May 2025

Gò0dNews May 2025

Complimentary

Christian Magazine

®

12

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About Us WRITERS

Dr. Bobby Sneed Chris Yarber Chrissie Joy Jackson Filip Brunner Garrett Nudd Granger Hughes Hayden Lanier Jan Merop Katie Taylor Kirstin Reggel Lori McAfee Mitch Jolly Rodney Jones Stephanie Stewart

SALES

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

Hello Friends, We want to take a moment to tell you who we are and what we are about. Our names are Matt

DESIGN

and Bethany Ruckman and we have six beautiful

Kylie Fowler

Emma, and Cooper. We live in Cleveland, Tennessee,

Caleb Prytherch Email: art.goodnews@gmail.com

PHOTOGRAPHER Paula Knipp 423-310-4207

EDITOR/ARTICLE COORDINATOR Sandra Gilmore Email: articles.goodnews@gmail.com

PUBLISHER

Matthew and Bethany Ruckman Cell: 423-503-1410 E-mail: goodnewstn@gmail.com

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423-790-5378

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children, Brendon, Kailey, Andrew, Leah Jean, 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

goodnewscm.com issuu.com/catoosaga

women in the community who love and serve the Lord.

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Our hearts are open and willing to be used by God to

GoodNews Christian Magazine Catoosa

reach out to the community to spread the GoodNews!

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 5

GoodNews from the Pastor’s Desk

6 You’re Not Going to Finish

by Chris Yarber

GoodNews for Everyone

8 What is Your Testimony?

by Hayden Lanier

GoodNews Money Matters

10 Growing Our Wealth Versus Withdrawing It

by Granger Hughes GoodNews for Everyone

12 Study in Genesis: The Creation of Humans

by Filip Brunner GoodNews for Women

14 Why You Don’t Love

GoodNews for Parents

24 Boundaries

by Mitch Jolly

GoodNews for Kids

26 Frolicking Like a Calf

by Jan Merop

GoodNews for Everyone

28 You Too

by Rodney Jones

GoodNews for Discovering More

30 More Than a Paradigm Shift

by Garrett Nudd

GoodNews for your Taste Buds

32 Classic Juicy Beef Burgers GoodNews Poetry

Your Life

34 The Vine

GoodNews for Relationships

GoodNews for Seniors

by Stephanie Stewart

18 Praying for the One

by Katie Taylor

GoodNews Cover Story

20 Discover Confident Smiles with Soni & Snipes Orthodontics

GoodNews for Everyone

8

by Lori McAfee

36 Sticky Notes for the Brain

by Chrissie Joy Jackson

GoodNews for Health & Fitness

38 Musings on Fitness and

20

Health and Why It’s Important to Me

by Kirstin Reggel

22 The Mind of Christ

by Dr. Bobby Sneed

34

Gò0dNews from the Pastor’s Desk

You’re Not Going to Finish

by Chris Yarber

I

grew up in a house where I had my own bedroom. Some

stopped. I couldn’t pick up a book or write without wanting

siblings had to share a bedroom growing up, I was one of

to go to bed.

the lucky ones. The bedroom door even had my name on

My parents came to visit my wife and me. We spent one

it. Across from my room, my parents had a study, A room

afternoon taking a walk. As it had many times before, the

filled with books, records, and files. As a child, it presented

subject of school came up in our conversation. Each time we

itself like a library, with what seemed to be hundreds of

spoke about school, I felt more defeated. I was reminded of

books covering subjects such as theology, American history,

how I had given up on my dream of striving for excellence

novels, fictitious stories, and science textbooks. That’s the

in education. At one point, my dad said to me, “Son, you’re

library you get when your dad is an avid reader and your

not going to finish, and you’re just going to have to accept

mom works in medicine.

it.” I cried and cried, and cried some more. After soaking up

There was one frame hanging on the wall in the study

my tears, I turned to my dad and said, “I can’t wait to prove

I would look at, read, and re-read while growing up in that

you wrong.” My dad has always known just what to say

house, a stunning Master’s of Education degree my dad

and when to say it. Those words lit a fire in me to finish an

acquired when my brother and I were quite young. My dad

educational path I had been walking down for seven years.

is one of the biggest influences I have. Little did he know,

Maybe you’re reading this and at one time or another,

watching him study and dedicate his time to furthering

you had a dream. Maybe it was a dream to grow yourself

his education was inspiring me to dream. I found myself

in a way that would result in serving God and others

dreaming of perfecting my craft, and with humility, gaining

better. But along the way something happened, something

as much education as I possibly

unexpected, and you’ve given

could. Fast forward 20

up. Nothing you’ve tried

years, I graduated from Lee

has given you the motivation

University with a Bachelor’s

to pick up the pen again. I’m

degree in Pastoral Ministry, followed by a Master of

not going to say you’ll never

Ministry at Andersonville Theological Seminary!

finish (that’s a terrible way to

But, it wasn’t long after completing this

encourage someone). But I will

Master’s, I surprised my parents by enrolling

say this: don’t give up. God gives us dreams for

in a Doctor of Ministry program at the same

a reason. Your dream has a purpose. Don’t give up

seminary. The difference between my Master’s

on it. When you cross the finish line, celebrate

and Doctorate: COVID-19. After working on

with those you love. Praise God for the

this Doctor of Ministry program for a year,

good works He planned for you long ago.

COVID-19 surprised the world. This

Remember who gave you the dream and

changed everything. Suddenly, I was

who will give you the strength to complete it.

working more than ever. I have

You got this. You can do this. Do not give up.

never felt so drained in my life. to study, unlike anything before. For two years I

6 // May 2025

About The Author

This crushed my motivation Chris Yarber is married to his beautiful wife Maigan.

They live in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Chris serves as the Student Minister at Rock Bridge Community Church in Ringgold, Georgia. He finds great joy in pointing the next generation to Jesus. He loves the mountains, cool weather, and spending time with his wife.

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

What is Your Testimony?

by Hayden Lanier

I

love hearing people share their testimonies. It is truly

following after whatever the world said and whatever your

beautiful to hear someone talk about how they came to

fleshly nature prompted you to do, but you have been saved

know Jesus. But unfortunately, I have heard people share

by the grace of God alone. You were born in a fallen state by

a version of their testimony where they made no mention of

nature, but now God continues to show you the riches of His

Jesus or salvation. Your testimony is not the story of good

grace in kindness in Christ.

things God has done for you or how the Lord led you to a particular school or career path. Your testimony is not limited to how God helped you overcome some struggles or trials.

