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Contents M AY 2 0 1 9

GoodNews from the Pastor’s Desk

6 Be Encouraged

by David Flood

GoodNews for Kids

8

Why?

by Daniel Medina

GoodNews on Money Matters

10 Got Money - Now What?

by Andrew Lee

GoodNews for Men

12 Becoming a Leader

by Wanye Williams

GoodNews for Women

14 God is Restoring

by Amy Wilson

GoodNews for Singles

18 Overlooking Comparisons

by Jenny Godwin

GoodNews for Parents

20 The Incredible Task of Parenting

by Linda Ray Center GoodNews Cover Story

22 Comfort Keepers:

Personalizing In-Home Care

GoodNews for Life

24 The Value of a Life

by Carrie Rigdon

GoodNews for Teens

26 What’s Next?

by Jake Moats

GoodNews from the Physician’s Desk

28 It is a Stroke? Be Safe.

Call 9-1-1

by Meagan Darnell

GoodNews for Couples

30 A Cord of Three Strands

by Rachel Smith

GoodNews for Everyone

32 Writing in my Bible

6

by Arlene Ledbetter

GoodNews for Everyone

34 What To Do in Times of Uncertainty

by Wendy Pierce GoodNews for Everyone

36 Power is a Source, Not an Acquisition

by Kyle Blevins GoodNews for Women’s Health

38 Kissable Lips

22

by Dr. James White

GoodNews for Mothers

40 Day of the Okra

by Becky Gaspard

GoodNews from a Woman’s Heart

42 A Woman of God

by Brittany Ramirez

42

Gò0dNews from the Pastor’s Desk

Be Encouraged

H

by Dr. David Flood

ave you ever found yourself in a situation that

right hand and see, for there is no one who acknowledges

you were not counting on turning out the way it

me; refuge has failed me; no one cares for my soul”

did? Many times in life, we find that situations

(Psalm 142:4).

do not measure up to what we thought they should be.

Sometimes, we as Christians may feel that we have been

When this happens, we get discouraged in the moment.

forsaken by family, friends, or even by God. These emotions

Discouragement will oftentimes lead to our giving up on the

can be overwhelming. Discouragement comes from things

situation. As Christians living in the world today, it is easy

in our lives that don’t measure up to our expectations.

to become discouraged when we look around and see so

Anything that involves people has the potential of being

many people turning away from God.

discouraging. For this reason, we must not keep our eyes on

1 Samuel 30:6 says, “Now David was greatly distressed, for the people spoke of stoning him, because the soul of all the people was grieved, every man for his sons and his daughters. But David strengthened himself in the Lord his God.” The story behind this verse may

people. People will always come short of our expectations, but we keep our eyes on Christ. He will never measure up short in our lives.

Hebrews 12:2 says, “Looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy

not be at all like our story today, but the same

that was set before Him endured the cross,

emotions are still just as strong now as they

despising the shame, and has sat down at the

were with David.

right hand of the throne of God.”

David and his mighty men had been off fighting in different conflicts. They had left

1 Samuel 30:6 says that David encouraged himself in the Lord his God. During the

their families, their wives, and their children

times when we too are feeling the emotions of

for safekeeping in a city called Ziklag.

discouragement because things didn’t go the way

When we read the story, I can only

we thought they should have, in the hour

assume that they were trusting

when we feel forsaken by everyone, we

in the Lord to watch over their

too need to be encouraged in the Lord

families while they were gone.

and know that even though things

When they returned to Ziklag,

didn’t go our way, they are going

the city was on fire and their

His way and His way is best. Many

wives and children were gone.

times, God is working, even if we don’t

In this moment of time, all of

understand how. Just trust Him. He

David’s mighty men turned on him; it would seem also that maybe

will not fail you. God will not give up on you, so don’t give up on God.

David felt as if God had let him down.

Maybe it was David’s own words that

6 // May 2019

About The Author

came across his mind: “Look on my Dr. David Flood is the pastor of Pleasant Valley Baptist Church located in Ringgold, Georgia.

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Gò0dNews for Kids

Why?

by Daniel Medina

I

s there a reason for our saying why? I mean,

So, why would a word that can get you into so

when we use it on our parents when they ask us

much trouble even be a word? It seems like no matter

something, it can come out sounding very rude. Is

what happens, asking “Why?” results in some sort of

there even a need for the word? “Why can’t I go here?”

rudeness, trouble, or some wrong action. But, even

“Why can’t I take that?” “Why do I have to go?” I

though this word can be used like that, it can also be

don’t think we notice how often we use this word or

used to ask, “Why do I do so many things wrong?”

what it really means. It’s just like “what” and “where.”

“Why am I doing this?” “Why am I even here with

Maybe nobody really cares. You should, though,

these people who show me nothing but disrespect and

because this word can either help us or tear us apart.

get me in trouble?”

First, you say, “Why can’t I go?” It’s not such a

Why: that one word can change your life for good,

bad question; it doesn’t ruin your life, right? I mean,

or it can stab you like a knife. We use this word all the

don’t you want to know why? But then, it gets worse

time, but we never notice how much it can change us.

and becomes wrong. Sooner or later, you’ll be asking,

So, be careful how you use it because it can lead you

“Why can’t I drink this?” “Why can’t I use this?”

down the wrong path.

alcohol? Why can’t I use this cigarette? It all goes downhill from there.

8 // May 2019

About The Author

This happens more than you think. Why can’t I drink Daniel Medina is a 12-year-old Tennessean, with Puerto Rican roots. He loves reading, and science. He is an honor student; he loves to play with his friends, and to read the Bible on his own personal time.

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Got Money— Now What?

MONEY MATTERS

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

I

n the past few months, I’ve had several people contact me “out of the blue” to ask my opinion on what they should do with some new-found money they had recently received.

These were not strangers—they were all acquaintances whom I had known for a while in various ways. Some of them had recently received a life insurance payment after the passing of a loved one. Some had received an inheritance; others had sold a property. But they all had the same question—now what should I do with this money?

It’s both flattering and incredibly humbling to realize these friends have sought my opinion; after all, I’m not a financial planner or registered financial adviser, nor do I hold any licenses regarding securities or insurance sales (standard disclaimer—I don’t provide legal or professional advice nor am I licensed to do so). And it turns out that is precisely why these individuals wanted my opinion—they knew I had no hidden agenda, would never try to sell them anything, and wasn’t getting any commissions or paid endorsements to recommend a particular product. I’m just a consumer advocate who enjoys helping others, and I would never ask for money to help anyone. I’d like to briefly outline my approach to helping with this question: “What should I do with this money?” Hopefully, this can help readers if their own friends or family ask them this question.

