that the vision of Jesus in Revelation has encouraged you. Perhaps it will encourage them.

About The Author

blood, and has made us to be a kingdom and priests to serve his

Brian Branam is the Pastor of Liberty Baptist Church, a multi-site church in NW Georgia. For more of his material visit www.FeelMyFaith.com.

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Gò0dNews for Kids

Receiving the Gift

C

by Danny Hesterly

hristmas is all about receiving. “For to us a child is

be the fulfillment of all of God’s promises…what!?! Sidenote:

born, to us a son is given,” (Isaiah 9:6, NIV).

yes, I have been listening to “Mary, Did You Know?” by

I was at a coffee shop with one of my best

Pentatonix. You see, God was giving this little family the

friends last week talking about Christmas (the best time

greatest gift in history. All Mary and Joseph needed to do

of year). I said to him, “You know, Christmas is all about

was receive this wonderful news. Look how Mary responds

receiving.” He didn’t wait a second to say, “Dude, you’re

to the angel, “I am the Lord’s servant. May everything you

crazy!” Maybe my understanding of the Bible is a little

have said about me come true,” (Luke 1:38, NLT).

different, but if you take a moment and look at the passage in Isaiah 9:6, the writer tells us that “a son is given.” So, here’s my big brain thought: since God is the great gift giver, we have the wonderful opportunity to receive this gift.

Mary received this wonderful gift from God with a big, open heart.

Both of my kiddos—one is twelve and the other is ten—have said yes to Jesus being the leader of their lives!

I’m a very happy dad. You see, once we receive God’s wonderful gift of Jesus, God doesn’t stop there. Since God is the great gift giver, He continues to give us love, joy and peace. And as my two kiddos grow in wisdom, I get a front row seat to watch these wonderful gifts be unwrapped in their lives every day.

This is the best time of the year!

Christmas lights hanging from houses, hot cocoa with tiny marshmallows floating on top, and peppermint sticks, but the music is the most special of them all. All of these songs and carols pointing to this one amazing moment in history— the birth of Jesus. You can hear these

My favorite thing about Christmas is watching people

songs played on the radio, in restaurants, in your home, and

open up presents that I have given them. Do you want to

I’m pretty sure in candy stores. You see, God’s great gift is

know a secret? For years I have used my birthday money to

being shared all over the world. That’s amazing!

buy presents for my family and friends (my birthday is ten

Christmas is truly about receiving this great, wonderful

days before Christmas). You see, every gift is intentional and

gift from God—His son Jesus. Because we receive this gift of

guaranteed to bring anyone joy.

love from God, we can share this wonderful Christmas gift

Think about this: when the angel brought the greatest

to the world.

save the world from their sins—this baby boy is Emmanuel (which means “God with us”)—and that this baby boy would

8 // December 2021

About The Author

news ever to Mary, and told her that this baby boy would Danny Hesterly lives in Chattanooga, TN where he spends most of his days in coffee shops helping others discover their part in God’s amazing story.

Danny has two children (12, 10) and has been married to his lovely bride for 17 years.

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Gò0dNews for Seniors

Live Your Best Life This Holiday Season

F

by Christina Clevenger

or many people, the holiday season is a time of celebration and reliving

past traditions. We see Christmas movies on TV, hear carolers singing, peruse all the holiday gift options, but for some people, especially seniors, the holidays can be a time of frustration

and depression.

There are many reasons that people may lapse into the “holiday blues” —illness, injury, frustration with the aging process, loss of a spouse, or just seasonal depression—but what really matters is that you find ways to prevent depression from happening.

With the holiday season in full swing, consider some of the options listed below to help support yourself or your loved ones.

Stop setting unrealistic expectations—It’s easy to want to do everything, but give yourself a break!

It is essential to lower your expectations for the holidays and avoid putting unrealistic pressure on yourself.

Stay active & eat healthy—Try doing something new! Spend time with people who won’t allow you to isolate yourself. Pay careful attention to

of seasonal affective disorder. They are designed to mimic the sun’s rays and boost mental health.

“For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace,” (Isaiah 9:6).

Enjoy this holiday season and enjoy some rest and relaxation with family and friends.

Talk to your Doctor—Ask your physician about using a sun lamp to help overcome the symptoms

10 // December 2021

About The Author

your diet and eat healthy foods.

Christina Clevenger is the Executive Director of Legacy Village of Cleveland.

Erik Gardner – CEO of Volunteer Rid A Pest LLC announces another acquisition.

“We are proud to announce that on October 1st, 2021 Volunteer Rid A Pest has officially merged with Pestaway Corportion and will begin overseeing the day-to-day operation of the business” stated Gardner.

Pestaway founders and owners, Troy and Jeanette Donaldson have experienced health issues and are unable to carry on the operation of the business. Their daughter and son, Joyce and Eddie are retiring to care for their elderly parents.

“Our company has taken over the day-to-day operation of the business and will make certain to serve our new Pestaway customers well!” said Gardner.

“This merger gives our company a stronger reach into McMinn County and solidifies our company as the dominant player in the Athens/McMinn County market!” added Gardner.

