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About Us
WRITERS
Dr. Alan Hix
Brittany Crabtree
Chandalee Chrisman
Courtney Fox
David Huff
Garrett Nudd
Jamie Hill
Jan Merop
Jennifer Govea
Judy Hood
Kenneth E. Ware
Lindsey Hughes Kiker
Melissa Clayton
Paula Burgner
Dr. Rob Debelak
Stephanie Evans
Zebbie Brewster
SALES
Matthew Ruckman
423-503-1410
Email: goodnewstn@gmail.com
DESIGN
Caleb Prytherch
Kylie Fowler
Email: art.goodnews@gmail.com
PHOTOGRAPHER
Paula Knipp
423-310-4207
GoodNews CM
EDITOR/ARTICLE COORDINATOR
Sandra Gilmore
Email: articles.goodnews@gmail.com
PUBLISHER
Matthew and Bethany Ruckman
Cell: 423-503-1410
Email: goodnewstn@gmail.com
OFFICE
423-790-5378
WEBSITE
goodnewscm.com issuu.com/goodnewscm
Hello Friends,
We want to take a moment to tell you who we are and what we are about. Our names are Matt and Bethany Ruckman and we have six beautiful children, Brendon, Kailey, Andrew, Leah Jean, Emma, and Cooper. We live in Cleveland, Tennessee, and love what this town has to offer! We have started GoodNews Christian Magazine because we feel that when God, family, and community are combined, lives will be changed.
GoodNews Christian Magazine is a complimentary, Christian lifestyle publication. You can find us throughout the community in retail establishments, churches, restaurants, and more. Our magazine opens the door for Christians to work together to grow and strengthen our community through relevant editorial and effective advertising.
GoodNews Christian Magazine is written by men and women in the community who love and serve the Lord. Our hearts are open and willing to be used by God to reach out to the community to spread the GoodNews!
Disclaimer
All of the content in the GoodNews Christian Magazine is for general information and/or use. Such contents does not constitute advice and should not be relied upon in making (or refraining from making) a decision. Any specific advice or replies to queries in any part of the magazine is the personal opinion of such experts/consultants/persons and is not subscribed to by GoodNews Christian Magazine. The information in GoodNews Christian Magazine is provided on an “AS IS” basis, and all warranties, expressed or implied of any kind, regarding any matter pertaining to any information, advice or replies are disclaimed and excluded. We reserve the right to refuse any advertisement or article we deem inappropriate.
from the Pastor’s
The Inspiration of Scripture
by Kenneth E. Ware
IThe Bible is under attack today more than it has ever been throughout history. From liberal publishers altering the masculine third person personal pronouns in reference to God, to skeptics and atheists denying its authority and authenticity, the Holy Scriptures are under attack from the unbelieving world. It is superior to all and inferior to none. It is the rule of all faith and practice. Taken from the New Testament epistles 2 Timothy 3:16-17 and 2 Peter 1:19-21, the inspiration of Scripture is highlighted on two main levels; relevancy and reliability.
The Relevancy of Scripture 2 Peter 1:19-21
God’s word is both timeless and universal truth. It can be applied in any setting, at any time, and to any ethnicity. No wonder the apostle Peter speaks to the matter, stating, “So we have the prophetic word made more sure, to which you do well to pay close attention as to a lamp shining in a dark place, and the morning star arises in your hearts . . . but men moved by the Holy Spirit spoke from God ” (2 Peter 1:19-21).
The Scriptures are so relevant that Peter urges the Christian community to pay close attention to the Word of God. The phrase “pay close attention” is rendered in the Greek New Testament, προσέχω, which means to hold to or to attend to. Think of the process of inspiration as a sailboat being carried along the surface of the sea by strong winds. Holy men of God wrote as the Holy Spirit gave them utterance. How relevant is Scripture? It is “profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness . . .” (2 Timothy 3:16).
The Reliability of Scripture 2 Timothy 3:16-17
One may ask the question, Can I really trust the Bible as accurate and authentic? First of all, a concrete faith in Jesus Christ will solve all doubts concerning the reliability of Scripture. He is the key, door, and foundation to all biblical knowledge. Faith in the Word of God is predicated on one’s faith in the Son of God.
In order to arrest any doubt about the reliability of Scripture, one must appropriate the fact that, “All scripture is inspired by God” (2 Timothy 3:16a). In the original autographs, God
breathed His word into the prophet or apostle (cf., Exo.4:1015; 2 Sam.23:2). Thus, the phrase “inspired by God,” Gr. θεόπνευστος, means God-breathed or breathed into by God. There are two widely accepted concepts of inspiration among good students of Scripture, i.e., the Scriptures are inspired by God a) verbally – every individual word is inspired and b) plenary - all the words are inspired cf., Exo.4:10-15; 32:16; Matt.4:4; Lk 4:4. Cleon Rogers gives a great perspective on the matter. He declares, “The rabbinical teachings was that the Spirit of God was resting on and in the prophets and spoke through them, so that their words did not come from themselves but from the mouth of God.”
From the days of the apostles to the church fathers, the Scriptures are widely accepted and exceptionally known as authentic, authoritative, and accurate. God breathed His Word into the prophets and apostles, and out came the written Word of God. The scriptures were inscribed by men, but inspired by God. The Bible is a Living Word that comes from the Living God. Being without error (inerrant) or without mistakes (infallible) in the original autographs, the Scriptures are the breath of God.
Kenneth E. Ware, M.M., M.A.B.S., M. Div. a graduate of Temple Baptist Seminary, is Pastor of New Sholar Avenue Baptist Church in Chattanooga, Tennessee. He’s also a Christian Writer and an Expository Bible Teacher at Samford University Ministry Training Institute (MTI). He and his wife, Tonia, have been married 29 years.
RPlanning for Retirement: Why It’s
Never Too Early to Start with HRG Money Matters
Lindsey Hughes Kiker with
etirement might seem like a long way off, especially if you’re in your 30s or 40s, but the truth is, the earlier you start planning, the more financially secure your future will be. Hughes Retirement Group understands that planning for retirement is a personal journey, and we are here to help guide you every step of the way. I’m Lindsey, and I’m excited to talk about the importance of retirement planning, especially because it’s something my family knows firsthand. My parents, Rick and Wendy Hughes, founded Hughes Retirement Group with the mission of helping families prepare for a secure financial future.
Before we dive into how to plan for retirement, I want to share a personal story that highlights why it’s so important to plan for the unexpected. I was born three months early and weighed just 1 lb. 7 oz. Doctors were very concerned, and many predicted I would face severe complications. It was a long, difficult journey, but by the grace of God, I’m here today, having defied the odds. From the very beginning, God had a plan for my life, and His hand was upon me through every struggle and triumph. This experience reminds me that life is unpredictable—things don’t always go according to our plans, but God’s plan is always greater. It’s a reminder that preparation, faith, and trust in His guidance can help us navigate the uncertainties of life, including financial planning for the future.