What is the purpose of this money? This is typically the first question I ask. If this money is needed to pay immediate monthly bills or buy groceries, that is a very different scenario than someone who doesn’t need the money to live on but instead wishes to invest and grow the money for a long-term goal such as retirement or kids’ college savings. If the person

10 // May 2019

doesn’t know the purpose for this new financial windfall, then I move on to the next question.

How much do you have in a cash savings account for emergencies? If the answer is “nothing,” then my first suggestion is to put enough cash in a savings account or money market account or short-term CD to cover several months’ worth of expenses in case of a crisis.

How much debt do you have? How important is it to you to be “debt free?” This will determine how much of the financial “windfall” money goes toward debt reduction before investing for growth. Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University teaches that one should pay off all debts besides the home mortgage before investing.

What’s your risk tolerance? (See my column from last month, April 2019). You must know your personal tolerance for risk before deciding how and where to invest.

If you wish to meet with a financial adviser or planner, be “as wise as serpents and harmless as a dove” as Jesus instructs us in Matthew 10:16. Preferably, seek out an adviser who must always act as a fiduciary whose recommendations are in your best financial interest. I would be very wary of any adviser or planner or broker who does any of the following: 1. Tells you to give the money to them or their firm without first asking you the questions above in order to get to know you and your financial goals and worries.

2. Immediately recommends any particular investment (annuity, stock, mutual fund, bonds, gold, real estate, etc.) without first taking the time to ask the questions above. When it comes to money, there is no “one size fits all.” Your own financial situation, as well as your financial goals, will determine what’s best for you.

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Gò0dNews for Men

Becoming a Leader

“A

by Wayne Williams

nd the angel of the Lord appeared to him,

have heard the phrase “self-made man.” That doesn’t exist

and said to him, “The Lord is with you, you

in God’s scheme of things. Perhaps there are in this world

mighty man of valor!” (Judges 6:12).

some self-proclaimed self-made millionaires, billionaires,

The expression, “Leaders are made, they are not born,”

and the like. By fate or luck, there are those who have

is generally attributed to the legendary NFL football coach

“made it” in life and on their own terms. They “did it their

Vince Lombardi. Variations of this profound statement

way.” However, with God and in His program of things,

include but are not limited to: “Leaders are born, not made,”

the true man of valor, leader, or successful person realizes

“Leaders are born then made,” and “Leaders born are made.”

they can do all things through Christ who strengthens them

Confusing, huh? Whether they are born then made or born

(Philippians 4:13) because all of their help comes from the Lord (Psalm 121:1-2). As I would ask while preaching, “Can I get a witness?”

Secondly, I personally believe God not only fits the man for the battle but also fits the battle for the man. Whether it’s Moses before Pharaoh, Joshua at Jericho, or His own Son on a cross, God fully knows the outcome and thus prepares the person for His purpose. Job said it best: “But He knows the way that I take; when He has tested me, I shall come forth as gold” (Job 23:10).

Whatever trials or tests you and I face from day to day, month to month, or year to year, we must remain confident that we will

(already) made, the essence of one’s being a “true” leader is

overcome because our Father knows the outcome! (Observe

that they are sanctioned or designated by God to be so.

Jeremiah 29:11.)

Allow me to further explain. In the biblical text, we

Lastly, perhaps Lombardi’s words are often misquoted

should observe that it was “the angel of the Lord” who

because they are not fully stated. The latter part reads,

spoke this declaration or designation to Gideon. Read the

“….they [leaders] are made by hard effort, which is the

angel’s statement again, thoughtfully: “The Lord is with you

price which all of us must pay to achieve any goal that is

[Gideon], you mighty man of valor!” Simply stated and in

worthwhile.” Thus, I am inclined to believe that “anyone

my paraphrased version, “Gideon, you are a ‘mighty man of

born is made a leader based the effort that person makes

valor’ because God is with you.” I believe this was tactfully

to be successful.” Indeed, “nothing ventured is nothing

and strategically rendered for a number of reasons.

gained.” Such was the case with Gideon, and so it can be the

mindful and continuously reminded that he was and we are men of valor primarily because God has endowed or designated us to be so (see Judges 6:14, 16). Perhaps you

12 // May 2019

case with you and me. “The Lord is with you, you mighty man of valor!”

About The Author

Foremost, Gideon, as with me and you, needed to be

Dr. Wayne Williams, executive director of World Harvest Ministries and certified marriage counselor is married to his high school sweetheart, Lita LaMour Mack. They have one adult daughter, Brittany, a graduate of Lee University who has been married almost four years to her fellow college classmate, Dennis. The Williamses reside in Athens, Tennessee.

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Gò0dNews for Women

God is Restoring

by Amy Wilson

I

n March of 2002, I was at a very low point in my life. I

It’s oftentimes during the hardest and most difficult

wanted a child but I was in an abusive relationship. We

seasons in our lives that God longs to speak to us. He wants

had been married for six years. We both messed up often,

to give us hope and, even more, He wants to restore. As I

yet the affairs, drugs, drinking, and abuse overshadowed

was in the bed at the hospital, the doctors were telling me

everything else. I felt like nothing. I was a woman who ran

there was no way my Gloria was going to live; but, they

on a robotic mentality.

didn’t know my God. I was singing one day in the midst of a

One night, after a hot August day, I was reading my

bad report from the doctor and I heard, deep in my heart, a

Bible and 1 Peter 5:10 jumped out at me: “But may the God

sentence: “Blessed are her feet, for mighty things she will do for Me.” I knew at that moment my promise was coming forth.

Look at those words: will do.

Our life hasn’t been easy.

Gloria was born early and we have dealt with feeding tubes, surgery after surgery, and heartaches, including a divorce, but God’s word has never returned void. For those who are longing for your Gloria, for those ladies who think you always have to have it together, for those of us who hate getting things wrong, and for those of us who are hurting, God is in control.