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Gò0dNews for Men

Joy of the Gift erry Christmas! What a wonderful time of year when we see beautiful decorations and indulge in savory foods and sugary sweets while gathering with family and friends to celebrate by giving and receiving gifts. Furthermore, who can resist the singing of festive songs (even if you don’t sing, you know humming along counts) while sipping coffee, hot cocoa, and all the other festive hot beverages? Riding through town and seeing all the lights, the stores packed with shoppers, and bells ringing reminds us that joy is a mindset that we just can’t afford to live without.

This is a perfect time to remember the truest reason for this amazing season. The greatest gift ever given is also the most wonderful gift we can ever receive. The joy of the Gift is found by faith in Him. Of whom do I speak? We find the prophet Isaiah in Chapter 6 heralding the coming Messiah when he says, “For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” So, the greatest gift that has ever or will ever be given is the Gift from God who is His Son, Jesus! The greatest Gift that must be received for salvation is this same Jesus!

There are two specific accounts in the New Testament that showcase the joy of receiving the baby Messiah. First, in the Gospel of Luke 2:28-32, we find Simeon who “took Him up in his arms and blessed God and said: ‘Lord, now You are letting Your servant depart in peace, According to Your word; For my eyes have seen Your salvation, Which You have prepared before the face of all peoples, A light to bring revelation to the Gentiles, And the glory of Your people Israel.’”

The second encounter is Anna in Luke 2:36-38, “Now there was one, Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was of a great age, and had lived with a husband seven years from her virginity; and this

12 // December 2021

woman was a widow of about eighty-four years, who did not depart from the temple, but served God with fasting and prayer night and day. And coming in that instant she gave thanks to the Lord, and spoke of Him to all those who looked for redemption in Jerusalem.” Both Simeon and Anna rejoiced in their old age to have lived to see the promised Savior.

Of course, we know that shepherds saw the infant in the humblest of settings. Wise men traveled a great distance to offer gifts to the newborn King and then chose to return to their own homes after being warned in a dream. All received the newborn King with joy and witnessed the miracle of God’s gift to the world.

So, the question is, will you share in their joy this Christmas season? The greatest Gift ever given is the Son of man. The greatest Gift you will ever receive is the Son of God. They are one and the same. Christ came as a baby, lived as a man, defeated death on the cross, overwhelmed the grave in the resurrection, and sits at the right hand of the Father awaiting us for eternity—if we will just receive Him. Jesus is the joy of Christmas!

About The Author

M

by Bobby Sneed

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.

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Gò0dNews for Women

The Best Gift-Giver

W

by Kristen West

ith Christmas close at hand, most of us have

received a gift, use it to serve others…that God may be

completed our gift checklists. The flurry of

glorified through Jesus Christ in everything.”

wrapping and stashing is in process, and

Yet, how many times do we allow fear or doubt to

the anticipation of watching our loved ones open those

influence us to put our gifts on a shelf? How often do we

presents is drawing near.

yield to comparison and, as a result, hesitate to share our gifts because we will not be as good as someone else?

Friend, may I share a vital truth with you? The world does not need another Priscilla Shirer, Pioneer Woman, or Lauren Daigle (to name just a few). It needs YOU—with your unique personality and beautiful gifts to match! And so, God asks you today—If one person would be positively and eternally impacted by you sharing your gifts, would it be worth it?

As we prepare to

Giving gifts is something we all love to do. Why?

celebrate God’s most meaningful gift to us, let us also

Because we are created in God’s image, and He is the

remember that it is because of Jesus’s birth, life, death, and

best gift-giver of all! According to Romans 12:6, “we have

resurrection that we can boldly share our gifts with the

different gifts” given to us by God. Romans 12 goes on to

world! Jesus modeled gift-sharing for us, and the Gospels of

name a few but is by no means a comprehensive list. From

Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John all attest to the various ways

hospitality to speaking, serving to giving, the array of gifts

He served those around Him daily with His gift (Himself).

that God distributes to us is nearly endless!

And, just like parents want to see their children enjoy

Let us follow His example and share our God-given gifts as we look to make the world a better place and

the gifts they have been given, God wants to see His

ultimately glorify our Father in Heaven—the Giver of

children enjoy, embrace, and share the gifts He has given

every good and perfect gift! (James 1:17).

to us. God purposefully chose the gifts He gave to each one

Merry Christmas!

of us. We did not receive them randomly or by chance. He with others. 1 Peter 4:10-11 says, “Just as each one has

14 // December 2021

About The Author

gave them to us intentionally and calls us to share them

Kristen West works at Rock Bridge Community Church with a heart for staff leadership, development, and care. She is a communicator with a passion to inspire, encourage, and challenge others in their daily walk with Christ. She writes and publishes weekly content on her blog at kristen-west.com.

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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 // December 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

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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) 478-6484

goodnewscm.com // 17

Gò0dNews for Everyone

The Glorious Purpose of Prayer hough I have known for a long time that there are cracks in my armor, it was not until recently that I discovered to what extent. The largest of them is the most surprising. I have always considered myself rather adept at prayer but now must humbly admit otherwise. The vulnerability created by my intercessory failings is quite eye-opening.

The issue is not one of consistency or sincerity. I have always viewed prayer as central in my walk with Jesus. The culprit is inadequate application. I have taken what is a dynamic means of grace and repeatedly reduced it to a singular objective. My beseeching, to the exclusion of almost everything else, has revolved around the relief from life’s daily burdens.

