May 2020

Gò0dNews May 2020

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About Us WRITERS

Amy Scott Andrew Lee Andrew Towe Arlene Ledbetter Dave Carringer David Ivarson Filip Brunner Kaye Stein Mary Anderson Beard Nelson Haynes Rachel Smith Shane Franks Theodore Young, Jr. Virginia Piper

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Matthew Ruckman 423-503-1410

DESIGN

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PHOTOGRAPHER Paula Knipp 423-310-4207

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

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when God, family, and community are combined, GoodNews Christian Magazine is a complimentary, Christian lifestyle publication. You can find us throughout the community in retail establishments, churches, restaurants, and more. Our magazine opens the door for Christians to work together to grow and strengthen our community through relevant editorial and effective advertising.

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Our hearts are open and willing to be used by God to reach out to the community to spread the GoodNews!

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Such contents does not constitute advice and should not be relied upon in making (or refraining from making) a decision. Any specific advice or replies to queries in any part of the magazine is the personal opinion of such experts/consultants/persons and is not subscribed to by GoodNews Christian Magazine. The information in GoodNews Christian Magazine is provided on an “AS IS� basis, and all warranties, expressed or implied of any kind, regarding any matter pertaining to any information, advice or replies are disclaimed and excluded. We reserve the right to refuse any advertisement or article we deem inappropriate.

Contents M AY 2 0 2 0

GoodNews from the Pastor’s Desk

6 God’s Arrows Are Being Launched!

by Andrew Towe

GoodNews for Kids

8

Big God Delivers

by Filip Brunner

GoodNews on Money Matters

10 Being a Good Steward

by Andrew Lee

GoodNews for Men

12 Unpack

by Nelson Haynes

GoodNews for Women

14 Childlike Faith

by Rachel Smith

GoodNews for Health & Fitness

18 CBD Products—What’s All

The Buzz? Oh, Wait—There’s Not One.

by Dave Carringer GoodNews for Parents

20 Finding Myself At Home

by Amy Scott

GoodNews Cover Story

22 Buying Real Estate Covid-19 Edition

GoodNews for Teens

26 Slow Down

by David Ivarson

GoodNews from the Physician’s Desk

28 Be FAST

GoodNews for Couples

30 An Unselfish Love

by Theodore Young, Jr.

GoodNews for your Taste Buds

32 Fish Florentine

by Mary Anderson Beard

6

GoodNews for Everyone

34 The Deal with Sheep

by Arlene Ledbetter

GoodNews for Everyone

36 Troublesome Waves

by Shane Franks

GoodNews Business Spotlight

38 Homescape Pros GoodNews for Mothers

40 A Mother’s Call To Arms

by Kaye Stein

22

GoodNews for Everyone

42 Shoes Worn Well

by Virginia Piper

36

Gò0dNews from the Pastor’s Desk

God’s Arrows Are Being Launched!

T

by Andrew Towe he Lord recently showed me a vision of an archer

“He made my words of judgment as sharp as a sword.

with a bow and arrow. I saw the archer place his

He has hidden me in the shadow of his hand. I am like a

arrow next to the bow and release it. It sadly fell to

sharp arrow in his quiver” (Isaiah 49:2).

the ground. It was not properly launched. Then I looked

Arrows are long-ranged weapons. They are known to

again and saw the archer take his bow and load his arrow.

travel hundreds of yards to hit their intended target. God

I watched as he pulled back both his arrow and bowstring

has long-ranged, and not just short-term, plans for your

and released the arrow into the air. This time brought a

life. God is moving in the midst of the pressure of your

very different finish.

life. Recognize that it is God who allows the resistance, knowing it is in the pullback that the success of the launch will be certain.

This is the year that God is accelerating His promises to His children. There will be more accomplished in just one year than in the last 10 combined.

There are several examples of the pullback in the Bible, such as in the lives of Moses, Joseph, Samson, and David. The one that stands out to me the most is Joseph. Joseph’s life could easily be summed up as a rollercoaster of starts and stops—favor was given, accompanied by promotion, then the persecution and lies came with the casting down to a lower state. Have

I heard the Lord say, “Everyone is anxious to go

some of you, too, experienced a similar situation?

forward, but unless they allow Me, the Master Archer, to

Have you taken one step forward and then three steps

pull them back, they will fall to the ground like the first

backward? If that is you, you are in good company. God

arrow you saw. I have pulled back many of My arrows,

is pulling you back, allowing tension, because His plan is

but this is the hour that I will release them to shoot forth.

to catapult you into your destiny. Your purpose requires

Arrows cannot be launched without one key factor: tension. Furthermore, the distance that the arrow travels depends on the might of the Archer. I am the Strong

speed for the long haul. You have been sharpened and have become a dangerous weapon in the Lord’s arsenal.

You must understand that you are not a victim of

One. I use the resistance to cause My arrows to soar to

your circumstances, but rather the Lord has used your

the place I have targeted for them, and they will not stall

circumstances, pulling you back to launch you forward.

launch forward and to soar.”

6 // May 2020

About The Author

out. You have been hidden in my quiver for this time to Andrew Towe and his wife, Brooke, together pastor Ramp Church Chattanooga. They have two beautiful children. Even as Ezekiel was carried out by the spirit to the valley of dry bones, Pastor Andrew has been called to speak the prophetic message of awakening to the Tennessee Valley, raising up an army of believers from the dry scattered bones and equipping them to advance the kingdom of God.

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Gò0dNews for Kids

Big God Delivers

by Filip Brunner

H

owever, does God have to deliver? More precisely,

the city, behold, the widow woman was there gathering of

is God obligated to “do” anything for His Creation?

sticks: and he called to her, and said, Fetch me, I pray thee,

In a world of superheroes like “The X-Men”

a little water in a vessel, that I may drink. And as she was

and “The Avengers,” it is no wonder that people are

going to fetch it, he called to her, and said, Bring me, I pray

disillusioned with the day-to-day same old same old. We are

thee, a morsel of bread in thine hand. And she said, As the

searching for something greater outside of ourselves, and

Lord thy God liveth, I have not a cake, but an handful of

we fail to find it.

meal in a barrel, and a little oil in a cruse: and, behold, I am

First, God always delivers (according to His own will).

gathering two sticks, that I may go in and dress it for me

God is able. We quote Philippians 4:19: “But my God shall

and my son, that we may eat it, and die. And Elijah said

supply all your need according to his riches in glory by

unto her, Fear not; go and do as thou hast said: but make

Christ Jesus” as if it were some magical formula and then

me thereof a little cake first, and bring it unto me, and after

act hurt and disappointed when God does not deliver the

make for thee and for thy son.”

things we want.

