July 2014

Gò0dNews July 2014

Complimentary

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• MAKING BAPTISM COUNTp.20 • THE PERFECT LAW OF LIBERTYp.28 • KEEP IT MOVINp.50

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contents 8

28

52

THE PERFECT LAW OF LIBERTY

Why Do You Do It?

GoodNews from the Pastor’s Desk GoodNews for Teens

6

Fighting For Our Freedom

by Pastor Larry Cockerham

GoodNews for Kids

8

That’s Not My Job

GoodNews on Money Matters

10 The Looming Student Loan Crisis

by Andrew Lee GoodNews for Him

12 Be a Man, Cry a Little!

by Cliff Howard

GoodNews for Her

14 Fairy Tale Marriages

by Melinda Nicodemus

GoodNews for Parents

20 Making Baptism Count

by Craig Thompson

GoodNews for Life

22 A Decision For Life Bless es Cleveland Woman

by Beth Henderson

GoodNews for Health & Fitness

24 Weight Loss - A Step at a Time

by Pastor Zona Hayes-Morrow

26 Grayson Russell

by Pastor Chris Knipp

GoodNews Cover Story

28 Perfect Law of Liberty

by Pastor Mike Shreve

GoodNews for Everyone

30 God is at Work in Public Schools

by Jason Dehart

GoodNews for Couples

32 A Profound Mystery

by David Gray

GoodNews for Seniors

34 Embracing Change

by Esmerelda Lee

GoodNews for Everyone

36 Panting for Water

by Charlton Lewis

GoodNews for Everyone

38 Lessons from the Vineyard

by Dave Carringer

GoodNews for Moms

40 Marriage Takes Three

by Alicia Klepper

GoodNews for your Taste Buds

42Chicken Salad

by Darlene Thornton

GoodNews for Everyone

44 Little Basket, Big Lesson

by Lettie Burress

GoodNews for Everyone

46 For What It’s Worth:

Perpetual Problems

by Sharon Foskey

GoodNews for Everyone

50 Keep It Movin

by Terrie Ruff

GoodNews from the Outdoors

52 Why Do You Do It?

by Rev. Rusty Asble

GoodNews for Everyone

54 Denominational Separatists!

by James Richardson

God Bless You and Thank You! Writers

Pastor Larry Cockerham Pastor Mike Shreve Pastor Chris Knipp Pastor Zona Hayes-Morrow Rev. Rusty Asble Andrew Lee Cliff Howard Melinda Nicodemus Craig Thompson Beth Henderson JD DeHart David Gray Darlene Thornton Esmerleda Lee Dave Carringer Le ie Burress Alicia Klepper Charlton Lewis Emily Stone Terrie Ruff James Richardson

Delivery

Charlton & Paulette Lewis

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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Design Matthew Ruckman Caleb Prytherch

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Distribution 7500 Monthly

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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

Fightingby:For Our Freedom Larry Cockerham I

ndependence Day – It’s a celebration of the founding of the United States of America. It’s also a celebration of the freedoms we enjoy as Americans. On this 238th anniversary of the founding of our nation, we celebrate the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution of the United States. These two powerful documents declared our independence from oppression and domination by foreign powers. These documents continue to guarantee our liberty these hundreds of years later, but it takes more than documents to insure freedom.

There were 56 men who signed the Declaration of Independence in 1776. Many of these men suffered great losses to stand for freedom. They lost their homes, their families, and their fortunes. Some lost their very lives. History tells us that 5 of those signers were captured by the British, who tortured and killed them. Twelve had their homes burned to the ground.

Two had sons who died, and another had two sons who were captured in the Revolutionary War. Nine of these brave men fought and died from wounds or hardships of the war. These men put their lives on the line as they said, “And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor.” They gave up everything for the belief that “All men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.”

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July 2014

Over these centuries since the founding of our nation, many men and women have fought to preserve our freedoms, not only in times of war, but in times of peace as well. Many thousands have given their very lives. Someone said that the price of freedom is eternal vigilance. We also have to be ready to fight for it.

But I wonder. Are we willing to fight for freedom today? And I’m not just talking about serving in the military. For example, are willing to pray for our leaders? Are we willing to stand up for the rights of others, especially minorities? Are we even willing to vote? Are we willing pledge our allegiance to “One nation, under God, with liberty and justice for all”?

Freedom is not free. It costs a lot. But it’s worth every drop of blood, sweat and tears, every ounce of effort and every sacrifice required. It’s worth it to have the rights guaranteed by our constitution, including the right to the freedom of religion, freedom of speech and the freedom of assembly. The right to a fair trial and freedom from cruel and unusual punishments are worth fighting for. The freedom to worship God, pray and share the gospel are precious enough to give our lives for.

As we celebrate Independence Day, let’s remember the cost of freedom and be willing to fight for it.

Pastor Larry Cockerham

is the Senior Minister at Living

Word Church in Cleveland.

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Gò0dNews for Kids

That’s Not My Job Philippians 2:5-8

Jackie,” her mother called, “will you go and get the dirty clothes out of the basket?”

“I’m busy!” said Jackie.

“So am I,” said her mother. “That’s why I asked you.”

“That’s not my job!” said Jackie.

“Since I told you to do it, it is your job,” said her mother. “You get those clothes. We’ll talk about it later.”

Jackie went to get the clothes. That night Jackie was playing with her cat when her mother came and sat down beside her.

“I was in a big hurry this morning and didn’t have time to talk about something important,” her mother said. “Can we talk about it now?”

“I do help you,” Jackie said.

“I know that, and I appreciate what you do,” her mother said. “But if you only do certain jobs and I only do certain jobs, some things won’t get done. We are a family. Some things have to be done that aren’t on anyone’s list. That’s when we have to help each other.”

“OK,” said Jackie. “I’ll try.”

“Good!” said her mother. “Let’s think of working and playing together as a family as our real job.”

Some Questions 1. Who divides up the jobs in your family?

2. Do you do only what you have to do, or do you do what has to be done?

3. How can you help others in your family?

How can others help you?

“I guess so,” said Jackie.

A Prayer

“Remember when I asked you to do something and you said it wasn’t your job?” said her mother.

Thank you, God, for our family. Help us to live together happily by helping each other. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

“Yes,” Jackie said. “What do you think your jobs are?” asked her mother.

“I set the table, and I make my own bed,” said Jackie.

“That’s right,” said her mother. “And you do those jobs well. Is that all?”

“I think so,” Jackie said.

“What do you think my job is?” her mother asked.

“You go to work,” said Jackie. “You cook and clean house.”

“That’s right,” said her mother. “But maybe there’s a be er way for each of us to look at our jobs. Maybe my job is to help you and your job is to help me.”

8

July 2014

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Gò0dNews on Money Matters

THE LOOMING STUDENT LOAN CRISIS: by: Andrew Lee

Don’t Let It Happen To You!

R

ecently, countless national news stories have s ounded warning bells about the student loan “crisis” in America and how this crisis threatens our nation’s economic future, much as the “mortgage crisis” of 2008 and the “tech stock bubble” of 2000-01 had long-lasting negative impacts on economic markets. In case you haven’t heard, total student loan debt—over a trillion dollars now—has surpassed the total amount of Americans’ credit card debt. In Texas alone, the average college student loan balance is $22,000 per student. Many people, it seems, have come to the conclusion that a ending college means necessarily taking out tens of thousands of dollars of student loan debt. Certainly, there’s no denying that skyrocketing college costs (which seem to rise by double digit increases every year) present a fiscal challenge for students and parents trying to pay tuition, room, and board. But this is how crazy the situation has become: recently, a married couple phoned in to the Dave Ramsey radio show to ask for advice about their daunting student loan debt. As a couple they had $275,000 in student loan debts and, as a couple, they earned together $60,000 per year (that’s $30,000 apiece for the mathematically challenged). Here’s the kicker (which you may have predicted based on their mediocre annual salaries): this student loan debt wasn’t for medical school or law school; this couple has only bachelor degrees, one in sociology and the other in economics (ironic, isn’t it?). This indebted couple was never asked (nor volunteered) to say where they a ended college, but it certainly raises a couple of questions: (1) what school costs $137,000 per student for a 4-year bachelor’s degree and (2) who were the banker “bozos” who approved this loan in the first place? The bad news regarding the second of these questions—with Sallie Mae using taxpayer funding, we may all be on the “hook” for these absurd student loans. Dave Ramsey’s question (which went unanswered during this phone call) was pointed: “Where were your parents during this decision-making process?”

