January 2026

Gò0dNews January 2026

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About Us WRITERS

Candyce Carden Carl W. Corser Charles Finney Danette Reeves Dorothy Teague Filip Brunner Garrett Nudd Jamie Peak Jan Merop Jonathon Wright Reagan Marsh Rhonda Cross Sandra Gilmore Spring Fricks

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Matthew Ruckman 423-503-1410 Email: goodnewstn@gmail.com

DESIGN

Caleb Prytherch Email: art.goodnews@gmail.com

PHOTOGRAPHER Paula Knipp 423-310-4207

EDITOR/ARTICLE COORDINATOR

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,

Sandra Gilmore Email: articles.goodnews@gmail.com

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Contents JANUARY 2026

GoodNews from the Pastor’s Desk

6 Ask the Pastor: Modesty,

Legalism, and the Word of God

by Reagan Marsh

GoodNews for Everyone

8 Kingdom Resolutions:

Replacing “Me” With “We”

by Spring Fricks

GoodNews Money Matters

10 AI in Retirement Planning: Helpful Innovation or Substitute for Human Advisors?

by Jamie Peak GoodNews for Men

12 Milky Miracles and the Gospel of Gainz

by Charles Finney GoodNews for Women

14 Winter’s Reflections

by Danette Reeves

GoodNews for Marriage

18 The Cure

by Carl W. Corser

GoodNews Cover Story

20 Gary Thacker Insurance

Agency: Neighbors First.

Advisors Always.

GoodNews for Everyone

22 Looking for Jesus in All the Wrong Places

by Filip Brunner GoodNews for Parents

24 Noah and God’s Help: Genesis 9

by Jonathon Wright GoodNews for Kids

26 Chatty Critters and Friends: What’s all the Buzz about?

by Jan Merop

6

GoodNews for Discovering More

28 Starting with MORE THAN

by Garrett Nudd

GoodNews for Seniors

30 Cleaning Out the Clutter

by Dorothy Teague

GoodNews for your Taste Buds

32 Smoky Mountain Pinto Beans and Cornbread

GoodNews Poetry

34 Intimidation

20

by Rhonda Cross

GoodNews for the Season

36 The Joy of January

by Sandra Gilmore

GoodNews for Health & Fitness

38 How to Mirror God’s Rhythm of Rest

by Candyce Carden

36

Gò0dNews from the Pastor’s Desk

Ask the Pastor: Modesty, Legalism, and the Word of God

by Reagan Marsh

Q.

6 // January 2026

entered my death, and redeemed sinners for Himself.

Modesty awaits the day Christians see Him as He is (1 John 3:2), when our lowly bodies are transformed to be like His heavenly body (Philippians 3:21), when all applause (Psalm 65:1) explodes forever—not for one adorned in clothing or accessories that rot, but from those wearing the unfading loveliness of Christ’s righteousness.

So—is modesty a fruit of the Spirit? Cumulatively speaking, yes; like holiness, it’s the consequence of God’s indwelling Spirit. Can we regulate such fruit? No more than we regulate God’s sovereignty (Psalm 115:3) or Christian growth (Hebrews 6:1-3). What about basic standards?

Absolutely. Ought they be rigid? No. Think more toward guidelines (Colossians 3:12): “Scripture does not specify particulars; our family/church dresses modestly, both sexes alike. We direct attention to the Saviour, not self.” Help people treasure Jesus above admiration—whether lustful (vice) or legalistic (virtue police).

Developing a Christian conscience means walking in true freedom under Christ’s Lordship and Scripture’s authority, submitted to godly oversight by faithful elders, husbands, and fathers who lovingly lead and shepherd by teaching God’s character.

Focused on hemlines, hypocrisy threatens; focused on God’s holiness, faithfulness grows.

I enjoy hearing from readers. Submit questions at reformationdalton.com/contact—I’ll answer from Scripture.

About The Author

I’m wrestling with modesty. My family aims for Godhonoring dress. Is modesty akin to a fruit of the Spirit, or a work we strive for? Some at church want rules concerning clothes; I’m worried about legalism or Pharisaical attitudes.

A. Modesty is a moving target — should skirts be 1” or 1.5” above the knees? Scripture doesn’t specify—nor does it demand dresses, forbid pants, etc. It does specify outward modesty as reflecting inward humility before God and others. Humility lacks highmindedness (Romans 11:20), selfpromoting forwardness (James 4), and general haughtiness (Proverbs 6:16). Love seeks not its own (1 Corinthians 13:5), but immodesty certainly does. Ultimately, immodesty is idolatry, discarding the First Commandment (Exodus 20:3): aiming at admiration, displaying self-glory, exalting me.

“The unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit” as “very precious in God’s sight” (1 Peter 3:4) quickly becomes clear here. God’s eyes matter; any meaningful recognition and approval come from him; He looks on hearts, not outward appearances (1 Samuel 16:7). 1 Peter 3 addresses women, but men can also prove immodest (not merely in dress). The principle applies universally: every heart must be humbled before the Holy One. How many layers I wear doesn’t matter if my heart still “seeks its own”: pursuing self, prizing praise. Immodesty occurs at school, home, church, work, markets—any place where any heart goes unhumbled before God is a place where immodesty reigns.

Immodesty forgets I am a creature of dust, bearing God’s image; He alone is resplendent in true beauty.

Immodesty forgets my reason for existence is reflecting His worth (Isaiah 43:7; 1 Corinthians 10:31). He owed me no knowledge of Himself; the Creator has sole prerogative to give or withhold. But choosing to reveal Himself in creation (Psalm 19:1-6), Scripture (Psalm 19:7-14), and Jesus (John 1:1-18), if God failed to declare His supremacy, sufficiency, and majesty as Lord, it would be incredible immodesty on His part. He’d fail to show where our instinct for beholding beauty and glory should lead—the Cross of Jesus.

Modesty clothes itself with humility befitting a creature who knows the Creator clothed His splendors in my flesh,

Having served in the Gospel ministry since 1998, Reagan Marsh is husband to Kara, daddy to RG and AG, and founding pastorteacher to Reformation Baptist Church of Dalton, Georgia. For more about Pastor Marsh, see www.reformationdalton.com.

D OW N TOWN R I NGG OL D 8 6 Te nne ss e e St re e t , R ing gol d, G A 3 0 7 3 6

Gò0dNews for Everyone

Kingdom Resolutions:

Replacing “Me” With “We”

H

by Spring Fricks

as our quest for individual renown cost us the soul of our communities?

This question arose in my spirit after becoming

disillusioned by the self-centeredness evidenced in my New Year's resolutions.

As a wife, mother, and Child of God I know it’s not all about me. Yet, my list only consisted of those things that would improve my image, identity, and attitudes. Nothing on my list improved the conditions of my family, church, or community.

Something needed to change.

After all, He is Jesus Christ, my King, and therefore I prayed, “Lord, 2026 is yours. Write my resolutions according to Your Will.”

In simplistic beauty the Lord answered: Matthew 22:37

BSB: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself.”

Jesus sums up our Christian walk with the two greatest commandments. First, love Him above all else. Second, love others.

But how does that apply to my resolutions list?

The key is in the second command. Jesus is King, but to be a king one must have a kingdom. By myself, I do not make up an entire kingdom. Therefore, I must join my voice with the cacophony of voices from the body of believers in its entirety. Together, in community, we are the kingdom that declares His Lordship.

This is the communal perspective of the Bible. Often, we read Scripture as it pertains to “me,” but the original audience was a “we.” Jesus and His apostles were teaching whole groups, congregations, and peoples the idea that we’re to collectively work together to uphold His Kingdom.

Further, His Kingdom is not yet complete which means there is still work to be done. Laying down the mindset of “I” and picking up the mantle of “we” creates much broader shoulders upon which this work can be accomplished.

This idea does create an Epimenides Paradox in that a better community cannot be established without first creating

8 // January 2026

a better self. However, the logic puzzle is remedied through an examination of our heart’s posture. When I prostrate myself at the foot of His throne placing my love for Jesus above all else, then the natural progression of this posture is that my love of others trumps my own selfish desires.

This changes the mindset behind my list of resolutions.