Stop, look, and listen; He is

of all grace, who called us to His eternal glory by Christ

speaking. Isaiah 40:31 says, “But those who wait on the Lord

Jesus, after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish,

shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings

strengthen, and settle you.” All I could think was, “Yes, yes,

like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk

yes!” In that moment, I found the hope that I needed.

and not faint.” Keep moving, run this race, and know God

I began seeking the Lord with urgency. I stopped

is restoring. My Gloria will be 16 by the time you read this

looking at all the horrible things that were happening to

and, every day, I rejoice for my promise. Start rejoicing for

me and began focusing on the God who was restoring. My

your promise; it’s coming!

song came back and I would catch myself singing again.

Then, I found out I was going to have a baby. For this child I hospital six weeks before I had her, but I wouldn’t trade that time because, in that season, I heard from the Lord.

14 // May 2019

About The Author

had prayed. I was very sick the whole time and I was in the Amy Wilson is a native of Cleveland, TN. She is married with one daughter and they attend Eleven 22 Church. She does Development and Operations at The Caring Place. Amy is also active in Kairos Prison Ministry and recently completed her MBA.

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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 First Baptist Church of Ringgold 105 East 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

16 // May 2019

Church of the Deaf 1314 Old Three Notch Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-375-7107 Video Call: 706-956-0445 Heritage Pointe Baptist Church 60 Dyer Bridge Place Ringgold, GA 30736 706-858-0976 Hickory Grove Baptist Church 5010 Houston Valley Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-673-6999 Keith Baptist Church 1573 Keith Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-450-0963 Living Faith Baptist Church Highway 41 Ringgold, GA 30736 706-891-1817 Midway Baptist Church Highway 41 North Ringgold, GA 30736 706-937-2317 Mount Peria Baptist Church 341 Sparks Street Ringgold, GA 30736 706-935-4887 Mount Pisgah Baptist Church 66 Mount Pisgah Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-935-3031 Mount Vernon Baptist Church 1006 Mount Vernon Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-935-3872 New Bethel Baptist Church 1635 Salem Valley Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-965-3500 New Friendship Baptist Church 3833 Salem Valley Road Ringgold, GA 30736 New Heights Baptist Church 158 Ooltewah Ringgold Rd Ringgold, GA 30736 706-965-9838 New Liberty Baptist Church 923 Graysville Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-937-4754 Peavine Baptist Church 1089 Peavine Road

Rock Spring, GA 30739 706-375-4721 Philadelphia Baptist Church 1065 Pine Grove Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-891-5683 Pine Grove Baptist Church 46 Pine Grove Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-891-2427 Pleasant Grove Baptist Church 7769 Alabama Highway Ringgold, GA 30736 706-935-3348 Pleasant Valley Baptist Church 1995 Ooltewah Ringgold Rd Ringgold, GA 30736 706-537-3633 Poplar Springs Baptist Church 422 Poplar Springs Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-965-4461 Salem Baptist Church 1947 Keith Salem Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-965-3907 Welcome Hill Baptist Church 223 Inman Street Ringgold, GA 30736 706-965-4814 Church of Christ Cohutta Road Church of Christ 2233 Mount Vernon Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-935-3884 Ringgold Church of Christ 4099 Nashville Street Ringgold, GA 30736 706-965-2820 Church of God Boynton Church of God 1956 Three Notch Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-937-6300 Indian Springs Church of God 2256 Highway 41 North Ringgold, GA 30736 706-937-3599 Ringgold Church of God 117 Emberson Drive Ringgold, GA 30736 706-935-2056 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 162 Sparks 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 Catoosa 6141 Three Notch Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-397-4115 Church of Living Faith 7623 Alabama Highway Ringgold, GA 30736 706-937-5673 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 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 2011 South Cedar Lane Fort 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 of Ft. Oglethorpe 115 Lafayette Road Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-0232 Moriah Baptist Church 2864 Battlefield Parkway Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-8843 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 Church of God Harbor Faith Church of God 650 Battlefield Parkway Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-861-1737 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 Nazarene Battlefield Parkway Church of the Nazarene 3220 Battlefield Parkway Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-9838 Non-Denominational Chosen Generation Ministries 92 W Patterson Avenue Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742

423-779-6777 Cornerstone Church 1278 Cross Street Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-861-1957 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 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 Singles

Overlooking Comparisons

E

by Jenny Godwin

verywhere we turn, we have comparisons thrown

regret, or fear; we think we will never be enough for various

in our face. There are models, celebrities, friends,

reasons and believe lies.

coworkers, and even complete strangers we

To give personal insight, I love hosting parties and

ashamedly compare ourselves to. We fear that we aren’t

get-togethers with friends. I find opening up my home

enough if we don’t look, talk, laugh, sing, or love like

rather enjoyable. There was a time, years ago, when hosting

someone else. You may think it is foolish, but it happens.

stressed me out and, at times, made me physically ill. I

When the emotions that follow the comparisons sink in, it

wanted my home to appear perfectly spotless, the food and

eventually convicts me because it turns my completion and

drinks to be ready, and for everyone to have a lovely time. I

definition to something other than Christ.

wanted people to know that while I wasn’t a wife or mother yet, I was going to make a great one someday. After realizing what was happening, I had to limit hosting because it had become an unhealthy idol. There was way too much focus being put towards looking like all was wonderful and that I was “a catch” and not enough focus being put on striving to reflect Christ with how I loved others. While I’m back to hosting on occasion now, there are some differences. Do I try to pull off perfection? Nope! I was comparing myself to some false idea of what others would value or wanted.

We must hold our thoughts

Comparisons are dangerous. We look for some sort of

captive and turn our eyes towards God and His Word. Is it

validation in them because we think that we are better or

easy? Absolutely not. But, no one ever promised simplicity

worse than the person or thing we’re comparing ourselves

or ease with this life. We were actually promised trials along

to. We allow those things to rob us of our joy while

the way, but with those trials come character, refinement,

preventing ourselves from moving forward to glorify God

and a painful process called sanctification. Those things

with our lives. John 10:10 says, “The thief does not come

mean that He hasn’t given up on us! Did you read that? He

except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come

hasn’t given up on us! What sweet relief.

that they may have life, and that they may have it more the time, the down feelings we experience are due to our own imaginations running wild on us and bringing shame,

18 // May 2019

About The Author

abundantly.” Comparisons only bring us down. Most of Jenny Godwin is vivacious, competitive, and can usually be located in a room by her loud laugh or animated motions. Her goal is to tie in life’s quirks and turns with God’s sincere goodness, pursuit, forgiveness and ultimate joy.