These things are a part of your testimony, and God certainly uses them, but your testimony is primarily the story of how you were dead in sin but have now been made alive in Jesus.

Your testimony’s details are unique because we are all unique. We have different backgrounds and varying life experiences, so share those details. Be discerning about what you say (for example, maybe don’t tell someone you just met about a sin you still struggle with), but be honest. Make it personal and truthful.

If you’ve never shared your testimony, a good way to

You might wonder why this is important or if you need

structure it is to answer these three questions: 1. What was my

to share your testimony. There is power in your testimony

life like before Jesus? 2. How did I come to know Jesus? 3. What is

because there is power in the gospel. There is power in your

my life like now with Jesus?

testimony because your testimony is the truth of how you

This model is something that we see laid out in Scripture,

have been redeemed by the blood of Jesus. There is power

with one well-known example being Ephesians 2:1-10. This

in your testimony because there is power in the God who

passage answers these questions by teaching that before

has changed your life, and you want others to know Him as

Jesus, we were dead in sin, following after the world and

well. Telling others your testimony makes sharing the gospel

after Satan, living in the passions of our flesh, and we were

personal and builds a connection between you and them.

children of wrath by nature (Ephesians 2:1-3). But God has

Your salvation story is one of the greatest tools you have been

made us alive with Christ, saved us by grace — not by works

equipped with as a child of God.

— raised us up and seated us with Him in the Heavenly

May you boldly proclaim how God has “called you out

places (Ephesians 2:4-9). The third question — who we are

of darkness into his marvelous light” (1 Peter 2:9 ESV). Have

now — is also answered in that we are God’s workmanship

you encountered Jesus; has He changed your life? If so, who

(Ephesians 2:10), which means that we are His masterpiece!

can you share your testimony with?

God has good works for us to do that He has already planned for us, “that we should walk in them” (Ephesians 2:10 ESV). testimony apart from the one you are testifying about. Tell others you were dead in sin but are now alive. You were

8 // May 2025

About The Author

Knowing Jesus changes everything. You cannot have a

Hayden Lanier attends Shorter University and works at Cave Spring Baptist Church.

You can find more of his writing on his blog, setyourmindabove.wordpress.com.

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Growing Our Wealth Versus Withdrawing It Money Matters Granger Hughes

Driven by a passion to educate, inform and prepare future retirees, Mr. Hughes works with his father to help provide educational opportunities for clients as well as others in the community.

He feels a responsibility to help inform those who may otherwise not be aware of strategies, changes, and opportunities available to them when it comes to their financial well-being.

H

ow important is the difference between growing our

consideration of how we position our assets throughout both

wealth and withdrawing it?

phases, especially when it comes to risk management, tax

Understanding the distinction between the

contribution and distribution phases of wealth accumulation is essential for effective retirement planning. While accumulating wealth during our working years focuses on growth through consistent contributions, the distribution phase requires a careful strategy to ensure that our savings provide sustainable income throughout retirement.

Contribution Phase: Building Wealth During our working years, the primary goal is to accumulate

strategies, and distribution planning.

Strategies to Mitigate Sequence-of-Returns Risk To safeguard retirement income against unfavorable sequences of returns, consider the following strategies: 1. Diversify Your Portfolio: Maintain a mix of asset classes to buffer against market volatility. Diversification can help mitigate the impact of poor performance in any single investment.

2. Adjust Asset Allocation Over Time: Gradually reduce exposure to high-risk investments as retirement approaches,

wealth. This phase involves regular contributions to retirement

aligning your portfolio with your risk tolerance and income needs.

accounts such as 401(k)s or IRAs, often utilizing strategies like

3. Establish a Sustainable Withdrawal Strategy: Determine

dollar-cost averaging. By investing a fixed amount regularly,

withdrawal rates that balance income needs with the longevity

regardless of market conditions, we purchase more shares when

of your portfolio. Some experts suggest the “4% rule” as a

prices are low and fewer when prices are high, potentially lowering

starting point, but it’s essential to tailor this based on individual

our average cost per share over time. This approach harnesses the

circumstances and market conditions.

power of compound growth, where earnings generate their own

4. Maintain Cash Reserves: Keep a portion of your portfolio

earnings, significantly enhancing the growth of our investments.

in liquid, low-risk assets to cover several years of living expenses.

Distribution Phase: Managing Withdrawals

This approach allows you to avoid selling investments during

Transitioning to retirement shifts the focus from accumulating assets to managing withdrawals. The sequence in which returns

market downturns, preserving the potential for recovery.

5. Regularly Review and Adjust Your Plan: Periodically assess

occur becomes crucial during this phase. Sequence-of-returns

your financial situation, investment performance, and changing

risk refers to the danger that the timing of withdrawals from a

needs. Adjust your strategy as necessary to stay aligned with your

retirement account will harm the investor’s overall rate of return.

retirement goals.

Experiencing poor investment returns early in retirement, when

In conclusion, the transition from the contribution phase to

portfolio balances are higher due to accumulated contributions, can

the distribution phase necessitates a shift in strategy from growth-

significantly impact the sustainability of withdrawals.

focused accumulation to preservation and sustainable withdrawal.

During our working careers it doesn’t matter when the

Understanding the impact of sequence-of-returns risk and

losses occur so long as we don’t touch the money. Our average

implementing strategies to mitigate it are crucial for ensuring that

4.8% return ends up being the same between portfolios A and B.

retirement savings provide reliable income throughout retirement.

However, once in retirement even though we have an identical average return of 4.8%, we have a wide gap between the two

By proactively managing asset allocation, withdrawal strategies, and diversification, retirees can enhance the likelihood

in terms of dollars left after 20 years. The difference between

of financial security and peace of mind in their later years.

the contribution phase and the distribution phase is not merely

Investment advisory products and services made available through Impact Partnership Wealth, LLC (IPW), a Registered Investment Adviser.

a matter of saving versus spending. It requires thoughtful

10 // May 2025

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Gò0dNews for Everyone Study in Genesis: The Creation of Humans

“A

by Filip Brunner

nd God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over

the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth” *(Genesis 1:26 KJV).

Let’s Focus on Verse 26 God speaks. He issues a command as before and nothing happens. So, what is going on?

Man is a special creation different from anything else God has created thus far. The creation of Humankind requires additional steps.

1. Making of the human male was first.

God makes the man out of dust. “And the LORD God formed man of the dust of the ground, and

of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou

breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became

shalt surely die” (Genesis 2:16-17).

a living soul” (Genesis 2:7a).