Instead of writing a list that creates a better “me,” I’m writing a list that creates a better “we.” Working together, we create a multiplication effect of effort where we grow, empower, encourage, and enlarge our borders. When one falls, another is there to help them up, and when one is heavy-laden, another is there to help lighten the load.

This is how we walk out in real time the communal perspective of Scripture. As in Galatians 6:2 BSB, “Carry one another’s burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ.”

By placing God first and creating space for community to thrive, we are upholding the greatest of His commandments while working to further His Kingdom.

This year, I’ve revised my list to create outcomes that benefit both “me” and “we.” Together, we are stronger. Collectively, we are the hands and feet of Jesus.

Happy New Year. May it be better than the last, and may it see you (and your community) grow beyond measure in Jesus Christ, our King.

About The Author

intentionally want to be about His Kingdom. Staring at my list, I

Spring M. Fricks is a writer, speaker, teacher and content creator for Shield 33 Ministries, a ministry founded to disciple and equip believers to grow in an intimate relationship with Jesus. She lives in NW Georgia.

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AI in Retirement Planning: Helpful Innovation or Substitute for Human Advisors? with

Money Matters Jamie Peak

A

s artificial intelligence (AI) becomes more woven

health concerns, family dynamics, and unexpected life

into our daily lives—from online shopping

events. A human advisor can listen, empathize, and translate

suggestions to virtual medical check-ins—it’s no

personal stories into tailored strategies. AI, on the other

surprise that it has also found a place in retirement planning.

hand, can only process the data it is given. If a user fails to

Many financial institutions and companies now offer

disclose a financial worry, a family obligation, or a dream

AI-driven tools that claim to simplify investing, estimate

to relocate, the system cannot ask follow-up questions the

retirement needs, and help individuals plan for a secure

same way a person can.

future. But as convenient and affordable as these tools may

Life rarely goes exactly as planned, and this is where

be, an increasingly important question is emerging: Can AI

human advisors shine. When a job is lost, a medical

truly replace the role of a real financial advisor?

diagnosis changes long-term needs, or the markets become

The answer, at least for now, is not so simple.

turbulent, clients often want someone to talk to—someone

AI-powered retirement planning platforms excel at

who can respond with reassurance, creative solutions, and

crunching numbers. Given a person’s age, income, savings

adaptable strategies. AI may offer suggestions, but it cannot

rate, spending patterns, and investment preferences, these

provide emotional support or understand how stress

systems can quickly produce projections, identify gaps, and

influences decision-making.

recommend portfolio allocations. They operate around the

Another drawback is oversimplification. While AI tends

clock, never take a vacation, and generally cost far less than

to follow efficient formulas, retirement planning sometimes

hiring a human advisor. For younger savers or those just

requires customized approaches involving estate planning,

getting started, AI can act as a helpful entry point—breaking

taxes, real estate decisions, or business ownership. These

down complex financial concepts and providing actionable

situations often go beyond the capabilities of automated

suggestions with clarity and speed.

tools and demand the expertise of a trained professional.

Additionally, AI tools have the advantage of being

That said, the debate isn’t really about choosing between

highly data-driven. They can analyze market conditions

AI or a human advisor. Increasingly, the most effective

in real time, adjust models on the fly, and help users stay

approach blends both. AI can handle the calculations,

disciplined by removing emotional bias. For many people,

projections, and routine adjustments, while human advisors

the consistency and objectivity of AI creates a sense of

offer the personalized insight, judgment, and relationship-

structure that may be hard to maintain without guidance.

building needed for long-term success.

However, despite these benefits, AI still struggles in areas where human nuance matters most.

Retirement planning is not just a math problem—it is

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10 // January 2026

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Gò0dNews for Men

Milky Miracles and the Gospel of Gainz

L

by Charles Finney

isten, we’ve all heard stories about newborns and their

Not just drinks—chugs. This kid latches on like it’s been in a

passionate love affair with milk. But what happens when

desert and just spotted an oasis made of dairy. And guess what?

a first-born shows up, ready to conquer the world with

Weight begins to return. Slowly at first. Like it’s sneaking

their tiny clenched fists—and there’s no milk to be found?

back in, hoping no one notices. Then faster. Rolls reappear.

That’s where our story begins.

The cheeks plump up. The thighs get that delicious Michelin-

So, there’s this brand-new human—first-born, royalty of

man squish. The baby transforms from “concerned raisin” to

the nursery, fresh out of the womb with cheeks puffier than a

“glorious dumpling.”

sourdough starter and a cry that sounds like it’s demanding a

And this, friends, brings us to 1 Corinthians 3:2 KJV: “I have

full buffet. But alas, the milk bar is underperforming. In fact,

fed you with milk, and not with meat: for hitherto ye were not able to

let’s call it what it is: closed for renovations.

bear it…”

Now, in newborn economics, milk is currency. And our little CEO is bankrupt.

Each day, the scales whisper bad news: down another

Look, Paul gets it. This verse? It’s the New Testament equivalent of Baby Nutrition 101. Sometimes you’re just not ready for steak. You’re barely hanging in there with strained

ounce. Then another. Until suddenly, this once-fluffy cherub

peas. But you know what you can handle? Milk. Sweet, creamy,

is losing weight like it's trying to win a reality TV show called

miracle-working milk.

“Newborns: Drop the Ounces!” At this point, the baby has lost

That baby wasn’t ready for meat. It wasn’t even ready for

nearly half its birth weight. HALF. This is no longer a baby; it’s

solid sleep. But give it the right milk—and boom: life returns.

a raisin with a personality.

Growth happens. Hope is restored.

Family, doctors, and random aunts with unsolicited

And in the grand spiritual metaphor of it all, aren’t we all

advice gather around like it’s a crisis summit. The diagnosis?

just squalling little newborns sometimes? Spiritually anemic,

Insufficient volume. The milk factory has not only gone on

underweight from too much stress and not enough grace,

strike—it didn’t even clock in for the first shift. Chaos ensues.

trying to muscle our way through life when what we really need is a good old-fashioned feeding.

The baby is still noble and

So, whether you’re a new parent

determined, sucking away like it’s trying

staring at the bottle praying for

to extract milk from a rock. But the scales

ounces, or a weary soul in need of a

don’t lie, and neither do the skinny thighs. The

little sustenance, remember: there

onesie is baggy. The baby hat keeps falling

is milk. It might not come how

over its eyes. People start referring to it as

or when you expected. But

“petite,” which is adult code for “is that

when it arrives?

baby okay?”

It nourishes. It transforms.

But then. Oh, then. A miracle.

It gives life.

Somewhere between desperation

And yes—eventually, meat

and delirium, someone discovers a milk

will come. But for now, pass

substitute—let’s call it “Liquid Gold:

the milk. The baby’s hungry.

The Sequel.” Maybe it’s formula. Maybe

And frankly, so are we.

it’s donated breast milk. Maybe it’s made by angels and shipped overnight Whatever it is, it flows, and the baby drinks.

12 // January 2026

About The Author

via a heavenly Amazon Prime account.

Charles Finney—minister of inspirational Good News, retired various positions and industries, management and operational, freelance writer, author of “Grandpa-Good News From The Good Feel Cornfield.” Writings are a remembrance of family, farm life and church upbringing to be a blessing to all!

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Gò0dNews for Women

Winter’s Reflections

T

by Danette Reeves

he beauty of fall turned into the cold, bleakness of

wool.” My sin is black and dark. It stands in opposition

winter. I enjoy the colors of fall and the reprieve from

to the purity of God. It sets me in hostility toward the

the sweltering heat, but I dread winter. I do not like

Almighty with no hope of entering into a relationship with

the long hours of darkness or the frigid temperatures. But

Him. The starkness of my sin against His holiness is vivid.

sometimes, in the South, we get a surprise: SNOW!

Yet, His solution is even more intense. He sent Jesus, His perfect, pure, innocent Son, to shed His blood for my black sin. And He washed me white as snow.

I do not pretend to understand how this amazing work of God produces righteousness in me. I cannot fathom how the Holy God chooses to love His sinful creatures. Yet, I know it is real.

His love and sacrifice for me covered all the stains of my sin and washed me white as snow. Jesus made the way for me to come into God's holy presence.

