August 2014

Gò0dNews August 2014

Complimentary

Christian Magazine

• WHAT ABOUT HEAVENLY REWARDSp.6 • HELP!p.34 • LAWSON BATESp.44

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contents 20

28

44

Where?

GoodNews from the Pastor’s Desk GoodNews for Health & Fitness

6

What about Heavenly Rewards?

by Pastor Steve Smartt

GoodNews for Kids

8

Something To Give

GoodNews on Money Matters 10 Are you in the “Middle Class”?

by Andrew Lee GoodNews for Him 12 It’s my way or the highway;

I know what I’m doing!

by Brian Wetherill GoodNews for Her

14 Live Your Life Like the

Diamond That You Are

by Melanie Lewis

GoodNews for Parents

20 Supermom ... Where?

by Anne Gruber

GoodNews for Life

22 A Love Story

by Beth Henderson

24 To Age or Not to Age

by Pastor Zona Hayes-Morrow

GoodNews for Teens

26 Identity in Christ: The

Formative Power of The Cross

by Joel Rogers

GoodNews Cover Story 28 Companion Funeral Home

by Trae Cody GoodNews for Everyone

30 Our Journey from

Heartache to Healing (Part 1)

by Karri Goins

GoodNews for Couples

32 Grace, Peace, and Joy

GoodNews for Everyone

38 Sowing a Harvest of Righteousness

by Dave Carringer

GoodNews for Everyone

40 Theology by Nightlight

by Darren Schalk

GoodNews for your Taste Buds

42Kielbasa Italian!

by James Richardson

GoodNews for Everyone

44 Lawson Bates

by Lawson Bates

GoodNews for Everyone

46 A New Life in Christ

by Dana Jones

GoodNews for Everyone

by Don Smith

50 When God Says “Yes”

GoodNews for Seniors

GoodNews from the Outdoors

34 Help!

by Esmerelda Lee

GoodNews for Everyone

36 The Struggle

by Kelly Hixson

by Teresa Mustar

52 Always an Adventure

by Rev. Rusty Asble

GoodNews for Everyone

54 You Can Be Perfect Too!

by Samuel Burger

God Bless You and Thank You! Writers Pastor Steve Smar Pastor Zona Hayes-Morrow Pastor Samuel Burger Rev. Rusty Asble Andrew Lee Beth Henderson Esmerleda Lee Dave Carringer James Richardson Darren Schalk Dana Jones Teresa Mustar Lawson Bates Brian Wetherill Melanie Lewis Anne Gruber Joel Rogers Trae Cody Karri Goins Don Smith Kelly Hixson

Cover Photo Melinda Nicodemus

Delivery

About Us 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 three beautiful children, Brendon, Kailey, and Andrew. We live in Cleveland 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!

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Distribution 7500 Monthly

Editor Matthew and Bethany Ruckman

Phone #: 423-503-1410 E-mail: goodnewstn@gmail.com Website: issuu.com/goodnewscm

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.

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Gò0dNews from the Pastors Desk

What About Heavenly Rewards?

By: Steve Smar

A

sincere love for Christ and an awareness of His grace should lead us to accomplish great things for the kingdom of God. But let’s not forget that there are rewards for this Kingdom work and we can look forward to receiving them in heaven. While it is certainly virtuous to be diligent in our efforts simply to bring honor and glory to Christ, there is no shame in longing for the final blessings to be granted as a result of our labors. There will be rewards in heaven for faithful service just as there are rewards here today that lead to further opportunities to serve.

In Luke 19, Jesus provides an illustration of this promise in the parable of the ten minas. Realizing that the people were expecting God’s kingdom to come at once, Jesus spoke of a nobleman who left his servants to become a king, but with instructions that they should expect his return. The man made it clear that while he was away his wealth should be used properly through their faithfulness (see vv.

12-14).

Though the nobleman’s kingship was met with opposition, he was eventually made king. Upon his return home, the servants who had been entrusted with his riches were called to give account of how they had handled his wealth placed in their trust. As they came 6

August 2014

forward, the first and second servants reported their success in meeting his expectations, and they were joyfully rewarded. Therein is a picture of joyful reward.

Arthur T. Pierson once quoted, “…in the ma er of salvation works are altogether excluded; yet that so far as the rewards of grace are concerned, in the world to come, there is an intimate connection between the life of the Christian here and the enjoyment and the glory in the day of Christ’s appearing.”

Jesus is that nobleman and we are His servants. He has entrusted us with the wealth of the Gospel and expects us to invest it generously to allow its bountiful return. As wise stewards of the truth, imagine the excitement of the response, “Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things.

Come and share your master’s happiness!” (Ma 25:21 NIV). Thus, our faithfulness will be rewarded, not only in eternity, but also now through opportunities for service, granting additional opportunities for even greater rewards.

However, just as faithfulness pleases our King, unfaithfulness brings His disappointment.

The parable continues with one servant’s unfaithfulness and we see here that when we are unfaithful

and refuse to seize opportunities of service, we displease our Lord.

The reality of this will be witnessed in eternity, the weight of which Martin Luther understood when he said, “I shall on the Last Day, after the sentence has been pronounced, not only gladly have suffered ordinary temptations, insults, and imprisonment, but I shall also say: ‘O, that I did not throw myself under the feet of all the godless for the sake of the great glory which I now see revealed and which has come to me through the merit of Christ!’”

Who then would have an answer to the devastating question, “Why didn’t you. . . .?” from the one who did not consider His own life when laying it down for your salvation!

Just as the unfaithful servant lost his reward to the faithful, so we lose our joyful reward each day as we fail to honor Christ in our lives through service to His name. Judgment awaits those who reject Him, but loss confronts unfaithful Christians each day. Let us, therefore, be found faithful in our Kingdom work that God may be glorified, and we might receive His bountiful reward today and for eternity.

Pastor Steve Smar is the Senior Pastor at Westwood Baptist Church.

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Gò0dNews for Kids

Something To Give Luke 21:1-4

“Are you ready for church?” Clark’s mother asked him.

you talking to me about what I give at church?”

Clark asked.

“As soon as I tie my shoes,” said Clark, who wanted everyone in the family to know he could do it himself.

“Because you need to learn how to give if you are going to enjoy life,” his mother said.

“Do you have your money for the offering?” his mother asked.

“Those who always put themselves first do not enjoy life.”

“No,” Clark said. “Will you give me some?”

“But I don’t have anything to give today!” said Clark.

“I gave you your allowance yesterday,” said his mother. “You know you are to use part of it for your offering.”

“Then I will lend you 50 cents,” said his mother.

“Next Saturday your allowance will be 50 cents less.”

“But I spent it all at the school picnic,” said Clark.

Some Questions 1. What part of your money do you use to help others?

2. Do you enjoy giving to God when you worship?

3. Does even the small amount given by a child help the church?

“You should have taken out your offering for God before you went to the picnic,” his mother said.

“I only give 50 cents anyway,” Clark said. “It won’t make any difference if I miss this Sunday.”

“The amount you give is not as important as why you give it,” said his mother. “Giving shows that God is important in your life.”

“God’s important to me. But so was the school picnic.”

“We want you to enjoy the picnic and other things,” his mother said. “But we also want you to plan how you spend your money. If you take your offering out of your allowance first, you will be making God a part of all that you do.”

“Is God a part of the school picnic?” asked Clark.

“Of course!” said his mother. “Jesus is with us all the time. He wants us to enjoy life.”

“Then why are

8

August 2014

A Prayer Thank you, God for the money I have. Help me to spend it, give it, and save it in the right way. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

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Gò0dNews on Money Matters

Are You in the “Middle Class”?

By: Andrew Lee F

or many Americans, the measuring stick of whether we are doing well financially or not usually has been how we measure up to our notion of the “middle class.” After all, if we’re at least in the middle class, we can’t be doing too shabbily, can we? More often than not, wealth or penury is relative in essence—meaning we tend to compare ourselves to others in order to determine if we’re doing well or not financially. If we sense that we’re doing be er than many or most of our neighbors, coworkers, relatives, and peers, then we’re apt to congratulate ourselves that we are on the right track financially (or at least we’re not doing too badly).

On the other hand, if we perceive to be poor compared to our neighbors or other peers, then we are likely to have a great deal of dissatisfaction, feeling financially inferior on the socioeconomic scale. Ironically, some of the criteria we often use to determine our “rung on the financial ladder” may be completely irrelevant or misguided.

For instance, if we see what looks to be a new BMW or Mercedes at a traffic light next to us, we

might conclude that the driver is ultra wealthy and financially secure. But we may not realize that according to statistics, the majority of these new luxury cars are leased and not actually owned by their drivers, so there may be very li le correlation between the driver’s car and his or her net worth.

What precisely does the middle class look like these days? Here are some statistics from a recent article from money.cnn.com: The middle-class American household in 2012 earned a median annual income of $51, 017.

That’s not per worker; that’s per household (probably a married couple jointly). Today the category middle class is further divided into subcategories of “lower middle class” and “upper middle class.”

But what about the middle of the middle class? According to the money. cnn.com article, the middle of the middle class earns an annual salary in the range of $39,764 to $64, 582.

Beyond annual salary, the median wealth (net worth) of the

American household for 2010 was $77,300. In addition, many readers may find it strange (even absurd) that many couples who earned between $200,000 to $400,000 per year honestly considered themselves middle class.

