Gò0dNews
CATOOSA & WALKER
About Us
WRITERS
Brent Goodge
Brent Madaris
Brian Johnson
David Huff
David Voyles
Jade Morgan
Judy Hood
Kristen West
Mandy Harmon
Paul McGuire
Rick Hughes
Sandra Gilmore
Stephanie Daniels
SALES
Matthew Ruckman
423-503-1410
Email: goodnewstn@gmail.com
DESIGN
Caleb Prytherch
Email: art.goodnews@gmail.com
PHOTOGRAPHER
Paula Knipp
423-310-4207
GoodNews Christian Magazine Catoosa
EDITOR/ARTICLE COORDINATOR
Sandra Gilmore
Email: articles.goodnews@gmail.com
PUBLISHER
Matthew and Bethany Ruckman
Cell: 423-503-1410
E-mail: goodnewstn@gmail.com
OFFICE
423-790-5378
WEBSITE goodnewscm.com issuu.com/catoosaga
Hello Friends,
We want to take a moment to tell you who we are and what we are about. Our names are Matt and Bethany Ruckman and we have six beautiful children, Brendon, Kailey, Andrew, Leah Jean, Emma, and Cooper. We live in Cleveland, Tennessee, and love what this town has to offer! We have started GoodNews Christian Magazine because we feel that when God, family, and community are combined, lives will be changed.
GoodNews Christian Magazine is a complimentary, Christian lifestyle publication. You can find us throughout the community in retail establishments, churches, restaurants, and more. Our magazine opens the door for Christians to work together to grow and strengthen our community through relevant editorial and effective advertising.
GoodNews Christian Magazine is written by men and women in the community who love and serve the Lord. Our hearts are open and willing to be used by God to reach out to the community to spread the GoodNews!
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.
Practical Keys to Contentment
by Brent Madaris
Did you know that contentment is a biblical life-goal?
See *1 Timothy 6:6, “But godliness with contentment is great gain.”
Godliness (in its practical aspect) is making God the practical priority of your life by consistently practicing principles that draw you closer to Him and allow Him to manifest Himself through you. Contentment is a state of mind in which no aid or support is needed. It is a mind that is satisfied, rested, and at peace with its lot in life. Fundamentally, contentment is a condition of the heart. Godliness with contentment is a source of “great gain.”
For all of us, men and women, the Bible states in 1 Timothy 6:7–8 7, “For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.” It is not complex. Contentment is not based on what you have, how much you have, or how much you do. Why should godliness with contentment be a primary life goal? Shouldn’t education, material success, and marital happiness be paramount? While none of these goals are inherently wrong, they are secondary to godliness and contentment. Secondary goals are legitimate as long as they are accompanied by godliness and contentment.
Paul’s argument for godliness and contentment centers upon the fundamental equality of mankind and the temporary nature of physical things. At birth, everyone arrives completely dependent upon the care and resources of another. At death, every physical advantage disappears. Death is the great equalizer. The temporary enjoyment of affluence ceases forever at death.
Because all men are equal at the moment of death, it only makes sense to live life satisfied with what you have. Since basic necessities (food and clothing) sustain life, we should be satisfied when our basic needs are met. We should view everything beyond basic necessities as the richest of blessings!
Rather than concentrating on the accumulation of physical possessions, Christians should focus on their relationship with Christ and be content with their current lot in life. It is not wrong to have secondary goals: career
advancement, purchasing a home, etc. as long as godliness and contentment marks every step of the way. It is wrong to have basic necessities met (and a lot more) and to live in continual dissatisfaction and covetousness.
Let me give you some practical keys to contentment:
• Keep your expectations low, and life will have many pleasant surprises.
• See the abundance all around you.
• Develop a grateful/thankful heart.
• Be satisfied in the Lord and the blessings He has given.
• Obey God’s Word/follow its teachings in your daily life.
• Discipline yourself to be satisfied with exactly what you have at this very moment.
• Place your entire existence (past/present/future) in his care.
• Discover the will of God for your life. This alone solves many problems and simplifies many choices.
• Focus on the promise of the Lord’s abiding presence (He will guide you and satisfy you Himself!)
“Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee” (Hebrews 13:5).
*All Scriptures KJV.
Brent Madaris is the pastor of New Haven Baptist Church. He is also a Family Nurse Practitioner. He has a Master of Divinity from Crown Seminary and is currently engaging Doctoral studies at Pensacola Theological Seminary.
Gò0 dNews for Everyone What Are You Full Of?
by Paul McGuire
Every man is usually full of himself: looks, appearance (clothing), opinions, what he thinks others think of him, and so on and so on.
God doesn't care for those things. Of course, He knows of them but He understands that those things are of the flesh, the natural man, and the natural life.
The Lord shares this message: But I have called you, I have redeemed you, not for that natural life to grow better and better. True, some things will get better when a person comes to Me and is rescued by redemption. But life will still stink, sometimes! I'm
The Lord came in Jesus to give remedy for that issue once and for all.
He did not come for nothing. This was no whim! For, from all eternity, this great pivotal act has been His plan and Jesus' purpose. This is why there is a Jesus: that God Himself might in His own way and by His own standards, pay the unpayable price, and redeem His own creation back to Himself.
