November 2022

Gò0dNews November 2022

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Christian Magazine

®

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About Us WRITERS

Dr. Alan Hix Beth Penny Brent Goodge David Huff Donald Cantrell Granger Hughes Jodi Varnado Judy Hood Katie Loveless Kenneth E. Ware Matt Jensen Regina Law Smith Sandra Gilmore Stephanie Daniels Terrie Ruff Zebbie Brewster

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

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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.

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Contents NOVEMBER 2022

GoodNews from the Pastor’s Desk

6 The Family Supper Table

by Donald Cantrell

GoodNews for Kids

8 Count Your Blessings

by Katie Loveless

GoodNews Money Matters

10 How Long Will

My Money Last?

by Granger Hughes GoodNews for Men

12 Did God Really Say...?

by Brent Goodge

GoodNews for Women

14 I Finally Got Over Myself!

by Terrie Ruff

GoodNews for Grandparents

18 Thank You Lord

by Zebbie Brewster

GoodNews for Everyone

20 PS138V8

by Regina Law Smith

GoodNews Cover Story

22 Compass Advisors:

Helping You Navigate the Medicare Maze

GoodNews for Everyone

24 Objects In the Mirror Are

Smaller Than They Appear

by Beth Penny

GoodNews for Everyone

26 How Do You Pray?

by David Huff

GoodNews Poetry

28 Thanksgiving Day

by Judy Hood

GoodNews for Everyone

30 Are You Tilting at Windmills?

by Dr. Alan Hix

GoodNews for Health

32 Hamilton Health Care

6

System New Telehealth Service

GoodNews for your Taste Buds

34 Thanksgiving Sweet Potato Casserole Boats

by Jodi Varnado GoodNews for Everyone

36 Is God One Person?

by Matt Jensen

GoodNews for Everyone

38 While He Was Thinking

by Sandra Gilmore

22

GoodNews for Everyone

40 Rejoice In Your Harvest

by Stephanie Daniels

GoodNews for Everyone

42 Standing Firm in The Last Days

by Kenneth E. Ware

40

Gò0dNews from the Pastor’s Desk

The Family Supper Table

by Donald Cantrell

I

remember it as if it happened yesterday. My daughter

only my wife and I were fans of this awesome pizza; some

called my wife late at night in November 2019 and told

people in my family are not cultured).

her she felt as though she was going to die if she did not

The beauty in all of this was simple—it was not about

go to the E.R. My wife took her to the E.R., and while there,

the food. The blessing of the virus driving the world into

they treated her for an unknown illness—which would soon

isolation was that our family became even closer as we

be known as Covid-19. After two trips to the doctor’s office

would sit down each and every evening and share stories

and two trips to the E.R., Whitney finally got better, but

about our day. There was a sense of peace and pleasure in

they still had no clue as to why she was sick. It was during

seeing everyone’s car pulling into our driveway because I

the spring of 2020 that news of the virus began to take hold

knew that, once again, they had survived.

of the world and life as we knew it seemed to change forever.

Due to the world being on lockdown, something good happened within our family—we were re-introduced to the supper table. As a pastor, I have had the good fortune of being able to work from home for the last twelve years.

Because of that, it has been my pleasure to become a “cook.” Since most of the local eating places were off limits, I became the family chef, as I would have supper ready and waiting for everyone to come eat at our house.

Though the world was facing death and danger, our family of five found an oasis within

It was a blessing to sit around the family supper table

the confines of our house, sitting around the supper table.

watching as everyone set their worries and frustrations

Once everyone left work, they would arrive at our house

aside while eating some “good meals” and some “not so

one by one until my wife, daughter, son-in-law, and

good meals.” One thing that was established within our

granddaughter were safely and happily eating and laughing

family was once we sit down to eat, there is to be no talk

at the table.

of the virus. We celebrated another day of living. We live

To be completely honest with you, I am not a chef

in a world of advanced technology, but one of the greatest

because my forte is baking bread and crafting sumptuous

inventions known to mankind is the family supper table.

all sorts of beans from the crockpot, pork chops that were baked in the oven, and even a “Tim Tebow Pizza” (although,

6 // November 2022

About The Author

desserts. During the past few years our family has tried Donald Cantrell is a lifelong native of Murray county and has been pastoring and preaching since 1980. He has had the honor of publishing over thirty books and his sermon material is sold all over the world by various online companies. If you visit his house any weekend in the fall you will find them watching the “Florida Gators or the New England Patriots… Chomp Chomp.”

5 Chattanooga Area Locations thejoint.com H E A D O N O U T F O R S O M E F A M I LY F U N T H I S F A L L ! O U R F A R M F E AT U R E S E X O T I C ANIMALS, UNIQUE LODGING OPTIONS A N D U N F O R G E T TA B L E E X P E R I E N C E S !

LOCAL TENNESSEANS LOOKING FOR A N A M A Z I N G ‘ S TA Y C AT I O N ' , A S W E L L A S T H O S E T R AV E L I N G I N T O T H E S E Stay Here, Play Here A P PA L A C H I A N F O O T H I L L S T O E N J O Y T H E FA L L C O L O R S W I L L F I N D O C O E E R I V E R S I D E FA R M T O B E T H E P E R F E C T P L A C E T O M A K E M E M O R I E S T H E Y W I L L C H E R I S H A L I F E T I M E ! H A P P Y FA L L Y ’ A L L !

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Gò0dNews for Kids

Count Your Blessings

H

by Katie Loveless

ave you ever heard the expression attitude is

Challenge 1 Kids: Explore in your yard, at a park, or

everything? Attitude really is important. The Bible

help a grown-up tend to a houseplant. As you do, take note

says so in Proverbs 23:7, where we gain the phrase

of the shapes and edges of the foliage around you. Count

adapted from the KJV, “As a man thinks in his heart so is

your blessings for every point. For a leaf with 3 points,

he.” We can believe the Bible. It tells us what is true about

identify 3 things you are grateful for. For a leaf with 5

God and ourselves. The Bible tells us that the way we think

points, name 5 things you like.

will shape who we become and what we do. In other words, our thinking steers the direction of our hearts.

