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About Us
WRITERS
Dr. Alan Hix
Brian Branam
Candyce Carden
Charles Finney
Corrie Vallance
Dorothy Teague
Filip Brunner
Jade Morgan
Jon Mann
Juliana Horatia Ewing
Rick Hughes
Sandra Gilmore
Thomas Morrison
SALES
Bud Kinches
423-650-2801
Email: bud.goodnews@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.
Life in Rhythm
by Brian Branam
If you could summarize your purpose with two words, a verb, and a noun, what would it be? For me, those two words are create content. I am a pastor, teacher, and author who creates content to help you think biblically.
I’ve had the privilege of sitting under some incredible Christian scholars and pastors, but the greatest theologian I ever knew was my grandmother, Lou Truelove. She had a 5th grade education. She taught herself to read by using the Bible. She was married at 15 and birthed 10 children; five boys, five girls. My father was the youngest of the 10.
Some of my fondest childhood memories are sitting on her front porch as she shucked corn or broke beans. I listened to her tell the stories of her week and what the Lord had done for her. She lived the Bible. She connected Bible verses to circumstances. She could show you the sovereign hand of God writing her story.
I believe God used her prayers and her example to shape within me a passion to help people understand the Bible in the places where heaven and earth intersect in everyday life.
Why is this passion of mine so important? Because we need more great theologians like Lou Truelove in the world today. We need their prayers and their examples. I see men –and women – giving up. An alarming amount of men are giving up on work and family. Sadly, many men are giving up on life. They don’t see how heaven and earth intersect in everyday life.
God’s Word showing where heaven and earth intersect in everyday life.
Where are other places in the Bible that show this intersection of heaven and earth? God showed Jacob a ladder in the wilderness on which angels ascended and descended between heaven and earth. When Jesus taught His apostles to pray, He asked God that, “Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven” (Matthew 6:10 ESV). In Revelation 21, God gives John a future vision of a new heaven and a new earth in which the crown jewel is a new Jerusalem that comes to earth from heaven.
A case in point from the Bible is the life of David, whom the Bible calls a man after God’s own heart. David was royal and awful. He was a success and a failure. He was raw, but redeemed. David had plenty of reasons to give up but he was consistently drawn back to deeper truths that helped get his life back into rhythm. He was drawn back to
It is God’s desire that your life be that intersection for His Kingdom on earth now. Heaven and earth constantly collide all around us. But if we are biblically illiterate we will remain wholly ignorant of the world as it really is. If you can understand the Bible, you can understand the world and make better decisions. And better decisions mean walking in a little bit of heaven in everyday life.
IWorship is Not a Spectator Sport
by Candyce Carden
sn’t it interesting how God gives us different preferences and personalities that lead us to pursue different pastimes? I love watching college football season and the Atlanta Braves. Fall is paradise for this spectator sports fan.
Too often, we treat worship as a spectator sport whether we’re sports fans or not. We attend church. When it’s time to sing, we stand but don’t open our mouths, bow our heads to pray but don’t open our hearts, and lift our hands to pass the offering plate but don’t open our wallets. We listen to the pastor’s sermon with half an ear while thinking about lunch plans.
music as you prepare to leave. Pray. Thank God for the church staff who planned a meaningful worship experience. Ask God to open your hearts, minds, and ears to hear the message He has for you today. Pray that an unsaved person accepts God’s gift of salvation.
The Worship Experience: To stay involved during worship, we can follow a few suggestions. If you aren’t a singer, focus on the message of the lyrics. Allow the instrumental music to soar through your soul as you connect, with thanksgiving, to God. If you donate online or in another way, actively participate during offering by praying the tithes and gifts are used to advance God’s kingdom.
“Therefore let us be grateful for receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, and thus let us offer to God acceptable worship with reverence and awe” (Hebrew 28-20 ESV).
I’ve been guilty of treating worship as a spectator sport. As baseball and football seasons overlap, I implemented a few practices to keep me engaged during worship. Maybe you will find something helpful here.
Preparing Our Hearts and Minds for Active Worship
Before Church: To prepare to worship, we can silence the distractions. No sports talk shows—or other television. No social media or other hobbies. Instead, listen to praise
Resolve to remain attentive to the sermon, despite inner distractions. Taking notes helps me. Pray for your minister and the congregation. Know that God has nuggets of wisdom for you. You don’t want to miss them. Jotting a brief reflection about the sermon often deepens understanding.
After the Benediction: Rather than dashing off, look for someone to interact with. Offer a word of welcome. Compliment a young mother on how well-behaved her children are, or how cute they look. Thank your church staff for what they do.
My older sister used to tell me that going to church made the entire week better. She was right. Worship is a great way to start the week, but it doesn’t stop on Sunday. We’re more likely to maintain a closer connection with God throughout the week after a meaningful worship service. As with anything, we will get out of it what we put into it.
Offering God acceptable worship with reverence and awe is the least we can do for Him after all the gifts He offers us.
WMedicare and the Upcoming Annual Enrollment Period
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.
ith the transition of seasons from summer to fall this month, we begin to prepare for cooler temps, shorter days and the beauty of change as trees shift from greens to oranges, yellows, and reds. This time of change in nature is a great reminder that change might also be needed in our season of retirement. Enter the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP).
AEP runs from October 15th to December 7th of each year and offers Medicare beneficiaries the opportunity to review their current coverage. This is a time to reevaluate your healthcare coverage needs, see if adjustments need to be made, make sure you are optimizing benefits available to you and make educated, informed decisions that will impact both your health and finances in the upcoming year.
