February 2024

Gò0dNews February 2024

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Dr. Alan Hix Courtney Fox Dorothy Teague Heather Guthrie Jonathon Wright Kenneth E. Ware Kristen West Mary Wanda Lindsey Pam Wattenbarger Rachel Smith Reagan Marsh Dr. Rob Debelak Rodney Jones Rick Hughes Thomas Morrison

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and Bethany Ruckman and we have six beautiful 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 FEBRUARY 2024

GoodNews from the Pastor’s Desk

6 Ask the Pastor: What Books Would You Recommend for a New Christian?

by Reagan Marsh

GoodNews for Seniors

8 Bring Souls To Christ

by Mary Wanda Lindsey

GoodNews Money Matters

10 The Heart of Your Financial Plan

by Rick Hughes GoodNews for Men

12 More than Get You

Through the Storm

by Jonathon Wright GoodNews for Women

14 Be Still

by Rachel Smith

GoodNews for Marriage

18 A Study from Ephesians

by Kenneth E. Ware

GoodNews Cover Story

20 C.W. Callihan: Elevating

Homes with Excellence in Exterior Remodeling

GoodNews for Life

22 Purpose in Pain

GoodNews for Parents

24 Kids in the Kitchen

by Courtney Fox

GoodNews for Kids

26 Hey Kids: Do These Four

Things and Have a Happy Life

by Rodney Jones

GoodNews for Everyone

28 When Is Love Not Love?

by Dr. Alan Hix

GoodNews on Hymns

30 Why I Love These Lyrics

8

by Heather Guthrie

GoodNews for your Taste Buds

32 Classic Baked Macaroni and Cheese

by Pam Wattenbarger GoodNews Poetry

34 Prayers

by Dorothy Teague

GoodNews for Everyone

36 A Mount of Blessing: Numbers 6:22-27

20

by Dr. Rob Debelak

GoodNews for Health & Fitness

38 Why Exercise Is Medicine for the Mind

by Thomas Morrison

by Kristen West

36

Gò0dNews from the Pastor’s Desk

Ask the Pastor: What Books Would You Recommend for a New Christian?

A

by Rev. Reagan Marsh

s a longtime pastor and biblical counselor, I field a lot

His Affirming the Apostles’ Creed and Keeping the Ten

of questions. I received this one recently and decided to

Commandments are extremely practical books.

share my response. I hope it’s helpful for you.

Q. What books would you recommend for a new Christian?

How do I get them started well?

A. What a great question and a wonderful privilege to spend

8. John Calvin, A Little Book on the Christian Life. Reformation Trust's edition is recommended.

9. Don Whitney, Family Worship; and Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life (note that his chapter on journaling stretches

some time helping a new believer get well-established in the things

his exegesis a bit, but the book on the whole is solid,

of God! Good books are a fantastic resource. Most new Christians,

practical, and useful).

however, will need some help in reading with understanding. Plan to read through these books with your friend. Start here: 1. Get them a faithful study Bible. The Reformation Heritage KJV

10. Brian Cosby, God’s Story: A Student’s Guide to Church History is the best brief, simple survey. Sinclair Ferguson, In the Year of Our Lord, is accessible and engaging. If you have

Study Bible, the ESV Study Bible, the MacArthur Study Bible, or the

someone who’s more historically-minded, the best of the

Reformation Study Bible would be my first recommendations.

best is Nick Needham’s 2000 Years of Christ’s Power (5 vols;

2. Get them a copy of your church's confession of faith, creed(s), and catechism.

3. Sinclair Ferguson’s three books Grow in Grace and The

non-technical, but excellent).

11. Thomas Watson's trilogy: A Body of Divinity; The Ten Commandments; and The Lord's Prayer. Yes, this is a Puritan

Christian Life: A Doctrinal Introduction and Maturity: Growing

trilogy. It’s highly readable, very engaging, and deceptively

Up and Going On in the Christian Life are very helpful.

contemporary. He sees God and men so clearly through the

4. Jerry Bridges, The Practice of Godliness, Trusting God, and

lens of Scripture. Watson is the “cream of the crop” of the past!

Transforming Grace are must-reads (truly, anything by Bridges is gold).

5. Milton Vincent, A Gospel Primer for Christians is worth revisiting annually.

6. R.C. Sproul, The Holiness of God, Faith Alone, Chosen by God, and Growing in Holiness are category-defining books.

7. J.I. Packer, The Most Important 18 Words You'll Ever Know, Concise Theology, and Knowing God (in that order).

So, there's a suggested reading list. How do you walk them through this? With great patience! Plan to meet with them every other week over coffee to discuss the reading: an agreed-upon portion of Scripture and one chapter of a book. Have them note questions in the margin for your meetings. Tie these questions into your church’s confession of faith as applicable, and share how you try to apply these biblical truths in your own life. Memorize a Bible verse and a catechism question together for each meeting, and hold one another accountable on this! Begin and end with prayer together, and contact one another during the week for encouragement and to know how to pray for one another.

This is simple, reproducible, sustainable, relational, long-term discipleship. May God be glorified as you point one another to him!

Keep your questions coming at reformationdalton.com – I’ll do

6 // February 2024

About The Author

my best to answer helpfully and faithfully from the Scriptures.

Reagan Marsh is the founding pastor-teacher of Reformation Baptist Church of Dalton, GA. He contributed to The Jonathan Edwards Encyclopedia (Eerdmans), coedited in The Works of John Flavel (Banner of Truth), and authored two biblical counseling minibooks (The Greater Heritage). Reagan writes regularly for The Founders Journal and is coediting The Works of Hercules Collins (forthcoming, H&E). An SBTS graduate, certified biblical counselor, and Th.M student in historical theology, he has served in gospel ministry since 1998.

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Gò0dNews for Seniors

Bring Souls To Christ

T

by Mary Wanda Lindsey

hose people who can influence others to come unto

School leader explained to our children which classes they

Christ and partake of His goodness are to be admired

would be attending, walked with them to their classes, and

and respected. I have never been good at it myself

introduced them to their teachers. The Youth and Primary

but recently I was given some advice. I would like to share

leaders explained the mid-week activities and offered to

this information with our readers because it will help each

give the children rides to these activities. My husband was

of us bring souls to Christ. The plan is simple; it's just three

invited to join their softball team. It was a loving, kind, and

words: Love, Serve, and Invite.

