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About Us WRITERS
Amy Oyler Andrew Lee Bekah Prytherch Brenda Dedmon David Thompson Eddie Turner Filip Brunner Heather Medley Heather Tate Jennifer Cobb Jessica Mathis Karen Jeffery Kristen West Monica Gambrell Dr. Rob Debelak Stephanie Shrum Tammy Madden Wayne E. Norton
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Hello Friends, We want to take a moment to tell you who we are and what we are about. Our names are Matt and Bethany Ruckman and we have six beautiful children, Brendon, Kailey, Andrew, Leah Jean, Emma, and Cooper. We live in Cleveland, Tennessee, and love what this town has to offer! We have started GoodNews Christian Magazine because we feel that when God, family, and community are combined, lives will be changed. GoodNews Christian Magazine is a complimentary, Christian lifestyle publication. You can find us 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. GoodNews Christian Magazine is written by men and women in the community who love and serve the Lord. Our hearts are open and willing to be used by God to reach out to the community to spread the GoodNews!
goodnewscm.com issuu.com/catoosaga Disclaimer All of the content in the GoodNews Christian Magazine is for general information and/or use. 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 1
GoodNews from the Pastor’s Desk
6 Well, Well!
by Dr. Rob Debelak
GoodNews for Teens
8 About God, Not About Me by Filip Brunner
GoodNews on Money Matters
10 If You Build the Process, the Goal will Come
by Andrew Lee GoodNews for Men
12 To Christian Boys And Men by Wayne E. Norton
GoodNews for Women
14 Strength of A Woman by Jessica Mathis
GoodNews on Everyone
18 Modern-Day Miracles by Tammy Madden
GoodNews for Life
20 Tammy Madden by Heather Tate
GoodNews Cover Story
22 Farm To Fork: Fresh, Local, Good Food
by David Thompson GoodNews for Everyone
24 Politics In Public by Eddie Turner
GoodNews on Motherhood
26 Three Things My Kids Taught Me
by Stephanie Shrum GoodNews for Everyone
28 On The Edge
by Monica Gambrell
GoodNews for Grandparents
30 Some Benefits of A Grandparent
by Kristen West
12
GoodNews for Everyone
32 The New Normal by Amy Oyler
GoodNews for your Taste Buds
34 Chicken Bake
by Bekah Prytherch
GoodNews for Everyone
36 Rupture And Repair by Heather Medley
GoodNews for Parents
38 A Mother’s Faith
by Brenda Dedmon
22
GoodNews for Everyone
40 Safety In A Burrow by Jennifer Cobb
GoodNews for Everyone
42 Under His Wings by Karen Jeffery
42
Gò0dNews from the Pastor’s Desk
Well, Well!
R
by Dr. Rob Debelak
eference abounds to Jacob’s twelve sons; in lesser limelight
the request itself a precursor to addressing weightier matters of
is his one daughter—Dinah. This Old Testament girl’s story
spirituality (vv. 10-15).
is brief and troubling but significant in forming a backdrop
Each woman lived in times fraught with devotional rivalry.
for Jesus’ redemptive conversation with a New Testament
In Dinah’s world, competing worship practices framed the day:
Samaritan woman.
Jacob’s altar for God contrasted Canaanite paganism (Genesis 33:20),
Following a family reunion (Genesis 33:1-17), Jacob settles near the
and later, religious differences from the Divided Kingdom period
Canaanite town of Shechem (Genesis 33:18-20). On the city’s outskirts
pit an unsanctioned Samaritan temple against Jerusalem’s official
(v. 18), he camps near a water source sufficient for his livestock (v. 17;
sanctuary (John 4:20). “Unclean” by heritage and faith, numerous
John 4:12). Time lapses. The adventurous Dinah sets out, intent on visiting local girls her own age (34:1), and calamity strikes. Akin to phrasing in the garden incident (Genesis 3), a prominent young man of the area saw her, took her, and defiled her (34:2). Dinah’s painful ordeal compounds in her father’s lack of immediate comment (34:5); the offending family’s desperate negotiations (34:3-4, 6, 8-12); her siblings’ seething rage (34:7); and the clandestine conniving of city members (34:18-23). Two of Dinah’s brothers retaliate in bloody retribution (34:25-29). Everyone has their ideas for dealing with Dinah’s situation; notable in this charged scene, though, is that only men take action or do the talking— Dinah is essential but without voice. She may have told what happened (v. 5), but readers never hear her. Overshadowed by other
relationships suggest a checkered past (v. 18): like Jacob’s daughter,
conversations, Dinah is practically muted and nearly erased. From
the Samaritan woman is “defiled.”
the city periphery to social stigma, she is unduly marginalized. Genesis 34 thus describes a young woman leaving familiar
Earlier in Canaan, devious men bargained for Dinah with ulterior motives—depersonalized, she is like property bid on—they
safety (home and well) who takes an unchaperoned journey,
negotiate for her, not with her. Genesis 34 ends in the massacre of
meets a man (who treats her horribly), and quietly recedes from
the town’s men. Jesus, however, reasons peaceably and personally
deliberations over her future. Readers are left with unresolved
with a nameless Samaritan woman, requesting only a little water.
concerns, seeking answers to tough questions posed by harsh
Her past is no barrier to her future. Retaining choice and voice, she
events. Centuries pass. Later, John’s Gospel revisits the vicinity
is valued. Her resulting transformation is so significant that she
with remarkable differences! This time, an obscure, socially
testifies her positive experience (4:28-29); the good news spreads,
disenfranchised woman leaves a city, arrives at a well, and meets a
and people go out to the well where Jesus waits (4:30). Modeling
man (who treats her with dignity). He dialogues with her, genuinely
the example of treasuring others, the Master overcomes obstacles to
loving her (and her people) into the Kingdom! This story reversal
genuine faith. Her encounter with Messiah (4:25-26) sees an entire
resolves with salvation and joy!
city spared; grace prevails for women and men alike (4:39-42)!
Jesus walks territory often avoided by pilgrims traveling
I wish Dinah had never suffered; I value her, in no way trivializing what she endured. While difficult questions linger, I
by the patriarchs (Abraham, Genesis 12:6; Jacob, Genesis 33:18).
appreciate that her story intersects with the larger redemptive story,
Jesus reaches Sychar (John 4:5-6, 12; “Shechem” or close by),
helping me sense God’s hope in dealing with tragedy over time. It
stationing Himself near water. An unaccompanied woman arrives
may well be that Jesus made a specific trip to that same region—a
to draw from the well (John 4:7), and Jesus initiates conversation.
place known for pain—to spotlight the unprecedented power of
Her chiding (4:9) exposes tension (Jews vs. Samaritans); where
divine love.
previous challenges may justify suspicion (Nehemiah’s era), Jesus dissolves racial prejudice in a simple entreaty for water (John 4:7-9):
6 // May 2021
About The Author
to and from Jerusalem. His route (John 4:4) reflects paths trod
Dr. Rob Debelak is associate professor of Bible in Lee University’s Online Program. He has taught at Lee University for 25 years, and is a veteran of the U.S. Air Force. He and his family reside in Cleveland, TN.