How is this possible? The answer is that they compared their own financial situation to the super rich who have incomes well above a million dollars per year. Compared to those super rich, these lower rich honestly saw themselves as middle class. Again, it’s all relative. Whom are you comparing yourself to?

The Bible instructs us to be content with what we have and not to go around disgruntled or envious in an endless pursuit to keep up with the Joneses. Jesus tells us to “seek first God’s kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well” (Ma . 6:33)—meaning our material possessions and needs will follow if we seek God’s will for our lives first and keep that as our focus.

Moreover, in Philippians 4:12-13, Paul writes, “I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.” When we’re thinking about our place in relation to the middle class and what we consider to be normal, remember that the average American household has over $16,000 in credit card debt.

Do we really want to be like everybody else? Is that the financially wise decision? “Whoever loves money never has money enough; whoever loves wealth is never satisfied with his income. This too is meaningless” (Ecc. 5:10).

Dr. Andrew Lee is Associate Profes-

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August 2014

sor of English at Lee University. He also serves as a coordinator for Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University.

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Gò0dNews for Men

It’s My Way or the Highway; I Know What I’m Doing!

By: Brian Wetherill

W

e’ve all heard this line; perhaps we’ve even said it a few times ourselves. How many times have we witnessed individuals bent on their own ideas or stubbornness in doing something only to see their choices cause damage along the way? In life we face situations that require assistance from others; and the opportunity to choose a different direction than what we had planned is totally up to us to make. Hopefully, you will not be so bullheaded as the fellow in this picture, because his choices right now are going to alter his life in so many ways.

Think about what Jesus had to go through with His disciples. Peter, for example, was a mighty man who had a zeal and passion for Christ; yet, he denied Christ three times when faced with choosing to be named as one of the disciples (see Ma . 26:69-74). We can also look at Judas, one whom Jesus called to be a disciple and who experienced the miracles of that day; yet, Judas chose to betray Christ over a few coins (see Ma . 27:3). You may say, “I haven’t denied Christ in ways like those disciples,” but yet you have.

There have been opportunities for you to speak a work of encouragement and you didn’t. Or maybe you had a tug of the heart to confess a sin to a brother and chose not to do so

because of what you thought he might think about you afterwards. Perhaps you have been cold and brash in how you talked with your wife or family instead of being understanding and cordial to them.

It is important, men, to learn to see the errors of our ways and then learn to change those habits into something productive and glorious for the cause of Christ. If we continue the path of least resistance, the ultimatum is a severe washout in our lives. We will lose more credibility, integrity, and honor than we realize. I urge you to take a step back, evaluate your life, thoughts, and relationships. Ask the hard questions and be real in the answers.

• What is it in your life that needs to be changed?

• How do you interact with your family, or do you interact with them?

• Are you the same guy at church, or do you put on the facade of a stable man?

I know this may be a hard devotion, and I’m speaking directly into my life as well on this subject.

As men of God, we must make choices that are generational changers, and hopefully the ones we make are great choices! My hope and prayer is that you are willing to open your heart and listen to God and listen to your loved ones.

Brian Wetherill is Married 25 years 12

August 2014

to Michelle Wetherill, 2 sons (Bradley 19 and Blake 14). Members at Westmore COG, Supervisor of Special Projects @ Lee University. Avid bow hunter, enjoy anything outdoors.

The many faces of hospice care Maybe when you think of hospice care, you think of elderly patients. You may not realize that Hospice of Chattanooga also provides end-of-life care to people of all ages, right here in our community.

Like a young mother with an aggressive form of breast cancer, a teen who has had a devastating traffic accident, or a premature baby clinging to life.

These are also the faces of hospice care.

Hospice of Chattanooga provides medical, emotional and spiritual support to these patients and their families, helping them make the most of the time they have together.

Please be a part of our mission. Your donation will ensure that no one who needs our care is ever turned away. Please mail your check to The Hospice of Chattanooga Foundation at the address to the right, or make a donation online at www.hospiceofchattanooga.org.

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Gò0dNews for Women

Live Your Life Like the Diamond That You Are H ow many times have you glanced in the mirror this week, only to find every wrinkle or blemish on your face or what you think is a flaw on your body? The world tries to tell us that our values and self-worth are based strictly on our outward appearance and has nothing to do with our heart. This implies that we are only desirable if we are sexy, skinny, rich, and successful.

This image is spewing from every television commercial and is plastered across magazine covers at retail establishments across the world. With our heads down and struggling with self-worth, we carry our purchased items out to our car feeling insecure and focusing on all our imperfections. By the time we arrive home, we’ve already searched out the cost of evasive surgeries and beauty enhancements on our smart phones. Am I right? God, however, has placed a standard in our lives that is the right way to value ourselves. When we don’t truly understand our worth and value, we live a life that is not only unpleasant, but also is displeasing to God. God compares the Proverbs 31 Woman to a beautiful, sparkling diamond. I find it interesting that diamonds are one of the most sought-after commodities on earth. They are precious, costly, valuable, cherished, pure, and durable. The word diamond is derived from the Greek word Adamas, which means invincible. As one of the hardest minerals in the world, a diamond is made up of a single element called carbon. They are dazzling and have always fascinated women. Many express

14

August 2014

By: Melanie Lewis

great love for someone by gifting that person with a diamond. It also teaches us that a virtuous woman is most desired and sought after by a real man of God¾just like a treasured diamond.

Just as we polish and care for the diamonds we own, God takes care of us and polishes our lives for His service. We are valuable, beautiful, and spotless in God’s eyes. Just as a gemologist painstakingly picks out the beautiful gemstones and the jeweler creates a unique piece of each one, we were created uniquely and designed specifically for a special purpose that only we can fulfill.

When you’re in God’s presence, acknowledging, worshiping and praising Him, He whispers sweet nothings in your ears. He tells you how much He loves you and how special you are in His eyes. You are fearfully and wonderfully made just as His Word tells us.

With Jesus, you don’t have to look like a Victoria’s Secret model. He sees the beauty in every freckle, blemish, and whatever blemish you think is a flaw. He painstakingly thought out every intricate cell in your body even before He formed you in your mother’s womb, and He thinks that you are absolutely breathtaking.

How will you live out your worth starting today and continuing for the rest of your life? Sparkle and shine like the DAZZLING DIAMOND you are!

Melanie Lewis is the author of numerous articles written for a variety of Christian publications. A native of Tennessee she has worked in the fields of both newspaper and radio and is currently writing her first non-fiction.

Cleveland Church Directory Assembly of God

Grace Assembly 1976 Westland Dr SW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-7729 Triune Assembly 301 Sunset Drive Cleveland, TN 37312

Baptist Beacon Baptist Church 505 Corvin Rd NE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 472-7056 Big Spring Baptist Church 1415 Hardwick St SE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-1101 Bellefounte Baptist Church Pastor Lake Walker 132 Bellfounte Rd NE, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 336-2312 Bethel Baptist Tabernacle Pastor John Bivens 3165 Buchanan Rd SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 479-5820 Blue Springs Baptist Church 699 Blue Springs Church Rd SW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-0932F Candies Creek Church 294 Old Eureka Rd Charleston, TN 37310 423-479-3731 candiescreekchurch.com Cedar Springs Baptist Church 723 Cedar Springs Church Rd SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 479-5506 Center Point Baptist Church 167 Monza Ln NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 336-2133 Cleveland Cowboy Church Pastor Wally Varnell 3040 Blythe Rd. Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-7936 or clevelandcowboychurch.com Cloverleaf Baptist Church Pastor Johnny Moore 2290 Waterlevel Highway Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 339-3617 Clingan Ridge Baptist Church 2412 Georgetown Road, NW Cleveland, TN 37312(423) 472-3511 or www.clinganridgebaptist.com Church At Grace Point Pastor Phil Griffin 2595 Old Freewill Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 728-5050 or grace-point.com Covenant Baptist Church 249 Calhoun Rd SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 559-2653 Dalton Pike Baptist Church

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August 2014

3055 Benton Pike NE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 472-7606 Elkmont Baptist Church 4030 Old Freewill Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 479-4600 Emmanuel Baptist Church 1227 Powerline Dr NE, Cleveland, TN 37323 East Cleveland Baptist Church 1145 Arnold St NE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-8728 Farmland Community Church Location: YMCA 10:00am Fairview Baptist Church 5545 Runway Dr NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 790-5353 First Baptist Church Co-Pastor Allan Lockerman, Co-Pastor-Jim Gibson 1275 Stuart Road Cleveland, Tennessee 37312 (423)709-9100 or clevelandfbc.com Galilee Baptist Church 665 Old Chattanooga Pike SW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 496-2019 Henegar Baptist Church 7423 Mouse Creek Rd. Cleveland Tn 37312 Hopewell Baptist Church 188 Old Georgetown Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 479-3763 The Journey Church 1668 S Lee Hwy, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 728-4100 Lebanon Baptist Church 1411 Old Parksville Rd NE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 479-6700 Macedonia Baptist Church 3119 Spring Place Rd SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 479-1713 Maple Street Baptist Church 1700 Maple St NE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 478-3622 Maranatha Baptist Church 453 Blue Springs Ln SE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 614-8991 Michigan Avenue Baptist Church 2741 Benton Pike NE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 472-8891 Mt Carmel Baptist Church 7619 Blue Springs Rd, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 479-1620 New Friendship Baptist Church 1344 Chatata Valley Rd NE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 476-6007 North Cleveland Baptist Church Pastor Dr. Jay Mccluskey