John 3:16 KJV tells us, “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”
not fixing everything in the world so you can live a life of ease, a life free of trouble. That has nothing to do with being My servant.
Jesus lived life as it actually was with stinky conditions, smelly people, no running water, and no plumbing. People rejected His offer of love and redemption. There was violence and brutality dispensed by Rome. It was brutal.
We hear some of this in Isaiah 53:3 KJV, “He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief: and we hid as it were our faces from him; he was despised, and we esteemed him not.”
But Jesus didn't come to end that. There is a worse thing than no nail clippers: There is dying without knowing Him!
Compared to this purpose, God cares nothing for this earth. He can – He will – make another, perfect, unpolluted by sin with no devil, no evil, no darkness. He could create an earth with only God on the throne. You will love it. It is what the human heart cries out for.
Phooey on expensive vehicles, exotic living conditions, and expensive stuff! There is so much better to be had! In His eternal Kingdom...well, you'll just have to wait and see, my child. But, boy! It's good.
Enjoy this life as you will. Remember that it is fragile and fleeting. Especially, remember what God holds for those who love Him exceeds your imagination by “light-years”. But for any man to experience even a small portion of this treasure-land, he and she must know the Lord, must come to the Lord. Those who know Him, tell them of Him. He'll do the other part.
Can you do this for Him? You will, won't you? The Lord has shown and proven His love for you.
And prove God on this: He'll make the way – every time!
Paul McGuire has been born again for over 60 years, and has pursued to hear God’s voice through all those years. He and his wife Teresa of over 50 years are active at Living Word Church in Cleveland, Tennessee. They have two children and five grandchildren.
"It was my first time ever going to a chiropractor and let me tell you it was amazing. I went for the $29.00 new patient visit that included consultation, exam, and adjustment. I can't believe I waited 53 years to finally do this. Needless to say, I joined the wellness plan membership that is only $69.00 a month for four visits a month. I will definitely be enjoying that! Dr. D was amazing and funny, he made me feel very comfortable and relaxed. I was really nervous going into the office, but that was gone after him explaining everything to me." —Lisa T
NFinancial Factors for This Fall
Money Matters
Rick Hughes with
Driven by a passion to educate, inform and prepare future retirees, Mr. Hughes founded Hughes Retirement Group in 2007. His main interest is helping his clients in reducing their taxes.
ovember is a monumental month for us. Election day is November 5th, which will yield us a new president. The Feds will meet again November 6th – 7th, which could have impacts to the economy and rates, and it marks the mid-way point of the 4th quarter of 2024. Ironically enough, it is also a time for us to celebrate Thanksgiving, a time whose original purpose was intended to celebrate gratitude and unity. There has been much division amongst our country during this election year. As we move forward with our newly elected president, it seems a good time to remind ourselves of how post-election developments can directly impact your retirement planning and financial security.
Investment portfolio volatility is most likely the first thing to come to mind as these fluctuations are the easiest way to see an impact to your retirement plans. These, however, are usually short-term effects of the election and shouldn’t be a factor that we use in making long-term planning decisions or account changes. What follows in the months after the election will be what needs to be monitored and evaluated with your financial advisor.
Changes to tax policy will be one of the biggest factors to actively monitor and discuss with your advisor. Higher tax brackets will mean lower net income. Lower net income will reduce spending, which could impact various economic areas. Lower tax brackets would be viewed to have the opposite effect. Changes to capital gains tax could cause people to try and sell assets before a higher rate goes into effect, which would have a short-term impact on stock markets and stock pricing. Any of these types of changes would have a direct impact on how and when you withdraw money from your retirement assets. If you are
currently saving for retirement, it could also impact how much you can continue to save towards retirement.
Social Security and Medicare policy changes also have a substantial impact on retirement planning. Changes that could be made to eligibility benefits and how these programs are funded could directly impact every current retiree and everyone nearing retirement and when they may be able to retire. These programs and their funding have a direct correlation with the national deficit so how the new president and controlling party address this will have to be closely monitored to determine its effects on retirement.
With any election period, the full impact of these policy changes will depend on the specifics of the legislation, how effectively they are implemented, and the broader economic conditions at the time. Given these potential impacts, it's important for individuals to regularly review and adjust their retirement plans in response to political and economic changes, ensuring they remain aligned with their financial goals. Diversification, staying informed about policy changes, and consulting with your financial advisor can help navigate these uncertainties effectively.
Reach out to our office today to begin drawing up your Retirement Playbook so that Hughes Retirement Group can begin developing your game plan and coaching you through your retirement season.
In the spirit of Thanksgiving month, we would like you to join us at Hughes Retirement Group in continuous prayer for those affected by recent hurricanes. It will fade from the news with all the things happening in this world but we, as a community, can still commit to coming together to pray for and help provide what is needed for our neighbors to begin to heal from such tragedy and devastation.
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for Men Being Grateful
by David Huff
How grateful are we to God who gives us life every day? Do we offer Him praises of thanksgiving or do we complain because we do not have the things we want? What if the things we wanted are the very same things that would drive us farther away from God?
and comes down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning.”