My middle son, Sawyer, came into my room with a Scholastic book. The book is written about different types of animal feet and has a very interesting cover of a boy with aardvark feet. Sawyer cannot yet read at four-years-old. He made an assumption about truth based on what he saw on the cover. He pointed at the animal feet, the boy on the cover, and the aardvark. He assumed the boy turned into an aardvark by touching the animal’s feet. That is not at all what the book says.

The book actually presents interesting facts about

Challenge 2 Jewels: Find a verse in the Bible that

animal feet and stirs your imagination to think about

mentions counting, thankfulness, or discovery. What

what it would be like to have animal feet. In the case of

treasure did you find? What is the truth you found and want

the boy with the aardvark feet, he could quickly unearth

to keep?

buried treasure. However, we don’t need animal feet to

Challenge 3 Keepers: Keep it in your heart. Pray

uncover treasure. We can find it in our hearts by letting

about a person or thing you counted as a blessing. Make

Jesus in. We can even find it in our own backyard by

this month one where you ask God to bless and protect

taking time to count our blessings.

someone or something you discovered is a blessing in your

My prayer for you as you take time to do this is for you

life. Partner with a grown-up to help you pray or to talk

to ask God to help you unearth truth. I pray you will dig

about what God has put on your heart in prayer. Consider

into the word. I challenge you to learn from the Bible and

whether God is prompting you to serve with an act of

its teachings so you can read for yourself what is true about

kindness to keep the blessings coming.

are ready for adventure, take the 1, 2, 3 challenge below!

8 // November 2022

About The Author

God and you. Finding the truth is as simple as 1, 2, 3. If you Katie Loveless is a social worker, wife, and mother of five boys. She is a student of grace who enjoys writing, gardening, and empowering others to pursue stability.

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How Long Will My Money Last?

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.

T

his is a tough question many of us will ask at some point in our

perform two of those six ADLs, your check would double to $4,000 a

lives as we face many obstacles when planning for things like

month for up to five years.

long-term care, taxes, potential market downturns, and even

Taxes

longevity risk.

Men at age 65 today can expect to live until age 84 on average, and

We’ve been hardwired to reduce taxable income by loading our 401(k)s and other tax-deferred accounts, forgetting about our silent

women on average, until age 87. About one of every four 65-year-olds

partner: the IRS. We must realize the risk of future tax hikes we may

today will live past age 90, and one of ten past 95.1

encounter with deferred funds due to outstanding and ever-increasing

This poses a problem our parents or grandparents didn’t face—it’s

national debt. Here are some brief solutions.

a good problem, but a problem nonetheless. Let’s address strategies

Roth Conversion

to combat these realities and work toward making your retirement

You can convert money in a deferred account to pay the taxes now

income last 20 to 30 years!

rather than later. There are no income limits to do this, but remember,

Long-term care (LTC)

you have to pay these taxes eventually!

The average annual cost of LTC is $108,405.2 Someone turning

Roth IRA

65 today has a 70% chance of needing some type of LTC.3 This means

This takes a while to build up at $7,000 a year for those over 50

LTC is worth accounting for in our retirement plans. Let’s look at a few

and comes with income limitations, which could be difficult for high-

ways to do this.

income earners.

Indexed universal life policy

Life Insurance Retirement Plan

This allows you to access the death benefit in the event you

This can be indexed and there are no contribution or income

need LTC and are unable to perform two of the six activities of daily

limits. Also, when you need the money, it can be withdrawn tax-free, if

living (ADLs), like feeding, bathing, toileting, etc., and aren’t tied to

done correctly.

certain care facilities. This money can also be used to build a handicap

Market downturn

accessible home if you’d rather — it’s your choice.

If you’ve been contributing to your retirement income for any

Traditional LTC policy

amount of time, you know market downturn is always a risk. To better

This is a “use it or lose it” product with the potential of wasting

create a retirement income plan, it’s important to assess your risk

money on something you may never need. A lot of these policies also

tolerance by having your portfolio tested to discover your statistical

restrict which care facilities you can use, which might be problematic

risk versus reward. If you haven’t tested your portfolio, now is the

for some.

time to do it. Many of us could be positioning ourselves to experience

LTC-focused financial vehicles This would be utilizing an annuity with an LTC rider. This is a good option for someone who doesn’t want the “use it or lose it” strategy.

another 2008 and don’t even know it.

These are three key components to help ensure that we don’t run out of money. I urge you to take all into consideration when

The key here is you aren’t qualifying from a health standpoint;

developing your retirement plan. Working alongside an experienced

however, if you tried to purchase an annuity and couldn’t perform two

financial professional can help you explore your options and develop a

of the six aforementioned ADLs before you purchased it, the LTC rider

plan that works for your retirement needs.

wouldn’t be an option.

For example, let’s say you invested $300,000 that generated a lifetime income check of $2,000 a month. In the event you couldn’t

10 // November 2022

Remember: It’s not what we make, it’s what we keep that counts! __________________ 1. https://www.ssa.gov/OACT/population/longevity.html 2. https://acl.gov/ltc/basic-needs/how-much-care-will-you-need 3. https://www.medicaidplanningassistance.org/nursing-home-costs/

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Gò0dNews for Men

Did God Really Say…?

T

by Brent Goodge

here’s a story at the end of the book of Jeremiah

Jeremiah promised to bring them God’s word, they added,

that doesn’t often make it to the Bible bedtime

“Let the Lord be a true and faithful Witness between us…

storybooks. The story is touched on in five verses

whether it is pleasing or displeasing, we will obey the voice

of 2 Kings (2 Kings 25:22-26), and the Chronicles don’t mention it. It’s the story of the “fortunate” Jews who

of the Lord our God” (Jeremiah 42:5,6).