There is certainly a place for such sentiment when I seek the Lord’s face. He wants that which weighs upon me to be offered up. But, if prayer is not deployed beyond this isolated need, it as spiritual weaponry will never defend as intended.

My shield against the darts of the evil one will continue to be compromised, unnecessarily exposing my soul to harm.

Compare my petitions to Paul’s: “And so, from the day we heard, we have not ceased to pray for you, asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God” (Colossians 1:9-10, ESV).

What Paul desired for the church in Colossae was nothing short of massive. He was not petitioning the Lord for a conflict-free existence. He was not asking that their difficulties be removed. What Paul sought for the Colossians was the quintessential purpose of prayer: to intimately know Jesus and His will. There is no higher aim. He wanted them to understand the extraordinary designs the Lord has for their lives. It is what transcends the hardships and leads to a Christ-exalting life of obedience and faithfulness.

Paul’s approach to intercession has slowly infiltrated mine; the operative word here being “slowly.” I continue

18 // December 2021

to surrender my daily challenges but have begun doing so in the context of Jesus’s larger plan for my life. And not coincidentally, I have become less concerned with the circumstantial and thus more apt to fight the temptation of fear and anxiety. This has freed me to start pursuing His aims with greater intentionality. In other words, the cracks in my armor are beginning to seal.

While I still have much to learn, I am discovering that steady application of the practical bears fruit. I have instituted a new routine, for example, where—prior to bowing my head—time is spent reviewing a note I recently scribbled on the inside cover of my Bible. It reads as follows.

“Request from Jesus: I would desire what He desires; I would love what He loves; I would despise what He despises; I would find increasing joy in what honors Him; I would follow Him in faith.” Though it felt mechanical at first—and still does to a degree—these themes help prepare my mind. They get the focus off of me and onto the Lord.

May my prayer life and yours be an aggressive pursuit of knowing Jesus and His glorious will for our lives. And may the quest have the intended effect: a walk that becomes fully pleasing to Him. About The Author

T

by Greg Grotewold

Greg Grotewold lives in Oakdale, MN, with his wife, Sandi, and their two sons, Luke and Eli. He is a deacon in his local church and greatly enjoys serving in this capacity.

Church Activities & Events Christ Church Presbyterian

Candlelight Service of Lessons and Carols Sunday, December 5 | 7PM 510 S Tibbs Rd, Dalton, GA

Collegedale Seventh-Day Adventist Church School of Music Christmas Concert Saturday, December 11 | 4PM 4829 College Dr E, Collegedale, TN

First Baptist Church

Ugly Sweater Christmas Party Wednesday, December 15 | 6PM - 7:30PM 603 7th St, Chickamauga, GA

Grace Pointe Assembly of God Christmas Party

Wednesday, December 22 | 6:30PM - 8PM 6613 Hixson Pike, Hixson, TN

Gò0dNews for Life

Making Room for Jesus

A

by Lori Sentell

s we transition into the last month of this

first in our hearts will make us a better wife, a better

year, we see a season and holiday that is full

daughter, a better sister, and a better friend to those

of commercialism. It is so easy to get caught

around us. It is promised in His Word, that if we will

up in the hustle and bustle of the holiday season. We

look unto Him and welcome Him, He will come in. He

decorate, shop, and prepare for dinners, parties, visitors,

will be everything we need to make it through!

and many more events. In order for any of these to be

The Bible tells us in Psalms 24:7-9: “Lift up your

a success, there has to be a plan. Without a plan, things

heads, O ye gates; and be ye lift up ye everlasting doors;

can be disastrous and chaotic. We want everything to

and the King of Glory shall come in. Who is this King of

be as perfect as possible, and we work hard to make sure all of the lists are checked and marked off. In all of our hurriedness, we often forget the most important person…Jesus! Our lives and our hearts become so consumed and filled with stuff instead of being filled with Him. We need to prepare our hearts and put Him first on our Christmas list.

We need to make room for Him in our hearts just like we prepare a special place for a guest that is coming to our house. Our guest would have clean sheets, towels, and anything else that would make them comfortable. We would not tell our guest when they came to our door, “I

Glory? The Lord strong and mighty in battle. Lift up your

have no room for you,” “My house is a wreck, you can’t

heads, O ye gates; even lift them up ye everlasting doors;

come in,” or “Come back when I have time for you to be

and the King of glory shall come in.”

here.” We would never do this…yet we make no room in

This is a must in order to have a close relationship

our hearts for our Savior. We push Him aside for other

with our Heavenly Father. A familiar line in the

things that seem more important at the time. By doing

Christmas carol, “Joy to The World,” also reminds us:

this, we are distancing ourselves from the very source of

“Let every heart prepare Him room.” Prepare your heart

our help and strength.

this Christmas season and let Him in and see what He

welcome Him to come in! Let Him fill you with His love, peace, kindness, and joy as only He can. Putting Christ

20 // December 2021

will do in your life.

About The Author

We need to open wide the door of our hearts and

Lori Sentell is the pastor’s wife of Cornerstone Church of God in Cleveland, Tennessee, and she is a teacher at Hopewell Elementary School.