C. For intimate socioeconomic and emotional union:

God is the potter: “But now, O LORD, thou art our

“And the rib, which the LORD God had taken

father; we are the clay, and thou our potter; and we all are

from man, made he a woman, and brought her

the work of thy hand“ (Isaiah 64:8).

unto the man” (Genesis 2:22).

God gives a clear understanding that He wants our

The creation of the woman is unique in that she is taken

relationship with Him to be a personal and intimate one. As

out of the man. There is a special connection between a man

the Potter, God molds and shapes us into the thing of beauty

and a woman.

He desires us to be. He takes time to remove impurities from

The creation of man and woman completes the creative

the clay. He adds water and pressure to make of us a fitting

work of God. While the creation of the man and the

image and likeness of His dear Son.

woman is different for both of them, the fact remains that

“For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus

humankind bears the image of God who created us. Their

unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we

union as husband and wife is blessed by God with these

should walk in them” (Ephesians 2:10).

words: “And God blessed them, and God said unto them,

2. The man is given responsibility by his creator.

A. For physical labor: “And the LORD God took the

‘Be fruitful, and multiply’” (Genesis 1:28a).

May this prompt you to continue to read and study

man, and put him into the garden of Eden to dress

about Creation. As the new year begins, renew your

it and to keep it” (Genesis 2:15).

commitment to studying the Scriptures.

B. For spiritual initiative: “And the LORD God

*All Scriptures are KJV.

garden thou mayest freely eat: But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat

12 // May 2025

About The Author

commanded the man, saying, Of every tree of the Filip Brunner is married to his wife, Dr. Kim Brunner and together they have six children.

He is a writer, author, and artist.

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Gò0dNews for Women

Why You Don’t Love Your Life

A

by Stephanie Stewart

s women, we are created to live purpose-filled

delight in the Lord, and he will give you your heart’s

lives, but most of us are so busy with the day-to-

desires. Commit everything you do to the Lord. Trust him,

day tasks of survival that we never discover what

and he will help you.”

that purpose is.

Our days are filled with things that have to be done, and

Just as the seasons in nature change, our seasons of life change. Clarity is the first step to creating a different life.

we’re told that we must balance our time so that we take

And if it aligns with God’s will, He’s thrilled to help you.

care of our own health, continue to grow both personally

3. Your “why” isn’t strong enough.

and spiritually while also having enough energy left over to do something fun once in a while. Striving for the perfectly balanced life is exhausting.

So, why aren’t we living that perfectly balanced life – a life we truly love? Let’s consider five things:

When you embark on a new journey, you have to start by asking yourself why you want to go there. If your reason isn’t strong enough, it’ll be easy to just give up.

4. You lack confidence.

If you’re not confident in yourself causing you to settle for a mediocre life rather than stepping out in faith and pursuing your dreams. However, confidence is a skill that you can cultivate, not a personality trait that you were either born with or without.

5. You’re not living with intention.

If you live in a constant state of busyness, you may never give yourself time to slow down and create a plan to reach your goals. But you can actually do more when you focus on doing less. You have to be able to scrutinize everything in your schedule so that you intentionally plan

1. You’re living in the past.

Your brain is naturally wired for survival. Your brain has proof that everything you went through to reach this point in life kept you alive. Its main job is to keep you safe, and it believes that the most efficient way to do that is for you to stay stuck in the past because you survived it.

Creating a new path for yourself requires energy, but your brain likes the path of least resistance. Once you understand how your brain works, you’ll be able to start

time for the things that are most important.

Create a Plan for Your Life While there may be many other reasons why you aren’t living a life you love, the good news is that you get to choose what comes next. Your destiny is your responsibility.

Don’t let your past, or other people, talk you out of becoming the woman that God created you to be.

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give

making choices from your prefrontal cortex (your logical

you hope and a future” – Jeremiah 29:11.

brain) and not stay stuck in the past.

This article was adapted for our format from Stephanie’s blog, www.stephaniestewartcoaching.com.

2. You don’t know what you really want. is because you’re not sure what you want. But God knows, and he’d love to hear it from you. Psalm 37:4-5 says, “Take

14 // May 2025

About The Author

One reason you may not be living a life you truly love Stephanie Stewart is a Certified Christian Life Coach and a Certified Professional Life Coach. You can find more of her writing and contact information at her blog, www.stephaniestewwartcoaching.com.

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Catoosa County Church Directory

Baptist Anchor of Hope Baptist Church 2613 Lakeview Drive Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-8318 Battlefield Baptist Church 178 South Cedar Lane Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-1316 Boynton Baptist Church 4093 Boynton Drive Ringgold, GA 30736 706-952-1551 Briarwood Baptist Church 26 Ellis Springs Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-965-9177 Burning Bush Baptist Church 2195 Burning Bush Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-866-1989 Calvary Memorial Baptist Church 2 E Gate Drive Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-6183 Calvary Memorial Baptist Church 518 Highway #41 Ringgold, GA 30736 706-891-9340 Catoosa Baptist Tabernacle 4994 Highway 41 Ringgold, GA 30736 706-935-4323 Cherokee Valley Baptist Church 1495 Cherokee Valley Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-935-6220 Christ First Church 5994 N Hwy 27 Lafayette, Ga 30728 706-764-2212 Clearview Baptist Church 2183 Dietz Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-866-0164 Cloud Springs Baptist Church 207 Cloud Springs Road Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-0164 Ebenezer Baptist Church 77 Hackett Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-965-7970 Faith Baptist Church 308 Boynton Drive Ringgold, GA 30736 423-509-5334 First Baptist Church Ft. Oglethorpe 2645 LaFayette Road Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-0232 First Baptist Church of Ringgold 7611 Nashville Street Ringgold, GA 30736 706-935-2358 Friendship Primitive Baptist Church 851 Ooltewah Ringgold Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-935-2382 Gospel Way Baptist Church 31 Bowling Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-891-9866 Grace Baptist Church 7638 Nashville Street Ringgold, GA 30736 706-965-7969 Harvest Baptist Church of the Deaf 1314 Old Three Notch Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-375-7107 Video Call: 706-956-0445 Heritage Pointe Baptist Church 60 Dyer Bridge Place Ringgold, GA 30736 706-858-0976 Hickory Grove Baptist Church 5010 Houston Valley Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-673-6999 Keith Baptist Church 1573 Keith Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-450-0963