Ten days later, Jeremiah brought them the word of the

survived the siege of Nebuchadnezzar and were not

Lord. God instructed that the people stay in the land of

carried off to Babylon.

Judah. God would move the heart of Nebuchadnezzar to

By direct order of Nebuchadnezzar himself, Jeremiah

spare them. Conversely, if they chose to go to Egypt, hardly

was released from prison after the Babylonian army took

any of them would survive to return. The devastation they

Jerusalem. Given the choice to travel to Babylon as a

were desperate to escape would find them in Egypt.

guest of Nebuchadnezzar or to stay behind with the other

The leaders of the people, having already made up their

remaining Jews, Jeremiah chose to remain in Judah. He

minds to go to Egypt, proclaimed, “You speak falsely! The

moved to Mizpah to live. There he joined Gedaliah,

Lord our God has not sent you to say, ‘Do not go into

whom Nebuchadnezzar had appointed governor of the remaining people.

Egypt’” (Jeremiah 43:2). Having already promised to accept the word of the Lord through Jeremiah,

Read Jeremiah chapters 40-45 to get the

they denied that God actually inspired the

entire story. In short, Gedaliah was murdered

words His prophet was sharing with them.

and the Jews remaining were at a loss for what

There is a much older story that reveals

to do. Some favored staying in Judah. Others

where this attitude originated. About 3,500 years

favored escaping to Egypt in fear that Babylon

before Jeremiah, a snake waited in a tree. The

would come to destroy them for the murder

snake was eating fruit that Adam and Eve had

of Gedaliah.

been forbidden to partake of. His conversation

Thankfully, Jeremiah was yet among them, and he could relate God’s

began with “Did God really say…?” and quickly moved to “You shall not surely

instructions to them. Their

die,” in direct contradiction to the

request to Jeremiah could

word of God. Then he added that,

hardly have been more

through disobedience, Eve could

respectful. “Please let our

become like God (Genesis 3:1-

petition be acceptable to

5). Satan inspired the Jews who

you, and pray for us to

rejected the word of Jeremiah.

the Lord your God…

Satan inspires all those today

that the Lord your

who, by their words and deeds

God may show us

implies the question, “Did God

the way in which

REALLY say…?”

we should walk and do” (Jeremiah 42:2,3). When

12 // November 2022

About The Author

the thing we should Brent Goodge lives in Whitfield County, and he wants the quote of his life to be like Jesus, “It is written…” rather than “Did God REALLY say…?”

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Gò0dNews for Women

I Finally Got Over Myself!

“He must increase, but I must decrease” (John 3:30).

I

by Terrie Ruff was so happy to see my friend Trish today! Her

Wow! Like Trish, I want to follow the example

bright and cheerful smile is such a refreshing

that Jesus left for us. He gave all as He poured

greeting as I pass by her department or as she

out His life to fulfill God’s plan for the salvation

enters my office. The joy of the Lord is all over

of humanity. He got over Himself and His sole

her! As we made plans for lunch, I was excited because whenever I spend time with her, I always walk away with food for thought, and today would be no exception.

In a timely manner, I completed my morning tasks and hurriedly gathered my lunch bag and headed towards Trish’s office. From there, we made our way to a quiet spot in the cafeteria.

As we sat down, she began sharing how God had been blessing her and her husband. He had been leading and guiding them as they were making life-changing decisions. She talked about wanting to do more

purpose was to glorify His Father and edify

for God and how she was more ready now to do

others. I, too, have determined to get over myself

whatever He asked of her, to go wherever He

in surrender to God’s purpose for my life. Daily,

asked her to go, and to be bold for Him and not

I give Him all. Daily, I die so that I can live for

concerned with what others thought. Wow! I look

Him. Trish, I get it, and like you, I finally got over

at her enthusiasm with amazement, and before I

myself too!

could ask her the “how” question, she answered

Humility! What does it look like in your life? Do

my silent questioning. “Terrie, I finally got over

you think of others before yourself? Do you serve, pray

myself. Now I can really serve God.” Her laugh

or worship in a spirit of humility? Reflect on ways

was evidence of the new found freedom and joy

that you can develop a humble spirit in practical,

she had in emptying herself completely for God to

everyday ways.

and used as He pleased.

14 // November 2022

About The Author

fill her to overflow, so that she could be His vessel

Terrie E. Ruff is a public speaker, soloist and inspirational author. She is an active member of the Orchard Park SDA Church in Chattanooga.

Terrie can be contacted at Terrie.Ruff@lpnt.net.

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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 // November 2022

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

List/Update Your Church Listing (423) 790-5378

goodnewscm.com // 17

Gò0dNews for Grandparents

Thank You Lord

I

by Zebbie Brewster

had gone to my husband’s doctor’s appointment with him. As I followed behind him, trying to find his doctor’s office, a sign in another doctor’s office

caught my eye. It was a simple sign, but to me, it spoke volumes. It said, “Work Hard, Stay Humble, Be Kind.” I thought to myself, is that the secret to a successful life? I knew in my heart that I had fallen way behind in following those simple directions.

The Bible tells us in Matthew 6:33, “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.”

Seeking God’s way for my life was always the right road to travel on, even though I knew there had been times I had veered off that path. My grandfather set the example for me as a child for how to walk with God and be successful for God. My grandfather was always working hard at whatever job he was doing. From working in the hay field, to cutting fire wood, he worked hard at it. He was no shirker and got the job done. I loved to listen to him talk to God in prayer. He always said, “Thank You Lord, that everything is as well with us as it I never fully understood the meaning behind it.

Life was not always easy, yet God was real in my grandfather’s life. He loved God and his family, and stayed faithful to the God who was faithful to him.

I remember how he would often visit my family after I had a family of my own. It seems that he would often forget his hat, which he always wore.