How do we love everyone? First of all, we get to know them. How? By spending time with them, asking questions, and listening closely to the answers. We could ask them to tell us about their family, what they do for a living, what their talents are, or their hobbies. Readers, what questions would you ask? As we get to know a person we begin to love them.

Now we are ready to serve them in whatever way we can. In Matthew 25:35-40 KJV, the Lord tells us how serving others serves Him. “For I was hungry, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in: Naked,

amazing experience. It was like coming home. The friends

and ye clothed me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me.

that we made then we still have today, fifty years later.

Then shall the righteous answer him, saying Lord, when

Now, following this example (or others like it) they

saw we thee hungry, and fed thee? Or thirsty, and gave thee

know we love them, and that we enjoy serving them.

drink? When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? Or

Next, we invite them to come unto Christ and receive His

naked, and clothed thee? Or when saw we thee sick, or in

blessings. There is a hymn written by Phillip Paul Bliss

prison, and came unto thee? And the King shall answer and

about caring enough to rescue others. It is titled “Brightly

say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have

Beams our Father's Mercy.” The lyrics include, “Let your

done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, Ye have

lower lights be burning; Send a gleam across the wave.

done it unto me.”

Some pour fainting, struggling sea-man You may rescue,

I would like to share a personal example. It was in July

you may save.”

of 1973 that my family and I attended a new church for the

“He that loveth his brother abides in the light” (1 John

first time. I honestly believe everyone who attended church

2:10 KJV). This is a promise from our Savior that if we try

that day greeted us. They each welcomed us and said how

every day to love, serve, and invite someone, we will bring

happy they were to meet us and how happy they were to

souls to Him. We will also abide in His light forever and

have our family attending church with them. But it didn't

never walk in darkness.

after church and to have lunch with them. The Sunday

8 // February 2024

About The Author

end there, one family invited us to come home with them

Mary Wanda Lindsey loves the Lord and His people.

She and her husband have been parents and foster parents. They have three children, 15 grandchildren, and 30 great-grandchildren. As a family, they have lived in 6 different states plus Toronto, Canada.

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The Heart of Your Financial Plan with

Money Matters Rick Hughes Driven by a passion to educate, inform and prepare future retirees, Mr. Hughes founded Hughes Retirement Group in 2007.

His main interest is helping his clients in reducing their taxes.

F

ebruary is best known for Valentine’s Day, so it should be

If you felt that your heart was having issues or troubles,

no surprise that it is also American Heart Month. Making

would you rely solely on your family physician to care for you

small, heart-healthy changes such as choosing healthier

or would you get a referral to a cardiologist, who specializes

foods or being more active during our day can have a huge

in medical areas of the heart? Would you know exactly what

impact on protecting our heart’s health and our overall longevity.

to ask when you arrived for that appointment, or would

At Hughes Retirement Group, we like to think that a solid,

you expect the cardiologist to know the tests to give and

healthy retirement plan is the heart of one’s ability to enjoy and

questions to ask? As a retiree approaching or in retirement,

make the most of their retirement years. As the heart pumps blood

you need a financial specialist to care for your retirement

to all parts of the body, your retirement plan pumps life to all

plan and retirement future. Will you have enough income in

parts of retirement. Most people think of retirement and wonder if

retirement? How will those sources of income be taxed? How

they will be able to afford to retire, instead of if they will be able to

will the way your assets are invested and allocated affect the

enjoy retirement. Just as we can live a normal life, living a healthy

growth potential that they have? What options might you

life is usually much more productive and enjoyable.

consider investing in to create another stream of income during

The heart regulates our blood pressure. When we become

retirement? What is your investment risk score? Will these

stressed or overwork ourselves, our blood pressure can increase

distributions or any other law changes affect your income from

and become unhealthy. We have all experienced the stress of

Social Security? What is your Social Security Risk Score? How

the stock markets. These increases and decreases can cause the

will long-term care costs be covered if the need arises? What

pressure on our retirement plan to increase to unhealthy levels

about Medicare – how does that fit into your retirement plan?

as well. If you are taking distributions during retirement, having

Will you be required to pay extra Medicare premiums due to

a major market decline can have a very unhealthy effect on

income levels prior to turning 65? Would it benefit you more to

how those distributions affect the longevity of the account and

remain on your employer’s insurance and postpone Medicare if

the ability to sustain normal lifestyles during retirement. When

you work past 65 and if so, what are the steps to do that? Your

we become overworked or stressed in daily life, sometimes

financial advisor should have all the right questions and know

we take vacations to relax and recharge. Your retirement plan

which tests to run to assess your retirement plan’s stress levels

should still account for you having the ability to continue taking

and health based on your needs and objectives.

vacations. Or maybe you like to make gifts to your children or

If you feel like the “heart” of your retirement plan might

to charities each year. Perhaps you would like a vacation home

need a checkup during American Heart Month, please contact

in retirement or a new car. No matter the extra things outside of

our office for an appointment. We would also like to encourage

just funding basic retirement needs, your retirement plan should

everyone to make sure they are making heart-healthy choices

account for it all.

for a full and fruitful life.

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Gò0dNews for Men

More than Get You Through the Storm

by Jonathon Wright

I

n Mark 4, Jesus showed the disciples that He had the

praise, glory, and honor. Like the rest of the disciples, Peter

power to calm the raging seas. The terrified disciples

knew that God was with him through every storm. That is

thought they were going to die. At first, they felt Jesus did

why James and the others could rejoice and take joy when

not care for them because he was resting in the front of the

they faced hardships. They had faith that God was working

boat. They came to him, and the storm was gone after Jesus

in their lives. This simple truth helped them trust, wait, and

said three words. Following this, Jesus talked to them about

weather any storm.

their lack of faith. They did not do well on this test, but Jesus took care of it and kept working with them. He worked to help them fulfill their mission and become the people He was calling them to be.

James 1:2-8 Facing trials, temptations, and the storms of life can be unsettling. But James says we should count it all joy when this happens because it helps us to mature and complete our faith. Sometimes it is not easy to understand how hard times can be beneficial to our Christian faith. These are opportunities for God to teach us and increase our faith; however, sometimes it takes a while to recognize all God is doing. James knew this and was encouraging them to have unwavering faith in God. We do not want to let the wind and the waves of life's problems cause us to doubt and drive us away from God's blessings.