2815 Ocoee St N, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 476-8524 or northclevelandbaptist.org Oak Grove Baptist Church 4452 Bates Pike SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 479-9125 Old Pathway Baptist Church 224 Rymer Rd NE, Cleveland, TN 37323 Parkway Baptist Church Rev. Shane Lawson 185 Meadow Ln SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 339-5522 or www.parkwaybaptist.info Philadelphia Baptist Church 910 30th St SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 Philippi Baptist Church 2325 Old Harrison Pike NW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 479-5385 Pleasant Grove Missionary Baptist Church 799 Inman Street East Cleveland, Tennessee 37311 (423) 476-4081 Ridgeview Baptist Church 1501 S Ocoee St, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-5119 Samples Memorial Baptist Church 371 Samples Chapel Rd SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 476-2329 Shenandoah Baptist Church Pastor Brent Coley 138 Osment Rd Se, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 339-0103 or www.sbcministries.com Shiloh Baptist Church 3406 Blair Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 479-5755 Stuart Park Baptist Church 850 17th St NW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-6741 Tasso Baptist Church 164 Old Charleston Rd NE, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 559-2114 Temple Baptist Church 3070 Harrison Pike, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-6813 Thompson Spring Baptist Church 5660 Bates Pike SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 790-1823 Union Baptist Church 797 Hughes Lake Rd SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 559-1720 Valley View Baptist Church Pastor David Tuten 4657 Spring Place Rd SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 472-7707 or vvbaptist.org

Washington Avenue Baptist Church 1720 Perry St SE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-0489 Waterville Baptist Church Pastor Allan Lovelace 4555 Dalton Pike SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 472-5582 or watervillebaptistchurch.org West Cleveland Baptist Church 1959 Westland Dr SW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-8927 Westwood Baptist Church Pastor Steve Smartt 4001 Georgetown Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 472-1534 or www.westwoodlife.org White Oak Baptist Church 2043 White Oak Valley Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 559-2359

Catholic St Therese Catholic Church 900 Clingan Ridge Dr NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 476-8123

Charismatic Cleveland Christian Fellowship Pastor Mark Strickland 695 S Ocoee St, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-2642 or ccfchurch.us

Church of God Cornerstone Church of God Pastor Rick and Lori Sentell 2823 Lee Hwy, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 478-0006 Church of God Sanctified, Inc. Pastor- Bishop G.R. Hill 746 First Street N.E. Cleveland, TN. 37311 (423)479-3895 Destiny Community Fellowship CoG 2611 Blue Springs Road SE Cleveland, TN 37311 East Cleveland Church of God Pastor John A. Lombard Jr. 900 15th St NE Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 479-3389 Fellowship of Praise COG Pastor Selma Hall 931 Inman Street East Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 479-3121 or fellowshipofpraisecog.org Grace Community Church of God Pastor Kevin Mendel 4745 Mouse Creek Road NW, Cleveland, TN 37312.

(423) 614-0708 or www.gracecleveland.org Heritage Fellowship COG Pastor Steve Gilbert 4635 S Lee Hwy

McDonald, TN 37353 (423) 476-6316 International Worship Center Centro Internacional de Adoración 533 Central Ave. NE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-1977 or www.iwcchurch.com Lakeview Church of God Pastor Dustin Wilds 105 Pound Street S.E. Cleveland, TN 37323 (423)-790-5805 or lakeviewcog.org North Cleveland COG Pastor Mitch Maloney 335 11th St NE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-5513 or nccog.org Michigan Avenue COG Rev. David B. Boles 515 Minnis Road N.E (423) 584-3663 Mt Olive COG 3522 Harrison Pike, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 479-3381 Mt View COG 210 Roadway Dr SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 472-6925 South Cleveland COG Pastor Chris Moody 1846 Volunteer Dr SW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-6382 or southcleveland.org Westmore COG Pastor Kelvin Page 2412 Wolfe Dr NW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 559-9646 or www.westmorecog.org Zion Assembly COG Pastor Todd Mcdonald 5512 Waterlevel Hwy, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 476-3337 or zionassemblychurchofgod.com/

Church of God of Prophecy Cleveland Spanish CoGoP 2610 Grove Ave. Cleveland, TN 37312 (423)473-7199 Durkee Road CoGoP 201Durkee Rd. Cleveland, TN37312 (423) 472-4384 Keith Street Ministries CoGoP 4000 Keith ST. NW Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 476-2448 Peerless Road CoGop 3301 Peerless Rd. NW Cleveland, TN 37312 (423)303-2680 Spring Place CoGoP 2530 Spring Place Rd. Cleveland, TN37311 (423)476-6414 Wildwood CoGoP Bishop Winston Reid 140 Wildwood Ave Cleveland, TN 37311 (423)479-6584

Episcopal

Saint Luke’s Episcopal Church 320 Broad St NW, Cleveland, TN 37311

Lutheran LutheranFirst Lutheran Church 195 McIntire Ave NE, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 472-6811

Methodist Big Spring United Methodist 1196 Hardwick St SE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-5242 Black Fox United Methodist 1820 Old Chattanooga Pike SW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 339-1908 Broad Street United Methodist 155 Central Ave NW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-5586 First United Methodist Church 3425 Ocoee St N, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 476-4504 S. Cleveland United Methodist 1165 Church St SE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 507-5760 Tasso United Methodist 1106 Tasso Ln NE, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 479-4457 Riverston Church 85 Central Ave NE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 790-5956 Trinity United Methodist Church 731 1st St SE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 614-7900 Valley Head Methodist Church 920 Mouse Creek Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 472-0575 Wesley Memorial Methodist 3405 Peerless Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 472-9578

Latter-day Saints The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 4200 Pryor Rd N.E. Cleveland, TN 37312 423-503-6394

Pentecostal

Faith Memorial Church 910 17th St NW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-6281 First United Pentecostal Church 4095 Peerless Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 476-9436 Full Gospel House of Prayer Pastor Michael Ferree 1500 Wildwood Ave. Cleveland, TN Set Free Christian Fellowship 1175 King Edwards Ave. Cleveland, TN

Nazarene Cleveland First Church Of The Nazarene Pastor BJ Miller 2712 Henderson Ave. Cleveland, TN 37312-5225 423-472-7371 New Hope Church of the Nazarene Pastor Scot Carraway 2018 Washington Ave Cleveland, TN 37364 (423)479-7343

Non-Denominational

Christian Fellowship Ctr 895 6th St NE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 479-9591 Church Alive Ministries Cleveland, TN 37353 (423) 559-1371 Cleveland Community Chapel Pastor Tazz Reid 1823 Forest Ridge Dr. Cleveland, Tn. 37311 Cleveland Cornerstone Church 533 Broad St NW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 479-1775 Cornerstone Family Church 4997 N. Lee Highway Cleveland, TN 37312 423.380.9160 cfctn.net Dwelling Place Church Inter.Pastors Jamie and Judy JacobsTuttle 523 Urbane Rd. NE Cleveland, TN 37312 423.790.5200 www.iwilldwell.com Evening Light Gospel Dr. Donald E. Smith, Jr. 200 20th St SE Cleveland, TN 37311 Freedom Fellowship Church 3555 Blue Springs Rd, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 478-0654 God’s Family Fellowship Pastors, Doug & Patsy Bell 197 Neely Circle NE Cleveland, TN 37312 Phone (423) 790-7533 www.godsfamilyfellowship.net Graceway Chapel 221 14th St NW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 728-2226 Living Word Church Pastor Larry Cockerham 930 25th Street, NW Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 339-3028 or Thelovingchurch.org Norvel Hayes Ministries 24 155 S Ocoee St, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-3882 Restoration Fellowship 211 Trewhitt Dr SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 479-4249 The Simple Gospel 850 Elrod St SE

Cleveland, TN 37311 423-650-9572 www.pointing2jesus.com Shema Israel Ministry 850 Elrod St SE Cleveland, TN 37311 423-994-8553 Tasso Christian Church 1135 Tasso Lane, Cleveland, Tn. 37312 (423) 479-2705 The Sanctuary Pastors Mike & Elizabeth Shreve 1203 Smith Dr. Cleveland, TN 37311 (423)478-2843 / shreveministries. org United Christian Church Pastors Charles and Margie Poteat 2200 Peerless Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 479-4277 Unity Christian Ministries Pastor Aubrey Ector 2419 Georgetown RD NW 37312 423-473-9338 Walker Valley Community 787 Lauderdale Memorial Hwy Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 336-9696

Presbyterian

Charleston Cumberland Presbyterian Church 8267 N Lee Hwy, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 336-5004 First Cumberland Presbyterian Church 161 2nd St NE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-6751 First Presbyterian Church 433 N Ocoee St, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-5584 Flint Springs Cumberland Presbyterian Church Rev. Kevin Wilson 515 Flint Springs Rd Cleveland TN. 37323 423-284-6397 or Facebook Prospect United Cumberland Presbyterian Church 310 New Murraytown Rd., NW Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 476-6181 St James Cumberland Presbyterian Church 151 Short St NE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-5762 Trinity Presbyterian Church 1780 Stuart Rd NE, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 559-9595

Seventh Day Adventist Ladd Springs Seventh-Day 5860 Bates Pike SE Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 476-1889 Bowman Hills Adventist 300 Westview Dr NE Cleveland, TN 37312

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17

Athens Church Directory Assembly of God Abundant Blessing 2613 Cardinal St Athens, TN 37303 423-649-0350