God expected the widow to take care of the needs of

We forget the context of the passage, which is that we need to finance the ministry of the Gospel of Jesus Christ

God’s minister first, and then He sustained her household, including Elijah, for the duration of the famine.

and not be afraid to do so because God will supply our

“For thus saith the Lord God of Israel, The barrel of

needs. It was the same with the biblical account of the

meal shall not waste, neither shall the cruse of oil fail, until

widow of Zarephath and the prophet Elijah in 1 Kings 17.

the day that the Lord sendeth rain upon the earth.”

There was a famine in Israel, and God told the prophet

I have to ask myself, how big is my God, and how much

Elijah to go to Zarephath and live with a widow and her

do I trust Him? Do I take care of the needs of the ministry

son, and God promised to take care of them there.

of Gospel first, or do I expect God to jump each time I have

And when he came to the gate of

8 // May 2020

a need or want I want God to fulfill? My God knows my needs, and He wants me to exercise my faith.

About The Author

“So he arose and went to Zarephath.

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

He is a writer, author, and artist.

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Being a Good Steward 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.

O

n March 18th, just as most of us were starting to “shelter in place” with the coronavirus spreading, I tuned in to the Dave Ramsey radio show. It happened to be during the “Millionaire Theme Hour,” when Dave talks to actual millionaires whose net worth was over one million dollars. One particular story I heard during this episode was unforgettable. Here’s how it started: a forty-seven-year-old man called into the show.

What’s his net worth? $12.7 million dollars. How did he acquire this money? In a highly unusual and tragic way.

One of his older sisters had died in a horrible house fire, and with the settlement from the subsequent lawsuit, he had received $1 million dollars at age fifteen. His mother and other older sisters put the million dollars into a “Trust” with attorneys and financial advisors managing the money for him. He wouldn’t be able to access the million dollars until he turned twenty-five. During those ten years, from age fifteen until age twenty-five, he received only $200 as a monthly allowance. He turned twenty-five in 1998, and by that time, his $1 million dollars was worth $3 million. How did this happen?

The short answer is this: it happened as a result of the love and thoughtful concern of his mother and other sisters who were wise enough to (1) put the money into a Trust so he couldn’t access it until age twenty-five and (2) hire skilled and conscientious attorneys and financial advisors to manage the money for them. During the ten years waiting period between fifteen to twenty-five years old, the trustees invested the money into stock mutual funds, and from time to time they purchased shares in new and growing companies such as Microsoft, Amazon,

10 // May 2020

and Google. The young man’s friends, being normal teens, encouraged him to go on a spending spree for his twentyfifth birthday. “Buy an Italian sports car!” they said. “Buy a boat! Buy a mansion!” But, as he described on air during this live radio show, he felt too guilty since the money was a result of his sister’s horrific death in the fire. So, he didn’t spend any of it, but instead kept it invested. One of his older sisters noticed his anguish and encouraged him to donate that first $1 million dollars to a worthy cause, so he did just that. At age twenty-five, he immediately donated one million dollars to a critical care burn unit at a local hospital in honor of his dead sister. And the remaining $2 million dollars kept growing and growing.

Since that first million-dollar donation which was twenty-two years ago, this man has spent nothing else from the money he received in the settlement. But he has continued to make generous donations from that money to hospital burn units across the country, and today the money has grown to nearly $13 million dollars. Today, at age 47, this man makes a fine living earning $170, 000 as a senior-level information technology specialist, and he intends to donate most of his trust money that he received from his sister’s tragic death. He ended his call by breaking down into tears and reminding listeners not to take life for granted and to cherish every moment with loved ones because we have no idea if today may be our last here on earth. Because his family was wise enough to plan ahead, this man will do immeasurable good for countless others with the wealth he was blessed with--a good steward of the Lord. “To whom much is given, much will be required” (Luke 12:48b).

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Gò0dNews for Men

Unpack

W

by Nelson Haynes

hat happens when you scramble the word

tendency to focus on the load instead of appreciating the

silent? You get listen. Interesting. How can

grandeur of creation. Once the backpack comes off, I’m able

anyone listen without first being silent?

to see things more clearly.

Whenever I hiked trails in the Pisgah National

What makes the backpacks we carry in life so

Forest of North Carolina, or in the Smoky Mountains of

emotionally draining? Inside a backpack are different

Tennessee, nature had a way of commanding an eerie kind

compartments. Yours might include a side pocket of anxiety,

of quietness. Reverence.

while others have zippered sections called habitual sins.

From “All That is Made,” authors Geoff Gentry and

Maybe you keep the doubts section snapped shut. There’s

Bryan Ye-Chung contribute, “It is hard to live on the Earth

the suffering and trials pouch that won’t stay closed because

in the 21st century and not be painfully aware that life is

a new problem keeps sticking out. The lower compartment

full of noise. We bounce from notifications, to social media

in your backpack carries the weight of everything else.

timelines, to advertisements, to endless entertainment

Yours may have holes in it. In that section, you might have

options. Most of us love it. Conversation is constant. We

stretched the contents of bitterness to the max, and it leaks

live distracted lives, turning our days into content that we

out into every part of your life. Maybe it’s time to drop your

fire into the world at an alarming rate. This hurried and

backpack. Unpack it.

marginless living is undergirded by the anxiety of always being ‘on.’”

Gentry and Ye-Chung take us a step further: “In silence, our soul is quieted. Our burdens—the things we carry, can

Yeah, if we don’t hit the “off” switch, we’ll shut down.

A great place to get away from the noise of life is the great outdoors. I love hiking, but a drawback to carrying a heavy backpack is the

rise to the surface. Our pain and suffering can be named.

Our chaos can be calmed. Our lives can settle in the presence of God’s Spirit. Silence is for calming, for emptying out, for letting go. In silence, we allow Jesus to do his work.”

Part of His work is speaking to us, but we need to listen to what Elijah referred to as God’s still, small voice. We need to hear from Him because the journey of life is lonely at times. Your journey is solitary because it is unique to you.

You may hear God’s still, small voice as you read a passage of Scripture. You may hear it as you take a walk around your neighborhood. You may hear it when you get alone to pray.

Peter must have unpacked his load a time or two. May his words encourage you: “Give all your worries and cares

About The Author

to God, for He cares about you” (1 Peter 5:7).