There are no words that truly express my gratefulness. I stand in awe!

James Nicholson wrote a hymn in the 1800s that reminds me of the transforming power of God's work, titled

Snowflakes fall from the gray skies, covering the brown

Whiter Than Snow.

ground like a blanket. The darkness disappears in the

Lord Jesus, I long to be perfectly whole;

brightness of the deepening snow. The ground glistens like

I want Thee forever to live in my soul,

diamonds when the sun lights it up. The trees appear lively

Break down every idol, cast out every foe;

and brilliant as the snow lies on the once-vacant branches.

Now wash me and I shall be whiter than snow.

The atmosphere is so quiet that the silence resonates.

Whiter than snow, yes, whiter than snow,

What was once bleak and unwelcoming is now lively and beautiful. The dark has become bright. What appeared lifeless and dead is now cheerful and dazzling. Everything is shimmering white. And then, a stunning red cardinal alights on the blanketed ground. The starkness of the vivid red cardinal against the pristine white snow is incredible.

At that moment, Isaiah 1:18 NASB becomes real in my

Now wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.

I am thankful for this winter season, which has been a profound reminder of the reality of God's love for His human creations. It has been a stark reminder of His work in my life—a work only He can do. It's as vivid as a bright red cardinal on a pristine, undisturbed blanket of snow.

LORD, “Though your sins be as scarlet, they will be as white as snow; Though they be red like crimson, they will be like

14 // January 2026

About The Author

heart. “Come, now, and let us reason together,” says the

Danette Reeves and her husband, Charlie, live in Cleveland, Tennessee. 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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Catoosa County 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 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 2 E Gate Drive Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-6183 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 5994 N Hwy 27 Lafayette, Ga 30728 706-764-2212 Clearview Baptist Church 2183 Dietz Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-866-0164 Cloud Springs Baptist Church 207 Cloud Springs Road Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 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 Ft. Oglethorpe 2645 LaFayette Road Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-0232 First Baptist Church of Ringgold 7611 Nashville Street Ringgold, GA 30736 706-935-2358 Friendship Primitive Baptist Church 851 Ooltewah Ringgold Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-935-2382 Gospel Way Baptist Church 31 Bowling Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-891-9866 Grace Baptist Church 7638 Nashville Street Ringgold, GA 30736 706-965-7969 Harvest Baptist Church of the Deaf 1314 Old Three Notch Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-375-7107 Video Call: 706-956-0445 Heritage Pointe Baptist Church 60 Dyer Bridge Place Ringgold, GA 30736 706-858-0976 Hickory Grove Baptist Church 5010 Houston Valley Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-673-6999 Keith Baptist Church 1573 Keith Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-450-0963

16 // January 2026

Lakeview First Baptist Church 10 Hudson Street Rossville, GA 30741 706-861-4262 Living Faith Baptist Church Highway 41 Ringgold, GA 30736 706-891-1817 Midway Baptist Church Highway 41 North Ringgold, GA 30736 706-937-2317 Moriah Baptist Church 2864 Battlefield Parkway Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-8843 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 Nellie Head Memorial Baptist 2379 Catoosa Parkway Tunnell Hill, GA 30755 706-935-5236 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 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 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 Shiloh Baptist Church 24 Kay Street Rossville, GA 30741 706-861-4359 Victory Baptist Church 1013 Layfayette Road Rossville, GA 30741 706-866-0371 Welcome Hill Baptist Church 223 Inman Street Ringgold, GA 30736 706-965-4814

Catholic Saint Gerard Catholic Church 3049 Lafayette Road Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-861-9410 Church of Christ Cohutta Road Church of Christ 2233 Mount Vernon Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-935-3884 Fort Oglethorpe Church of Christ 6 Harker Road Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-4124 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 Battlefield Ministries Church 64 3rd Street Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-9090 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 265 Poplar Springs Rd, Ringgold, GA 30736 706-279-3175 Episcopal Church of the Nativity 1520 Cross Street Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-9773 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 Fairview UMC 2112 McFarland Avenue Rossville, GA 30741 423-653-1043 Fort Oglethorpe UMC 1733 Battlefield Parkway Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-820-6314 Graysville UMC 2331 Graysville Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-891-9253 Newnan Springs UMC 78 Monanaw Avenue Rossville GA 30741 706-866-6724 Ringgold UMC 7484 Nashville Street Ringgold, GA 30736 706-935-4777

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 Church of Faith Highway 41 South Ringgold, GA 30736 706-937-7729 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 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 Living Waters Ministries 1337 Battlefield Pkwy Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 423-255-8655 New Life Church PO Box 1973 Ringgold, GA 30736 706-866-7799 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 Venue Church 3969 Cloud Springs Road Ringgold, GA 30736 423-637-7100 Woodstation Church 13198 Alabama Highway Ringgold, GA 30736 706-965-3360 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 First Presbyterian Church 1 Harker Road Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-2521 Hope Fellowship 2000 Twin Cedars Rd Chickamauga, GA 30707 hopefellowshipepc.org Morton Memorial 560 Red Belt Rd.

Chickamauga, GA 30707 706-338-7176 Seventh-Day Adventist

Battlefield Community SDA Church 96 Hillman Lane Ringgold, GA 30736 706-861-5999

Lookout Mountain SDA Church 6083 Hwy 157 (Atop Lookout Mtn) Rising Fawn, GA 30738

423-362-3158 Grand Center Baptist Church of Chickamauga 1753 Grand Center Rd Chickamauga, GA 706-375-8505 Happy Home Baptist Church 704 N Chattanooga St. LaFayette, GA 30728 Harbor Light Baptist Church 600 Crane St. LaFayette, GA 30728 423-605-0917 LaFayette 2nd Baptist Church 500 W Main Street LaFayette, GA 30728 706-638-2779 Lafayette First Baptist Church 201 N Main St, LaFayette, GA 30728 706-638-3727 Lake Howard Baptist Church 1528 Lake Howard Rd. LaFayette, GA 30728 423-304-4990 Linwood Baptist Church 18 Steele St. LaFayette, GA 30728 706-638-6527 Liberty Baptist Church 1334 Johnson Rd. Chickamauga, GA 30707 706-375-3859 Lookout Baptist Church 8645 Highway 193 Chickamauga, GA 706-931-2356 Macedonia Baptist Church 12461 E Highway 136 LaFayette, GA 30728 Marble Top Baptist Church 7131 N Marble Top Rd Chickamauga, GA 706-375-3536 Mt Hermon Baptist Church 2373 Hog Jowl Rd Chickamauga, GA 706-858-5650 Naomi Baptist Church 4171 E Highway 136 LaFayette, GA 30728 706-638-4601 New Harvest Missionary Baptist Church 2034 Highway 337 LaFayette, GA 30728 706-764-6257 New Home Baptist Church 256 New Home Rd. LaFayette, GA 30728 North LaFayette Baptist Church 1649 N Main St LaFayette, GA 30728 Oakwood Baptist Church 115 Oakwood St Chickamauga, GA 706-375-5760 Peavine Baptist Church 1089 Peavine Rd Rock Springs, GA 706-375-4721 Prospect Baptist Church 194 Prospect Church Rd LaFayette, GA 30728 706-397-2908 Ridgeview Baptist Church 1001 Magnolis St. LaFayette, GA 30728 334-300-4733 Ridgeway Baptist Church 1594 Ridgeway Rd. LaFayette, GA 30728 706-638-6832 Rock Springs Baptist Church 194 E Turnipseed Rd Rock Springs, GA 706-810-8199 Shield Baptist Church 12684 N Highway 27 Chickamauga, GA 706-375-2554 Shiloh Baptist Church 46 Manning Mill Rd.