My brother, Granger, and I are at different stages, but we both understand the importance of planning early. In your 30s and 40s, you’re still in a prime position to grow your retirement savings, and we want to show you why that’s so important.
Why Start Planning for Retirement in Your 30s and 40s?
1. The Power of Compound Interest
The earlier you start saving, the more your money can grow over time. Compound interest essentially means
that the money you invest now will earn interest, and that interest will continue to grow as it compounds. Even small contributions in your 30s can have a significant impact on your retirement funds by the time you’re ready to retire.
2. Setting Goals for the Future
By planning now, you have time to figure out exactly what kind of retirement lifestyle you want and set realistic goals. Whether it’s traveling the world or simply enjoying a more relaxed pace of life, knowing what you want helps you determine how much you need to save and where to invest.
3.
More Time to Adjust
Life can be unpredictable, but starting early gives you room to adjust your retirement plan as your circumstances change. Whether you’re building a family, changing careers, or navigating unexpected expenses, having a solid retirement strategy in place can help you adapt.
At Hughes Retirement Group, we take the guesswork out of retirement planning. Our team can provide tailored financial advice to help you make informed decisions. We help you understand things like:
□ Retirement accounts (401(k), IRAs, etc.)
□ Investment strategies
□ Tax planning
□ How to plan for healthcare costs in retirement
We know that everyone’s financial situation is different, and that’s why we create personalized strategies that fit your life, your goals, and your future. No matter where you are in your retirement journey, it’s always a good time to get professional advice and start planning. Remember, it’s never too early to plan for your future! Call HRG to help begin your Retirement Playbook™ by developing your game plan and coaching you to retirement
Retirement planning is the process of determining how you can meet your goals through the proper management of your financial resources.
Tax planning should not only assess your tax situation at retirement and in the present, but also look towards the future.
Social security strategies are various approaches that an individual may take to maximize their social security benefits.
There is more to Medicare than meets the eye. Making the best decision for your situation at age 65 is one of the biggest retirement decisions one may make.
Estate planning is a key element of a successful financial strategy. It ensures you will leave a legacy that provides for your loved ones by properly protecting and distributing your wealth according to your wishes.
If you're ready to take the next step in your retirement planning journey, call (423) 664-4203 today to explore your
Crouching Beast - Hidden (Great Red) Dragon: Genesis 4
by Dr. Rob Debelak
613 Old Testament laws...infractions are potentially endless. The most famous laws are Sinai’s Ten Commandments and examples of failure to follow them abound. In Eden, a single prohibition existed (Genesis 2:1517), and it was broken (3:1-7), setting an avalanche of tragic consequences in motion.
Like Father
Deceived into doubting God’s instruction, the first human pair paid more attention to the words of a serpent. Eating themselves out of house and home, creation was altered in a moment. Lost was the tender stewarding of creatures, abundant resources, and peaceful fellowship. Sin exacted heavy tribute
as their relationship with God, each other, and with themselves suffered. Evicted from Eden, life outside the garden was fraught with pain, tension, and hard work to make a living (3:16-19).
Years of struggle ended in death.
Like Son(s)
Two sons were born (4:1-2), each reflecting on Adam’s vocational traits. Abel’s pastoral inclination recalled Adam’s pre-fall care for animals (2:19-20). Cain was a man of the soil (4:1). Farming was noble work, but the labor required was associated with his father’s penalty. Together, these boys were a portrait of the first man – a man who had a choice.
Each sacrificed (4:3-4). The elder offered from his field; the younger from his flocks. Forbidden fruit, a self-devised covering of leaves, and hiding among the foliage (Genesis 2-3) were negative reminders in Cain’s bloodless gift of vegetation. Abel’s offering, however, (prophetically) kept God’s (anticipated) remedy for sin central in his worship. His was a
sacrifice where the life of one is laid down for another, retelling God’s silent provision of an acceptable covering (3.21).
Both acts of worship are scrutinized against God’s example. God gazed approvingly at Abel’s offering (4:4) but not Cain’s (4:5). Despite each (potentially) offering their best, obedience was preferred (1 Samuel 15:22). There would be no acceptance without obedience and no obedience without humility.
Cain became angry. God calls Cain to turn from ill behavior, and like Adam, he is given a choice for life with a warning of death (4:6–7). The hope of repentance promises acceptance; pursuing the wrong decision courts disaster. Cain faces the temptation to sin, unaware that the threat crouches as a beast lying in wait, ready to pounce and devour a victim (4:7).
Unwilling to humbly follow God’s example, Cain arrogantly preferred to re-define the terms of devotion – the same error of his parents in the garden. Ironically, he would not offer life from the flock, but he would take the life of his brother.
Sadly, Cain succumbed to his enemy. The loss of both sons (4:8-16) recast the life events of their father in themes of death and banishment.
Like Now
The craftiness of a serpent in the garden stood behind the enticement to undermine God’s counsel. Tactically, the enemy gained a foothold by skepticism and redefining God’s command. The adversary’s dart of doubt hit its mark. In Cain’s struggle, evil lurks like the strategic maneuvering of a ferocious predator. Ignoring God’s offer, Cain loved his anger more than life. Opening the door to sin, the stalking beast moved in for the kill.
Centuries later, Peter unmasks this hunter as a ravenous lion pursuing prey (1 Peter 5:8) and John unveils him as a great red dragon persecuting Messiah’s people (Revelation 12:3). The metaphors are flexible, but evil’s intent remains the same.
What About Us?
The threat persists, but the child of God is not defenseless! God’s praiseworthy sacrifice and eternal Word still conquer this foe (Revelation 12:11). Victory or defeat? You choose.
A Name Worth Upholding
by Paula Burgner
What does the meaning of a name mean to you?
When we are born, we are given a name. Most of us go by our first name, but what we are most known for is the last name that we carry. A name can indicate who a person is, what their purpose is, and where they come from. Sometimes a name can be hard to carry yet others are even harder to uphold. The name you carry reveals what you are and how others see you. It’s your responsibility to uphold the reputation that your name implies. When you are lost and living without God in your heart, you can feel like no one cares who you even are, but once you ask God into your heart, you realize that who you are becomes important to someone.