Peter And Paul Other apostles like Paul and Peter also had a high opinion of the value of experiencing difficulties. In Romans 5:3-5, Paul talks about rejoicing in tribulation or hard times. He did that so it would produce patience and experience with God. These experiences then produce hope and a sense of God’s love because of the Holy Spirit in our hearts. Paul knew the importance of praising God in the hard times. In Acts 16, he was in a Philippian jail praising God. The Lord sent an earthquake to get Paul out of jail.

All of this helped Paul lead the jailer to Christ and establish

My Testimony Right before the COVID-19 pandemic, I encountered some health and personal issues. That was one of my lowest points, but God helped me through. He gave me a wonderful family and friends in our church who weathered that storm with me. He gave me a better appreciation for what I have in the Lord. That storm helped me become a better father and follower of Christ. I am a new man with renewed hope because of it.

Also, I am so thankful the pandemic has moved away from us like a passing storm. I am so glad we serve a God who does more than get us through the storm. He meets us in the tribulations of hard times to bless and enrich our lives.

the Philippian church. faith as more precious than gold. He knew it would bring

12 // February 2024

About The Author

In 1 Peter 1:7, Peter describes the process of testing our

Jonathon Wright has been a member of the Church of God for about twenty years. He is a graduate of Lee University and Beacon University where he earned a BA and MA in Biblical studies. He loves studying the Bible and has done so for over thirty years, but only now has God given him a desire and the opportunity to be a writer. You can find more from Jonathon at https://christianwritersbookstore.com/jonathon-wright.

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Gò0dNews for Women

Be Still

by Rachel Smith

B

e Still. Those two words are something we hear

I also love to talk to God and worship while I’m driving.

throughout our lifetimes. From being a little kid

If you’re not a morning person, then maybe evening is best

sitting on a church pew to getting a shot at the

for you. The key is creating a daily routine that includes

doctor’s office to having someone do our makeup as we

time for you to be still in His Presence. I can guarantee you

prepare to get married. Of all the instances of hearing this,

from experience that if you make time for God, you can

It is God’s Word that I hear in my head the most when He

get more done than you ever could when you try to go on

said, “Be still, and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10 KJV).

about your day without spending time with Him. We never

For women, being still is not always easy.

Life can be so busy and so overwhelming at times. Most women work either in the home or outside of it, take care of children, do all the laundry, keep the house clean, do all the grocery shopping, pay bills, and put on their taxi hat to run everyone around to school, sports, and appointments.

Most women feel like a superwoman at times or at least feel the pressure to be one.

know what troubles we may face throughout the day when

But in all the busyness of life, it’s crucial that we stop to be

it comes to our marriage, kids, or work, but if we have had

still, to rest, and to get in a secret place with the Lord.

time in God’s presence, we are much more likely to stay in

When the Prophet Elijah was on the mountaintop waiting for the Lord, the Bible tells us that the Lord was

the fruit of the Spirit and handle it more appropriately.

Whatever battle you’re facing in life right now, I want

not in the powerful wind, the earthquake, or the fire, but

to encourage you to find time to just be still. We serve a

He came in a gentle whisper. (See 1 Kings 19:11-13). If we

good God who loves us, cares for us, and wants to have a

don’t stop and be still, we may not hear God’s voice when

relationship with us. Get in His presence, because there you

He wants to whisper something to us. Someone asked me

will find peace and comfort, and the answers to whatever

once how I make time for God with all the things I already

you’re facing today.

have on my plate, and my answer was simple, I get up with Him. I love to grab a cup of coffee, sit on my front porch as the sun is rising, read my Bible, worship, and talk to God.

14 // February 2024

About The Author

early in the mornings before my day starts to spend time

Rachel Smith is the founder of Transformed Wife, a non-profit organization that helps others learn God’s design for marriage. She hosts local conferences and retreats to help strengthen couples, and travels to speak all over the world. She has been married to her husband, Richard Smith, for 16 years. www.transformedwife.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 // February 2024

7638 Nashville Street Ringgold, GA 30736 706-965-7969 Harvest Baptist Church of the Deaf 1314 Old Three Notch Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-375-7107 Video Call: 706-956-0445 Heritage Pointe Baptist Church 60 Dyer Bridge Place Ringgold, GA 30736 706-858-0976 Hickory Grove Baptist Church 5010 Houston Valley Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-673-6999 Keith Baptist Church 1573 Keith Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-450-0963 Living Faith Baptist Church Highway 41 Ringgold, GA 30736 706-891-1817 Midway Baptist Church Highway 41 North Ringgold, GA 30736 706-937-2317 Mount Peria Baptist Church 341 Sparks Street Ringgold, GA 30736 706-935-4887 Mount Pisgah Baptist Church 66 Westbrook Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-935-3031 Mount Vernon Baptist Church 1006 Mount Vernon Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-935-3872 New Bethel Baptist Church 1635 Salem Valley Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-965-3500 New Friendship Baptist Church 3833 Salem Valley Road Ringgold, GA 30736 New Heights Baptist Church 158 Ooltewah Ringgold Rd Ringgold, GA 30736 706-965-9838 New Liberty Baptist Church 923 Graysville Road

Ringgold, GA 30736 706-937-4754 Peavine Baptist Church 1089 Peavine Road Rock Spring, GA 30739 706-375-4721 Philadelphia Baptist Church 1065 Pine Grove Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-891-5683 Pine Grove Baptist Church 46 Pine Grove Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-891-2427 Pleasant Grove Baptist Church 7769 Alabama Highway Ringgold, GA 30736 706-935-3348 Pleasant Valley Baptist Church 1995 Ooltewah Ringgold Rd Ringgold, GA 30736 706-537-3633 Poplar Springs Baptist Church 422 Poplar Springs Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-965-4461 Salem Baptist Church 1947 Keith Salem Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-965-3907 Welcome Hill Baptist Church 223 Inman Street Ringgold, GA 30736 706-965-4814 Church of Christ Cohutta Road Church of Christ 2233 Mount Vernon Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-935-3884 Ringgold Church of Christ 4099 Nashville Street Ringgold, GA 30736 706-965-2820 Church of God Boynton Church of God 1956 Three Notch Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-937-6300 Indian Springs Church of God 2256 Highway 41 North Ringgold, GA 30736 706-937-3599 Noble Church of God 75 Glass Rd