16 // May 2025

Lakeview First Baptist Church 10 Hudson Street Rossville, GA 30741 706-861-4262 Living Faith Baptist Church Highway 41 Ringgold, GA 30736 706-891-1817 Midway Baptist Church Highway 41 North Ringgold, GA 30736 706-937-2317 Moriah Baptist Church 2864 Battlefield Parkway Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-8843 Mount Peria Baptist Church 341 Sparks Street Ringgold, GA 30736 706-935-4887 Mount Pisgah Baptist Church 66 Westbrook Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-935-3031 Mount Vernon Baptist Church 1006 Mount Vernon Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-935-3872 Nellie Head Memorial Baptist 2379 Catoosa Parkway Tunnell Hill, GA 30755 706-935-5236 New Bethel Baptist Church 1635 Salem Valley Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-965-3500 New Friendship Baptist Church 3833 Salem Valley Road Ringgold, GA 30736 New Heights Baptist Church 158 Ooltewah Ringgold Rd Ringgold, GA 30736 706-965-9838 New Liberty Baptist Church 923 Graysville Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-937-4754 Old Fort Baptist Church 18 Van Cleve Street Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-861-2807 Parkway Baptist Temple 65 Stuart Road Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-0325 Peavine Baptist Church 1089 Peavine Road Rock Spring, GA 30739 706-375-4721 Philadelphia Baptist Church 1065 Pine Grove Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-891-5683 Pine Grove Baptist Church 46 Pine Grove Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-891-2427 Pleasant Grove Baptist Church 7769 Alabama Highway Ringgold, GA 30736 706-935-3348 Pleasant Valley Baptist Church 1995 Ooltewah Ringgold Rd Ringgold, GA 30736 706-537-3633 Poplar Springs Baptist Church 422 Poplar Springs Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-965-4461 Salem Baptist Church 1947 Keith Salem Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-965-3907 Shiloh Baptist Church 24 Kay Street Rossville, GA 30741 706-861-4359 Victory Baptist Church 1013 Layfayette Road Rossville, GA 30741 706-866-0371 Welcome Hill Baptist Church 223 Inman Street Ringgold, GA 30736 706-965-4814

Catholic Saint Gerard Catholic Church 3049 Lafayette Road Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-861-9410 Church of Christ Cohutta Road Church of Christ 2233 Mount Vernon Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-935-3884 Fort Oglethorpe Church of Christ 6 Harker Road Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-4124 Ringgold Church of Christ 4099 Nashville Street Ringgold, GA 30736 706-965-2820 Church of God Boynton Church of God 1956 Three Notch Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-937-6300 Indian Springs Church of God 2256 Highway 41 North Ringgold, GA 30736 706-937-3599 Noble Church of God 75 Glass Rd Lafayette, GA 30728 Ringgold Church of God 117 Emberson Drive Ringgold, GA 30736 706-935-2056 Wallaceville Church of God 236 Harp Switch Road Chickamauga, GA 30707 706-375-2736 Community Battlefield Ministries Church 64 3rd Street Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-9090 Green Pasture Community Church 1008 North Beaumont Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-375-7333 Lee’s Chapel Community Church 3253 Catoosa Parkway Ringgold, GA 30736 706-935-9928 Rock Bridge Community Church 102 Remco Shops Lane Ringgold, GA 30736 706-279-3175 Episcopal Church of the Nativity 1520 Cross Street Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-9773 Full Gospel Yates Spring Full Gospel Church 1300 Yates Springs Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-638-2305 Methodist Boynton UMC 4246 Boynton Drive Ringgold, GA 30736 706-866-2626 Fairview UMC 2112 McFarland Avenue Rossville, GA 30741 423-653-1043 Fort Oglethorpe UMC 1733 Battlefield Parkway Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-820-6314 Graysville UMC 2331 Graysville Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-891-9253 Newnan Springs UMC 78 Monanaw Avenue Rossville GA 30741 706-866-6724 Ringgold UMC 7484 Nashville Street Ringgold, GA 30736 706-935-4777

Nazarene Battlefield Parkway Church of the Nazarene 3220 Battlefield Parkway Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-9838 Non-Denominational Battlefield Assembly In Messiah 195 Ashley Lane, Rossville, GA 30741 304-890-0949 Battlefield Church of Faith Highway 41 South Ringgold, GA 30736 706-937-7729 Battlefield Praise & Worship 1337 Battlefield Pkwy, Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-913-0531 Calvary Chapel Ringgold 548 Boynton Drive Ringgold, GA 30736 706-952-1502 Chosen Generation Ministries 92 W Patterson Avenue Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 423-779-6777 Church of Living Faith 7623 Alabama Highway Ringgold, GA 30736 706-937-5673 Crossroads Church 7638 Nashville Street Ringgold, GA 30736 crossroadsringgold.com Faith Builders International 8309 Highway 41 Ringgold, GA 30736 256-338-5031 Grace Memorial Church 118 East Nashville Street Ringgold, GA 30736 706-965-7969 The Gathering 2501 Pine Grove Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-841 0161 Light House Church 1201 Lafayette Road Rossville, GA 30741 706-861-2715 Living Waters Ministries 1337 Battlefield Pkwy Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 423-255-8655 New Life Church PO Box 1973 Ringgold, GA 30736 706-866-7799 Ridgeland Point Church 1417 Happy Valley Rd. Rossville, GA 30741 RockPointe Church 1278 Cross Street Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-820-6523 Untethered Church 2473 Lafayette Road Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 423-991-6067 Venue Church 3969 Cloud Springs Road Ringgold, GA 30736 423-637-7100 Woodstation Church 13198 Alabama Highway Ringgold, GA 30736 706-965-3360 Presbyterian Chickamauga Presbyterian 700 7th Street Chickamauga, GA 30707 706-375-3432 Christ Fellowship 1176 North Three Notch Rd. Ringgold, GA 30736 706-937-4115 First Presbyterian Church 1 Harker Road Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-2521 Hope Fellowship 2000 Twin Cedars Rd

Chickamauga, GA 30707 hopefellowshipepc.org Morton Memorial 560 Red Belt Rd. Chickamauga, GA 30707

706-338-7176 Seventh-Day Adventist Battlefield Community SDA Church 96 Hillman Lane

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

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

Ringgold, GA 30736 706-861-5999 Lookout Mountain SDA Church 6083 Hwy 157 (Atop Lookout Mtn) Rising Fawn, GA 30738

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

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

LaFayette, GA 30728 706-638-4342 Methodist Elizabeth Lee Methodist Church 139 Cove Rd Chickamauga, GA 706-375-2182 First United Methodist 15 Sunrise Dr. LaFayette, GA 30728 706-638-1942 First United Methodist Church 301 S Main St. LaFayette, GA 30728 706-638-2067