Church Activities & Events First Baptist Church

Traditional Service 11:00 AM ( Sanctuary) Contemporary Service 11:10 AM (Fellowship Hall) 7611 Nashville Street, Ringgold, GA 30736

United Methodist Church Recovery At Ringgold

Thursdays 5:45PM - 8:00PM Call for more info (706) 935-4777

Rock Point Church Jump Start

May 5th - 12:30PM Call for more info (423) 602-8509

Poplar Springs Baptist Church Adult and Youth Bible Study

Wednesdays at 6:30PM 422 Poplar Springs Road, Ringgold, GA 30736

Freedom Church Women’s Retreat

May 3rd - May 4th Call for more info (423) 629-1200

Gò0dNews for Parents

The Incredible Task of Parenting

D

by Linda Ray Center

eveloping a relationship with adult children

strength to not get unnerved. It also helps me hold my

isn’t always a piece of cake. Parenting is

tongue instead of adding fuel to the fire. Our children

something I need to work on daily because

are watching how we control our actions. If I want my

sometimes, it feels like a roller coaster ride with

relationship with my children to be different, it’s up to

downhill drops we never see coming. God has

me not to give in to pride and to always model self-

entrusted me with these precious people. My goal is to

control. I can influence them more by living a Christian

produce meaningful relationships with them.

life today than by persuading them to see my point.

It’s comforting to know that raising children

The enemy loves to attack our relationships with

doesn’t define me: how I handle the situation does. On

our children, no matter what age they are, because it’s

those difficult days, I wrap God’s loving promises for

a relationship that is important to God. Our Heavenly

encouragement around me. It takes the pressure off.

Father is a pure representation of what love looks like

When unexpected difficulties occur, the Bible

in a parent-child connection. Children are gifts, and so

reminds me not to provoke my children to anger but

is this incredible task called parenting.

Lord. God is faithful to His word, which gives me the

20 // May 2019

About The Author

bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Linda Ray Center is a blogger, motivational speaker, and a relationship builder. Linda and her husband reside in the Deep South. www.lindaraycenter.com.

Caring for You, Personally Comfort Keepers provides assistance to help you stay in your own home. In addition to Companionship and Home-making Services, we now offer Personal Care Services to provide an extra level of support to our clients.

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Comfort Keepers: Personalizing In-Home Care

D

by David Thompson

id you know that in the United States in 2014, there

home or an assisted living facility, and senior citizens

were more than 46 million adults ages 65 and older?

overwhelmingly desire the comfort and safety of their own

By 2060, there will be an estimated 98 million senior

home as well. In fact, 87% of adults ages 65 and older want

citizens in the United States. Those who find themselves

to stay in their current home and community as they age.

approaching or entering into retirement can view age as

However, assisting in the care of a loved one can at times

a sign of wisdom and experience, but it often marks the

be a difficult responsibility that requires more time and

arrival of new and unforeseen challenges as well.

attention than some are able to give. Fortunately, Comfort

Daily tasks that were once automatic can suddenly seem much more difficult. Chores that could once be completed

Keepers is able to help.

Comfort Keepers is a growing international franchise

by just one person now require two people to finish the job.

network that offers personal care, companion care, and

And, as a person ages, it can often put pressure on family

other care services that allow individuals to remain in the

and friends as they also must adjust to a new way of living;

privacy and comfort of their own homes. Founded in 1998

42% of American workers in 2014 had provided care for

by a registered home healthcare nurse and her husband,

an aging relative or friend in the past five years, showing

Comfort Keepers has grown to more than 756 locations

just how many people are affected by a change in that one

in the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Ireland,

person’s daily routine.

Portugal, Australia, and Singapore.

Many who find themselves taking care of a loved one can find it hard to put that person in a retirement

22 // May 2019

Comfort Keepers works with families and decisionmakers to create a customized plan of care for each client,

through background checks, insured, and bonded for their clients’ peace of mind. Each worker’s mission is to provide clients with the highest level of quality of life achievable and to treat each client with the respect and dignity they deserve, as though they are caring for a member of their own family.

The vast majority of Comfort Keepers’ clients are seniors, but services are also available to others needing assistance, those and it offers a wide range of in-home care services that revolve around personal care and companionship. These services include bathing, grooming, mobility assistance, toileting and incontinence care, dementia care, meal preparation, laundry and linen washing, light housekeeping, and 24-hour care, among others.

Alan and Rhonda Hutchins opened their local Comfort Keepers office in 2003 and serve the areas of Chattanooga and Northwest Georgia. Their office is licensed in both Tennessee and Georgia to provide in-home care. Alan’s career as a long-term care administrator and Rhonda’s career as a nurse mark both as extremely experienced and highly qualified in providing care to seniors.

Alan and Rhonda aren’t the only qualified workers at Comfort Keepers. All their caregivers are employees of Comfort Keepers franchisees and are carefully screened

recovering from illness or injury, or those with disabilities. Workers are flexible and committed to taking care of the needs of each individual client, even in special circumstances; in every new situation, workers are focused on ensuring that the client is treated in a uniquely caring and compassionate manner.

If you are currently faced with an upcoming decision related to the care of someone close to you, there is a solution. With Comfort Keepers, you can rest at ease, knowing your loved one is being taken care of by kind, highly trained professionals who are dedicated to fulfilling the needs of their clients. Now, you don’t have to worry about asking yourself the tough questions about senior living and in-home care. Comfort Keepers has already answered them for you.

goodnewscm.com // 23

Gò0dNews for Life

The Value of a Life

by Carrie Rigdon

O

ne early morning in August, nearly four years ago,

cure for cancer? Would one become the next great leader?

my life changed forever. I remember every detail.

Sadly, we will never know. We live in a society where life is

I remember feeling many emotions at once: fear,

not always valued. As a Christian, I believe that every life

literal pain, and pure joy rolled into a bundle of nerves as

has value because we were created to be image bearers of

I woke my husband up to tell him it was time to go to the

Almighty God. The Bible tells us in Genesis 1:27, “So God

hospital. A few hours later, we met our beautiful baby girl.

created man in His own image; in the image of God He

As they placed her on my chest for the first time, tears of joy

created him; male and female He created them.”

streamed down my face. This was the moment that we had prayed for, hoped for, and believed God for for so long.