Baptist Antioch Baptist Church 218 Canal St. Athens, TN 37303 423-745-3332 Central Baptist 13 Nash Dr. Athens, TN 37303 423-745-0400 Clearwater Baptist 964 County Rd. Athens, TN 37303 423-744-7147 Covenant Baptist 241 County Rd Athens, TN 37303 423-263-1569 East Athens Baptist 301 Central Ave Athens, TN 37303 423-745-1394 Fairview Baptist 251 County Rd. 128 Athens, TN 37303 423-649-0346 First Baptist 305 Ingleside Athens, TN 37303 423-745-5441 First Bible Baptist 1819 Old Niota Athens, TN 37303 423-745-0765 Freedom Baptist 2207 Velma Rd Athens, TN 37303 423-746-0193 Mount Pleasant Baptist 414 Chester St. Athens, TN 37303 423-745-6510 Idelwild Baptist 118 county rd Athens, TN 37303 423-746-0002 Lakeview Baptist 182 County rd. 126 Athens, TN 37303 423-745-0451 Mount Pleasant Baptist 414 Chester St. Athens, TN 37303 423-745-6510 Mount Verd Baptist 251 County Rd 249 Athens, TN 37303 423-507-1286 New Hopewell Baptist 197 County Rd Athens, TN 37303

18

August 2014

423-744-0940 New Zion Baptist 393 County Rd 616 Athens, TN 37303 423-263-9841 North Athens Baptist 402 Tellico Ave Athens, TN 37303 423-745-3813 Oak Grove Baptist 1212 County Rd. 100 Athens, TN 37303 423-744-9986 Parkway Baptist 1701 Velma Rd Athens, TN 37303 423-745-9709 Rocky Mount Baptist 1002 Rocky Mount Rd Athens, TN 37303 423-745-8758 Rogers Creek Baptist 510 County Rd 180 Athens, TN 37303 423-744-0295 Short Creek Baptist 892 County Rd. 50 Athens, TN 37303 423-336-5089 South Liberty Baptist 505 County Rd 655 Athens, TN 37303 423-745-5124 Union Hill Baptist 258 County Rd Athens, TN 37303 423-745-1241 Unity Baptist 162 County Rd 750 Athens, TN 37303 423-744-0420 Valley View Baptist 323 County Rd 370 Athens, TN 37303 423-745-5159 West End Baptist 803 Clark St. Athens, TN 37303 423-744-8274 West View Baptist 2707 Highway 39 Athens, TN 37303 423-745-2193

Catholic St. Mary Catholic Church 1291 E. Madison Ave. Athens, TN 37303 423-745-4277

Christian Athens Christian Church 802 S Matlock Ave Athens, TN 37303 423-745-5791

Church of God Aoh Church Of God 501 Ohio St Athens, TN 37303 423-745-1279 First Church of God 200 Fisher St. Athens, TN 37303 423-887-5855 Woodward Avenue CoG 507 Woodward Ave Athens, TN37303 423-745-1618

Community ChristCommunity Church 14 Congress PRKY S. Athens, TN 37303 423-745-8185

Latter-day Saints The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormons) 508 Cedar Springs Rd Athens, TN 373 423-745-0102

Nazarene Athens Church of the Nazarene 1908 W. Madison Ave. Athens, TN 37303 423-744-3017

Episcopal St Paul Episcopal Church 123 S. Jackson ST. Athens, TN 37303 423-745-2224

Lutheran Athens Lutheran Church 710 Forrest Ave. Athens, TN 37303 423-745-9419

Methodist Keith Memorial UMC 600 W Madison Ave. Athens, TN 37371 423-745-2612 Piney Grove UMC 767 County Rd. 750 423-462-2130 Athens, TN 37303 Riceville 2519 Cindy St Athens, TN 37303 423-462-2130 St. Mark Ame Zion Methodist 707 N. Jackson St Athens, TN 37303 Tranquility UMC 135 County Rd. 177 Athens, TN 37303 423-334-3062 Trinity UMC 100 E. College St Athens, TN 37303

423-745-0452 Vine Grove UMC 517 County Rd. 778 Athens, Tn 37303 423-507-5760

Non- Denominational Ascension Life 935 Rocky Mount Rd Athens, TN 37303 423-829-5102 Christian Freedom Wrshp Center 109 Cherry St Athens, TN 37303 423-745-8999 Emmanuel Church 1905 Congress Parkway S. Athens, TN 37303 423-745-0851 Freedom Chapel 815 Cleveland Ave. Athens, TN 37303 423-745-8079 Great Deliverance Ministries 2329 Clearwater Rd Athens, TN 37303 423-745-7575 Liberty Church 3328 Hwy 11 Athens, TN 37303 423-745-9248 Overcoming Faith Christian 14 Carter Rd Athens, TN 37303 423-745-3105 Restoration Church 3115 Hwy 39 Athens, TN 37303 423-745-7777 Sanctury 9 S. Kilgore St. Athens, TN 37303 423-745-8900

Pentecostal Crosslife Ministries 817 S. White St Athens, TN 37313 423-368-7197 Athens United Pentecostal 2820 Hwy 11 Athens, TN 37303 423-744-7159

Presbyterian First United Presbyterian Church 321 N. Jackson St Athens, TN 37303 423-744-9073 Mars Hill Presbyterian 205 N. Jackson St Athens, TN 37303 423-745-1403

Seveth-Day Adventist Seveth-Day Adventist 230 New Englewood Rd

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Gò0dNews for Parents

Supermom . . . Where?

“S

By: Anne Gruber

upermom! How do you do it? You make having three kids look

What is best for me and my family at any

easy.” I’m always surprised when something like that is said to

given time (e.g. public school, day care,

me! Here’s the thing: I am no supermom and having three kids

nursing) may not be right for someone

ain’t easy.

I was 20 when we got married, and 21 and 22 when we had our first two boys. We discovered we didn’t know nearly as much as we thought we did! It’s like I tell my boys sometimes, “I’ve never been a parent before.

else’s family and vice versa. We’re all just doing the best we can with the babies God has loaned to us.

Above all of that, I am empowered

I’m still learning how this thing works, so sometimes you have to cut me

by the words of Psalm 28:7: “The Lord is

some slack.”

my strength and shield. I trust him with

Between two full-time jobs, teaching three classes at church, pastoring

all my heart. He helps me, and my heart

an outreach chapel, and having two high schoolers and a third grader in

is filled with joy. I burst out in songs of

school and sports, we don’t slow down much. I think those people who

thanksgiving” (NLT).

assume I have it all figured out just don’t see me on the days when I am

Be encouraged today, mamas; you are

overwhelmed (read: ready to pull out my hair). Here are some things I

not alone. We are all in this together, and

have found that help me on the tough days (and the easy ones):

we can do it with the help of the Lord.

1. Admi ing when I’m overwhelmed and cu ing myself some slack.

2. Prioritizing. I can’t do everything, so I choose what’s most important even if it means disappointing someone.

3. Admi ing when I need help. Even if it’s last minute or the middle of the night, I have to set my pride aside.

4. Seeking God’s face for the ability to be merciful to others as He has been to me.

5. Spending time in God’s Word daily.

6. Taking care of myself (spending time with supportive girlfriends, exercising, se ing aside alone time, reading, etc).

7. Taking one day at a time. Ma hew 6 tells us that tomorrow has enough worries of its own.

8. Remembering that I love my kids with every fiber of my being (no ma er how frustrated I get some days).

9. Reminding myself that they are only li le once. I will never have this opportunity again.

10. Submi ing to my husband’s authority in a Biblical manner. My husband is loving, supportive, and patient, and he is most definitely the man of the house. I am still learning this through trial and error, success and failure.

11. Seeking wisdom from other moms who have already raised successful, godly young men.

12. Avoiding the temptation of comparing my life to others. My kids’ successes and failures are their own regardless of what other kids do.

20

August 2014

Anne Gruber has been married to Dewayne for 17 years, is a proud soccer mom to three sons, and is an administrative assistant at the North Cleveland Church of God.

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Gò0dNews for Life

A Love Story

by: Beth Henderson

(A young boy shares his perspective on being adopted.)

I

thought I was going to be telling you the second part of an adoption story this month, but I was wrong. Last month I wrote about the events that led to a local woman adopting her son who was born to a 14-yearold Cleveland girl. I had the opportunity to interview that child this month. He is 11 years old now, and in the few minutes I spent with him, he helped me realize that his story is not an adoption story; it’s a love story.

It’s not the kind of love story we see in the movies, but the kind of love story that should take us all back to the moment that¾if we are believers¾we were adopted into the family of God. Once that happens, we do not continue to define or identify ourselves by where we came from, but by where we are now¾members of a family, safe and secure, not looking back.

Douglas* is like any other 11-year-old boy. He plays basketball every time the weather permits or his school team is playing. He watches professional basketball with his eye on becoming a professional himself some day, although he knows many others have that dream as well. He’s tall, handsome, and intelligent. He loves his family, and he a ends a local church. But unlike most other boys his age, Douglas knows

22

August 2014

that he has a unique family history.

He knows that his birth mother was only three years older than he is now when she gave birth to him, and he knows that his mother, Jo*, brought him home through the miracle of adoption. But he understands, perhaps be er than most, that he is a part of his family

by God’s design and that’s enough.

According to Douglas, his mother told him when he was really young that he was adopted, and he said that made him feel both happy and weird.