It’s a valid question. Even if

one’s son or daughter is legally an “adult” at age eighteen and therefore “independent” to make his or her own choices, shouldn’t a caring parent have something to say before watching this son or daughter sign up for years (decades in many cases) of financial bondage? One would hope so.

So, without further ado, here are some common-sense suggestions about how to avoid the true-life nightmare scenario described above. First, if you are a parent (or grandparent) of a young child, start saving NOW for college.

Even a li le bit ($10/week) goes a long way if you have a decade or more to invest it into stock mutual funds and allow it to grow and compound. Unless the kid is a prodigy and starts college early (in which case he or she is on scholarship and you’re covered anyway), most of us have about 18 years to save and invest for college tuition payments; it’s not really a “surprise” that sneaks up on us. Secondly, if you are the college freshman, consider practical, realistic ways to lower your college costs by (1) working part-time while in college (2) a ending an in-state college with lower tuition and fees (3) applying for any and all possible grants, scholarships, and work-study opportunities. Finally, unlike the couple described above, if you must borrow money to help pay for college, carefully consider what type of career (and salary) you are likely to get with your planned degree program (major), and see whether it makes good financial sense. In other words, it would be unwise to take out a hefty student loan for a major in sociology, or any other number of liberal arts majors for that ma er. Please don’t misunderstand me; I’m a big fan of the liberal arts, being an English major myself—it’s what I do. But it would be foolish to go tens of thousands of dollars into student loan debt when one’s realistic salary scale would require decades to repay the student loan. As the old saying goes, “Failing to plan is planning to fail.” Let’s be smart. After all, that’s what college is all about, isn’t it?

Dr. Andrew Lee is Associate Profes-

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July 2014

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

He and his wife Esmerelda have three children.

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Be A Man, Cry A Little!

Gò0dNews for Men

by: Cliff Howard

I

’ve always been and emotional person, however, when I was younger I didn’t think it was very masculine to cry. I would sit in church and have urges to cry. I didn’t understand what was going on in my heart or why, but I held back my tears. My mom once told me that there should be no shame in my tears, that it was a way of cleaning us and refreshing our hearts. At a young age, that was some big information to take in. My mother’s advice and an old song, that I’ve heard all my life, changed my thinking. After pondering on what my mom told me, I decided not to hold back anymore. Wow, what a change!

Later on in life, my wife and I were expecting our first child and received the news that we were going to have a li le girl. Around this time a good Youth Pastor friend of mine, who already had two girls, asked me if I was a “crier.” At this time in my life, I was confident in my answer, I took in a deep breath, puffed my chest out, and in the manliest voice I could muster boldly and firmly, that I cried like a li le baby. He then advised me that after having a girl, my crying would intensify 10 times. I have li le thought to the depth of his statement.

A few months later my first daughter was born and as soon as I laid eyes on her I started crying uncontrollably. At that time I remembered that conversation with

my friend. Much to my surprise, my buddy was right.

A couple years later when we found out we were expecting another daughter, my remembrance was shook again. This also came along with the realization of eventually having two teenage daughters at the same time. Could it get any worse? Why yes it can!

As a minister I thought to myself, “Let’s see if we can turn this into some message material!” First I wanted to dig deep and see if it was cool to cry.

Guess what? Jesus wept! Seriously, that’s the verse.

John 11:35. But why did Jesus weep? He had a friend that had passed away. He knew, of course, the outcome of this situation, that God would be glorified, but he still had emotions and it caused him to cry. Well that’s all I needed, if The Man cried, then I can too! So as a man, the alpha male, the masculine epitome of America, it is okay to cry. Be proud of your tears. Tears are a language God understands.

At this time my wife and I are expecting our third child. As you are reading this we probably know now what we are having. If this child is another girl, you might recognize me by the man with tears. But it feels good. My children know that I’m not worried about my appearance but that I’m overwhelmed with God’s love, to bestow inconceivable blessings. I tell them that The Lord fills me so much it leaks out my eyes. So if you are expecting any baby girls in your future, be prepared!

Cliff Howard Hus-

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July 2014

band, father of 2 girls and another baby on the way. Has served as Youth and Associate Pastor the last 13 years. Singer, Musician, Songwriter.

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

Fairy by:TalMelindae Nicodemus Marriages

D

o they really exists? From the days of Snow White, Cinderella, and Sleeping Beauty the idea of a Prince coming and sweeping of off our feet has been a magical dream. These stories always end with “And they lived happily ever after...” I think today’s versions of a “Fairy Tale” marriage may be a li le different.

In my opinion it is unrealistic to think your marriage will never involve arguments or disagreements. Your marriage will be different from everyone’s because you are marrying your soul mate and you love him/her with every fiber in your body.

So the question remains do they really exists? Sure they do, but it is not as simple as “and they lived happily ever after”. A fairy tale marriage involves first and foremost commitment. The desire to be commi ed to each other no ma er what from day one till death do us part. They also involve being submissive. If women submit to their husbands and the husbands love their wives as Christ loved the church, as the Bible states in Ephesians 5: 22-33, then we will be striving to please each other.

Another important aspect of a fairy tale marriage is compromise. Compromising your wants, needs, and desires for your spouses. Fairy tale marriages also have couples who are willing to work hard at it. Marriages are not easy and as humans we have the tendency to be selfish which doesn’t work in a marriage. We have probably all heard the expression “rose colored glasses” which simply means you are looking at the world with a “distorted” view making everything amazing. You look at your spouse and like they are the most amazing, beautiful, sexiest thing you have ever laid eyes on. The 3 D’s are a part of this marital equation as well and they are devotion, dedication, and desire. You are devoted to your spouse and only your spouse. You have their back in every situation. They have your dedication to be there through the good times and bad and through sickness and in health. You have the desire to be together and you enjoy each others company. You choose to hang out together in your free time. Last and certainly not least fairy tale marriages involve patience. Patience to deal with the husbands when they have the common cold, yet act like they are dying. Patience for the wives when they are PMSing and cry over everything. Patience to love, learn, and grow old together.

Love in patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil, but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. 1 Corinthians 13:4-8.

Melinda Nicodemus is Fairy Tale Marriages don’t just happen they are Is married to Paul and they earned. have three children. She is the owner and operator of Nicodemus Photography.

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July 2014

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

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July 2014

Dalton Pike Baptist Church 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 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 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 East Cleveland Seventh-day 801 Howard Cir SE Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-9299 Bowman Hills Adventist 300 Westview Dr NE Cleveland, TN 37312

issuu.com/goodnewscm

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

18

July 2014

Athens, TN 37303 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 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 Athens, TN 37303 423-745-2335

July Church Activities VBS Woodland Park Baptist Church July 7

Jerusalem Acres Church of God 1826 Dalton Pike in Cleveland TN. July 8th- 12th

James Street Church of God July 7-11 Mount Pisgah Baptist Church July 13th - 17th Collegedale Church July 14th - 18th Friendship Baptist Church July 14th - 18th Church of the Highlands July 21st - 25th

Frankly teaching about building ‘normal’ relationships!

He is the author, editor, or contributor to more than a dozen books including: SPIRITCENTERED COUNSELING; WHEN HOME IS WHERE THE HURT IS, COVENANT MARRIAGE, FAMILY MINISTRY FOUNDATIONS , FIRE, FAITH, AND FAMILY: A PORTAIT OF SPIRIT-FILLED FAMILIES. He is married to Dr.. Su Ann Vining. They are the parents of three daughters. He graduated from Lee College earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Biblical-Historical Studies. He received his Master of Arts degree in Biblical Literature from the Assemblies of God Graduate School. His Doctor of Ministry degree is from Columbia Theological Seminary. The major area of Dr. Vining’s graduate training is pastoral care/ counseling.