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CARSTAR Universal of Fort Oglethorpe: James White

A

by Jodi Varnado

s we enter into a busy holiday season packed

As a construction worker turned Auto Body Shop

with hurried shopping trips and family travel,

owner, White never imagined he would find himself

road and weather accidents can happen

where he is today. “It was a gift from God that put me

regretfully and unexpectedly. If you find yourself

in this spot,” said White. “My wife and I built many

and your vehicle in need of accident support, towing

houses, and we would move into them until they sold.

assistance, or damage repair, the welcoming team at

In 2008 when the economy crashed, it was all we could

CARSTAR Universal of Fort Oglethorpe is ready to help!

do to survive. For two years, we were only making ends

CARSTAR, North America’s premier network of

meet, and then one day, Ken called and asked if I would

independently owned collision repair facilities with more

be interested in working for him. After taking time to

than 500 locations, has found its roots throughout our

pray about it and discuss it with my wife, I decided to

neighborhoods. Georgia franchise owner, James White, is

join the venture. It was later, in 2014, that he decided to

proud to serve the Dalton, Fort Oglethorpe, and Ringgold

sell it to me.”

communities with four locations. CARSTAR has been a

The family business has flourished since 2015 when

part of the White family for over ten years. “My uncle,

White purchased Ken’s CARSTAR North and opened a

Ken White, opened Ken’s Bodyworks in 1997 and then

second location one short year later. Since then, White has

joined CARSTAR in 2010,” said White. “I started working

opened two additional locations in the Fort Oglethorpe

for him in July of 2010.”

and Ringgold areas. Today, White and his CARSTAR

22 // December 2021

team of fifty-five employees—led by Tony Blansit, Spencer Stewart, Eddie White, and Zach Clark—continue to support these communities with compassionate care.

“I credit all of our success to God and my amazing team.

God has opened many doors for me and this business.

Here at CARSTAR, we firmly believe in helping others and being honest. We love to tell our customers that the reason we are booked out for months at a time is that God has blessed us,” said White.

CARSTAR Universal of Fort Oglethorpe offers 24/7 accident support and towing assistance, dent repair, dent removal, storm damage repair, and other collision services. They repair all makes and models of vehicles, work with most insurance companies, and offer a limited nationwide warranty. The sentiment of their slogan— Relax, we’ll take it from here—is felt as quickly as a phone call or a step into the shop’s easygoing environment. “The Ringgold and Fort Oglethorpe locations are unique due to their small-town feel. They are extremely laid back and welcome everyone! Both areas are very close-knit, and everyone around knows you or someone you may know,” said White. White’s Georgia locations are centered around community support and charity involvement.

“We focus about 80% of our advertising budget on local grass root areas—from sponsoring schools, Little League teams, local fire and police departments, Special Needs

a platform to invite customers to church, to pray with customers in the office, and to simply lead and live by example. I can honestly say we try our best to be disciples of God on an everyday basis at all of our locations,” said White. “I love to help out our customers who have been in an accident, and I enjoy seeing the smile on their faces when we are able to get them going again.”

If you find yourself in need of auto body repair this holiday season, call CARSTAR Universal of Fort Oglethorpe at (706)-965-4946. Visit CARSTAR’s website, www.carstar.com, to request an estimate or appointment time. CARSTAR Universal of Fort Oglethorpe is located at 5407 Battlefield Parkway, Ringgold, GA. They are open Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

organizations, Cystic Fibrosis organizations, and the Miracle League,” said White.

CARSTAR’s characterizing phrase, “a trustworthy Auto Body Shop,” is backed by White’s attention to customer care and mission-minded business approach.

“We do all we can to use the shops as a tool to spread the gospel—from giving out Bibles, using the shop as

goodnewscm.com // 23

Gò0dNews for Everyone

Peacemakers

T

by David Beckmann

he Advent season has long been a time to prepare

between certain political agendas and the philosophy of

our hearts for the celebration of Christmas. Jesus

Marxism. Marxism is an atheistic, materialist Christian

was born to save us from our sins (Matthew 1:21),

heresy that encourages the resentment of classes of

and so Advent is a good time to consider what He might

people based on jealousy and envy, pitting the haves

want to do for us.

against the have-nots. It encourages a perpetual

I'm sure you are aware of how divided our society is at this time about a number of different things. As

condemnation of those who seem to have certain privileges, and those who have those privileges are supposed to feel ashamed of them and allow others to take them from them.

As one fellow said recently, it used to be that our privileges and advantages were called “blessings.” God has given to us whatever we have (John 3:27; I Cor. 4:7). We may ourselves have been stingy or even thieving in our past, but now, because of what Jesus has done to save us, we work and use whatever resources God has given us so we can provide for our own and give to those in need (Ephesians 4:28). As believers who love their neighbors, we share what we have with others and help them. This is called charity.

At the same time, instead of envying what others may have that we do not—for whatever

Christians, we want to be sure we hold onto our mission

reason—we learn to be thankful for what God has

to preach and live the good news of Jesus in our

given us and to be content (I Thess. 5:18; Phil. 4:11). We

community—to be a part of the solution instead of a part

trust in Jesus’s cleansing blood and the power of His

of the problem. We, therefore, ask, “What does the Bible

salvation, we turn away from the sins of jealousy and

say about what is going on?”

envy, and this frees us. Jesus frees us to know the joy of

A good place to go is surely James 4, where we read: “But about the feuds and struggles that exist among you—where do you suppose they come from? Can’t you see

contentment and to avoid getting trapped in unhappy and sinful political pursuits.