LaFayette First United Methodist Church 301 S. Main Street LaFayette, GA 30728 (706) 638-2057 Rock Springs United Methodist Church 3477 Peavine Rd Rock Springs, GA 706-375-5345 Non-Denominational Battlefield of Life Worship Center 56 Kevin Ln. Rock Springs, GA 770-827-6718 Care Mission 105 N Chattanooga St. LaFayette, GA 30728 706-638-3664 Cowboy Church of Lafayette 196 County Line Rd, Rock Spring, GA 30739 423-596-7227 Faith Worship Center 200 S. Chattanooga St. LaFayette, GA 30728 423-313-7035 Gospel Light Christian Fellowship 36 Fortune St. LaFayette, GA 30728 706-996-8535 Hope Fellowship 2000 Twin Cedars Rd Chickamauga, GA 30707 706-375-4673 Life Gate Church 204 N Main St. LaFayette, GA 30728 706-638-7620 Mission Bridge Church 807 N Main St. LaFayette, GA 30728 423-364-6771 Mount Zion Church 223 Dunwoody Rd. LaFayette, GA 30728 706-638-1238 New Bethel Christian Fellowship 4009 Round Pond Rd. LaFayette, GA 30728 706-638-6904

Walker County Church Directory

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

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

goodnewscm.com // 17

Gò0dNews for Relationships

Praying for the One

W

by Katie Taylor

hen you’re young and in love, you think it

Eventually, my boyfriend and I broke up. It was one

will last forever. Sometimes it does, but it’s

of the worst heartbreaks I have ever experienced. But, the

hard to keep it strong when you’re growing

heartbreak was short-lived because God had brought me

up and changing and moving off to college. You feel like

solace. He brought me another opportunity at love, and this

you have control over everything and nothing at the same

time, it was the one.

time. You feel as though God is constantly handing you

The difference between the relationship with the man I

opportunities, but simultaneously showing you that He is

thought I would marry and the relationship with the man

always in control.

I knew I would marry was the certainty I felt. I had never

When I was younger I read a book called Praying for Your Future Husband. At first, reading that book felt like a

felt a feeling like this before and I knew this had to be something that God had sent me.

major cliche. Praying for your future husband, meeting someone who checks all your boxes, and making a list for what you hope your future husband will be like; is all something we learn in youth group and we’re encouraged to do to help strengthen our faith and help us understand patience.

In college, I thought that I met the man I was going to marry. He was a Christian; he loved me; he took care of me, and made me feel heard and understood. He was a reconnection from high school, a classic story. I had prayed for my husband, read the book, filled in the blanks, and there he was. We talked about marriage and kids, what our house would be like, and where we would live. We were long distance but making it work. I thought this was it and that

I will leave you with this. God will always lead us in the

I was done with the dating thing. That was until I met the

right direction. Sometimes we’ll take a detour and wonder if

man I knew I would marry.

we will ever get back on track. Everyone feels these feelings,

Yes, you read that correctly. I met the man I knew I

and I hope my story brings you peace with whatever may

would marry while dating the man I thought I would marry.

come your way. Patience is a tough thing to learn, but Jesus

It was a very scary and confusing feeling. I felt like I was

will lead you through to the other side.

living in some kind of bad romance novel.

I prayed, and prayed, and prayed again, for six months.

I knew this was a lesson in patience and a test of my faith, so I just had to let God handle it and do what I could do which was to pray and wait.

18 // May 2025

About The Author

I reread that book and it just made it all the more confusing.

Katie Taylor is a senior at Dalton State College. She will earn her bachelor’s degree in English in May. She lives with her husband Aaron, and their cat Rafiki in Ringgold, Georgia.

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goodnewscm.com // 21

Gò0dNews for Everyone

The Mind of Christ

“B

by Dr. Bobby Sneed

ut the natural man does not receive the

praise Him enough. Our best efforts are weak gestures

things of the Spirit of God, for they are

compared to His steadfast love and faithfulness to us,

foolishness to him; nor can he know them,

yet He inhabits our praise! Praise Him and share Him!

because they are spiritually discerned. But he who is

We have reason to glorify His name because we have the

spiritual judges all things, yet he himself is rightly judged

mind of Christ.

by no one. For ‘who has known the mind of the Lord that

As a believer in Jesus, are you living in the mind of

he may instruct Him?’ But we have the mind of Christ” (1

Christ and is the mind of Christ living in you? Read all

Corinthians 2:14-16 NKJV).

of chapter 2 of 1 Corinthians and determine to make

As believers in our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, we

everything you do, think, and say about Him. Paul

have been granted by the power of the Holy Spirit the understanding of faith made possible only by God. The natural person (born into the sinful state of mankind) is incapable of comprehending the mystery of the gospel because the Spirit has not revealed it to them. Without the calling to accept Jesus as their personal Savior, people are “lost” in their sin, not only unto death, which is eternally significant but also from the mere realization of their depravity absent of Christ. When God revealed to us, through the Spirit, that we were lost and condemned, He also opened our eyes to justification by faith in Jesus. We have understood and believed because God called us, saved us, and then granted us the mind of Christ.

While we are incapable of calling anyone to a saving

said that while he was among the church at Corinth, he determined to know nothing but Jesus Christ and Him

knowledge of Jesus, we can and should always point

crucified. Having the mind of Christ will bring renewed

others to Him. In all we do, we should constantly be

clarity and focus on the right things in our walk with

striving to show others our Savior. Psalm 115:1 ESV

our Lord!

says, “Not to us, O Lord, not to us, but to your name

Prayer: Thank you Jesus that you have revealed to

give glory, for the sake of your steadfast love and

me the understanding of the Spirit that I might have faith

your faithfulness!” The truth is, it is not about us, but

in you. Develop in me the mind of Christ that I might

instead, it is always about the Son of God, Jesus Christ,

serve you daily.

honor and we must think clearly on Him. We can never

22 // May 2025

About The Author

our Redeemer. He alone is worthy to receive glory and

Dr. Bobby Sneed is the pastor of Deep Springs Baptist Church. His greatest desire is that all will experience the peace, hope and love of the Father made possible by faith in the Son, Jesus Christ.

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Gò0dNews for Parents

Boundaries

T

by Mitch Jolly

he Lord performed the first wedding ceremony in

boundaries come from the nature of God. He defines

Eden for His image-bearing creatures Adam and

Himself as distinct from His creation by letting us know

Eve with the mission of filling the earth with other

He is holy. He defines for us what constitutes meeting His

image-bearers and ruling over creation as his co-regents. It is perhaps a little bit of an oversimplification, yet I believe the

standard of holiness. Holiness is a boundary.