John Kie Vining’s ministerial experience includes serving as an evangelist, pastor, college instructor, and professional pastoral counselor.

He is a licensed professional counselor in Tennessee. He has served as the Director of Counseling and Testing, Lee College, and Director of Counseling at the Church of God Center for Ministerial Care.

Presently, he serves as the Director of Center for Relational Health.

He is a member of the National Board of Certified Counselors, American Association of Christian Counselor, American Association of Pastoral Counselors, Fellow and American Counseling Association.

John Kie Vining, D. Min., LPC/MSHP

Burning on the Inside, Shining on the Outside, What a Change in my Life!

Waterville Baptist -Cleveland July 14 -18, 10 am - 1 pm

Gò0dNews for Parents

MAKING

BAPTISM COUNT

BY: CRAIG THOMPSON

A

s a Christian parent, water baptism is an important part of your child’s faith journey. Without disputing details, the “right age” for your child to be baptized depends on the child’s ability to understand their need for Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. Once they have understood that need and have made the decision to follow Jesus, our job as parents is to lead them to the next step of obedience in water baptism.

But water baptism is more than simply being dunked in a (hopefully) heated tank or a river. Most people I’ve encountered throughout the church do not have a solid grasp of what baptism is and means. If that is the case, that means they are not teaching their children the significance of water baptism. The early church made this teaching a part of the Gospel whenever they preached or taught. How do I know? The Ethiopian eunuch asked Philip the evangelist if he could be baptized when he saw them approaching a body of water. The only way the eunuch would know to ask is if Philip preached that to him as he was preaching the Good News of Jesus.

I want to offer a few points for you to share with your own children to help them understand the significance of what baptism means.

1) Baptism is an act of obedience. After we accept Jesus as Lord, one of our first acts of obedience is to follow Him in believers’ water baptism. Jesus commanded that His followers should make disciples by baptizing them (among other things). (Ma 28) 2) Baptism is a symbol of our own death, burial and resurrection. As Jesus bore our sins on the cross, died, was buried and rose again to new life, so we also die to sin, are buried with him by baptism and then are raised (out of the water) to new life in Christ. (Rom 6) Children need to be taught that this is a pivotal point in their commitment to Jesus.

3) Baptism is a public profession of our faith in Jesus as 20

July 2014

Lord and Savior. To that end, encourage your children to invite their family members, classmates, neighborhood friends to watch them be baptized. This is their chance to testify without ever having to speak that they have commi ed their life to Jesus Christ before their sphere of influence.

4) Baptism is a sign of deliverance. This isn’t talked about as much. When Moses led the children of Israel out of Egypt, they were being set free from slavery. Egypt is a symbol of our bondage to sin and self. Pharaoh determined that he would chase the Israelites down and enslave them again. But Moses stretched out his rod and parted the Red Sea. As the children of Israel passed through the water, Paul tells us that they were being “baptized” in that moment. When Pharaoh and his hosts tried to chase them down, the waters of baptism cut them off. Moses told the children of Israel to look on the dead bodies of their enemies because they would “see them no more.”

A practical lesson to help your children understand this is to have them write down on a notecard or paper all of the things they don’t like about themselves, the things the devil tells them, the things they wish they could change about their character. When they are being baptized, put that paper in a pocket. Talk to them about the fact that the old person is dying to sin, the devil and his lies about who they are. When they come out of the water, don’t just dry them off and ignore the teaching opportunity. Sit down with them and have them write down what GOD has to say about who they are. Use their list of negatives to come up with a list of POSITIVES. Put that on their wall. Frame it. Make it visible so they can read what God has to say about them on a daily basis.

With a li le planning and teaching, your children’s baptism can become a milepost they can reference for the rest of their lives.

Craig Thompson is a husband, father, author, speaker, teacher, and keeper of goats. walkwithgod.com.

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Gò0dNews for Life

A Decision For Life Blesses Cleveland by:Woman Beth Henderson “M om, why do people always say I look just like you?”

“Because you do, son.”

“But, how, Mama? You know, since I’m adopted?”

“Because God knew you were going to be my baby, and he made you just for me.”

That’s a conversation 11-year-old Douglas* and his mother, Jo*, have had more than once, but Douglas never tires of hearing the story of his birth, and Jo never tires of telling it.

It’s a story about God’s great love, His sovereignty and His purposes at work in each of us, and it began years ago when Jo faced the reality of infertility.

She wanted nothing more than to be a wife and mother, but endometriosis stood in the way of motherhood. Surgeries and fertility treatments proved unsuccesful, and eventually a hysterectomy became necessary and in 2000 that procedure ended Jo’s hopes of bearing her own children.

But she was still determined to become a mother, and she and her husband decided to adopt. They contacted an adoption agency, but that avenue didn’t prove fruitful. Then, two a empts at private adoptions ended with the birth mothers changing their minds, one of them the day the baby was born. When that happened, Jo describes herself as a “broken person.”

“I had finally given up,” she said.

Li le did she know that not too far away, another family was facing a crisis of their own. A fourteen-year-

old Cleveland girl was pregnant. For months she didn’t share that information with anyone, not even her 15-yearold boyfriend. But with less than a month to go before the baby would be born, she finally told her mother.

What happened in the next few weeks would be evidence that God had been at work all along. A teenage couple, unprepared for parenting, wanted to give their child a good home, and by God’s orchestration and timing, that led to the day when Jo’s mother was not feeling well, and so was home from work when an acquaintance knocked on the door to share that a friend’s 14-year-old daughter was pregnant.

The baby was due in just a few weeks.

Jo’s parents wanted to protect her from another heartache, and were reluctant to share this news with her.

So, they waited a few days, but after a lot of prayer and with assurances from the young couple, they finally spoke to their daughter.

Two days later, Jo was there when an ultrasound revealed the baby’s gender.

She remembers that day well. “’It looks like your going to be the mom of a baby boy,’ the ultrasound tech told the young lady,” Jo recounts.

“But she said, ‘No, she is,’ and pointed at me. Three weeks later, Douglas was born.”

Now, 11 years have passed. In the intervening years, Douglas and Jo have seen the young lady who gave birth to Douglas, although he didn’t know it.

His biological grandmother has held him and even bought him a treat one afternoon at the ballpark. He didn’t know that he was related to the nice lady who gave him popcorn.

Douglas knows that he was adopted, but according to the adoption agreement, he can’t know who his birth parents are until he is 18 years old.

As for Jo, she has no regrets.

“A lot of people will say ‘I wouldn’t know how to love a child that wasn’t my own.’ Well, he is mine. I probably love him more because I know what we went through to get him. It was a complete God thing.”

And, she said, she’d go through it all again.

“I wouldn’t do anything different, because then I wouldn’t have Douglas, and he’s worth it all.”

She offers encouragement to others in the same situation, as well.

“Don’t give up,” she said. “There may be heartache, but the reward [for trusting in God’s plan and timing] was more than I could ever imagine. We can’t see the future, but God can.”

The following is a poem that someone shared with Jo after her Douglas was born, that she said clearly explains how she feels about the way Douglas came into her life: Not flesh of my flesh, Nor bone of my bone, But still miraculously my own.

Never forget for a single minute That you didn’t grow under my heart, But in it.

Author: Fleur Conkling Heylinger * Names changed to protect privacy.

Beth Henderson

22

July 2014

is the Development Director at New Hope Pregnancy Care Center

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Gò0dNews for Health & Fitness

Weight Loss A Step at a Time By: Zona Hayes-Morrow

I

f you want to get the most out of weight loss, you need to pay a ention to your diet. You can pump up your weight loss and live longer by following my advice. You’ve got to aim for a healthy weight. As we age, we need fewer calories and weight can creep up on us increasing our risk for heart disease, diabetes and other conditions. You have to be physically active each day. You can’t separate eating (calories in)

Vegetables are lower in calories and they help move things through your system.