LaFayette, GA 30728 706-397-8427 Sunnyside Baptist Church 3573 Round Pond Rd. LaFayette, GA 30728 423-364-9701 True Life Baptist Church 1115 N Main St. LaFayette, GA 30728 706-996-8571 Walnut Grove Baptist Church 55 Walnut Grove Rd. LaFayette, GA 30728 706-638-1377 Woodstation Baptist Church 42 Round Pond Rd. LaFayette, GA 30728 706-764-1794 Catholic Our Lady of the Mount Catholic Church 1227 Scenic Hwy, Lookout Mountain, GA 30750 706-820-0680 Church of Christ Church Of Christ 105 Crittenden Ave Chickamauga, GA 706-375-2222 Highway 27 Church of Christ 1684 S Highway 27 LaFayette, GA 30728 706-638-4644 Lafayette Church of Christ 104 W Main St. LaFayette, GA 30728 706-638-1890 Steele Street Church of Christ 4 Steele St. LaFayette, GA 30728 423-505-9583 Church of God Catlett Community Church 122 Round Pond Rd. LaFayette, GA 30728 423-309-4649 Cooper Heights Church of God 12598 Highway 193 Chickamauga, GA 423-903-3759 Cove Road Church of God 620 N Chattanooga St LaFayette, GA 30728 678-467-6982 Covenant Life Worship Center 7001 Lafayette Rd Chickamauga, GA 706-375-5286 LaFayette First Church of God 301 Daugherty St. LaFayette, GA 30728 706-639-7329 LaFayette Church of God 1002 S Main St. LaFayette, GA 30728 706-450-0872 Noble Church of God 75 Glass Rd. LaFayette, GA 30728 706-764-1093 Jehovah’s Witness Kingdom Hall 457 Rodrunner Blvd.

LaFayette, GA 30728 706-638-4342 Methodist Elizabeth Lee Methodist Church 139 Cove Rd Chickamauga, GA 706-375-2182 LaFayette First United Methodist Church 301 S. Main Street LaFayette, GA 30728 (706) 638-2057 Rock Spring Methodist Church 3477 Peavine Rd Rock Springs, GA 30739 706-375-5345

Ringgold Seventh-Day Adventist Church 124 Kittle Street Ringgold, GA 30736 706-935-3741

Walker County Church Directory

Assembly of God Cross Connection 703 N Main St. LaFayette, GA 30728 706-639-3303 Gospel Tabernacle Assembly of God 1661 Highway 27 Chickamauga, GA Baptist Antioch Baptist Church 236 Crow Gap Road Chickamauga, GA 706-539-1117 Bethel Baptist Church 4068 S Highway 341 Chickamauga, GA 706-375-3756 Bethlehem Baptist Church 278 Oak Grove Road Chickamauga, GA 706-375-2797 Bethel Memorial Baptist Church 198 Pledger St. LaFayette, GA 30728 706-638-2995 Bethesda Baptist Church 13432 Highway 151 LaFayette, GA 30728 706-638-9450 Calvary Baptist Church 908 Bronco Rd. LaFayette, GA 30728 706-638-8710 Cassandra Baptist Church 1371 W Cove Rd Chickamauga, GA 706-539-1046 Center Grove Baptist Church 68 Center Grove Church Rd Rock Springs, GA 706-764-2060 Center Point Baptist Church 118 Center Point Rd. LaFayette, GA 30728 706-764-1753 Chattanooga Baptist Church 7300 Highway 337 LaFayette, GA 30728 Christ First Church 5994 N Hwy 27 Lafayette, GA 30728 (706) 764-2212 Christian Home 2518 Garretts Chapel Rd Chickamauga, GA 423-313-5230 Community Baptist Church 14 Kemp Rd. LaFayette, GA 30728 706-638-1774 Corinth Baptist Church 2524 Corinth Rd. LaFayette, GA 30728 706-638-3963 East Armuchee Baptist Church 3196 E. Armuchee Rd. LaFayette, GA 30728 706 375-4512 Emanuel Baptist Church 639 S Main St. LaFayette, GA 30728 706-638-1751 Faith Baptist Church of Chickamauga 14251 Highway 193 Chickamauga, GA 423-760-8895 First Baptist Church 603 7th St Chickamauga, GA 706-375-2733 Friendship Baptist Church 1200 N Chattanooga St. LaFayette, GA 30728 706-638-3560 Garrett’s Chapel Baptist Church 3235 Garretts Chapel Rd Chickamauga, GA 706-375-6708 Grace Baptist Tabernacle 27 Jones Rd Rock Springs, GA

Non-Denominational Battlefield of Life Worship Center 56 Kevin Ln. Rock Springs, GA 770-827-6718 Calvary Chapel Refinery 101 E Peachtree St, Rossville, GA 30741 706-806-9444 Care Mission 105 N Chattanooga St. LaFayette, GA 30728 706-638-3664 Cowboy Church of Lafayette 196 County Line Rd, Rock Spring, GA 30739 423-596-7227 Faith Worship Center 200 S. Chattanooga St. LaFayette, GA 30728 423-313-7035 Gospel Light Christian Fellowship 36 Fortune St. LaFayette, GA 30728 706-996-8535 Hope Fellowship 2000 Twin Cedars Rd Chickamauga, GA 30707 706-375-4673 Life Gate Church 204 N Main St. LaFayette, GA 30728 706-638-7620 Mission Bridge Church 807 N Main St. LaFayette, GA 30728 423-364-6771 Mount Zion Church 223 Dunwoody Rd. LaFayette, GA 30728 706-638-1238 New Bethel Christian Fellowship 4009 Round Pond Rd. LaFayette, GA 30728 706-638-6904

Power of Life LaFayette Church 798 W Main St LaFayette, GA 30728 423-596-7034 River of Life Church 807 W. Maqin St. LaFayette, GA 30728 423-596-7034 The Haven - LaFayette 415 Chestnut St. LaFayette, GA 30728 706-996-8150

Presbyterian Chickamauga Presbyterian Church 700 7th Street Chickamauga, GA (706) 375-3432 Highland Presbyterian Church 1211 W Noth Main St. LaFayette, GA 30728 706-638-8940 Lafayette Presbyterian Church 107 N Main St. LaFayette, GA 30728 706-638-3932 Quaker New Friendship Baptist Church 281 Friendship Rd Chickamauga, GA 706-375-7198 Wesleyan Gordon Lake Weslyan Church 29 Gordon Lake Rd. LaFayette, GA 30728 706-638-6517

goodnewscm.com // 17

Gò0dNews for Marriage

The Cure?

H

by Carl W. Corser

ow many diseases is science attempting to discover a cure

It does not provide a cure for wandering eyes, the urge to lust,

for today? How many television ads do we see, telling

the tendency to yield to sexual misbehavior, and so much more. If

us that their medicine is the perfect cure for what ails us?

it did, then the word 'adultery' wouldn't be in our vocabulary or

Doesn’t it seem that the television ad market today is consumed

mentioned so many times in Scripture. In fact, adultery wouldn't

with medicine solutions?

even exist. Would the word ‘lust’ exist either? Are these behavioral

How many social behaviors is the psychological world attempting to cure for us? How many medications are being

actions any respecter of persons?

Lots of couples think that rushing into marriage will solve all

advertised on television promising us that they will cure all of our

of their relationship challenges. But, in actuality, it creates bigger

emotional instability?

responsibilities, which creates bigger challenges, which adds more

“The Marriage Cure” is continuously sought for many

frustration to their lives. Tying the marriage knot will soon become

different items in many different areas. What shall we do? The

a big “ouch” in their lives when it begins to unravel their marriage.

world always seems to have an answer.

If we evaluate our lives, how many people in our society really need “The Marriage Cure”?

There's one cure that affects so many people without their realization. That cure is "The Marriage Cure.” It's strongly believed in our society today that it will cure lots of difficulties in a couple's

“The Marriage Cure” should provide couples the basis to encourage each other in self-control. It should become an opportunity for a marriage to be pleasant and successful. Selfcontrol is very difficult and painful at times, but the rewards are long-lasting in a beautiful marriage relationship.

If we exercise wisdom in our marriage decisions though,

relationship if they accelerate the wedding plans. That is true to

which is “The Marriage Cure,” and put God first, share praise

some extent.

for and of each other, have faith in each other's capabilities and abilities, be a warrior in the protection of the marriage union, be disciplined as Joseph used self-control toward Pharaoh's wife, then our marriage knot will not unravel because we’ve applied the proper medicine, “The Marriage Cure.”

If it does become destroyed, it's because couples have ignored “The Marriage Cure” advice and allowed its pillars and foundations to crumble. Many marriages will end in destruction, being plagued with relationship issues, without “The Marriage Cure.”