12 // May 2020

Nelson Haynes lives in Ringgold, Georgia, with his wife and 2 Labrador Retrievers. Both of their daughters are grown. Check out his writer’s blog at www.nelsonhaynes500words.com for more meditations. He has a Masters in Christian Education from Dallas Theological Seminary and besides writing, his hobbies include riding his mountain bike; reading; movies; gardening ; painting and going on dates with his bride.

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Gò0dNews for Women

Childlike Faith

by Rachel Smith

I

can remember back to when I was a little girl in Sunday

and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right

school, and I was amazed at all the Bible stories I heard.

hand” (Isaiah 41:10).

I loved learning about heroic figures such as Samson,

I think it’s imperative that we don’t forget the God we

David, and Moses. As a child, it was easy to believe that

serve. We serve a God who was the fourth person in the

everything I read was true. It was easy to imagine God’s

burning fire with Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. We

shutting the mouths of lions in the lion’s den, or the Red

serve a God who used a young boy named David to defeat

Sea’s being parted as the Israelites passed through on dry

a giant. We serve a God who raised Lazarus from the dead.

And we serve a God who has conquered death, hell, and the grave! Is anything too hard for our God? He is bigger than the Coronavirus or any other sickness or disease.

I find it interesting that the disciples who walked with Jesus and saw Him perform many miracles still requested that He increase their faith. Obviously they knew that it is by faith partnered with God’s power that miracles would be performed. Even Jesus Himself limited His miracles in His hometown because the people lacked faith (Matthew 13:58). If we want to see a shift in

ground. But I think as we get older, sometimes we allow

our circumstances, and we want to see God reverse all the

some of that childlike faith to fade away.

damage that Coronavirus has caused, then we must put our

When the news of the Coronavirus disease (COVID-19)

trust in the Lord. It’s time that God’s people increase their

began to increase, and I began to pray, I felt in my spirit

prayers, their worship, their time in the Word, their time

that the Lord wants us as Christians to increase our faith.

doing Kingdom work, and their faith.

I believe this is a season when God wants to bring back childlike faith in each of us. I know that this disease has

“And whatever you ask in prayer, you will receive, if you have faith” (Matthew 21:22).

caused fear, anxiety, and uncertainty in many people, but if we really believe that God is who He says He is, then what over again to not fear: “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you

14 // May 2020

About The Author

shall we fear? We are commanded in His Word over and

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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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 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

16 // May 2020

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

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

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 Catoosa

6141 Three Notch Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-397-4115 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 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 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 Health & Fitness

CBD Products—What’s All The Buzz?

Oh, Wait—There’s Not One.

by Dave Carringer

I

n 2019, the U.S. made positive regulatory changes regarding

hemp/CBD products (6/16/19) and was one of the pioneers helping

products containing Cannabidiol (CBD). Consumers have

to bring CBD to the consumer market. They also own a respected

reported beneficial effects in pain, stress, and sleep. Chronic pain

pharmaceutical division and are therefore a favorite of M.D.s who

patients are reporting CBD makes a noticeable difference in daily

send patients for quality products they trust. Barlean’s has earned

life function without side effects of prescription drugs. CBD is also

countless awards and has been named “No. 1 Health Food Store

getting attention in areas of depression, inflammation, nerve pain

Brand” and “Manufacturer of the Year” numerous times over their

and disorders, and even reports of helping alleviate cancer-related

30-year history. Our broad-spectrum products (certified THC free)

symptoms and treatment side effects.

are by Garden of Life, a premier whole food/supplement company

These new regulations, along with consumers reporting various physical and mental benefits, have created a market flooded with new CBD companies, stores, and products even being sold in smoke shops and convenience stores. This market explosion raises legitimate questions. Are all CBD products the same? Are they safe? Which ones can I trust? If you’re curious about CBD, I’ll briefly touch on a few basic facts to help get you started in the right direction.

There are 3 major groups of CBD products.

“Full-spectrum” (or whole-plant) products contain CBD along with terpenes and other cannabinoids. This group has an advantage known as the “entourage effect,” simply meaning the cannabinoids and terpenes work synergistically for maximum results. Full-spectrum products have a very low (less than 0.3%) THC content with no “intoxicating” effects whatsoever. Still,

known for excellence since 2000. We offer several different

people subject to drug tests should be aware that (just like eating

strengths of drops, sprays, capsules, soft gels, gummies, roll-ons,

culinary hemp oil, poppy seeds, or hemp protein) they can trigger

and salves.

a positive drug test. “Broad-spectrum” products are typically the

These three U.S. Hemp Authority Certified companies have 60

choice for those with drug testing concerns or sensitivity to THC.

years’ combined experience. Along with superbly clean extraction

These also have an array of cannabinoids and terpenes with CBD

processes, their fully traceable, sustainably grown non-GMO

but contain zero THC. “Isolate” products contain only CBD that’s

products are third-party independently tested to ensure the

been isolated from everything else and are mixed with carrier oils

highest-quality CBD with no hidden pesticides or contaminants.

or in powder form.

As leaders of the CBD market with experience and standards most

Although CBD is extracted from hemp, hemp oil is not

companies only wish they could claim, we’re proud to carry their

the same as CBD. All CBD companies, product standards, and

products at Abundant Living. If you have further questions about

extraction processes are not equal. It’s advisable to research

CBD or other health-related products, stop by and we’ll be happy

companies apart from product sales reps or brochures. Attractive

to assist you!

a safe, quality product.

Our full-spectrum products at Abundant Living are by CV Sciences and Barlean’s. CV Sciences is rated No. 1 in SPINS data for

18 // May 2020

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

About The Author

labels and smooth sales pitches won’t guarantee you’re purchasing

Dave Carringer is the owner of Abundant Living, which has joyfully served the Cleveland area since 2005.

They offer organic groceries, high quality supplements, vitamins, CBD, herbs, and essential oils. Fruition Juice and Smoothie Bar is also located inside the store.