Boundaries are a gift from God to us for order. Make

work from Genesis 1 can be placed into two large categories:

an effort to become aware of them, set them, and obey

Parenting and the vocational ordering of creation.

them. Teach your children to accept the “no” and grow in

Let’s study the outskirts of the parenting category by introducing boundaries as part of our parenting work.

truth. To either be unaware of or ignorant of boundaries is evidence we have to grow in the knowledge of God and

Why boundaries? Boundaries are part of the nature of God and boundaries are all over creation as God’s means of separating order from chaos. Some boundaries are built-in and naturally reward those who keep them or discipline those who break them.

Because of the curse of sin and the resulting chaos incited by the serpent, parenting is a continual struggle to create order physically, emotionally, and mentally by setting and keeping the right boundaries. Chaos is the work of the serpent. Order is the labor of God’s people through relationships, our homes, and the physical labor of creation’s domains.

One of the many tools the Lord gives us to multiply order and defeat chaos is the gift of boundaries. What is a

the knowledge of ourselves. This is why John says if we say

boundary? “Boundaries define us. They define what is me

we love God and hate our brother we don’t know God. To

and what is not me. A boundary shows me where I end and

say we are not aware of or don’t practice boundaries is to

someone else begins, leading me to a sense of ownership,”

admit we still don’t understand God’s standards, and thus

explains Dr. Cloud and Townsend, “Boundaries” p. 31.

we don’t understand humanity very well. As you parent,

Knowing what I am supposed to be responsible for and

challenge any instruction that dismisses “NO” as a good

what I am not responsible for is freeing. Are you aware of how

and healthy means of protecting and training children.

boundaryless we can be? Boundary-less-ness is a function of

As a parent, pursue what is true. Be a curious seeker of

darkness and the chaotic work of the Serpent. If I am willing

truth. Hide God’s word in your heart, and study all things

to own what I’m responsible for, God’s options for good are

to know what is true. Pass this curious seeking of truth on to

joyfully available. If I don’t own what I’m responsible for,

your children by including them in the search.

Physical boundaries are real. Spiritual boundaries are just as real, and because of the curse of sin, our spiritual blindness, and an active enemy who seeks to sow chaos, they are harder to perceive. Physical and spiritual

24 // May 2025

Don’t lose heart. Keep setting boundaries. Keep obeying the Lord. Lean on each other for support.

This article was adapted for our format from Pastor Jolly’s website, theologyinthedirt.com.

About The Author

good options get cut off, and I will receive corrections.

Mitch Jolly resides in Rome, Georgia. He can be reached at mitch@threeriversc.org.

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Gò0dNews for Kids

Frolicking Like a Calf

by Jan Merop

Hello, Kids! This article is part of our Chatty Critters series. Check in

T

future issues for another installment in this series. he green pastures tempted Frisky – again!

Glancing quickly over his shoulder, Frisky saw his mother happily grazing with the mama cows. He set aside

her warning not to stray too far from the other calves.

And, for the most part, he almost always obeyed.

Frisky thought, There’s just something about springtime and sunshine that makes me want to skip and jump and explore new places.

“I’m sorry, Mom. I know now that I was being careless and selfish. Please forgive me for making you worry.”

Then he admitted that the glowing sunlit grass looked too good to be true. And it was! “I’m saving my energy for the right pastures!” exclaimed Frisky.

Exploring Truth Through God’s Creation “The sun of righteousness (Jesus) will

Meanwhile, his mama and the other cows enjoyed God’s green

dawn on those who honor (respect)

grass where they were.

my name, healing radiating

“I try not to smother Frisk,” said his mom; “but he doesn’t

from its wings.

realize that his pure white coat is tempting to rustlers and can

You will be bursting with energy,

bring danger.”

like colts frisky and frolicking.”

“He is unusually beautiful,” said her friend. “One day he will

Malachi 4:2, The Message

understand your heart.”

She knew God had made calves with a frolicking nature. She pictured Frisky kicking up his heels delightedly when his stall was opened. His exuberance always brought a smile to her. She didn’t

The Calf and You

Have you ever been so happy that you wanted to kick up your heels, dance, and

want him to be fearful…just careful.

jump for joy?

She lifted her soulful brown eyes to check on him once

The Bible says that person is like a

more and discovered only tan, mottled, and black calves playing

frolicking calf that’s just been

together. Pure white Frisky was nowhere to be seen.

released from his stall.

Panic invaded her calm nature as she moved deliberately toward the pastures beyond the book. As she came closer, she began to moo a sound that her little calf knew very well.

Calves are portrayed as among the happiest of God’s creatures in the Bible.

Frisky was about to cross the brook when he noticed that the green, glowing grass was actually shiny, flat, and trampled. Then he saw men on horseback riding toward him.

His heart started beating faster

We’ve all been given at least one special Gift (like Frisky) and should treat it with care.

God will use it to help others know about Him. Seek truth and be full of care for the

and harder than ever before. The

Things that matter to God.

beat of it screamed D A N G E R!!!

Then you’ll be like a happy, carefree calf in

His mom’s persistent voice echoed

The Bible…leaping for joy!

in his mind.

Remember, when tempting things appear

“God has gifted you with an

too good to be true,

exceptionally white coat. Protect

they usually are

yourself from those who may

TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE!

want what you have.”

“Moo!!!” His mom’s cry alerted him. flying leap home.

Frisky and his mom nuzzled each other while he listened to her warnings again.

26 // May 2025

About The Author

Turning swiftly, he propelled his legs into a

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

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

You Too

“Y

by Rodney Jones

ou too can be used,” said the donkey to

resurrection of Jesus Christ. That is the story of “good news”

her master.

that must be told. The task is monumental. The work is

This incredible story is found in Numbers

rewarding. YOU could be the instrument in the hand of God

22:21-33. It is one of those stories that is very hard to believe.

to save people from eternal doom. Don’t be afraid to tell it.

We all know that animals don’t talk. Well except in this case.

God will be with you. Time is running out.

This donkey not only spoke with a man’s voice, (2 Peter

Tell the story to everyone. Tell it often. Tell it, preach it,

2:16) but this donkey saw an invisible angel. God used this

or pass out a Gospel tract. Leave a tract at the grocery store.

donkey to rebuke Balaam, her master, and to even save

Give one to the mailman, police officer, or auto mechanic.