While the medical and psychological fields heavily advertise their cures, those cures are all flawed and imperfect. If God is at the center of our marriages, He’s the only unflawed and perfect cure in our world. God is “The Marriage Cure.” He is the answer for all

Marriage does alleviate a few problems concerning the relationship, especially in the religious arena, but most likely, a commitment in marriage magnifies the already present and stressful relationship challenges. The signature on the marriage license brings

marriage relationship illnesses. God’s medicine for relationships is capable of doing miracles within our marriages.

May God help us all to guard our marriage relationships well.

It’s a proven fact that people living in happy and healthy

with it finality, which causes the current couple’s challenges to

marriages tend to live happy, healthier, and longer lives. What

multiply and magnify greatly.

about “The Marriage Cure" magic? Is it?

Cure” cure? Maybe the need for companionship, intimacy, or stability?

What does “The Marriage Cure” not cure?

18 // January 2026

About The Author

Marriage does not fix everything. So, what does “The Marriage Carl Corser is an ordained bishop, author of a devotion book, “Living Past Sunday,” business owner, farmer, author of a devotion website, carlcorser.com. Carl has pastored several churches.

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FEATURED COVER STORY

Gary Thacker Insurance Agency: Neighbors First. Advisors Always.

E

very great hometown has a few businesses that feel more like neighbors than companies. Gary Thacker Insurance Agency is one of them. They’ve earned

a reputation for protecting local families with industry expertise, heart, and a healthy sense of humor. Under Gary Thacker’s photo on their website, he states, “Forty-three years of insurance experience, longer than most of the world has been alive!”

Jeremy Thacker shares, “We’re a family-owned, independent agency, serving this community since 1997.

When we say ‘community,’ we mean it. We live here; our kids go to school here; we worship here; we shop here. We invest time and support into local schools, causes, and organizations because this is home.”

Why Local Still Matters At the Gary Thacker agency, insurance isn’t a transaction.

It’s a relationship.

When a family has a fire, when a storm hits, when a new teen driver goes on the policy, when a small business grows and takes on new risk—you want someone who knows your name, understands your world, and can explain the tradeoffs clearly.

Jeremy Thacker explains, “That’s what we mean by being neighbors first and advisors always.”

20 // January 2026

Why Rising Insurance Rates Make Good Coverage—and a Trusted Local Agency—More Important Than Ever

If your rates increase, you are not alone, and it’s not the time to panic-shop.

Jeremy Thacker shares, “We’ve been having that conversation every day across North Georgia and the Chattanooga area: good people, careful drivers, responsible homeowners—still seeing increases and wondering what changed.”

“At Gary Thacker Insurance, we get it. A higher bill is frustrating, especially when you haven’t filed a claim. Our job is to explain why, verify your coverage is actually right, and make sure you’re positioned with a stable company—not just the cheapest number on a screen.”

Why Rates Are Rising (in Plain English) Insurance rates are built around the cost of claims—what it actually costs to repair a vehicle, rebuild a home, replace damaged property, and handle liability. When those costs rise across the market, premiums follow.

Here are the big drivers behind the scenes: • Severe weather and more expensive home claims When severe weather events hit in volume, claim totals grow, and insurance companies adjust pricing to match the new reality.

• Higher rebuilding costs Materials and labor are higher today than a few years ago. And the more complex the repair, the more those costs stack up.

• Longer repair timelines When contractors are backed up or parts take longer to arrive, claims get more expensive. On the auto side, delays can also drive up related costs like rental coverage (subject to policy limits/terms).

Why “Cheaper” Can Be a Bad Deal There’s the “why” behind rising costs. Now here’s the part that matters most.

Jeremy continues, “When someone tells us they found a cheaper quote online, we don’t dismiss it—we compare it. In today’s market, cheaper often happens for one of these reasons: • “Liability limits were lowered (more financial risk on you if something serious happens).

• “Deductibles were raised (more out-of-pocket when you need help most).

“Secondly, we verify your coverage. We examine limits, deductibles, and the details that determine how a claim is actually paid.

“Thirdly, we shop intelligently. Because we’re independent, we can compare options across carriers to see whether there’s a better fit. And here’s what we’re seeing constantly: a renewal increase that feels big—say 20%—is often still the best value once coverages match correctly.

Many ‘replacement quotes’ come back far higher when you compare apples-to-apples.

“Finally, the fourth factor is we protect stability. A policy is only as good as the company and the claims response behind it. When life happens, you want a carrier that’s present, consistent, and fair—not one that disappears or changes the rules midstream.”

A Few Local, Practical Ways to Reduce Loss Severity You can’t control the weather or the cost of lumber; but you can reduce the likelihood or severity of many claims: Home

• “Home claims settle differently (Actual Cash Value vs.

Replacement Cost).

• Keep up with routine maintenance (small issues become

• “Key coverages were removed (sometimes quietly).

• Inspect the roof periodically and fix minor problems early

“So yes, you can often find a cheaper premium. The real question is: cheaper for the same protection—or cheaper because the protection is thinner?”

Insurance is one of the few purchases where the real value shows up only when something goes wrong.

The “Replacement Cost” Conversation Every Homeowner Should Have One of the most important (and most misunderstood) parts of homeowners insurance is the difference between replacement cost and market value.

• Market value is what your home might sell for. It includes land value and local demand.

• Replacement cost is what it would cost to rebuild the home itself if it was destroyed—using today’s local labor and material costs.

A home can sell for more than it costs to rebuild (or the

big claims) • Winterize seasonal or secondary properties Auto • Defensive driving

• Undistracted driving

• Slowing down in bad weather and giving extra space These steps don’t always create an immediate discount, but they can reduce the chances of a serious loss.

Plan a visit with this team about preparing for your next chapters or maintaining your current one. Check out their website, www.garythackerinsurance.com, for all sorts of information. Visit them at 2382 Battlefield Pkwy, Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742, during office hours Monday through Friday 9 AM–5 PM. Or call (706) 866-8283.

The Gary Thacker team can walk alongside you whether you need personal insurance, home insurance, business,

reverse), depending on land, location, and demand. That’s

or commercial insurance. You can rely on them for vehicle

why using market value to set dwelling coverage can leave a

insurance whether auto, motorcycle, RV, or watercraft. Life

family underinsured after a major loss.

holds chapter after chapter. This team can keep you prepared

This is where a real review matters—not a quick form and

for what’s happening now or what’s coming next with

an automated number. The folks at Gary Thacker Insurance

wedding insurance, pet insurance, long-term disability, IRAs,

know how to help.

or annuities. Don’t know what some of that is? No worries.

Jeremy emphasizes, “Our job is to help set a dwelling limit that makes sense and stays current as costs change. With rates rising, our process has become even more hands-on and

They’ll explain it in plain English because they are neighbors first, advisors always.

more educational: “First, we explain what changed, not in industry language, but in real terms you can understand.

goodnewscm.com // 21

Gò0dNews for Everyone Looking for Jesus in All the Wrong Places

T

by Chaplain Filip Brunner

he book of Genesis is the book filled with “firsts.”

immediately. Unlike us, God is not limited by time and

The first time anything was created. The first

He does not work on our timetable. So, the “seed of the

time we learn about God and the first time we learn

woman” comes through the virgin in Nazareth “in the

about the man who will bruise the head of the serpent.

fullness of time.”

“And I will put enmity between thee and the woman,

My reconciliation with God rests on His shoulders,

and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head,

not on mine. The proverb: “when the student is ready, the

and thou shalt bruise his heel” (Genesis 3:15 NIV).

master appears” is true. It is not when I found Jesus but

So who is this person? When will he get here to set things right?

We are not told outright, but consider this, is it possible

when Jesus found me.

Now that we understand “when” is Jesus, let us turn to “where” is Jesus. At times, it is possible that Jesus is not where

that Eve had the idea that the serpent’s head bruiser would

we expect Him to be. My aunt and uncle were under the

come through her and that in her lifetime?

impression that because they lived in a Christian country that

“And Adam knew Eve his wife; and she conceived, and bare Cain, and said, I have gotten a man from the LORD” (Genesis 4:1 KJV).