LIST YOUR CHURCH ACTIVITIES & EVENTS Such As:

• SPECIAL EVENTS • CONCERTS • CONFERENCES • ACTIVITIES • & MORE! Send Your Events To: articles.goodnews@gmail.com

Gò0dNews for Parents

Finding Myself At Home

T

by Amy Scott

oday I am on day 25 of sheltering at home – For

impatient and short tempered. We’ve leaned into each other,

more than three weeks, I have held several roles that

apologized, and moved forward. There have been tears shed

many of you can relate to—lunch lady (and breakfast

on numerous occasions. We are all grieving the life that was

lady and dinner lady for that matter), teacher, principal,

put on pause. Those hard moments have been outweighed

cleaning lady, activity director, lysol lady, chief comforter,

by truly good moments – simple moments I pray that my

gardener, household toilet paper hoarder, fear dispeller,

kids remember for years to come like sitting around the

and chief grocery getter just to name a few. I’ve always done

table enjoying a prolonged meal, playing board games,

all of these things in some capacity, but the intensity of the

practicing new languages on fun apps, walks around the neighborhood, cooking together, noticing the unfolding of nature, and worshipping together from our couch to name a few.

We’ve been intentional about connecting with the outside world virtually, and have treasured moments to see our friends on screen and call people who we would probably not typically reach out to.

I would not wish illness upon anyone, but since we are in this unprecedented season, I am thankful for the opportunity to reset reality – I never want to forget the mom I met within me during this time. She is brave, confident, creative, caring, outgoing, and accomplished – because she more fully leans into the Lord. Philippians 1:6 states,

last few weeks has been unparalleled. This is in addition to

“He who began a good work in you will carry it on to

my full-time job of running a non-profit organization from

completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” As I find myself

home. Truth be known, I’ve always felt more accomplished

imagining what the new normal will be like once this season

outside the home. Accolades come easy at the office, and

has ended, I am filled with hope that reflected in that new

I consider myself mediocre at best as a homemaker, cook,

normal is a slower and simpler pace, one where our family

housekeeper, mom, wife, friend. I’ve always struggled with

values each other more deeply, our faith is strong and we

measuring up, but this season of sheltering at home has led

pursue true connection with those around us. I also pray

me to lean more closely into the Lord who teaches me that

that we don’t forget those who have not had such a positive

I am enough. 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 states, “Therefore I am

time sheltering at home – and may proactively need our

well content with weaknesses, with insults, with distress,

support and love once this season ends, and we answer the

with persecutions, with difficulties, for Christ’s sake; for

call to be there for them.

To say that all of the moments of the last 25 days have been rosy would be a lie – there are moments we’ve all been

20 // May 2020

About The Author

when I am weak, then I am strong.”

Amy Scott is the Executive Director of Bethany Christian Services of Greater Chattanooga. She is an adoptee who passionately serves the adoption community for over ten years. Amy resides in North Georgia with her husband and three daughters.

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FEATURED COVER STORY

S

Buying Real Estate Covid-19 Edition

aws buzzing, builders building, offers flying, buyers

the virus may no longer be offered. Rodney Long at First

buying…2020 spring real estate is in the air! Not this

Bank in Ringgold gives us this guidance. “The mortgage

year.

credit supply dropped to the lowest point in five years

National, state, and local shutdowns have changed most

according to MBA’s Mortgage Credit Availability Index.

all aspects of our daily lives and how we conduct business.

MGA Associate Vice President Joel Kan Said, ‘Lenders are

Working from home and social distancing may become

making credit criteria changes to account for the increased

more of the norm even after the official quarantines end.

likelihood of forbearance and defaults, as well as higher

Our family of agents are here to help.

costs.’ Higher credit score requirements are one example of

For those of you looking to buy a home, the first thing to do is refresh your information with your lender, and yes, you can still watch NetFlix and do it from your phone.

Interest rates are still at historic lows, however, over the past month and a half, the lenders have begun tightening requirements. Where before you may have qualified with a 580 credit rating, you could be required to have a 620 or much higher and certain loan programs available before

22 // May 2020

stricter standards being put in place.”

Buying Virtually Once you’ve gotten your loan program selected and are reassured that you can obtain any necessary financing, it's time to start looking for your next home! You will begin crafting your home buying plan with your agent by reviewing all your required, desired, and wished for features of your new home. You will use your personal

smartphone, tablet, or computer to review your daily search results that not only show you what is available, but also includes recently sold properties you just missed.

When you see a home you like, let your agent know and they will assist you in reviewing the details and get any questions answered you may have. 3D Virtual Walkthroughs provide a great way to “walk” through each room and explore the kitchen and master bathrooms in 360 degrees. When you escape on your next necessary excursion, doing a drive by will let you see where the nearest gas station, fast food or grocery store is to the property. If you see an interesting home while you’re out, jot it down, and let your agent know when you're safely back.

You’ve narrowed it down to a few homes, now what?

Your agent will schedule your guided virtual tour, and head to the property. With tools such as FaceTime, Zoom, and others, your agent gives you a guided tour. All while you cook breakfast or get another mug of coffee. If you would like to tour the home personally, we can help make that a safer visit as well! To best protect everyone's family, we ask that you wear protective measures such as masks, gloves, and booties over your shoes while we are inside the property. It is also recommended not to bring young children during tours, so you may need to find a babysitter. Your agent will open the door, turn on the lights, and provide access to areas for you to inspect.

Afterward, they will close and lock up the home when you're ready to leave. You didn’t touch a thing! Woot!

This is the one! Your agent will guide you through the process of preparing and submitting your best offer, while helping you plan the next steps. NextHome Plus utilizes electronic document preparation, so you can review and sign your forms from your smartphones, tablet or computer wherever you are. We will also assist with keeping track of all the important dates. From home inspection, pickup and delivery of your earnest money, and any further negotiations, we are here to help you understand and navigate each step along the way. On closing day, you can have your bank wire the funds to the title company, utilize a mobile notary service to come to you and collect your signatures or do it safely in person still at a local closing company.

We can also suggest a local moving company to help get everything to your new home.

Throughout all of the process, we are here to smooth out any bumps in the road to make the purchase of your NextHome as stress free and safe as possible.

For Trace Mashburn, the owner of real estate brokerage NextHome Plus, the success he has enjoyed while working in the real estate industry stems largely from his upbringing.

Trace comes from a farming family, and he learned what hard work and home ownership could provide for a family as he grew up. He was able to see the value of home ownership firsthand as his father, Alvin, turned the land they owned into equity to purchase almost 12 acres of land in 1977 for $62,500. Alvin developed that land into a business park, which was something that interested Trace.

“I really enjoyed watching my father take a piece of dirt and turn it into a viable commercial business park,” Trace said.

“It started my real estate career with a background that most people don’t get to experience.”

This business park became the home of two of his father’s businesses: Remco Business Center and Remco

goodnewscm.com // 23

to be the best in the business. NextHome’s package includes everything from transaction management and CRM to marketing materials, all freshly branded and ready to go. I didn’t have to reinvent the wheel.”