That gave him an excuse to come back to get it and visit again. My mom told me that she and her dad were prayer partners. They would meet and have

18 // November 2022

prayer together. What a blessing that was to hear about! Praying for them was important. It also helped increase our faith as we saw their prayers come to fruition.

I am thankful God blessed me and allowed me to be born into a Christian home. Thank You Lord, that everything is as well with us as it is. For Lord, You truly are worthy of all our love and praise.

About The Author

is.” As a child, hearing him say that in his prayers,

Zebbie Brewster resides in Summerville, Georgia. She is an active member at Perennial Springs Baptist Church.

Church Activities & Events Westwood Baptist Church Mac Powell & Friends

Friday, November 4 | 8PM 4001 Georgetown Rd NW, Cleveland, TN

United Christian Academy Glow Run

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

PS138V8

by Regina Law Smith

I

have always believed that God provides everything we

ways,” he said. “I had been praying for some extra money

need. He may not answer our prayers in the ways we

for my business license and insurance, with no idea where it

want or on the timelines we expect, but He does answer.

was going to come from. Today, I went to the mailbox and

And every now and then, in the midst of daily living, we are

found a check for $2,000 from online classes I had dropped

allowed a powerful glimpse of our Father’s hand at work.

weeks after the refund date. But somehow, someway, the

I’ve certainly seen His hand in my life. One morning

refund was processed and sent to me. Prayer is an amazing,

on my way to work, I was troubled and crying so hard

amazing thing!” The assurance that your children know

I was heaving. Suddenly, a car swerved in front of me. I

God is priceless.

can’t tell you the make, model, or color of the car, but I’ll never forget the license plate: PS138V8—Psalm 138, Verse

I was most aware of God providing for my needs one December long ago. It was one of those months when

8—which says, “The Lord will perfect that which concerns me”

there was more

NOV

G A

month than money, and I knew with Christmas just

(KJV). Well, what

a week away, I

else could I do but

wouldn’t have

dry my eyes, blow

the means to buy

my nose, and give

presents for my

a prayer of thanks

young sons. I spent

to God?

the night pondering

He is present in

ways to help them

the workplace, too.

understand that

My niece, a single mother of two, arrived at work not long

the birth of Jesus Christ is the true meaning of Christmas

ago with her gas tank on empty. “Okay, God,” she prayed

and the only gift we need. The next morning, a friend from

at her desk. “You promised to take care of my needs, and I

church called and said, “Just hear me out. My husband and

need gas!” Before my niece could complete her prayer, a co-

I want to give you $250 to help with Christmas for your

worker asked for a lift home that entire week. In exchange?

boys.” Through my tears, I whispered, “Thank you” to my

The co-worker offered to fill up the gas tank.

friend—and to my Father.

God has been active in my co-workers’ lives as well.

It was I, not my sons, who needed to understand the

When I was on an out-of-town training assignment, a

true meaning of Christmas that year. I was reminded in a

colleague became disoriented. Two other co-workers took

powerful way that God knows our needs more than we do.

her to the emergency room. One co-worker recognized her

And, through the birth of Jesus Christ, He has a divine plan

symptoms as those of a stroke, and the other knew just

to provide for all of them—in ways that are beautifully clear

where to find the nearest hospital. My ailing colleague made

to our humble human hearts.

by God in her path that day.

It warmed my heart recently to receive this voice message from my grown son: “God works in mysterious

20 // November 2022

About The Author

a full recovery, and says we were her “angel family” placed Regina Law Smith is presently married and God blessed her with the opportunity to raise six sons and one daughter. Her life experiences are of immeasurable value to this world and her community.

It is no surprise that her favorite quote is, “Believe what you want to believe, but know the Truth.”

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J

Medicare Maze eff and Regenia Harris, owners of Compass Advisors, has over fourteen years of experience in the Medicare insurance

industry. Jeff became an agency owner in 2008

or a Medicare Advantage plan? Approaching Medicare can often be intimidating, time-consuming, and confusing, especially when there are so many options to choose from. But there’s no need to tackle this complicated process alone. Compass Advisors is

and has continued to serve Catoosa, Dade, and

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Walker Counties with his guidance ever since. As a

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The Medicare annual enrollment period opens on

to clients in North Georgia, including Medicare

October 15 and closes on December 7. This Medicare

Supplements, Medicare Advantage, and Medicare

enrollment period is particularly important for

Drug Plans. With the apt tagline, “Helping you

North Georgia residents, with long-awaited new

navigate the Medicare maze,” Jeff helps individuals

opportunities available for the first time this year.

and families throughout our community identify,

“Our North Georgia counties have always been a

understand, and select the specific Medicare plan

little left out, especially Walker County, from the

that works best for their needs. Do you find yourself

number of plans available for individuals. The

asking these questions: Am I eligible for Medicare?

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What plans am I eligible for? How do I know what

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Tennessee has expanded to the Georgia market and

22 // November 2022

companies. “These companies are not aware of local happenings and network issues. It’s always a good idea to shop small and locally,” said Harris. “When I started Compass Advisors, I wanted to build a business model that reflected the challenge of The Great Commission. My approach with Compass Advisors is to help each and every person find the best possible Medicare drug or health plan for their individual needs and then continue to service them.

Humana has introduced an entirely new line-up of Medicare Advantage Plans,” said Harris. It’s critical that every resident of North Georgia conducts a full review of their current Medicare plan to evaluate if

In return, that client would refer me to their friends and family. It has worked and God has blessed the effort put into my business by the number of calls I receive from individuals referred by my clients.