“And Adam knew his wife again; and she bare a son,

they were by default Christians. But, how does that stack up?

When Jesus was a boy, Mary and Joseph went to Jerusalem for the annual Passover. On the way back, Jesus stayed in Jerusalem in the temple. When they finally

and called his name Seth: For God, said she, hath appointed

noticed that Jesus was not with them, they returned to

me another SEED instead of Abel, whom Cain slew”

Jerusalem. Just like any good parent would ask: “We looked

(Genesis 4:25 KJV).

everywhere for you, where have you been?” The answer

It is evident from verse 25 that Eve believed that the savior of the world would come

Jesus gives may seem rude: “And he said unto them, How is it that ye sought me? wist ye not that I must be about my Father's business?”(Luke 2:49 KJV).

Jesus is where He needs to be, not where we suppose Him to be.

Lastly, let’s understand where Jesus is “not.”

After the crucifixion, the body of Jesus is placed into a tomb carved out of stone and a round stone was placed in front of it. It is sealed and guarded. In the morning, some women come to the tomb but the body of Jesus is gone. An angel asks: “Why seek ye the living among the dead?” (Luke 24:5b KJV).

Jesus is not in the

22 // January 2026

About The Author

grave. He is alive!

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

He is a writer, author, and artist.

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Gò0dNews for Parents

Noah and God's Help: Genesis 9

P

by Jonathon Wright

arents have the huge responsibility to mentor their children in the ways of the Lord. Discipline is not always pleasant for the parent or the child. The Lord

had to punish the world for their wickedness. But He chose to save Noah and his family in the ark. After the Flood, God had a tender conversation with His children. He promised never to destroy the earth again by flood. God wanted His children to know that He loved them.

Good parents know how to show their love even when they have to punish their children. They also point their children to God as the ultimate source of help. Here are four

3. God helped Noah in his struggle for justice.

He gave Noah's family and the world the right to defend

ways God showed His love and help to Noah and his family.

themselves and carry out justice. Justice was one life for one

1. God removed the curse on the ground, blessing the land and Noah’s family.

life. Whoever shed the blood of man would also have his blood shed by man. (Genesis 9:2-6). In the beginning, God

I can almost hear Noah and those present rejoicing

didn’t allow man the right to take care of justice. God told

when they heard the good news! They had struggled for so

Adam that whoever killed Cain would suffer a sevenfold

many years with the unyielding ground. Afterwards, the

vengeance from Him. See Genesis 4. After the Flood, the

Lord told Noah and his descendants to be fruitful, multiply,

Lord lifted His stern restriction. Good parents teach their

and fill the earth. This decree reminds us of God’s original

kids justice, fair play, and the value of all human life.

intentions for man in Genesis 1. His grace brought a new

4. A Covenant And Sign (Genesis 9:8-17).

opportunity for them to live the abundant life the Lord

The Lord made a covenant with Noah, his

called them to. Kids need to know, after they have been

descendants, and the rest of the world. He promised

punished, that their parents still love them. It helps them

never again to destroy the earth or all living things with

better understand God's love and forgiveness.

a flood and then gave a beautiful sign. God gave them a

2. God helped Noah with the world's animal problem.

brief glimpse of Heaven through His rainbow. Revelation

We haven’t heard much about the animals in the Bible

4:3 describes a rainbow near the throne of God in Heaven.

thus far. But, the animals may have been a major problem

The Lord set the rainbow in the clouds as a reminder of

and a threat to the world's survival. In Genesis 9:2-6, God

His everlasting covenant.

put fear in the heart of every beast. He also mentions

Later, Christ introduced a New Covenant. He gave the

demanding a reckoning for every beast that shed the blood

world the opportunity of eternal life with Him. See John

of man.

3:16-17, John 14:1-4, and Hebrews 8 for more information on

Were the animals calm and peaceful when the world began? Did man’s violence and wickedness make them

the New Covenant.

Do our children see and know about the beautiful things that God has done in our lives? It has the power to inspire

about the existence of dinosaurs during this time. Either

their faith. Praise God for He is faithful, and sent His Son

way, I am glad the Lord stepped in! Good parents know

Jesus as a sign of His love.

when to step in, help their kids, and show their love in practical ways.

24 // January 2026

About The Author

angry and cause them to snap? There are many questions

Jonathon Wright loves the Lord and uses writing as a way to share his faith.

See jonathonwright7.wordpress.com and jwright231.substack.com for more.

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Gò0dNews for Kids

Chatty Critters and Friends: What’s all the Buzz about?

by Jan Merop

H

ello, Kids! This article is part of our Chatty Critters series.

a human! Just sweaty flesh and a hand ready to smash me! But

Check in future issues for another installment in this series.

if they get too close and I feel threatened, then my stinger is

Buzz! Buzz! Buzz!

my ready defense. Quite often many of my fellow worker bees

Hey, Kids! Where does a queen live? If you said, “In a

will help me swarm all around the intruder. Actually, I want

castle,” you’d be right—most of the time. But, there is a very

humans to like me and respect the work I do, and appreciate

different kind of queen who lives in a special place.

the sweet honey I produce for them.

Can you guess? That’s right!

She is a queen bee and lives in a hive. Her bee hive

Did you know that my Creator God has high regard for honey? He promised the children of Israel to give them

is her castle where she rules.

“a land flowing with milk and honey.” That was

A bee hive is a beautifully

God’s way of telling them that He would

designed house that has

provide a beautiful and fertile

waxen cells where the honey

place where they would have

is stored very neatly and

everything they needed. Even

orderly. Besides its curious

King David, who really did live

design, the buzzing sound lets

in a castle, has some things to say

you know you have found my home.

The queen bee is served by all the worker bees. I’m a worker bee, so I know what I’m talking about.

My queen is larger than the rest of us and there is

about honey. Read the Bible and see!

Exploring Truth Through God’s Creation “How sweet are your words to my taste,

only one queen bee in a hive at a time. She does not leave

sweeter than honey to my mouth!”

the hive to gather honey. That is why she has workers like me. If she says, “I’m hungry,” one of the worker bees is always there to serve her and give her all the honey she needs.

King David wrote that God’s Word is, “More to be desired…than gold…sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb”

Worker bees are obedient and loyal. In fact, if anything happens to the queen, the workers leave their work until she’s restored or another queen takes her place. Workers will refuse to eat and will die without the queen.

When I saw the camera man taking my picture, I had no time to pose. My Creator made me to be very useful. I had a job

(Psalms 119:103; 19:10 NKJV).

The Honey Bee and You You are given 24 hours in a day.

How are you going to spend those hours?

Be useful like the bee and loyal to God.

to do and couldn’t give him my attention. Maybe you have seen

He wants your life to be fruitful and overflowing

me buzzing from flower to flower. I am seeking nectar from the

with love and kindness.

flower’s pollen. I store it in my body until I get back to the hive.

Bee-ware of anything that would distract you from God’s best for your life.

There the work continues.

I’m little; but when people hear me buzzing, that’s their usually start running if I get too close to them. I don’t want to chase them. There’s nothing sweet or nourishing about stinging

26 // January 2026

About The Author

warning to stay away. I’m harmless unless disturbed. People

Jan has been writing her weekly inspirational column, Pause...and Consider, for over 30 years, joyfully encouraging others in their Christian walk. She and her husband Ken have lived in Cleveland for about one year. They enjoy hospitality, Bible study, and walking and hiking in God’s marvelous creation. They have three married sons and five grandchildren and belong to the Church at Grace Point.

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Gò0dNews for Discovering More

Starting with MORE THAN

by Garrett Nudd

I

’ll admit I enjoy social media and I appreciate all the positives that social media provides such as discovering relatives I didn’t know I had and watching hilarious

videos of people falling unexpectedly into swimming pools.

But social media’s never-ending highlight reel makes it easy to compare what others have and what others do to ours.

Comparison isn’t limited to strangers and social media “friends,” sometimes siblings can be just as bad.

Early in the Bible we find the story of Joseph. Joseph was thrown into a pit by his brothers because they thought he was their father’s favorite. Have you ever noticed that in most cases, those closest to the favorite rarely like the favorite? So, when Joseph went to check on his brothers in the fields, they roughed him up and tossed him in a pit.