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Gò0dNews for Teens
About God, Not About Me
W
by Filip Brunner
hat is life about? “But as for me, how good it is to be near God! I have made the Sovereign Lord my
shelter, and I will tell everyone about the wonderful things you do” (Psalm 73:28). Life is not about the fears and uncertainty and unending violence of the present day. Psalm 73:28 echoes the final words of Joshua: “And if it seem evil unto you to serve the Lord, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other
side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” The psalmist understood, just as Joshua did, that life is meaningless outside of the protection, love, and guidance of the Sovereign Lord. God is sovereign in several ways. The fact that God is the creator of the universe is certainly proof enough. But we need not look any further than the Fatherhood of God to understand exercises His sovereignty over us. The truth is that being in the hands of God should offer us the comfort we need to get us through life. 1. It is good to be near God. The psalmist understood the comfort that nearness to God offers. 2. The psalmist made God his shelter. When the storms of life beat against the side of the tempestdriven boat, we can take comfort in knowing that Jesus is asleep in the back of the ship. 3. The psalmist wants everyone to know how good and powerful and trustworthy his God is. Notice that I said HIS GOD: Is God your God? If He is not, would you consider the offer of eternal life He gives? “I will take the cup of salvation, and call upon the name of the Lord” (Psalm 116:13). “For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved” (Romans 10:13). All of these benefits of God are only available to
8 // May 2021
the children who have been adopted into the family of God by the blood of His Son Jesus Christ who offered one sacrifice, once for all. “This world is not my home, I’m just a-passing through, my treasure is laid up somewhere beyond the blue.” So goes the Gospel song. The Bible calls the trouble we suffer in this present world not to be compared to the blessings of heaven. This world is passing away, and just like Abraham, we look for a country made by God. We would be encouraged if we echoed Joshua when he said, “…as for me and my house, we WILL serve the Lord.” Remember that none of these troubles of our world will mean anything once God makes all things new. Be comforted that it is about God and not about you; walk with Jesus today. About The Author
and appreciate the tenderness and fairness in which God
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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If You Build the Process, the Goal will Come 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 1989 movie Field of Dreams, this famous line has
retirement accounts, savings account, and other investment
survived in our popular culture: “If you build it, they
accounts. (5) Wake up at least 15 minutes earlier every
will come.” Often, especially at the start of each new
morning this week in order to read 2-3 pages (or listen
year, we will make a list of goals we hope to achieve in the
to podcasts or audiobooks) to increase your financial
coming year. We all know that the two most common goal
knowledge. (6) Make a list of people in your community
categories for Americans every year are to lose weight/get in
whom you admire for how they handle their finances, and
shape, and to manage our money better in the coming year.
then get to know these people. Take them out for coffee
These goals are our destinations, where we hope to end up.
and pick their brain about how they became financially
But what about the process involved to get us to our goals?
successful, and ask them for advice on how you can do
Our time, energy, and thoughts should be invested in the
the same. (7) Set “alerts” on your cell phone to remind you
process rather than the goal. If you build the process (and
every morning of these crucial steps in your process so you
follow it consistently), the goal will come.
don’t forget and so you don’t become complacent—keep
Try this: once you have made your list of long-term goals (where you want to be and what you want your life
moving forward! Once you have the steps in your process—for our
to look like), make a list of practical, daily and weekly steps
purpose, the process is daily and weekly action on
you can take to move you closer to your end goal. (Notice
improving our personal finances—now it’s time to actualize,
I recommend daily and weekly steps rather than monthly
realize, Midas-size, and energize by doing these steps daily
steps—if you perform these steps day by day and week by
and weekly without fail—drowsy or alert, stressed or
week, then the monthly and yearly goals will take care of
relaxed—no excuses. By following the steps in your process
themselves. It’s inevitable!) For instance, your list of steps
and focusing daily on completing these steps, your goals
might include the following: (1) Make a written budget of
will be met over time, logically and inevitably, as the end
expenses and income for this week. (2) Open all your bills
result of your process. Most people (if they bother to write
(mail) and write down how much you owe this week and
down personal goals at all), put their list of goals on the
when the bills are due. (3) Open your banking statement
mirror or fridge and glance at the list from time to time until
(or check it on your cell phone app) and balance your
the day arrives when they admit they’re making no progress
checkbook so you know accurately how much money you
and throw away the list, vowing to make another list of
have in your checking account right now (then do the same
goals next New Year’s Day. Forget that. Instead, list real-life,
with your savings account). (4) Sign up for auto-drafts from
practical steps and routines to follow every day, and then
your paycheck to be transferred directly into your
follow them. Proverbs 21:5 reminds us, “The plans of the
10 // May 2021
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Gò0dNews for Men
To Christian Boys And Men
T
by Wayne E. Norton
his writing is offered as both an encouragement and as a
guided by similar thinking and application. Having respect for
godly challenge to men, young men, and also boys who
God, her, and yourself works well linearly and circuitously. The
represent the next generation of fathers. Hopefully, they
words sow, reap, and “what goes around, comes around” should
will be inspired to ask themselves some questions and reflect on the significance of the term “real men.” Designed to empower those who want to be or need to be better men for themselves and
come to mind. The following are some questions for the reader to consider in self-examination/application.
for the woman and children in their lives, this tutorial is offered
What makes a good friend?
with admonition as well as instruction.
What are some of your best qualities or characteristics?
As is often the case, self-examination is a good place to start. A good, sincere look at oneself in terms of current condition and
What is one of your worst characteristics that you would like to change? (Ouch!)
goals is beneficial to getting onto and remaining on the correct
Regardless of where one finds himself now related to the
path. “Hey, guys, what and who is important to you?” That is a
questions above or anything presented beforehand, the most
question that men should consider and give some thought. Maybe
important thing is where he (you) goes from here. Decide what
for some, it is money, boats, cars, bikes, or other nice possessions.
kind of a man and father you want to be, and consider some of the
Or it could be friendships, family, or romance.
roles and duties to be embraced. Men of Christendom are looked upon to lead their families to Jesus Christ while also nurturing and mentoring in everyday practical areas. The job description can be summed up as meeting their needs and a total commitment, or as Ephesians 5:25 says, “Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it.” It is an all-in job that actually sets an example to be emulated. The following are some statistics that are not surprising, easily acceptable, and probably predictable. According to a Focus on the Family study, if within a family, the father gets saved, there is a 72% chance the rest of the family will also. The mother gets saved, there is a 16% chance the rest of the family will also. A child gets saved, there is a 6% chance the rest of the family will also. According to Fatherhood.org, children who live in families
Romance? In order for instruction for Christian males to
without a father are: Seven times more likely to become pregnant,
be complete, space has to be given to discuss females and the
four times more likely to live in poverty, and two times more likely
appropriate treatment toward them and their relationships.
to drop out of high school.