Brethren, we are called to be peacemakers. Let us

that they arise from conflicting passions within yourselves?

show our community how to look to Jesus to save us

You crave for something and don’t get it; you are jealous

from our jealousy and envy. He will save us from our

and envious of what others have got and you don’t possess it

sins and give us His peace.

A lot of our problem today is rooted in the sins of jealousy and envy. We often hear of connections

24 // December 2021

About The Author

yourselves” (J. B. Philips).

The Rev. David Beckmann is an Anglican priest and Moderator of the C.S. Lewis Society of Chattanooga. Recently, he was director of the C. S. Lewis Study Centre at The Kilns, Oxford, UK. He blogs at revbeckmann.com.

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

Prayer Exhaustion

T

by Eddie Turner

here are people around us whose passion in life is

unexciting. And the blessings we ask for serve as annoying

talking to God. With wonderfully creative words

delays before meals. Despite being a very creative person,

and vibrant articulation, we call these people

I was not injecting any creativity into my prayers. And

prayer warriors. As we listen to their powerful pleas to

I rarely talked to God about anything exciting the way I

our King, we are often reminded of our own prayer life,

would with others. If this hits home with you, here are a

which can be…let’s face it, quite dull in comparison. Lulls

few things you can do to try and shake things up.

in the frequency of our prayers, however, are not always due to us being poor communicators. Sometimes, we just flat-out don’t want to pray.

I have experienced this in my own prayer life. There was a time when I would dive into my Facebook feed each morning in search of prayer requests that I could respond to.

Eventually, I found myself skipping over those that I had prayed for already or whose requests I felt were unworthy of my time.

This was horrible, I know. But it’s how my flawed human heart reacted to what is often called prayer exhaustion. What I was once eager to do, I had begun to dread.

Here’s an example of how this can happen. For the men, imagine committing to bringing home a red rose

1. Tell God about random things that are going on in your life.

for your wife every day. This is a wonderful gesture

2. Tell Him about something He created that you admire.

that I’m sure would earn loads of brownie points—for a

3. Sing to God one of your favorite praise or worship songs.

while anyway. Now imagine pulling into your driveway

4. Ask God to increase your heart’s capacity to love Him

and then having to turn around and go back to the store

and those around you.

because you forgot to stop on your way home. How happy

I could go on and on, but you get the picture. In the

would you be buying your wife a rose on that day? What if

Bible, we are told to pray without ceasing and to sing a

you were hurrying home to see the kick-off of the football

new song for His glory. Take a moment each day before

game you’ve been excited about all week? Would you be

you sit down to pray and think of something new to talk

as pleased to stop on your way? These things will happen.

to God about. As God sees the effort you make, He may

And as your heart becomes increasingly unattached, so

lift your spirits and provide you with new opportunities to

will your wife’s appreciation for the gesture.

share your love for Him with others. After all, if we’re not

When we treat our prayers like fill-in-the-blank forms and recite the same format over and over, praying becomes

26 // December 2021

excited to talk to Him, how excited can we be to tell others about Him?

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Gò0dNews from the Physician’s Desk

Whiplash and Chiropractic

H

Dr. Edgardo Salas

ave you experienced whiplash? Rear-end

can result in your head whipping back at a much

collisions are the most common kind of car

higher rate of speed causing greater injury.

accident that happens. Although they usually

Early Intervention is Key

happen due to a combination of sudden braking, poor driving, or even unclear road signs and directions, they can vary wildly in severity. This article discusses how chiropractic care can help.

Whiplash injuries are a serious matter. If an injury of this caliber is left untreated, then the potential long-term impact can be devastating.

Quite often, many patients that have been involved in some kind of rear-end collision do not even realize they have suffered injuries until weeks or even months post-impact. Their medical doctors do not always acknowledge injuries that may occur at lower speeds, despite a great deal of research today that says differently. If you believe that you have been injured in an accident, then you need to figure out how serious the injuries may be.

Expert Chiropractic Care To successfully treat a whiplash injury, it is

Unfortunately, most people that have been injured

extremely important to work with a chiropractic

may not even realize they are injured until long

professional that understands the problem and how

after the accident. By the time many people realize

to treat it. If you have been injured recently, you will

they are in need of help, their problems will need

need to get your spine checked as soon as possible.

more extensive treatment than if they had started

The sooner that you get checked up and take the

treatment sooner.

appropriate steps to care for injuries, the less chance you have of developing long-term problems.

All drivers should take action to reduce the risk of whiplash. Injuries tend to be more significant when

If you believe you have been injured and are in need of a Chiropractor, call our team at Pray Chiropractic today to set up an appointment.

Dr. Edgardo Salas practices at Pray Chiropractic

your headrest is positioned too low. If you do not

in Dalton, Georgia, and is currently accepting new

adjust it appropriately, it can act as an acceleration

patients and can be reached at 706-609-0023 or

point when you are hit from behind. A 5-mph impact

www.praychiro.com.

28 // December 2021

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

Burden Bearer

H

by Katie Loveless

ave you ever had a load that wore you down? Have you

to be in the right lane to get it. We do not even have to be on

ever wanted to release what you were carrying? I know

the move to get it. In fact, you can find yourself parked in the

I have. God brought this point home to me recently as I

handicap space and still receive burden-bearing grace. All that

picked up my oldest sons from elementary school.