When we hear the name of God, often our first thought is that it is someone we can put our trust in. As the Bible tells us this in *Psalm 9:10 KJV “And they that know thy name will put their trust in thee.” Some take pride in their name while others couldn’t care less. Most of the time people will spend their whole lives chasing after a name that will bring them some kind of honor or they usually want to be associated with a name of a company or label. However, the greatest name that anyone can ever have is being called a child of God, as this name is given to us freely when we accept God into
our hearts, and this is something to be proud of. We should uphold the name “child of God” j ust much as we do our own name.
The Bible says in 1 John 3:1, “ Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not.” As the love of God grows in your heart, you can realize that being called a child of God is knowing that through His love and grace He will keep you and guard you. Just as you uphold your given name, Christians uphold the name of God by staying obedient to God and sharing the word of God. Too often when living without God, you don’t care what anyone says or thinks or how it may be affecting your name. Then once you get saved, you realize the love of God overflows onto you and that’s when you want the world to see your light shine for Him.
One way we do this is when we get baptized. When we are baptized, God’s name becomes our spiritual family name by His spirit and love that live within us. The Bible tells us this in Romans 8:14, “For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.” At that moment when you accept God as your savior, it’s as though He adopts us. It’s at that point that we begin to take pride in upholding His name and bringing honor upon it by the words we say, how we act, and the things we do in this life.
This also applies when we get married, we take on the name of our spouse and we want to uphold that name by honoring them with our words and actions. The Bible tells us this in John 17:6, “I have manifested thy name unto the men which thou gavest me out of the world.”
*All Scriptures are KJV.
Paula Burgner is a strong-willed, outgoing girl who loves spending time with her husband and working out. She believes in her heart that you can do anything you put your mind to. Paula is the author of a new book, Grounded by God’s Grace.
Angela Coates Ramona Thompson
Crissy Graham
Anna K. Carden
for Kids
Munchable Lunchables and So Much More
by Jan Merop
A story retold from John 6:1-13 (with a hint of poetic license).
Iskidded to a halt in front of my mother, and stuttered out, “Pl.. please can I fo..follow the crowd to the meadows? They are fo… following Jesus.”
By the way she looked at me, I could tell she was about to say, “No, Micah!” So I kept pleading.
I had become fascinated with the new Teacher. I knew if my mom didn’t have several other little ones to care for, she may have come along with me.
Finally she said, “Promise me that you won’t wander and will stay with the people of our town?”
‘Y..es! Y..es!” I stammered.
Before she could change her mind, I quickly took the basket of five small barley loaves and two fish mom had packed for me and, blowing her a kiss, I was off.
I could hear the voice of the great Teacher at a distance as my friends and I reached the remote place where the crowd had gathered. We wiggled our way through the crowd till we sat close enough to almost touch Him.
“I’ve ne…never been in such a huge crowd before, have you?” I asked my friends. Shaking their heads no, we poked and elbowed each other in excitement.
One by one, people pressed in till they stood in front of Jesus. Right before my eyes, I saw a lame person leap in the air and run back to his friends. A blind child led by the hand, looked into the face of Jesus and reached to touch her Healer. Astonished, I couldn’t speak as a lump of emotion lodged in my throat.
But, more was still to come… and I had no idea that I would get caught up in it.
I heard the crowd murmuring that they were hungry. My own growling stomach agreed! But it was
Jesus’ discussion with His disciples that really got my attention. Jesus asked, “Where can we buy bread to feed all these people?”
Philip looked at Jesus and said, “Even if we worked for months, we wouldn’t have enough money to feed them!”
My eyes swept over the crowd and I knew the situation was impossible. So, I opened my small meal. But, just as I was
ready to take a bite, I was pulled into a moment I will never, ever forget.
One of Jesus’ disciples, Andrew, pointed to me and said, “There’s a young boy here with five barley loaves and two fish. But what good is that with this huge crowd?”
Now it seemed slow motion took over as Andrew drew me up and brought me to Jesus. Instinctively, I placed my small snack into Jesus’ hands and watched Him look up to heaven and pray thanking God for the bread and later for the fish.
My heart swelled with wonder and wide-eyed adoration as I realized that my tiny offering in the hands of the Master had miraculously multiplied to feed over 5,000 people. Bread and fish never tasted so good; nor would I ever forget the touch of Jesus on me as the basket passed from my hands to His.
At home, I couldn’t sit still as I retold what I had experienced. “And, not only that, He had twelve baskets left over!” Story after story spilled out like a waterfall.
And never did a stutter leave my lips.
Exploring Truth Through God’s Word
“God can do anything, you know – far more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your wildest dreams!” (He is the God of much more than we can ask or think).
Ephesians 3:20, The Message Micah learned this truth from God’s Word first hand.
Children of the King
God loves children! They possess enthusiasm, energy, wonder, excitement and trust.
When that energy is channeled into positive activities that please God, much can be accomplished.
Stay close to God like branches cling to a vine, and He will help you bear much fruit, so much more than you can do on your own.
joyfully
others in
walk. She and her husband Ken have lived in Cleveland for about one year. They enjoy hospitality, Bible study, and walking and hiking in God’s marvelous creation. They have three married sons and five grandchildren and belong to the Church at Grace Point.
About The Author
for Women Never Enough Ice Water
by Brittany Crabtree
Iabsolutely love summer! I enjoy basking in the sunshine and feeling its warmth on my skin. It brings a joy and refreshment to my soul that is unique to its season. However, too much exposure to the sun brings harm. It burns, drains, and dehydrates. If you have ever encountered a heat wave, spent time in the dryness of a desert, or experienced sunburn from being on the beach too long, you know this to be true. A couple of summers ago, my family traveled to New York City during a week with record high temperatures. The entire city was overheated, and AC units could not keep up. I remember going to one restaurant where the air was out, and our waiter repeatedly brought us cups of iced water. Every time he would walk past our table, he would leave more glasses to the point that we had over 30 glasses of iced water for a family of 6. The ice in these glasses quickly melted, and the cups were sliding all over the table! Although hilarious during
the moment, this situation revealed a truth. When the harshness of the hot and dry wilderness is present in our lives, all solutions the world can offer are temporary. It is only the presence and living water of Christ that brings healing and renewal.
The arc of the story of Scripture also points to this revelation. In Exodus, God rescued His people, the Israelites, from the captivity of Egypt and brought them out to a life of freedom. He delivered them through dividing the waters, but He did not immediately lead them into the promised land. God took His people through the wilderness, a dry and desolate place, in which God revealed Himself to His people. He taught the Israelites His character and how to live differently as chosen ones instead of the slaves they previously were. The Lord did not abandon them in these harsh conditions, but He dwelled among them as He corrected and renewed. In His timing, He parted the waters again, as stated in Joshua 3, revealing His wonder and faithfulness in bringing the people into the promise.