Men and boys are to view women and girls as God does:
According to Focusonthefamily.com: 71% of high school
special. Men, young men, boys, take notice that women are to be
dropouts come from homes without fathers. 85% of youth in prison
valued, treasured, respected, and appreciated. They are the jewel
come from homes without fathers. 90% of homeless and runaway
of God’s creation. Man and the beasts came from the dust of the
children come from homes without fathers. 70% of teen suicides
ground, but not the woman, according to Genesis 2. She is not an
are in homes without fathers. Boys from homes with no fathers are
object, but she is a treasure: a jewel. Additional references can be
more likely to be involved in violence.
Good relationships are dependent on respect at the basic level. Of course, other relationships (with mother, sister, friend) are well
12 // May 2021
About The Author
found in Genesis 2:7, 18, 20b-22, and 24.
Wayne Norton is a former collegiate track and field coach with his last 25 years at The University of Georgia 1990-2015. He is also an ordained elder assisting his pastor at his home church in Athens, GA. Him and his wife, Priscilla reside and serve the people of God in Athens, GA, where they have been since 1990.
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Gò0dNews for Women
Strength of A Woman
M
by Jessica Mathis
ale and female: two words that seem
It is time for us as sisters—and brothers—
so simple to define, yet today’s culture
of Christ to get on our knees and pray. Our
has made two little words much more
government is slowly getting every biblical idea
complicated than they were intended to be. From the beginning of time, God chose
women to have a certain role, and in my opinion,
out of the White House. Our government is slowly becoming dangerous to every woman, child, brother, and sister in Christ.
that role is very important and distinguished. How special is it that we, as women, get to experience a tiny life growing inside our bellies? Our bodies are made to nurture and sustain another human being. Does that not amaze you? Women are full of emotions— sometimes our emotions can be over the top—but we are able to sympathize easier with others. We can be comforters to those who are hurting. When we think of a comforter, we think of Ruth in the Bible. Ruth dropped everything to be there for Naomi in her time of need. God used Ruth to be a comforter and true
Let us take all of what God specifically gave to
friend. God created women to be able to relate to
us as women and stand up for our rights. Let us
one another.
use our strength, emotional pull, and experiences
Women know how to put all of their struggles
to try and change our world and what it is
aside and get on with their day. All women,
becoming. Let us show our world what it really
whether a wife, employee, friend, or mother, have
means to be as strong as a woman.
how they feel. 14 // May 2021
About The Author
to power through and handle life, regardless of My name is Jessica Mathis. I am a blessed Christian, wife, stay-at-home mama, and part-time women’s advocate. I am just trying to raise a tiny human, one day at a time.
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Ringgold Church Directory Baptist Boynton Baptist Church 4093 Boynton Drive Ringgold, GA 30736 706-952-1551 Briarwood Baptist Church 26 Ellis Springs Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-965-9177 Burning Bush Baptist Church 2195 Burning Bush Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-866-1989 Calvary Memorial Baptist Church 518 Highway #41 Ringgold, GA 30736 706-891-9340 Catoosa Baptist Tabernacle 4994 Highway 41 Ringgold, GA 30736 706-935-4323 Cherokee Valley Baptist Church 1495 Cherokee Valley Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-935-6220 Christ First Church 1008 N. Beaumont Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-375-1008 Clearview Baptist Church 2183 Dietz Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-866-0164 Ebenezer Baptist Church 77 Hackett Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-965-7970 Faith Baptist Church 308 Boynton Drive Ringgold, GA 30736 423-509-5334 First Baptist Church of Ringgold 7611 Nashville Street Ringgold, GA 30736 706-935-2358 Friendship Primitive Baptist Church 851 Ooltewah Ringgold Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-935-2382 Gospel Way Baptist Church 31 Bowling Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-891-9866 Grace Baptist Church
16 // May 2021
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 Living Faith 7623 Alabama Highway Ringgold, GA 30736 706-937-5673 Crossroads Church 7638 Nashville Street Ringgold, GA 30736 crossroadsringgold.com Faith Builders International 8309 Highway 41 Ringgold, GA 30736 256-338-5031 Grace Memorial Church 118 East Nashville Street Ringgold, GA 30736
706-965-7969 The Gathering 2501 Pine Grove Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-841 0161 Light House Church 1201 Lafayette Road Rossville, GA 30741 706-861-2715 Messianic Ministry To Israel P.O. Box 22654 Chattanooga, TN 37422 New Life Church PO Box 1973 Ringgold, GA 30736
706-866-7799 Venue Church 3969 Cloud Springs Road Ringgold, GA 30736 423-637-7100 Presbyterian Chickamauga Presbyterian 700 7th Street Chickamauga, GA 30707 706-375-3432 Christ Fellowship 1176 North Three Notch Rd. Ringgold, GA 30736 706-937-4115 Morton Memorial
560 Red Belt Rd. Chickamauga, GA 30707 706-338-7176 Seventh-Day Adventist Ringgold Seventh-Day Adventist Church 124 Kittle Street Ringgold, GA 30736 706-935-3741 Battlefield Community Seventh-Day Adventist Church 96 Hillman Lane Ringgold, GA 30736 706-861-5999
Fort Oglethorpe Church Directory Baptist Anchor of Hope Baptist Church 2613 Lakeview Drive Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-8318 Battlefield Baptist Church 178 South Cedar Lane Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-1316 Burning Bush Baptist Church 2195 Burning Bush Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-866-1989 Calvary Memorial Baptist Church 2 E Gate Drive Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-6183 Cloud Springs Baptist Church 207 Cloud Springs Road Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-0164 First Baptist Church Ft. Oglethorpe 2645 LaFayette Road Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-0232 Moriah Baptist Church 2864 Battlefield Parkway Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-8843 Nellie Head Memorial Baptist 2379 Catoosa Parkway Tunnell Hill, GA 30755 706-935-5236 Old Fort Baptist Church 18 Van Cleve Street Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-861-2807
Parkway Baptist Temple 65 Stuart Road Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-0325 Victory Baptist Church 1013 Layfayette Road Rossville, GA 30741 706-866-0371 Catholic Saint Gerard Catholic Church 3049 Lafayette Road Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-861-9410 Church of Christ Fort Oglethorpe Church of Christ 6 Harker Road Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-4124 Community Battlefield Ministries Church 64 3rd Street Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-9090 Episcopal Church of the Nativity 1520 Cross Street Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-9773 Methodist Fairview UMC 2112 McFarland Avenue Rossville, GA 30741 423-653-1043 Fort Oglethorpe UMC 1733 Battlefield Parkway Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-820-6314 Newnan Springs UMC
78 Monanaw Avenue Rossville GA 30741 706-866-6724 Nazarene Battlefield Parkway Church of the Nazarene 3220 Battlefield Parkway Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-9838 Non-Denominational 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 Everyone
Modern-Day Miracles
S
by Tammy Madden
ome people believe that there are no miracles in
of the night as they cry, or drying little tears with your
today’s world. Some say Jesus only performed
kisses. We have some friends that this happened to many
miracles back when He walked the earth. Well, I beg
times over. In 2005, this beautiful couple came together in
to differ. I am 54 years old, and I have seen miracle after
marriage and was blessed with a beautiful baby boy in 2006,
miracle in my lifetime. I have watched as life’s flight left
Sam. Sam was the light of their lives, but he was born with
the ground with my precious baby girl at 11 months old,
a heart defect. After many surgeries, Sam became too ill to
knowing she was fighting for every breath. They had given
survive without a heart transplant. The heart never came,
her two hours to live: BUT GOD! He stepped in and gave
and God called him home. Before God called him home, He
her a new heart. Before she got that heart, she sustained a
had blessed John and Tanja with another baby: a beautiful little girl, Emma Grace. Tanja asked God to please not let her home be quiet. She wanted to hear the laughter of children again in her home. This is where our God brought the miracle in!! This beautiful family decided to become foster parents. They became a miracle to more children than I can count: children that needed hugs and kisses and love in the middle of the night, children that otherwise would not have had anyone to hold them when they cried. They soon found out that the miracle God had for them was out of all of these babies, four of them found their forever home with this beautiful family. I can only imagine the smiles that Sam has in Heaven looking down on all his
severe brain injury and was supposed to be a vegetable for
brothers and sisters that he will one day run to in Heaven.