Many Medicare Advantage and Part D (prescription drug) plans update their benefits, coverage options and costs at this time. This can have an impact on your out-ofpocket expenses and inclusion of your doctors in certain networks. Have you had changes to your health in the past year? Maybe you will need to start seeing a new doctor or specialist or begin a new medication. A plan that has been working for you might not be the best option in the new year due to plan updates.
While we all know that Medicare and healthcare go hand in hand, sometimes we don’t realize that Medicare is also a piece of our Retirement Plan as well. Expenses associated with your healthcare are directly tied to your financial plan and income needs during retirement. Bridging a healthcare gap between retirement and Medicare eligibility age requires planning. Budgeting for co-pays
and prescription drug costs associated with Medicare plans factor into your overall retirement income need. As you assess your coverage needs during the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period, it may also be a good time to review your overall financial and retirement plan as well.
Hughes Retirement Group started out taking care of the Medicare needs of our community. Throughout this journey, we realized the tie between Medicare and financial planning. This led to the growth of our business to include both areas so that we could help ensure that our community had all the knowledge they needed to make not only informed but educated decisions for all of their retirement needs.
In the spirit of this education mindset, Hughes Retirement Group will be hosting our Inaugural Medicare Shake and Bake 2024 event Monday, September 23rd at the Olive Branch Event Center here in Cleveland. We will shake up the A,B,C’s of Medicare with two educational classes to choose from. One will be offered at 10:00 am and the other at 2:00 pm. During this time, we will discuss changes for the upcoming year that will be crucial to your evaluation of your Medicare needs and current coverage. After class, feel free to let all of that information bake in while you visit the various senior focused services that will have booths set up to help continue this educational experience for our community. If you would like to join us, please RSVP your time choice, name, and number of guests to Robin@hughesretirementgroup.com.
THE TOTAL CHURCH EQUIPPING CONFERENCE
Cost: $15 Per Person
Thom S. Rainer is a renowned church leader, author, and consultant, currently serving as the founder and CEO of Church Answers, an online resource platform for church leaders. He previously held the positions of President and CEO at LifeWay Christian Resources and was the founding dean of the Billy Graham School of Missions and Evangelism at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. His expertise in church health led him to establish the Rainer Group, a consulting firm that has guided numerous churches and organizations. A prolific author, Rainer has contributed more than two dozen books to the field, including influential works such as “I Am a Church Member” and “Autopsy of a Deceased Church.”
SESSION TOPICS:
MISSIONS
• Steps to Recognize and Raise Up Missional Leaders in Your Church
• Getting Ready to Go NEXT GEN – KIDS
• Babysitter vs Influencer
• Leading a Child to Christ
• Starting a Special Needs Ministry in Your Church NEXT GEN – STUDENTS
• Six Things Every Volunteer Needs to Know to Work with Teenagers
• Navigating Best Practices for Discipling Teenagers
• Beyond Meat: Helps for those that lead youth Bible study
PASTOR WELLNESS
• Why Groups Matter: Small Group & Sunday School Training
• Winning the Church Back to Men
• The State of Manhood
• Key to Multiplying Gospel Impact Through Your Senior Adult Ministry
• First Impressions and Guest Services
• Fears in Disciple-making
• New Member Connection and Assimilation
• Open Your Church to Deaf People
• Teaching/Leading an Adult Class or Group
EVANGELISM
• The Power of Prayer in Evangelism
• The Five-Star Evangelistic Leader
MINISTRY ADMINISTRATION
• Artificial Intelligence and Your Ministry: The New Fuel for Efficiency and Impact
MISSION GEORGIA
• Navigating Trauma in the Church
• Four Keys to a Healthy Church
• UNLEASH!: 5 Strategies for Shaping a Church That’s Reaching, Discipling, and Deploying Young Leaders
• Deacon Ministry Foundations
• Current Trends and Common Practices in Turn-Around Churches
• Dealing Effectively with Church Conflict PUBLIC AFFAIRS
• Protecting Evangelism and Missions through Religious Freedom
• Reducing the Risk of Child Sexual Abuse in the Church WOMEN
• Five Essential Elements for Leading Women in the Local Church
• Women in Ministry WORSHIP & MUSIC
• Harmonizing Hearts: The Art of Being a Great Worship and Music Leader
• Sound & Vision: Elevating Worship Experiences Through Audio, Visual, and Livestream Mastery
Pain = Blessing
by Jon Mann
Life is full of happiness, love, and joy. It is also full of pain, loss, and suffering. You are thinking to yourself right now, no duh, right? However, if presented with a choice, the majority of us, if not all, would prefer to never experience anything bad in our lives ever again. What if I said, in doing so, we would miss the greatest opportunity and blessing ever presented to us? (You now probably think I am crazy and wonder how this made the cut). Before you quit reading, let me ask you this one question: What is one thing that every single person in the world has in common? We have all experienced pain in one way, shape, or form, some worse than others. However, like my wife likes to say, “Pain is pain.”
You are probably still wondering how pain is a blessing. There are multiple ways. First, have you ever had a cut and after it healed it left a scar? If so, you know that the area where the scar is is tougher than the surrounding area that is not scarred. Second, remember when you were younger and your parents said, “Don’t touch. It's hot.” and, you did anyway? Did you learn the lesson to listen and not touch it because it’s hot? Lastly, have you ever seen a pearl? If so, do you know how a pearl is created? A pearl is created from sand, trauma, or a parasite entering the shell of the clam and damaging their bodies. Just think—those beautiful pearls we see come from the result of a traumatic injury.