• • • • •

pasta bread rice cereals beans

from activities (calories out).

You have to eat a variety of whole grains every day. People need 3 servings every day of whole grains. This lowers their risk of heart disease and diabetes. You also have to eat a variety of fruit and vegetables every day, especially fresh fruit and vegetables. You need to choose a diet that is low in saturated fat and cholesterol and moderate in total fat. You need to choose food and beverages that are moderate in sugars. More and more of our calories are coming from sugar, especially in soft drinks. And these drinks don’t provide any nutrition at all. You have to choose and prepare foods with less salt so you can reduce your sodium. We need to use less salt in our daily lives but especially as we age, we never need to pick up the salt shaker. Reducing sodium, eating more fruits and vegetables, and eating low-fat dairy products are good ways to control your blood pressure. And by losing weight you are helping to control your blood pressure.

Starchy Carbs

You need to eat your starchy carbs, before 3 pm. When you eat them earlier in the day, you get all of the energy you need to stay active through out the day but you still have plenty of time to burn them off so they won’t get stored as fat.

Then eat, fibrous carbs, such as vegetables, in the evening.

24

July 2014

Hidden Calories

You need to look and research the foods that you eat. You would be surprised at all of the hidden calories. For instance, your morning la e. You might not think that it is that bad, but most of them have 500 calories. I would recommend that you save your money and save the calories by passing on all of these designer drinks. Just have a regular coffee with a shot of vanilla or caramel in it.

Some other hidden calories are all of the salad and sandwich add-ins. Cheese, mayo, creamy dressings, and bacon bits may not be much on their own, but if you add just a li le bit of each of them together, and next thing you know you have 400 extra calories and about 40 extra grams of fat. You can add flavor with other things like mustard, pickles, onions, le uce, tomato and other veggies.

Keep Tabs

Research has shown that if you can keep tabs on your weight, it is easier to shed pounds and keeping it off. By monitoring the scale, you can quickly see what is working and what isn’t working. Just take it a step at a time. Even just a few li le changes can make the difference in losing those last 10 pounds.

Pastor Zona Hayes-Morrow is a successful business woman, mother, bible teacher and Executive Director of Norvel Hayes Ministries.

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Gò0dNews for Teens

l l e s s u R n o s y Gra By: Chris knipp

W

hat does Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby, Wimpy Kids, cowboys, fast food, health insurance; pop/ country music and Sunday school have in common? If you guessed American film and TV actor Grayson Russell then Ding ding, we have a winner!

Grayson has filled many roles in tv and film, however, he is best known for his role as Texas Ranger Bobby in the Talladega Nights movie and Fregely in the Diary of a Wimpy kid series. I had the opportunity to spend about an hour talking with Grayson recently about life as a kid actor and what he’s been up to lately.

Grayson’s relaxed style, sense of humor and quit wit had me laughing much of the interview. When I asked him how he was doing at the beginning of our conversation he said, “I’m doing good; I just had lunch so I’m doing really good!”

Grayson grew up as an only child, which worked out well considering the acting work that has sent him all over North America from Canada to California, to North Carolina, to Alabama. He said despite their unique family situation of him being a film and television actor; he’s lived a pre y normal life with church always being a big part of his family life.

I asked Grayson about the start of his acting career and he said acting was never really something he originally set out to do. When Grayson was 6 years old a friend of his moms noticed how Grayson could really work a room and had him be a character for his auto dealer commercials. Grayson loved the experience! Another friend brought information to Grayson’s mom about the open casting call for a role in the Talladega Nights movie. They sought out to audition just to gain experience auditioning in hopes to land national commercial roles. Yet, at 7 years old he ended up securing the role of Texas Ranger Bobby, son of Ricky Bobby played by Will Ferrell, in the Talladega Nights: Ballad of Ricky Bobby movie.

Grayson then shared his personal testimony of how he became a born again Christian. He said that he and his mom spent quite a bit of time in North Carolina during the 2 ½ months of filming the Talladega Nights movie. The first thing Grayson’s mom did was find a home church in town there. Dad would drive up on weekends for them to a end church together. Grayson said it was one of those typical Sunday mornings when the devil was on your back. The family was running late and frustrated having to sit in an overflow building and watch church on a screen. Yet, it was on this particularly Sunday morning during the filming of Talladega Nights while a ending Central Church of God under pastor Loran Livingston, Grayson accepting Jesus as his Savior after listening to a message on the book of Revelation. The Holy Spirit worked on Grayson’s young heart 26

July 22014 014 01 14

through the church screen and the Holy Spirit was planning on working through Grayson’s heart using the silver screen.

Grayson has continued to be a light in the Hollywood scene. He said while filming Talladega Nights the original script had him saying some words he was uncomfortable with. He talked to the director about it and the director looked at him and said he never had to say any words he was uncomfortable with. Later, while filming a movie called Rainbow Tribe Grayson and another fellow Christian actor witnessed with a Russian boy actor on set who gave his heart to the Lord in his hotel room. Grayson also still has relationships with the other leads in the Diary of a Wimpy kid movie series and is being a light to them to this day.

Grayson currently is pursuing his music career with the release of his first full-length album titled “Wherever I go”.

Joyce Martin of the Martins produced his album and it features mostly original tracks with a couple being wri en

by Gerald and Jason Crabb. Jimmy Yeary, writer of country hit single “I drive your truck”, also does some writing on the album. Grayson plans to continue acting, leading worship, and also dive into directing. He will be in town July 30th at Woodward Church of God and then Sunday, August 3 at the Westmore Church of God High 5 service at 10:00am. His album will be available for sale at these venues. You can call Westmore at (423) 303-2628 with any questions.

As I finished my time talking with Grayson we prayed for God’s continued favor and blessing on his life and career.

We look forward to seeing what God is going to continue to do in this young man’s life. It’s encouraging to hear of young men of God making a difference in the arts and entertainment industry. We need more men and women of God entering this field to utilize their skills to influence others for the sake of Christ’s Kingdom and bring glory to God through creative arts!

Chris Knipp is High 5 Pastor at Westmore Church of God in Cleveland.

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The Perfect La

by Mike Shreve

A

round this time of year, conscientious citizens of the United States should feel a surge of appreciation for the freedom we enjoy. However, freedom demands more than gratitude; it must also be passionately protected.

Dwight Eisenhower, in his first inaugural address, said: “We must be ready to dare all for our country. For history does not long entrust the care of freedom to the weak or the timid.”

And who can forget the powerful statement made by Ronald Reagan?

“Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. We didn’t pass it to our children in the bloodstream. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on for them to do the same, or one day we will spend our sunset years telling our children and our children’s children what it was once like in the United States where men were free.”

What a holy responsibility is ours of accepting the torch from those who crafted this unique republic, men like Patrick Henry who stirred his countrymen with a question that continues to ring like the liberty bell in our national conscience: “Is life so dear, or peace so sweet, as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery? Forbid it, Almighty God! I know not what course others may take; but as for me, give me liberty or give me death!”

Yes, we must reproduce this tenacious a itude when it comes to our personal freedoms: freedom of speech, freedom of religion, freedom to bear arms, freedom to peacefully assemble, freedom to stand up for what is morally, ethically and even scripturally correct and freedom to elect representatives to the government who will not rob us of our freedoms, but celebrate them—men and women who recognize they have not been placed in positions of authority to tyrannically rule but to humbly serve.

This passion to promote true freedom should also penetrate our spirituality, for Jesus did not come to just set up another religion. He came to bring us spiritual freedom: freedom from the curse of separation from God, freedom from the fallen human nature, freedom from the power of sin, freedom from the tyrannical control of satanic powers, freedom from the empty regulations of mere religion and freedom from the bonds of death.