the rest of her life. That “vegetable” is now a senior in high
Miracles are all around us. They come in the form of
school. But let’s talk about just one miracle that happened to
just looking at the stars on a beautiful summer night. They
her during that six months in the hospital.
come in watching a newborn baby enter the world. They
The day my daughter got her heart, they had to do a
come in the form of a child’s little arms around your neck.
procedure on her old heart, not knowing yet that a heart
They come in the form of a child’s laughter as they stand in
would become available that very night. She began to bleed
the snow, catching snowflakes on their tongue. But they also
out. As fast as they were pumping blood in, it was coming
come in the form of watching a person with stage 4 cancer
right back out of the chest tubes. I remembered a verse in
suddenly be healed or a heart defect suddenly be gone. God
the Bible that my father had told me about growing up. That
is still on the throne. His miracles are still many and mighty.
verse is Ezekiel 16:6. We all began to read that verse and pray
So look around you today as you walk around town or as
for God to stop the blood. Within minutes, the doctor came
you are driving through the city. I promise you will see a
out to tell us that the blood had stopped instantly and they
miracle every day.
Sometimes God performs miracles that come in the form of the pitter-patter of little feet, holding a baby in the middle
18 // May 2021
About The Author
could not understand how. Oh, we knew exactly how: GOD!
My name is Tammy Madden. I live in the beautiful foothills of North Georgia in Chatsworth. I am married for 35 wonderful years to my amazing husband, Gene and we have a beautiful teenage daughter named Megan.
Church Activities & Events RidgeCrest Baptist Church Brian Free & Assurance
Sunday, May 2 | 10:30AM 623 W Garden Farm Road, Rossville, GA
Harmony Baptist Church
2021 Virtue Ladies Conference
Friday, May 7 – Saturday, May 8 3910 Youngstown Road #1237, Chattanooga, TN
Thankful Missionary Baptist Church Sunday Morning Worship
Sunday, May 23 | 10:45AM – 12:45PM 980 N Orchard Knob Avenue, Chattanooga, TN
Celebration Church Chattanooga Living The Stories Tour
Sunday, May 30 | 10AM 6425 Lee Highway, Chattanooga, TN
Gò0dNews for Life
Afraid To Try
A
by Heather Tate
fraid to try…afraid to fail…afraid to succeed!
When I try to move forward, I often feel fear and
Do thoughts such as these keep you from
doubt. We need to remember fear and doubt are not given
stepping faithfully into the purpose or calling
by God. Fear and doubt are from the enemy. I make them a
God has placed on your life? Yes, these thoughts hinder my progress in God’s purpose! Maybe you feel the same.
me problem; then they become a heart problem. In what areas of your life where you feel the call of
I’ve taken some time to consider self-sabotage. I’m not
God on your heart do you find doubt keeping you from
speaking of conscious self-sabotage; no, it’s more the kind
moving forward? Look at those areas, and compare the
of self-sabotage the enemy tends to whisper in my ear to
calling and purpose you believe you are meant to do with
cause doubt and fear: fear that keeps me from moving forward in what I am supposed to do to fulfill my God-given purpose. I considered areas of my life where I might avoid progress toward my God-given purpose. I am afraid to try because I am afraid not only of failure but that I won’t succeed: more importantly, that I can’t keep up with success! Yep, I’m afraid of success! Let’s look at a verse about fulfilling our Godgiven purpose. The Christian Standard Bible (2017) says in Psalm 57:1-3, “Be gracious to me, God, be gracious to me, for I take refuge in you. I will seek refuge in the shadow of your wings until danger passes. I call to God Most High, to God who fulfills his
God’s Word. Then meditate on 1 Peter 1:13: “Therefore,
purpose for me. He reaches down from heaven and saves
with your minds ready for action, be sober-minded and set
me, challenging the one who tramples me. God sends his
your hope completely on the grace to be brought to you at
faithful love and truth.”
the revelation of Jesus Christ.”
Verse two says, “…God who fulfills his purpose for
Finally, rest in Colossians 3:23-24 as you do your work
me.” Knowing God fulfills His purpose for us, we can
for the Lord: “Whatever you do, do it from the heart, as
boldly move forward because His Word combined with
something done for the Lord and not for people, knowing
our faith gives us the power to fight a battle against the
that you will receive the reward of an inheritance from the
enemy. James 1:5-6 says, “Now if any of you lacks wisdom,
Lord. You serve the Lord Christ.”
he should ask God—who gives to all generously and
I hope these words are both encouraging to you and
ungrudgingly—and it will be given to him. But let him
action-inspiring! May you be blessed as you venture boldly
ask in faith without doubting. For the doubter is like the
into the purpose God has for you.
surging sea, driven and tossed by the wind.” The key is to ask “without doubting.” Our doubts do we, as believers, demolish our own progress with our doubt? We fail to take a step forward in faith.