As the story of the Israelites continues, the book of Isaiah connects this history with what is to come through Jesus and what we can experience today through relationship with Him. Isaiah 43 looks back on Israel’s past declaring that He is the God who made a way for His people to be free in passing through the sea and through the elements of the wilderness. Verse 2 of this chapter emphasizes the truth that God is present among His people in both situations, when we “pass through the rivers” and when we “walk through the fire” (HCSB). When we go through a wilderness season of rebellion, pressure, or drought, the Lord calls us to Himself to teach us about His character and deliver us through Jesus, the living water. God is near to us and always ready to make a way to healing and newness in our lives.
Throughout the Gospels, we continue to see evidence that God’s heart is to set the captives free through Jesus. John 4 tells of a woman in a difficult wilderness season, an outcast due to the circumstances of her life. She came to the well when the sun was high for the necessity
Southern Charm
of water. At this moment, Jesus is there initiating conversation and reaching out to her. He sees all that she is and has done, and He declares all that He is, the Messiah and Savior, as Isaiah foreshadowed. Amid her captivity and desolation, Jesus offers this woman the only water that is truly satisfying and life giving. He offers her the gift of His salvation.
Today, Jesus offers this gift to you as well. He is still the one who sets captives free! On that extremely hot day in New York, our waiter could never bring enough iced water to our table to provide relief from the heat. However, in every area of your life that is a wilderness, Jesus is present offering the refreshment of living water. He is the only one who will sustain you and bring you faithfully out into His promises and abundant life!
Brittany Crabtree is the Public Kids Director and women’s ministry leader at Public Church
Gò0 dNews for Marriage
Spirit Led Marriages
by David Huff
The Bible is full of wisdom, and guidance for everything that we encounter or do in life. We may not always like or agree with what we see or hear, but the wisdom is there, nonetheless. In Ephesians 5 Paul introduces us to how to live a Spirit-guided relationship as husband and wife. We live in a day and time where divorce is at an all-time high. Roughly 42% of all marriages end in divorce. So, relying on the guidance of God's word to lead our lives and marriages can help us to become stronger and more mature in our marriages.
Husbands are called to love their wives as Christ loves the church. This does not mean we only love when we get sex, food, or whatever dominating task that we use to dictate. I will love you as long as you (fill in the blank). It means we love with all our hearts and that we live a life in Christ that guides and leads our marriages. We are called to love our wives as our bodies. If we as husbands struggle to love ourselves, we must sit down at the foot of the cross and allow ourselves to be cleansed so we can love unconditionally.
We are called to submit to one another as we do to Christ. Here is our first step. If we have not submitted our lives to Christ then we first must start there. By doing this, Christ will lead us to do the following: Wives are called to submit to their husbands as they do to the Lord. The husband is the head of the family just like Christ is the head of the church. Notice it says, “as Christ is the church.” This does not mean husbands are called to dominate, rule over, or have a dictatorship over their wives. Husbands are to lead as Christ leads.
We are called to leave our mothers and fathers and to live a life united as one. This does not mean that we cannot ask for advice. What it means is that we live a life of three. Husband, wife, and Spirit all rolled into one cord. We live a life joined as one man and one woman.
These verses in Ephesians 5:21-31 go against everything we see in this world today. We live in a culture where we are taught from the very beginning of life looking out for ourselves is king. However, God’s word tells us, leads us, and encourages us to treat our marriages as Christ does the church. Is it easy? NO. Does it take constant work? YES. However, it can be done. Doing life together is not always easy, but it is rewarding, and allowing God’s blueprint to guide us is priceless. While I have written this from a husband’s perspective, we are called to do our part in marriage. While some will agree with what has been said and others will not, it is Biblical and the word of God leads us to live and treat each other as Christ does the church and each one of us.
David Huff and his wife, Brittany, have five wonderful kids. Their family attends Rock Bridge Community Church Calhoun where David serves on the production team. David is a graduate of Liberty University and is currently studying for his MBA at Shorter University.
for Single Parents
Faith that Moves Mountains
by Melissa Clayton
Mark 11:12-24
“Jesus replied to them, “Have faith in God, I assure you, if anyone says to this mountain be lifted up and thrown into the sea, and does not doubt in his heart, but believes and what he says will happen, it will be done for him.”
There are so many scriptures in the Bible that talk about the strength of your faith, even if it’s a little bit, as long as it’s pure, then you can move mountains. It doesn’t say we have to be perfect. We can do things like Christ, but only if we truly believe can we have that power. Can we ask for anything even though we say we know Christ? No, He wants us to ask according to His will. He has a perfect plan for us, and when our hearts seek to find out what that plan is, we have that power because our thinking is aligned with God‘s thinking. There was a moment in my adult life that I just couldn’t take any more. I’ve spent my life fighting obstacles, whether it was growing up in a violent non-Christian home, failed
marriages, or believing I was a failure as a single parent. I tried to manage a business and take care of my children, only to feel like a failure when hard times hit. It's hard to see the blessings when the enemy is pounding you! The only one I could ever trust was the Lord. He had been good to me, and I knew that, but often I would forget.
I’ve always figured out a way to survive, to make more money, to take care of my kids. Then came the moment when I felt helpless and defeated. I cried out and I reminded Him that He said in His Word that if I believed in Him, we could move mountains.
After depending on Him all my life, I WANTED TO MOVE A MOUNTAIN because He said in the Scripture that we could. I wanted to hear from God. At that moment, I needed a miracle. Why weren't my situations being resolved? I did not know what to do! Then…. I heard Him.
It’s not something I can explain. He spoke to my heart, “I hear you and now that you have no way to handle the
situation, you realize that I AM your Lord and I AM your Father and you are my child. I want to bless you because I love you. Now, you will see that mountain move.”
An amazing sense of peace overcame me. I believed something was going to happen.
A few days later, a person walked into my life and offered assistance. I knew the person was sent from the Lord. That day and for the next year, things began to happen that I only saw in movies. Prayers were being answered. My life was being put back together. I had doubted that I was ever special in the Lord’s eyes, but in my moment of despair and helplessness, He reached out and showed me His love. He heard me.
Through that time, I realized He was also molding me. He showed me that I had been so stubborn and prideful. That's all I knew: how to survive and not ask for help. He revealed to me that I did not show my appreciation for the things and the blessings that I had received throughout my life. I actually had a hard time accepting His help during this time.
You can know that He loves to help. He loves that you need Him, just like a true parent should. If you have never
experienced that kind of love, then it’s hard to accept. It’s hard to trust. But He is like no other. He is the example of what a father's love should be. We tend to look at the Lord as if He were like our earthly parents, but it’s just the opposite, and I finally understood.