Many times, we come to God with petitions of our wants and needs and we fail to thank Him for the things we have. If you struggle for things to be thankful for, start small with the basic things that you would not normally think of. Thank God for the breath in your lungs and the life in your body. Thank God for the food on your table no matter how little or much it may be. Thank God for the job you have, yes even that one that you may not like. There are so many things that we can thank God for including the trials in our lives. It is through trials that we learn to depend deeper upon God. It is through the trials that we grow as a more disciplined Christian. Also, what may seem like a trial could very well be a sweater that is meant for our protection. When we honor God with the little and we become more thankful God opens our eyes more to His blessings.
As a child, I remember receiving a sweater for Christmas. A sweater, really? Come on! I wanted a toy car or truck. Something that I could actually have fun with. A sweater would only keep me warm and protect me from the outside weather. That’s not something you can have fun with, right? Oh, wait a second, it kept me warm and protected me from the outside weather. How many times do we approach God with this very same scenario? It may not be a sweater but a boat, jet ski, or new car you want. You know, something to have fun with, and yet God gives us something else.
Could it be that our perspectives are in the wrong place? *Psalm 107:1 says “Oh, give thanks to the Lord, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever.” James 1:17 says “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above
In this season, begin to practice being more thankful and in it, you will see a blessing develop that words cannot express. In the storm and in the trials, God is still God and He is still on His throne. As we become more thankful, we begin to see the beauty of God all around us in His beautiful creation.
*All Scriptures quoted from NKJV.
David Huff and his wife, Brittany, have five wonderful kids. Their family attends Rock Bridge Community Church Calhoun where David serves on the production team. David is a graduate of Liberty University and will be starting his master’s degree in January 2025.
Rise And Shine
by Mandy Harmon
Here's the deal: don’t quit! If you can, just keep rising every morning, you will get to see God shining through. You see, I’ve struggled with several addictions for over 29 years. I was molested when I was young, and before I realized it, I had been in abusive/ codependent relationships through the years. My life was nearly taken when I was mistakenly shot while I was pregnant! When the devil wanted me to quit, wanted me to throw in the towel, I didn’t quit. I rose up! My desire is that God would take my mess and make it His message.
Here are some of the Bible verses that became dear to me through my recovery:
Psalms 34:4 TPT
“Listen to my testimony I cried to God in my distress and He answered me. He freed me from all my fears. gaze upon Him, join your life with His, and joy will come. your faces will glisten with glory. you’ll never wear that shameface again. when I had nothing desperate and defeated. I cried out to the lord and he heard me, bringing his miracle deliverance when I needed it most.”
Psalms 86:15
“My friend, when people give up on you, and even when you give up on yourself, I want to assure you that God has not given up on you. He sent His son Jesus Christ to die on the cross for your sins and this God of grace will never give up on you”
Jeremiah 29:11 NIV
“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you plans to give you hope and a future”
Isaiah 40:31 KJV
“but they that wait upon the lord will renew their strength they shall mount up with wings as eagles they shall run and not be weary and they shall walk and not faint.”
Deuteronomy 30:3 The Message
“God your God will restore everything you lost. He’ll have compassion on you. He’ll come back and pick up the pieces from all the places where you were scattered.”
Ezra 10:4
“Rise up, take courage, and do it.”
On May 14, 2007, in Floyd County Jail, I gave my whole heart and life to my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. I have to thank God for my parents who raised me in church because I knew who to turn to. Proverbs 22:6 says “Train up a child in the way he should go and when he is old he will not depart from it.” I was in jail for 91 days. That’s a lot of time for me to reflect on my life and what I had done to my family. You know though, I had found peace. It was a peace I had never known before. The hole inside of me had been filled with the Holy Spirit and my life could finally begin.
Psalm 86:15 says “My friend, when people give up on you, and even when you give up on yourself, I want to assure you that God has not given up on you. He sent His son Jesus Christ to die on the cross for your sins and this God of grace will never give up on you.”
Even through the recovery process, our family faced significant loss and pain with miscarriages, the passing of dear loved ones, as well as disappointments and setbacks.
I am learning each and every day how to face difficulties by relying on the Lord and standing on His word. I will hold my head up high and straighten my crown because I am a child of the King who is not moved by this world for my God goes before me. I do not fear because I am His! So don’t quit. Keep rising and shining!
Mandy Harmon declares, “Most importantly I am
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
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
Memorial
706-338-7176
Seventh-Day Adventist Battlefield Community SDA Church 96 Hillman Lane
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
Walker County Church Directory
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
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.
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
Power of Life LaFayette Church 798 W Main St LaFayette, GA 423-596-703430728
River of Life Church 807 W. Maqin St. LaFayette, GA 423-596-703430728
The Haven - LaFayette 415 Chestnut St. LaFayette, GA 706-996-815030728
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
Gò0 dNews for Relationships Unflappable
by Jade Morgan
Iteach a high school reading class and one of our terms is “conflict.” The literary definition of conflict is: A struggle between two opposing forces, usually the protagonist and antagonist. There are different kinds of conflict, but the two most common are internal and external. We experience conflict on a daily basis. We have struggles with ourselves and in our own minds. We are involved in strife or competition with others. We even face contention in various forms of social media in which we choose to participate. Sure, most of these clashes are not intentional or even desired, but even so, they occur.