20 // May 2021
About The Author
cause turbulence in our lives like a stormy sea. How often
Heather Tate is the founder and president of Intricate Umbrella Inc, a Public Relations and Communications company. Heather’s desire is to help anyone fulfill their true purpose in life through education and personal development. To find out more about Intricate Umbrella Inc and services offered, visit IntricateUmbrella.com or email Heather@IntricateUmbrella.com.
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I
Farm To Fork: Fresh, Local, Good Food by David Thompson
f you’ve never eaten at Farm to Fork before, you’re
steak, seafood, and much more. And that’s without even
missing out!
mentioning their breakfast options!
Farm to Fork started as a tiny restaurant in the
Christy Hill, Farm to Fork’s general manager, said their
Ringgold Remco shopping plaza using fresh, local, never-
most popular menu options are the fried green tomatoes,
frozen ingredients and serving delicious meals everyone
grilled hamburger steak, smothered chicken, and any of
can enjoy. As word began to spread, their customer base
their varieties of pizza. But ultimately, anything you get
expanded like wildfire, and Farm to Fork was voted
on their menu will satisfy you. They will be updating their
Northwest Georgia’s “Best of the Best” seven years in a
menu soon, so make sure you keep an eye out for any new
row! Three years ago, they moved to their current location
changes. You can also view the full menu online at their
at 120 General Lee Drive in Ringgold in order to serve more
website, farmtoforkga.com.
people. In the last three years, their seating has tripled as
Another big change at Farm to Fork is the addition of
more and more first-time guests become loyal customers.
their brand-new coffeehouse and creamery! They wanted to
Farm to Fork focuses on fresh and local ingredients
give the Ringgold community a really good ice cream place,
because they know it’s what their customers want.
fill a need, and cater to their customers, so they opened the
Most of their ingredients come from Melon Patch Farms, a
creamery last May. The flavors rotate every so often, and
Chickamauga-based farm that has provided their produce
there’s always something new to try. They have seasonal
since day one of the restaurant. They offer a wide range
and holiday flavors as well. The creamery also creates
of delicious dishes: salads, sandwiches, burgers, pizzas,
weekly Sunday sundae specials and carries several flavors
22 // May 2021
of cheesecake. Anything you need to satisfy your sweet tooth can be found at the new Farm to Fork creamery! The coffeehouse has an Espresso machine, and they serve iced coffee, lattes, caramel macchiato, and other kinds as well. The new addition has quickly become very popular and they’ve been extremely busy even through the pandemic.
the community and to the busy people who don’t have time
Most of their advertising comes from word of mouth, and
to spend hours in the kitchen crafting a three-course dinner.
patrons have shown up in droves, eager for something
“We give people a home-cooked meal without having to cook
sweet to top off their meal or a boost of caffeine to help get
it themselves,” Christy said.
them through the workday. Fresh ingredients make for a healthier meal. The
Farm to Fork is very thankful for the continued support of all of their customers. They couldn’t have withstood the
atmosphere and people help give Farm to Fork a welcoming
pandemic without everyone’s help, and everyone at the
feel that puts you at ease and ready to enjoy your order,
restaurant is very grateful. They’re ready to show you why
regardless of how you felt when you first came in the door.
they’re one of the best restaurants in Northwest Georgia, so
As Christy put it, “It doesn’t matter what mood I’m in. I can
come on by sometime and enjoy a meal that’s fresh from the
find something to eat!”
farm all the way to your fork!
If you’re in a rush and don’t have time for a full sit-down meal, Farm to Fork has you covered. Now you can enjoy local food you know you’ll love in the comfort of your own home! Farm to Fork now delivers within a 10-mile radius, or you can just stop by the drive-thru and pick up something delicious on your way. Farm to Fork wanted to offer another service to
goodnewscm.com // 23
Gò0dNews for Everyone
Politics In Public
A
by Eddie Turner
ccording to the Book of Proverbs, drinking alcohol
Whenever you’re engaged in a political boxing match,
is described as a very risky activity that Christians
know that God is not in the ring with you, nor is He
are urged not to do in public (or at all) for its
fighting alongside your opponent. There’s no one political
ability to stain our credibility as proclaimers of Christ.
party that God considers good. How do we know this? It’s
Given the hostile nature of politics today, it’s a given that
because God’s definition of “good” is perfection. To Him,
publicly aligning ourselves with political parties can have
a thing cannot be called good if it is even 1% not good.
the same effect. Yet we are often outspoken and even drag
And so, being that you and I are among the things that are
Jesus into our claims that one party is “more right” than
not good, we can be certain that the institutions we create
another. Is this really the right thing to do? Something tells
based on our human ways of thinking are equally flawed.
me it’s not. And that something is the Bible.
So while abortion is clearly wrong according to Scripture,
Shortly before our most recent presidential election, I witnessed a heated argument on Facebook that erupted
being opposed to a political party that embraces it does not give us clearance to cast the first stone.
from a moderately civil discussion about politics between
“There is none righteous, no not one” (Romans 3:10).
two outspoken Christians. The statement that lit the burner
In heaven, we will live and worship alongside people
expressed the writer’s bewilderment over how a person
who voted differently than we did. Instead of being at
could call themselves a Christian and yet support a political
odds with one another, we will behave like fans of a
party that favors the pro-choice position concerning
winning college football team whose common bond of
abortion. Not only did this statement give away the party
victory causes high-fives and hugs to erupt between total
that this person was loyal to, it questioned the salvation of
strangers. As we anxiously await our day of redemption,
others who supported opposing political parties. And, as
may we love one another instead of attacking our fellow
expected, others began to join in the fight. When the smoke
brothers and sisters in Christ for their ideals that are just
had finally cleared, disappointment over the tarnished
as imperfect as our own. While I do believe we should
witness of each person involved was all that was achieved.
embrace the privilege of aligning our convictions with our
Instead of arguing from a biblical standpoint, right and
votes at the polls, we would do well to remain mum about
wrong were attributed to human politics.
the parties we support and, instead, invest our energy in
“But avoid foolish controversies, genealogies, dissensions, and quarrels about the law, for they are unprofitable and worthless” (Titus 3:9).
24 // May 2021
proclaiming the name of Jesus Christ. After all, His is the only party that truly matters.