Trace initially found out about NextHome, which is based in California, through the national real estate news source Inman News, and he found himself being drawn to the company’s progressive nature and established track record of success. “What piqued my interest was the passion that [NextHome CEO] James Dwiggins had when he was describing the things that were broken in our industry,” Trace said. “The commitment to technology made me realize that this franchise was built for today’s buyers and sellers but could also move with the times.”

In June 2015, Trace became the owner and operator of NextHome Plus, the first NextHome franchise in the state of Georgia and just the 22nd franchise with NextHome at the time. Located in Ringgold, Trace’s brokerage is dedicated to serving the needs of clients in two states: Georgia and Tennessee. NextHome Plus serves Georgia residents in Ringgold, Fort Oglethorpe, Lafayette, Rossville, and the Equipment Sales and Rentals. As Alvin expanded on developing land, Trace assisted in the management of Remco Business Center and the tenants and became the vice president of the equipment business.

Trace first became a licensed realtor in 2005. Over the next several years, he worked with several real estate firms in the area and developed a successful real estate sales career. “As a realtor, we have the honor of helping people with what is, for most, the largest financial transaction and investment of their lives: purchasing or selling their home.”

As Trace continued working and helping the community, the thought of owning his own brokerage became more and more appealing. He wanted to own a brokerage that would continue his principles of client service above all else.

Seven years later, in 2012, Trace partnered with a pair of his investor clients and opened a property management company, which was his first experience as a licensed broker. In 2015, he discovered NextHome, Inc., an independently owned company with a focus on changing the way consumers work with local agents and shop for real estate online.

“NextHome was exactly what I was looking for in a franchise,” Trace said. “I wanted an all-in-one system that provided my agents with the tools and training they needed

24 // May 2020

rest of Catoosa and Walker Counties. In Tennessee, the brokerage services clients in Chattanooga, Ooltewah, East Brainerd, and Hixson. The office offers residential and commercial sales, land acquisition, land development, and farm sales, as well as property management services.

As Trace has grown his business, his franchisors have grown to appreciate his work ethic and community-focused mentality. “When I first met with Trace, I knew that he was a driven individual who wanted to provide a level of real estate service in his community that isn’t normally experienced,” said NextHome Vice President of Sales Charis Moreno. “Every person on our team that has had the chance to work with Trace has said the same thing—he combines professionalism and dedication with being one of the nicest people you will ever meet. As we expand NextHome, Trace is exactly the quality of broker and person we are proud to be affiliated with.”

NOW HIRING AGENTS!

NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY

Have you ever considered a career in Real Estate? Why not work with a company who knows what they are doing and how to get the job done? No experience n e c e s s a r y. N o w h i r i n g a g e n t s f o r o u r o ff i c e i n R i n g g o l d , G e o r g i a .

Call us today for more information.

105 RBC Drive Ringgold, GA 30736 706.935.6398 Each NextHome Office Is Independently Owned And Operated.

NEXTHOMEPLUS.COM BENEFITS • EXCELLENT IN HOUSE TRAINING • TEAM BASED ATMOSPHERE • FLEXIBLE WORK HOURS • GREAT CLOSING TEAM

TRACE MASHBURN REALTOR/BROKER trace@nexthomeplus.com

Gò0dNews for Teens

Slow Down

by David Ivarson

I

have recently been challenged to slow down. My family

for me. This is extremely important because of my tendency

life has been crazy for years, especially since we adopted

to quickly forget His promises and His character.

our second child from China in 2018, which gives us

I heard a statement not too long ago that is also a

five children. Our family moved into a new house in 2019

timely reminder for all of us—The most dangerous thing

two days before Thanksgiving. Our kids play musical

about control is when I think I actually have some. God is

instruments, tennis, basketball, baseball, participate in the

in control so I don’t have to be. When I accept this truth, I

school play, and take Taekwondo. Crazy is our normal and

feel free of the burden to perform for anyone other than my

we embrace it, but I have been struggling for almost two

Creator. It has taken a season of slowing down in the wake

years with the feeling that something needs to change so we

of COVID-19 for me to be reminded of this truth in a way

can make better connections with our family members and

that has really gotten my attention, so I want to challenge

with those God has strategically placed in our lives.

you to experience and practice giving up control (the control

If you are anything like me, you often feel like the world is spinning out of control around us and that we have little or no control over what is

that none of us really have anyway) and to rehearse the art of slowing down.

Here is a way to embrace slowing down: three

happening now or will happen in the future. God

separate times this week, spend 30 minutes in

is challenging me and I want to challenge you

silence and prayer with God. Here are the rules:

with the promise that even when things seem the most out of control, the God of the universe is still in control of everything, and that includes our hearts. His being

do not use any electronics during this time, you must be alone, and you can’t watch TV or any other media. The only things you can have are a Bible,

in control comes with the assurance

a notebook, and a pen. Find a quiet

that He is always working things out

place—your bedroom, outside,

for His glory and for my good. Right

wherever you can be quiet and sit

now, God is specifically teaching

silently—but no sleeping. If you

and reminding me of His control

can’t get through 30 minutes,

as I am reading through the Book

try again next time. Use these

of Genesis. Seeing how God used

passages (there are so many

Joseph’s struggles and seasons of

other good ones too) to guide your

waiting to save His chosen people

prayers: Psalm 37, Psalm 62, and

and even the ungodly nation of

Psalm 73! When things around us

Egypt reminds me that His plans

adapt again to become pressured

are so much bigger and broader

and busy, be the voice that speaks

than my plans (see Genesis

loudly for the benefits of

50:20)! I have seen in my life

slowing down and placing our

that God takes the time to

hope in God alone because

remind me often of His

He is the one who controls all

control and His plan

things for His glory and for our good. You can do this, and I

26 // May 2020

believe in you!

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Gò0dNews from the Physician’s Desk

Be FAST

Remember “Be Fast” and call 9-1-1 when experiencing the symptoms of a stroke: Balance Loss

Hamilton Medical Center Receives National Stroke Award Hamilton Medical Center recently received a national

Eyesight Changes

stroke award from the American Heart Association and

Arm Weakness

Target: Stroke Honor Roll Elite Plus Gold Plus Quality

Time to call 9-1-1

to providing stroke treatment according to nationally

Hamilton Medical Center: Advanced Primary Stroke Center

scientific evidence.

Facial Drooping

American Stroke Association. The Get with The Guidelines®

Speech Difficulties

Achievement Award recognizes Hamilton’s commitment

Hamilton Medical Center is an Advanced Primary Stroke Center. Not all area hospitals have this distinction.