The enemy works on those things he wants you to focus on. He kept reminding me that I was tough and I could handle things myself, that I didn’t need to bother God for anything. In my despair, I realized I can do nothing without Christ. Even though He was in me, I did not believe I could move mountains. Sometimes our mountains have to be transformed. Dependency on the Lord moves mountains. Knowing that your faith in the one and only God and in Jesus Christ, His son, and by the power and strength of His Holy Spirit, you can move mountains. The results are life-changing!
for Everyone
The God Who Sees Me
Have you ever found yourself in a desperate situation devoid of all hope? That is where Hagar finds herself in Genesis 16:7-14. Abram’s wife, Sarai, was barren. According to the custom of Canaanite culture, she used her Egyptian slave, Hagar, as a surrogate mother in hopes of fulfilling God’s promise of an heir by her own efforts.
Once she had conceived, Hagar looked on Sarai with contempt. In the culture of the day, Hagar would still have had the status of a slave in the household, but she appears to have sought to elevate herself into a more favored status. The infuriated Sarai treats Hagar so poorly that she runs away.
Based on the geographic clues in the narrative, the pregnant Hagar had most likely been traveling for at least a week. Exhausted from her journey, Hagar is confronted by an angel of the Lord who asks her where she is going. She confesses that she has run away. God commands her to return and tells her that He will make a great people from her son. “She gave this name to the Lord who spoke to her: ‘You are the God who sees me,’ (El Roi) for she said, ‘I have now seen the One who sees me’” (Genesis 16:13 NIV).
Hagar’s story reminds us that God’s gaze penetrates our most hidden struggles. In the wilderness, far from human help or comfort, Hagar experienced God’s personal attention. The angel acknowledged her pain and gave her a future—a promise that her son, Ishmael, would grow into a great nation. Hagar responded by coining a name for
by Dr. Alan Hix About
God. She named the Lord El Roi, saying, “You are the God who sees me.” This name reflects God’s character, and that understanding of God’s nature transformed her own sense of worth and purpose.
The name El Roi reminds us that God is not distant or indifferent. He is fully aware of our circumstances, our fears, and our heartaches. He sees us not as nameless faces in a crowd but as individuals who are deeply known and loved. This understanding can bring us comfort, especially in times when we feel invisible, overlooked, or abandoned.
Hagar’s story can speak directly to these struggles, even in those times when we are the cause of our problems. Her experience assures us that even when others fail to see us, God always does. His “seeing” is compassionate and purposeful. He meets us in our wilderness—those lonely, barren places where we feel like we’re barely surviving—and He speaks life into our situations. Just as He did with Hagar, He calls us by name and reminds us of our value to Him.
Hagar’s story can also challenge us to reflect God’s character in our interactions with others. If God is the One who sees, we are called to see as well. This means paying attention to those who may feel invisible—the coworker who eats lunch alone, the neighbor who seems withdrawn, or the friend who’s been unusually quiet. As we reach out to people in these situations, we powerfully reflect God’s own love.
As believers, we have the assurance that God’s watchful care extends to every area of our lives. Nothing escapes His notice—not our struggles, our efforts, or our tears. Psalm 56:8 beautifully reminds us that God collects our tears in His bottle and records them in His book. This imagery underscores His deep empathy and care. May this truth move us to be His hands and feet to those around us who need to be seen.
The Author
Alan Hix is Professor of Christian Studies at Shorter University. In addition to being and educator, he has served churches as a pastor, been involved in mission trips to Africa, Canada, and Alaska, and participated in archaeological excavations in Israel for several years.
Dr.
Explore the Lee Online Experience
Many who live and work in Cleveland are familiar with neighbors like Lee University, the centuryold school whose campus hums with activity along Ocoee Street adjacent to Cleveland’s downtown area and historic neighborhoods. But being this close can obscure one of the first programs in Lee’s operation, that of distance education. Hundreds of Lee’s students attend online, from around the globe. And Lee Online serves a broad spectrum of students with varying educational programs and goals. The good news here is that a person living close enough to commute to campus isn’t excluded from Lee’s online learning community, and those within the readership of GoodNews Magazine might find Lee Online to be a perfect fit for their goals.
Life is certainly full of challenges, among them being too much to do and not enough time. But a busy life shouldn’t prevent dreaming, goal setting, or pursuit of one’s calling.
Lee Online's flexible scheduling and affordable tuition make completing the next step in an educational journey possible. Asynchronous 7-week courses allow students to progress week by week, class by class towards program completion, focusing on one or two subjects per session while still
making timely progress. Lee University Online offers a wide array of degrees, including fully online bachelor's and master's degrees. Each degree program is designed to provide a leap forward in a specific academic discipline, while staying true to the Christ-centered perspective that is vital to the Lee University experience.
“One of the things I love most about Lee Online is that we get to help people finish what they started—or realize that it’s never too late to begin again. We get to be a part of making dreams come true, whether it's completing a degree or pursuing a long-held goal. It’s an honor to be a part of the journey.” says Melodia Wilson, Lee’s director of Online and Graduate Admissions.
Lee Online offers a set of certificate tracks as well as two associate degree options. Both associate degrees require at least 60 credit hours and include core areas in general education and religion. Lee Online also offers seven bachelor’s degree programs and multiple emphases. All bachelor’s programs require at least 120 credit hours and include core areas in general education and religion.
Lee Online also offers multiple master's degree programs and a hybrid Doctor of Nursing Practice program, which is 98% online, following a different schedule. All
of these programs are designed to advance one’s career, calling, or both.
Admission to Lee University is based on the completion of an official application and evidence that the applicant possesses the qualities preferred by the respective program for satisfactory achievement in terms of character, ability, academic foundation, purpose, and personality. To be eligible for admission to bachelor’s level coursework through Lee Online, the applicant must have graduated from high school or satisfactorily completed the GED test and have three years of life experience beyond high school graduation.
The university admits students regardless of race, color, national origin, religious preference or disability. Any applicant who does not meet the admission requirements may file an appeal for admissions in the Lee Online Enrollment and Student Services Office.
Lee University offers affordable tuition for its programs and a deferred payment program. Tuition, fees, and discounts for Lee Online programs, such as for first responders, military personnel, or those pursuing ministerial opportunities, are listed on their website.
For those unfamiliar with Lee University generally, it is a private, comprehensive university located in Cleveland, where its sponsoring denomination, the Church of God, is also headquartered. Lee has emerged as a leader in Christ-centered higher education in the southeastern region and is consistently ranked in the "Top Tier" of the Best Regional Universities in the South by U.S. News and World Report. U.S. News also rates Lee’s online programs among the nation’s best year after year.