The school has a process to direct traffic. Students are

usually called by name through a walkie and line up as their

is required to receive grace is faith. The apostle Paul reminds us of this in Ephesians 3:12 as he says, “In whom we have boldness and access with confidence by the faith of Him.”

parents arrive. This particular day, I waited and watched everyone else’s children run to their cars.

Mine were nowhere in sight. As the teachers began to wave traffic through, I pointed to the name hanging from the rear-view mirror to signify my children had not been released to me. I was instructed to pull over to the handicap parking while my children were located and escorted to me. In my eagerness to greet them, I waited by the van with the doors already open in anticipation of their arrival.

As I greeted each of my children, I gave them hugs and noticed the weight each carried in their respective backpacks. They were eager to climb inside but struggled under the weight and bulk of their sagging packs. Straight away, I lifted the load of each, which afforded them more ease. Instinctively, each of them quickly surrendered their packs once they realized the burden was lifted. They demonstrated there was no

He stands at the ready to receive you and all your cares.

need to carry what someone else was willing to, and that truth

Will you surrender them today? He is eager, willing to carry

hit me square where I need it.

if you are willing to surrender. Picture a school girl strolling

Let that truth saturate your soul! Soak it up like a sponge.

home and an interested boy strolling alongside her, offering

Isaiah 53:4 says, “Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried

to carry his books and hers too. Both delight in the stroll as he

our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God,

shows how capable he is, while she is secure in his affections

and afflicted.”

and in this willingness to bear the load.

There is no need to carry the burden that someone else is bearing.

I need this reminder in the season I am in. I find myself stumbling under the weight of it all—unable to carry on under the pressure, bogged down in despair, and just plain tired.

Beloved, may you know He delights in you. He delights in your burden, and it is His delight to bear it. He is not interested in what you can carry. He longs instead for your surrender.

“He delighteth not in the strength of the horse: he taketh

Just like the kids at the end of a long day, I carry on carrying

not pleasure in the legs of a man. The Lord taketh pleasure

until the moment of relief comes when I realize God is bearing

in them that fear him, in those that hope in his mercy”

my burdens.

(Psalm 147:10-11).

not stop there. Burden-bearing grace is available to us at all times. We do not need an appointment to get it. We do not need

30 // December 2021

About The Author

While our pickup story serves as a great reminder, it does

Katie Loveless is a social worker, wife, and mother of five boys. She is a student of grace who enjoys writing, gardening, and empowering others to pursue stability. Katie is also the author of arisetoo.blogspot.com.

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Gò0dNews for Parents

Marking Moments

M

by Jennifer Hastings

y family has a favorite river spot nestled in the

Not only did God want the Israelites to remember His

beautiful Tennessee Valley, where we love to

miracle, but God had the next generation in His heart and

spend a Saturday. My husband trout fishes, while

plan too. Those stones were to be a conversation starter

my oldest catches minnows and anything she can swoop

for the Israelites’ children who were not even born yet.

up in her net. The middle one lounges with me, and my

Kids are naturally curious. Maybe they would run ahead,

youngest makes racetracks for his Hot Wheels cars out of

play, and climb on the rocks while walking to the river.

the rocks and mud. We all have our favorite activities at the

Asking questions like, “How did these rocks get here?” and

river, but all of us like to collect rocks. We look for the most

“Where did these come from?” God provided an opportunity

unusual ones or how many different state shapes we can find.

to share His love with children. Parents, we have the same

Everyone keeps their favorite gem on a shelf at home.

Now that you know about my fascination with rocks and stones, you will see why God grabbed my attention with this story. When Moses died, God tasked Joshua with leading his people into the promised land. God provided Joshua with specific directions for moving forward with the Ark of the Covenant. The priest marched ahead of the Israelites carrying the ark and stepped into the Jordan River. The moment their feet hit the water, all the water piled up in a heap a great distance downstream, and the Israelites were able to pass through. When all the people made it to the other side, the Lord asked Joshua to get one person from each tribe to collect stones from the bottom of the riverbed. Joshua 4:21 says, “In the future, when your

job and opportunity today. We might not be walking to the

descendants ask their fathers, ‘What do these stones mean?’

riverbank with our kids every day, but the next time your

tell them ‘Israel crossed the Jordan on dry ground.’”

child begins talking in the car asking all sorts of questions,

God asked members of each tribe to collect stones from

try weaving the love of God into your answers. Share with

the bottom and bring them to the other side. I could not help

your children how God is answering your prayers. When

but think of my little jar. God marked the moment for the

you see God moving in their life, help them to mark the

Israelites with stones! Every time they walked by the Jordan,

moment with a stone.

they were to see those stones and remember how God

Joshua 4:24, “He did all this so that all the peoples of the

moved on their behalf. Not only does God perform mighty

earth might know that the hand of the Lord is powerful and

works on our behalf, He knows how our hearts work. He

so that you might always fear the Lord your God.”

knows we are sheep who are prone to wandering and

Mark your God moments.

forgetting. There is a lesson in this story for us. After God a new insight to you, stop and find a way to create a visual reminder of His love for you.