In addition, Hamilton has earned the Gold Seal of Approval from the Joint Commission for healthcare quality.

When experiencing the symptoms of a stroke, every second counts. So does getting the right level of care as quickly as possible. Hamilton Medical Center has a nationally ranked, highly trained Rapid Stroke Team on staff, ready to care for you 24/7.

An ischemic stroke can occur when a blood vessel that feeds oxygen and blood to the brain is blocked by a clot.

According to the American Stroke Association, 87% of strokes are ischemic.

A stroke can also occur when a blood vessel ruptures, spilling blood into the surrounding brain.

This is called a hemorrhagic stroke. About 13% of all strokes are hemorrhagic.

A stroke starves the brain of the nutrients it needs. If a stroke interrupts blood flow to a particular part of the brain that controls a body function, that part of the body won’t work normally. That’s why stroke is a leading cause of disability in the U.S. Quick medical treatment is crucial to minimize the long-term effects of stroke and to reduce the risk of death.

28 // May 2020

recognized, research-based guidelines based on the latest “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, Hamilton Medical Center’s stroke program coordinator.

According to the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association, stroke is the No. 5 cause of death and a leading cause of adult disability in the U.S. On average, someone in the U.S. suffers a stroke every 40 seconds, and nearly 795,000 people suffer a new or recurrent stroke each year.

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Gò0dNews for Couples

An Unselfish Love

H

by Theodore Young Jr.

usbands, love your wives, just as Christ loves the

the home of my parents and married. Outside of the “Holy

Church (Ephesians 5:25). It seems when I think

Trinity,” there is no one who is more important in my life.

this verse is exhausted, the Holy Spirit brings me

This is the woman God gave to me as a “divine

back here again for more. In the Amplified Bible, there is

helper.” This is the woman God specifically chose for me

a section in the verse that reads, “Seek the highest good

to make me one. God brought us into this holy covenant

for her and surround her with a caring unselfish love.”

to complete both of our destinies. He wanted to take two

The question is, do we love our wives as Christ loves the

imperfect beings with baggage and put them together

church, in an unselfish way? Are we putting our wives’

to glorify Him. He has destined us to be a blessing to the multitudes. But on days when I am not sensitive to the Holy Spirit, I take my partner for granted. Worse yet, I overlook the gift God has blessed me with.

When we are walking with God, we have a divine opportunity not to be selfish. His Word cleanses us from all unrighteousness. As husbands, we desire to share His love, mercy, and grace with others. Our wives are walking with us. They are in the perfect position to receive from our blessings. Our reasonable response to God is to serve with gladness. Who better than our wives for us to practice with?

I believe when we yield toward serving our wives, we please our God, especially when we are not feeling it in the moment. As Christ said, “Not my will, but your will be done.” Our time

needs before our own? When we have plans and our wives

on earth is short. God desires us to spend more time loving

ask us to do something that is inconvenient, do we do it

and growing with each other.

with gladness, or do we fuss?

I will be the first to admit there have been some strong

Wives, your husbands need your encouragement, your touch, and your support. I ask that when you see us

victories in Christ in my marriage. However, there have

struggling, pray to the Father to give us insight. Believe

been some complete failures where I did not see things

God for your husbands to see His kingdom. When we fall

from her perspective. There have been moments when

short, call us out in love. However, don’t condemn us,

I was not willing to sacrifice my agenda. I will not even

but give us the same loving mercy that our God shares so

talk about the times that I half listened and was busy

generously with His children.

doing something else. I did not always give my wife the practice Philippians 2:3. This is the woman for whom I left

30 // May 2020

About The Author

full attention she deserves. I am confessing that I did not Theodore Young was born and lived in Bronx, NY, for 42 years. Married 21 years and father of two teenage daughters. He Accepted Christ in his life over 32 years ago. and works as a licensed social worker in the state of TN.

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Gò0dNews for your Taste Buds

Fish Florentine

by Mary Anderson Beard

I

love cooking! There is just something about taking random ingredients, putting them together, and ending

Instructions

up with a delicious creation that my friends and family

can enjoy! Lately, I have been really focusing on healthy eating habits and incorporating that into family meals that are both healthy and delicious! This recipe for fish florentine is one of my favorite recipes. I would love for you to try it and it become a favorite of yours too!

Ingredients • 4 - 5oz. thick pieces of skinless white firm fish fillet (I use grouper) • 1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil • 1 Tbsp butter • 1 cup red bell pepper, chopped • 2 cloves garlic, minced • 9 oz. fresh baby spinach • 2 oz. reduced fat cream cheese • ¼ cup half-and-half cream • 3 Tbsp grated parmesan cheese

• In a large skillet, over medium heat, add ½ Tbsp olive oil and ½ Tbsp butter, red bell pepper, and garlic and cook for 4 minutes.

• Add spinach, season with salt and pepper; cook until the spinach wilts down.

• Add cream cheese, half-and-half, and parmesan cheese; mix well until cream cheese is melted and resembles creamed spinach.

• Heat a separate skillet on medium high heat; add remaining oil and butter.

• Season fish on both sides with salt and pepper and place on the hot pan.

• Cook 6 minutes on first side, flip fish over, and cook on the other side an additional 5 minutes until cooked thru and browned.

• Divide the spinach mixture on the bottom of each plate and top with a piece of fish.

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Nutrition Information

About The Author

Serving: 1 fish fillet with about ½ cup spinach.

Calories: 351, Carbohydrates: 6 g, Protein: 43 g, Fat: 16.5 g, Saturated Fat: 6.5 g, Cholesterol: 78 mg, Sodium: 300 mg, Fiber: 2 g, Sugar: 2 g

32 // May 2020

Mary Anderson Beard lives in Coosa with her husband, Brian. They have three beautiful, grown children and soon will have three amazing grandchildren! She enjoys being active in their church, Wilkerson Road Baptist Church, as well as her grandson’s school, Unity Christian School. She loves baking, blogs, WW, and spending time with her family and friends!

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

The Deal with Sheep y son attended a Christian college an hour from home. He usually popped in midweek, often with a friend in tow.

“Hey, Mama. Keep my buddy company while I grab a shower.”

While I poured my dark-haired guest a glass of sweet tea, he studied a curio cabinet filled with sheep figurines.

“What’s the deal with sheep?”

I sat on the sofa. “A few years ago, I led a ladies Bible class through Psalm 23.