“It made me feel

happy that I have the mom that I have, and just weird because I didn’t know that I was adopted until she told me.”

But being adopted is just part of his story, and it’s not something he really thinks about. And while he said it’s weird that people say he looks like his mother Jo, at least right now, he doesn’t wonder if he looks like his birth mother or even about meeting his birth parents.

“I don’t really think about this,” he said. But he does consider the loving words his mother Jo has spoken to him, and they have made a significant impact on his life.

She said, “It’s a miracle and stuff like that. She said that she was happy that she got me.”

He said that makes him feel good, and that being part of his family now has far more to do with who he is than knowing he was adopted. In fact, he said being adopted is just a fact of his life.

“I’m not happy, but I’m not sad. I mean it doesn’t really bother me. I just like to think I never was adopted,” he said. “I couldn’t imagine living without the family that I have.”

Amen, Douglas, amen! *Names have been changed to protect privacy.

Beth Henderson is the

Development Director at New Hope Pregnancy Care Center

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Gò0dNews for Health & Fitness

To Age Or Not To Age By:Zona Hayes-Morrow

W

hen we were young, we all dreamed of growing up and doing all the wonderful things we would finally be able to do. As time went on, we grew up and realized that “growing up” is not all that it’s cracked up to be. We long for the time when our joints didn’t crackle or pop and the only wrinkles we worried about were in our clothes.

Whether we like it or not, time has crept up on us and now we have to face the consequences of how we treat our bodies.

While this may not be too bad for some people, for others, it can be a daunting experience. For the younger among us, you may be able to slow significantly and maybe even stop some of the health issues that arise as we age. For others, there are things you can do to slow down and even improve some of the symptoms of aging you are dealing with.

Your diet is the first thing you need to work on.

I realize that this may be harder for some than for others, but all of us can do something in our diet to improve our health. For instance, there are numerous cases of people who have stopped and even reversed Type 2 diabetes through dietary changes. You have to make a choice: Would you rather be healthy or eat whatever you want whenever you want to?

I’m not saying that you have to completely avoid certain foods that are bad for you. The biggest thing that most people need in regard to their diet is moderation. If you could learn to control your portion 24

August 2014

size and avoid processed foods, these two things alone would make a remarkable change in your health and well-being.

Next, stay active. One of the most basic laws of physics is that it is easier for an object in motion to stay in motion than it is to move a stationary object. This means that it is easier and be er for you to stay active than it would be to become active after a lifestyle of inactivity. In other words: use it or lose it. Physical activity benefits every part of your body, so when your activity levels slows down, so do the health benefits you gain from the activity. You may not be able to regain your former mobility, but any activity can greatly improve your overall health.

Finally, know what’s going on in your body. Many people avoid going to the doctor because they’re afraid of what the doctor will say. Avoiding a diagnosis will not make it go away; it just hinders ge ing the treatment you need to recover. No one would expect a car to work if it wasn’t serviced and taken care of.

The same thing applies to your body. If you want it to last, then you need to take care of it. You can’t stop the aging process, but you can decide how you will age.

Choose wisely!

Pastor Zona Hayes-Morrow is

a successful business woman, mother, bible teacher and Executive Director of Norvel Hayes Ministries.

Southeast District Tennessee Senior Olympics Tentative Dates: September 25 - October 4, 2014 Registration Deadlines: Early Bird - Aug. 29 • Final - Sept. 5 City of Athens Parks & Recreation Dept.

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Gò0dNews for Teens

Identity In Christ:

The Formative Power of The Cross By: Joel Rogers

I

dentity is the unique blueprint of identifying factors that make up who we are as individuals. It is a complex blend of ourselves-our surroundings, our relationships. It is the factors about us that cause others to ‘know’ who we are. In the same way, identity in Christ is comprised of the factors about us that cause others to know whose we are. So then, do we truly understand that who we are is distinct from what we do?

Your identity is not “cashier at Taco Bell,” or “high school student.” Those are things you do.

Your identity is what makes you who you are! Are you loving? Are you generous? Are you humble?

Those things are parts of your identity. Learning, for example, that you have a heart of compassion and a skill and a desire to teach others gives you a starting point. This is where a lot of confusion surfaces. Many Christians begin this process, and after uncovering their gifts, seek to put them into practice immediately, and these gifts become their identity. This is an awful injustice to the fullness of God’s plan!

When a po er is making something from his clay, he begins with a shapeless mass. He gets an idea of what he wants to shape it into, and begins forming it. After forming, it has to be dried in the fire to strengthen it for its tasks. To jump headfirst into the gifts and passions you have without following Christ’s example for what the next step is, would be akin to the po ery half shaped and far from the strengthening heat of the fire, jumping from the po er’s wheel and a empting to let someone use them. We need the 26

August 2014

fullness of God’s process! So what is the next step?

Our next step is to accept the invitation to the cross. It is not an invitation to come and admire Christ’s sacrifice but an invitation to join Christ in being sacrificial. “My old self has been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who lives, but Christ lives in me. So I live . . . in this earthly body by trusting in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me” (Gal. 2:20, NLT).

Jesus extends to us an invitation into His identityan identity that we can only gain my means of the Cross. Not just from Christ’s willingness to lay His life down but also an identity in Christ that develops when we lay our own lives down at the cross. The apostle Paul goes on to explain the identity exchange that happens at the cross: “For you died to this life, and your real life is hidden with Christ in God.” (Col, 3:3 NLT). A proper understanding of “hidden” here is not the idea of you with your identity simply hiding in God, but more accurately that our identity dies, and who we are sorbed, even overcome, by God, who replaces it with the fullness of His identity for us.

This means that our anger, selfishness, and sinfulness get completely replaced by God’s amazing love, compassion, and humility!

Joel Rogers is a loving husband, father and minister. He serves as the director of Youth Programs for The Salvation Army in Cleveland, Tennessee. He and his wife, Cheryl, operate the Inman Street Coffeehouse for The Salvation Army. They have one daughter, Eden, who is two years old.

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FEATURED COVER STORY

Companion Funeral Home Serving Families in Their Time of Need

by Trae Cody

I

n August of 2011, Robbie and Shelli Cody stepped out and took a leap of faith. The success of their new business venture was not guaranteed, and its future was plagued with uncertainty. Nevertheless, with great trust and faith in God, they opened Companion Funeral and Cremation Service (CF&CS).

With limited knowledge in the field of funeral service, the only legs they had to stand on were the kind words of encouragement and support given by loyal customers of their current pet funeral home, Constant Companion Pet Crematory. These same customers provided the thoughts to lay the foundation of CF&CS. They asked Robbie and Shelli throughout the years from November 2008 until the opening of the traditional funeral home in 2011: “Have you considered opening a full-service funeral home? If you took care of my pet in such a respectable manner, I can be assured that you would treat a loved one with the 28 August 2014 same respect.”

A Venture of Faith

At first Robbie was hesitant and simply brushed these thoughts off, as he was content with Constant Companion (CC). He felt he had found a niche in the market of offering a service that, until CC’s existence, was absent in the Cleveland and Bradley County area.

From 2008 to 2011, CC had served well over 7,000 families with pet memorializing, something not considered when first looking at the logistics and plans of the new traditional funeral home venture. This customer base was pivotal in the beginning stages of CF&CS because it spoke to the validity of the business establishment in the community. “We owe every bit of our success early on to those customers and friends who believed in us and helped push us into this foreign territory,” Cody said.

After bridging into the new territory of traditional funeral service, the Cody family was once again facing

uncertainty. The type of funeral services they began with was a bit unconventional. With the opening of the new service, they attempted to cut down on a large part of the overhead by offering more of a “funeral service” rather than a traditional funeral home. CF&CS did all of their preparation and family consultation at their location on Georgetown Road, but they did not have an area for visitation or funeral services; these were held in a family’s church or home.

This business model was a step backward, in a sense, as funerals of the past were held in the family’s home or local church. Cody states: “Having the funerals in a comfortable location allows the family to be in an environment they are used to, which is much more convenient for them.” While some families might have had a bit of uncertainty with this newer model of funeral service, CF&CS maintained a significant number of calls during the first year. From its inception in August 2011 until the end of that calendar year, the funeral service was able to serve more than 40 families a great milestone for such a new type of funeral service and business.

In August 2012 as the business continued to grow, they saw the need to place an on-site crematory on the property. Until this point, they were using a funeral home in Chattanooga to do their cremations. “Having an on-site crematory gives families a sense of closure that their loved one never leaves our care - something a lot of funeral homes cannot offer. Being one of only two funeral homes locally to perform our own cremations gives us a distinct advantage over other firms.”

In addition to the sense of comfort and closure an on-site crematory can offer, it also gives CF&CS more control over the pricing of their cremations. “Other funeral homes are subject to a crematory’s charges, but we are not,” remarked Cody. Building the on-site crematory was the first major step CF&CS made as a business to establish their place in this community.

Christian Ministries Worship Center was fully renovated and is now being used as the chapel for CF&CS. Currently, the chapel can seat about 85-90 individuals for a small service and accommodate two or three times that number for a night visitation.

The facility features a foyer with multiple seating areas, a parlor for receiving friends and funeral services, and a small kitchenette. They use the parking in front of their building, as well as the lot in front of the office.

In addition, a parking area has been cleared off behind the building. Further additions for this facility are in the works, as an area of approximately 1,000 square feet is being finished for a large chapel with pews for funeral services. “We are very pleased to have this area for families to use for funeral services. Occasionally, a family may not have a church facility to use or would simply like a more centralized location. We feel our new chapel fits that need perfectly,” continued Cody.