32 // December 2021

About The Author

moves a river out of your way, answers prayer, or reveals Jennifer Hastings and her husband, Stewart live in Rocky Face with their three children. She works for Dalton Public Schools as a curriculum specialist. You can check out their blog at thatsthewayweseeit.com.

Gò0dNews for your Taste Buds

Easy Brownie Trifle

D

by Pam Wattenbarger

o you need a tasty, showstopping dessert, but you are running short on time? This

easy Brownie Trifle recipe is a semihomemade dessert that is big on flavor. I always bring home an empty dish and receive frequent requests for the recipe whenever I serve this.

Ingredients • 1 box of brownie mix (18.3-ounces), prepared as directed on the package • 1 (3-ounces) package of instant chocolate pudding mix, prepared as directed on the package • 1 (3-ounces) milk chocolate candy bar, chopped OR ½ cup of milk chocolate chips • 3 Heath candy bars, chopped OR 1 cup of toffee chips, divided in half • 1 (12-ounces) container of whipped topping • 3 tablespoons of hot fudge ice cream topping, warmed

About The Author

• 3 tablespoons of caramel ice cream topping, warmed

Pam Wattenbarger is the author of The New Southern Cookbook: Classic Family Recipes and Modern Twists on Old Favorites & The Southern Air Fryer Cookbook. Find her recipes and more at SimplySouthernMom.com.

34 // December 2021

Instructions 1. Prepare the brownies as directed on the package.

Allow the brownies to cool.

2. While the brownies are cooling, prepare the instant chocolate pudding mix as directed on the package.

3. Crumble the prepared brownies into a clear 1-quart dish.

4. Spread the chocolate pudding evenly over the crumbled brownies.

5. Top the pudding mixture with the milk chocolate chips or the chocolate candy bar.

6. Sprinkle ½ of the toffee chips or ½ of the chopped toffee bars onto the pudding mixture.

7. Spread the whipped topping over the chip and toffee layer.

8. Drizzle the warmed hot fudge sauce and the warmed caramel sauce over the whipped topping.

9. Store in the refrigerator before serving. This recipe may be made up to 24 hours ahead.

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

This Is My Beloved Son

J

by Jonathan and Brandon Maloney

esus had just left a forty-day battle behind

the Old and New Testaments is fully capable of

Him in the wilderness. He had been

creating rivers of life in the wilderness.

tempted by the devil with everything, from

God is drawn to a broken spirit. When we

being asked, “Are you the son of God?” to going

feel we are about to break is when God’s mercies

forty days without food and being told, “Leap

are revealed and renewed! Oil and wine are only

from this building!”

produced through a process of crushing. Both

It is very interesting that even the Son of God had to go through trials before His ministry began. There is a lesson to be learned here to not grow weary in well-doing. There is a promotion after the trial. I am sure that Christ was still covered with the dirt of temptation from the desert when He was placed under the water of baptism, but as He arose out of the water, all of that was washed away. A voice was witnessed from all.

The interesting part of this is that this was after the 400 years of silence between the Old and New Testaments. There was

were used on the same man who was treated

no open vision, and no Word from God had been

by the Good Samaritan, and everything we go

spoken during this time. God’s first words heard

through is to help someone else. Christ minded

by man after this period were, “This is my beloved and He came down from Heaven, not for His own son, in whom I am well pleased.”

There are many of us that have a mighty calling and ministry awaiting but we must first

benefit but for ours! Go be Christ-minded! Go be new wine and let the Holy Spirit anoint you with His oil. God bless!

a time of isolation and dryness. But the God of 36 // December 2021

About The Author

pass the test of the wilderness. The wilderness is Jonathan and Brandon Maloney are humble ministers of God’s Holy Word. They are loving people who are well known for putting a smile on everyone’s faces!

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

Silent Night

T

by Danette Reeves

his Christmas season may look very different for

be the perfect accompaniment for the beautiful simplicity of

some of us. Many have had job losses, illnesses, or

this song.

deaths in their families. Our lives have been impacted

As you approach this Christmas season, find rest and

and changed over the past two years. The economy is

peace in your relationship with God, the Creator and Lover

hurting; families and friends are hurting. Maybe you are

of your soul. He loves you so much that He sent His Son,

hurting. And maybe your heart feels silent during Christmas

Jesus, to die for your sins. He was buried and rose again,

shopping and music and plays.

conquering death and hell. He wants a relationship with

Josef Mohr, who wrote the lyrics to “Silent Night” in 1816, was from Salzburg, Austria. He was one of three illegitimate sons whose father abandoned the family.

His godfather was the town executioner.

Eventually, he lived as a foster child with the curate of the local Catholic cathedral.

These times were very challenging. The Napoleonic Wars ended in 1816. Mohr was living in an isolated mountain village that still practiced pre-Christian rituals. Mohr believed God alone offers salvation without the necessity of a priest. Life was simple, frugal, and lonely. Yet, amid hardships, the verses to “Silent Night” came as a great reminder of what we celebrate: Jesus, Lord at Thy birth!

you. This Christmas season is a great time to renew your

Silent Night! Holy Night!

love and devotion to Jesus. After all, He truly is the reason

Son of God, love’s pure light.

Radiant beams from thy holy face With the dawn of redeeming grace.

Jesus, Lord at thy birth. Jesus, Lord at thy birth.