When the Messiah announced His ministry in Nazareth, the New Covenant spread its wings and took to the sky. The Son of God read from the prophet Isaiah’s writings: “The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon Me, because the LORD has anointed Me to preach good tidings to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are bound; to proclaim the acceptable year of the LORD . . .” (Isaiah 61:1-2).

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The “acceptable year of the LORD” was also called the “year of Jubilee” in Leviticus 25:28 and “the year of liberty” in Ezekiel 46:17. It was a joyous time that came every 50 years when among the Israelites all debts were forgiven, all lost land and properties (with a few exceptions) were

aw of Liberty restored to the original owners, Jews who were slaves to their brethren were set free and some were even released from prison. It was a time of great rejoicing, forgiveness, restoration, and new beginnings.

No wonder Jesus used this notable natural holiday (holy-day) to represent what He came to do supernaturally.

His mission was to “proclaim liberty to the captives” for we have all been captivated by the bondage of this realm. But Jesus’ shed blood opens the prison doors and gives us hope. With the coming of the Lord Jesus and the deliverance He provided, Jubilee became a constant celebration of the heart, not just a memorial held every half-a-century.

The fulfillment of the event was lifted to a spiritual level, for we have been released, not from a monetary debt but a sin debt that could only be paid off with death (both physical and eternal). But Jesus tasted death for everyone so that we could inherit eternal life.

simple faith in the crucified, resurrected and ascended Savior. “If the Son sets you free you shall be free indeed” (Jn. 8:36).

James called this victory of grace in the New Covenant “the perfect law of liberty” (Ja. 2:12). It works perfectly, because it’s not based on rules, regulations and rituals; it is based on love—true love for God and love for others. It’s not religion; it’s relationship. It sets us free from sin because instead of just condemning us for our fallen nature, God dwells within, grants us spiritual rebirth and gives us a new nature. That is the purest essence of true Christianity.

This July 4th let’s celebrate both our political and spiritual liberty, but more than that, let us courageously take a stand for what is right—for it is the truth that make us free, both now and forevermore.

If shofars were joyously blown to usher in the Year of Jubilee under the Old Will, how much more should we be lifting up our voices like trumpets and shouting for joy that in the New Will what was lost has now been restored—access into intimacy with the Creator, as Adam and Eve enjoyed in the Garden.

But unfortunately, history often repeats itself.

The children of Israel came out of the bondage of Egypt to incredible freedom in the Land of Promise. For a season they greatly valued this inheritance, but sin took its toll and after about 900 years they lost it, and went back into bondage again—Babylonian captivity. And so it has been during the history of the church (both corporately and individually). Too often we leave behind the bondage of sin and carnality only to be re-enslaved by religion and legalism. No wonder Paul gave us the exhortation: “Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free, and do not be entangled again with a yoke of bondage” (Gal. 5:1) The epistle writer was warning the Galatians not to go back to the Law (the Torah) to try and become righteous before God when they had been given the “gift of righteousness” (the awesome inheritance of actually becoming “the righteousness of God in Christ”) (Ro. 5:17, 2 Cor. 5:21). No such righteous standing could ever be obtained by ceremonies or church traditions. It comes by

Mike Shreve, and his wife Elizabeth, pastor The Sanctuary in Cleveland TN. He has also functioned in the role of an evangelist for 43 years. He is the founder and CEO of Deeper Revelation Books, a Christian publishing company and is also the author of eleven books. www.shreveministries.org issuu.com/goodnewscm 29

Gò0dNews for Everyone

God Is At Work In Public Schools by: Jason DeHart

I

t is early August and hundreds of students are streaming in to fill bleachers and wait for the announcement of their new homerooms. Teachers line up to scan the crowd, rosters clutched in their hands.

Each student brings with them an individual worldview, and each brings his or her own challenges to the classroom. Some of them are devout, some of them are full of doubt, and some of them are just not sure what they believe. One or two of may be your children.

When I hear statements like, “We need prayer in school,” I think about these faces and the families behind them. In some households, there are adults who pray with their children. There is a family that sits down each evening for a meal, offering thanks before beginning to eat. In other households, children listen to their parents pray one moment and make lewd jokes in the next breath, or curse a co-worker.

In a large number of households, prayer and God are not on the daily agenda at all.

Of course, when these fresh faces have come in from the early morning sun, adjusting to a more regular sleep schedule and routine, I know of teachers who will have already walked the corners of their classroom, offering prayers for the coming year. I know of teachers who scan their rosters as soon as they get them and begin to pray blessings over their “fresh crop” of young people.

I know of teachers who take the opportunity to discuss good behavior and the Golden Rule on that first day of school and, though they may not mention Jesus or the Gospel, in that moment they teach moral behavior, and they have a constant opportunity to demonstrate what Christian, moral behavior looks like throughout the year. This is not necessarily forcing a child to believe a certain way; rather, this is the process of teaching children how to grow up and become positive, kind people.

I know of English teachers who take the opportunity to explain Biblical references in stories and poems, not for spreading a religion, but for reminding students that they need to be aware of ma ers of faith to be whole adults. It is impossible to teacher William Blake’s “Tyger, Tyger” without pausing to explain why the author capitalized “the Lamb” or to make mention of the figure of God represented in the poem.

Finally, when I hear that prayer needs to be in public schools, I think of the large number of Christian students I have met over the years who will admit to praying, and who do pray for their schools. As Paul said to Timothy, “And the things you heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others” (2 Timothy 2:2). As a publicschool teacher, that verse says it all.

Jason DeHart is a writer and teacher. His work has appeared in The Literary Yard and The Commonline Journal, among other publications.

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Gò0dNews for Couples

A Profound Mystery by: David Gray

any have used Ephesians 5:23-31 to expound on the roles and guidelines of marriages, and rightly so, but he Apostle Paul was actually pointing to something much deeper. He said, “ Husbands, love your wives … and the wife must respect her husband.” He then concludes the passage with a surprising statement, “This is a profound mystery—but I am talking about Christ and the church” (Eph 5:32).

M

FORGIVENESS. A wise person once said, “Marriage is the union of two good forgivers.” Couples in strong marriages will find themselves forgiving over and over and over again. In fact, it’s required. Otherwise, those same couples would end up critical, bi er, and unhappy. Forgiveness is the very essence of Christ’s message. And because of His amazing grace He forgives us over, and over, and over again. He grants us unrestricted forgiveness.

Though he was talking about marriage, he was actually illustrating Christ’s relationship with the church. I believe that a healthy marriage can reveal the nature of Christ to the world in three distinct ways.

Finally, healthy marriages are built on the foundation of UNWAVERING COMMITMENT. My wife knows that regardless what happens, I am not leaving. I’m not walking out. It doesn’t ma er what she says.

It doesn’t ma er what she does. I am completely commi ed to her! Unwavering commitment provides security and confidence. Couples will feel comfortable to be themselves. This is why marriage is intended to be “until death do us part,” because it represents God’s unwavering commitment to us as eternal. Jesus said, “I will never leave you, nor forsake you” (Heb. 13:5).

One of the amazing things about a healthy marriage is that someone can know and love the REAL you.

Not the “all-together” you that you want everyone else to see. I’m talking about the real you, that is sometimes selfish, maybe a li le pig-headed, or rude, and whose breath sometimes stinks. Yes, they know your strengths and successes, but they also know your challenges, your weaknesses, your shortcomings, your mistakes, your issues, your fears, and even your failures. Yet through it all, they inexplicably love you anyways. In fact, some of those very things actually cause them to love you even more. They love the REAL you. The best marriages are built on UNCONDITIONAL LOVE! This is the beauty of the love of God. Somehow, Christ knows everything about us, including our innermost thoughts, and LOVES us regardless. We can’t hide anything from Him. He knows everything about us – yet loves us unconditionally!

Also, anyone married for any length of time knows that marriage has a way providing a lot of opportunities to practice UNRESTRICTED 32

July 2014

Understanding and practicing these three principles will lead to the happiest, healthiest and strongest marriages. More importantly, it reveals the nature of Christ to our friends, our families, and the world.