God did not plan for pain, loss, and suffering to be a part of the world. However, sin entered the world, and these are reflections of that darkness. Am I saying that I'm glad we have pain, loss, and suffering in the world? Absolutely not. But God can turn them into a blessing. *Genesis 50:20 says, “But as for you, you meant evil against me; but God meant it for good, in order to bring it about as it is this day, to save many people.” The scar leaves your skin tougher. The only way for that to have happened is if you kept going like the righteous in Proverbs 24:16, “For a righteous man may fall seven times and rise again.” In the moments when we make mistakes, and when we are at our lowest, God meets us there in those times like in 2 Corinthians 12:9, “God’s grace is sufficient for you, and His strength is made perfect in your weakness.”
Lastly, as the clam made beautiful pearls from a traumatic experience, so can you help others who are hurting by giving mercy and grace. You know everyone has experienced some type of pain. Don’t be afraid to show your scars. Revelation 12:11 says, “We overcame him (satan) by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony.” Decide today to give your pain freely to the Lord. Don’t choose to harbor it and let satan win. Allow God to turn your pain into a blessing!
*All Scriptures NKJV
Jon Mann is a manager at CTN-WTNB ClevelandChattanooga and Co-Executive Director of JAMMinistries with his beautiful wife, Amy Mann. He attends Metro Tab Church where he serves as the Outreach Coordinator and attends ministry school. Jon and his wife also foster two beautiful children.
The Power of Get Up and Go
by Corrie Vallance
In Matthew, Chapters 1 and 2, we see a great example of one man’s faithful actions in the husband of Mary, Joseph. Just think about what we could do to avoid conflict if we heard and obeyed the heavenly father as Joseph did!
Joseph never hesitated to listen to God’s voice. And by jumping at the chance to follow the commands of the Lord, Jesus was born into this world and saved from being murdered by King Herod. We have our Lord and Savior because of Joseph’s unyielding faith. The Lord’s purpose for mankind was carried out by Joseph’s actions.
But Joseph wasn’t following blindly. He followed by faith, calling that which is unseen, seen! By implementing the thought pattern that God’s provisions are already given to us by inheritance, we can move forward. Following by faith is rather the opposite of following blindly. It is truly said that the blind walk by sight. But what they are seeing is the world, not the spiritual realm. Spiritual blindness stops us from even imagining the possibilities, the colors, the depth, width or might of God’s love! Faith empowers us to see these things as they already exist because we know they do truly exist.
Why do we think God spoke to Joseph in his sleep?
I believe it is the way into the mind through the back door, so to speak. It is a way for God to speak to us through our subconscious rather than our conscious mind. Our
consciousness is constantly battling with itself. The clatter that comes from that thinking clouds our judgment. Our conscious mind is the Adamic Nature we are born into and therefore we cannot shut it off or shut it out completely. But in our sleep, we are freed from this thinking, this consistent intention to call things good or bad. And so, in our slumber, we have the ability to simply receive a thought instead of interpret it.
The choice Joseph had when he woke up was to simply follow the message he had received during sleep, or in his dreams. He took action upon it without understanding. He chose to simply follow the command of the Lord. So Joseph got up and moved as instructed.
I recently moved from California to Tennessee, a 2500 mile move. This move has been so displacing and life altering. I made this move with a Penske truck and trailer that towed my meager possessions across the grand span of the United States. I can’t imagine packing a mule with some water and bread, leaving everything behind, and then trekking across the Sierras, the Rockies, and all that terrain to move to another town.
But Joseph never quibbled about his assignment. He simply packed the mule, the woman, the child and set upon the journey. The length of the first trip Joseph took with Mary is undetermined. I have read 492 miles, 90 miles, and even 60 miles. But even at 60 miles, going the speed of a walking mule would be too much for a person of my faith capacity to endure!
Reading this chapter truly can cause us to see the need to evaluate the reluctance in our Christian faith. We have such a desire for comfort that our mindset can work against the Lord and His plans for our lives. I laugh out loud at the thought of my inadequacy to be more like Joseph when called by God in my own life. So, dear reader, let this Scripture challenge us to pattern after Joseph and get up and go as the Lord leads!
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
Morton 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
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
ò0 dNews for Relationships Plumb Line
by Jade Morgan
Afew years ago, I felt led to lead a devotion at our women’s meeting. I really thought I had the topic all worked out, but God kept a particular issue on my mind for days on end before the meeting. I could not seem to find the “perfect” verse to use, so I asked a few friends for advice on the topic. I was led to Amos 7:8.
Background:
● Amos was a shepherd and looked after fig trees.
● He was from Judah.
● God sent him to Israel.
● Jeroboam was King at the time and Israel became hugely successful. They had full control of the trade routes, thus becoming crazy rich. The Israelites thought they would always be this way, this successful.
● Although the Israelites believed in one God, and that He ruled the nations, He is their judge. He decides what is done about their sin, that worship is important and that they did not obey God’s law. Therefore, their worship did not bring anything good from God.
● Amos compared their behavior to that of their ancestors.
● Amos begged God to not reign total judgment on the Israelites; twice God complied.
● God wanted people to behave in a true way instead of sacrifices. Sacrifices are good, but behaving in a true way is more important.
Which brings us to Amos 7:7-8 AMPC:
“Thus He showed me, and behold, the Lord stood upon a wall with a plumb line, with a plumb line in His hand. And the Lord said to me, Amos, what do you see? And I said, A plumb line. Then said the Lord, Behold, I am setting a plumb line as a standard in the midst of My people Israel. I will not pass by and spare them any more [the door of mercy is shut].” A plumb line?
I looked up the definition: A plumb line is an object to which masons first build and frame walls of houses, and by which they do at any time measure them, whether they stand upright, or any way belly out and decline.
I still did not really get it. Then, I read that the word ‘plumb’ means: to a complete degree; exactly. Ex: “plumb tired.” Now that was a phrase I knew well. Click. I got it.