When you call me, I simply shop local insurance UNDERSTANDING companies find you a better rate or plan that fits THE COSTtoOF his Medicare consulting service from his home office LONG TERMneeds best. If I determine that you are your medical since 2008 but on October 3, 2022, he celebrated the CARE, MEDICARE, in the best plan, I simply tell you to stay in place. grand opening of his local office in Walker County. AND MEDICARE I have testimony after testimony about how my “With the very new Medicare opportunities for our SUPPLEMENTS... process has saved clients a lot of money or given an MEET AND TALK community, I am excited to welcome face-to-face individual peace of mind that they are in the best consultations in the new office this year,” said Harris.TO OUR EXPERTS. a better option is now available. Jeff has operated

Compass Advisors is now located at 56B Fieldstone Village Drive, Rock Spring, Georgia 30739.

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Compass advisors Helping You Navigate goodnewscm.com // 23 The Medicare Maze

Gò0dNews for Everyone

Objects In the Mirror Are Smaller Than They Appear

T

by Beth Penny

here are so many pivotal moments in our lives

forward and move forward as we understand that the

that imprint on our memories. One of those for me

past has a presence in our future but does not control it.

will always be the day I turned sixteen and got my

My advice is to live life as you would drive a car. Look

driver’s license. For me, as for so many others, being able

forward and move on from what mistakes or errors you

to drive alone was the first step in young freedom and

have made in the past. Look forward and remember

independence. It signified so much more than that little

that God is always above. An old adage says, “If what is

piece of paper you receive that says you passed a test.

ahead scares you and what’s behind hurts you, just look

But learning to drive, on the other hand, was full of so

up. He never fails to help you.”

many more issues. Learning to be totally aware of your surroundings proves difficult until it becomes second nature. One of the first driving lessons my dad gave me was learning to use the mirrors. The side mirrors and rearview mirror have their own purpose, and we have to learn to use them to aid the process of driving. However, they aren’t the most important thing to help us drive.

As we drive, we glance in the mirrors to look for things beside us, right behind us, or even further behind us. We use those to help us know our

Those words ring true. Just as the words in Psalm

surroundings or potential dangers. We don’t, however,

121, “Look up to the mountains—does my help come

continuously drive while looking through the rearview

from there? My help comes from the Lord, who made

mirror. There is a reason the windshield is bigger than

heaven and earth…The Lord himself watches over you!

the rearview. We always have to look forward to where

The Lord stands beside you as your protective shade”

we are going and be aware but not focused on what is

(1-2, 5). Don’t let mistakes of the past guide what you can

behind us.

accomplish in the present. Remember that the windshield

In life, we have to remember the same lessons. We

is bigger than the rearview.

control what is in front of us. We have to continue to look

24 // November 2022

About The Author

have to be aware of what is behind us but not let it Beth Penny has taught English at Model High School since 1997. There she is also the Yearbook adviser and the Special Education Department Chair.

She and her husband, Chad, have four children.

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

How Do You Pray?

M

by David Huff

any people answer the question how do you

would we not spill out the details to the one who can

pray like this: “I talk to God,” and that is

help us the most—God alone? If we were to approach

exactly what we are called to do. How serious

God and tell Him everything that is in our hearts, how

do you get with God? Do you talk to God as you would the person next to you, or do you talk to God as if you are

much healing could we receive?

In Matthew 18:3-4, we are told to become like little

hiding the ugliness that is inside of you? Exodus 33:11

children and to humble ourselves like a child. Why

says that Moses spoke with the Lord face to face and just

would God want us to be like a child? The answer is

as a man speaks to a friend. Let that sink in for a moment.

that children are honest. They will tell you anything

Can we learn to speak with the Lord face to face? When

and everything, and the faith that a child has is

we go into our prayer closets, do we pour our

unquestionable. Yet that is how we are called

hearts out to the Lord, or do we check a

to talk to God: with child-like faith, where

box off the list—Okay, I prayed today?

we are willing to talk to God about every aspect and every fear inside of

When I was learning to pray, I thought you always had to bow

us. God wants to be that intimate with

down and get on your knees

each of us. When we tell our friends,

in a particular manner or

family, spouses, or whoever we are

fashion. I would hold back on

close to the hidden secret fears or

the things I would say because

things that are hurting us, we feel a

I did not want to say anything

relief come over us. Jesus says, “Come

offensive to the Lord. The truth

to me all ye who are weary and heavy

is God already knows what

laden” (Matthew 11:28). In these

is in our hearts. When we are

words, God is telling us to come

spilling out all the thoughts that

to Him and to release everything

we have to Him, He will take

that is on our minds or hearts.

those thoughts and work with

God loves it when we tell Him everything, and

them. God wants us to talk to Him as if He is our best

He wants us to be so

friend, and He should

comfortable talking to

be. If we are willing

Him that we will tell

to spill out all the

Him everything.

ugly details to our earthly best

About The Author

friend, why

26 // November 2022

My name is David Huff, and I am married to Brittany and together we have five wonderful kids. We attend Rock Bridge Community Church Calhoun where I serve on the prayer team and production team. I am also a senior at Liberty University.

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Gò0dNews Poetry

Thanksgiving Day

by Judy Hood

On this day of Thanksgiving I thank you Lord for all you have been giving I thank you for the air I breathe That gives life in and through me If you had not given your life for me I would cease to exist, you see I know my mom gave me birth But you gave me rebirth To save my soul And make me whole I wish everyone would give their life to you But some people act like they don’t want any part of you I’m glad we have a Thanksgiving Day To thank you for each and every day As I look up into the sky to praise you for being so good to me I honor you, for without you, I don’t know where I would be I know I have made many mistakes along the way But I serve a big God that forgives me and brightens my day So, “Happy Thanksgiving,” Lord, thank you, for all you do Remind us before we judge people to try our foot in their shoe 28 // November 2022

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

Are You Tilting at Windmills?

