June 2022 by GoodNews Catoosa

Gò0dNews June 2022

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About Us WRITERS

Dr. Alan Hix Andrew Lee Brian Branam Carl W. Corser Chad Van De Griek Chase Holtzclaw Danny Hesterly Jade Morgan John Garrod Jonathon Wright Judy Hood Karla Smedley Katie Loveless Kristen West Rosa Coker Shelley Knick Tim Marcum

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

DESIGN

Caleb Prytherch Email: art.goodnews@gmail.com

PHOTOGRAPHER Paula Knipp 423-310-4207

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GoodNews Christian Magazine Catoosa

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

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Contents JUNE 2022

GoodNews from the Pastor’s Desk

6 How To Cry (Part 1) by Brian Branam

GoodNews for Kids

8 A Cheerful Heart by Danny Hesterly

GoodNews Money Matters

10 Let’s Get Real (Estate) by Andrew Lee

GoodNews for Men

12 I am Man; Hear Me Kneel by John Garrod

GoodNews for Women

14 Fighting the Unseen Opponent

by Karla Smedley GoodNews for Couples

18 The Two Stones of Marriage by Carl W. Corser

GoodNews for Life

20 David And Nabal

by Jonathon Wright

GoodNews Cover Story

22 The Hippie Fitness by Rosa Coker

GoodNews Business Spotlight

24 Mountain View Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram

GoodNews for Everyone

26 Scoring For the Wrong Team by Kristen West

GoodNews Poetry

28 Our New Home by Judy Hood

GoodNews for Everyone

30 Give Our Hurts to God by Chad Van De Griek

GoodNews for Father’s Day

32 What Kind of Father Should

You Be?

by Dr. Alan Hix GoodNews for your Taste Buds

34 Peach Surprise by Tim Marcum

GoodNews for Everyone

36 Living Water

by Katie Loveless

GoodNews for Everyone

38 Praying Offensively by Jade Morgan

GoodNews for Everyone

40 Being Made in God’s Image by Chase Holtzclaw

GoodNews for Everyone

42 Walking With Molly—Part 2 by Shelley Knick

Gò0dNews for Everyone

How To Cry (Part 1)

by Brian Branam

here is a book of the Bible that teaches us how to

regret and remorse. He’s not getting through it as much

cry. Lamentations is the Scripture’s record of the

as he is thinking it through. He works at what the Lord

mournful reflections of the grief-stricken prophet

has brought him to. Jeremiah has worked at preaching;

Jeremiah following Jerusalem’s destruction. Here are

now, he will work at weeping. Your time in the Word

some takeaways from the Bible’s book of tears.

is essential, and so is your weeping. Take time in it and

Embrace It, Don’t Avoid It

work at it.

In a hedonistic culture, we put a premium on pleasure and the avoidance of pain. When there is a loss, we want to rush through it and get back to life. Jeremiah doesn’t rush through his sorrow; he records it. He shares

Devotional Challenge Read Lamentations 1-3 • Write down some of the emotions Jeremiah shares in these passages.

the sights, sounds, and emotions of the moment. He

• What do these passages teach you about the Lord?

reflects on what brought him to this place and sees the

• What do these passages teach you about some of

Lord’s purpose in it.

the actions we should take during times of lament?

“Is it nothing to you, all you who pass by? Look and see if there is any sorrow like my sorrow, which was brought upon me, which the Lord inflicted on the day of his fierce anger” (Lamentations 1:12). When it comes to sorrow, don’t rush it. Embrace it. Pause. Look around. Listen. Write it down. Answer the question, “Why am I here?” Work At It, Don’t Get Over It When it comes to Christian disciplines, we tend to think of actions like serving, witnessing, giving, worshipping, praying, and journaling. What about weeping? Should we not work at weeping as well? Lamentations is an action-packed book of the Bible. Jeremiah weeps. He grinds his teeth. He

If you are not in a time of lament, think back to your

remembers. He cries out. He groans. In Lamentations,

last time of great loss. Did you use that time to deepen

the Lord is at work. He crushes. He cuts down. He lays

your relationship with God, take corrective action, or

waste. He scorns.

did you rush through it? If you are currently in a time of

“He has filled me with bitterness; he has sated me

lament, use Lamentations to guide you through a time

with wormwood. He has made my teeth grind on gravel

of mourning that will help you deepen your relationship

and made me cower in ashes” (Lamentations 3:16-17).

with God and make some needed course corrections.

He is in a painful conversation with God that involves

6 // June 2022

About The Author

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

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Gò0dNews for Kids

A Cheerful Heart

by Danny Hesterly

t’s summer! That’s something to be excited about.

Now to me, the kitchen held different importance

Let’s shout it out loud together. It’s S-U-M-M-E-R!

because it had the only TV connected to the Nintendo. Also,

That felt pretty good, right? I treasure this time of

nearly equal in importance as the TV was our only window

year because the days are long, and it brings back many

air conditioning unit in the house. Summertime in Southern

wonderful memories.

Illinois can be blistering hot, and sleeping in my bedroom

Growing up, on the last day of school, I would have

with only a box fan pushing hot air around was not my idea

this jittery excitement because I knew what awaited the

of a cool summer. So, my siblings and I would sort of take

next 2 ½ months for me and my siblings. Summer brought

over the kitchen each summer, enjoying countless hours

this special privilege of getting to stay up late each night

with one another while enjoying the cool breeze from the

playing the newest Nintendo video games with my sister

good old AC (short for air-conditioning). Proverbs 15:13 says, “A cheerful heart brings a smile to your face; a sad heart makes it hard to get through the day.” Summer is a great time to have fun and make wonderful memories with your family and friends. Did you notice what this proverb or piece of wisdom said? It said, “a cheerful heart brings a smile to your face.” A cheerful heart is a heart full of gratitude. Another way you could say that is a cheerful heart is a thankful heart. When you’re thankful, you’re showing an appreciation for something or that you treasure something special. I treasured my summers growing up as a kid because I knew there were things

and brother. Now, I’m talking about the old-school Nintendo

I got to do that I normally didn’t do while school was

Entertainment System (NES), also known as the best gaming

happening. I was thankful that my mom shared the kitchen

console ever made (at least in my opinion).

with us each summer.