What does it mean to value life? It means speaking for those who cannot speak for themselves (Proverbs 31:8-9). It means protecting the rights of the unborn, caring for the orphan and the widow, taking care of the elderly, and ensuring those who have special needs feel valued as members of humanity. It is extending compassion to those who are marginalized by society. It is giving grace to those who have made mistakes and letting them know there is a place for them at the table.

It is proclaiming that life from conception to death is precious and holds immense worth given by the Creator, God Himself.

It has been said that life is God’s most precious gift. God values life so much that He sent His only Son to give His life so that we may have eternal life. Do you value life? Do you see your life as precious

In this one moment, many of my hopes and dreams

and filled with worth? Do you know how special you are?

were staring back at me in the form of this tiny little person.

Do you value others and see them through the lens of grace

I had always valued life but, in that instant, I was breathing

and love? Let’s teach our children and grandchildren the

in the scent of a new baby. I was touching tiny fingers and

importance of the sanctity of life by honoring God and

toes. I was awaiting the glorious sound of tiny little lungs

caring for each member of the human race.

culminating in the sound of a loud cry. I was looking at another human soul who was created by God and knit

1

www.focusonthefamily.com/socialissues/life-issues/dignity-of-human-life/abortion-statistics

together in my womb for His glory and for His purpose.

826,199 babies were aborted.1 What if those babies had had a chance to grow up? A chance at life? Would one discover the

24 // May 2019

About The Author

The same year my daughter was born, an estimated Carrie Rigdon lives in North Georgia with her husband Matthew and two small children. They attend Crane Eater Community Church. Carrie enjoys spending time with her family, marketing and communication, reading, and participating in her church’s women’s ministry.

Visit doubleportioncatering.com or call Terri at 423.316.1727 for more info

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Gò0dNews for Teens

What’s Next?

W

by Jake Moats

e are almost at the end of another school

you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope

year. (Seniors, you made it!) One of the

and a future.’” I know, I know, this verse gets used

things that comes around this time of the

frequently, but I want you to really understand

year more than ever is the dreaded list of questions

something today. Even if you don’t know “what’s

from adults: “What’s next?” “Where are you going

next,” God does. God knows the plans He has for you,

to college?” “What are you going to do when you grow up?” “What’s your plan?”

Some people have their answer rehearsed and ready to go, and some of you may be saying, “Uhhhh…” Whichever end of that spectrum you fall on, let me just encourage you and say that it’s okay.

One of my favorite things about being a youth pastor is getting to hear from kids when they made the team, got the perfect attendance award, or were accepted into that college on a scholarship, but there is also always the other side: you didn’t make the team, you don’t have perfect attendance, you didn’t get accepted into your dream school, and you have no idea what your life ten years from now holds because you barely know what ten minutes from now holds! Should you have plans?

Sure. But, don’t get so busy planning what’s next that you forget to live in what’s now.

As I think back to when I was in high school, I remember being asked that question. Even knowing

and when He is ready for you to know them, they will be revealed to you.

So, the next time somebody asks you that

my answer, I still felt it was sort of a way of pressuring

dreaded question and you don’t have an answer,

me to know what I wanted my future to look like.

you can respond to them, “I may not know, but I

There have been some times when I didn’t know what

know who does!”

my future looked like, but I always knew who was in Jeremiah 29:11 says, “‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper

26 // May 2019

About The Author

control of my future.

Jake Moats has been the youth pastor at Cornerstone Church in Cleveland, TN, for almost four years. He is married to Courtney Moats, and the two are expecting their first child this fall. Jake also coaches baseball and football at Cleveland Middle School.

Keith Baptist Church Pastor Rick Clark

SERVICE TIMES Sunday School 10AM Morning Worship 11AM Evening Worship 6PM Wednesdays 7PM

1573 Keith Road Tunnel Hill, GA 30755 706.450.0963

FREE Financial Literacy Workshop SUNDAY, MAY 19 | 5PM - 6:30PM At Boynton United Methodist Church 4246 Boynton Drive, Ringgold, GA

Amanda W. Johnston, Field Associate

Cell: 706.974.9680 | Email: awjohnston@hgicrusade.net Web: www.hgicrusade.com/awjohnston

Mary & Martha’s P E R S O N A L

C A R E

Mary and Martha’s Personal Care provides assisted living for seniors who require personalized assistance, supportive services and compassionate care in a professionally managed and carefully designed suite.

Services We Provide:

• Housekeeping • Food Service • Laundry • Utilities • Maintenance • Smoke Free Atmosphere

Private & Semi-Private Rooms Available

706.866.7454 616 Mohawk St. • Rossville, GA

Gò0dNews from the Physician’s Desk

Is It a Stroke? Be Safe. Call 9-1-1.

by Meagan Darnell

T

wo million brain cells die every minute during stroke,

Get With The Guidelines®-

increasing risk of permanent brain damage, disability

Stroke Gold Plus Quality

or death. Recognizing symptoms and acting FAST to

Achievement Award.

get medical attention can save a life and limit disabilities.

Learn the Warning Signs of STROKE – Act F.A.S.T • Facial drooping

award by meeting specific quality achievement measures for the diagnosis

• Arm weakness

and treatment of stroke

• Speech difficulties

patients at a set level for a

• Time to call 911 New Sign of a Stroke—–Stick out Your Tongue!

Ask the person to ‘stick’ out his/her tongue. If the tongue is ‘crooked’, if it goes to one side or the other that is also an indication of a stroke. Seek medical attention immediately.

Dial Don’t Drive Patients transported by ambulance to the hospital have better outcomes than those brought in by family members.

Emergency Medical Services crews have the ability to notify the hospital of a potential stroke, mobilizing the stroke team before the patient even arrives.

Hamilton Medical Center’s primary stroke center program has earned the Gold Seal of Approval for healthcare quality.

“This certification means Hamilton Medical Center does the right things and does them well for stroke patients,” says Charles A. Mowll, executive vice president Business Development, Government and External Relations, Joint Commission.

Hamilton Medical Center also has received the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association’s

28 // May 2019

Hamilton earned the

designated period. These measures include evaluation of the proper use of medications and other stroke treatments aligned with the most up-to-date, evidence-based guidelines with the goal of speeding recovery and reducing death and disability for stroke patients. Before discharge, patients should also receive education on managing their health, schedule a follow-up visit, as well as other care transition interventions.