A

by Dr. Alan Hix

s we approach Thanksgiving, are the day-to-day

challenges of a stressful work environment, difficult family

challenges of life making it hard for you to get in a

situations, unrealized expectations, and a host of other

thankful mood? Let me tell you a story.

things we pursue as we search for meaning and purpose

Don Quixote is a novel written by Miguel Cervantes in

in life, we imagine that this is what brings meaning and

the early 17th century. In the story Alonso Quixano is a low-

purpose to life, and we lose sight of God’s blessings and

ranking member of the Spanish nobility. As he approaches

provisions. And like Alonso, we end up tilting at the

middle age, he imagines a life far more exciting than his

windmills of earthly things that have no eternal value. No

mundane existence. Alonso dons a suit of armor and takes

wonder we feel unfulfilled.

up a lance. In his new imagined life, he is a knight errant in search of adventure and glory.

In his quest for meaning and purpose, Alonso challenges peasants to duels and views inns as castles. In one of the more well-known parts of his story, he comes upon a group of windmills. However, for Alonso, they are giants that need vanquishing, so he charges them with his lance. You can imagine the outcome was not what he intended. Having been unhorsed, he believes that magicians changed windmills into giants to thwart his noble quest.

While we smile and chuckle at Alonso’s passion for a noble quest that exists only in his imagination, I wonder if sometimes we might find ourselves on an imagined quest of our own. I recently read a blog in which the author proposed that many Christians prefer a “comfortable”

However, a thankful heart has a whole new set of

Christianity. He went on to argue that this longing for

priorities. When the Apostle Paul writes to the Colossian

“comfort” can result in believers not being particularly

believers, he gives them—and us—a picture of what a life

excited about heaven or seeing God face to face.

focused on eternal things looks like:

I found myself saying, “Wait a minute; you can’t be

And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which

serious?” However, the author argued that many Church

indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful. Let the

members are too busy setting up their own “heaven on

word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one

earth,” that they don’t have time to think about eternity.

another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual

They busy themselves trying to check all the boxes on what

songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God. And whatever you

they want out of life—impressive career, great marriage,

do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus,

good kids, perfect home, and countless other things. They

giving thanks to God the Father through him (Col. 3:15-17).

find themselves imagining this is what life is all about.

Now are you in the mood for Thanksgiving?

Heaven and an eternity with God seem so distant that the As I sat down to write about Thanksgiving, this blog came to mind. When we focus on getting through the

30 // November 2022

About The Author

issues of the moment take center stage in our lives.

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

H a r v e s t D e a f M i n i s t r i e s P re s e n t s :

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Harvest Deaf Ministries has presented an annual Christmas Drama to the community for twenty-six years. This has become an annual event for many local churches, families, and individuals. We feel honored to have each guest that attends and promise you a wonderful time. We hope you make this a part of your holiday plans this year!

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Gò0dNews for your Taste Buds

Thanksgiving Sweet Potato Casserole Boats

by Jodi Varnado

I

love gathering around a table with good food and good company. The Thanksgiving holiday grants us the perfect opportunity to foster this connection and fellowship. This twist on the classic sweet potato casserole only enhances the experience! This recipe is sure to bring comfort to your friends and family this Thanksgiving dinner. With only eight ingredients and one pan, you can present this sweet side dish and leave your guests impressed. (And don’t worry, they won’t know how easy it was it prepare. Your secret’s safe with me.)

Ingredients • 4 medium-large sweet potatoes or yams • 1 tablespoon of neutral oil

Toppings • 2 tablespoons of butter • ¾ teaspoon of ground cinnamon • 2-3 tablespoons of brown sugar • 1 cup of raw pecans, roughly chopped • 2-3 tablespoons of maple syrup • 1 cup of mini marshmallows

34 // November 2022

Instructions 1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F.

2. Slice the sweet potatoes in half, but leave the skin on. Rub both sides with oil and arrange cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

3. Use a fork to poke holes in the back sides of the potatoes, then bake for 25-35 minutes.

4. Once tender, remove potatoes from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Then carefully flip the potatoes over. Use a fork to gently mash the insides of the potatoes until they are slightly pressed down and the surface is flat.

5. Swipe the top of each potato with butter. Then, shake a light dusting of cinnamon on each potato, followed by brown sugar, pecans, and maple syrup. Top with mini marshmallows.

6. Return to the oven for 8-10 minutes or until the toppings are slightly toasty!

7. Remove from the oven and serve immediately.

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

Is God One Person?

M

by Matt Jensen

onotheism–the belief that there is only one God–has

◦ Is neither the Father nor the Son

always been essential to the Christian faith. The early

◦ Therefore, He is truly the Holy Spirit

church steadfastly defended monotheism but ran into a

difficulty–Jesus is equated with God in the New Testament. In fact, the deity of Jesus was a major reason that people wanted to kill Him (John 5:18; 8:58-59; 10:30-31). Desiring to hold to monotheism, some denied the full deity of Jesus. However, others desired to hold to monotheism and the full deity of Jesus. One solution proposed by men like Sabellius, Noetus, and Praxeas, was to say that the Father and the Son are actually not distinct persons. Like an actor playing different characters, God plays

It’s terribly important to confess that God is one God, but it’s vitally important to confess that this one God eternally exists in three persons, too. Here are a few reasons why: It’s biblical – “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God” (John 1:1). Sabellianism and orthodoxy agree that the Word was God (i.e. the one divine nature). However, Sabellianism can’t explain how the Word was with God. They must say something like “The Word appeared to be with God.” Orthodoxy can say that the

Father and then Son. This became known as

Word was God (divine nature) and with

the heresy of Sabellianism. Many strains

God (person). Sabellianism also can’t

of this error have surfaced over time,

account for passages such as Matthew

but its distinctive feature is that God

3:16-17. Orthodoxy can say that Jesus

is unipersonal. In other words, God

was baptized, the Spirit descended,

is one God existing as one person,

and the Father spoke. Sabellianism

sometimes acting as different

turns the events of this passage into

persons. Against this, orthodoxy

a charade.

confesses one God eternally

God’s worship – This is the

existing in three persons. Here is what

greatest reason. God has revealed

orthodoxy confesses.