It was only in summer that my brother and sister and

Take a moment and write down or tell a parent, sibling,

I were allowed to sleep in the kitchen. The kitchen was a

or friend some of the things you’d like to do this summer

special place in our home. The kitchen was where my mom

that will bring a smile to your face. I bet some of those

would cook some of the tastiest food I’ve ever eaten. It was

things will also bring a smile to a parent, sibling, or friend’s

also a place that introduced me to the flavors of Korean

face too. Here’s to a fantastic, fun, and memorable summer!

Every dish she served was full of dedication and love for her family.

8 // June 2022

About The Author

cuisine. This was my mom’s favorite room in the home. Danny Hesterly lives in Chattanooga, TN where he spends most of his days in coffee shops helping others discover their part in God’s amazing story. Danny has two children (12, 10) and has been married to his lovely bride for 17 years.

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Amber is a lifelong resident of North Georgia. She started working as an administrative assistant in 2009 and fell in love with real estate. It was not until 2020 when she finally took the leap and decided to do real estate full time. She's licensed in both Tennessee and Georgia, specializing in first time home buyers. Amber loves working the process from start to finish. Her goal is to have her clients be as well informed as possible, to be treated like family and to always put their best interest first. Amber currently resides in LaFayette, GA with her daughter Aubrey and son Landon and their two dogs Mira and Mauser. She looks forward to working with you and helping you find home!

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Beth is a lifelong resident of Northwest Georgia, growing up in Adairsville, attending college in Rome, and currently residing in Summerville. She is a mother of four and owns two local restaurants with her husband. Before becoming a stay-at-home mother for several years, Beth was a newspaper journalist and member of several community boards and committees. As her background reveals, she is fully invested in the areas she serves as an agent in both Georgia and Tennessee and looks forward to showing newcomers around. Beth is excited to get out into our communities and help navigate clients through the home buying and selling process, hoping to make the transaction as laidback and stress free as possible.

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Let’s Get Real (Estate) MONEY MATTERS

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

ince the start of the pandemic, the real estate market

two roommates who are each paying $500 per month (not

has been on an upward trajectory. Home prices and

including utilities), you’re basically living for “free” while

rental rates are soaring, and home buyers are offering

owning your own home.

well over “asking price” to win the bidding war. With a

If you’re wondering how an eighteen-year-old and

national shortage of available homes for sale, there are too

a twenty-year-old (my sons) were able to obtain FHA

many buyers competing for too few homes. At the same time,

mortgages, my wife and I allowed them to be “authorized

countless informercials and podcasts promote real estate

users” on a credit card when they were seventeen years old.

investing as a sure path to wealth. But with interest rates

They used the credit card only for gas in their cars, and they

now rising, some may believe they have missed their chance

paid off their balances in full every month. Within a year,

to realize the dream of home ownership. What to do now?

they both had credit scores over 760 and were able to qualify

One way of entering this expensive housing market is

for FHA mortgages on their “house hacks.”

by “house hacking.” House hacking means that you buy

If you’re wondering where my sons got their money for

a home to live in, and get roommates or tenants to share

their down payments, they saved it from working part-time

the home with you to help cover the mortgage, taxes, and

jobs from age 16-18. (Encourage your teens to get jobs. It

insurance. Many young people are currently doing this

won’t kill them!). Meanwhile, my wife and I own several

with great success. If you buy a house with a bedroom

rental properties, and I regularly talk to successful real estate

and bathroom in the basement, for instance, that might be

investors locally (many of them are my friends) to learn

ideal for a roommate or tenant (especially if you can add a

more. I’ve never paid some real estate “guru” for a course in

kitchen in the basement). In a single-family home, you can

real estate investing. I just read a lot of books and listen to

rent out extra bedrooms, or if you’re able to buy a multi-

podcasts. It’s hard work, but if I can do it, you can do it.

family property (duplex, triplex, or 4plex), you can live in

But is real estate currently too pricey? Should you sit

one unit for “free” while the rents from the other units cover

on the sidelines hoping for a drop in home prices? (I do not

the mortgage and expenses. Both of my sons are currently

offer professional or legal advice, just one man’s opinion).

“house hacking” single-family homes by sharing with

To me, the real question is, “Do you think this property will

roommates, and the rents nearly cover the entire mortgage

be more valuable or less valuable in ten or twenty years?” If

and expenses every month. Here’s an example using real

the answer is “more valuable” (and history has proven this

numbers. By using an FHA loan with a low 3.5% down

over time), then perhaps waiting on the sidelines may cost

payment of $7,000 a $200,000 house, the monthly payment,

you more in the future. “Those who work their land will

insurance, and taxes on a 30-year mortgage is approximately

have abundant food, but those who chase fantasies will have

$1,070 per month. Assuming you share the house with

their fill of poverty” (Proverbs 28:19).

10 // June 2022

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Gò0dNews for Men

I am Man; Hear Me Kneel

“T

by John Garrod

he King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me”

(Matthew 25:40, NIV). When I completed my Master’s degree last November,

I began to work as a substitute teacher in the same school where I had done my student teaching. I love the school, and getting my foot in the door to eventually become a teacher there was not the furthest thing from my mind, if I’m honest. The very first assignment I took was in a self-contained, high-needs Special Education classroom. Most of the students are either non-verbal or only marginally verbal. Some you fall in love with immediately. Others…take a little more work to love. Emotional meltdowns are common. Gains in learning are minimal, and hard-fought. You never take for granted that they can do anything for themselves, even if they did it fine yesterday. Much of this work is done by paraprofessionals, most of whom are women. I suppose it is a bit misogynistic of me to say that this did not surprise me; we tend to expect women

And then, at the end of the school day, when most of us

to be nurturing, caring individuals, more willing to take on

are headed home, he goes to an afterschool program where

the care of those who cannot care for themselves. Women

he watches…children.

are awesome like that.

I’m proud to even be around men like this. I’m humbled

But then I met Mr. S.

when I see this kind of selfless service to those whom Jesus

Mr. S is a man after God’s own heart. Day after day, he

described thus in Luke 18: “Suffer little children to come

cares for these children. He endures setback after setback,

unto me and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom

because sometimes we set expectations for the children, see

of God.” There are positions far more highly esteemed in

them reach them, and then the next day, it’s as if they went

the eyes of men, and certainly many which pay a more

back three paces. He changes diapers that make lesser men

substantial wage for the hard hours put in. Yet there is no

retch. (Okay, I am that lesser man, and they make me retch.)

more noble act than that of a man who humbles himself to

He feeds one student through a tube, then half an hour later,

show the love of God to the least, the last, and the lost. If

he is cleaning up the mess when that student throws it back

God resists the proud and gives grace to the humble, then

up. He teaches alongside the SpEd teacher, stepping in at a

I’d tell you that this man’s heavenly grace paystub puts

moment’s notice when asked to cover a segment of learning.

mine to shame. This is what Godly manhood looks like.

often has to bag up soiled clothing to go home. He does all this for far less than what a teacher is paid.