Balaam’s life from sure execution by the angel of the Lord;

“For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper

“…surely now also I had slain thee…”

than any two-edged sword….” (Hebrews 4:12).

God not only used a donkey in His work, but He also used birds. God used ravens to feed His prophet, Elijah.

I am going to Heaven for sure because someone I’ve never met left a Gospel tract in a grocery store where

“And the ravens brought him bread and flesh…” two times every day (1 Kings 17:4-6). God used a fish, “…a great fish, to swallow up Jonah” (Jonah 1:17).

God even used a perfect man once. God used Adam, before the fall, to name the animals and to name his help meet, Eve. It’s very hard for me to identify with being a perfect man. But thank the Lord He also uses imperfect, fallen people. God has used murderers, adulterers, and even idolators.

God used Balaam. He betrayed Israel and led them astray for money, and yet God used him. Moses murdered a man and yet God used him (Exodus 2:11-12). David committed adultery and had Bathsheba’s husband killed, and yet God used him (2 Samuel 11:1-

I worked. I got saved. My children got saved, and my

17). Solomon worshipped idols and yet God used him (1

grandchildren are getting saved. All because someone took

Kings 11:1-6). Saul of Tarsus executed Christians and put

the time and had the courage to leave a Gospel tract behind.

hundreds of people in prison and yet God used him in an

Get involved. The GREAT I AM needs you! You too can be

extraordinary way (Acts 8:1-3).

used! Thank God.

No matter your history God can use you in His work. recruiting for in this age is “soul-winning.” Preaching or telling or sharing the Gospel with every creature on earth (Mark 16:15). The Gospel is the death, burial, and

28 // May 2025

About The Author

Fact is He needs you in His work. The great task God is Rodney Jones is a retired police officer and is presently a housing and residence life staff member at the University of Tennessee, Chattanooga. Rodney is a member of Catoosa Baptist Tabernacle in Ringgold, Georgia.

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Gò0dNews for Discovering More

More Than a Paradigm Shift

couple years ago, my middle daughter and I visited a local Starbucks. We had orders for Joy and all three girls. A vanilla-bean frappuccino, two pink drinks, and a banana nut bread.

Have you ever gone through the drive-through at Starbucks and realized that it would’ve been faster to go inside? Or maybe go to Colombia and harvest the coffee beans yourself? Inside, time flies because you are people-watching, smelling the fresh-ground coffee, and listening to the whooshing sound of the drink machine as the baristas fulfill custom orders. It’s a magical playground for your senses.

But in the drive-through line, Starbucks feels like a race between a turtle and a snail, where no one wins.

That day, the line was even slower than usual. I tried to keep my patience because my impressionable, teenage daughter was with me. Keep in mind, I rarely order anything for myself from Starbucks. I was there purely out of love for my wife and children.

After working our way closer to the window, there were only two cars in front of us—and probably two hundred behind us, but that was their problem. I had suffered in the wilderness, now it was their turn.

I watched as the driver at the window paid for and then received her order. And then she remained at the window and ordered additional food, at least that’s what it looked like. Wait, what? That meant she had to pay again AND the staff must’ve been going crazy because now she had another order below all the other orders above her. This was not an efficient use of time, and it was unbelievably annoying.

I decided I’d use the opportunity to give Campbell a lesson in preparedness and courtesy. “This is taking a long time, and there are a lot of cars behind us,” I said. “Always remember when you place your order to get it right and keep it succinct as a courtesy to those behind you.”

Campbell nodded.

Finally, they drove away.

Now, only one car remained between us and our order.

I watched as they paid and just like the car in front of them, they talked with the window attendant for an unusually long time!

30 // May 2025

“Their order isn’t ready yet either?” I said.

A couple minutes passed, and the window attendant handed their order out the window. After taking her drinks, she continued to speak with the window attendant. Then she handed them her credit card—again!

“She must be adding to her order, too? What’s wrong with all these people?”

Eventually, they drove off.

As I approached the window and curtly handed the attendant my phone for the app, she said, “Oh, there’s no charge today. The person in front of you paid for your order.”

“Pardon me?”

“The person in front of you paid for your order. It’s been going for about a dozen cars now, ” she explained.

Ohhhh. Slow down, Garrett. Now that’s a paradigm shift.

“Well, I’d like to pay for the person behind me,” I said cheerfully. She gave me their total, charged it on the app, and off we went.

Quite a shift, in both my head and my heart. That’s MORE THAN. I have no idea how long that chain of kindness continued that day, but I’m sure at some point it ended— probably the guy by himself who looked in his rearview mirror and saw a Suburban full of hungry passengers.

I’d like to think it ended with someone who really needed the extra shot of kindness.

About The Author

A

by Garrett Nudd

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

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Gò0dNews for your Taste Buds

C

Classic Juicy Beef Burgers

elebrate National Burger Day on May 28, 2025, with Classic Juicy Beef Burgers. This recipe is

Instructions

straightforward and focuses on making the perfect,

succulent burger with minimal fuss. Ideal for grilling or pan-frying, these burgers are sure to be a hit at any gathering or barbecue.

Ingredients

1. Prepare the Beef Patties:

• In a large bowl, gently mix the ground beef with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Be careful not to overwork the meat, as this can make the burgers tough.

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• Divide the meat into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a patty about ¾ inch thick. Use your thumb to make a small indentation in the center of each patty. This helps the burgers cook evenly and prevents them from puffing up in the center.

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

2. Cook the Burgers:

• 1 pound ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat) • 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon onion powder • 4 hamburger buns • Lettuce leaves • Tomato slices • Pickles • Ketchup and mustard (optional) • Sliced cheese (optional, like cheddar or Swiss)

• Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the patties on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or 6-7 minutes per side for medium. If adding cheese, place a slice on each patty during the last minute of cooking and close the grill lid to melt.

• Pan-Frying: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the patties and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or 6-7 minutes per side for medium. Add cheese during the last minute if desired.

3. Prepare the Buns:

• Toast the hamburger buns on the grill or in a skillet until lightly browned, about 1 minute.

4. Assemble the Burgers:

• Spread your desired condiments on the bottom half of each bun. Place a lettuce leaf, then the cooked beef patty, and top with tomato slices and pickles. Finish with the top half of the bun.

Tips for Success:

• For added flavor, you can season the outside of the patties with additional salt and pepper before cooking.

• To keep the burgers juicy, avoid pressing down on them while they cook.