Lafayette, GA 30728 Ringgold Church of God 117 Emberson Drive Ringgold, GA 30736 706-935-2056 Wallaceville Church of God 236 Harp Switch Road Chickamauga, GA 30707 706-375-2736 Community Green Pasture Community Church 1008 North Beaumont Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-375-7333 Lee’s Chapel Community Church 3253 Catoosa Parkway Ringgold, GA 30736 706-935-9928 Rock Bridge Community Church 102 Remco Shops Lane Ringgold, GA 30736 706-279-3175 Full Gospel Yates Spring Full Gospel Church 1300 Yates Springs Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-638-2305 Methodist Boynton UMC 4246 Boynton Drive Ringgold, GA 30736 706-866-2626 Graysville UMC 2331 Graysville Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-891-9253 Ringgold UMC 7484 Nashville Street Ringgold, GA 30736 706-935-4777 Woodstation UMC 13198 Alabama Highway Ringgold, GA 30736 706-965-3360 Non-Denominational Battlefield Church of Faith Highway 41 South Ringgold, GA 30736 706-937-7729 Calvary Chapel Ringgold 548 Boynton Drive Ringgold, GA 30736 706-952-1502

Church of Living Faith 7623 Alabama Highway Ringgold, GA 30736 706-937-5673 Crossroads Church 7638 Nashville Street Ringgold, GA 30736 crossroadsringgold.com Faith Builders International 8309 Highway 41 Ringgold, GA 30736 256-338-5031 Grace Memorial Church 118 East Nashville Street Ringgold, GA 30736

706-965-7969 The Gathering 2501 Pine Grove Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-841 0161 Light House Church 1201 Lafayette Road Rossville, GA 30741 706-861-2715 Messianic Ministry To Israel P.O. Box 22654 Chattanooga, TN 37422 New Life Church PO Box 1973 Ringgold, GA 30736

706-866-7799 Venue Church 3969 Cloud Springs Road Ringgold, GA 30736 423-637-7100 Presbyterian Chickamauga Presbyterian 700 7th Street Chickamauga, GA 30707 706-375-3432 Christ Fellowship 1176 North Three Notch Rd. Ringgold, GA 30736 706-937-4115 Morton Memorial

560 Red Belt Rd. Chickamauga, GA 30707 706-338-7176 Seventh-Day Adventist Ringgold Seventh-Day Adventist Church 124 Kittle Street Ringgold, GA 30736 706-935-3741 Battlefield Community Seventh-Day Adventist Church 96 Hillman Lane Ringgold, GA 30736 706-861-5999

Fort Oglethorpe Church Directory Baptist Anchor of Hope Baptist Church 2613 Lakeview Drive Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-8318 Battlefield Baptist Church 178 South Cedar Lane Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-1316 Burning Bush Baptist Church 2195 Burning Bush Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-866-1989 Calvary Memorial Baptist Church 2 E Gate Drive Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-6183 Cloud Springs Baptist Church 207 Cloud Springs Road Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-0164 First Baptist Church Ft. Oglethorpe 2645 LaFayette Road Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-0232 Moriah Baptist Church 2864 Battlefield Parkway Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-8843 Nellie Head Memorial Baptist 2379 Catoosa Parkway Tunnell Hill, GA 30755 706-935-5236 Old Fort Baptist Church 18 Van Cleve Street Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-861-2807

Parkway Baptist Temple 65 Stuart Road Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-0325 Victory Baptist Church 1013 Layfayette Road Rossville, GA 30741 706-866-0371 Catholic Saint Gerard Catholic Church 3049 Lafayette Road Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-861-9410 Church of Christ Fort Oglethorpe Church of Christ 6 Harker Road Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-4124 Community Battlefield Ministries Church 64 3rd Street Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-9090 Episcopal Church of the Nativity 1520 Cross Street Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-9773 Methodist Fairview UMC 2112 McFarland Avenue Rossville, GA 30741 423-653-1043 Fort Oglethorpe UMC 1733 Battlefield Parkway Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-820-6314 Newnan Springs UMC

78 Monanaw Avenue Rossville GA 30741 706-866-6724 Nazarene Battlefield Parkway Church of the Nazarene 3220 Battlefield Parkway Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-9838 Non-Denominational Battlefield Assembly In Messiah 195 Ashley Lane, Rossville, GA 30741 304-890-0949 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

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goodnewscm.com // 17

Gò0dNews for Marriage

A Study from Ephesians nstituted by God Himself, marriage is to reflect the relationship between Jesus Christ and His Bride (the Church) – an earthly illustration of the heavenly reality.

As a covenant agreement between God and the couple, the Bible regards marriage in very high honor (see Hebrews 13:4). One man and one woman until death parts them, has always been God’s original plan for holy matrimony. The Apostle Paul’s epistle to the Ephesians has some choice words pertaining to the roles and responsibilities in a Christ-centered marriage.

The Role of the Wife I. Be Liable to Your Own Husband | Eph. 5:22, 24 Although all believers are to be subject to one another in the fear of Christ, in the Christian marriage, wives are instructed to “be subject” to her own husband, as to the Lord (Eph.5:21-22; Tit.2:5; 1Pet.3:1-6). Now, that does not mean that she must become inferior to her husband. Nor does it mean the husband is to be superior to his wife. The word subject (ύποτασσάμενοι) is a present tense verb which means to voluntarily rank under the authority of another. It’s also a military term that means to keep on giving up one’s own right or will to another. As long as it does not cause her to compromise her faith in Jesus Christ or violate scripture, she is to be subject to her husband “in everything” (v.24). As the wife keeps on submitting herself to her own husband’s authority, she will be subjecting herself as to the Lord.

The Role of the Husband II. Lead with the Authority of Christ | Eph. 5:23 Anything with two heads is a monster. Likewise, if the marriage is struggling with who’s going to be the head, it, too, will give the perception of something that is both dysfunctional and chaotic. To be exact, the husband is the head of the wife and family (Eph.5:23; 1Cor.11:3). The Greek word head (κεφαλή) means authoritative leader who provides direction. The husband is to be the primary decisionmaker in the home. Now, this does not mean the wife cannot make an executive decision, but the executive decision must be in agreement with her husband. Because of his position in Christ, the husband has the final authority on every matter

18 // February 2024

in the home. The husband has more responsibilities than his wife. He is responsible for all decisions. He is to be the spiritual and familial leader in the home.

III. Love with the Affection of Christ | Eph. 5:25-30 The old adage, “Happy wife, happy life” or “Happy house, happy spouse” is humorous, but there is some truth to it. Since Jewish antiquity, love has always been an attribute

of action. In the New Testament, love is a state of being verb.