Over the course of the past three years, Robbie and Shelli attribute their success to the Lord’s blessing and His favor upon their business. “When we started this venture in 2011, we believed that in order for it to be successful, we would have to follow the Lord’s plan for our family. Our goal each day is to continue following that plan and serve the families of our community like one of our own. To our family, this is our ministry.

Every day is an opportunity to serve families in their greatest time of need.”

A New Chapel

Since that point in 2012, their cremation numbers have continued to grow, and they are now pleased to announce another step to further the more traditional side of their business. In June of 2013, CF&CS opened the first part of the new chapel next door to their current Georgetown Road facility. The previous home of Unity

issuu.com/goodnewscm

29

Gò0dNews for Everyone

Our Journey From Heartache To Healing By: Kerri Goins

I

am the mother of three kids-two on earth and one waiting for me in heaven. My husband, Tanner, and I had our son Landon in 2006.

Life was great as a family of three, but we always knew we wanted more children.

In 2011 while a ending nursing school, I became pregnant with Delaney Claire. We were overjoyed that we were having a girl to add to our family! On July 19, 2012, at 27 weeks pregnant, our real journey began at 3:13 in the afternoon via emergency C-section. Delaney Claire Goins entered this world at 1 pound and 2 ounces. Delaney was rushed to the NICU where she remained for the next seven months of her precious life.

We prayed and begged the Lord to make Delaney whole, for God to heal her completely and help her tiny li le lungs and body heal from prematurity.

The first few weeks Delaney thrived, growing and pu ing on weight. Then around five weeks, our rollercoaster began. She became very sick with NEC. Five weeks later, she had surgery to repair the damage from the infection. Then she started to recover and did well. After several surgeries, blood transfusions and infections, starting and stopping feeding due to loosing all of her colon 30

August 2014

(Part 1)

from NEC later, Delaney was doing great. She had finally started to tolerate her feedings and was gaining weight again, which was all steps in the journey home.

We were so excited that after five months. Things were finally turning around for her. Delaney required a trach to keep her airway open due to it being floppy. After her surgery, we were told that she weigh 11 pounds before she can go home on ventilator (she was 6 pounds at this point), so it seemed like that 11-pound mark was so far away.

In January I started back to nursing school to finish my last semester.

February came and we had finally hit 9 pounds and 2 ounces and were so close to home I could taste it. February 16 Delaney starting acting differently and they ran several tests per my request.

On February 17, I had called to check on her on my way to school, and there was no news on the results from the day before. I asked the nurse to call me as soon as she knew something. I was in class and had heard no word from Erlanger, so I called back and the nurse let me talk to the nurse practitioner who explained that Delaney had now developed pulmonary hypertension; she was very sick and we needed to come to the hospital.

When we got there they proceeded to tell us how bad her condition was. I just wanted to be with my girl; I didn’t want to hear it. I kept asking, “How could God have brought her through everything to take her away?”

The next morning her condition worsened and they had us call our families. For two solid days, Delaney Claire was surrounded by the love and comfort of her family and our friends.

Then on Sunday, February 19 at seven months old, Tanner and I had to do what no parent ever should have to do.

We held our baby while she went to heaven. We sang “Jesus Loves Me” to her as she went to heaven.

Faith is all that brought Tanner, Landon, and me through losing Delaney. We hold tightly to the belief that pain and sorrow may come in the night, but joy¾real joy¾comes in the morning! (see Ps. 30:5). Amen! She was such a big miracle in such a li le girl.

In May 2012, I earned my RN degree.

Kerri Goins is a registered nurse. She and her husband have 3 children, 2 on earth and one in heaven.

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Gò0dNews for Couples

Grace, Peace, & Joy By: Don Smith

T

hree words come to mind when I think about the topic of couples: grace, peace, and joy. At the risk of sounding 1950ish (once a man and a woman have been united, God wants them to stay together), we think it would be be er, easier, and more desirable to start over with someone else. That, however, does not work. Just look at the stats (I don’t need to state them; you’ve heard them countless times). Separation, divorce, or whatever word you choose to insert here is not the solution.

G R A C E is the only roadway that leads to what we all want, which is peace and joy. I’m not going to play the acronym game, but please note that God treats us with grace, and mercy. Furthermore, He expects us to treat others with the same grace and mercy.

Let me give you my interpretation of grace.

•It is forgiving when the other person does not deserve it.

• It is pressing into the relationship when the other person reacts, rather than responds.

• It is looking beyond the offense, into the future and remembering your past.

If we approached our earthly relationships the way our Daddy does with us, what a difference this world would see. Jesus was asked the question most of us want answered: “How many times must I forgive?”

Jesus’ answer was 70 x 7 (490). Some commentators suggest the implication was for the same offense in the same day. Try that one on!

Peace in some folk’s world is living life without 32

August 2014

strife. That, my friend, will never happen on this planet. Peace is living in harmony with others. We are not called to unanimity but to unity and harmony.

Unanimity is being in lockstep with someone else. God calls us to unity and harmony. We all have our perspective and our experience. It varies from others because we are all unique. As a couple, understand that living in peace with your other means accepting his or her differences and singing a harmonic chord.

Being in peace is knowing where you are with the person you love, and enjoying the presence and sound of that person. Peace for some is a fragile state of mind.

For others it is a fairyland. For the child of God, it is a place in harmony and unity with others of God’s Creation. Paul commended us to live at peace as best we can.

That third word of mine is joy. Joy is not happiness. Joy is the knowing, the recognizing, the living in the gift God has given you. Joy is experiencing God’s deep-rooted love and presence. Couples have been given a great gift; the complement of another person, not only of the opposite sex, but also of a different perspective. God has given us resistance. Without resistance there can be no growth, no intimacy, and no future.

Pastor Don Smith has been mar-

ried to Deborah for 35 years. 3 daughters, 3 grandchildren. Bachelors degree in Biblical Studies from Cornerstone Bible College, Masters’ of Divinity from Cornerstone Graduate School, Fairfax, VA. Doctor of Ministry from Kingsbury College of Land O Lakes, FL.

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Gò0dNews for Seniors

HELP! By: Esmerelda

W

hen babies are born, they are totally dependent on their parents or caregivers to meet their needs. And (perhaps ironically) as babies grow, parents are instructed to teach their children to be independent. This summer, Andrew and I have been working diligently, teaching our boys how to cook. It has taken several burned grilled cheese sandwiches, a bruised spatula, and two frying pans to achieve a decent result and an edible meal. But this is a necessary step in the “growing pains” of parenting.

Furthermore, this summer our eldest son hopefully will receive his learner’s permit to learn how to drive a car.

I hope all the drivers in Cleveland are aware and alert to keep a watchout for our young man!

His father and I have been showing him proper driving protocol, all in the hope that he will one day be a conscientious driver. Just like the birds of the field, our goal as parents is to teach our children to fly, and pray that the love and parenting we have rendered through the years sustains an independent mindset within them.

34

August 2014

Lee

Helping Each Other

Today I sat across the table from a beautiful young lady and her father who were contemplating a move to Garden Plaza. One of my goals was to educate this special senior gentleman that he should be comfortable asking others for help. Being independent, he has sustained several falls, bumps and bruises, and his physician has requested that he consider seeking help¾especially to be driven by someone else. If he refuses, no ma er how well-intentioned, his independence may prove harmful to himself and perhaps to others as well. This strong, yet stubborn older gentleman, seemed to understand the request made by his children; however, I could definitely see that he was totally against asking for help. To many people asking for help means accepting their own limitations, which hurts their pride and strong sense of independence.

In many cultures around the world, multiple families living together and helping each other is the only way they survive. Helping one another in these countries is a way of life. Our culture in America focuses on independence, but when independence is no longer an option, we feel like we are failing.

A Lesson from the Sequoia Trees In a recent sermon, Jonathon Stone, pastor of discipleship at Westmore, related an amazing story of the giant sequoia trees in California that can grow to be over 300 feet tall. The bark on these trees is three feet deep, and the trunks can be 100 feet around. However, these massive trees do not have a tap root; they grow in clusters with their roots interconnected to each other. Sequoia trees have stood for centuries through insurmountable weather conditions with their strength interdependent on each other. They stand tall because of the interdependence of each other.

Asking for help is not always negative-sometimes it’s the only way for us to stand strong and tall!

Esmerelda Lee

is campus manager for Garden Plaza of Cleveland, an independent and assisted living facility for seniors. She and her husband Andrew have three children.

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

A Glimpse of Heaven to Me Today The Struggle By: Kelly Hixson

T

here is nothing beautiful, fun, or enjoyable in a

hard, manual labor are all involved in the disaster

struggle. It isn’t pre y, or wrapped-up nicely in

of remodeling a house (not to mention the soreness

a cute package. The struggle in itself is actually

because I have worked muscles I never knew I had.)

ugly, hard, and messy.

As I sit here in the country on this beautiful, summer day watching the barn swallows feed their five babies, I see the baby birds rest their ever-so-

The struggle is hard work but at the right time, my struggle is complete and I have a newly remodeled home.