Lately, I have been thinking about all of the animosity and tension going on in our country, but really, do we truly want everyone to think exactly the same, or like we do? Do we want everyone to have the same opinions? Do we want everyone to act equally? I don’t. How boring would life be? Moreover, how boring would we be? There would be nothing to challenge us or to strive for. We would have no surprises in life. Some would argue that we would have unity, but would we really? As much as most people hate to admit it, we need one another. We cannot grow or be sharpened with a one tract mind that never is tested, stimulated, or asserted.
So, again, conflict is inevitable and even necessary at times. I read recently that there is no such thing as an isolated incident in life. Each person involved is coming into the dilemma with our own backgrounds and life experiences, plus a few battle scars and wounds. We are treating said
situation as an isolated incident, but there is no way it can be handled as such. Old feelings and emotions start to pop up that have absolutely nothing to do with the present circumstances, but once we feel offended, man, those previous hurts are exposed in a hurry. I am totally guilty of this as well.
Matthew 18:15-17 AMPC says:
“If your brother wrongs you, go and show him his fault, between you and him privately. If he listens to you, you have won back your brother. But if he does not listen, take along with you one or two others, so that every word may be confirmed and upheld by the testimony of two or three witnesses. If he pays no attention to them [refusing to listen and obey], tell it to the church.”
I want to seek out peace and harmony. I truly believe it is a dream for a majority of the population. However, have we ever seen it? Do we even know what it will be like? Is this even possible? Probably not. There will always be someone who does not like you. There will always be someone that you annoy just by being you. It is human nature. However, we can fight for inner peace, contentment, and harmony. We cannot control others, but we can control ourselves, our reactions, and our emotions. We can be set apart and let others see that we are unflappable and that, contrary to popular belief, it is possible to not get offended by every single thing.
I read a quote from Alejandra Lugunes recently that put it so well: “Be a woman other women can trust. Have the courage to tell another woman directly when she has offended, hurt, or disappointed you. Successful women have a loyal tribe of loyal and honest women behind them. Not haters. Not backstabbers or women who whisper behind their back. Be a woman who lifts other women.”
Of course, this does not apply solely to women, men are included too. Let’s care enough to make ourselves better, as well as others in the process. Have the hard conversation. It is worth it, to you and them.
Jade is the connect & serve director at Public Church. She is a 2008 graduate of Lee University with a degree in Special Education. Jade Morgan’s focus is helping people find their place and purpose in Jesus’ church. A native of Cleveland, Tennessee, she enjoys traveling the world on missions.
Leadership Catoosa’s 2024-2025 Community Service Project: Help A Student Smile
What brightens the world in an instant? The smile of a young person. During the senior year of high school, many smiles are recorded for years to come: senior portraits, job and internship interviews, and college applications, just to name a few. These opportunities to smile have given Leadership Catoosa an opportunity to make those smiles even better! This year’s Leadership Catoosa class is making a difference in the lives of this community’s high school seniors, aiming to change the way these young people see the world and how the world sees them.
Leadership Catoosa, a program dedicated to cultivating leaders within the community, has chosen a compassionate and impactful community service project for its 2024-2025 class. The project centers around providing vital dental care to a group of seniors in Catoosa County Public Schools. Every year, around 30-35 seniors receive help from the school system and its partners making sure students have
their birth certificates, college aid forms filled out, interview clothes, eye exams, and dental exams. As each new senior class comes through, the need for more comprehensive dental care beyond just cleanings has become increasingly clear and raising money to provide these services has become more difficult. The Leadership Catoosa service project aims to ensure that these students receive dental checkups and any necessary treatments before they graduate in May 2025.
As the project progresses, Leadership Catoosa plans to define “homeless, unaccompanied students” as it pertains to Catoosa County Public Schools, using the school system's criteria. This will ensure the initiative serves the students who are most in need, following the guidelines already in place for identifying vulnerable populations.
With a clear mission, this Leadership Catoosa class aims to raise the funds necessary to support approximately 30 to 35 high school seniors identified as homeless and
unaccompanied within the school system. The estimated cost of providing comprehensive dental care for these students is expected to range between $10,000 and $15,000.
Grateful Grins
For many students, particularly those classified as homeless and unaccompanied, accessing dental care is a significant challenge. While school systems and local organizations offer a variety of services, dental care is often unattainable due to financial constraints or the absence of parents/guardians. Dental checkups and treatments can be costly, especially for those without insurance or stable housing. Yet, proper dental health is critical to overall wellbeing, and untreated dental issues can lead to serious health problems. By addressing this need with the help of Catoosa County School Social Workers, Leadership Catoosa aims to offer these students not only a better quality of life but also the confidence to step into the next phase of their lives.
The project’s impact will go far beyond just the students receiving care. It’s about empowering these young people, giving them the confidence to smile as they step across the stage at graduation and enter the next chapter of their lives. For many, this dental care could be a stepping stone toward better job prospects or simply a healthier future.
Additionally, the Leadership Catoosa project shines a light on a larger issue within the community: the challenges homeless students face, not just academically but in terms of their overall health and well-being. By focusing on this project, the class is helping to raise awareness of the broader needs of homeless students in Catoosa County, potentially spurring further initiatives to support them.
Leading While Serving
This community service project exemplifies the core values of Leadership Catoosa: teamwork, leadership, and a deep commitment to serving others. Through their combined efforts, the class of 2024-2025 hopes to create lasting change, not just for these students but for the Catoosa community as a whole.