Lee seeks to provide education that integrates biblical truth as revealed in the Holy Scriptures with truth discovered through the study of arts and sciences and in the practice of various professions. A personal commitment to Jesus Christ as Savior is the controlling perspective from which the educational enterprise is carried out at Lee. The foundational purpose of all educational programs at Lee. as found distilled in its mission statement, “is to develop within the students knowledge, appreciation, understanding, ability, and skills that will prepare them for responsible Christian living in a complex world.”
“At Lee Online, Christ remains at the center of everything we do. It’s not just about earning a degree, it’s about growing in faith, purpose, and calling. That commitment to Christ-centered education is what makes Lee Online truly special and sets us apart.” added Wilson.
Lee University has emerged as an institution of national standing in many areas that are frequently ranked by outside observers. One of the reasons for this emergence is that Lee stands out in a select group of higher education institutions, that of Christ-centered, liberal arts colleges and universities. Another reason is that Lee’s original core values and goals have remained strong even as it has adapted to the changing landscape of academic and professional life.
Lee’s recent success belies its humble beginnings over a century ago. In response to its need for trained Christian workers, the Church of God opened the first term of its Bible Training School on January 1, 1918. There were twelve students in the inaugural class. The very next year, the distance education program was launched and within months enrolled hundreds of students pursuing coursework through mailed correspondence. This program has evolved with technology to its current state in Lee University Online.
Also in the time since its inception the school changed its location and its name twice and grew in enrollment, personnel, program offerings, and acreage. Now Lee draws students from nearly all 50 states and more than 50 countries.
The possibilities for learners of all ages and with different goals are plentiful at Lee Online. Those interested can find out much more at www.leeuniversity.edu/online, or reach out by phone to the Lee Online Enrollment team at 423-614-8370.
Gò0 dNews for Everyone Joyful
by Zebbie Brewster
When I still worked, I loved to treat myself to a Saturday of loafing. I would allot myself so much money to spend and would set off for an adventure. I usually had something in mind that I was looking for. Sometimes it could be found and sometimes not. Please know that we have Trade Day in our town on Tuesdays and Saturdays. It has always been fun to go and see what you might find on that particular Tuesday or Saturday. I remember often you would see people just stopping and visiting with others as they walked around
Trade Day. I can fondly bring to remembrance a homemade porch swing that I bought at Trade Day. I still have it on my porch and that is my happy place. It is amazing how peaceful it is to sit on the front porch and watch the world go by. My cat loves to get my attention and enjoy the quiet time with me. How would I have ever known that swing would bring so much joy?
*Proverbs 17:22a KJV, “A merry heart doeth good like a medicine.”
On another Saturday, we ran upon a dachshund puppy someone had for sale. He was so tiny and my daughter named him “Little Bit.” He could be found where she was at,
as they soon became best friends. I do believe that dog had to be a God-send for all the joy that he brought into our lives. I also will never forget a really special need that God met at Trade Day for me. My young daughter needed some church dresses to wear to church. I remember feeling discouraged as it seemed that I had walked all over Trade Day and not found what I was looking for. I remember looking one more place before we left and found those sweet little dresses that were just her size. You would never believe how much they cost? I bought them for 10 cents each! Without a doubt that was a blessing from The Good Lord. Even now as I remember that special blessing, it is never too late to thank God again for His loving kindness.
Psalm 16:11, “Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fullness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.”
Trade Day has been around for a long time and there are many stories that can be told by others who visit there. It was a time to visit with old friends and make new friends. We need each other and I hope you can take time today to say a kind word to someone. A friend of mine had a T-shirt that asked the question, “How do you know if someone needs encouragement? The answer was “They are breathing!“ A kind word can go a long way, let it begin with you. With a kind word or even a smile, you can bring joy to someone.
Psalm 35:9, “And my soul shall be joyful in the Lord; it shall rejoice in His salvation.”
Nehemiah 8:10, “Then he said unto them, Go your way, eat the fat, and drink the sweet, and send portions unto them for whom nothing is prepared: for this day is holy unto our Lord: neither be ye sorry; for the joy of the Lord is your strength.” Stay strong in Jesus.
*All Scriptures are KJV.
Zebbie Brewster resides in Summerville, Georgia. She is an active member at Perennial Springs Baptist Church.
Gò0 dNews for your Taste Buds Easy Chocolate Fudge
Celebrate Father’s Day in time for National Fudge Day on June 16, 2025, with a simple and delicious Chocolate Fudge recipe. This easy-to-make treat requires just a few ingredients and minimal effort, making it perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or sharing with friends and family. Dad will want some too!
Ingredients
• 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
• 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
• ¼ cup unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt
• Optional toppings: chopped nuts, sea salt, or sprinkles
1. Prepare the Pan:
Instructions
• Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal. Lightly grease the lining with cooking spray or a bit of butter.
2. Melt the Ingredients:
• In a medium saucepan, combine the semisweet chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and unsalted butter. Place over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture is smooth and fully melted. Be careful not to let it burn.
3. Add Vanilla and Salt:
• R emove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Mix well to combine all the flavors.
4. Pour and Set:
• Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly and smooth the top.
5. Add Toppings (Optional):
• If desired, sprinkle your choice of toppings over the top of the fudge while it is still soft. Press them gently into the surface.
6. Chill:
• Refrigerate the fudge for at least 2 hours, or until it is firm and set.
7. Cut and Serve:
• Once the fudge is set, lift it out of the pan using the parchment or foil overhang. Cut into small squares or rectangles. Serve and enjoy!
Tips for Success:
• For a richer flavor, you can use high-quality chocolate chips or even a mix of milk and dark chocolate.
• If you prefer a different flavor, you can stir in ingredients like crushed peppermint, dried fruit, or toffee bits before chilling.
Lord, Show Me You
by Jamie Hill
Lord, show me who You are.
I need to understand.
See, my life has been scarred And I heard You have a master plan.
Whatever You will give, I’ll whole-heartedly receive, Because if You have the world in Your hands, You can surely take care of me.
Lord, show me who You are. I want to abide in Your Word. Teach me Your ways, And for You, I’ll humbly serve.
Lord, show me who You are
So I may gladly proclaim: Tell the world of Your goodness, And say, “Oh, how excellent is Thy name!”
Thank you, Lord. Our living’s not in vain.
Let’s Build Something Together: Caldwell Design & Engineering
Quite often, the most important factor of a successful project is not seen after the initial stages and yet it sustains the project over time. When your project requires reliable, efficient civil engineering in the Southeast states, Caldwell Design & Engineering can deliver exceptional results. This firm offers a range of services including site design, grading design, stormwater design, inspections, and SWPPP permitting, as well as due diligence for commercial, residential, and government sites.