“Hamilton is dedicated to improving the quality of care for our stroke patients by implementing the American Heart Association’s Get With The Guidelines-Stroke initiative,” said Meagan Darnell, Stroke Program Coordinator. “We’re dedicated to providing stroke care that aligns with the latest research-based treatment guidelines. The tools and resources provided help us track and measure our success in meeting evidenced-based clinical guidelines developed to improve patient outcomes.”

Hamilton Medical Center 706.272.6000

HamiltonHealth.com/stroke

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Gò0dNews for Couples

A Cord of Three Strands

M

by Rachel Smith

y husband and I have been together for 16 years and

looking at our spouse’s imperfections and mistakes, we forget

married for 11 of those years. I wish I could say that we

to look in the mirror and examine our own lives. My pastor was

have perfected this thing called marriage, but you and I

teaching on marriage recently, and on the stage, he had a mirror

both know there’s no such thing. However, I can say that because

and a magnifying glass. He challenged us to stop looking at our

of everything we have been through and everything we have

spouses with a magnifying glass and instead to look at ourselves in

overcome together, our marriage is not easily broken.

the mirror.

Two weeks ago, we hosted a marriage conference with that exact name, “Not Easily Broken.” I was able to share with the

4. Learn what true love is.

True love is not all about butterflies, fairy tales, and living

couples some things the Lord revealed to me that will keep a

happily ever after. In the real world, you will have trouble. Real

marriage strong, and now I want to share them with you.

love isn’t always easy, and you don’t always feel like kissing,

1. Put God at the center of your marriage.

hugging, or even being intimate with your spouse. This is why

Even as Christians, my husband and I struggled for many

we must learn to love like Christ loves. He pursues a relationship

years because we really didn’t make God the center of our

with us and blesses us even though we have been sinful and

marriage. We didn’t study what God’s Word said about how

disobedient. Some would call this type of love foolish, but to God, it’s glorifying.

5. Forgive easily.

My husband and I both had to learn to forgive each other for all the horrible things we had said and done. It wasn’t easy, but it was required. “And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you” (Eph.4:32).

6. Be united.

The Bible says a house divided cannot stand. It’s very important to have unity in your marriage and strive to be more as one each day. I believe that nothing is impossible for a couple that has one mind and is in one accord.

7. Make your marriage a priority.

Don’t become so busy in life that you stop dating your spouse. Make sure you are planning date nights, spending

to be a husband and wife and how to love, honor, and cherish

quality time together, communicating, and meeting each

one another. We also didn’t pray together. It’s one thing to go to

other’s emotional and sexual needs. This helped our marriage

church every Sunday and hear God’s Word or to read your Bible

tremendously during our restoration.

every day, but if you are not applying it to your life and to your

8. Take divorce off the table.

marriage, you will not have a strong foundation.

2. Have the right mindset.

When I was fighting to save my marriage, I knew the first

Decide today that you will no longer let divorce be an option. Do whatever it takes to make your marriage work and stop threatening to leave your spouse every time your marriage gets hard. I believe if

thing I had to do was to ask God to transform my mind. Romans

you apply these principles to your marriage, your relationship will be

12:2 says, “And do not be conformed to this world, but be

“Not Easily Broken” and will become stronger each day.

transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove

“A cord of three strands is not quickly broken” (Ecclesiastes 4:12).

what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” If you want to have a strong marriage that is not easily broken, you must ask yourself this question: “How can I change to become a better spouse?” The problem is that many of us are so busy

30 // May 2019

About The Author

3. Be willing to look in the mirror.

Rachel Smith is the founder of Transformed Wife; a marriage ministry that helps couples learn God’s design for marriage. Since she started blogging in 2015, she has reached over 140 different countries and over 35,000 people. Her testimony of how God transformed her as a wife, and restored her marriage, is inspiring others all over the world. She has been involved in several different ministries since the age of 17, and she travels in the U.S. and internationally to speak and teach. Rachel is a certified Biblical marriage counselor. She has been married to her husband Richard for 11 years, and they have 3 children together.

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

Writing in My Bible

M

by Arlene Ledbetter

y mom laid her hand on my open Bible. “What

“Mama, you wrote something in your Bible.”

in the world are you doing?” she whispered.

“Yes,” she nodded. “The Sunday school quarterly made

I whispered back, “Writing what the preacher

just said.”

Mama pulled a spiral notepad from her big black purse and tore out a sheet. “Write on this, not in your Bible.”

a point I want to mention in class.”

“But, I thought you said it’s disrespectful to write in the Bible.”

The pink in her cheeks deepened. “Well, Mrs. Lahon,

An hour later, my stomach rumbled at the aroma of

the preacher’s wife, is my Sunday school teacher. I saw she

fried chicken piled high on a platter. I hadn’t been home

writes in her Bible, so I figure I can too. But, I only write in

from college in a month and looked forward to the meal my

pencil.”

mom had prepared.

I scooted the platter over a bit to make room for bowls of fried okra, sliced tomatoes, and mashed potatoes. “Mama, were you bothered by me writing in my Bible?”

My mom poured sweet tea into ice-filled glasses. “The Bible is the Word of God,” she said. “You should treat it with respect, not scribble in it.”

“I wasn’t scribbling, Mama, and I do respect the Bible.

When Brother Lahon said the word ‘believe’ appears about a hundred times in the Gospel of John, it sounded important, so I wrote it in the margin next to John 3:16.”

“Writing it down is fine: just not in your Bible.”

I laughed. “Good idea. Maybe you can erase it real quick if God gets mad.”

Do you write on a notepad or in your Bible? Pencil or permanent ink? Preferences aside, time spent reading, studying, and meditating on Scripture is never wasted.

Abraham Lincoln once said, “I believe the Bible is the best gift God has ever given to man. All the good from The Savior of the world is communicated to us through this Book.”

I wrote that statement in the front of my Bible. And yes, I used permanent ink.

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105).

her Bible and Sunday school quarterly on the end table and rose to greet me. Something about her Bible caught my eye.

32 // May 2019

About The Author

Six weeks passed before I came home again. Mama laid Arlene Ledbetter holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from Dalton College in Georgia. She has written adult Sunday school curriculum and contributed to five Chicken Soup for the Soul books. Visit her at www.arleneledbetter.net.

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

What To Do in Times of Uncertainty

R

by Wendy Pierce omans 8:28 says, “And we know that all things work

to Murfreesboro, Tennessee, in 2016 in order to attend

together for good to those who love God, to those

MTSU to earn a master’s degree and a PhD in Economics.

who are the called according to His purpose.”