Leadership Catoosa’s 2024-2025 class is currently working on various ways to raise the necessary funds. While specifics are still in development, the class is considering a mix of grassroots fundraising, outreach to local businesses and organizations, and possibly larger community events to reach their goal of $10,000 to $15,000. The funds raised will be used to cover the full spectrum of dental care—from
routine checkups to more complex procedures like fillings, extractions, etc, as the dental care providers deem necessary. This ambitious fundraising target highlights the urgency and importance of the project. Each dollar raised will directly contribute to ensuring these seniors have access to critical healthcare services before they embark on their postgraduation journeys.
This isn’t just a need for this year’s homeless, unaccompanied high school seniors—it’s an issue that could easily be overlooked again after Leadership Catoosa’s service project ends. The Leadership Catoosa class urges local businesses and dentists to seize this opportunity to create lasting, positive change for the rising young adults in our community for years to come by donating every year.
The coming months will be critical as Leadership Catoosa finalizes its plans and begins to implement its fundraising strategies. One thing is already certain: the class’s commitment to making a meaningful impact on the lives of homeless seniors in this community by promoting the potential of each of these students.
Catoosa County Chamber President Amy Jackson sums up this effort, ˝Each young person carries the ability to make a difference in their community as they mature and train for careers and vocations. Leadership Catoosa is pleased to seize this particular opportunity to make a difference in their lives at this pivotal time. If you would like to be a part of this effort to make these students‘ senior year great, please call the Catoosa Chamber at 706-965-5201.˝
Gratitude
by Brian Johnson
The Bible is an amazing book! Since you’re reading this, you probably agree. It has so much to say about history and, at the same time, helps us spiritually, gives us truth and the ability to spend eternity with God along with showing us how to live now.
It’s also scientifically true. When I read *I Corinthians 12, as Paul compares the Church to the physical body, it makes me wonder if he got that thought from Luke. Luke accompanied Paul on his journeys. Since Luke was a doctor,
fascinating statement because of the difference in technology and knowledge we have today versus what he had then. It speaks to the fact that God inspired those words.
Our white blood cells comprise our immune system and they’re produced in bone marrow. There are several different types of white blood cells. Specific ones designed to fight bacteria, viruses, parasites, fungi, allergies, and even cancer!
I imagine they may have had conversations about how the body works. Could that have been why Paul told Timothy to “use a little wine” for his “stomach’s sake” and “often infirmities” (I Tim. 5:23)? Did he learn this medicinal cure from Luke? The Bible doesn’t tell us about that instance, but there are some things about the body that we can see clearly in the Bible.
God instructs us to be content. Why? One reason is that it keeps us physically healthy. Proverbs 3:7-8 says, “Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil. It shall be health to thy navel, and marrow to thy bones.” Solomon lets us know if we rely on the wisdom of God’s word instead of what makes sense to us, it keeps us healthy. He specifically says it will be marrow to our bones, a
A study called psychoneuroimmunology began in 1975. It has to do with the effect of the mind on health and resistance to disease. Based on this study, we know that when we’re happy, our immune system functions better. Conversely speaking, when we’re sad or anxious, its function is crippled. This is why it’s so important to have gratitude, to be thankful and content.
Philippians 4:6 says “Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.” Don’t be full of care about anything. That can be difficult but when we thank God for what we have in our prayers, it reminds us that He is still blessing us. This reminder helps maintain an attitude of gratitude which, in turn, keeps us healthy.
Proverbs 17:22 says “A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones.” The medicine is in us and functions the way God intended when we’re happy and trusting Him but it does not when we’re focused on what we don’t have and are unthankful. Appreciate what you have. Don’t focus on the negative. Focusing on the blessings God has given us makes an attitude of gratitude easy to maintain. It’ll also keep you healthy!
*All Scriptures quoted from KJV.
Brian Edward Johnson is a deacon at his church, nurse and author of Behaving Wisely, One Man’s Journey from Betrayal to Blessing. He longs for Christians to trust God for every aspect of their lives.
dNews for Parents From Care to Compassion
by Stephanie Daniels
November 18, 2024 is National Adoption Day. This is especially significant because November is National Adoption Month bringing focus to the foster care system and the need for adoptive families.
God has recently placed a concern for the foster care system within my heart. I’ve been deeply moved by the heart-wrenching stories of children who, while in foster care, endure unimaginable abuse and neglect. It is disheartening to hear that some children are provided with subpar food while they watch the families around them enjoy healthy meals. This should never happen. It is my firm belief that we need to implement a higher level of inspections and thorough screenings to ensure that these children are being properly cared for.
Many of these children age out of the system, only to find themselves struggling to secure employment and housing. I implore each one of you reading this article to take a moment to consider what you can do to support the foster care system. I understand that not everyone can or should become a foster parent, but there are various ways you can make a difference. You may be inspired to make donations to your local foster care center or volunteer your time to guide and encourage these youngsters. Contact your local program to discover ways to be a blessing. Hebrews 10:24 reminds us to consider one another to stir up love and good works.
Your support may be rooted in heartfelt prayers. We must not underestimate the profound impact that prayer can have on the lives of these youngsters. Let us step forward in faith, knowing that our investment in these young lives will echo through eternity.