12 // June 2022

About The Author

He sends notes home to parents about their child’s day and John Garrod is a father of six, husband of one. He is a graduate of Lee University (c/o ’19), a discipleship teacher at South Cleveland Church of God, and a U.S. Army veteran.

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Gò0dNews for Women

Fighting the Unseen Opponent pponents are everywhere! On the court and on the screen, they have the potential to make a good sports game and an interesting movie, but real-life rivals are not so fun. We have faced adversaries for years. They came in many forms. Some as people we did not know, like a rude customer service representative or a flippant driver. However, the people who we consider opponents at times are our co-workers, the ones we live with, or extended family. Think about it. One minute we are sailing along smoothly with a friend or family member when the wave of a disrespectful action occurs and rocks our boat. Learning to recognize these moments and having the wisdom to overcome them is a must in the world in which we live. Perhaps a loved-one does not respond in a way we expected. His reply is too quick, too short, or down-right wrong in our eyes. Maybe the adverse situation is with a teenager who has huffed one too many times. Whatever the situation that causes us to be on the defense, we often result in negative reactions. We must prepare our minds for a better way. While we will encounter rivals that we do not know personally and those that we are close with, our unseen adversary is our most

14 // June 2022

dangerous one. He sneaks up on us; he slams us. He creates uncertainty and doubt. He is Satan, and I don’t like him. Though I do not believe the saying, “The devil made me do it,” I do perceive the statement, “The devil tempted me to do it,” is an absolute truth—as God is not the author of confusion, Satan is (1 Cor. 14:33). In addition, we find that John 10:10a states, “The thief [Satan] comes only to steal and kill and destroy.” That is just what he wants. He wants to take us down and all those around us as well. I want to recognize my ultimate opponent and have a plan that promotes peace, not added hostility, which will only aid Satan in his wicked ways. I must defend myself because when I allow Satan to take hold, my actions affect my families’ lives. Thus, I am opening the door wider for Satan to come into my home. The armor of God is what I need…what we need. By putting on the armor of God, I can take my stand against the devil’s schemes (Ephesians 6:10-18). My mom used to say, “We make it together or crumble together.” I think a paperchain is a wonderful visual for families. When each link is secured, it can be stretched, even under pressure, but it will stay strong. However, when one little link is not secured, the whole chain will weaken. Families should connect like those chains, unify by learning God’s word and applying His principals. As women, we should help each other and the children in our families to learn about the armor of God. One of our best teaching tools is that of example. Our families need to see us putting on the armor of God when we must combat our battles. Our families need to see us act and react to our opponents, those visible or unseen (Satan), so that they too can learn to defend themselves using the word of God— for it is sharper than a doubleedged sword.

About The Author

by Karla Smedley

Karla Smedley lives in Dalton, Georgia, where she has taught 5th through 8th grade for the past twenty-four years. She is a member of Emmaus Baptist Church and has two grown children. She enjoys singing with the praise team at church, and she writes a Christian blog, Smorgasbord of Sisterhood, with her cousin Donna.

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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 // June 2022

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

78 Monanaw Avenue Rossville GA 30741 706-866-6724 Nazarene Battlefield Parkway Church of the Nazarene 3220 Battlefield Parkway Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-9838 Non-Denominational Battlefield Praise & Worship 1337 Battlefield Pkwy, Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-913-0531 Chosen Generation Ministries 92 W Patterson Avenue Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 423-779-6777 Living Waters Ministries 1337 Battlefield Pkwy Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 423-255-8655 Ridgeland Point Church 1417 Happy Valley Rd. Rossville, GA 30741 RockPointe Church 1278 Cross Street Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-820-6523 Untethered Church 2473 Lafayette Road Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 423-991-6067 Presbyterian First Presbyterian Church 1 Harker Road Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-0232

List/Update Your Church Listing (423) 478-6484

goodnewscm.com // 17

Gò0dNews for Couples

The Two Stones of Marriage

by Carl W. Corser

arriage milestones or millstones? Can both

so slowly, and so fine that we fail to recognize it’s affects upon

become part of a marriage? Which one is most

our marriage. We need to take inventory of our marriage

commonly discussed while marriage is the topic

relationship to identify the millstones that have begun

of the discussion? Doesn’t God intend for us to celebrate

grinding away at its integrity. Destruction of our marriage

milestones in our marriage? How about millstones? Hum?

will sneak up on us if we do not change our behavior.

There’s only one letter that is different in the spelling of these words, but there is a vast difference in the meaning or

If we return to the proper respect and love for our marriage, then the millstone will not have the opportunity

circumstance surrounding each one. It is a wonderful privilege to have the opportunity to celebrate a milestone that becomes a reality in our marriage. “We met on this day, ten, twenty, or even fifty years ago” or “We’ve been married for one year today or some other length of time.” How about a new home, children, or another good memory in our past? Why is a millstone so different? Why is its meaning so tragic? How many marriages do millstones destroy? What does it feel like to become saddled with a millstone within your marriage? Isn’t a common term used in application of this word slow grinding? How can this philosophy be applied to our marriage? Do marriages dissolve overnight? How long does it take for something that occurs within your marriage to

to destroy what God has put together. The celebration

become so terrible that it causes the marriage to split?

of milestones within a marriage will continue to be a

Love can cause us to make some foolish decisions. Sometimes, we are living in the name of love, not

wonderful time. God, help us all to be very protective of our marriage

recognizing that the millstone issue is still slowly grinding

relationship. The family will definitely benefit from the

on our marriage relationship. Then when the split occurs,

celebrations. Our world will become a much better place to

we are in wonder of what and when this all happened.

live. Our society will become healthier and more conducive

Wouldn’t it be so much better if we did not allow the

to the survival of successful marriage relationships. God’s

millstone the opportunity to start its grinding process?

institution of marriage will be re-established as He intended.

Wouldn’t it be so much less pain and suffering if we would

Blessings to you all as you become better custodians of your

ask for forgiveness instead of the millstone of bitterness

marriage, family, and life.

There are many issues that we can allow to become a millstone within our marriage. They become so heavy, grind

18 // June 2022

About The Author

grinding away so slowing at our marriage? Carl Corser is an ordained bishop, business owner, farmer, and is the author of the devotion website, www. sundaymorningdevotion.wordpress.com/living.