Someone who follows my writings decided to

delicate heads on the side of the nest. They are

purchase a gift for me. The time, thought, and money

awaiting the sounds of their parents perched alongside

this individual put into purchasing the gift and

the nest, so they open their beaks in hopes it is their

delivering it to me was great, but the time, work, and

turn to be fed.

process it took me to install it took more time and

This leads me to think about the struggle! I think

effort. Then I had to help my son figure out just the

about my story. If it were not for the struggles, I

right spot to put it so I can enjoy it. We gathered all the

wouldn’t have a glimpse to share with you today. If

supplies to install it, and my son worked up a sweat

first I didn’t have a struggle, people all around town

because I just couldn’t make up my mind.

would not come to me, share with me, and write le ers

After the struggle, it’s complete and I’m ready to

to me about how they look forward to my writings and

sit back and enjoy the beauty it will bring. As I walk

how they have been helped!

into a fabric store and wonder around in search of just

Looking back now, I see how beautiful the struggle

the right fabric for farmhouse curtains, I narrow my

really is. All along, God was looking down on me

search down and make my purchase. Then I think to

with a smile saying, “Be patient, My daughter. I work

myself, I have never even used a sewing machine. After a

best with broken pieces, and in your weakness, My

crash course in “Sewing 101,” the plain fabric turned

strength is made whole.”

into cute li le farmhouse curtains. As I step back and

On a lighter note, I remember taking small

enjoy the beauty, I realize the struggle is over. Don’t

struggles every day and turning them into beauty

hate it; don’t waist it; persevere through it, because the

like the transformation of a 100-year-old farmhouse.

rewards that are to come are heavenly!

The hammering, tearing out walls, painting, tearing

Kelly Hixson is a teacher at Black

out floors and laying new ones, the sweating and

Fox Elementary. You can email her at kellyhixson2@gmail.com or follow her “Glimpses” on Facebook .

36

August 2014

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

Sowing a Harvest of Righteousness By: Dave Carringer

W

isdom, love, peace, and joy are inseparable in Christ. They are harvest components of the righteousness of God

cherish making peace! (Passion Translation).

Did you get that? Our Life in Christ is full of good seeds from the righteous harvest of love, wisdom,

we’ve been given. They are ours to sow as we wish!

joy, and peace

“Freely you have received, now go freely give!”

that come

(Jesus in Ma 10:8).

from abiding in Christ’s Holy

God made peace

Spirit! They are His

with man through

Gift to us, and we can

Christ’s payment

sow them anywhere we want!

for sin at the Cross.

Use the creative ability that is

Now we have been joined with Him in His mission to spread this peace throughout a hurting, broken world! We have been given God’s creative nature in Christ, and now have the ability to make peace by sowing the gift of Christ’s peace He left with us!

Meditate on these two powerful verses from James 3:17-18 : “But the wisdom from above is always pure, filled with peace, considerate and teachable.

rightfully yours in Christ today! The world around us is waiting for the sons and daughters of God to stand up and take our place! We can “make” earth just like it is in heaven. But we’ve got some sowing to do first!

• Sow joy . . . make joy • Sow love . . . make love • Sow peace . . . and be a ‘Maker of Peace’ all

around your life!

Ma hew 5:9 says, “Blessed are the peacemakers

It is filled with love and never displays prejudice or

for they will be called the sons of God!” (Jesus). Now

hypocrisy in any form and it always bears the beautiful

go out and make something good around you today!

harvest of righteousness! Good seeds of wisdom’s

Let’s give ‘em somethin’ to talk about. Talk about love.

fruit will be planted with peaceful acts by those who

Dave Carringer 38

August 2014

is the owner of Abundant Living Organic Foods.

Pat McGowann Affiliate Brokerr

pmcgowan@bender-realty.com mobile: 423-650-2595

fax: 423-472-8855 toll free: 1-800-713-3129

www.bender-realty.com 425 25th St. NW Cleveland, TN 37311

Gò0dNews for Everyone

By: Darren Schalk

Theology by Nightlight

O

ne of the things that bugs me most about “You know how when you draw me a picture, you theologians is, well, how theological they are, can tell me every last detail of that picture?” particularly when they try to explain things.

“Uh huh.”

I was pu ing my five-year-old daughters (yes, “You can do that because you created that picture, plural, I have identical twin girls) to bed recently and, and that means you know everything about it down to after prayer time, Abby looked up and, out of the blue, the smallest detail. Right?” asked, “Daddy, how can God know everything?”

“Uh huh.”

WHOA! Where did that come from? I tried to “That’s how God knows everything because He flip the neon sign of theology in my head to the “on” drew it all.” position, and began forming my response: “God’s As I finished speaking, the angelic choir of omnipotence is directly related to His omniscience and children’s voices faded into the distance, and as they omnipresence. The sovereignty of the Godhead over faded, I’m sure I heard a still, small voice say, “This is all creation comes from His foreknowledge . . .”

Darren in whom I am well pleased.”

Wait a minute, Darren, that’s not going to work We seem to think theology is complicated with a five year old. This one needed to be as simple and incomprehensible, but the truth is we are all as possible. I couldn’t use the “neon light of theology,” theologians, and we theologize (yup, just made that I needed more of a theological nightlight—simple word up) every single day, even when we don’t know and subtle. I would not be able to tell her about it. When the opportunity presents itself, don’t avoid it; sovereignty, omniscience, and omnipotence. Can’t tackle it head on. God will help you. Otherwise, you possibly use those terms until at least six years old,” I may hear that angelic choir singing in false o: “It’s too thought to myself. late to theologize, it’s too laaaaaaate.”

I fumbled for words. “Well, baby, uhhh, I guess, And as the picture below illustrates, we can be God knows everything because He made everything.” thankful that God drew it all, and I did not.

I was pleased with my simple and deeply über Darren Schalk is author of the book Dear God We theological response, but Abby was still staring at Need To Talk from Charisma House and me blankly. I realized she needed more. Then all at serves as Curriculum Editor for White once it happened. The heavens parted and the Spirit Wing Publishing. He has appeared on television and radio shows across the descended on me like a dove of intelligence. I heard an nation discussing faith and discipleship. angelic choir of a thousand children’s voices singing He considers himself a promoter of disin perfect twelve-part harmony as I relayed this cipleship, progenitor of humor, preacher of Pentecost, and theological nightlight. potential possessor of a platypus. Find out more at www.

40 August 2014 DarrensChalk.com.

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Gò0dNews for your Taste Buds

Kielbasa Italian!

By: James Richardson

Ingredients (Serves 3-4)

• One 12 oz. package turkey Kielbasa • One green pepper • One medium onion • One jar spaghe i sauce • Two tsp. minced garlic • One tsp. basil • One tsp. oregano • Pinch pepper • Spaghe i • Olive oil • Parmesan cheese

Instructions 1. Prepare spaghe i per package instructions.

2. Slice Kielbasa thin and fry in olive oil and garlic until crisp. Remove from pan.

3. Chop onion and pepper finely and fry with spices. When cooked, return kielbasa to pan and mix.

4. Dress plate with spaghe i, sauce, kielbasa, veggies, and sprinkle with cheese.

Enjoy!

James Richardson is a Chris-

42

August 2014

tian freelance writer. He and his wife have two children. James also authors a Christian based blog at: www.essentiallifematters.blogspot. com

Companion Funeral & Cremation Service is a single family owned and operated funeral home serving this community since 2011.

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

M

y name is Lawson B Bates. ates Most peop at people know me and my family from TLC’s “19 Kids and Counting” and “The United Bates of America.” I am the fourth in a family of nineteen children.

People often ask what it has been like to grow up in such a large family. My parents have tried to instill character and Christian values at a young age and have tried to create a wholesome and happy environment for us. Though, as you can imagine, times are sometimes hectic or chaotic in our family. This foundation has helped us to draw strength from God and each other in any circumstance. Thus, we have become a very close-knit family.

I surrendered my life to the Lord when I was eleven years old at a church revival meeting. Growing up in East Tennessee, I developed a love for horses, farm life, and bluegrass/Gospel music. My family often travels to churches to sing and preach, so I began singing with my siblings at an early age. I picked up playing the guitar and mandolin when I was twelve or thirteen and started writing music at eighteen.

I recently released my first solo album, “Freedom Sure Ain’t Free.” It is an acoustic leaning country/ Gospel album. It features a variety of styles and songs from patriotic to bluegrass Gospel, and even Western yodeling. I was privileged to work with some of Nashville’s top talent including: Brian Su on, Ben Isaacs, Darrin Vincent, Andy Leftwich, the Whites, and many others. The title track, “Freedom Sure Ain’t Free,” was inspired by a military veteran who shared a testimony about his sergeant who lost his life serving in Iraq. I was deeply moved by the story about this man’s sacrifice and began to work on the lyrics for the song. My goal in writing the last track, “The End Down Here,” is to show a Christian’s perspective of death and to show there is hope and peace for those who place their trust in Christ. It is a song to offer encouragement in a seemingly dark hour. My ultimate goal for this album is to present meaningful songs that touch and inspire others in their walk with the Lord.

You can keep up with new projects and updates through my web site at lawsonbates.com or Twi er and Instagram @lawbates.

44

August 2014

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

A New By:Life In Christ Dana Jones H

ave you ever heard the phrase, "It can't happen to my family"? I said that for years in regards to addiction, but you know what? It did happen to my family and here is our story.

After seventeen years of marriage, I divorced my husband, and instead of being a parent to my boys, I was a friend. Unfortunately, during this time the older two (ages 17 and 14 at the time of the divorce) got involved in marijuana. I was oblivious to it all. I don't even know what the stuff smelled like. My 14 year old was getting into trouble at school, and I just thought they were picking on him, so we moved from Ringgold to Cleveland. He enrolled at Cleveland High and played football and ran track. I thought he was back on the right track, but boy was I wrong.