People will ask you, “How can you love him when he acts like that? How can you keep forgiving? Why do you stay with her?” The answer: “Because Christ loves me when I act like that. He forgives me when I mess up and He never leaves me no ma er what I’ve done. I still see the value, the good, and the reflection of God in that person, just like Christ does with me.”

Healthy marriages reveal Christ to the world by displaying unconditional love, unrestricted forgiveness, and unwavering commitment. It is a profound mystery.

David Gray is the store manager at Habitat Restore on Grove Ave. He and his wife Kendra have four children and two grandchildren.

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Gò0dNews for Seniors

Embracing Change by: Esmerelda Lee

C

hange is often difficult for most people, and this is especially true of senior adults during their “Golden Years” of retirement. Often, change comes unexpectedly and quickly for senior adults, and coping with these changes can present challenges not only for the retiree, but also for their families. Physical frailty is inevitable as we age, and we may find that we cannot perform or enjoy some of the activities we once took for granted in our younger years. The passing away of our friends, neighbors, and acquaintances is another inevitable change that occurs as we age. Other changes occur in our routines and expectations. For instance, relinquishing one’s ability to drive a car independently is usually one such decision that is sometimes a difficult one to make, both for the senior adult and for his or her loved ones. Acknowledging that some senior adults need assistance with other daily tasks that they were used to doing for themselves is likewise challenging.

Other changes occur around us, and these may alter our accustomed routine or daily schedule. For instance, our favorite luncheon establishment may close its doors or cut its hours of service; we may arrive at church one Sunday morning to find that someone else is si ing in “our” usual seat. But during these times of inevitable change—and remember the old adage that “the only CONSTANT is CHANGE”—I would like to offer some suggestions for embracing change in a healthy and positive way.

First, let’s remember that change is not always “negative,” no ma er how it may seem at first. When I look back on some of the major changes in my own life, even those that seemed daunting to me at the time, I can see in retrospect how they turned out positively and allowed me to grow personally, socially, spiritually, and professionally.

Secondly, during times of change, it is important to accentuate the positive aspects of these changes. Try viewing change as an OPPORTUNITY to grow in some new way and to open yourself to new possibilities and experiences. After all, where would we be if we had lived our entire lives saying “no” to new experiences?

Thirdly, don’t panic. Change is normal and unavoidable. Everyone experiences it. Find someone to walk through these changes with you and alongside you to offer you encouragement and support.

Finally, BELIEVE—believe in yourself, in your ability to adapt and to move forward. Accept support from your family, friends, church, and caregivers. Believe that change will work for your good, as the Bible tells us in Romans 8:28: “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.” This means you!

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

Panting For Water By: Charlton S. Lewis

W

ater is essential for life.

And when you seriously need it and don’t have it, you become desperate to find it.

Once in my life, I needed water so much, I could think of nothing else.

I was surprised at my own desperation for it.

During my career with the USDA Forest Service, there were times all employees were expected to serve in or provide support to firefighting efforts when fire season reached epidemic proportions. When I was younger, though not part of my regular job, I served as a fire fighter, building fire lines with hand tools alongside my fellow crew members. It was backbreaking, hard work but it was rewarding when our crew accomplished an assignment. And there were times we could see and experience up close new areas of our country.

One of those times occurred in Idaho near the Salmon River. We were assigned to a group of forest fires being managed together as the Long Tom Complex on the Salmon National Forest. Our crew was positioned at a camp high in the mountains near the Montana border.

On a day with a light rain, our crew was assigned a section of fire line to be built down a rocky slope and connected to a small creek.

As we labored, occasionally we heard “Watch out!” as rocks loosened during construction tumbled down the mountain. We survived without any mishaps, but we had 36

July 2014

hi else l that h concerned d us. something We had not been issued sufficient water for the day, and as our work progressed, the level of water in each of our two canteens became dangerously low. Late in the afternoon, I wished I had more water and each person was in the same situation.

We completed our assignment of tying the fire line to the creek and proceeded to climb up the slope on the other side. I can’t remember when I drank my last water, but I do know that each step became harder and harder. We heard that when we reached a forest road somewhere on the mountain, we would have water.

My body needed water badly and my mind focused on nothing else. I wasn’t in the state of mind to kill for it, but I certainly was beyond being polite and preferring my fellow crew members.

I wanted water and I wanted it then. Period. Nothing else mattered. No kindness. No courtesy.

No sharing. “Give me water!” was my only thought.

Over the years I have thought about that situation and wondered if I ever reached the place in my spiritual walk that I became so desperate for God that nothing else ma ered. Sure, I have prayed for His anointing, for His leading and for His protection. But have I craved His presence so much that nothing else in this world mattered?

As physical water is necessary for

h human life, so is living water necessary for spiritual life. Without it, there is no eternal life. With it, we will never thirst again. For Jesus is the living water and only He can satisfy. That’s what he gave to the woman at the well so she would never thirst again.

The writer of Psalm 42 says in verses 1 and 2a: “As the deer pants for the water brooks, So pants my soul for You, O God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God.” (NKJV) I didn’t run like a deer that day, but I panted like a deer for water. Lord, may I pant for You like I panted for water. May I thirst for You, for You are the living God who alone can satisfy.

We finally reached the road, refilled out canteens and replenished our thirsty bodies as we sat on the edge of the road still dusty in spite of a light rainfall. As my body soaked up the water, I soaked up the view of the surrounding mountains overlooking the Salmon River.

Many years have passed since I was desperate for water, and I have been reminded on different occasions the lesson I learned that day: physical water brings temporary satisfaction but living water brings eternal life and joy.

Charlton S. Lewis is a retired civil engineer from the USDA Forest Service. He and his wife Paulette have 3 daughters, 7 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren.

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

Lessons from the Vineyard By: Dave Carringer (#3) A

s Kay and I toured the vineyards, we learned that ALL the famous wines from Napa come from vines that are ‘Grafted’ into other root systems.

The American roots are much heartier, stronger, and more resistant to disease than the French roots. The farmers have found they can graft vines that will produce any fruit they want, into these strong & established root systems, and not only the quality, but the overall yield will increase from 60 to 100 fold.

What a clear picture of grace... And how we as gentiles, were blessed with the opportunity to be ‘grafted in’ the family of God with the children of Israel.

Romans 11:19 says it like this; “You will say then, “Branches were broken off so I could be grafted in” We weren’t JUST brought in the family to enjoy Gods affection for His prized Jewish people, we were ‘Grafted in’, in that, we have been made one with Christ.

John 17:21-23 (TPT) Jesus prays this...

“I pray for them all to be joined together as one, even as You & I, Father, are joined together as one; I pray for them to become one with us, so that the world will recognize that you sent me. For the very glory you have given to me, I have given them, so that they will be joined together as one... and experience the same unity that we enjoy”.

Remember the BIG ‘G’s’... Grafting is the Grace of God. The reason (the only reason) we can bear fruit in our lives that brings glory back to God, is because of Jesus’ sacrifice & His finished work! We were crucified with Him, raised to life with Him, and now we get to bear the very fruit of His life & goodness through our new re-born spirit of Christ.

Thank you Jesus!

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July 2014

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

Marriage Takes Three

by: Alicia Klepper

W

hen I first decided to write an article about marriage my thought was “Ooh, this will be fun! I’m a wife of 12 years with a lot to say.” I love marriage, the topic, the discussions, seeing real Christ-centered marriages happening among my friends, praising the Lord for breakthrough and restoration in difficult times. Then I remembered I am a lifelong student of this thing called marriage. I have to choose daily to wake up, walk into the classroom, where the instructor (Jesus Christ) grades my work with grace and mercy, and sometimes a heavy hand, and then teaches me a be er way by molding and changing my heart. It’s not always fun, allowing change, true change, change that rocks my world and penetrates into the core of my flesh-centered heart.

However, it is necessary.