It would take six years to complete both degrees. I applied

There are times in life when we face uncertainty.

to the PhD program in Economics in my last year of my

Maybe you are unsure about your job, your health, or

master’s degree. I applied very early, so I was accepted into

your finances. There have been times in my life when

the PhD program before the end of January. Now, all I had

I knew about a situation ahead of time and there have

to do was wait on an assistantship offer to secure a place

been other times in my life when I have been blindsided

for the PhD program.

by an unexpected situation in my life. Sometimes, we are

At the very end of the school year, right before graduation, I found out another master’s student wanted to do the PhD program instead of finishing their master’s degree.

This devastated me because there were only so many assistantships that would be offered and one more person could actually keep me from receiving an assistantship.

Well, I found out right at the end of the semester when I was studying for my final exams that I would not be receiving an assistantship.

I was devastated. I had no idea what I was going to do. At this time in the year, all of the schools had already accepted their PhD candidates and had offered their assistantships, so it was too late to apply or even be considered for another program.

Finally, though, I found out about a PhD program in Economic Policy at Liberty University. Economic Policy was the exact

so blindsided by our situation that we forget God is in

degree I wanted in the first place and, if I had stayed at

control of our lives and the situations we go through. We

MTSU, I would not have been able to pursue the degree I

become so consumed that we worry or feel anxious over

truly wanted. All I know is that God has everything under

the situation.

control even when we feel blindsided and have no idea

Have you ever thought about the fact that God

what to. He truly gives us the desires of our hearts.

knew you were going to go through that situation or He knows them long before we do. I made plans to move

34 // May 2019

About The Author

circumstance before you did? God knows all things, and Wendy Pierce has an MBA from Lee University and a MA in Economics from MTSU. She is currently an economics instructor and will be pursuing a PhD in Economic Policy from Liberty University.

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

Power is a Source, Not an Acquisition

by Kyle Blevins

I

love technology. One cool thing that’s common among

of the time it is just because I am being lazy or I am tired.

all kinds of technology nowadays is how they preserve

I do not feel like engaging. That other 90%, though, where

themselves. When we let devices like tablets, phones,

the bulk of the problem lies, is because I don’t know what’s

TVs, or computers sit idle for a while, they automatically

wrong. I feel “off” but I don’t really understand why. It is as

enter into either Sleep mode or Standby mode. They are still

if I am waiting on certain feelings to carry me through my

operational, but to save energy and therefore battery life,

day to accomplish all that I aim to do. When those feelings

many of the functions automatically turn off. They go dim,

are not there to make it easy for me, I go into Standby mode.

applications might close themselves out, and they become

Hopefully, someone or something will come along and wake me up.

The truth of the “problem” is that I am just not trying. In life, we must wake ourselves! See, the difference in the outcomes of waking my devices up versus waking myself up is found in my effort.

I often mistakenly think that power is something that I magically acquire and that when it comes, it will put me on autodrive. Power is a source of energy, though: not something that just happens to us. It isn’t found in having a 100% success rate in something. It isn’t found in having the most likes or recognition. It isn’t found in pleasing everyone. It is found in our effort. It is something that we must have the courage to draw from. To exercise

partially operational. I expect these devices to be fully

true power is to try in every circumstance. No matter what

operational when I am engaged with them. If they aren’t

has happened to us in the past or how that past may have

fully operational but I know it isn’t my error, it raises a red

shaped our future with fear, if it is power that we seek and

flag. I report it. I take it back to the store. I engage Geek

act upon, it is power we will receive (Matthew 7:7). Spend

Squad. “Red alert! Help me!” We take action. Sometimes

time today on this word from 2 Timothy 1:7: “For God has

there is no issue at all. It might just be time to plug the

not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of

device in.

a sound mind.” You are loved.

Have you ever found yourself operating at half capacity? I often find myself here. The funny thing is, but when it comes to my life being in Standby mode, I don’t put the same amount of energy into it. Why is that? 10%

36 // May 2019

About The Author

though, that when it comes to my devices, I will take action,

Once known more for his troubles and addictions, Kyle Blevins is now known for his leadership. Through encouragement and love, his life took a completely different direction toward purpose. He is a contributor to Crosswalk and Bible Study Tools, as well as his own blog.

You can follow and connect with him at Iamredirected.com.

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Gò0dNews for Women’s Health

Kissable Lips esthetic surgery of the lips has evolved as the field of cosmetic surgery and the study of aesthetic finesse have evolved. Luscious, full lips speak of youth and vitality. The lips thin as people age, and the wet line moves lower in reference to the dentition. In addition, the oral commissures begin to downturn. These thin, flat, and poorly defined lips impart a sense of age. Specific procedures address each of these labial-aging signs. Some of these procedures include augmentation to help restore full, well-defined, and proportional lips that impart a sense of beauty and youth.

The lips are the most malleable and animate of all facial features. Many consider them to be the most pleasing feature of the lower third of the face. Many of the techniques used on other areas of the face may not work on the lips because of their three-dimensional, animate nature. With this in mind, many methods are used to augment the lips and to change their animate shape, repose shape, or both.

The surgeon must always be aware of how static changes to the lip change the animate aesthetics and function of the lip.

Patients occasionally refer to this as “kissability.”

Initial attempts at beautifying the lips may have started with Cleopatra, who colored her lips red. Later, silicone was used to augment the soft tissue of the body and face, including the lips. Other materials were then developed that could be used for lip augmentation. Some of these materials include collagen, facial fillers, fat, and acellular human matrix, just to name a few. Many new injectable materials

38 // May 2019

used to augment the lips have become available, and many more are ready to be approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Temporary injectable materials are the most commonly used method of lip augmentation and reshaping. The problem with temporary injectable fillers is the fact that they are temporary.

The newest advanced lip augmentation procedures involve the placement of a solid silicone implant —similar to silicone implants used in breast augmentation procedures.

The solid silicone implant can be placed into the upper and lower lips through 3mm incisions in the corners of the mouth. These incision sites heal rapidly and are barely visible to inspection after placement. The silicone implants come in several different sizes for permanent lip enhancement. The old silicone injections, like the ones completed on Ms. Priscilla Presley, would cause lip deformity with invasive growth into the lip tissues. Injectable silicone is difficult to remove without major surgical excision.