Church Activities & Events Christ First Church

Men’s Prayer Breakfast

Saturday, June 4 | 8AM - 9AM 5994 Martha Berry Highway, LaFayette, GA

Red Bank Baptist Church

Zoomerang Vacation Bible School Monday, June 6 - Friday, June 10 4000 Dayton Blvd, Chattanooga, TN

First Baptist Cleveland VBS Spark Studios

Monday, June 6 - Thursday, June 9 1275 Stuart Rd NE, Cleveland, TN

Redemption to the Nations Kids Summer Camp

Monday, June 20 - Friday, June 24 1908 Bailey Ave, Chattanooga, TN

Gò0dNews for Life

David And Nabal 1 Samuel 25

by Jonathon Wright

avid was well known throughout Israel and Judah. He defeated the great Goliath and his popularity soared. But there were some like

Nabal who were not impressed by David’s ability to take on a giant. Some did not appreciate David in their territory and were faithful to King Saul. This would describe Nabal, who was not only rich but influential, coming from the family of Caleb. When Joshua gave Caleb the land of Judah, he and his family drove out the giant Canaanites. This may explain why Nabal was not impressed by David. As the story continues, David and his men come all, taken care of Nabal’s sheep, and there was a celebration throughout the land. Yet, Nabal was harsh, offensive, and insulted David’s men. Of course, it is true in life that harsh, mean words often lead to violence and problems. When David heard these words, he was furious. He told his men to put on their swords because they were going to wipe these guys out. David was taking matters into his own hands and let anger get the best of him. This is never a good thing. But God had other plans. Abigail, Nabal’s wife, had not seen David’s men or heard of his request, so she went and secretly prepared a feast. Notice verses 18-19. “Then Abigail made haste and took two hundred loaves of bread, two skins of wine, five sheep already dressed, five seahs of roasted grain, one hundred clusters of raisins, and two hundred cakes of figs, and loaded them on donkeys. And she said to her servants,

20 // June 2022

“Go on before me; see, I am coming after you.” But she did not tell her husband Nabal” (NKJV). When she got there, she talked some sense into David. In the end, God took care of these potentially disastrous problems. David thanked and blessed God for her wisdom and gift. Abigail wisely waited until her husband was sober to tell him all she had done. He became like a stone, and ten days later, scripture records his death. David recognized God’s sovereign hand in his life and these events. He eventually would marry this kind and wise woman. In the same way, God stands sovereignly over our lives to prevent major problems. Yet, we still need to walk in kindness, listen to God, and the wise advice of others to see His best.

About The Author

to Nabal expecting some hospitality. They had, after

Jonathon Wright currently lives in Cleveland, Tennessee, and 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. He is currently beginning the process of writing a book on Genesis entitled, God’s Good Prophetic Plan: From Beginning to End.

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The Hippie Fitness by Rosa Coker

An Exercise Journey am passionate about helping others become the healthiest he/ she can be, whatever that looks like to that individual. As a person who was always active and fit, due to circumstances

beyond my control (helping take care of my father who ultimately succumbed to cancer, taking care of two boys who were in school and played sports, and I was a single mom working two jobs and putting myself through college), my life as I knew—workout routine, outdoor activities, social life, etc.—was put on hold to simply take care of my life. Fast forward three years after my father passed in 1998, I was still not back to a healthy routine, and I replaced my healthy habits with laziness, and Moose Tracks ice cream was my “go-to.”

However tacky his actions may have been, it was exactly what I needed to get back on a healthier, happier, and much more confident track. I recall getting home a few hours after the above-mentioned encounter, looking at myself in a fulllength mirror, releasing all those held back tears, and saying, “You did this, only you can fix this!” I immediately joined a local gym where I could find accountability and like-minded individuals. I hated every humiliating step into the gym. I felt like my out-of-shape body stood out like a light bulb and I wrestled with the cost of the gym. But I stayed with it until one day I was hooked. I yearned to get to my fitness classes, to see familiar faces who were becoming my friends, and the random, occasional person stopping to simply say, “I’ve been watching

So, five years after any exercise ceased to exist, I found myself

you, and you are doing great!” served as great encouragement.

sixty pounds overweight, suffering from low self-esteem,

Here are a few things I’ve discovered about myself through this exercise journey:

low confidence, and no social life. The straw that broke the overweight camel’s back, so to speak, was bumping into a long-time friend whom I had not seen in quite some years and hearing him say, “Man, now you’re the prettiest fat girl I

1. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me (Philippians 4:13) 2. Do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy

know.” My first thought was don’t let him see you cry, put that

Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God and you are not

fake smile on your face, and laugh with him. I had gotten way too

your own (1 Corinthians 6:19)

accustomed to using myself as the brunt of jokes when inside, I just wanted to crawl back into my container of Moose Tracks, drown my pity, and cry!

22 // June 2022

3. Garbage in/Garbage out (so, fill your body and spirit with good things)

4. Don’t compare your body with anyone else and find the exercise that you enjoy—there’s something for everyone! 5. If you want to see the six-pack stomach, it truly starts in the kitchen! 6. Most importantly, learn to communicate with the Father. (He’s always with me, I was simply not being with Him) Trust His voice! The Hippie Fitness Studio I received my Bachelor’s degree from Covenant College and studied in a Master’s program at Bryan College. Over the last eight years, I have received Group Fitness and Barre training, a certification in Indoor Cycle, and a 200-Hour Yoga certification. I am studying to become a Health and Wellness Coach and have taught at a local gym since 2015. In August 2021, I felt led to find my own space. So, I obeyed and purchased a small brick house right where I always envisioned I’d have a fitness studio. Hence the birth of The Hippie Fitness in Rocky Face, Georgia. I have recently completed a Holy Yoga 100-Hour certification. I plan to bring my love for God into my classes and weave scripture and the Holy Spirit into our movements. Truthfully, I’m ecstatic to see where God takes me! At The Hippie Fitness, I, and a few great like-minded friends, offer various styles of yoga—including Holy Yoga— Barre, Bounce, Cardio, Sculpting, Small Group, and Personal Training classes, along with lots of fun community events. Our facility is available to rent for small parties, activities, training classes, dance lessons, etc. The Hippie Chics (me and a few other Hippies) also offer Bachelorette/Wedding Fitness Parties, Birthday Parties, and Girls Night Out Fitness Parties at The Hippie Fitness studio, or we can come to their chosen venue! What is Holy Yoga? So, let’s talk about yoga. First of all, I’m a grandchild of a Southern Baptist preacher and a graduate of Christian-based schools, so I had my personal beliefs and hang-ups about practicing yoga. Why was I so opposed to yoga? Let me count the ways: If I practiced yoga, I would be disgracing God, right? Wouldn’t I be confessing to some other gods or beliefs? Truthfully, I simply never believed yoga was real exercise! I