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Gò0dNews on Motherhood
Three Things My Kids Taught Me
A
by Stephanie Shrum
h, the pitter-patter sound of tiny little feet running
helped her to see things differently. I never hesitated to go to
down the hallway. The prerequisite alarm that
their Heavenly Father from that point on.
alerts you—it’s time to get up—just before the
Prayer. This is the big one. Girls are precious. They
overly happy tiny humans invade your bed as though they
are sweet, whimsical creatures that leave a trail of glitter
were attacking the dawn. No more sleeping in. No more
everywhere they go. However, those precious little wonders
selfishness. Life has new meaning now. It revolves around
come with testing and trials as well. Through these, God
the demands set by another life form, not your own. Is it all
taught me not only the power of prayer but also how to
worth it? God thinks so.
pray. He took me to His Word, where I learned to claim the
Psalm 127:3 tells us that children are a gift from the
promises for my children that only He could foreknow that
Lord: a reward, even! Why would God say this? As I look back over the years of raising two girls, a few good reasons come to mind. Here are three things that my kids taught me, although I could list thousands more. Love. When I had my first daughter, I remember feeling overwhelmed with love for her. It was unbreakable and sacrificial. I often think that this must be a glimpse of what our Heavenly Father feels for us. When I became pregnant with my second daughter, I worried that I might not love her as much as the first. Not only did I love her as much as the first, I somehow
I would need. I found that God is faithful to His Word. We
loved them both even more. Each child is unique, as is a
are called to train our children in the way they should go. I
mother’s love for them. But somehow, it is also equally the
believe a mother’s love creates the tenacity that is required
same. Only God could make that happen.
to hang in there in those tough times, to fight for our little
Faith. The Bible teaches us that God will be a father to the fatherless. There were countless times when He proved
ones until they are old enough and trained to fight the good fight of faith for themselves. The overall lesson that I learned is that my world has
was very upset. I called out to the Lord and reminded Him
been enriched by having them in it. I wouldn’t want it any
that He promised to be their Father. I asked Him to correct
other way!
His daughter. Shortly after, my daughter came to me with an apology. She explained that she heard a sermon that
26 // May 2021
About The Author
this to be true. I recall one of my girls arguing with me. I
Stephanie Shrum is the ASA for PCM/ J103/ComeOnLetsGo ministries. She is a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. She is also the author/creator of the blog runninganegativesplit.com.
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
On The Edge
F
by Monica Gambrell
rom my earliest memories, I have always slept on the
ourselves, yet we persist in inching our toes over the line in
very edge of the bed. It has never mattered which
the sand. We like to see how far we can push the envelope
side as long as I am right on the edge. Maybe it’s
and still walk in the light. Shame on us.
because it was easier to slip my arms and feet out from under the blankets—I don’t know. At any rate, this had
James 4:7: “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.”
never presented itself to be a problem until April of 2008. I
Revelation 3:16: “So then because thou art lukewarm,
was in the middle of a deep sleep when suddenly, I found
and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth.”
myself on the floor. Somewhat angered by the splitting pain
Acts 24:16: “So I strive always to keep my conscience
in my head, I felt to see if anything was broken. I had rarely
clear before God and man.”
experienced pain so severe. Somehow, I had landed headfirst on my floor. Now, I have to be honest here: my mattress is roughly 36” from the floor, and my floors are covered in vinyl, so we’re talking about a really hard fall. My head had a fleshy “ridge” from brow to crown for days, my elbow, hip, and top of my hand were bruised badly, and my left knee was bloodied (never fully recovered from that). It was a little comical, if I do say so myself, to see my husband bolt out of bed in our blackened room to stumble around blindly attempting to turn on the light. And even then, he couldn’t find me immediately! I was not laughing, though. As I recall, it was more of a screeching howl. I remained a good half hour in the restroom trying to regain some measure of decorum before
1 Thessalonians 5:23: “May God himself, the God of
I went back to bed—this time not so close to the edge. A
peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole
couple of minutes later, my husband was awakened again—
spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our
this time because I was laughing uncontrollably. I told him
Lord Jesus Christ.”
that I couldn’t help feeling that if God was trying to take my
As long as we live, we will fight the battle against the
mind off of my continually troublesome shoulder by making
world, the flesh, and the devil. May we strive to be holy
everything else hurt, then I got the message. He didn’t think
as He is holy. Maybe your life (save one or two areas) is
that was the message. Truthfully, I didn’t either. The point
dedicated wholly to the Lord. That’s not enough. That’s
is, we sometimes live too close to the edge. Clear lines are
living on the edge. He gave His all for you; now you must
drawn. It is written in God’s Word how we are to conduct
give your all for Him.
28 // May 2021
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Gò0dNews for Grandparents
Some Benefits of A Grandparent ’m a mother to four (now grown – thanks be to God) children! I remember the countless days of trying to get parenting right. The burden of feeling like I was doing or saying things that were going to “mess up” my kids. The numerous nights I put my head on the pillow unsure of how I was going to continue with this motherhood thing when the sun came up. Parenting is hard. It is not for the faint-hearted or weakstomached. IT. IS. HARD. Having raised my own now, it gave me a whole new level of respect for my parents. The sacrifices they made. The hardships they endured. The schedules they had to juggle. Then, several years ago, I was elevated to the delightful role of Grandma! I had heard from others who entered that elite group before me that this relationship would be like no other. Rumor was that grandparents would do things for their grandchildren that they would never do for their own kids. I didn’t believe it. I secretly questioned those people’s salvation and thought they just needed more of Jesus. But then, it happened to me—my grandson was born and my brain turned to mush and my heart to putty as there was nothing I wouldn’t do for him. (“You want cake for breakfast, darlin’? Absolutely!!” I’d slice it and serve it up as my adult daughter sat there looking on, rolling her eyes at me as she recalled the days of mandated oatmeal.) My grandson is nearly 14 now and I’ve learned a few things over the years about the benefits of being a grandparent: We bring a supporting layer of stability. When you’re in the day to day flurry of raising children, you’re just trying to stay alive—mentally, physically, and financially. Grandparents have navigated that flurry and reached a place of stability and calm. We can provide a space for our grandchildren to just be themselves without “getting on someone’s last nerve.” We bring wisdom, experience, and insight. Obvious, I know, but that age gap between us and our grown children can prove to be so useful for our grandchildren as they grow and navigate life. We’ve spent enough years circling around the sun to know there’s nothing new under it.
30 // May 2021
We provide love and acceptance…no matter what. Life is hard. As grandparents, we’ve lived long enough to know our grandchildren will be disappointed, hurt, and let down in this world. We bring an extra layer of love, an everattentive listening ear, and a great shoulder to cry on when our grandchildren need someone in their corner (having their favorite cookie available is always a plus, too).
We can supply an extra level of faith. Psalm 103:1718 says it so perfectly: “…the Lord’s faithful love is toward those who fear Him, and His righteousness toward the grandchildren of those who keep His covenant…” Paul noted the foundational importance of Timothy’s faith heritage as he said, “I recall your sincere faith that first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice…” (2 Timothy 1:5). As grandparents, we can never underestimate the influence we have on our grandchildren. Regardless of how often we physically get to see them, God has gifted us with a special place in their lives to help ground them (and cover them) in love, faith, and peace. Grandparents are a delightful blend of laughter, caring deeds, wonderful stories, and love. ~Unknown
About The Author
I
by Kristen West
Kristen West works at Rock Bridge Community Church with a heart for staff leadership, development, and care. She is a communicator with a passion to inspire, encourage, and challenge others in their daily walk with Christ. She writes and publishes weekly content on her blog at kristen-west.com.