When the series ended, they presented me with a pink mug with dancing sheep on it. Word got around that I love sheep. Every time I opened a birthday or Christmas gift, I had another figurine for my collection.”

“All because of one chapter, Psalm 23?”

“Actually, sheep are a big deal throughout the Bible. Did you know shepherds were the first to hear the news of Jesus’ birth? And after the resurrection, when He was about to leave this planet, Jesus told the Apostle Peter, ‘Feed My sheep’ (John 21). Believers are His sheep” (John 10), The boy pulled a lever on the side of the recliner and crossed his elevated legs. “Where else?”

“In the Old Testament an unblemished lamb was slaughtered at Passover to atone for sins (Exodus 12:5, I Peter 1:18-19). Those sacrifices foreshadowed Jesus, the Lamb of God who would take away the sin of the world” (John 1:29).

The boy twirled his finger in a keep-going motion.

“Sheep have poor eyesight and require more care than other types of livestock. Because they’re stubborn, make bad choices, and can’t defend themselves, they need a shepherd to guide them. Jesus knows how to shepherd us because He lived among us for 33 years. He understands our challenges, weaknesses, and temptations. Whatever we face, He’s been there. He was misunderstood, beaten, and rejected. Just as

34 // May 2020

a shepherd can free a lamb from a thorn bush, Jesus can rescue humans from thorny situations. That’s why David said with confidence, ‘The LORD is my Shepherd, I shall not want’” (Psalm 23:1).

“Did David know about sheep?”

“David tended his father’s flock. Once, when a bear took a lamb, he grabbed the beast by its beard and killed it (I Samuel 17:32-37). In Psalm 42, David asked himself,

‘Why art thou cast down, O my soul?’ (vs 5). Cast down is a shepherd’s term for a sheep that’s rolled onto its back and can’t get up. Remember the parable about a shepherd leaving 99 sheep to search for one that’s gone astray? He fears it may be cast down and easy prey.”

The young man frowned. “I grew up in church, but no one ever told me I was a sheep. I’ve already gotten tangled up in a thorn bush or two.”

Those dreaded thorn bushes appear in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, but none catch the Good Shepherd off-guard. Let’s follow where He leads.

“I am the good shepherd; the good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep” (John 10:11).

About The Author

M

by Arlene Ledbetter

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

Troublesome Waves

I

by Shane Franks

n times of difficulty it’s very apparent how easily

chosen these men for a task and He saw great value

one can quickly forget core truths of faith and

and potential in all of them ( yes even Judas). But the

default to fear and quick thoughtless reactions that

devil would love to destroy all potential endeavors

are based more on primal instinct of self preservation.

for the kingdom and the men in this tiny boat felt

I’m reminded of a hand full of disciples (in

that real as ever. Snoring from the back of the boat

probably a group of ten or less) In a boat on the Sea

was a very unworried Jesus! Apparently Christ was

of Galilee. They we’re distraught and in fear for

a sound sleeper! The men finally after all else had

their lives. This storm should have not been a great

failed began to cry out to their Lord who responded with, “where is your faith?” Our faith?? Our Faith fell overboard 30 knots back towards Capernaum half an hour ago! But Christ arose as the rain beat across his face and made his way to the front of the boat.

Unconcerned with the boats unbalanced nature calmly yet sternly spoke into the air the same very breath that spoke the world into

surprise to them since the Sea of Galilee is and was

existence and simply said...“Peace be still!”... and there

well known for quickly changing weather from

was peace!

sudden peace to sudden turmoil and destruction.

Dear brother and sister do not be over encumbered

After all, a good number of these men were

by fear but live by faith because his breath lives inside

experienced sailers and fishermen.

you. Simply take your place at the end of the boat and

But as often as it seems to occur these experienced men got caught in the moment and the memories

speak to your storm! Cast your cares upon Him for he careth for you! Peace be with you!

memories were not enough to fuel their faith in time of adversity. The devil knew well that Christ had

36 // May 2020

About The Author

of all the miracles were quickly forgotten and those Shane Franks attends worship at Faith Builders International where he helps with music and youth. He is married to his wife, Samantha and he is also an avid outdoorsman.

Gò0dNews for Everyone How Should Christians Respond to the Cornonavirus?

C

by Reagan Marsh

hristians walk today in a situation without precedent

displeasure. Jesus took those for us. We’re no longer God’s

in our lifetimes. Yet we do not walk in the dark. God’s

enemies. Jesus brought us into his family, and we now have a

Word provides counsel, perspective, and wisdom as to

Father who loves us better than we could hope. We have peace

how believers ought to respond to the Coronavirus.

1. In faith. Our God is a great King – King of kings, and

Lord of lords. Scripture says he is in the heavens (Ps 115:3),

that transcends all understanding in the Saviour who’s better than we could ever imagine.

6. In wisdom. We will follow sound counsel because the

and his is no impersonal sovereignty – he knows my name and

Lord calls us to honor the leaders he sets over us insofar as

orders my steps. He demonstrated his love, such that his only-

they don’t dishonor him. We’ll also do it because he commands

begotten Son died for sinners – died for me! His Spirit dwells

us to love our neighbors. So we’ll wash our hands and stay

within me, so I have great assurance that he’ll never forsake or

home for a while. We won’t do foolish things that break the 6th

forget me. I am to believe.

Commandment (it forbids “the taking away of…the life of our

2. In hope. Because of who God is, he is not only near to

neighbor unjustly, or whatsoever tendeth thereunto”). Wisdom

his people – he hears us when we

isn’t fear. It’s faith, applied with

call to him. He hears my prayers and

careful consideration of the whole

groans. He knows my needs. He’s

counsel of God. 7. In generosity. We have no

sympathetic toward my fears, dealing with me in tender mercies and

clue how long this situation will last,

steadfast love. He cannot change, and

or how bad it may get – but we have

thus cannot deal with me in any other

no uncertainty what Scripture calls

way. Such hope never disappoints us.

us to do. “As we have opportunity,

3. In love. In his kind

let us do good to all men, especially

providence, God is giving us

those of the household of faith” (Gal

more time than usual to attend to

6:10). So we will extend ourselves to

communion with himself through

others in his name, as God has done

prayer and his word. Now is a

for us in Jesus, seeking opportunities

wonderful opportunity to cultivate

to speak of his grace, and trusting

greater love to him. Don’t waste your

that our God will supply all our

quarantine. In his wise providence,

needs according to his riches in glory

this is also a time when many around us are fearful. We have a fantastic opportunity to show and speak of the love of God in

in Christ as we seek to honor him before men.