God is “measuring” the Israelites against the perfect standard: Jesus. When we sin, we start to bow, decline, or tilt. We lose our vertical alignment. Our standard, or plumb line, is and forever will be Jesus. He was sent to be the perfect example.
When relationships are considered, we cannot compare ourselves to others or compare our sin to others' sin. We cannot compare to justify. We answer to Jesus. Our relationship with Him is what matters most. He alone judges our sin. We know right from wrong– period. Just because my sin isn’t as “bad” as someone else’s does not mean it is permissible or accepted. Sin is not weighted differently.
The plumb line when perfectly straight, spins. The most beautiful spin too. When it is off kilter in any way, no spinning will occur.
I once heard this example and my goodness, the impact it has made in my life!
Think of a big city skyline. All of the buildings are different sizes, shapes, colors, etc. Some you notice immediately; some you have to look a bit more closely to see. Some stick out like a sore thumb but, that’s when we are looking straight at them. What about the view from above? When God looks down at that skyline from Heaven, He sees flat, straight across surfaces. None stick out more than others; none are bigger or smaller. They all look the exact same. This is like our sin.
It is not weighted by our Father in Heaven. Conviction looks different for everyone, but ultimately, our hearts know right from wrong. And that’s plumb clear!
"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
The Joint: Aligning Cost, Convenience, and Chiropractic Care
The Joint is dedicated to family chiropractic and spine health in the Fort Oglethorpe area. You are cordially invited to join hundreds of people in the last two years who have found not only relief from lower back pain, sciatica pain, and migraines but also a pathway to wellness with chiropractic's natural, drug-free approach to healthcare. This team and their services have been welcomed by the Fort Oglethorpe community. Over 365 Google reviews have resulted in a 4.9 rating because of the care and improved health and well-being in the lives of patients. Meet the Docs
Dr. Tom Donnelly, the Lead DC at the Fort Oglethorpe clinic, is formerly from Flint, Michigan. He has been living in Southeast Tennessee for 12 years and has been working for The Joint Chiropractic since 2021. A graduate of Palmer College of Chiropractic in Davenport, Iowa, Donnelly’s initial career pursuit was law, but he quickly changed his mind after finding his passion for chiropractic care.
Dr. Matt Middleton is a graduate of Life University’s College of Chiropractic in Marietta, GA. Prior to chiropractic, Dr. Matt was a strength and conditioning coach in Denver, Colorado. After suffering a painful injury during
training, he was introduced to the benefits of chiropractic care, and his personal experience led him on a journey to help others in the same way.
Seeking Relief
If you are experiencing aches, pain and/or decreased range of motion, these licensed chiropractors will work to identify the source of the issue and eliminate joint restrictions. The doctor will most likely recommend a care plan that may include multiple visits per week, for two to four weeks or until the acute pain is reduced, as well as home therapies such as icing and/or stretching.
When you visit the Fort Oglethorpe chiropractic office, you’ll join hundreds of people who have found relief and a new lease on life. The founders designed the model to be extremely affordable so more people could experience the benefits. This is especially helpful due to current economic factors that have most Americans closely evaluating their spending. Innovators of the “Wellness Plan”
Americans are also closely evaluating how they spend their time. Is your schedule full and demanding? The Joint clinics are open six days per week. Some locations are open seven days. By keeping the prices low and eliminating the
need for insurance billing, The Joint’s model is streamlined, allowing busy people the option of routine chiropractic care.
While anyone is welcome to pay the single visit rate of $45, The Joint also offers discounted packages, and even has a membership option called the “Wellness Plan,” which is only available at The Joint and provides weekly visits (4 per month) for only $69.00. That’s less than $18.00 per visit!
Dr. Donnelly adds, “I challenge everyone to fit these weekly visits into their busy schedule for at least three months, and then let me know how you feel. In most cases, by the end of the three months, they’re firm believers in chiropractic, and they’ve already referred several people!”
Shared Success
During a patient appointment, Dr. Donnelly spoke with a woman who had been a patient for the prior three months. She committed to routine chiropractic care after her initial visit by signing up for the Wellness Plan which offers discounted visits that are paid for in bulk each month. By never missing an appointment, she was able to start living pain-free again.
The patient was sharing about how she has new energy every day. Without hesitation, Dr. Donnelly joyfully highfived her saying, “That was sort of the plan!” The patient continued to describe how the discomfort radically affected her ability to juggle her pottery business and parenting duties. She shared that she now sleeps well and moves better while she juggles her hectic lifestyle. “Driving four kids around plus trying to meet deadlines, along with chores, I had to add self care to my schedule. I am so glad I found The Joint Chiropractic. Without their help, I would be in a lot of pain and unable to be the mom I really want to be,” she remarked.
If you visit the website, you will see what customers are saying. Here are just a few examples of the reviews:
Mary-Alice E.
Great service and we started our daughter here to help with her back and knees. It has helped tremendously and she and I both come weekly. Amber at the front is always friendly. Dr Taylor and Donnelly are the best. Each works with us on our individual needs.
Tiffany M.
This was my first ever visit to a chiropractor, I was so nervous just because it was new, but from the moment I walked in I was treated with so much kindness starting with Amber. She was so friendly and so welcoming! Dr. Donnelly
was amazing as well, thoroughly discussing my concerns and developing a treatment plan! I cannot wait to see where this takes my physical and mental well-being! I will recommend all of my friends to this practice!
Lisa T.
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 which 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 in the office but that was gone after he explained everything to me.
Vincent H.
This is such a great chiropractic place. I already feel better after just one visit. And everyone there makes you feel welcomed and cared for. Then, on top of that, the cost is such an amazing deal! I cannot recommend it enough!