began immersing myself in the study of yoga, its root, heritage, foundation, and how the poses benefit the human body and mind. I fell in love with the practice, at first, from the physical aspect of what yoga has to offer. As I delved deeper into the study of yoga, I fell in love with Yin and Restorative Yoga— the calmness, the closeness (mindfulness), and the intimate connection I feel with God during my practice. At The Hippie Fitness, we offer Holy Yoga classes. You can join us to experience traditional yoga practices with a Christcentered focus. We will “be still” with Christ, set our intention, and be thankful for the blessing of a healthy body. This is a peaceful time on your mat with God. We go through poses and deep breaths and truly offer God our undivided attention to simply sit at His feet and be loved unconditionally! This practice allows you to be immersed in joy, peace, and serenity! Oftentimes, I tear up simply being in the room, watching my students, and seeing peace on their faces (calm in an otherwise chaotic world). Even I, at first, would leave my class confused as to why my yoga practice would have such a purifying, heartopening, God-like effect on me. And to add a “cherry on top,” I sometimes get the pleasure of seeing some of my students experience those same feelings. So, come get groovy with us! The Hippie Fitness is located at 2625 Chattanooga Road, Rocky Face, GA 30740. For any questions, call The Hippie Fitness at (706)-847-0241. You can also follow The Hippie Fitness on Facebook, @thehippiefitness, for class information and encouragement!

goodnewscm.com // 23

Gò0dNews Business Spotlight Mountain View Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram

tn. View Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram (CDJR)

Of course, Mtn. View CDJR is first and foremost a full-

opened in Ringgold, Georgia, on February 1,

service automotive dealership. We strive to meet all the

2014. Our dealership is part of Mtn. View Auto

automotive-related needs of our customers. We are home to

Group, a family-owned organization dedicated to enriching

Mtn. View Off-Road & Emergency Services, a division of our

the communities in which our businesses are located.

dealership aimed at the specialty services required by some

We have formed close ties with several local charities,

of our customers. Our Off-Road department specializes in

civil organizations, schools, and government agencies to

customizing vehicles that suit the needs of our adventure

demonstrate our commitment. It is our responsibility to

enthusiasts. We work with our customers to enhance the

operate with integrity, something we take very seriously at

aesthetics of their vehicles for those who want a little more pop

Mtn. View CDJR. Holding ourselves to high standards and

than the standard options offered. We offer lift kits, custom

developing strong relationships with our customers has

wheels, off-road tires, and a variety of other products that help

been the catalysts to our success.

our off-road adventurers get the best performance from their vehicles. Our Emergency Service department does everything from simple emergency lighting to full police unit upfits. We are the area’s number one provider of Law Enforcement vehicles. Mtn. View CDJR has become one of the tristate’s top selling dealers thanks to our staff, who always go above and beyond when it comes to customer satisfaction. We have been honored with multiple awards from our peers, including the Chrysler Pentastar Award for eight consecutive years. We are the area’s first dealer to win Chrysler’s prestigious Customers 1st Award, an

One of our favorite things about operating in Ringgold

honor we do not take for granted. We are very thankful to

is the opportunity to involve ourselves in local events,

our employees, customers, and vendors who enhance and

especially those which bolster the local economy. We are

promote our business every day. Our goal is to continue

proud to be the title sponsor of the 1890 Days Jamboree*, an

providing quality products and services to our customers,

annual Memorial Day weekend festival showcasing local

and to maintain our status as a productive and honorable

vendors, food, artists, and musicians. We provide vehicles

entity within our community. Our slogan is “Number One

for Ringgold’s annual Down-Home Christmas Parade*,

for a Reason,” and we know that reason lies within the

another popular event that draws large crowds to our

relationships we value so much.

town. At Mtn. View CDJR, we believe in treating everyone

*https://www.1890sdays.com/

with respect. Many of our customers have become lifelong

*https://www.cityofringgoldga.gov/Events.aspx

friends who help bolster our ties with the community. We

*https://www.lighthousetfc.org/our-services/

are partners with Lighthouse Therapeutic Foster Care, Inc.*, an organization dedicated to helping all children feel wanted and loved. Our dealership proudly sponsors their annual Christmas party, providing food and gifts for approximately 50 foster families in the program.

24 // June 2022

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

Scoring For the Wrong Team

by Kristen West

y teammates were bewildered. My coach was

vulnerable to our old ways or one hot-button decision away

dismayed. The crowd was confused. My eighth-

from making a lay-up for our former team. The truth is, we

grade basketball team was pitted against a rival

all stumble in many things (James 3:2), are prone to sin, and

team on that very cold night in 1982. It was one of those

tend to get easily derailed in our faith journey. So, what do

small-town, everyone-gets-hot-under-the-collar kinds of

we do if we find we just scored for our old team? Get back in

games. The kind where, when you’re fourteen years old, it

the game!

feels like a life-or-death match. At one point in the game, I had stolen the ball from the opposing team’s point guard and dribbled to the basket as fast as I could. Most of the other players were behind me. The court ahead was clear. I went in for a lay-up and scored! An easy two points! I was thrilled… until I noticed my team wasn’t cheering and the other team was laughing. That was the mortifying moment when I realized I had just scored for the opposite team! I had succumbed to a moment of familiarity. You see, just one year before this embarrassing flub, I had been a player on the other team! Between my seventh and eighthgrade years, my family had moved. As a result, I changed

1 John 1:9 says, “If we confess our sins, He [God] is

schools. This game was the first time I had been on the court

faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and cleanse us

with my new team, facing my old team. For just a moment,

from all unrighteousness.”

I had a lapse in judgment and thought I was, once again, playing for my old team. Have you ever done that? Perhaps not in basketball,

God knows our weaknesses and is forever faithful and kind to help get us on our feet, brush us off, give us some great coaching encouragement, and send us back on the

but your Christian walk? In the spiritual scope of things,

court! And, the wonderful reality is that the longer you play

there are only two teams—God’s team and “the opposing”

for God’s team, the less likely you’ll be inclined to score for

team. According to Romans 3:23, we have all been a part of

your former team. It proved true for me in basketball, as

that opposing team at one point or another. As a result, we

well. I went on to play with the same girls from my eighth-

became familiar with it—the rhythms of a self-centered life;

grade ball team for the next five years. I didn’t make the

the habits of selfishness; the team support of the world and

mistake of scoring for my old team again.

all its trappings.