Love always seeks the best interest of another. It is imperative for the husband to love (άγαπατε) his wife, continuously, sacrificially, and unconditionally. More than simply a statement, love is to be put into action. A husband must love his wife, like Christ loved the church and gave Himself up for her (v.25). A husband might ask the question, “How can I love my wife like Christ loves the church?” Answer, by being her prophet (represent God to her), her priest (represent her to God), her provider (supply her spiritual, physical, and economic needs), and her propitiation (sacrifice your life for hers, i.e. love her until death).

See Ephesians chapter 5 for further study.

About The Author

I

by Kenneth E. Ware

Kenneth E. Ware, M.M., M.A.B.S., M. Div. Pastor of New Sholar Avenue Baptist Church. Alumni Graduate of Temple Baptist Seminary. Christian Writer, Professor, and Expository Bible Teacher at Samford University Ministry Training Institute at Hamilton County Baptist Association in Chattanooga, Tennessee.

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C. W. Callihan expanded into the North Georgia and Chattanooga area in the early 2000’s and opened their corporate headquarters in Chattanooga during 2014. Since then, Chris Callihan has grown his company into one of the most well respected exterior contractors in North Georgia and Southeast Tennessee. While Chris is a modest man, he attributes his company’s success to the team he has assembled over the years.

Meet the C. W. Callihan Team Steve Totherow

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20 // February 2024

contractor and serves as a Project Manager and Sales Manager of the North Georgia territory. Steve has more than 30 years of experience in all facets of construction management.

Leigh Ann Bachus

Chris recruited Leigh Ann in 2014 to open a corporate office and assist him in managing his quickly growing company. Leigh Ann’s background in construction and real estate management, along with her accounting skills, proved to be a perfect fit for C. W. Callihan. Leigh Ann oversees all areas of operations including accounting, marketing, sales, growth, and project management.

Jackie Whitmire

The year of 2015 was a time of growth for C. W. Callihan which brought Jackie to Callihan as a Project Manager and Sales Manager for the Chattanooga and Cleveland areas.

Jackie holds a contractor's license and began his construction career 30 years ago as a home builder and brings with him a wealth of knowledge and experience in all construction trades.

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Yonny became a valuable member of the C. W. Callihan team in 2018 as a master carpenter. Yonny supervises the punch out technicians and makes sure all details of each

project are completed exactly as ordered. Yonny has an eye for detail and is always happy to go above and beyond to make sure customer satisfaction is 100%.

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Ashley serves as Administrative Assistant and has proven herself to be invaluable for day-to-day operations since joining the company in early 2021. Always eager to jump in and do whatever is necessary including answering phones, managing schedules, bookkeeping, and much more. Ashley is the friendly face that helps keep everyone on track.

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Jordan Whitmire, Project Manager.

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goodnewscm.com // 21

Gò0dNews for Life

Purpose in Pain

D

by Kristen West

iscipline and Suffering. Not many of us read those

regimented daily routines were all part of the training it

two words, raise our hands, and shout, Yes, please!

took to be an amazing athlete. They disciplined themselves

Sign me up for a double portion of that!

so as to be in shape when it came time to perform.

The very words discipline and suffering evoke images

God uses the suffering in our lives in a similar fashion.

of pain and discomfort, two things scientifically proven that

We are being trained by it (if we let it), sharpened through

humans will avoid at all cost.

it, and challenged to grow and mature to look more like our

Yet, our days seem to be filled with suffering in some manner, don’t they? It might be anything from a broken

Savior than we ever have.

Contrary to what the enemy loves to tell us, suffering

relationship to a broken appliance, a loss of a loved one to a

and discipline are not punishment – God doesn’t hate us.

loss of a job, a longing to be married to a longing for some rest.

“My dear child, don’t shrug off God’s discipline but

Unchecked, suffering can wear us down and cause us to become discouraged and weary. As Christ-followers,

don’t be crushed by it either. It’s the child He loves that He disciplines; the child He embraces, He also corrects…

This trouble [suffering] you’re in isn’t punishment; it’s training, the normal experience of children. Only irresponsible parents would leave children to fend for themselves” (Hebrews 12:5, 9, and 10 MSG).

What’s the purpose of discipline and suffering then? Why do we go through so much of it? “…it pays off big-time, for it’s the well-trained who find themselves mature in their relationship with God” (Hebrews 12:10 MSG).

Through suffering, we grow to

though, we are encouraged to keep discipline and suffering

become mature in our relationship with God, steadfast in our

in their proper perspective.

walk, and anchored in our faith. We see more deeply how the

The first 12 verses of Hebrews 12 provide a clear

Scriptures apply to our lives, how rich and deep God’s love

description of how God uses suffering and discipline for

for us is in our darkest of moments, and how everything in

our good.

our lives is used to train and develop us on our faith journey

“Endure suffering as discipline…[God] disciplines us for our benefit, so that we can share His holiness” (Hebrews 12:7,10 CSB).

Discipline is synonymous with training. We have all

(see Romans 8:28).

“For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is going to be revealed to us” (Romans 8:18 CSB).

order to be their very best at their sport. The rigorous diets and workouts, the early morning conditionings, and their

22 // February 2024

About The Author

heard stories of athletes who disciplined themselves in 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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Gò0dNews for Parents

Kids in the Kitchen

by Courtney Fox

Think outside the box - even little tweaks to their nutrition can change their health and life! Don’t be afraid to get silly, make things a game. More examples: • Level up their cereal. Over time, you can transition to something with less sugar, more fiber, and whole grains. Start small. It might take them a few times to get used to it. Don’t give up.

• Eat together as a family. Talk about your day, not your food if you have picky eaters. This brings the focus to something other than what they are anxious about.

• Remember, just trying a food shows your child is brave. Let them ‘Kiss The Food Goodbye’ if they don’t want something today. By approaching it this way, you are meeting them in the middle but they also are getting hints of the food’s flavor profile, helping them be more familiar with it for next time.

• If your little one doesn’t fancy store-bought green beans, dice up some ham and let it simmer on the

24 // February 2024

stove. Ask your child what two colors he/she spies.

• Add all kinds of veggies to meatloaf (just chop them up small and top with a little ketchup). Green bell peppers, carrots, celery, and mushrooms are a few you might not have thought to include!

Kids love your TIME. Spending time with them in the kitchen can create lifelong memories. They can help do plenty of things. What about these options?

• Show them how to pull grapes off the stem and put them on a kabob stick. This side of colorful fruit doubles as a craft! They become so proud to show their family what they have helped make for dinner.