Founder Scott Caldwell explains, “Our small firm understands the unique challenges and requirements of the region. Our experienced team of civil engineers is equipped to handle a wide range of projects from site development and infrastructure design to environmental assessments and construction management.”
Expertise in Education, Experience, and Veteran Service
Caldwell Design & Engineering is a Service Disabled
Veteran Owned Small Business founded by Scott Caldwell who has over 9 years of experience in the civil engineering field.
Scott earned his B.S. in Civil Engineering from Clemson University, along with a B.S. in Agriculture from the University of Tennessee. He also earned a M.S. in Engineering Management from Louisville University. Scott is licensed in Alabama, Arkansas, Colorado, Florida,
Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, and Wyoming as a Civil Engineer, PE.
Since September 2019, Scott has gained work experience as a Drainage Engineer for the City of Cleveland. Previously, Scott worked as a civil engineer for USACE, a civil site designer (E.I.T.) for Ragan-Smith Associates, as well as working for Berry Engineers. Scott is involved with several organizations including ASCE - American Society of Civil Engineers - and MOAAMilitary Officers Association of America. Previously, Scott served as a former military officer. Scott has experience in both commercial and residential site design and municipality design requirements. Scott has gained exceptional software skills in civil design including Auto Civil 3D, Hydro Cad, Auto Turn, Microsoft, and RMS 3.0.
Innovative and Sustainable Solutions
Caldwell continues, “We specialize in innovative, sustainable solutions for residential and commercial projects. From precise land development to seamless construction management, we are committed to delivering excellence, compliance, and results that exceed expectations. We prioritize open communication and collaboration with our clients, ensuring that our solutions are tailored to meet your specific needs and goals. Safety is our top priority, and we adhere to the highest safety standards. Contact us today to learn more about our comprehensive range of services and let us be your trusted partner in building a better future in the Southeast states. Maximize the value and usability of your property with Caldwell Design & Engineering’s professional land planning services. Whether you’re
envisioning a vibrant streetscape, a functional park, or a sustainable development, we’ll bring your vision to life with precision and care.”
Getting Started
To learn more about their projects and services, visit their website www.caldwelld-e.com. The website contains descriptions and even drone footage of their projects. Caldwell shares, “At Caldwell Design and Engineering, every project tells a story of innovation, precision, and dedication. From site feasibility studies to complete land development, our portfolio showcases the diverse range of residential and commercial projects we’ve proudly brought to life. We’re passionate about turning ideas into reality. Whether you’re planning a residential development, a commercial project, or need expert construction management, our team is here to guide you every step of the way. Have questions or need a quote? Fill out the form on the website, and we’ll get back to you promptly. Let’s collaborate to make your project a success!”
for Health & Fitness
Baby Steps to a Balanced Life
by Courtney Fox
“Do you know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies” (1 Corinthians 6:19-20 NIV).
Our bodies belong to God, so let’s take care of them! Since juggling multiple priorities and being busy are a fact of life these days, I’ve compiled a list of tips that can impact overall health as you go about your routines and even while on vacation or business trips.
Adding Steps to Your Day:
• Set reminders to get up and walk.
• Take the stairs when available.
• Use your smartwatch to track your steps. Make it a personal challenge to take so many steps a day.
• Do laps around a track next time you’re at a child's sports practice.
• Don’t worry about parking so close to the door when out shopping. Add in more steps!
• Walk your dog.
• Consider purchasing a treadmill desk if you work from home or sit at a cubicle.
• Take a walk outside the next time you call your friend on the phone.
Cutting Back on Sugar:
• Don’t focus on eliminating foods; instead, find and replace foods with healthier alternatives.
• Make sure you are hydrated, that alone can prevent some cravings.
• Journal how the sugary foods leave you feeling. Reflect on your notes to keep you encouraged as to why you are working towards this lifestyle.
• Pray, ask the Lord for help, run to Him instead of sugar to get through the day (can I get an amen?!).
• Give yourself grace. You can try again in 5 minutes or even tomorrow. It’s not all or nothing. Use a “do your best so you can feel your best” mentality.
• Eventually, cutting out excess sugar will give you more sustainable energy to tackle your life.
Health Tips When Traveling:
• Prioritize routine checkups/screenings to stay healthy.
• Eat nourishing foods, and implement quality vitamins/ supplements. Pack snacks of your own.
• Choose water more often.
• Wash your hands frequently.
• Don’t neglect sunscreen.
• Allow for rest. Don’t overbook reservations, sightseeing outings, or visits with friends or family.
• Consider seasonal vaccines.
• Keep a first-aid kit.
• Pack your essential OTC meds and don’t forget to refill any prescriptions.
• Pack comfortable shoes and socks. Blisters or muscle cramps are unwelcome on trips.
Be encouraged. God has given us so many opportunities to THRIVE in this life. So live well.
Courtney is a married mother to two daughters and a nurse supervisor. She has completed a half marathon, triathlon, and a full marathon. She encourages you to “LIVE WELL!”
Dr. Chance is a holistic chiropractic kinesiologist that utilizes muscle testing to assess and treat the entire body with structural care, chemical/nutritional imbalances, and mental/emotional (NET) work.
STRUCTURAL - any interference with the communication between our brain and our body results in dis-ease and dysfunction. We use advanced chiropractic techniques to identify and correct structurally.
EMOTIONAL - feelings of stress, anger, overwhelm, depression, and anxiety have an underlying source. Whatever we don't express in life, we will repress until it gets expressed in the form of dis-ease, dysfunction or a behavior or characteristic we don't like about ourselves.
Dr. Chance uses Neuro Emotional Technique as a way to find current day stressors that may relate to traumas (big or little) in your past that are suppressing the function of your physiology today.
CHEMICAL - Toxicity and deficiency are the two underlying sources of nutritional imbalances in the body. Dr. Chance uses Professional Applied Kinesiology to address the fields of dysbiosis (ex.. Lyme, fungus, parasites, bacteria, virus, etc.), food sensitivities, toxic metals, hormone imbalances, chemical and electromagnetic field sensitivity, nutrient deficiencies, as well as neurological desensitization techniques.
for Runners
The LORD Provides
by Jennifer Govea
As a runner, there are several things to take into account before stepping out the door including dressing properly based on the season, getting your playlist ready, stretching, and of course, checking the weather. During the summer months in Georgia, however, there is no way around the fact that it is going to be hot, which means that you just have to get over it and get out there anyway. Running in high temperatures can also slow you down, but there are cooler parts of the day when you don’t feel like your skin is melting and you are breathing in hot, humid air. Early morning and early evening are optimal times to be outdoors when doing something as rigorous as running, but going even between 5 pm and 8 pm can prove to be a challenge since temperatures don’t generally drop until after sunset. But running after dark isn’t wise, so that leaves us then with the only option of running in the morning. What’s a girl to do who doesn’t like to get up early?