Robert A.
The front desk is fantastic!! Dr. Taylor folded me like a pretzel and made me feel 16 again. 10/10 would recommend.
Where Are They Located?
This office is at 2713 Battlefield Pkwy, Fort Oglethorpe, GA. Four other convenient locations in the Greater Chattanooga Area are ready to serve you. Call (706) 744 1098 or see www.thejoint.com for more information.
The Hilarious Misadventures of the Rabbit-Trappin’ Smiths
by Charles Finney
Once upon a time, there lived a family as rural and uneducated as they come - the Smiths. The Smiths were known for their unconventional ways including finding humor in the simplest of things. One fine day, the head of the Smith clan, Farmer Jeb, decided it was high time he caught himself a rabbit for supper. Armed with nothing but a rusty old trap and a heart full of determination, he set out on a misadventure that would soon have the whole town laughing.
The Smiths' idea of a trap was unique. It consisted of a broken laundry basket, a piece of string, and an empty moonshine jug. Jeb figured if he placed the jug just right, any rabbit lured by its shiny surface would get caught in the basket when it fell over. He proudly set up his trap, convinced that he had outsmarted every rabbit in the county. Little did Jeb know, his plan was about as foolproof as a screen door on a submarine.
Grandma Smith, a wise old woman despite her lack of formal education, was sitting on the porch, her Bible in her lap. She had a habit of finding solace and wisdom in the scriptures, even if she didn't always understand them. On this particular day, she was reading aloud from the King James Version of Psalm 25:14-15, her voice carrying across the fields like a gentle breeze: “The secret of the Lord is with them that fear Him; and He will show them His covenant. Mine eyes are ever toward the Lord, for He shall pluck my feet out of the net.”
Little did Grandma know, her words would soon have a whole new meaning for the Smith family.
Back at the rabbit trap, Jeb waited patiently, hidden behind a bush, convinced he was about to make culinary history. Unbeknownst to him, a curious raccoon had caught wind of the shiny moonshine jug. Fascinated, it approached the trap, reaching for the jug.
Just then, the laundry basket fell with a loud thud, trapping the raccoon inside. The raccoon darted around, creating a ruckus that could wake the dead. Jeb, thinking he had caught the most ferocious rabbit ever, leaped from behind the bush, armed with a broom.
“Pa's caught a demon rabbit!” shouted Jeb's youngest son, Billy, running toward the chaos with wide eyes.
Grandma Smith closed her Bible and made her way to the scene. Seeing the raccoon trapped in the laundry basket, she chuckled.
“Jeb, that ain't no rabbit. You’ve caught yourself a bandit!” she said, her eyes twinkling with amusement.
Jeb scratched his head, realizing his folly. The family erupted into laughter, even the raccoon seemed to chitter in amusement as if it knew it had outsmarted the great rabbit trapper.
As they released the raccoon back into the wild, Jeb wiped tears of laughter from his eyes. “Well, I reckon that's one way to catch a critter, even if it ain't the one I was aimin' for.”
Grandma nodded sagely. “Sometimes, life's lessons come in unexpected ways, Jeb. Just like how the good Lord shows us His secrets in mysterious ways.”
When the Smiths gathered around the dinner table, they shared tales of their day. Grandma Smith brought up the scripture she had read earlier. “You know,” she said, her eyes twinkling, “maybe the meaning of life is a lot like that raccoon. Sometimes, you think you're chasing one thing, but life surprises you with something entirely different.”
The family pondered Grandma's words, and then, as if on cue, burst into laughter once more. And in that moment, surrounded by love, laughter, and the warmth of family, the Smiths realized that the meaning of life wasn't some grand mystery to be solved, but a series of moments, both big and small, that brought joy and laughter, even in the most unexpected of circumstances.
Sovereign God, Where Is My Free Will?
by Filip Brunner
As our Father, God is interested in us on a very personal and intimate level. As our Father, God will let us mess up. The prophet Jonah was told by God to go to the city of Nineveh and cry out against it, warning them to repent or be overthrown.
Jonah hated the Ninevites, and rightfully so. They were a bunch of angry, sadistic sinners. And yet God loved them enough to warn them to repent. God’s sovereign will was for the Ninevites to repent and to turn to Him. Jonah’s will for the Ninevites was literally to: “…go to hell Nineveh, with my blessings.”
God wants to see lives changed. Jonah wants justice to be done.
Sound familiar?
1 Corinthians 6:9-11 KJV
“Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God. And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.”
What is the will of God for my life?
God wants:
● Abraham, the liar, to be the father of a nation.
● Moses, the murderer, to be the leader of a nation.
● David, the adulterer, to be the father of Solomon.
● Saul, the mass murderer, to become Paul, the writer of most of the New Testament.
● Gideon, the coward, to be a mighty warrior.
Let me invite you to consider this. My will is to do my thing, to go into the far country and live with the pigs. The Father’s will is for me to see His love, His goodness and to come to my senses and come back home. Then and only then can I enjoy the freedom and the gifts of the new clothes, the signet ring and the food at the Father’s table. It is only when I surrender to the will of the Father that I can have true freedom. Not to do my best but to do His best for my life. It is here, in the Father’s house and in the company of Jesus that we can be free not to sin. We gain the power of the Holy Spirit to bask in the presence of the Sovereign God. And so, it is the foreknowledge of God which bridges the age old question, “Is God Sovereign or do we have free will?” Because God is all knowing, we have the freedom through Christ to do God’s Sovereign will. Just like Esther, we were born for such a time as this. Readers, here you have something to think about.