Himself as one God eternally existing in

God is one divine nature.

three persons. Therefore, we must worship

• The divine nature is not shared by

Him as one God eternally existing in three

anything in creation.

persons. The most serious theological errors we

• The divine nature is not divided among the

three copies of the same picture).

God eternally exists in three persons.

• The person of the Father: ◦ Is unbegotten – He has His person from none ◦ Is neither the Son nor the Holy Spirit ◦ Therefore, He is truly the Father • The person of the Son: ◦ Is eternally begotten – He has His person from the Father alone ◦ Is neither the Father nor the Holy Spirit ◦ Therefore, He is truly the Son • The person of the Holy Spirit: ◦ Is eternally proceeding – He has His person from the Father and the Son

36 // November 2022

unipersonal God of Islam, but the blessed Trinity in unity and unity in Trinity.

Our salvation and communion with God – Was it really the Son who came to save us? Was it really the Father who gave a people to His Son? Is it really the Holy Spirit who applies Christ’s redemptive work? Sabellianism must say, “No.” Can we really believe in Jesus (John 6:29)? Can we really pray to our Father in heaven (Matthew 6:9)? Can we really walk by the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:16)? Sabellianism must again say, “No.” If Sabellianism is true, our salvation and communion with God cannot be Trinitarian. We would be saved and commune with a God who is one person having multiple personalities. Thankfully, that is not the God who reveals Himself to us in the Bible. The one true God eternally exists in three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

About The Author

persons (like three pieces of the same pie).

• The divine nature is not cloned three times (like

can possibly make concern God. He is not the

Matt Jensen is a missionary from Reformation Baptist Church in Dalton, Georgia. He and his wife, Danielle, are preparing to move to Thailand soon with their son, Judah.

They are also anticipating the birth of another son, Gabriel.

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

While He Was Thinking

H

by Sandra Gilmore

ave you been following this series? Check each month as

dream. This messenger delivered stout answers to Joseph’s

we explore often-overlooked connections to Christmas

sticky questions.

and wind our way back to this sacred event.

His mind was anywhere but there. What was he going to do?

How could he get out of this pickle?

He was a craftsman. Years of working with resistant

Matthew 1:20 states, “But while he thought on these things, behold an angel appeared unto him in a dream.” The angel assured Joseph about following through with his marriage to Mary, even affirming the child was indeed the Son of God.

materials had taught him a few things. He envisioned a use for a material that the material couldn’t even see for itself. He shaped the stone. He carved the wood. He avoided the delicate areas that could crack later, relying on the strength around it to achieve the goal, which was to transition something typically left alone or behind into something that would serve, something that would become a part of daily life. His work would bear his mark. His design and years of training, planning, working, and re-working would all be reflected in the craftsmanship of the final product.

Still, his day was ordinary. To a casual onlooker, his day would have seemed routine, no fuss, nothing unusual, until

The original language gives us insight into Joseph’s

that evening. During the day, his hands were busy with the

ponderings. This verb can be translated ponder, deliberate,

wood. He was carving, pounding, shaving, clearing shavings,

and revolve in the mind. Another passage in the book of Acts

staining, expertly crafting a resistant material into what he

describes, “While Peter thought on the vision, the Spirit said

envisioned it to be. After years of honing his trade, his hands

unto him…” These two examples highlight the promise in

could maneuver without his mind engaged. And on that day,

Isaiah 26:3: “You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is

his thoughts took the focus while his craftsmanship ebbed out

stayed on you.”

on autopilot.

Do you ever ponder with your mind stayed on the Lord?

Joseph had questions, sticky questions directed by society’s

Does your heart yield to The Master Craftsman? Or do you

mores and religious considerations. He just couldn’t see a way

worry with your mind focused on other things with a heart

out or a way in, for that matter. He was stuck with an urgent

resistant and stiff? With our minds stayed on the Lord, we can

desire to run. He was running with a sincere desire to stay

invite the Holy Spirit to give us insight, answers, and direction.

committed. What should he do? Everyone would know the baby

He brings peace. When we worry, we give the enemy of our

wasn’t his. But he didn’t do anything wrong. And this girl genuinely

souls an invitation to weigh us down, confuse us, or stagnate

believed God gave her this baby!

us. As we enter this season of thanksgiving soon followed by Christmas, the Lord is indeed our Immanuel, God with us. We

immalleable material. The Lord expertly crafted the heart of a

can ponder, wonder, and even question with renewed hope

man who could have possibly been left behind by history into a

and peace!

role that would enter daily life for centuries to come. According to Matthew Chapter 1, the Lord sent an angel to Joseph in a

38 // November 2022

About The Author

That evening The Master Craftsman worked with an

Sandra Gilmore serves the Lord as wife, mom, and encourager, mostly through writing and speaking, occasionally through cooking, rarely through anything athletic and only because of the mercy and grace of Jesus. You can reach her by email: tandsgilmore@yahoo.com or her website: www.sandragilmore.org

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

Rejoice In Your Harvest

F

by Stephanie Daniels

armers are intentional about the seed they sow and

to give monetary gifts to your local churches, charities, or

the harvest they reap. They don’t plant apple seeds

alms, giving wherever you see a need.

and expect cabbage. They put a specific seed in the

Everything we do is a seed sown. “Do not be deceived,

ground and patiently wait for harvest season. They nurture

God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will

and water the seed, then at the right time, a harvest grows

also reap” (Galatians 6:7). One of the wisest things we

up out of the fertile soil. Many people don’t realize how

can do is sow good seeds. Sowing seeds of faith into the

much our lives are like farming. Seed time and harvest time

lives of others not only blesses them but it impacts us as

are a part of life. We sow seeds daily. The harvest we receive

well. Psalms 107:37 reminds us, “They sowed fields and

is based on what was sown.

planted vineyards that yielded a fruitful harvest.” We can ensure a good crop of favor and blessings in our lives by simply being intentional about what we say, do, and think. The word of God says, “As a man thinks so is he” (Proverbs 23:7).