Personally, I am collaborating with my employer to explore ways in which we can help foster children in our community develop their skills in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). One thing I am certain I can contribute is my ability to motivate and inspire these youth. Over the years, I’ve accumulated valuable life lessons that I can share. Sometimes, just a word of encouragement and guidance can lead a young person toward employment opportunities that they might not have considered before, such as starting with an entrylevel position at an apartment community. This could be
a stepping stone to becoming a leasing consultant or a maintenance worker, paving the way for them to become an apartment manager and secure discounted housing. It is essential that we broaden their horizons beyond seeing themselves only in fast-food jobs; there are numerous entrylevel opportunities that can offer more promising prospects.
Investing in the lives of young people is not only rewarding but a wise investment to ensure the future and stability of our country. We need foster parents who not only look after the physical and emotional needs of our
youth but who also care for the spiritual needs. The Word tells us that “Iron sharpens Iron” (see Proverbs 27:17) Being a Christian foster parent gives you an opportunity to instill godly principles into youth and to create a discipline of church attendance and Bible reading in the life of a child who will grow up to make a difference.
If you are currently a foster parent or involved in any way in the foster care system, please take a bow and I hope you can hear my applause! You are truly helping our communities in more ways than can be counted. Your investment in these children and youth is making a significant impact now and will have a ripple effect for years and generations to come.
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Being Thankful: A Special Gift
Today, let's talk about something very special: being thankful. Being thankful means showing gratitude for the good things we have. It’s like saying "thank you" with a happy heart. Let’s explore why being thankful is important and what the Bible says about it.
What Does the Bible Say?
The Bible has many verses that teach us about thankfulness. *Here are a few to think about:
“In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you” (1 Thessalonians 5:18).
“O give thanks unto the Lord; for he is good; for his mercy endureth for ever” (1 Chronicles 16:34).
“And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful” (Colossians 3:15).
These verses remind us that God wants us to be thankful in every situation. When we say thank you, we are not only polite, but we also make God happy.
Why Should We Be Thankful?
Being thankful has many benefits:
● It makes us happy: When we focus on the good things, we feel more joy.
● It strengthens our relationships: Saying thank you shows others we appreciate them.
● It pleases God: God loves it when we are thankful for His blessings.
Discussion Prompts for Parents and Children
Here are some questions parents can ask to help children think more about thankfulness:
What are three things you are thankful for today? This helps children reflect on their day and recognize the good things in their lives.
How do you feel when someone says thank you to you? Discussing this can help children understand how their thankfulness can positively impact others.
Can you think of a time when you forgot to say thank you? How can we remember to be more thankful? This can lead to a discussion on the importance of mindfulness and being aware of our actions.
Why do you think God wants us to be thankful in every situation, even when things are hard? This helps children
understand that thankfulness isn't just for good times but also helps us stay positive during challenges.
Activities to Encourage Thankfulness
1. Thankful Tree: Create a tree out of paper and write things you are thankful for on the leaves. Watch your tree grow as you add more leaves each day.
2. Thank You Notes: Make homemade cards for people who have done something nice for you, like your teacher, a friend, or a family member. Expressing your gratitude in writing is a wonderful way to show appreciation.
3. Gratitude Walk: Take a walk outside with your family and point out things you see that you’re thankful for, like the trees, birds, or a friendly neighbor. This helps you appreciate the world around you.
4. Gratitude Stones: Collect small stones and paint or write things you are thankful for on them. Place the stones in a visible area of your home as a daily reminder of your blessings.
5. Acts of Kindness: Show your thankfulness by doing something kind for someone else. This could be helping with chores, sharing a toy, or giving someone a hug. Acts of kindness are a way to express gratitude through action.
6. Thankfulness Chain: Cut strips of colored paper and write one thing you're thankful for on each strip. Link the strips together to create a chain that you can hang in your home. Watch the chain grow as you add more links each day.
*All Scriptures KJV.
for Everyone
Thanksgiving: Before the Mayflower
by Brent Goodge
Therefore by Him let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His name (Hebrews 13:15 NKJV).
Over two millennia before the Mayflower sailed from Plymouth, England, another group of pilgrims was walking from Jerusalem to Babylon. Captured by Nebuchadnezzar’s army, the leaders of Judah were to become his servants. The people God called out of Babylon were going back to Abraham’s original homeland.
Among the thousands demoted from royalty to slavery were four young Hebrews. Unlike the apostasy prevailing in Jerusalem, these young men had been raised in families that loved and obeyed the King of Heaven.
Upon arriving in Babylon, the easy route would be to appease their captors, to do whatever it took to preserve their lives in the short term, hoping for some turn of events where their situation would be reversed. The faithful four decided they would obey God regardless of the consequences, leaving the results to Him. If faithfulness cost them their lives in Babylon, they would die having been faithful to God.
The first test of their commitment would come almost immediately after their arrival. King Nebuchadnezzar wanted to show his benevolence, so the slaves that seemed wise enough to be useful to his government would be seated to eat at the king’s table. But that table was filled with food declared by God’s Word as an abomination. Also, it had been offered in pagan sacrificial services. A decision had to be made quickly.
the dream, Nebuchadnezzar was enraged when they weren’t able to. The subsequent death decree was expansive, including the young Hebrews.