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
The New Normal
“T
by Amy Oyler
he new normal.” How many times have we
you do the same. There may not be anything particularly
heard this phrase over the past year? Many of
great about a random Tuesday in August. But if we pay
the protocols and safety procedures that we
attention…maybe there could be.
have had to adapt to during the pandemic have become
All of this brings me back to my original thoughts
so commonplace that we have started to call this time our
about normality. With so much upheaval, isolation,
new normal. At the same time…we still want to “get back to
anxiety, and grief in the past year or more, we find
normal.” We want to do things without certain restrictions
ourselves now living for the normal. We are desperate for
and without the fear of spreading a dreaded disease that
the very times we once thought mundane and maybe even
has ravaged our world. We certainly want to participate in
boring! Just for the sake of feeling safe again, we long for
events that have been canceled over the past year as well. Considering this made me think of the liturgical calendar and the periods known as Ordinary Time. In this case, however, “ordinary” does not mean “normal” or “routine”. According to the official website of The United Methodist Church, the denomination to which I belong, it refers to the "ordinal numbers" (first, second, third, etc.) used to name and count the Sundays, like the Third Sunday after Epiphany for instance. There are two periods of Ordinary Time in our liturgical calendar: one is between Epiphany and Ash Wednesday, and the other is
ordinary activities. Even going to the grocery store or a
from Pentecost to Advent. Even though these periods do
restaurant may be a welcome distraction from the isolation
not technically mean “ordinary” or “normal”, they feel
we have been subjected to for the past year. Hugging a
that way. They are the times between the special times. No
friend or family member means more to us now. Attending
holidays, no big celebrations. Just our regular, run-of-the-
church in person is a joy. Anything that makes us feel like
mill times. Filler.
ourselves again is a blessing.
Aren’t we sometimes guilty of living for the special
Jesus taught us to pray, “Give us each day our daily
occasions? I know my favorite time of year is from
bread.” Our day-to-day lives are important, not just filler.
October to December. I eagerly anticipate this time every
While we may always be fans of holidays and special
year. Fall, football games, Thanksgiving, Christmas.
occasions, I pray that we can leave this pandemic with a
Those are the times to look forward to! Do I miss the
new appreciation for the simple joys of a normal day.
take them for granted because I am looking past the inbetween times to the special occasions. Maybe some of
32 // May 2021
About The Author
beauty of the times in between? Maybe I do. Perhaps I Amy Oyler is a member of Rush Chapel United Methodist Church. She is wife to Jason, a dentist, and mother to Tanner, Timothy, and Thomas. A former English teacher, she enjoys working with the youth at Rush Chapel and “floating” where God leads her!
ourney But it can alsoto seem overwhelming, looking down the long road ahead. You may be asking yourself, how sho An easy step is to put a key foundational piece in place with life insurance. By doing that, it helps ensure t ookWhat like? Does Your anyone who may rely on you financially—now or into the future—will be OK. Luxury Retirement Look So start your financial fitness journey with this oneLike? step forward. Let’s start the conversation.
e. And that’s the way it should be.
Call me today to see I can help you have a greater retirement. ou may be asking yourself, howhow should I begin?
ce. By doing that, it helps ensure that Guy Percy OK. Financial Representative
art the conversation.
7371 Nashville St Ringgold, GA 30736 www.countryfinancial.com/guy.percy guy.percy@countryfinancial.com
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What does your journey to financial fitness look like?
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This piece has been reproduced with the permission of Life Happens, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping consumers make smart insurance deci it can also seem overwhelming, looking down the long road ahead. You may be asking yourself, how should I begin?
their families’ financial futures. Life Happens does not endorse any insurance company, product or advisor. © Life Happens 2018. All rights reser easy step is to put a key foundational piece in place with life insurance. By doing that, it helpssafeguard ensure that one who may rely on you financially—now or into the future—will be OK.
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Gò0dNews for your Taste Buds
Chicken Bake
T
by Bekah Prytherch
his is a fast and easy meal my family loves and it’s great to pair with a salad! This a great meal when
Instructions
you don’t have a lot of time to prep beforehand.
1. Chop potatoes into cubes.
Ingredients
2. Cut onion, pepper, and carrots according to preference.
• 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
3. Place vegetables into a greased baking dish.
• 6 red potatoes
• 1 cup of carrots
4. Place chicken breasts on top of vegetables.
• 1 large onion
5. Pour Italian dressing and sprinkle the ranch seasoning over everything.
• 1 packet of ranch seasoning
6. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes or until done, at 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
• 1 green bell pepper
• 1/2 a cup of Italian dressing
34 // May 2021
7. And enjoy!
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
Rupture And Repair
“A
by Heather Medley, LPC
ll this is from God, who through
usually involves three things: the ability to identify
Christ reconciled us to himself and
there has been a rupture, the courage to move
gave us the ministry of reconciliation”
toward one another, and the humility to offer an
(2 Corinthians 5:18). Within the constructs of psychotherapy, there
apology or forgiveness. If a person can identify that there has been a break
is a simple yet profound idea called “rupture and
in connection, invite a conversation to reconcile, and
repair.” The term “rupture” describes when a person
offer either a sincere apology or forgiveness, repair is
experiences a loss of trust or connection with another.
well on its way. Although
The term “repair” describes
this concept is popular in
the work two people need
modern psychology, it
to do to regain trust and
did not begin there.
connection. The dance of
“Rupture and repair” is
rupture and repair is a
the underlying theme
determining factor in the
in all of Scripture.
survival of a relationship.
Beginning in Genesis,
Most of us experience
there was a rupture in
small ruptures off and on
the relationship between
throughout each day. We yell
Adam and Eve and God in
at our child for being too slow
the garden of Eden, and Jesus
putting on their shoes, a friend
completed the work to restore the
doesn’t respond well to a text, or our
connection. Matthew 5:23-24 gives
partner sarcastically says something
instructions to repair a relationship with
about us with passive aggression. All of these are tiny ruptures, but there are big
your friend before offering anything at the altar, and Paul in 2 Corinthians 5:18 says,
ruptures as well. A spouse has an affair, friends
“All this is from God, who through Christ
gossip about you to another friend, or a colleague
reconciled us to himself and gave us the
calls you stupid.
ministry of reconciliation.” I am thankful for
Ruptures are unavoidable and can be harmful
a God who gives us a model of repair and
if left without care, but the ability to repair is the
the hope that repair gives to all relationships.
sign of emotional maturity and the mark of thriving involved in the rupture do to reconcile and restore trust and connection. Repairing a relationship
36 // May 2021
About The Author
relationships. Repair is the work that the two people Heather Medley is a licensed professional counselor, speaker, and published author. She loves neuroscience research papers, bargain shopping, and laughter. She resides in Rome with her delightful kiddos and steady husband.