Filip Brunner is married to his wife, Dr. Kim Brunner and together they have six children. He is a writer, author, and artist.
Learning About God Through Autumn Leaves
Autumn is a special time of year when the leaves on the trees change colors and fall to the ground. These changes can teach us a lot about God and our faith. Let’s explore some fun lessons about autumn leaves and see what the Bible has to say.
Embracing Change
In autumn, the green leaves turn into beautiful shades of red, orange, and yellow. This reminds us that change can be beautiful. The Bible says in *Ecclesiastes 3:1, “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.” Just like the leaves change, we also go through
different seasons in our lives, and God is with us through all of them. Think about a time when something changed in your life. How did it turn out to be a good thing? How did God help you through that change?
The Beauty of Letting Go
When the leaves fall from the trees, it shows us that sometimes we need to let go of old things to make room for new things. Jesus teaches us in Matthew 16:25, “For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it.” Letting go can be hard, but it helps us grow and trust God more. Is there something you need to let go of, like a worry or a fear? How can trusting God help you let it go?
The Reminder of Life’s Cycles
The seasons change every year in a cycle: spring, summer, autumn, and winter. This reminds us that life has different times, too. Psalm 1:3 says, “That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither—whatever they do prospers.” When we stay close to God, we can grow and be strong, no matter what season of life we are in. What are some ways you can stay close to God every day? How does it make you feel strong and happy?
Preparation and Rest
Autumn is a time when many animals get ready for winter. They gather food and prepare to rest. This reminds us that rest is important. Hebrews 4:9-10 tells us, “There remains, then, a Sabbath-rest for the people of God; for anyone who enters God's rest also rests from their works, just as God did from his.” Just like the animals, we need to rest and trust God to take care of us. What are some ways you can rest and spend time with God? Why is rest important?
The Assurance of New Beginnings
After the leaves fall and winter comes, we know that spring will follow, and new leaves will grow. Isaiah 43:19 says, “See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?” God is always doing new things in our lives, just like new leaves grow in spring. Can you think of a time when something new and exciting happened in your life? How did it make you feel to know that God was with you?
Autumn leaves are not just beautiful to look at; they also teach us important lessons about God. They remind us that change can be good, letting go is important, life has different seasons, rest is needed, and new beginnings are always possible. Next time you see the colorful leaves falling, remember these lessons and thank God for His wonderful creation and His love for us.
*All Scriptures NIV
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America
for Everyone When Life Overwhelms Us
by Dr. Alan Hix
Do you sometimes face situations in which you feel completely overwhelmed by circumstances, yet you must find a way to move forward? In these moments, we need more than mere courage; we need a source of strength beyond ourselves. Judges 6:11-16 reveals a profound encounter between Gideon and God in which Gideon finds boldness in the assurance of God's presence despite overwhelming circumstances.
Gideon was threshing wheat in a winepress to hide it from the Midianites. At any moment they might appear to steal the hard-earned harvest. Gideon may have felt overwhelmed by fear and uncertainty, yet, in this very ordinary moment, an extraordinary encounter unfolds. The angel of the Lord appears and addresses Gideon with an unexpected greeting: “The Lord is with you, mighty warrior!”
In modern language, Gideon's response was something like, “Who me? I’m not anybody, and my family is not important.” To take the focus off himself, he raises concerns about the apparent absence of divine intervention in the face of the Israelites' suffering. In other words, Gideon is saying, “God, where have you been all this time?”
Undeterred by Gideon’s accusation, God assures Gideon of His divine plan for delivering Israel from the Midianites. The insignificance of Gideon’s family and his own sense of personal inadequacy become irrelevant in the face of God's empowering promise: “I will be with you, and you will strike down all the Midianites, leaving none alive.”
Gideon's journey from doubt to acceptance is reflected in his acknowledgment of God's promise. It is not Gideon's might but God's presence that defines the outcome of the challenge before him. In response to God’s promise, Gideon finds the courage to embrace God’s call upon his life.
In this story, we find an important truth: God's promises are not contingent on our qualifications or abilities. His presence transforms our inadequacies into opportunities for His glory to be revealed. When we face challenges, we are not alone; we are carriers of the divine presence, and God's promises resonate with the assurance that we will overcome through His strength.
Because of this assurance, we can face our challenges with renewed confidence. Like Gideon, our focus shifts from our limitations to God's unlimited power. His assurance enables us to step into situations that seem overwhelming, knowing that we have the promise of His presence.
The promise, “I will be with you,” was the same one given to Moses, Jeremiah, and Isaiah when they expressed their own sense of unworthiness: “I can’t speak.” and “I am only a
youth.” and “I am a man of unclean lips.” When Joshua found himself having to step into Moses’ shoes, God's promise to him was: “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9 ESV).
In the encounter between Gideon and God, we discover a timeless truth: God's presence transforms fear into courage, doubt into faith, and weakness into strength.
As we navigate life's challenges, let us take courage in the promise that we are not alone. Looking forward to the time when God would send His messiah, Isaiah declared, “Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call His name Immanuel (which means, God with us)” (Isaiah 7:14 ESV).
God's declaration, "I will be with you," invites us to face difficulties with unwavering confidence, knowing that in His presence, we find the courage to face our challenges in His strength.
Dr. Alan Hix is 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.
dNews for Everyone
Hope Prevails: Rodney Waddell’s Testimony
by Sandra Gilmore
“They were treating me for one thing but it was definitely another,” Rodney Waddell explains.
“Earlier that day, I knew something just wasn’t right when I was in my garage at home. I beat on the car to alert my wife. She called for help and the paramedics were on their way in moments.”