Marriage is important to God; He created it not only to quench our thirst for companionship while on earth, but also to prepare us for our eternal marriage with our Lord Jesus Christ. In Scripture, we are beautifully referenced as His bride: For your Creator will be your husband; the LORD of Heaven’s Armies is His name! He is your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel, the God of all the earth (Isaiah 54:5, NLT).

And like a groom anxiously awaiting his bride at the front of the church, so too does Jesus Christ anticipate our coming: “And I saw the holy city, the new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven like a bride beautifully dressed for her husband” (Revelation 21:2, NLT).

All of the marital and relational change, classroom instruction, and redo’s that I often resist and fight are crucial to my earthly marriage, but more so in my marriage to my Savior, because He is looking.

“That He might present her to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but that she should be holy and without blemish” (Ephesians 5:27, NKJV).

So how do we mirror this kind of spiritual marriage in daily life with our spouse in a world full of business, emotions, temptations, boredom, hectic schedules, and a house full of kids (God love them)? How do I, as a flawed person just striving to prepare myself 40

July 2014

for my eternal marriage with a perfect Creator, create a God-glorified marriage with a fellow flawed human being? We go again to The Word of God: “And further, submit to one another out of reverence for Christ. For wives, this means submit to your husbands as to the Lord. For a husband is the head of his wife as Christ is the head of the church. He is the Savior of his body, the church. As the church submits to Christ, so you wives should submit to your husbands in everything. For husbands, this means love your wives, just as Christ loved the church. He gave up his life for her to make her holy and clean, washed by the cleansing of God’s word” (Ephesians 21:21–26, NLT).

Each spouse holds 100% of the responsibility of the marriage, and our roles are clearly stated. As the wife, I once struggled with verse 22 and the notion of submi ing to my also flawed husband. However, once I truly realized who Christ is, His great love for me, and the salvation of His crucifixion, I began to desire the covering my husband provided. Submission is not always easy, but I have found joy in knowing that I am submi ing to a man who has also been given his role in our marriage, and that is to love me as Christ loves the church and, ultimately, to lay down his life for my spiritual well-being.

This all sounds so simple, yet it took my husband and me years to truly grasp. It wasn’t until we fully submi ed ourselves (individually) to Christ and His calling, His will, and His plan for our lives that we could start to strive for a Christ-mirrored marriage.

It starts with the individual. You can both work and work on your marriage, even with a united front, but not until you hand your own heart, will, spirit, and purpose over to the authority of Christ will He give you the power you need to walk out a holy, Christ-mirrored marriage. You must each come closer to Him in order to obtain oneness with one another.

“As God by creation made two of one, so again by marriage He made one of two.” ~ Thomas Adam

Alicia Klepper and her husband, Mark, have been married for 12 years. Alicia homeschools their three children. The Klepper’s are active members at Peerless Road Church of God of

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Chicken Salad

By Darle

ne Thorn

Ingredients

4 cups cooked chicken breast (chopped or shredded) 1 small apple chopped 1 cup grapes sliced in half 1 teaspoon celery salt 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1 teaspoon dried dill 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1/2 cup mayo 2/3 cup Greek yogurt 6 croissants

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ton

Instructions In a medium bowl combine chicken, celery salt, pepper, dill and garlic powder. Add yogurt and mayonnaise and mix well. Fold in apples and grapes. Serve on croissants.

Serves 6 Total prep time 30 minutes

Darlene Thornton is a

co-manager at White Wing Christian Bookstore. She and her husband Troy have two children.

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

Little Basket, Big Lesson by: Lettie Kirkpatrick Burress

I

t was just a basket. But the basket held a big lesson.

I’ve known for a long time God is in small things, but I love it when He reminds me. I especially love it when He does it unexpectedly. I have come to understand it as a way He indicates His favor.

I spent my life believing I needed to measure up.

Even if my salvation came through Christ, surely I needed to pursue God’s “favor” by working hard. I needed to be reminded that His favor, like my salvation, was all about Him and nothing about me.

That’s the lesson of the basket. I had purchased a piece of bedroom furniture, requiring the addition of three identical baskets. I went on a basket hunt, hoping to quickly access three baskets, not only the correct size, but pleasing to me and affordable as well.

The first place I went had half-price baskets. I did find something that worked in both size and satisfaction. But there were only two and I needed three. Hoping I could obtain a third identical basket at the same store in a nearby city, I purchased those two baskets. But my trip to the second store did not yield my basket. The next day I made a trip to a third store. The baskets were not to be found. Then God took charge to remind me small things ma er when His children are involved.

Walking to the store exit with my husband, I noticed a “clearance” sign.

I was irresistibly drawn and decided to detour in the direction of the sign. Rounding the corner of the “clearance” aisle, I nearly collided with a shopping cart --- filled with baskets identical to the one I needed!

Unfortunately the shopping cart was being pushed by the woman who was about to become proud owner of those baskets. They would soon exit the store, never to be seen by me again.

“Oh!” I exclaimed to this total stranger. “Did you get

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those baskets from the basket section in the back or are they located elsewhere?”

“No, I got them from the back and there aren’t any more” she informed me.

Disappointed, I indicated, “I was looking for some like them.”

“How many did you need?” the lady inquired.

In response to my dejected answer –“Only one” – she immediately reached into her buggy and handed over a basket.

As I paid for my third basket, I was still stunned at the circumstances God had just engineered on my behalf . . . and more stunned that He had intervened to bless me in such an unexpected way. Although I often pray about “small things”, in this case I didn’t remember doing so.

This impromptu provision takes me back to His word. Two verses come to mind.

Isaiah 65:24 tells us “before they call I will answer” and Jesus Himself declared “it is Your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom” (Luke 12: 32 KJV).

In this case, My Heavenly Father, who loves me with a lavish love, simply wanted to give me the basket . . . reminding me that even my small concerns ma er to Him. I need to embrace His gift and thank Him for His goodness. That’s the big lesson of the li le basket.

Lettie Kirkpatrick Burress is a writer, speaker, and conference leader, Lettie’s idea of celebrating life is hiking a great mountain trail, enjoying a Reuben sandwich and a good book at an oudoor cafe, discovering a unique pair of clip-on earrings, and anything chocolate mint. Connect with her at www.writingforhim.com

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

For What Itʼs Worth: Perpetual Problems

By Emily Stone

T

herapy is way more than a toolbox of intervention. Information alone cannot replace professional help. However, information can be very powerful. So, for what it’s worth to you, here is an article offering a therapeutic idea, concept, or intervention that you can try out in your own life or relationships.

You are about to beat your head against the wall.

Are you ever going to get past this argument? It seems like the two of you have been struggling with this issue for the entirety of your relationship.

Have you ever had these thoughts about any subject with your significant other? Perhaps the two of you constantly fuss over finances. One of you is be er at saving than the other one…or perhaps you are both good at saving…or spending…just on different things!

Will the two of you ever move on from this topic?

Maybe. Maybe not.

Drs. John and Julie Go man, couples therapists, researchers, workshop leaders and famous for their “four horsemen idea“, teach therapists and couples that every relationship has what is called some “perpetual problems”. These are problems that arise because of personality differences or individual preferences.

This idea of “perpetual problems” can seem a li le discouraging, but I think it can also be liberating.

It tells me that we are not alone. All couples face these kinds of things. It isn’t the end of the world.

It is important to note here that this article on perpetual problems does not include anything that would be considered abusive in any way including physically, emotionally, or mentally. This kind of behavior is never ok and should not be something that is tolerated.

It might seem like there is not much you can do about perpetual problems, but that is not true. Here are some things you can do: 1. Keep talking. Expect this to be a conversation that continues…perhaps for years! It is a perpetual dialogue, not a one time discussion.

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2 .Be creative. Try new things. For example, if the same person always manages the finances or the children’s schedules, try switching things around. Or, be willing to try that crazy idea your partner has for a week just to see how it goes.

3. Be empathetic. Keep talking and listening… listening to understand. This is important. Pay a ention to what I am about to say. you can understand someone without agreeing with them. Try to really understand your partner’s perspective on this perpetual issue…even if you never change your mind (and perhaps shouldn’t!).