• Clean out the fridge. Let your kiddo create a chef salad. Pull out any ingredients he/she can add in a large salad bowl. Allow them to experiment with mixing meats, cheeses, seasonings, veggies, fruits, nuts…whatever!

It’s common for children to sometimes reject certain foods. In those moments when your child is complaining, calmly redirect him/her toward prayer and gratitude. Your little one may just need a simple attitude reset. Praying before mealtime gives them opportunities to fill their gratitude bucket. Teach them gratitude changes attitude.

Mealtime prayers for small kids can be a rhyme or perhaps something simple and grounding, “Dear Lord, Thank you for providing us this food. Amen!” or quoting Scripture such as 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 KJV, “Rejoice evermore.

Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.”

Your kitchen can become a nourishing place for the mind, body, and soul and a practical place for making meals along with memories!

About The Author

I

n the moment you may see a mess, but there are very valuable opportunities to bond and grow with your children in the heart of your home, your kitchen!

Depending on your child’s age, you can try healthier swaps or alternatives for foods they already enjoy. If they show interest in trying new things, include them in this discovery. For example: • For waffle or pancake lovers, pair with 100% maple syrup vs breakfast syrup.

• When in season or available, offer servings of whole fruit before fruit juice.

• If your family consumes canned foods, next shopping trip try to purchase your go-to’s packed in water vs syrup/juice. Try finding cans with no salt or sugar added.

• When baking, introduce coconut flakes instead of sprinkles as a topping.

Courtney Fox is a nurse supervisor for the Bradley County Health Department. She recently ran and completed the Chattanooga marathon! She and her husband Cory Fox are raising two beautiful girls.

She enjoys fitness and prays you will too.

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Gò0dNews for Kids

Hey Kids: Do These Four Things and Have a Happy Life

F

by Rodney Jones

irst of all, I want you to know that I feel really

the parents that you have because God gave them to you.

privileged to write an article for you. After all, Jesus

Remember that your parents will not always be right

told his disciples that He loves children so much,

when they make decisions that affect you. But they always

that He wants them to come to meet him. He even told his

have the God-given right to make those decisions. The

disciples that entry into the Kingdom of Heaven was only

Apostle Paul wrote to the churches at Ephesus and Colosse

allowed IF a person became as a little child (see Mark 10:15).

admonishing the children in those churches to obey their

Eternal salvation depends on simple faith, just like a child

parents in the Lord.

can have. Jesus wants you to come to Him. Trust in Him to

HUMBLING yourself comes next. This principle is

save your soul. Trust Him and tell Him that you trust Him.

vital in obtaining God’s help. The opposite of humility is pride and God hates pride. Of the six things listed in Proverbs 6:17 that God hates, pride is first on the list.

In Proverbs 16:18 the Bible says, “Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.” Also, 1 Peter 5:6 says, “Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time.” King Hezekiah humbled himself and God turned away his wrath (see 2 Chronicles 32: 26). If you are lifted up with pride you assuredly will fall into the condemnation of the devil (see 1 Timothy 3:6).

REALIZING that life is hard is last on our list.

You will not always get your way. Most of the time you will not. Even though this article is a formula for happiness, you need to know that most happy

TRUSTING in God is the first and most important thing

and successful people have failed often. Failure happens to

that you have to do to have a happy life. Trust Him not

everyone. When you do fail, start again. Never, never, never

only for the salvation of your soul but trust Him each and

give up. The God we serve is a God of second, third, and

every day to take care of you and protect you. Realize that

even fourth chances! Remember, God used a murderer and

NOTHING at all in this world or the next can happen to you

an adulterer to write much of the Bible: the Apostle Paul and

UNLESS Jesus allows it to happen to you. And it will always

King David.

be for your good.

OBEYING your parents is next on the list. In Exodus

Remember these four habits. Make them your daily habits. Using these day by day will lead you to a great future!

20:12 God commands all people to obey their parents.

Commandment with a promise attached: “that your days may be long upon the land.” Obey your parents when it is easy and obey your parents when it is hard. You have

26 // February 2024

About The Author

It is actually the 5th Commandment and the only Rodney Jones is a retired police officer and is presently a housing and residence life staff member at the University of Tennessee, Chattanooga. Rodney is a member of Catoosa Baptist Tabernacle in Ringgold, Georgia.

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

When Is Love Not Love?

H

by Dr. Alan Hix

ow would you describe love? Recently, I came

would let me see my boy. If he loved me, why did he

across some comments on love by Margaret

take Michael away from me?” She also expresses, “I don’t

Atwood that are different than what we expect

believe in a God who keeps a mother and a son apart.

when someone writes about love. “This is a word we use

I believe in a God of love. No one has a right to come

to plug holes with. It’s the right size for those warm blanks

between me and my son. Not even God.”

in speech, for those red-hearted shaped vacancies on the

This picture of a mother’s love stands in stark contrast

page that look nothing like real hearts. Add lace and you

with that offered by Helen Steiner Rice:

can sell it.” These comments seem to reflect a somewhat

“A mother's love is something that no one can explain — It

jaded view of love.

is made of deep devotion and of sacrifice and pain. It is

One of my favorite authors is C.S. Lewis. In his book

endless and unselfish and enduring, come what may, for

The Great Divorce, he creates the story of an imaginary bus

nothing can destroy it or take that love away. It is patient and forgiving when all others are forsaking, and it never fails or falters even though the heart is breaking.”

Rice’s picture of love finds its roots in 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 ESV: “Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude.

It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing but rejoices with the truth.

Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.”

Lewis’s story cautions us that our own human understanding of love can often be flawed and distorted by our own desires and expectations. Our relationships are

ride in which some of the inhabitants of hell are given the

so much more fulfilling when we look at them from the

opportunity to visit with some of their friends and loved

proper perspective.

ones who are in heaven.

The Apostle Paul gives us a picture of love that is

In one particular story, a mother who is a resident of

grounded in the character of God. This Valentine’s Day, let

hell hopes to meet her son who died at a young age, now

us move beyond the feelings about our love for others and

a resident of heaven. She is consumed by the desire to

discover how focusing on the needs of others opens us to

meet her son whom she idealizes. She envisions a future

rich relationships through which we can express the love

where they will be reunited, and she can carefully watch

of God.

Instead of her son, she encounters her brother.

Disappointed, she exclaims, “If he [God] loved me, he

28 // February 2024

About The Author

over him.