At the initial survey, all the signs of a heart attack were there. EMTs did their best to get Waddell stabilized en route to the hospital for more specialized care. Later, it was discovered that he suffered from an aortic dissection, a rare and extremely dangerous condition where the inner layer of the aorta, the large blood vessel branching off the heart, tears. Blood surges through the tear, causing the inner and middle layers of the aorta to split (dissect). This leads to massive internal bleeding, leaving a mere 7-10 minute window for effective medical intervention before the risk of bleeding out becomes imminent. Statistically, only about one-third of people survive such an event and the subsequent surgery. For Rodney, it was about focusing on the One who could heal and save him, not the statistics of an anticipated one-third survival rate.
This ordeal began on November 15, 2018. After 45 days in the hospital, Rodney resumed his normal routines with his family and on his delivery route. And yet, what could be seen as mundane became miraculous. Before his heart event, Rodney went about his days with a deep belief in the Lord. After the heart event, plus other health challenges, each day became a treasure and an opportunity to share with others just how much God cares about our lives. The blessings of daily life became more evident. He takes more joy from each day. Laughter, problem-solving, and engaging with people are now elevated components of his days rather than just simple parts of daily routines.
“He is with me, I know that for sure,” Rodney confirms as he shares with individuals as well as groups and/or congregations in churches throughout the Rome, GA area. You see, the aortic dissection wasn’t the only battle Rodney faced. The hurdles he met next were COVID-19 in 2020, then a stroke in 2021, and more recently cancer in 2022. The span from November 2018 to May 2022 tested Rodney’s resolve and physical strength.
His family stood strong during each health episode. His wife, children, and grandchildren supported him with faithful prayers and unwavering commitment. Hope was and is a staple in their lives.
Scriptures that stayed with Rodney were James 1:2 KJV, “My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations.” and 1 Corinthians 10:13 KJV, “There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.”
Rodney adds, “I want to acknowledge my former and current pastors that have helped me along this journey: Pastor Mike Garrett from Dykes Creek and Pastor Mac McCurry of Pleasant Valley North Baptist both in Rome, Georgia for their guidance. There have been others who have and are dealing with various issues and they’ve asked me questions. I can only speak from my experience to just keep their heads up and know that they are not alone down this path called life.”
Someone recently asked, “Did you see a light?” Rodney replied with deep conviction, “Well, not exactly. I guess when you are walking in the Light, you don't have to look for it!”
About The Author
Rodney Waddell lives in Rome, GA, with his wife. They are proud parents and grandparents. He wants to share his testimony because he knows for sure the Lord caused a miracle and has more work for him to do on earth.
Gò0 dNews for your Taste Buds
Savor the Season with Autumn BBQ
It was that special time of year when kids reluctantly traded their carefree summer days for the rigors of school.
The Johnson family had a tradition that helped ease the transition: a back-to-school BBQ. They knew gathering around the grill brought them together in a way that nothing else could. It was the perfect way to celebrate the end of summer and welcome the new school year.
Early Saturday morning found Dad, a seasoned grill master, venturing into the garage to dust off the trusty old barbecue. He couldn’t help but reminisce about all the family gatherings around that grill over the years. Meanwhile, Mom began preparing the marinated chicken that would be the star of the BBQ. She had a secret marinade recipe passed down from her grandmother, a recipe that had been perfected over generations. As she mixed the ingredients together, she thought about how proud her grandmother would be to see her carrying on the family tradition.
Their two kids, Emily and Alex, were tasked with setting up the backyard. They draped colorful streamers from tree to tree, and their laughter filled the air as they blew up balloons.
Dad carefully placed the marinated chicken on the grates. The sizzle and aroma of the cooking meat wafted through the air, drawing neighbors out of their homes and into the backyard. The Johnsons’ back-to-school BBQ was known throughout the neighborhood as the unofficial endof-summer party, and everyone was eager to join in. The family dog, Max, couldn’t contain his excitement either. He darted around the yard, stealing glances at the grill in the hopes that a juicy piece of chicken might fall his way. As the guests arrived, old friends and new neighbors mingled, sharing stories of their summer adventures and dreams for the upcoming school year. Energetic children ran through the yard, chasing each other as Max chased them.
Finally, the moment arrived when Dad declared the chicken was ready. He placed the perfectly grilled pieces onto a platter and carried it to the picnic table. The family
gathered around, savoring the flavors of the chicken and sides and the warmth of each other’s company.
The Johnsons and their guests were reminded once again that the best way to start a new chapter was surrounded by the love of family and friends, good food, and the comforting glow of the grill.
Lemon Garlic Marinade
Ingredients
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
2-3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, a pinch of salt, and a pinch of black pepper. Place your choice of protein (chicken, fish, shrimp, tofu, or vegetables) in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the lemon garlic marinade over the protein. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to marinate. For best results, marinate for 2-4 hours or even overnight, depending on the thickness of the protein. When you’re ready to cook, remove the protein from the marinade and grill, roast, or pan-fry as desired. (Discard the used marinade.)
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Autumn Leaves
by Juliana Horatia Ewing
The Spring's bright tints no more are seen, And Summer's ample robe of green Is russet-gold and brown; When flowers fall to every breeze And, shed reluctant from the trees, The leaves drop down.
A sadness steals about the heart, —And is it thus from youth we part, And life's redundant prime? Must friends like flowers fade away, And life like Nature know decay, And bow to time?
And yet such sadness meets rebuke, From every copse in every nook Where Autumn's colours glow; How bright the sky! How full the sheaves!
What mellow glories gild the leaves
Before they go.
Then let us sing the jocund praise, In this bright air, of these bright days, When years our friendships crown; The love that's loveliest when 'tis old-When tender tints have turned to gold And leaves drop down.