When we continuously think negative thoughts, it is just a matter of time before we speak negative things, which can result in negative actions. Negative thoughts, words, and actions can produce bad fruit in your life. Speak life over yourself and others, and meditate on the word of God to help keep your thoughts pure. These are just some of the things that can help

As we reflect on our lives over the course of the

produce a good harvest in your life.

year, we can anticipate a harvest of all we have done.

So, whether you have sown time, money, shared your

The greatest harvest of all is a harvest of souls into the

faith or planted a garden, expect God to give you a bountiful

kingdom of God. Jesus sowed His life so that anyone

harvest. The apostle Paul explains that our righteousness

who calls on His name shall be saved. We can play a part

comes from God, and He is faithful to provide seed to

in that wonderful harvest by simply sharing our faith.

the sower. “Now He who supplies seed to the sower and

Sowing seeds of faith can be one of the most rewarding

bread for food will also supply and increase your store of

things a person can do in their lifetime. Matthew 9:37-38

seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness”

tells us, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few.

(2 Corinthians 9:10). It is never too late to sow seed with

Therefore, pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send

intention and purpose. In this harvest season, expect God’s

out laborers into his harvest.” Another way to sow seed is

goodness and mercy to overtake you.

40 // November 2022

Gò0dNews

Christian Magazine

Mission Statement:

W

Writer Guidelines:

e believe when people are equipped,

Who: Our writers range from pastors, professors, and

motivated, and passionately engaged in

professional writers to stay at home moms and dads,

living out their faith in Jesus Christ they

business professionals, and others who have a desire to

have the potential to be world changers.

Our mission is to bring people into a dynamic

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

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

goodnewscm.com Phone: 423.478.6484

reach out to people through words of encouragement.

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

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

Gò0dNews for Everyone

Standing Firm in The Last Days

S

by Kenneth E. Ware

tand up. Now, sit down. Stand up again. Now, sit down

3. Pursue—If the lovers of Jesus Christ desire to grow

again. Now, stand up and sit down at the same time.

stronger, then a pursuit of God’s Word must become top

Impossible right? Absolutely. You cannot stand and sit

priority. Daily Bible reading enhances one’s knowledge of

simultaneously. You can only do one or the other. Spiritually,

God, spiritual growth, and adds strength. The psalter said,

Christians have the same choices in life. Faced with many moral

“Strengthen me according to Your Word” (Psa. 119:28).

challenges, social injustices, demonic attacks, and political

In fact, it was our Lord Himself who cited the words of

issues, believers must not compromise their faith in Jesus

Moses, “Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every

Christ. The Apostle Paul exhorted his fellow saints in Ephesus

word that proceeds out of the mouth of God” (Matt. 4:4).

to stand firm amidst a pagan, Roman influenced society.

Clearly, we too, are no different. We are faced with similar challenges in our generation. Laid out for us in the last chapter of Ephesians is the key to How to Stand Firm in the Last Days.

I. Stay Strong in the Lord (Eph. 6:10-11) a) Be Strong in the Person of Christ (v. 10) Believers are to keep growing in their strength in Christ.

In order to do so, Jesus must not only be your Savior, He must also be your Lord. He must sit upon the throne of your heart to rule and reign as both Lord and King of your life. Many verses in the Bible command the people of God to be strong. For example, at least four times in the book of Joshua do we read,

II. Stand Still in the Lord (Eph. 6:12-17)

“Be strong and courageous…” (Josh. 1:6-7,9,18). King David

c) The Spiritual Warfare (vv. 12-13)

exhorts, “Wait for the Lord, be strong…” (Psa. 27:14). Again, the

Adversaries. At the moment of salvation, believers were

Minor Prophet Zechariah admonished his contemporaries to

immediately thrust into spiritual warfare. There are several

“Let your hands be strong, you who are listening to the world

adversaries that combat the children of God on a daily basis.

in these days…” (Zech. 8:9).

It is important to understand that, “we wrestle not against

b) Be Strong in the Power of Christ (v. 10b-11)

flesh and blood” as clearly stated by Paul. So then, what

There are multiple ways to accomplish this great task. For

exactly are we struggling against? Answer, the demonic

starts, we will observe three ways to reach this goal of being

hosts of Satan influenced in human governments of the

strong in the power of the Lord.

world (Rulers, Powers, World Forces of Darkness, Spiritual

1. Prayer—Five times in verses 18-19 is the term “pray,”

Forces of Wickedness).

“prayer” or “petition” referenced. The more you pray,

d) The Spiritual Wardrobe (vv. 14-17)

the stronger you will become. The less you pray, the

Armor. The armor of a Roman soldier was nothing short

weaker you get. Prayer protects you from yielding to the

of intimidating splendor. In God’s economy, like the Roman

strategies of Satan. Prayer guards your heart and mind

Empire, believers are enlisted as soldiers of war. The saints of

with peace (Phil. 4:6ff). Prayer is essential to spiritual

God must both “put on” (v. 11) and “take up” (v.13) the full

victory in your life.

armor of God. After all, the Lord Jesus Christ is the Armor

2. Praise—Prayer, when combined with praise, equals power. King David prayed, “I love you, Lord, my

believers must put on for spiritual victory over the flesh and the adversaries of this world (Rom. 13:14).

strength and my song…” (Ex. 15:2). Ezra encouraged the sons of Israel, saying, “Do not be grieved, for the joy of the Lord is your strength” (Neh. 8:10).

42 // November 2022

About The Author

strength” (Psa. 18:1-2). Moses wrote, “The Lord is my Kenneth E. Ware, M.M., M.A.B.S., M. Div. is a husband, father, pastor of New Scholar Avenue Baptist Church, and graduate of Temple Baptist Seminary. Pastor Ware is also a Christian writer and an Expository Bible Teacher at Samford University Ministry Training Institute in Chattanooga, Tennessee.

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