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 Parents
A Mother’s Faith
M
by Rev. Brenda Dedmon
other’s Day was made an official holiday in
hymns, and my mother would sit at the piano and sing the
1914 when President Woodrow Wilson declared
hymns I played, which led me to be the pianist at church.
it a national holiday. On this day, there are
Paul wrote to Timothy, “What strikes me most is
more phone calls made than any other day of the year. It
how natural and sincere your faith is. I am convinced that
is second to Valentine’s Day in flower sales and one of the
the same faith that dwelt in your grandmother, Lois, and
biggest gifting holidays. Mother’s Day is a wonderful way
your mother, Eunice, abides in you as well” (2 Timothy 1:5).
to honor mothers; however, is it only about the commercialization that we see today? Let us explore some faith ideas of how important a mother is to the family today. Proverbs 22:6 is a verse that describes how mothers will be a great influence on their children: “Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old, they will not turn from it.” This verse reminds me of my mother as her life was an example of God’s love in parenting me. She helped me to understand how to discover what God’s plan was for my life. She encouraged me to be creative, explore, and reach for the highest goals. At the age of 4, I discovered a “pretend friend” named
Paul reminded Timothy how his grandmother and mother’s faith was an important influence in how he lived his faith.
Charlotte. We did everything together, and most days, she
They provided the spiritual foundation he needed to be who
would eat lunch with us. We each had our favorite plates
God designed him to be.
that mother would put on the table. Some of her friends
What will your child remember about you? Are you
thought she should not let me play with a pretend friend.
providing Christian values that will be an example for
She would reply, “I see a lot of creativity with her playing
them to follow? Are you starting your child off on the way
with Charlotte.”
they should go? Will your child remember faith lessons
When I was in first grade, I signed myself up for piano
you demonstrated in your life? Are you helping your child
lessons. I told the teacher at school my mother wanted me
discover that they are “fearfully and wonderfully made”
to take piano. She gave me a list of prices. I gave that to
(Psalm 139:14)? Celebrate your faith this Mother’s Day with
my mother and told her that she wanted me to take piano.
your child.
much of a desire. A few years later, I was beginning to play
38 // May 2021
About The Author
My mother decided to let me explore piano since I had that Rev. Brenda Dedmon is the retired director of the Children’s Learning Center, First Baptist of Dalton and an avid Roll Tide fan.
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
Safety In A Burrow
I
by Jennifer Cobb
have always wanted my kids to have an appreciation
burrow to burrow to just peek inside to see if there was
for nature and how God has created nature to be
anything in there. As a homeschool mom, in my finest
present in our daily lives. For a little over three
homeschool mom moments, we turned this trip into
years, we were a part of a nature enriched homeschool
something educational. Before we went, we discussed
program. It was honestly one of the best decisions I
the animals that may live there in that area, and we read
ever made for us all to get out of our comfort zone.
books about the specific animals. One book discussed
Due to that program, we not only learned more about
how the Gopher tortoise homes were sometimes shared by other animals and could house up to 365 different animals at different times! We were walking on the Gopher Tortoise Trail, and we came upon a burrow where we finally saw a Gopher Tortoise! It also had a snake in the burrow with it! We really did get lucky, because we did not find anymore, just that one that day, and it really was sharing its burrow with another animal. This idea made me think of our lives today. There is so much anger and animosity in the World for just thinking differently or having different values. As we are left fighting amongst ourselves, instead of focusing on the things
learned about the wild edibles you can eat, the seasons
that are holy and righteous, we can learn from animals
in which they grow, and how to turn a nature lesson
that don’t belong together how to find safety in a
into anywhere you visit. We recently went on a family
burrow. Another animal’s home; that is opened up to
camping trip to a local Georgia State Park. At this
help protect those that are not alike. Isn’t that how we
specific State Park, it is known for Indigo snakes and
are supposed to live to show Jesus’ love to others, no
Gopher tortoises. The park recently had a controlled
matter the differences?
burn, which allowed us to further see the actual Gopher tortoise burrows. So my kids had a blast going from
40 // May 2021
About The Author
our environment and how to take care of it, but we
Jennifer Cobb is a stay at home Mom to two beautiful girls and wife to her Godsend. She enjoys coffee and nature walks.
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
Under His Wings
P
by Karen D. Jeffery
salm 91:1: “He that dwelleth in the secret
protected. No harm will come to us, and we
place of the Most High shall abide under
are comforted by His presence. We have the
the shadow of the Almighty.”
assurance from the Father above that He will
There is no better image of love and
give us peace in that secret place.
protection than the image of a baby bird safe under the wing of his mother. Under her wings, he is safe from every harm, from foul weather, and from cold. Under her wings, he is warm, dry, and comforted. This is the image we see in this verse. It is focused on the sense of security found in God. When we dwell in the secret place of God that is the very essence of God, the place
Philippians 4:7: “And the peace of God, which
where we meet intimately with Him, we find
passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts
ourselves in the shadow of the Almighty, often
and minds through Christ Jesus.”
read as the shadow of His wings.
Revelation 21:4: “And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more
courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the
death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall
Lord thy God, he it is that doth go with thee; he
there be any more pain: for the former things are
will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.”
passed away.”
We are in a place of safety and security. When we are in the secret place of God, we are 42 // May 2021
About The Author
Deuteronomy 31:6: “Be strong and of a good
Karen D. Jeffery loves the Heavenly Father, her family, and her church. Keep looking up Jesus is coming soon.
Are you interested in getting more involved in your community? Join a Chamber LEADs Group, the Chamber Ambassadors, or a Chamber Committee! Contact Membership Coordinator Debbie Hughes dhughes@catoosachamberofcommerce.com 706-965-5201 Join us for the Catoosa Golf Classic Tuesday, May 11th Windstone Golf Club
COMPREHENSIVE MEDICAL CARE F O R A D U LT S
INTRODUCING HAMILTON INTERNAL MEDICINE CLINIC Hamilton Internal Medicine Clinic is a new physician practice where resident physicians provide comprehensive medical treatment alongside a board-certified internal medicine physician. Whether you need medical care for a common illness or a complex or chronic medical condition, our team will take the time to listen to you and provide the latest advances in medical treatment.
• Annual exams/Preventative health • Diabetes management • High blood pressure & high cholesterol management • Depression & anxiety management • Arthritis management • Respiratory infections • Minor surgical procedures • On-site lab work
Call 706.226.8990 for an appointment. 1432 Broadrick Drive, Dalton Monday-Friday 8am-5pm
Internal medicine resident physicians are doctors who are receiving specialized training in field of internal medicine.
706.226.8990 HamiltonHealth.com/internal