4. Create safe spaces and times. What I mean by this is that you need to have times and places where you don’t talk about your perpetual problems. Give both of you a break from the dialogue. Talking about it constantly will probably not make it go away.

Continue to have fun.

5. Don’t talk about perpetual problems (or any problem!) when you are tired or hungry. Christians struggle with this one citing Ephesians 4:26 when it says: “Don’t let the sun go down on your anger.” Listen, sometimes you just need to go to bed. “Sun” can mean a whole lot of things. It can be used to mean a “season” or a time of life. This verse can also mean that you just need to let it go (don’t start singing that song…don’t do it!) and go to bed. Actually going on to bed can take a lot more strength for a relationship and indicates more health in the relationship than staying up all night ever did.

Here’s something to consider. Perpetual problems probably exist outside of romantic relationships, too.

Your relationships with your boss, your friend, your child…they all have “perpetual problems”, too.

Try to see “perpetual problems” as a chance to grow yourself and the relationship. Perhaps, these perpetual problems will never grow wings and fly away…but maybe, just maybe they will grow your relationship and you.

Emily Stone is a wife, mother, daughter, sister, therapist, professor, pastor’s spouse, writer, reader, tennis player.

• Bibles • Books, • Music • T-Shirts • Cards, • Gifts • and a whole lot more.

We are your full-service Christian Bookstore!

Mention This Ad! We are located at 3750 Keith Street and also at a kiosk in Bradley Square Mall

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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

July 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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: 8/1/2014

Gò0dNews for Everyone

KEEP

IT MOVIN ’

By: Terrie

E. Ruff

“I am your God and will take care of you until youʼre old and your hair is gray. I am the One who made you and will continue to carry you. I will help you and rescue you” (Isa. 46:4).

T

he first time I saw her I knew she was someone special. Her softly colored, short, natural afro should have been indication enough along with her brightly colored outfit, perfectly worn make-up and gorgeous jewelry added to her intrigue. When we finally met, there was an instant bond. She was a combination of the many women I needed and still need in my life. Her spry spirit, love of life and of God drew me to her and continues to do so. Recently we both have faced challenges in our lives and each time I talk with Marion, she ends our conversation with “Terrie, keep it movin.’” We laugh about it now, but with the understanding of how powerful those words are when you have been beat down by the cares of this life. How powerful to have someone in your corner who is cheering for you and encouraging you not to give up but to, “keep it movin’!” Cancer. Divorce.

Death. Disappointments. Betrayal. Financial Issues.

“Keep it movin’!” Loneliness. Unemployment.

Transporation Issues. Depression. “Keep it movin.”

No ma er what you are facing, “Keep it movin’!”

What a powerful and motivational declaration! And it is echoed in Isa. 46:4, when I read it during worship this week, I immediately thought of Marion. “Keep it movin’” is a declaration of faith and belief in a God 50

July 2014

who we know will and is taking care of us. Marion will tell you that He continues to take care of her as she is gracefully aging and living her later years with Him. They have a track record now and she knows that He has and will continue to carry her, help her and rescue her. Although there is 40 years between us, I too have a faith and belief in my personal relationship with God to know that He is taking care of me and will continue to care for me as I age. I know with a deep sense of certainty that He is carrying me and will continue to carry me, help me and rescue me. I will shout it out loud along with Marion, “Keep it movin’!” With God caring for you, carrying you, helping you, and rescuing you, you have all the strength you need to never give up, to allow no weapon to prosper against you, to be more than a conqueror and to keep shouting without hesitation no ma er what you are facing: “Keep it Movin’!”

Terrie E. Ruff is originally from South Carolina, but has been in Tennessee for approximately 23 years. She is a Licensed Master Level Social Worker (LMSW)

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Gò0dNews from the Outdoors

Why Do You Do It? by: Rusty Asble

W

hy Do You Do It? I get that question asked so many times throughout the year. Many people are confused by what I do…so here it goes. My name is Rusty…I am a Recreation Ministry Pastor. Sounds like a confession huh? Yes, Recreation Ministry is an unusual ministry. Yes, it has a broad scope of ministry avenues. Yes, it is many times extremely unique and jumps from extreme to extreme.

Yes, insurance companies get scared by what I do. Yes, I am a Pastor.

It began here. In 1979, I was permi ed to go to South Carolina to spend the week between Christmas and New Year with my Dad. I was 12. That was the week I can remember of an amazing revelation of my love for the outdoors that solidified a forever passion. I got to hunt and hunt and hunt. Whether it was rabbits, deer or quail it captured my heart. At the end of the week, Dad took me to Church. I was not a Church kid but I was with my Dad and that’s all that ma ered. We were riding in his truck going down this long country road with towering pines and hardwoods on both sides. This was the road we drove all week long to go to our hunting spots. As we began to pass his buddies driving the opposite direction I recognized their trucks as Dad waved to them. After about the third truck,

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I asked Dad where they were going? His reply was simple, “hunting”. So I asked, “Why are they not going to Church?” His return reply was “they will never step foot in Church.” That struck me as odd. He then said, “Rusty, they would rather hunt before they would ever go to Church.” So in innocent most honest life changing statement I asked, “Then why don’t we take Church to them?” I remember Dad looking at me and smiling.

So 35 years later I am doing just that, taking Church (Jesus Christ) to people. My foundation verse that Christ has used in my calling and passion is this…

“Whatever a person is like I want to find common ground with him. So he will let me tell him about Christ and let Christ save him.” 1 Corinthians 9:22 Common Ground is the key. How you play and what you do for fun is that available leisure interest + creating relationships by allowing others to get to know you opens doors + allowing others to see something different (Jesus Christ) in you = a chance to share Christ and win others to Him. That is why I do it.

So what’s your passion? How can you use it for Jesus Christ? Every believer has Good News to share. So take the time to share it in all avenues that you do.

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

Denominational Separatists!

T

By: James Richardson

his was wri en for those who rightly wonder why there are so many Christian denominations in existence but also for those who dogmatically defend that theirs is the “correct” one, regardless of who it annoys.

What would Jesus think of His church today? I personally observe much of what I would call “denominational separatism” in print and on the web, all of which frankly is making my head spin. One church believes this, another believes that. All based almost entirely on a select set of passages which seemingly bu ress one particular view or set of doctrines to the polite exclusion of all others. The average unbeliever must think that Christians are schizophrenic in this regard.

Tradition and teaching carried down through the church age is steadfast and unwavering in many mainline denominations. These bear much fruit and strengthen the body of Christ. Yet for every healthy church one can easily find dubious contemporary denominations lurking around the corner. All Christian denominations which choose to be considered apostolic, hold to the essentials of the historic Christian faith. These are drawn from the Old Testament writings, the teachings of Christ and the apostles within the New Testament. The 66 books in Holy Scripture was first canonized by the Council of Nicaea in AD 325 in an effort to a ain consensus in the church through an assembly representing all of Christendom. This council merely confirmed what the apostle Paul had already wri en to young Timothy during the first century when he wrote: “You, however, continue in the things you have learned and become convinced of...and that from childhood you have known the sacred writings which are able to give you the wisdom that leads to salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.”

However Paul did not stop there, he continued: “All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work” (2 Timothy 3:16). There are many great churches across this nation and around the world who hold to these truths. As Paul warned, there are also many churches who are like infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, blown here and there by every wind of teaching. Many precious souls are drawn away from Truth and towards empty promises of good health, timely healing or wealth and prosperity.

The classic definition of a denomination is that of a subgroup within a religion that operates under a common name, tradition, and identity. Don’t get lost in the weeds and stumbling blocks of denominationalism and lose sight of the true prize, a relationship with The Lord of all things. Christians would do well to remember that a church is simply a structure with walls and a roof until it is filled with believers of The Lord Jesus Christ unified as one in the worship of our Savior. The Most High does not live in houses made by human hands but instead dwells in our hearts through faith in Christ.

Oh, what a Savior!

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July 2014

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

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