32 // May 2025

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Gò0dNews Poetry

The Vine

by Lori McAfee

It’s no coincidence how You created the vine Intentionally crafted by design.

The blood of life flows through the veins, Abide in one another, You shall remain.

A silhouette heart in every leaf, Love one another. We believe.

Kneel before You with prayers, expectant.

In your peace and strength, I am resilient.

Pressed into seeking produces fruitfulness, Much dreaded process to refine, Promises an abundant life abiding in The Vine.

34 // May 2025

About The Author

Forever faithful in Your holiness.

Lori McAfee, author of Burning Hope, is a certified life coach, speaker, and host of the popular podcast Get Your Rear In Gear.

For more information, see www.lorimcafeecoaching.com.

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Gò0dNews for Seniors

Sticky Notes for the Brain

H

by Chrissie Joy Jackson

ave you ever had a word or a conversation pop up

by sight.” Another lady said, “Remember the words, ‘it

from somewhere in the recesses of your mind that

came to pass.’” That little phrase from God’s word was a

you didn’t remember you remembered? Words of

beam of light and solid truth. Cancer is now but a twenty-

encouragement, a verse, a shared conversation get stored away somewhere in your mind, ready for use when needed.

Sometimes it is years later when the words come back to you, as if they were said yesterday.

two-year-old memory to me.

“A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver” (Proverbs 25:11 NKJV).

Always be ready to give a word of encouragement.

When I was driving a community van before I retired,

You may forget you ever said the words. You may never

a lady named Rosa gifted me with words that at the time

know how deeply they impacted the person. Your words

seemed nice for her but irrelevant for me. She said, “You

to another may become a sticky note in their brain that

know, I am a widow, I live alone. I am never lonely. When

will show up in their future giving them the courage or the

my husband died, I asked the Lord to keep me from being

comfort they need.

lonely. He has. I feel Him with me every day.” I was

I remember when my boys were still little guys. It was

married and couldn’t imagine what living alone was like.I

an especially hard time in our lives. I was shopping at a

didn’t realize those words would stick in my brain like a

Cash and Carry grocery store. You would have to be a senior

sticky note to be used years later when needed. She was

citizen to remember that one! A German pastor’s wife who

just sharing her heart with me. She had no idea how her

I loved so much told me, “Pray in the spirit every day. Ask

testimony would be a comfort for me one day.

God to give you the words to pray when you don’t know

When my husband died, I told his sister, “I don’t know

what to do.” Then she prayed for me, out loud, there by

what to do. I have never lived alone. I had Chuck when the

the dairy section. That conversation gave me courage, and

boys grew up and were on their own. Who am I now?”

started me on a journey of a deeper prayer life.

She told me, “Just be. Be you.” Simple words that have resurfaced during several difficult times of

Be thoughtful about what you tell others.

Negative words can be the stickiest

self-doubt. After the memorial service,

words of all and be just as potent.

the flurry of activity was over, and the

Ephesians 4:29 NKJV says, “Let

house was quiet, Rosa’s words were

no corrupt word proceed forth

there. I also remembered the words

out of your mouth, but what is

of Jesus as recorded in Hebrews 13:5

good for necessary edification,

NKJV, “He himself has said, ‘I

that it may impart grace to

will never leave you nor forsake

the hearers.”

you.’” He never has.

Which words do you

Then there was the time

have to put on someone else’s

I had ovarian cancer. My teacher told me something I still

sticky note for their brain that will bless their lives?

say often: “What I know is more Corinthians. 5:7 NKJV confirms this, “We walk by faith and not

36 // May 2025

About The Author

real than what I feel.” Second Chrissie Joy Jackson is a retired widow and a member of Living Word Church.

Sharing the love and care of the Father through missions is her passion.

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Gò0dNews for Health & Fitness

Musings on Fitness and Health and Why It's Important to Me

T

by Kirstin Reggel

ruly we are born with one body and given an

I am learning more about eating/fueling my body in a way

unknown amount of time on this side of heaven.

that promotes muscle growth and health, bone growth and

Yes, as Christians, we believe that we will be given

health, as well as maintaining a healthy gut which is the

a new form once Christ returns. For today, we are still on this mortal coil. At birth, we were given a set of DNA that

basis of the immune system.

Examples of quick and easy ways to do this start with

we did not have any control over or say so in, and also given

making sure I am getting enough water throughout the

an opportunity to live. How we treat and care for this body/

day. I keep what feels like my “emotional support” water

vessel can contribute to how it functions in the future. Most

bottle on me at all times, filling it up at work and at the gym.

of us want the same thing: to live with autonomy as long as

Another way is to eat a colorful and balanced plate with as

we can, to take care of ourselves and love and care for those

much whole food as possible. Lastly, if those cravings hit

around us, and then to pass on when this body is ready.

for something sweet, I will allow myself to have it and enjoy

Sometimes events in our life change what we think should happen to our bodies and taking care of them now

it…then move on from it.

The strength that we build in our 20s-30s will pay it

pays it forward to our future selves. Sometimes events

forward to our future selves in our 40s-50s and will continue

i.e. illnesses or accidents occur that drastically shift the

for decades later, as the Lord allows. I enjoy strength

course of what we think we should be on. The condition of

training. Yes, lifting heavy things can be empowering,

our bodies plays a large part in how we respond to those

functionally life-giving, and reduce the need for assistance

events. Recently my mind has been trying to care for my

from others for basic activities. But it's also fun! Music is a

body with food as fuel, shifting my mindset from trying to

huge part of the set up of the workout environment. It can

eat “right.” My knowledge has changed and grown from

provide timing and external cues to keep up with the beat as

the desire to be “thin,” “skinny,” or

well as provide distraction. Training is also more fun with a

“visually appealing” to “strong” and

friend or whole community like a class setting. I can tolerate

“confident.” Confidence, not in an

so much more when I have someone beside me. We can

arrogant manner, but confidence

encourage each other to continue and finish well.

that I am taking the best care of

Focusing on healthy living and taking care of our

myself and giving my body what

bodies reminds me of the parable in Matthew 25:14-30 NIV

serves it best to keep it running

of the master who gave talents to his servants, especially

and that it can tolerate those

verse 23, “His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful

outside stressors that act upon it.

servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your

About The Author

master’s happiness!”

38 // May 2025

Kirstin Reggel is a physical therapist, avid CrossFit enthusiast, and coach who loves the Lord. She lives near Rome, Georgia, and encourages others to focus on their fitness and health, both mental and physical.

One team. One heartbeat.

For one you.

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