Daniel went to Nebuchadnezzar and told him that where the gods of Babylon were helpless, the God of Heaven was all-powerful. With no obvious evidence of impending help, other than the opportunity to bring glory to His Name, Daniel declared that God could and would reveal the dream and the interpretation.
During the night, Daniel’s faithfulness was honored again. The prophetic dream, which has been accurate in every detail through over 2600 years of human history, was given to Daniel. The four men got on their knees and celebrated Thanksgiving. Not with feasting, but with prayers of utter gratitude to the God who preserved their lives!
“Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king’s delicacies, nor with the wine which he drank” (Daniel 1:8 NKJV).
God blessed their faithfulness, and the four young men advanced in the government. But a greater threat loomed ahead. King Nebuchadnezzar had a dream. Nebuchadnezzar wanted the dream interpreted, but he couldn’t remember it. Demanding his sorcerers interpret
“Blessed be the name of God forever and ever, For wisdom and might are His.”
“I thank You and praise You, O God of my fathers; You have given me wisdom and might, And have now made known to me what we asked of You, For You have made known to us the king’s demand” (Daniel 2:20,23 NKJV).
Brent Goodge lives in Whitfield County. He loves Thanksgiving and hopes he will always keep the real purpose in focus.
for Everyone
Thank Him through the Fog!
by David Voyles
It's easy to be thankful when we feel happy and blessed, but what about those times when our whole world is falling apart? Paul the apostle says in 1 Thessalonians 5:18 NIV “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” While it is biblical to be thankful in the good and bad times, it's not always easy to do. However, I have found my weakest moments and hardest struggles are the times I ended up being most thankful for. This may seem counterintuitive, but it’s these experiences that build and strengthen our minds, bodies, and spirits. These are the moments that will bring us closer to our Lord and provide a glimpse into the awesome power of prayer and gratitude. That is why it is so important to be thankful and rely on Him during our worst moments. Thank Him when the fog is thick and the answers are not clear. Ultimately, our thankfulness will reveal and confirm our faith in the Savior and teach us what it is to share our burden with Him.
God doesn't promise to never give us more than we can handle. In fact, it's quite the opposite. He wants us to seek Him in the difficult times and crave His intervention. While He may not immediately lead us out of the darkest moments, He will walk beside us through the fire and difficulties. He will share the burden with us and sustain us through it all. The Word says in Psalms 55:22 CSB “Cast your burden on the Lord, and He shall sustain you.”
Next time you think everything is lost, take a step back and look at the blessings you possess. For each breath you take to each step you make, God should be thanked and praised. Without Him, none of it would have been possible and there would be no opportunity for a better tomorrow or a better life after this one has run its course. There truly is so much we can be thankful for if we just open our eyes a bit wider and look deeper into our hearts. We can be thankful because God is worthy of our praise. God has blessed us. God gives us hope. God grows us through our challenges. God Gives us strength. God has provided a better life after
this one. I will leave you with a poem I wrote as a teen when I was at a dark place in my life. This poem was my way of praising God even when I didn’t always know there would be a better day tomorrow.
As I felt that the world would never let me be, He was there to hide me so no one could see.
As I lost all hope for a world full of hate, He showed me so quickly it's never too late.
As I shed many tears for all love that had passed. He shared His love, more than one could ever ask.
As I thought I walked alone in a life dark and gray, He was there the whole time leading the way.
God, thank you for being my hope.
Dear God, thank you for teaching me to cope. Thank you for lifting me up.
Dear God, thank you for overfilling my cup. Thank you for easing my fears.
Dear God, thank you for drying my tears. I wish to thank you God for all the help.
If life is a dance, please continue to show me the steps.
Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!
David Voyles loves Jesus, his family, cars of all sorts, and folks of all sorts. That’s why he is sharing this message about the love of Jesus with you.
for your Taste Buds
Smoky Mountain-Inspired Easy Thanksgiving Recipe
Experience the rustic charm of the Smoky Mountains right at your Thanksgiving table with this easy and delicious recipe. Inspired by the flavors of the mountains, this dish combines the warmth of traditional Thanksgiving ingredients with a touch of Southern Appalachian flair. Get ready to savor the essence of the Smokies in every bite.
Ingredients
• 1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 cup chopped carrots
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup apple cider
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
Begin by preparing the turkey. Rinse it thoroughly under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Place the turkey on a roasting rack inside a large roasting pan.
In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, smoked paprika, dried thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to create a flavorful rub. Rub this mixture all over the turkey, ensuring it’s evenly coated with the seasoning.
In the roasting pan, arrange the chopped onions, celery, carrots, and minced garlic around the turkey. These aromatic vegetables will infuse the turkey with their flavors as it roasts.
In a separate bowl, combine the chicken broth, apple cider, and maple syrup. Pour this mixture into the bottom of the roasting pan to create a flavorful basting liquid. Add the fresh rosemary,
Celebrate Him
by Judy Hood
Make the season bright For Jesus is the light. He came to show His love.
Love is something we never tire of In this season of wonderful bliss.
There’s a spirit of joy; we also reminisce. Thankful for the blessings God has bestowed, How He kept us and led us down the right road. What a day to celebrate as His birthday arrives!