Faith, hope, love, truth, peace, wisdom, generosity. These

Christ’s life, death, and resurrection. Love to God and man is to

are all matters which, for the Christian, ultimately orbit around

define all that we do.

the Cross. Our Saviour knows our sorrows and struggles. He

4. In truth. Fear is rooted in a false vision of who God

was the man of sorrows, after all. He promises his nearness to

is. Christians, of all people, love “the truth as it is in Jesus” –

the brokenhearted and his mercy to the downcast, while calling

what his Word says about him. We love to see more of God’s

the anxious to find rest and peace in him. He knows where

character and ways in the Scriptures. Why do you think he’s

we are in our weakness, and is yet a merciful and faithful high

given you the grace to grow in what you know of him at this

priest for us in his strength. The Cross pledges his love to us.

season? It’s for your living comfort and faithful witness of his redeeming mercy in Jesus: the only way, truth, and life.

So Christian: draw near, and find rest for your soul in Christ’s faithful, mighty care.

Jesus took that for us. We’re no longer under God’s wrath and

38 // May 2020

About The Author

5. In peace. Panic, fear, unrest, and terror mark many today. But Christians are a people who are no longer dead.

Reagan Marsh is husband to Kara, daddy to RG & AG, and founding Pastor-Teacher to Reformation Baptist Church. An SBTS graduate, biblical counselor, and Th.D student in Puritan Studies, he has served in gospel ministry since 1998.

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Gò0dNews for Mothers

A Mother’s Call To Arms od bless the children, and God bless the mothers who raise them! There is no mold for a mother. They come with varying packaging and functionality. Some are ranked high as a humanitarian, a sergeant, a cultivator, and a pushover, for example, but all are given the gift of bringing forth life.

For some, motherhood comes easy, but for others, it is a constant test and trial. Mothers are constantly evolving and facing challenges. There’s an old saying that mothers wear many different hats depending on the current need of the child or family. They are versatile, super flexible, and sometimes ventriloquists.

They have some of the funniest sayings, like, “I’m cold; go put your coat on.” What are some of the funny things your mother said or did that bring a smile to your face?

Mothers definitely help create colorful memories of childhood. Those childhood pictures with the embarrassing stories.

The Easter outfits! The haircuts! Ah, but you have to love the joy that the stories bring and the laughter that ensues with each shared tale: the bond that is kindled each time you reminisce. And when you spend time together, you begin to see things you hadn’t noticed before, like the laugh lines on her face, or the reassurance that you’ve been missed and that you are always loved. For her, the memory of the first time your tiny hand wrapped around her finger was the moment she felt her heart beating in her own chest. She pledged her life to this small being: you, a tiny baby, her world.

Psalm 139:13: “You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body and knit me together in my mother’s womb.”

God’s Word says that He knew you before you were created. He had already given you a soul and a purpose and called you His own. You have a mother who chose to give you life and a God who chose to create you! You have a purpose, and your mother is your biggest fan!

40 // May 2020

Mothers have an insane way of knowing you and when you’re up to something. Haven’t you ever wondered how they knew? I mean, they do have eyes in the backs of their heads, right?

Even so, mothers are having to get more creative nowadays, just to catch a minute of family time. What with social media and all the electronic devices, it’s almost requiring battle strategies!

Ephesians 6:10-18 tells us to put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. This is a call to arms for all mothers. Don’t stand idle, allowing things of this world to falsely lead our children astray. We have the ultimate power in Christ Jesus, who can do all things. What a blessing: a mother who trains her child to worship and follow Jesus Christ! That’s every mother’s prayer: that her child walks in the ways of Christ and knows love as Christ loved the Church. Even in His final hour on the cross, He had concern for His mother. A mother has a special calling, and she is a blessing beyond measure! Celebrate your mother. Happy Mother’s Day!

About The Author

G

by Kaye Stein

Kaye Stein, native of Chatsworth, residing in Rome is a nurse of 40 years, a mom, and a Nana. A published author who enjoys reading and learning, but mostly family and laughter!

Gò0dNews

Christian Magazine

Mission Statement:

W

Writer Guidelines:

e believe when people are equipped,

Who: Our writers range from pastors, professors, and

motivated, and passionately engaged in

professional writers to stay at home moms and dads,

living out their faith in Jesus Christ they

business professionals, and others who have a desire to

have the potential to be world changers.

Our mission is to bring people into a dynamic

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

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

goodnewscm.com Phone: 423.478.6484

reach out to people through words of encouragement.

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

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

Gò0dNews for Everyone

Shoes Worn Well

by Virginia Piper

T

hese shoes have been worn well. They wrap around a pair of feet that have danced until steps could no longer be taken due to exhaustion. They've walked halls of schools and run to unknown places going exploring. They've jumped to the beat of music or to sink the ball in the basket for an impressive three pointer. These shoes are on feet that doctors predicted would be clumsy

others who struggle with mobility. Or that they would carry this young man to pulpits to pray.

These feet have carried the gospel to those who feel unworthy or too far gone to be loved.

Isaiah 52:7 tells us, “How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him who brings good news, Who proclaims peace, Who brings glad tidings of good things, Who proclaims salvation, Who says to Zion, ‘Your God reigns’” (KJV).

Perhaps the feet who bring good news are not as you imagined. It is sad to miss the treasure inside because we ignore the package it comes in. The outside may appear disheveled or unkempt wearing mismatched clothing.

The words we hear may be garbled or shared with a stutter. Perhaps we don’t give merit to the message because it is comprised of short, hesitantly spoken words or even communicated with gestures. Does the message hold less value because of the way in which it is delivered?

Jesus taught and lived inclusion. and slow. Feet belonging to a young man with Accessibility is organic to the gospel message.

Down syndrome for whom doctors, and some To overlook or intentionally exclude those teachers had low expectations. Indeed, these with disabilities from the church undermines feet were slower to learn to walk but they foundational gospel truths. I Corinthians 12:12 walked right on time for the race that this young states "There is one body, but it has many parts. man is running.

But all its many parts make up one body. It is What doctors failed to share about these the same with Christ” (KJV). feet was that they would walk to the alter Demonstrating the profound beauty of the in response to another’s pain and need for gospel can sometimes be seen from those we compassion and forgiveness. Or that they would least expect wearing shoes that have been worn walk across rooms to intentionally acknowledge well as God’s instruments carrying the joy and hope of Jesus.

42 // May 2020

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