Silicone implants, however, can be easily removed if the lip augmentation look is no longer desired.

The silicone implants have a soft, natural feel.

All lip procedures may be performed in an office surgical suite with local anesthetic (field block, nerve block), and this is, in fact, an ideal way to work on the lips. With general anesthesia, the lips become flaccid and adynamic. The ability for the patient to move the lips during surgery is a great advantage during the sculpture phase.

Again, well-defined, full lips speak of youth and vitality.

Take care to review “before” and “after” photographs of patients treated by your cosmetic surgeon. Make sure that your ideal of aesthetic sense is the same as your surgeon.

Beware of lip overfill; big pink slugs and platypus lips do not fit into the category of “kissability.” A little goes a long way. It is better to start with a small amount and complete a follow-up visit three weeks after initial injection to determine the need for additional fillers.

About The Author

A

by Dr. James White

Dr. James E. White is a board-certified General Surgeon by the American Board of Surgery and is a Fellow of the prestigious American College of Surgeons. His office, Advanced Surgical Concepts (ASC) is located at 2290 Ogletree Ave, Suite 112 in the Hamilton Office Park across from the Hamilton YMCA. ASC offers a variety of cosmetic procedures including varicose vein procedures, laser skin resurfacing, facial fillers, minimal invasive surgery and liposculpture. 423-648-4011 or visit www.advsurgical.com for a complimentary consultation.

Gò0dNews for Mothers

Day of the Okra

by Becky Gaspard

I

t was hot: the middle of summer in the middle of Georgia.

sections that looked hardly hoed at all because…they were

The creek was running close by with the promise and

hardly hoed at all. She’d see it all! I can still see her face and

temptation of cool water cascading over hot feet and

hear her voice: “Do it again and this time, do it right!”

splashing on hot faces, but the promise of the creek was

I was angry that day but now, as an adult, I see more

not for me: not until the okra was hoed. I really didn’t like

clearly. She wasn’t being mean; she was being “mom”

okra! Didn’t like it fried. Didn’t like it boiled. Didn’t like it,

and teaching me life lessons. She hadn’t been under a tree

period. The last thing in the world I wanted to do on this hot

drinking iced tea while I worked, as my childish mind

day was to hoe okra and get its stinging nettles all over my

had envisioned, but had actually been up three hours

hands, arms, and legs. But, here I was. I just knew, deep down, that my mom made me hoe this okra because she knew I hated it. It was for spite! My 10-year-old mind just knew it.

My hoe smacked and bounced against the hard ground all the way down the rows of okra—several rows of okra. When I finally reached the last plant on the last row, I ran, dragging my hoe with me, all the way to the house to tell mom that I had finished. I was finally going to get to jump in the creek and cool off! “Mom, I’m finished,” I hollered as the screen door slammed shut behind me. She came out of the kitchen to see what all the yelling was about and there I stood, ready for the cherished words to

earlier already out in the garden: hoeing. My childish mind

flow from her mouth. “That’s wonderful, Becky. Please go

couldn’t comprehend that there were nine children to be fed

and enjoy the creek.” But instead, I heard, “Let’s go check.”

and, with dad pastoring a small church, that garden would

Wait…what? Go check my work in the garden? No, no, no! I

feed us in the year to come.

didn’t think she’d check the garden! But it was too late. She was already on her way.

I followed her out the back door, down the stairs, across

My mom: she taught me the importance of a job well done. She touched the future. My future. She’s 98 years old this month and still a treasure. Well done, mom. Well done.

the back yard, and into the garden, dragging my hoe behind and maimed baby okra plants along the way, laying amongst the weeds I had not chopped down. She’d see the

40 // May 2019

About The Author

me because I knew she’d see that I had left many wounded Hello! My name is Becky Gaspard. I’m the daughter of a pastor and the wife of a missionary. I’m so excited to share one story of the many things I remember from my childhood. I hope it blesses you.

Gò0dNews

Christian Magazine

Mission Statement:

W

Writer Guidelines:

e believe when people are equipped,

Who: Our writers range from pastors, professors, and

motivated, and passionately engaged in

professional writers to stay at home moms and dads,

living out their faith in Jesus Christ they

business professionals, and others who have a desire to

have the potential to be world changers.

Our mission is to bring people into a dynamic

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

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

goodnewscm.com Phone: 423.478.6484

reach out to people through words of encouragement.

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

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

Gò0dNews from a Woman’s Heart

A Woman of God

A

by Brittany Ramirez

s women, we are given many different titles:

As a woman of God, my heart’s desire is to be

daughter, sister, wife, mother, aunt, friend,

an overcomer. I want to overcome obstacles in faith,

and many more. With these titles comes

rather than tiptoeing around them in fear; I want to

great responsibility and even greater honor.

be someone who worships in awe of His goodness

Today, I want to share about

a title that we should hold dear and cling to, and that is being a woman of God. This is the woman I want to be, more than any of the titles I listed above. I want this the most. My heart’s desire is that there was never any doubt that I was (and still am) a woman seeking after God with every fiber of my being.

A woman of God is, first and foremost, a daughter of God. A woman of God seeks to know Him by reading His Word and spending time in prayer. A woman of God believes that the Word of God is spirit-breathed and that every word

and not someone who worries about the “what ifs.”

is true.

God is sweet and gentle. He longs for a relationship

As we grow and as God molds us into this

with us—not just women, but men as well. He wants

woman, He allows (and teaches) us to be a wife and

all of us: every single part of us. That is His heart’s

a mother to beautiful children who come into this

desire: that we are all known as a woman (or man)

world depending fully on us and who need us. But,

of God.

too often, we aren’t aware of how much we needed

I pray this reaches someone who may be

them: to show us how to love, be patient, and be

struggling, someone who wants that relationship

kind, who teach us to slow down and smell the roses

but may not know where to start. I pray that the

(sometimes literally). He allows us to be a friend and

overwhelming love of the Father wraps you up and

to reach out to others who need a helping hand. He

that you embrace it. You will not regret it.

and how He wants us to be.

42 // May 2019

About The Author

gives us the honor to be His hands and feet where Brittany Ramirez is married to Hernando and they have two children. She attends Avenue Church in Cleveland, Tennessee.

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Contact Debbie Hughes Membership Coordinator for Chamber Membership Information 423-838-2165 CatoosaChamberofCommerce.com Office 706-965-5201

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