Praise Him for His goodness; praise Him for our lives!
We praise Him for the salvation He brought. We are always on His mind; always in His thoughts.
But all the celebrations on earth could never compare,
To the joy and splendor when we get there. Heaven will shine brighter than anything we have ever known. We’ll be walking those streets of glory as we head to God’s throne. We can’t even imagine in our wildest dreams, What’s in store: how He went to extremes. How could He be so creative? With colors, He went wild! I just know as I look around, I’m so happy to be his child!
in honor of Veteran’s Day
A Father’s Sacrifice
by Kristen West
Veterans Day, originally known as Armistice Day, was established in the United States in 1919 by President Woodrow Wilson. The holiday was created to honor those who died in World War I and to commemorate the end of the war on November 11, 1918, when fighting ceased on the Western Front at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month.
Veteran’s Day is personal to me. My father is a Vietnam War veteran.
While I haven’t heard many of his stories, I know that the circumstances he found himself in, the atrocities that he witnessed, and the lingering aftereffects can never be erased. No matter how much time goes by.
Beyond the battlefield experience, my father returned home from Vietnam to find America not looking anything like the land that he loved. It was suffering from the collateral damage of this war and was struggling with how deeply the conflict had polarized its inhabitants. Americans were divided in their opinions of our country’s involvement and many took their passionate stances out on the veterans returning home.
My father and thousands of other Vietnam vets returned to the States to face scorn, shame, and insult. Getting back to “normal life” was nonexistent as political, social, and personal unrest became the new norm. (Is it any wonder that Vietnam vets went on to experience a 90% divorce rate, one of the highest post-war PTSD rates, and saw suicides from their ranks skyrocket?)
My father sacrificed so much. He sacrificed his time – more than a year was spent away from his brand new wife. Instead, it was dedicated to the terrifying jungles and unknown culture of a foreign country. He sacrificed his innocence – images seared into his mind from frontline war, ambushes, and humanity at its worst that cannot be undone. He sacrificed his freedom – when drafted, he bravely answered the call and stepped up to serve not knowing if he’d ever return to the comforts of his American life. He sacrificed his peace – fear gripped his heart and mind daily as he learned to live in “fight or flight” mode. Exhaustion; stress and terror consumed him.
Life, liberties, freedom, and peace all come at a very heavy price. My father’s example taught me that. My Savior’s life did, as well. Jesus proved that sacrifice was the ultimate part of living a selfless life. His voluntary decision to endure the most brutal of Roman culture tortures of the day – crucifixion – demonstrated that.
That divine sacrifice continues to resonate around the world as scores of Christ-followers choose to pick up their cross and die to themselves daily as they love God supremely, love others as themselves, and live with mission and purpose (see Luke 9:23).
I am forever grateful for God’s ultimate sacrifice as Jesus exchanged His life for me. I am also daily grateful for my father’s sacrifice as he bravely served in a war that proved to be a magnet for controversy. But a war his country called him to serve in regardless.
Today, I write this in honor of my father and all the other men and women who have answered that call to serve, protect, and defend our country.
Thank you. Your service, devotion, and sacrifices will forever be written on the pages of history and the deepest places of our hearts.
Until next time, Grace and Glory!
Gò0dNews
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Fitness
Why Not Hope?
by Sandra Gilmore
If there were a booster shot capable of boosting your health in multiple aspects, would you take it? If there were a preventative measure to slow the effects of stress, would you use it? The Bible is blatantly clear about something that science still finds mysterious. Experiments and studies point to the same conclusions, yet researchers don’t always know why. What results have they found? This booster can lower the effects of stress on the body. It can:
● Lower risk of heart attack and/or cardio-related illness
● Lower the perception of pain
● Lower blood pressure
● Lower inflammation
● Boost circulation, respiration, and motor function
● Become a catalyst for change, breakthrough, and motivation
● Sustain intentional healthy habits
● Ease the impact of setbacks and difficulties
If sold in stores, this booster would fly off the shelves. Lines would form outside the doors and around the sidewalk. Eager shoppers would camp outside when a new shipment was on its way. Alas, it’s not sold in stores. There’s nothing to order on the web. No way to make a homemade batch. Fortunately, we have a prescription, indeed a preScripture-tion. The Lord put many references to this booster in plain view. Can you catch the pattern?
● “Through Him, we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God. More than that, we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us” (Romans 5:2-5 NIV).
● “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope” (Romans 15:13 NIV).
● “Faith is the substance of things hoped for, and the evidence of things not seen” (Hebrews 11:1 KJV).
● “Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment” (I Timothy 6:17 NIV).
● “But now, Lord, what do I look for? My hope is in you” (Psalm 39:7 NIV).
● “Let your hope make you glad. Be patient in time of trouble and never stop praying” (Romans 12:12 CEV).
Do you see the booster? It’s hope in our hearts. The original word “heart” in Scripture refers to both the organ in the body and the emotions. Research consistently confirms a mind/body connection. Want to improve your health, especially your heart health? Foster hope. Take on a hopeful mindset and outlook. Establish healthy habits rooted in hope. Make plans for the future. Look up Scriptures pertaining to hope and memorize a few. You’ll see a difference. You’ll find the boost you’ve been needing!