Lesson learned.

ultimately, the best decision we’ll ever make for ourselves and our neighbor; however, that doesn’t mean we’re not

26 // June 2022

About The Author

Joining God’s team is essential for eternal life and, 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.

Bible Study Company is an online study Bible and a social media community. Our mission is to study scripture to live a praiseworthy life to God. Our hope is a "Company" of believers will study scripture which in turn, causes obedience and service to God. Pew-sitters will grow into disciples. Disciples then become teachers and bear fruit for Christ. Matthew :28

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A A O P T I C A L G A . C O M

Gò0dNews Poetry

Our New Home by Judy Hood

We’ll fly like an eagle when Jesus calls us home

We’ll be such a happy bunch—just you wait and see

We’ll dance in the clouds never more to roam

As we worship our Lord, He will be so pleased

It will be such a party; don’t you want to go?

You can’t get to heaven by paying a fee

He’ll take us to that land called our new home

All you need to do is bow on your knee

We’ll watch the angels singing in the choir

God loves everyone, He says in His word

What a sound we will hear like the Holy Ghost fire

He wants you to come and be a part of His herd

It will be brighter than the sunshine we all know

He painted heaven with splendor; we’ll be so amazed

We’ll bathe in His beauty as He calls the roll

We’ll spend eternity with Jesus all of our days

28 // June 2022

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

Give Our Hurts to God

by Chad Van De Griek

remember back to when I was around nine years old or so, I was getting out of the minivan and working to make my way into the house with the rest of the

family. At that point in my life, I was still learning how to accomplish physical tasks (like getting out of the car) by myself. As a result, it would often take a little bit of time for me to do. On this particular night, a former family member was growing impatient as I slowly made my way from the van to my awaiting reverse walker. He quickly and assertively picks me up and begins to carry me into the house. As we made our way into the house, he began to tell me that “people would get tired of carrying me around,” that I needed to learn to do things on my own, and to quit being, as he put it, “babied.” It’s interesting how little moments like the one I just described can often bring the most damage to one’s heart and mind. Even after fifteen plus years have passed, these painful words can still very much impact the way I think, speak, and act on a daily basis. I often find myself trying to get things done quickly when I know that people are waiting on me, and I am very apologetic if I feel like I am taking too much time to complete a particular task. I don’t want to feel like a burden or hindrance, so I try to shoulder everything on my own. And most of those habits stem from those words spoken on a quiet evening all those years ago. For so long, I took those words to heart, and I let them

my job to make sure they understand how much they hurt

control me in a lot of ways. But as I think back on things,

me or for me to prove them wrong. I can’t let the pain that

I realize that I can’t let someone else’s unhealthy choices

they caused control me. I have to give it to God and trust

become the loudest voice in my head. Of course, those

that I am never alone in that battle. No, it’s not easy. Yes,

words hurt, and I won’t deny that or pretend like they

there will be plenty of days where the pain comes flooding

didn’t impact me. But I can’t let the words of broken and

back or days where we have to wrestle with that pain and

hurting people be the ones that carry the most weight in my

forgiveness over and over. That doesn’t mean that anything

heart and mind.

is wrong with you or me. It shows that we’re human. We

Life is hard. People are going to say and do things that hurt. But I am realizing that forgiving those people is much

must continuously give our hurts to God and lean on those around us that we trust.

It’s about me trusting God enough to let them go. It’s not

30 // June 2022

About The Author

more about me and less about the person who hurt me. Chad Van De Griek lives in Nashville, TN! He loves Jesus, hockey (Go Preds), and is a big Bible nerd. Chad was born with Cerebral Palsy and is very passionate about using his writing as a way to show God’s love to everyone! You can find more of his writing at chadvandegriek.wordpress.com.

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Gò0dNews for Father’s Day

What Kind of Father Should You Be? hat is the most important thing a father can do for his children? You might respond by saying he should provide for his family; make sure that they have a roof over their heads, food to eat, clothes to wear, and some sense of security. So many children in our troubled world don’t have those things, so that is the best thing a father can do for his children. If we look to the Bible for models to follow for passing on our faith, we might think of several prominent individuals. David had a great passion for God. We can see that passion in his Psalms. Although he is seen as Israel’s greatest king and was called “A Man After God’s Own Heart,” he was a disaster as a parent. His oldest son Amon raped his half-sister and was later murdered by their brother Absalom. David banishes Absalom, then relents, and in return, Absalom leads a rebellion against David until he is finally killed in battle. And although David’s heir Solomon starts well, he falls to worshipping the false gods of his many wives, thus leading Israel to do so as well. Hezekiah is considered Israel’s second greatest king, and he purified the practice of the Temple worship of God more than any other king. We are told that God loved Hezekiah so much that he spared his life and gave him an additional 15 years. And yet Hezekiah’s son, Manasseh (who reigned for 50+ years), is considered the evilest king in Israel’s history. Here we have children who were provided for better than anyone else in the land, and yet their father’s faith did not seem to translate to them. What are we to make of that? What kind of faith did they seek to pass on to their children? We can see the evidence of what happens when that faith is not effectively passed on. When we consider King David, we know from the Psalms that he had a great passion for God. When we study Hezekiah’s reign, we find that he practiced his faith better than any king before him. When we think about what type of faith we should pass on to our children, which is more important? Practice without passion is empty action. Practice without passion cannot answer the question of “Why?” On

32 // June 2022

the other hand, passion without the practical expression of faith leaves us vulnerable to being led astray by every whim of doctrine or action that touches us emotionally. It is the practice of faith driven by the passion of our relationship to Christ that communicates effectively and powerfully the full message of the gospel. Passion gives us the “why,” while practice gives us the “what” and the “how.”

Jesus summed that up in one simple statement in John 14:15. On the night before his crucifixion, Jesus told his disciples, “If you love me, you will keep my commandments.” The answer to the question of what kind of faith should we pass on to our children is BOTH. God calls us to be fathers whose experience of faith is central to and guides every area of our lives. It is a faith that is PROFESSED though one’s lips and is PRACTICED through one’s life. This Father’s Day, I encourage you to commit to being the father, the grandfather, the greatgrandfather that God has called you to be. As fathers, let us fulfill the role as the priest of our homes and commit to teaching and living Christ before our families.