Really? Who does that to someone? Especially their sibling! Talk about making someone feel less than.

A group of travelers came along, and in one of the worst judgment calls in history, the brothers sold Joseph into slavery. They agreed to tell their father that their little brother had died, and they made a pact to never reveal the truth.

I come from a family of brothers. We’ve had our occasional minor differences, but we’ve never considered tossing each other into a pit or selling one another into slavery. Or if we have, I haven’t been included in the plans.

Even as a slave, Joseph was a hard worker, honest, and trustworthy. Eventually he earned the attention and respect of Potiphar, captain of Pharaoh’s guard. Potiphar then promoted Joseph to serve as his personal assistant. From a pit to a promotion, that’s definitely MORE THAN. The story has yet another twist. Eventually, Potiphar’s wife tried to seduce Joseph, but he refused her advances. To make a long soap opera short, Joseph was framed for a crime he didn’t commit and then imprisoned where he ended up interpreting the Pharaoh’s dreams. He convinced Pharaoh that there would be a famine and he should store up enough

life may have taken a dramatic turn for the worse multiple times, but his faithfulness positioned him to help sustain his people through several years of peril, and his commitment to God allowed him to save thousands of lives.

Years later, overcome by famine, Joseph’s brothers traveled to Egypt desperate for grain. Joseph recognized his brothers, but they did not recognize him. Before granting their request, he asked them to return home and bring their father and younger brother with them. Upon their return he revealed his identity. He forgave his brothers for their misdeeds, and there was great rejoicing.

God had used the jealousy of Joseph’s brothers for one of the biggest MORE THAN experiences in all of Scripture.

And He can use you too. Remember, when God gives you MORE THAN, He expects you to give MORE THAN so others can experience MORE THAN too.

You may not be thrown into a pit, sold into slavery, or framed for a crime you didn’t commit. In fact, I hope none of those things happen to you, but I guarantee God can take your everyday ordinary life and turn it into MORE THAN. As this year launches, are you ready for MORE THAN? Are you ready to approach everyday ordinary life with the expectation that God can take it and turn it into MORE THAN?

As a young man, Joseph’s life was simple, but God had big plans—MORE THAN plans—for Joseph. Joseph’s

28 // January 2026

About The Author

grain to sustain Egypt through seven years of famine.

Garrett Nudd serves as director of communications for AdventHealth Georgia. His recent book, MORE THAN: Discovering How Your Story Reveals God’s Beautiful Truth About You, challenges readers to shift their paradigm from less than to MORE THAN.

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Gò0dNews for Seniors

Cleaning Out the Clutter

I

by Dorothy Teague

t’s a brand-new year! Did you make any New Year’s

life, doing unrighteous deeds, and spewing hurtful words.

resolutions? I always have a few, which include losing

Anything that stirs up strife among a Christian and others

weight and cleaning out the clutter in my house. My

shouldn’t happen, but when it does, forgiveness must be

husband says I’m a nester. I like all my favorite things

asked for and given. Christians can also get sidetracked by

within arm’s reach at my spot in the living room. I’m also

doing good things for the wrong reasons. Like rungs on a

a collector, and my collections can overwhelm our home

ladder to Heaven, they climb higher and higher, trying to

at times.

outdo another, and the ladder gives way under their feet

I like to buy items that are a good deal, whether I

from doing God’s work with the wrong attitude of heart.

need them or not. That sales sign that says “fifty percent

It’s like the Tower of Babel—trying to reach Heaven

off” or “buy one, get one free” always gets my attention!

with manmade architecture. Like the Babylonians, we all can

So, I accumulate a lot of clutter in my house. But as I

sometimes have pride and arrogance in our hearts (Genesis

was thinking about how to get my cabinets and drawers

11). The Babylonians were proud that they all spoke one language, so God caused the people to suddenly speak different languages so that they couldn’t communicate or work together to build the great tower.

“The Lord detests all the proud of heart… they will not go unpunished” (Proverbs 16:5 NIV).

“Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall” (Proverbs 16:18 NIV).

It really all comes down to the right attitude of heart in what we do in God’s name.

“In those days Hezekiah was sick and near death. And Isaiah the prophet, the son of Amoz, went to him and said to

organized, I thought about the clutter that has built up in

him, ‘Thus says the Lord: “Set your house in order, for you

my mind and spirit in the past year. I’m talking about the

shall die and not live”’” (Isaiah 38:1 NKJV).

distractions that fill up my days and occupy my mind in

We, like the King, will one day die, and we need

place of prayer time and reading God’s Word. Also, feelings

to get our house in order as well. We all carry spiritual

of resentment or bitterness that are cluttering my heart need

baggage and clutter around with us, but “let us lay aside

to be swept out before they take up permanent residence.

every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us”

Cluttered lives tend to be filled with meaningless

(Hebrews 12:1 NKJV).

pursuits in search of happiness and fulfillment, especially

Just as I work on my physical house, cleaning and

for the unsaved (i.e., drugs, alcohol, sex, adrenaline highs).

organizing it to be more efficient, God wants me to get my

While not all pursuits are evil, they can waste precious time

spiritual house clean by sweeping out the clutter so that I

we could be using to serve in God’s kingdom. For instance,

can be productive in His name.

too much time on social media, shopping, talking—anything

Happy New Year!

Even though Believers have Christ to fill them, they can still clutter their lives by seeking the wrong path for their

30 // January 2026

About The Author

that takes God out of His rightful place in your life.

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.

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Gò0dNews for your Taste Buds Smoky Mountain Pinto Beans and Cornbread A taste of Appalachian winter comfort

I

n the quiet stillness of a Smoky Mountain winter, there’s something deeply satisfying about a simple pot of slow-simmered pinto beans and a hot skillet of

golden cornbread. For generations, Appalachian families have relied on hearty, humble meals like this to carry them through the coldest months. Who remembers a

Simple Skillet Cornbread: • 1 cup cornmeal • 1 cup all-purpose flour

grandparent saying, “You don’t need much—just beans,

• 1 tablespoon baking powder

bread, and someone to share it with”? This dish is more

• 1 teaspoon salt

than sustenance—it’s a piece of history, passed from hand to hand, pot to pot, hearth to hearth. As January rolls in

• 1 egg

with its gray skies and brisk air, this classic mountain meal

• 1 cup buttermilk

offers warmth, nourishment, and a comforting reminder of

• ¼ cup vegetable oil or melted bacon grease

simpler times.

• 2 tablespoons butter for greasing the skillet

Pinto Beans: • 1 lb dried pinto beans • 6 cups water • 1 small onion, diced • 1 ham hock or 4 slices thick-cut bacon • 1 teaspoon salt • ½ teaspoon black pepper • Optional: a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes

or a dash of hot sauce

Instructions: 1. Rinse the beans and soak overnight, or use the quicksoak method (boil 2 minutes, then let sit 1 hour).

2. Drain and place beans in a large pot with fresh water.

3. Add ham hock or bacon, onion, salt, and pepper.

4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Simmer uncovered for 2 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally, until beans are tender and creamy. Add water if needed.

5. Adjust seasoning to taste. Remove the ham hock and shred any meat back into the pot.

32 // January 2026

Instructions: 1. Preheat oven to 425°F. Place a cast-iron skillet with the butter in the oven to heat.

2. In a bowl, mix dry ingredients. In another bowl, beat the egg, then add buttermilk and oil. Combine wet and dry mixtures.

3. Pour batter into the hot, buttered skillet and bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown.

Serve together with chopped onions or chow-chow on the side, and you’ve got a Smoky Mountain classic to warm the soul.

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Gò0dNews Poetry

Intimidation

Y

by Rhonda Cross

ou crept in quiet, cloaked in fear,

Held by the One who broke the curse.

A whisper first, then sharp and clear.

No longer will I shrink or bow,

You told me I was weak and small,

My soul stands tall, unshaken now.

That I should run, that I would fall.

Your chains have cracked beneath my song,

You shadowed dreams with doubt and dread,

I’ve found where I belong all along.

Played wicked games inside my head.

For perfect love casts out all fear,

You mocked my voice, you stilled my praise,

And where He walks, you disappear.