Later, Mohr met Xaver Gruber in Oberndorf, Austria. Gruber was the musician, also from very humble circumstances, who penned the music for “Silent Night” which was to be played on the organ for the Christmas Eve service at St. Nicholas parish church in 1818. The organ was

for the season.

Because of Jesus, we can rest in the midst of excitement, busyness, chaos, loneliness, grief, and pain. We can have peace that passes all understanding…even in suffering. My mind goes to the scripture in Psalm 4:8, “In peace I will both lie down and sleep; for You alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety.”

Find some time to rest in Jesus and sleep in the peace of His love.

Gruber strapped on his guitar and led the congregation in the first rendition of “Silent Night.” Somehow, that seems to

38 // December 2021

About The Author

broken when they arrived for the Christmas Eve service, so Danette Reeves and her husband, Charlie, live in Cleveland, TN. They attend The Church at Grace Point.

One of their joys is being Oma and Opa to four grandchildren. Her heart’s desire is to be a student and a teacher of the Word, and a consistent follower of Jesus.

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

Redeeming The Time

“W

by Filip Brunner

herefore he saith, Awake thou that

I have determined to post a daily “promise from

sleepest, and arise from the dead,

the Bible” (courtesy of blueletterbible.org) in order

and Christ shall give thee light. See

to encourage the handful of my friends who follow

then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as

me on social media. I try to bite my tongue and not

wise, Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.

post anything that is not edifying, but divisive and

Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what

does not amount to anything in view of eternity. I

the will of the Lord is” (Ephesians 5:14-17).

fail at times but if I am to redeem the time, I need to

What does the Bible mean when it talks about “Redeeming the time”? To redeem something is to

concentrate on things which have an eternal impact.

Of all of the men Jesus called as His disciples, Philip probably understood the principal of redeeming the time most keenly: “Philip findeth Nathanael, and saith unto him, ‘We have found him, of whom Moses in the law, and the prophets, did write, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph’” (John 1:45).

We cannot save anyone, but as witnesses of what Jesus has done in our lives, we can bring people to Jesus of Nazareth—who alone holds eternity in His hand and is able to take our “lostness” and make us come to life.

Let me challenge us all to take something good and pray that Jesus

purchase it back or to gain at a sacrifice. There are a lot

can make something excellent, something better,

of good things which we engage in, including activities

and something with eternity in mind out of it. Ask

which in and of themselves are not morally wrong.

yourself, “Does what I am doing with my time have

For example, spending a short time on social media.

an eternal impact?” If not, then perhaps there is time

Emphasis on short. Social media can be a colossal waste

for re-evaluation of our priorities.

40 // December 2021

About The Author

of my time when I get bogged down with it.

Filip Brunner is married to his wife, Dr. Kim Brunner and together they have six children.

He is a writer, author, and artist.

Gò0dNews for Everyone

Blessed Are the Balanced

T

by Linda Ray Center

his time of year is the season of holidays. With

lash out at my loved ones. It also took its toll on my health.

Christmas, New Year’s, and Valentine’s Day right

After years of an overly packed schedule, I realized that my

around the corner, it is easy to get lost in the

lifestyle needed to change. Now, I limit the busyness of my

excessive busyness of the holidays.

Perhaps, you are worried about staying calm through

the upcoming holidays, with meal preparation, shopping,

days by cutting back on activities, and I am learning to say no more often.

Memorizing 1 Peter 5:8 has also helped me to be more

holiday gatherings, traveling, or the other hundred things

aware of how I spend my days. “Be self-controlled and alert.

that need attention.

Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion

When we get overly busy, we feel like we are out of control. All we want is for it to stop. But how? Balance is the

looking for someone to devour.”

Here are three helpful tips to soften stressful holidays: 1. Live a Well-Balanced Life No one person can avoid stress, but Jesus came to bring us His peace. The Hebrew word for “peace”—shalom—is often used in reference to an appearance of calm and tranquility. Ask God to help you slow down when you are running on empty and find a balanced schedule.

2. Bless Others You are considered financially rich among nations if you have a roof over your head and food on the table. Try buying a few bags of groceries and dropping them off at a food bank or leaving them at a neighbor’s door who cannot drive. Loving others gives us a sense of meeting needs

key! We desperately need order and peace, not only during the holidays but every day.

Recently, I overheard a preacher describe BUSY as

instead of being busy.

3. Anticipate Hope Changing a busy lifestyle takes self-control and

Buried Under Satan’s Yoke. It is easy to get buried under

awareness to improve. I am not sure what your daily

things of the world—not necessarily evil things, but

schedule looks like, but I do know this: God’s grace makes

distractions from spending time with God and family. I

our view of things more hopeful.

don’t know about you, but whenever I find myself too busy, I feel like that person under Satan’s yoke. I lose my focus on

Instead of excessive activity during the upcoming holidays, let us be mindful that balance brings peace.

what is important until I start practicing balance again.

I learned the balancing lesson the hard way. The excessive activity caused me such anxiety that I would

42 // December 2021

About The Author

Is there a way to find balance during jam-packed times?

Linda Ray Center writes about everyday life with God, others, and self, as an author, freelance writer, and blogger at www.lindaraycenter.com. She resides in charming Chattanooga and will showcase her grandchildren’s pictures at any given moment.

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