He graduated and was looking forward to running track in college, but during the summer he got involved with going to Rave parties and the drugs that went along with them. Within three months, he was not only using, but selling and making more money than I made in a year working hard. He was caught by a traffic stop in July last year and spent a few days in jail, but that didn't derail him. He went on to school in North Carolina and because the dealer on campus. He got caught there and was kicked out. When he went back 46

August 2014

for court, he got busted again. This time was the last.

He spent 51 days in jail during Thanksgiving, Christmas, and his nineteenth birthday. We could only visit on Thursdays, and since he was four hours away, we only saw him twice during this time. He had fallen as far as he could and finally realized he couldn't do it on his own.

One day I received a phone call and noticed the excitement in his voice. He had been attending church services and was getting baptized. Honestly, I cried because I thought I would go to the grave not knowing where he was. His stepfather and I went to see him get baptized and then took him to rehab. God worked a miracle in allowing us the funds to send him, and he will be there until January 2015. He is doing wonderfully and thanks God everyday for his new life (and so do we).

I really believe God has wonderful things for him in the future. He and I want to visit schools and talk to kids and parents about the danger of drugs and what they can do to the entire family.

Dana Jones has three boys

ages 23, 19 and 11. She lives in Chattanooga, TN

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Writer Guidelines: Write

Who: Our writers range from pastors, professors, and professional writers to stay at home moms and dads, business professionals, and others who have a desire to reach out to people through words of encouragement.

Mission Statement: 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 48

August 2014

What: We believe that it is important to laugh together, praise each other, encourage one another, and to offer biblical advice.

Articles can be directed toward everyone, or from woman to woman, or man to man. We love to share recipes and family traditions as well. We ask that articles be kept to a 500 word maximum. We’d love to hear from you!

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

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

When God Says “Yes”

M

any times God answers a heartfelt prayer with yes, no, maybe . . . if, or with silence.

What is the reason for this perceived silence?

Perhaps God has already given us the answer in His Word and we are not obeying it. Could it be that God is expecting us to be er understand one of His truths?

I often hear the statement, “Why is there injustice if God is a just God?” My pastor shared his experience of a mother and her children begging for bread on the streets in Russia.

Sobbing in the bus, he cried out to God and asked, “Why don’t You do something!”

God answered, “I AM not moved by need; I AM moved by faith!

That’s a mystery of God solved!

We have the responsibility to have faith so God can act on our behalf (see 1 Kings 17:816)! Imagine if God took care of every issue immediately, we could not and would not grow up in Him. I choose to quit blaming God for inaction caused by my lack of faith and to trust God to move

By: Teresa Mustar

mountains on my behalf! (see Ma . 17:20).

Consider the following examples when faith arises and God says yes.

HEALING

I can identify with the woman with the health issue of twelve years. She came in desperation and in faith believing, if she could only touch Jesus’ garment, she would be made whole. Jesus said, “Yes, it is time! You have exhausted all your other options; you have spent all of your money and now your faith in Me has made you whole.” Her faith allowed Jesus to erase her sin of believing the devil’s lies by allowing self-pity and resentment to fester. Faith arose and Jesus said, “Yes, be comforted; be at peace, for you are made whole!” (see Ma . 9:20-22, Mark 5:25-34, Luke 8:43-48)

DELIVERANCE

Jesus said yes to se ing households in order. Can you image the change in the immediate family and the extended family? “Uncle Bob is no longer yelling in church and is now in his right mind! Let’s BBQ and throw him a party!” (see Mark 1:23-26, Luke 4:33-36).

MINISTRY

God said yes to the obedience of Philip when he is nudged by God to run alongside the carriage of the Ethiopian Eunuch. Philip explained the prophetic scriptures about Jesus, led the dignitary to the Lord, and, after baptizing him, was miraculously transported

by God for another assignment thirty miles away.

When we are at the right place, at the right time, for the right reason, God does the ministry and the miracles! (see Acts 8:26-40)

EMPLOYMENT

God said yes to Paul. Although Paul was at liberty to be paid to preach full time, Paul set an example by preaching, praying, and working as a tent-maker.

Through much adversity, Paul spread the Gospel to the world by serving others. It was about God and not about Paul (see 1 Cor. 9:19).

SALVATION

God says, “Yes, I love you. It’s not about how good you are. It’s not about how bad you are. It’s not about what you can do for Me. It’s about My love for you” (see John 3:16).

A blessing for you: May God say yes to all your good desires and bless you with His miracles, signs, and wonders as you seek Him with your whole heart (see Psalm 119:9-16).

Teresa Mustar is the founder of www.personalvictory.

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org, a website where Christians can share God’s good news of spiritual, physical and financial victories with the world. Also, download teachings, videos and submit prayer requests.

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Gò0dNews from the Outdoors

Always An Adventure By: Rusty Asble

I

was a boy on a mission. My mission was to experience, be involved in, seek out and find a daily adventure. It did not ma er what it consisted of, but it needed to be an adventure. I am like that with my kids. I want them to wonder, experience, and gain insights about life through their own adventures, but sometimes I have to help them along the way.

While on vacation in New Smyrna Beach, Florida, I had multiple adventures planned for each of the kids, but one in particular I wanted both boys to accomplish was to have the fishing experience of ba ling a shark.

So off we went.

On the last day of vacation, after many failed a empts on my part, I hired a guide and we went just about a mile off the coast of New Smyrna and Daytona. We were in eyeshot of both beaches¾and people. Si ing in about 50 feet of water, our captain let the boat motor run for about 15 minutes. He shared that it would get the sharks’ a ention. Sure enough about the 10-minute mark, here came the first Blacktip circling the boat. In about 10 minutes, Garre had his first of three sharks for the afternoon. About 30 minutes later, Ridge received a major slam on his rod.

Diving deep, we immediately knew it was a big one for this area. It took about 20 minutes and we received our first glimpse. It was a 5 and half-foot 110-pound 52

August 2014

Bull Shark that was not happy he was being pulled up to the surface. After a great ba le, finally it was on board and secured safely.

Standing back and watching both boys have this experience was thrilling and exciting. Seeing their strength matched for strength are dreams boys (and men) have. After many congratulations and highfives, both of their faces had great grins. It was a great accomplishment but also one in conquering their hardfought foes in their own adventures.

What adventures have you done? What adventures do you dream of doing? There is still time. Go ahead and do it. You have to try. Many things in life are left undone because people have the fear of trying or doing. Get past that. Pray about it and ask Christ for the understanding, knowledge, and wisdom in the steps you can take. Remember, steps in faith are always an adventure.

“Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.”

Hebrews 11:1 (NIV)

Reverend Rusty Asble is the associate pastor of Recreation Administration at First Baptist Church Cleveland, TN. He and his wife Stacy have three children Ridge, Garrett and Susie. They reside in Cleveland.

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

You Can Be Perfect Too!

By: Samuel Burger

I

’m reasonably sure most would believe that perfection is not a ainable in this life. However, there is one verse of Scripture that explodes with revelatory power concerning perfection. First John 4:17 says, “By this is love perfected with us, so that we may have confidence for the day of judgment, because as he is so also are we in this world” (ESV).

This verse of Scripture discloses our eternal identity in Christ Jesus.

Ask yourself these questions: • Does Jesus have a bad past?

• Is Jesus pure?

• Does Jesus rule in power and authority?

• Is Jesus sinless?

• Is Jesus full of purpose and joy?

• Is Jesus perfect?

• Is Jesus qualified?

Of course, Jesus is pure and He doesn’t have a bad past! Jesus does rule in power and authority! Jesus is sinless and He is full of purpose and joy! Do you know what this means for believers in Christ Jesus?

It means that they never had a bad past also! It means that they are pure just like Jesus Christ because as He is, so also are we

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in this world. We are identified in the perfect work and perfect person of Jesus Christ!

Once the promise of 1 John 4:17 becomes a reality in your heart, you will have unwavering confidence for the Day of Judgment.

Did you know that under the Old Covenant of Law, perfection was required from us? This is why God sent Jesus to fulfill the Law’s holy standards. Jesus said in Ma hew 5:17: “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them” (ESV). We cannot keep the Law perfectly, and that is why we need a perfect God. Friends, the reason why some people doubt their relationship with Jesus is because they only identify their relationship with Jesus through their works instead of Jesus’ perfect work.

• When you think God has left you, just grasp this promise.

• When you think God wants to punish you, just grasp this promise.

• When you think your mistakes identify you, just grasp this promise.

• When you think God keeps a record of your sins, just grasp this promise.

Once you understand that nothing can change your identity in Christ Jesus, you will start to live in abundant joy and fearless living.

First John 4:18 says, “There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not been perfected in love” (ESV). The reason why some people live in fear is because they don’t believe they are totally identified in the perfect work and perfect person of Jesus Christ.

If you’re living in fear of separation from God, more than likely this verse of Scripture hasn’t become real in your heart. Now we can say we are perfect just like Jesus by believing in His perfect work and not our works. That’s Good News!

Samuel Burger is the Pastor at Chestuee Baptist Church in Calhoun, Tennessee. He loves laughing, writing, preaching and having coffee conversations. Feel free to contact Pastor Samuel via email at samuelbrgr@ yahoo.com.

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