You dimmed my fire with fearsome haze.

So leave, your lies can’t hold me down,

But I’ve been forged through fire and storm,

I wear my Savior’s victor’s crown.

You speak of fear? I’ve walked through worse.

34 // January 2026

About The Author

By hands divine, my heart was formed.

Rhonda Cross holds a M.A. in pastoral counseling and is a Church of God ordained minister.

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Gò0dNews for the Season

The Joy of January

T

by Sandra Gilmore

here’s a joy in January like no other month.

Have you noticed that January, unlike other months,

not return to it without watering the earth and making it bud and flourish, so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for

has its own rhythm? Other months seem to adapt to

the eater, so is my Word that goes out from my mouth: It will

schedules, wrap around agendas, even become the perfect

not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and

backdrop for gatherings or community events. Not January.

achieve the purpose for which I sent it” (Isaiah 55: 10-11 NIV).

This one-twelfth-of-the-year insists on having its own way.

Psalms echoes that same process: “He spreads the snow

January can send a pop-up snowstorm in its sleep. It can

like wool and scatters the frost like ashes. He hurls down his

welcome balmy temps with open arms and then send them

hail like pebbles. Who can withstand his icy blast? He sends his

packing as though their reservations ran out. January can

Word and melts them; he stirs up his breezes, and the waters

embrace ice as quickly as a diva dons diamonds.

flow” (Psalm 147: 16-18 NIV).

So how is that joyful?

Not only does this month usher in the start of a new year, January ushers in a cadence that’s unmistakable. Just about the time other voices are steadily and loudly raising cries to get motivated, gear up, and get stuff done, this top-of-theyear month’s message whispers softly like snowfall. And like snowfall, there’s quite enough evidence that it’s on the scene. Snow’s blanket covers a multitude of sins—such as the front flowerbeds that didn’t get weeded or the back deck that didn’t get painted in the busy summer. Snow transforms the landscape into a white canvas perfect for winter colors. There’s the ruby cardinal who flitters about finding both a perch and a provisional morsel. The emerald pines stand stoically with their

As January escorts us to another trip around the sun, how

evergreen branches. With the help of the sun, the snow and

will you enjoy this winter? Ecclesiastes declares: “To every

ice explode with color, tiny prisms that turn loose grounded

thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the

rainbows. There’s no doubt, a different season is on the scene.

heaven” (Ecclesiastes 3:1 KJV).

In past centuries, society went by the Roman calendar

Research hints at and even shows several benefits: We

which held 10 months, leaving winter or an extended “January”

sleep better in the colder months (or even in a colder room

as one season with no delineated months. Romans considered

throughout the year.) With better rest, cold temperatures, and a

winter a time of peace without deliberate effort in agriculture

slower pace, our minds yield more creative ideas. We humans

or war.

tend to postpone decisions or milestones in the summer, so

In fact, Scripture confirms this slower cadence of January and winter. In the Book of Job, we hear Elihu

winter could become the season to work through projects or tackle obligations. What will you tackle?

describing what the Lord set in motion: “He says to the

Or maybe, will you simply listen to the snow fall?

snow, ‘Fall to the earth,’ and to the rain shower, ‘Be a mighty

This article was first included in our January 2022 issue.

downpour.’ So that everyone He has made may know His Isaiah connects winter’s snow with the Word of the Lord: “As the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do

36 // January 2026

About The Author

work, He stops all people from their labor” (Job 37:6-7 NIV).

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

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 for Health & Fitness

How to Mirror God’s Rhythm of Rest

by Candyce Carden

I

usually love my group exercise class. The strength

consistent sound of ocean waves alters brainwave patterns

training routine is choreographed to ten tracks of music

and induces a restful state. Researchers say that simply

and almost makes working out fun. But in yesterday’s

gazing at a body of water calms us. Pausing to watch a

class, worry and a growing to-do list distracted me. I tried

sunset slows our inner rhythm.

to follow the instructor, but I wasn’t fully present. As my

Because most of us can’t be at the beach all the time or

thoughts wandered, I’d find myself off-beat. Instead of

live alone in a forest, we’re often surrounded by an excess of

syncing with the music, I mirrored the rhythm of a guy in

noise pollution and stressed-out individuals. But we can call

my peripheral vision. He continually “jumped the gun” and

timeouts to rest in God’s presence.

stayed two counts ahead of the music.

Grow Still

I’d resolve to block him out and focus on the instructor.

Then the process would happen all over again as my mind followed its thin stream of worry. Later, I recalled other examples of my environment determining my rhythm. For instance, when I commuted an hour to and from work, I’d find myself matching the speed of other drivers on the interstate. And I used to let the frantic pace of Christmas shoppers affect my tempo.

In Psalm 46:10 NLT, God cautions us to: “Be still, and know that I am God!” God’s rhythm is one of rest and stillness. When we block extraneous stimuli, we clear space for our Creator and hear Him more clearly. God’s rhythm is one of rest and stillness.

I struggled in exercise class because I didn’t keep my focus on the instructor. Likewise, when I don’t keep my gaze on Jesus, I fall into the world’s trap of frenzied living.

What if, instead of dragging my burdens to class, I had talked to God first and left my worries with Him? When we move toward God, He moves toward us. God’s presence is always available to us, but we have to seek it. When we feel ourselves mirroring a stressful pace, the briefest of pauses help calm and sync us to God’s rhythm.

Ten Ways to Rest in God’s Presence 1. Say a prayer.

2. Listen to music.

3. Play an ocean soundtrack.

4. Sip tea.

Mirroring the rhythms of our environment is a natural phenomenon. The Theory of Entrainment says rhythmic beings close to each other will gradually sync their movements. Crickets chirp in harmony and fireflies flash in unison. Even clocks with swinging pendulums hanging on the same wall eventually sync up. Aligning ourselves with our surroundings isn’t always a bad thing. My Fitbit shows a lower resting heart rate when I’m at the beach. Why? The

38 // January 2026

5. Sit in a pretty spot outdoors.

6. Listen to the birds or other sounds of nature.

7. Attend a sunset or sunrise.

8. Gaze upon water.

9. Take a leisurely walk.

10. Breathe slowly and deeply.

Which appeals to you, and what would you add to the list?

About The Author

Entrainment

Candyce Carden is a writer, educator, and nature lover. Her beach devotional, Immersed: Sixty Devotions to Wade Deeper, Dive In, and Surf the Wave of God’s Love will be released in 2026.

Subscribe to her newsletter at CandyceCarden.com.

Grateful for

PRECISION MEDICINE. EXPERT SUPPORT. RIGHT HERE.

When Dalton resident Dana Easley was diagnosed with stage 4 ovarian cancer, her world changed overnight. With six rounds of chemotherapy and a hysterectomy ahead, she leaned on her faith, her family, and the compassionate care she found at Peeples Cancer Institute.

Her care team, including Lisa Duhaime, MD, and oncology nurse practitioners Kim Bailey and Jaime Pesl, guided her through six rounds of chemotherapy before she could undergo a hysterectomy. Mrs. Easley says, “They listen, and they care. They don’t mind spending time with you. The whole staff is very caring.”

To help protect her hair during treatment, she chose to use the Paxman cold cap system. “It worked for me, and I did not lose all my hair,” she shares. She also connected with Boggs Boutique, where cosmetologist Stacey Gibson provided both practical and emotional support, helping her with makeup and hair care. “I love Stacey—she’s a lifesaver.”

This spring, Mrs. Easley rang the ceremonial bell at PCI after her scans showed no cancer. She continues on oral medication and a monthly infusion to help prevent recurrence.

VitruvianHealth.com/cancer 844-PCI-HOPE

She finds joy in the kitchen, cooking daily and sharing homemade meals with neighbors, family and friends.

She encourages others in similar situations to keep a positive outlook. She said, “surrounding yourself with positive people is important. Cards from friends make a big difference. It’s easy when you surround yourself with positive people. I just embrace every minute.”

With access to advanced treatments—including precision medicine, Phase III clinical trials with Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University, and the only ACR-Accredited Radiation Oncology Center within 50 miles of Chattanooga—we are here, grateful to walk beside patients who inspire us through their strength and healing.