About The Author

by Dr. Alan Hix

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

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Gò0dNews for your Taste Buds

Peach Surprise by Tim Marcum

Ingredients

Instructions

• ½ cup of milk

1. Combine the first five ingredients until smooth.

• ¾ cup of self-rising flour

2. Then, spread into pan to form crust.

• 1 large box of vanilla instant pudding mix

3. Arrange drained peaches on top of the crust mixture.

• 3 tbsp of butter • 1 egg • Large can of sliced peaches (drain and reserve juice) • 8 oz of cream cheese, softened • ½ cup of sugar • 4-5 tbsp of peach juice • 1 more tbsp of sugar (for sprinkle) • ½ tsp cinnamon (for sprinkle)

34 // June 2022

4. Combine cream cheese, ½ cup of sugar, and peach juice. Mix with mixer on medium for 2-3 minutes until smooth. Pour over crust. 5. Mix cinnamon and 1 tbsp of sugar and sprinkle on top. 6. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes. To double the recipe, use a 9x13 disposable pan at 350 degrees for 40 minutes (do not cook longer).

Gò0dNews

Christian Magazine

Mission Statement:

Writer Guidelines:

e believe when people are equipped,

Who: Our writers range from pastors, professors, and

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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.

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reach out to people through words of encouragement. What: We believe that it is important to laugh together, praise each other, encourage one another, and to offer biblical advice. Articles can be directed toward everyone, or from woman to woman, or man to man. We love to share recipes and family traditions as well. We ask that articles be kept to a 500 word maximum. We’d love to hear from you! Where: Please send submissions to articles.goodnews@gmail.com Why: Because God has not intended for us to just survive. We believe that we are intended to reach out to love and encourage each other. God has brought each of us through tough times, blessed us, and made the “impossible” possible. Let’s, together, share the love of Jesus Christ.

Gò0dNews for Everyone

Living Water by Katie Loveless

recently marveled at how casually a significant relationship

searching. Jesus came to make a way as He says:

seems to wax and wane in my life. The most tender spot

“But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him

stems from how casually they enter and exit when what I

really long for is continuity—a stay. As I prayed about it, God used this concern as a teachable moment to correct me. Isn’t that often what I do? Isn’t that sometimes how I worship? I come into His courts with praise, and then I leave. I enter His gates with thanksgiving, and then I go on about my day murmuring. I casually stroll into the presence of God, and then I exit when what God is longing for from me is

shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life” (John 4:14, KJV). Later Jesus says again: “If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink. He that believeth of me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water” (John 7:37b-38, KJV).

continuity—a stay. I want my relationship to be one in which there is no punctuation. There is no beginning and no ending—always with Him and Him always with me. I want to lock eyes with Jesus. I don’t want to go where He is not. I don’t want to be where He is not. And where He is on the move, that is where I want to be moving too. I began to think about water and how many of us get thirsty and visit wells for our supply. Wells of entertainment. Wells of knowledge. Wells of wishful thinking. Wells of nostalgia. Wells of judgement. Wells of superstition. Wells of tradition. In the natural sense, satisfying our thirst with well water has limitations. We must be in proximity to the supply. We also need a clean Finally, we need a reliable way to access the water. Friend, let’s remember that Jesus is our most significant relationship. We can stay tapped in to our source at all times. He came to revitalize our drinking habits. He came so that we wouldn’t have to go in search of people, places, and things outside of us but rather that we could draw from a fountain of life that springs forth from the inside of the life dedicated to Jesus. The story about Jesus and the Samaritan woman at the well explains it all. He used a conversation with an outsider to reveal to us that we, too, are an outsider in need of a Savior and in need of a divine supply (see John 4:9-18). So many of us don’t have access to clean drinking water in the spiritual sense. We may feel lost and undone—thirsty and

36 // June 2022

Maybe you’re like me and going through drought in meaningful relationships. Maybe, you are dry and dusty from being cut off from the source of things or people previously significant to you. Maybe, you don’t feel worthy to drink anything at all to free your tongue from the roof of your mouth. Beloved, it’s not all about what is going on all around you. It is about the stirring that takes place from the inside. If you are willing, invite God into the dusty places of your soul. Ask Him to come and fill you as only He can. Ask Him to cause water to come that springs up into everlasting life. Ask him to stir up a well of water that will never run dry. About The Author

supply of water free of sediment and harmful pollutants.

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

LIFE IS FULL OF SURPRISES.

Gò0dNews for Everyone

Praying Offensively

by Jade Morgan

o you ever watch a movie or TV show with

of Esther in such a way God’s power and deity cannot be

someone and they start predicting what will

denied. When it seems we do not see, hear, or feel God, He

happen? It can be so annoying when this happens,

is there, and His promises and Word are being fulfilled.

especially when what they are predicting turns out to

With anxiety and depression more commonly spoken

actually happen. Unfortunately, I am totally this person. My

about than ever before, it seems it is easier for our minds

close friends have learned this about me, and at first, they

to be bent more towards the negative. No wonder it has

were impressed. Now, I am not so sure!

become accepted and commonplace to assume the enemy

Just last week, I was watching a movie with a group of friends, and the uncontrollable urge to audibly say what I

is lurking, or thwarting plans, before we choose to see what God is doing in our midst.

could see coming overtook me. I gave in and verbalized my prediction. My close friend said, “She always does that.” My response was, “They give you every clue about what is going to happen!” A few days later, I was watching a suspenseful TV show and I felt that feeling creep in again. I knew what was about to happen. It was so clear to me. Then, about five minutes later, it did indeed occur. In that moment, I began to realize how this concept parallels our spiritual lives. At first, my thought was that, more often than not, there seem to be clues indicating forthcoming danger or sorrow. I can look back and see this clearly in my own life. Indicators and signs that seemed so hidden at the time but now seem abundantly clear. I had

My pastor said something to me last year that I did

an adversary clearly fighting against me. Having been

not understand at the time, but that has become more

born and bred in the south, I have often been the recipient

and more clear the last several months. He said, “Pray

of the phrases, “The enemy is lurking about,” and “God

offensive prayers, not defensive ones.” I see now how

must be up to something for the enemy to be fighting you

vital it is to not wait until we are in conflict, or tension, or

so hard.” These expressions are said in abundance, and

something stressful happens to pray—this would be praying

often without thought of the power we are giving the

defensively. Creating the habit of praying offensively,

enemy when we say these words and just believe them as

praying to be “Alert and sober minded,” as 1 Peter 5:8 says,

truth. There are often clues about what the enemy is up

and putting on the full armor of God in Ephesians 6 shifts

to, sure. Yet, there are always indications of what God is

our brains and spiritual lives to be on the offense before the

doing and how He is working.

trials even come. Intentional practice will not make perfect,

The story of Esther is so intriguing to me because of

but it will make purpose.

no direct mention of Jesus, nor any of the names people call God. However, it is evident He was there working the entire time. The gospel story is woven throughout the entirely

38 // June 2022

About The Author

how it lacks the mention of the Lord in any way. There is Jade Morgan taught special education for thirteen years before God called her to ministry. She is currently the Connect & Serve Director at Public Church in Cleveland, Tennessee, where she also leads a ladies Community Group.