Seasons: Securely Stepping Ahead
by Dorothy Teague
This time of year, when summer slips into fall, I feel like it’s a reset, a new beginning. It reminds me of my school days, starting back with a new notebook full of blank, crisp pages where I would write new lessons and stories. The smell of new leather shoes and bookbags was carried along with the autumn air and the anticipation of making new friends was like a crackle of electricity when we gathered in our new room.
In nature, the turning of seasons brings visible changes. During fall, the trees start going through their metamorphosis of changing from greens to golds and reds.
know their way to the garden on their own. Those boots have tread up and down the many rows of vegetables and flowers I have lovingly planted and tended year after year. Even though I might cover it well, I really get “out of whack” if I’m pushed out of my regular routine. Sometimes, God has to work on me to “let go and let God.” I want to hang on for dear life to what I usually do instead of stepping out of my comfort zone to let Him stretch and mold me to be more like Him.
We, like nature, go through seasons and cycles in our lives. Some seasons are challenging while others seem to go smoothly. There is always something to be learned in each new season of our lives. For every end, there is always a new beginning; the secret is to learn to step forward out of each one.
As a creature of habit, I cling to the familiar and the comfortable. I am one of “those” people who pull out the same comfy, well-worn jeans and oversized fleeces, even though I have twenty other items I could wear. When I pull on my muck boots by the back door, it feels as if they
Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 KJV says, “To every thing there is a season, and a time for every purpose under the Heaven…” Just as each season has its time and place, so we have purposes to fulfil in each season of our lives. We need to be pliable in God’s hands so we can grow to be more like Him, “being transformed… from glory to glory by the Spirit of the Lord” (2 Corinthians 3:18 KJV). When we continually gravitate to familiar pathways, it’s hard to find the way forward. The road ahead can seem scary, but we can always depend on Him to light the way. He tells us in Psalm 32:8 ESV, “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go.” We travel through this world, not as nomads wandering with no purpose, but as children of God with a heavenly purpose and plan from the Lord. We need not be anxious or worried because He knows the way forward and will lead us if we will only lean on Him. So, no matter the seasons of life that we step in and out of, the Lord will surely be with us. “A man’s heart plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps” (Proverbs 16:9 NKJV). When I follow Him and stay close by His side, I don’t need to worry about where the road leads or what new adventures may be around the next bend! I just step into my old boots and start walking, my hand in His.
Dorothy Teague
Gò0dNews
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We believe when people are equipped, motivated, and passionately engaged in living out their faith in Jesus Christ they 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.
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What: We believe that it is important to laugh together, praise each other, encourage one another, and to 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!
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for Health & Fitness
The Most Important Exercise for Fat Loss
by Thomas Morrison
Many believe that plenty of “fat burning” cardiovascular exercise is the best way to take off weight fast—and while that can have some value, it would not be the best exercise for that purpose. The best exercise to do while on a weight loss diet is actually weight training! Let me explain why.
Weight Training Prevents Muscle Loss While Dieting.
The reality is that most people can only burn an average of about 5-10 calories per minute in any form of exercise. With over 3,500 calories stored in every pound of fat, it is necessary to put in an average of 6-11 hours of exercise just to burn one pound! This is why the primary method to burn fat is your diet—NOT your exercise program. The main purpose of your exercise program is NOT to burn calories— it is to preserve muscle!
In general, without weight training, you will lose at least three pounds of lean weight out of every 10 total pounds you lose. And doing aerobic exercise like walking, jogging, and the like does not help. Back in 1999, researchers put overweight men on a 1500 calorie a day diet, and divided them into three groups—one that didn’t exercise, another that performed aerobic exercise three days a week, and a third that did both aerobic exercise and weight training three days a week. The results: Each of the groups lost almost the same amount of weight—about 21 pounds. But the lifters shed 5 more pounds of fat than those who didn’t pump iron. Why? Because their
weight loss was almost pure fat, while the other two groups lost just 15 pounds of fat, along with several pounds of lean body mass (aka muscle).
Just because your scale weight may show similar results whether you exercise or not, don't assume that the right kind of exercise isn't providing a significant benefit. The diet + weight training group lost 25% more fat than just dieting alone, or even dieting + aerobic exercise! Remember, muscle burns fat. And one pound of muscle takes up 18 percent less space on your body than a pound of fat. Hear that ladies? Hit weights when you diet—they’ll make you smaller, not bigger!
Weight Training Helps Preserve Your Resting Metabolism
Dieting and weight loss, by its nature, will cause your metabolism to drop—so anything that you can do to keep it burning hot is a step in the right direction. In fact, your resting metabolism will account for at least 2/3rd of all the calories you burn! And there is no more time efficient way to boost your metabolism than by weight training. Even training as little as three times a week for 20-30 minutes each time can help boost metabolism close to an additional 100 calories per day! The typical woman would have to walk a couple miles daily to get the same net calorie burn, and yet, she still wouldn’t lose as much fat without weight training!
Weight Training Improves Your Body Shape
The primary reason most people diet or try to lose fat is not simply to record a lower number on the scale—that is quite incidental. No, what most people want is to look better and be happier with their physique. As we have seen, simply dieting or doing cardio will cause you to lose both fat and muscle so that the end result is just a smaller fat person. At best you will be “skinny-fat”— smaller and thinner than before, but still soft and flabby rather than hard and lean. Weight training helps you to optimize body composition rather than just losing weight indiscriminately. Instead of just becoming smaller, you actually get leaner. So don’t wait to get lean, use weights!
Thomas Morrison is the fitness coordinator and a personal trainer at Bradley Wellness Center in Dalton, Georgia, where he has served for the past 23 years.