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

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Gò0dNews on Hymns

Why I Love These Lyrics

by Heather Guthrie

T

his is my favorite hymn for many reasons. The most important reason is that it is a continual reminder to give everything to Jesus. When these lyrics come to mind it's almost as though the hymn is being sung over me. Or when I sing it, it's like I'm talking to the Lord and He is responding back to me. Also, I feel

He’s telling me that He wants all of what is in my heart: the good, the bad, and the challenging, yes every bit of it. When a desire or promise comes to mind and a negative thought comes with it, this song reminds me to sur-

render it to the Lord, all of it. All means completely and He completely wants you and me. When we surrender to Him that is an act of trust. Who better to surrender all to than the Lord who loves you and me?

I Surrender All

by Judson W. VanDeVenter

All to Jesus I surrender,

All to Jesus I surrender,

All to Him I freely give;

Make me, Savior, wholly Thine;

I will ever love and trust Him,

Let me feel Thy Holy Spirit,

In His presence daily live

Truly know that Thou art mine.

Refrain:

All to Jesus I surrender,

I surrender all, I surrender all;

Lord, I give myself to Thee;

All to Thee, my blessed Savior,

Fill me with Thy love and power,

I surrender all.

Let Thy blessing fall on me.

30 // February 2024

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2918 E WALNUT AVE, DALTON, GA 30721 706.529.4600

2366 BATTLEFIELD PKWY FORT OGLETHORPE, GA 30742 706.841.0150

W W W. B R I G H T- P E D I AT R I C S . C O M

Gò0dNews for your Taste Buds

Classic Baked Macaroni and Cheese A delicious macaroni and cheese recipe made with three types of cheese.

by Pam Wattenbarger

Ingredients • 3 tablespoons butter • 3 tablespoons flour • 3/4 teaspoon salt • 1 1/2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce • 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard • 1/8 teaspoon pepper • 1 1/2 cups milk • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese • 1 cup gouda cheese • 1/4 cup mozzarella cheese • 8 ounces uncooked macaroni

Instructions 1. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Remove from heat when melted.

2. In a small bowl, stir together flour, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard.

3. Add the flour mixture to the butter, stirring until blended.

4. Gradually stir in the milk, stirring until blended.

5. Return the saucepan to low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture is thick and smooth.

6. Remove from heat and add the cheddar and gouda cheese. Stir the mixture until blended.

7. In a saucepan, cook macaroni as directed on package. Drain.

8. Mix cheese sauce into drained macaroni.

9. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

10. Spray a 9” by 9” baking dish with cooking spray.

11. Add the macaroni mixture to the baking dish. Cover with foil.

12. Bake for 20 minutes.

13. Remove the foil and sprinkle the mozzarella cheese on top of the mixture.

About The Author

14. Return to the oven for 2-5 minutes or until cheese is melted.

32 // February 2024

Pam Wattenbarger is the author of 3 cookbooks. You can find more recipes on her website, SimplySouthernMom.com.

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: 423.790.5378

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 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 Poetry

Prayers

by Dorothy Teague

The songs that we sing, The prayers that we pray, Do not sit, they do not stay.

But travel onward through time and space, Reaching the throne room by God’s grace.

Oh, that the King of kings would care about me, To hear my cry on bended knees.

And the miracle doesn’t stop there,

34 // February 2024

About The Author

My prayers go on through eternity.

Dorothy Teague is a Tennessee native, who resides in McMinn County with her husband, Lewis, on their farm. After completing 31.5 years as a teacher in the Bradley County School System, she is active in her church at Eastanallee Baptist Church where she is a member of the choir and praise team.

There’s no time for downtime.

D _k¥ āF oq āÉÈÈā :

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KubotaUSA.com © Kubota Tractor Corporation, 2023. This material is for descriptive purposes only. Kubota disclaims all representations and warranties, express or implied, or any liability from the use of this material. For complete warranty, safety, incentive offer and product information, consult your local dealer or go to KubotaUSA.com.

Gò0dNews for Everyone

A Mount of Blessing: Numbers 6:22-27 ver four centuries lapsed before Israel was freed from Egyptian bondage (Genesis 15:13). The lamb’s blood was shed (Exodus 12), the sea was crossed (Exodus 14-15), and deliverance was realized! Three months of desert travel follow, seeing divine provision (Exodus 16:1-17:7), divine protection (Exodus 17:8-16), and divine direction. Called into the wilderness to worship (Exodus 5:1), the multitude journeyed to Sinai (Exodus 19), where meeting the Giver took priority over entering the Promised Land, making Sinai the mountain of encounter. This is where Moses had engaged God - at a bush on fire that was not consumed (Exodus 3:2). His personal story became the corporate experience of his nation as they now stood before a flaming mountain, but it was not expended (Exodus 19).

Spanning the next year, Israel received God’s laws and the blueprint for acceptable worship. Before departing this mount, the LORD instructed Moses on how and why Aaron’s family line of priests will bless the people (Numbers 6:24-26). Quoting the Almighty, they said: The LORD bless you and keep you: The LORD make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you: The LORD turn His face toward you and give you peace.

The blessing’s ‘speech and results’ pattern echoes the creation account. Genesis 1 depicts the LORD of eternity addressing a dark void, commanding good things from nothing. With heightened anticipation at the efficacy of God’s utterance, the barren wilderness of Sinai is the initial setting for these world-making words. The blessing elicits faith in the One Who is without limits.

At Sinai, Egypt lies behind, and Canaan awaits. Idolatry tested Israel’s spiritual metal, as these neighboring nations worshiped creation, not the Creator. God is the source of light and favor, not the natural elements (sun; Genesis 1).

Isaiah (24:23) and John (Revelation 22:5) reiterate that when the sun ceases to shine, God will still be there. The blessing conveys a timeless worldview.

The hallowed Name is vocalized in each of the three lines. Reverently voicing the singular, sacred Name emphasizes the Holy One’s majestic splendor. Israel’s relationship with one God stands in distinction to the

36 // February 2024

plurality of gods revered by other nations. The blessing shapes identity - God’s people are in a spiritually troubled world but are not of it or like it.

Three pairs of benefits are petitioned: favor and security, approval and kindness, acceptance and wholeness. People need these qualities for healthy growth and fulfillment, but these features cannot be adequately appreciated apart from God. These words appeal to embracing life according to

the LORD’s instructions, abandoning contrary conduct that incurs judgment (Deuteronomy 28). The fruitful life of faith humbly receives what it needs (God’s goodness, protection, fellowship, affirmation, grace, and completeness) despite the recipient’s inability to return a gift in kind. The greater generously gives to the lesser, displaying the amazing covenant love of God! This blessing calls for holy humility.