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

Being Made in God’s Image

by Chase Holtzclaw

ook up and tell me what you see. If you are a believer,

should look at ourselves. How wonderful it is to think

you might see something besides clouds and the sky.

about His love for us. God knew how we would be when

You might see the heavens and look up and say Abba

He chose us. He knew how we would betray Him and sin

or Father God. When I look up, it reminds me of how small

against Him, and yet He still chose us before the foundation

I truly am compared to the existence of the things God has

of the earth. How beautiful is His perfect love for us that He

created. I like to look up at the sky and talk to my Father

would put Himself through death to give us life—a life for

God who is in heaven. God said, “Let us make man in our image according to Our likeness…” (Genesis 1:26). God created man in His own image to remind us of Him. What do you think God sees when He looks at us? This question has so many answers from so many well-educated scholars, and these scholars have much to say about this topic. When I ask myself this question, I must look back to the work of God and think, God said that He made us in His own image. In this image is a perfect plan for our lives and the future we are created for. When we are born, our parents looked at us and compared us to them. How we have the same nose or the same color eyes. We often look at our children and see ourselves in them or parts

a life, after all, is the cost of sin. Sin will cause death, and

of our loved ones. When our kids act a certain way, we can

through our sinfulness, Jesus chose death of His body for us.

see where they may get it from. Father God knows where

The enemy does not want us to see ourselves the way

we get our likeness from. He knows all things about us from

God sees us. He wants us to see the same disappointment

the inside to the outside.

that he sees when he looks at himself. Imagine the jealously

When we look at ourselves in the mirror, do we see

that the enemy has for us because of the love God has for

the love of the Father on us, or do we see the weight of the

you and I. We can overcome the enemy when we truly

sins that we have committed? Sin will not allow us to look

look at ourselves and can see the love of our Heavenly

at ourselves as the image of God. It only lets us look at

Father resting on us. The peace that comes with that is

ourselves with guilt and shame. We are children of the God

overwhelming and is contagious to others. When we are

Almighty, and when we look at ourselves, we should see

walking with the image we were created to walk in, people

Him through us.

can immediately see the light of the Lord through us.

Bearing the image of God is nothing to take lightly us in His image. Our God, the creator of all things, chose to make us His own, which completely changes how we

40 // June 2022

About The Author

considering He loved us so much that He chose to make

Chase Holtzclaw has three wonderful kids. God saved Chase’s life by showing him He has a better way. Chase prays that he can show his children how to love God above everything and to love their neighbor as themselves.

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

Walking With Molly—Part 2

by Shelley Knick

raining sessions with Molly continued to grow deeper,

impulse would be to kneel down to her, hold her sweet face

offering more insights. One day, in particular, still

in my hands to remind her, “We are two different species my

stands out. In the world of Washington state weather,

dear. You are missing the point here.”

the days seem to vacillate between romantic summers,

Tears filled my eyes when I thought about God seeing

painfully harsh winters, and chronic in-betweens of blah.

all my trying and failing and holding me close nonetheless.

Routine walks would often take on the temperament of

He likely saw effort, fight, and perseverance—qualities He

the weather. Which is to say, Washington weather and

respected, perhaps admired. Likewise, he saw my impatience

Washington moods are not that far apart.

and demanding responses to failed expectations. It hit me

Molly, however, became a constant for me. Her mood was steady when mine was not. It was humbling how she looked at me with admiration and reverence. She lived for our time together. Molly had a past that was unknown to me. When she came into my life, I knew nothing about how she might have been abandoned. I knew only that she looked like she had recently nursed a litter of puppies and was now discarded. She had lived some years and accumulated some experiences. Her path had refined her, and this intrigued me. Like Molly, at that time, I was a mother without her children and geographically far from my family. Unlike Molly, I had not been used and abandoned along a country road. My story wasn’t overtly tragic. But I had accumulated

that I was ambitious to be awesome like God rather than

enough years and experiences to leave my soul familiar

awesome with God. When we walk with God, we become

with being dislocated in life, detached from purpose, and

a unit. Ultimately, we share in God-Likeness because of

seeking to resolve an ache that consumed me. When Molly

our harmony. He offers transcendent qualities beyond our

arrived, she came with her breeding mate. He was strong and

species. We offer him a vessel, a character, and a reach that

relentless in his will. When they were together, she was his.

is uniquely human. Absent of Him, our striving is in ego. In

After we found him a new home, she and I walked together

truth, He teaches us that relationship is transformative and

like two women in their thirties trying to figure out our

transaction is religious.

purposes together. Something about her poise and elegance made me

Inevitably, Molly gets distracted and defaults to her animal instincts. In response, I apply training techniques

proud of her, though I wasn’t responsible for these qualities.

on the walk to bring her mind back to calm submission.

It was admiration. I wondered what it would be like if she

Restoring our peace becomes my primary objective, as it is

knew how I thought of her. If I felt this way towards her, I

with God. “Like water spilled on the ground, which cannot be

considered how similarly God thought of me as we walked.

recovered, so we must die. But that is not what God desires;

Then I imagined her growing insecure and anxious because she had big ambitions that she wouldn’t have if not

rather he devises ways so that a banished person does not remain banished from him” (2 Sam. 14:14).

up on two legs, to walk and talk with me? Would she grow guilty and wrecked with self-defeat because she couldn’t do more human things? This seemed ridiculous to me. My

42 // June 2022

About The Author

for knowing me. What if she began pressuring herself to stand Shelley is an aspiring writer. She is also a nurse, a wife to her high school sweetheart of 22 years, a brand-new mama to their miracle baby, and a new resident of Rome after moving from Washington state.

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