“And they shall put my name upon the children of Israel; and I will bless them” (Numbers 6:27).

The Law at Sinai rendered due regard for God’s Name (Exodus 20:7). Set apart for Him, the people were to reflect the LORD’s holy character (Leviticus 11:44-45).

Priestly fidelity among a faithful community would see the deepened closeness of the nation with God. His ministers are blessed, calling His people to purity by His gift of words – words of hope and commitment. Beautifully, then, the reason for meeting at this mount unfolds: God (the bridegroom) gives His Name to His bride (His people).

About The Author

O

by Dr. Rob Debelak

Dr. Rob Debelak is Professor of Bible at Lee University. He has taught at Lee University for 29 years and is a veteran of the U.S. Air Force.

He and his family reside in Cleveland, TN.

BRENDON’S HANDYMAN SERVICES

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BRENDON’S HANDYMAN SERVICES

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The condo, located on the second floor of our newly built Exotic Animal Barn, offers the most unique, as well as the most exclusive stays here on our farm which also offers Farm Tours, Horseback Riding, Camel Rides, Pony Rides, River Tubing and more! Visit our website now to book your ONE-OF-A-KIND vacation!

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Gò0dNews for Health & Fitness

Why Exercise Is Medicine for the Mind

M

by Thomas Morrison

ost people are motivated to begin working out for

get older. Ratey warns, “If your brain isn’t actively growing,

the health and appearance benefits for their bodies,

then it’s dying.” Exercise is the best fertilizer!

but the longer I work in this field the more I think

Defeating Depression and Anxiety

the greatest benefits of exercise may be for the brain. Indeed, working up a good sweat literally helps you build a bigger, better, happier brain. Let me show you how.

Pumping up the Brain Just like muscle and bone thin with age, our brains

“Anxiety in the heart of man causes depression, but a good word makes it glad” is an old proverb on a very common ailment. It seems the anxious mind, and certainly, the depressed one gets caught in a negative loop, locked in on itself without the seeming ability to work its way out. The

actually shrink with age too. The impact on speed of thought,

brain needs resiliency and adaptability to respond to stressful

memory, and learning can be profound. The good news is

new thoughts and circumstances in a positive manner. The

physical exercise, especially aerobic exercise, helps the brain by increasing blood flow, delivering vital oxygen and nutrients, and subsequently “pumping up” the areas of the brain that are involved in verbal memory and learning. Many studies have suggested that the parts of the brain involved in thinking and memory have greater volume in people who exercise than those who don’t. One study of healthy sedentary people aged 60-79 showed significant gains in brain volume only six months after beginning an aerobic exercise program. Importantly, those changes didn’t occur in the control group who weren’t doing aerobic exercise. The researchers concluded that the improved cardiovascular fitness was associated with fewer age-related changes in the brains of older people. That doesn’t mean we need to wait until we retire to get this brain benefit! Studies

infrastructure to make that happen is built with exercise!

with school-age children have found increases in physical

Remember, BDNF is released during exercise to protect the

activity improve learning and testing ability. This benefit was

brain cells and encourage their connectivity and growth.

so great it got the attention of Harvard psychiatrist John Ratey

One study of 30 depressed patients found that every one of

who was inspired to write Spark: The Revolutionary New Science

them had low BDNF levels. In another study, antidepressants

of Exercise and the Brain.

restored BDNF levels to normal, but exercise does the same. It

Miracle-Gro for Brains

also boosts serotonin, making it a natural antidepressant.

Ratey declares, “Exercise is the single most powerful

Kenneth Cooper, the “Father of Aerobics” says, “Exercise

tool you have to optimize your brain function.” And he says,

isn't just for the physically unfit. It's for the mentally unfit, too.

“Moving the body keeps the brain growing.” He calls exercise

I can recommend it for anyone who's depressed. If exercise

Miracle-Gro for the brain. Much like plant food makes plants

benefits the body, it can do wonders for the mind.” Truly, 100%

grow lusher, the chemical known as brain-derived neurotrophic

of people who exercise to the point of cardio-respiratory fitness

factor, or BDNF, stimulates the growth and proliferation of

will experience an increased sense of well-being. Is it time to

brain cells. This is especially true in the hippocampus, which is

start taking your medicine? Get moving!

Since this region is also more vulnerable to decay with old age, it is doubly important to maintain an exercise program as you

38 // February 2024

About The Author

the region of the brain that is largely responsible for memory.

Thomas Morrison is the fitness coordinator and a personal trainer at Bradley Wellness Center in Dalton, Georgia, where he has served for the past 23 years.

THE LEADERS IN HEART CARE ARE AT HAMILTON.

Selwin Abraham, MD, FACC Board-Certified Interventional Cardiologist

Steven Austin, MD, FACC, FSCAI Board-Certified Interventional Cardiologist

Hugh Coke, MD Board-Certified Non-Invasive Cardiologist

Ji Hyun Lee, MD, FACC Board-Certified Non-Invasive Cardiologist

Ateet Patel, MBA, MD, FACC Board-Certified Interventional and Structural Cardiologist

Alan Simeone, MD, FACS Board-Certified Cardiothoracic Surgeon

Paul Stewart, DO Board-Certified Non-Invasive Cardiologist

Ezad N. Ahmad, MD, FACC Board-Certified Cardiologist

Rajiv Verma, MD, FACC Board-Certified Electrophysiologist and Cardiologist

Hector Dourron, MD, FACS Board-Certified Vascular Surgeon

Michael Hartley, MD, FACS Board-Certified Vascular Surgeon

Angel Brown, MD Board-Certified Critical Care Physician

Scott Hill, MD Board-Certified Anesthesiologist

Nathan Schatzman, MD Board-Certified Anesthesiologist

Hamilton’s premier heart care team provides expert care to our region with comprehensive award-winning cardiovascular services that include open heart surgery, structural cardiology, and highly advanced, minimally invasive heart procedures. Integrated, life-saving heart care from one system, one team, for the one and only YOU. Visit HamiltonHealth.com/heart to learn more about Hamilton’s cardiovascular services.

Health Care System

Hamilton Medical Center’s market includes: GA- Calhoun, Chatsworth, Dalton, and Fort Oglethorpe TN- Athens, Chattanooga, Cleveland, and Dayton

We serve with COMPASSION