You may think that running at 7:11 am is early enough, but not on June 30, 2019. I was training for a marathon and set a goal of running 14 miles that day, which meant that I would be under the baking sun for two hours, 23 minutes and 46 seconds. Running that long generates heat anyway in addition to the rising thermometer reaching a maximum of 91.2 degrees a little later that day.
My mom was a media specialist at my middle school. On her office desk was a sign that read, “Poor planning on your part does not constitute an emergency on my part.” So true, so true. Actually stepping out the door takes mental fortitude, knowing you are going to be physically engaged for so long. Besides making sure your phone, headphones, and watch are charged, there is a checklist of eating properly the night before, applying sunscreen the day of, putting on double socks (to reduce blisters), sunglasses, hat, fanny pack, ice in the water bottle, packing a granola bar or gel pack, and then you can begin, which leads me to the heart of this article.
Even though I should have left the house earlier that day to take advantage of cooler temperatures, God was there. He provided “wonderful times of refreshment” 1 on a scorching morning. And He did it in creative ways! There I was, running up Cleveland Highway on a sunny day, and there would be a cluster of trees to provide shade. Or I would run by a small creek or pond where it was naturally cooler. Then a big tractor trailer would fly
by me ushering in a nice breeze. Or, as in the picture here, God would send some cloud coverage to cool me off and screen me from the sun’s searing rays.
Those examples remind me that even when I make the wrong decision, God doesn’t just leave me hanging to fend for myself. He loves me so much that He still helps me despite my poor judgment. Of course there are consequences for being foolish, and His provision doesn’t give me an excuse to continue being unwise. He wants the best for me always 2 and provides multiple opportunities for me to make better choices by turning back to him. He is Jehovah-Jireh. The LORD provides. 3
1 Acts 3:19-20
2 Jeremiah 29:11, John 10:10
3 Genesis 22:14
for Everyone Jesus Is Calling
by Judy Hood
Jesus is calling all people to repent of their sins and live for Him more desperately today than yesterday. He loves all men and women so much that He gave his life to save all who believe. He is Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end according to Revelation 22:13. His power will last forever, throughout all eternity. He created it all, including all of us. Some of us really live our lives on fire for God. Then, some of us live half-heartedly. The rest don’t live for him at all. The world is asleep to the things of God, and even a lot of Christians are asleep.
But regardless of how we live, He loves His children; He has called them by name.
So live for Jesus and be a winner. Jesus will give you a crown of life and a new name when you get to heaven. Jesus made paradise just for his obedient followers, including your very own mansion. Just think about it, streets paved with the purest, iridescent gold, jewels sparkling everywhere, and walking on the Crystal Sea. But, best of all is the Lamb (Jesus) who will light the whole place.
You may ask, if He loves us so much; then why does He let so many go through bad things? The answer is really simple. It’s not God putting these hard things on us. God is love. He came that we may have life and have it more abundantly, according to John 10:10.
Why would you want to give up all the pleasures of heaven for a place in hell where all there will be is crying and gnashing of teeth, where you will burn in a lake of fire for all eternity? Satan is definitely not your friend! He is a liar and the father of lies. He knows his time is short, so he’s trying to take everyone with him to his home for eternity, the lake of fire.
Jesus loves us all. So, let’s get our lives in order and live for the Lord so we may live in heaven for all eternity. God is a rewarder to those who diligently seek him. Seeking God
When Satan fell from heaven, God made him the prince of the air. Satan has abused man ever since. Satan came to kill, steal, and destroy per John 10:10. He absolutely loves the fact that although he is the one who brings sickness, disease, and violence upon people, God is the one who usually gets the blame. Satan enjoys blinding man’s eyes to the truth. But Jesus has fought the war against Satan, and so we win! Praise God, we have an intercessor, Jesus Christ who hung on the cross for our salvation that gives man the privilege, through the blood of Jesus, to enter into God’s Paradise.
includes spending time with Him, reading His word daily, and praying without ceasing. Always follow God’s word and His commandments. If you follow the ways of the Lord, He will fill you with so much joy, you could never contain it all. It will be contagious. Like it says in Proverbs 31:25, “she laughs without fear of the future.”
I beseech you to start following God. Then, you will walk into the purpose God has for your life. May God bless you and keep you in His care through all your endeavors on this earth. I hope to meet you in heaven some sweet day.
You can get Judy Hood’s poetry books at the Cleveland Public Library.
Re-loading
by Garrett Nudd
Igrew up the oldest of three boys, and after 40-plus years, I’m still the oldest. When we were teens, we worked at Rolling Hills Golf Course in Cleveland. We picked range balls, washed golf carts, mowed greens and tees, changed pins, and pretty much anything else that needed to be done. It was a great job because we’d start early in the morning, and when we finished, we could play golf in the afternoon.
It can get hot on the golf course, especially during the peak summer months. One year during spring break—in anticipation of the upcoming summer—at our boss’s request, my brothers and I volunteered to build small house-like structures to hold the water coolers that would sit at key locations around the course.
We sketched out our plan, showed our boss, and gave him a budget proposal. My brother, Brandon and I borrowed the golf course owner’s pick-up truck and headed to the local building supply and lumber yard.
There’s nothing quite like the lumber yard. It smells like creativity and resourcefulness. Row after row of fresh lumber, displayed neatly in tall stacks. I remembered going to the lumber yard with my father as a child, and it was always so much fun. Even today, it's nostalgic.
We carefully selected our materials: several 2x2s for the corners, 2x4s for the roof peak, cedar siding for the sides and the roof, hinges so the back door would swing open, and plenty of nails and screws.
After getting our supplies, we loaded up our boss’s truck. We were excited and optimistic as we headed back to the maintenance barn at the golf course, where our creativity and craftsmanship would be on full display.
I carefully pulled out of the parking lot and turned right at the light onto 22nd Street next to the on-ramp to I-75. And as I did, we heard a loud woosh followed by an even louder crashing sound. I frantically looked in the rearview mirror, and to my horror, our stack of lumber
lay scattered in the intersection behind us like a pile of pick-up sticks! In our excitement to begin construction, I had forgotten to close the tailgate and secure our load.
Cars were swerving and honking, and I immediately pulled over to the side of the road and turned on the emergency flashers. Have you ever noticed how hard it is to find your emergency flashers when you actually need them? Well, you should try finding them in someone else’s vehicle when you’ve just dropped a load of lumber in the middle of the street! Yikes!
Mere seconds later a car pulled in behind us, and out popped our grandfather. As a realtor, he spent a lot of time in his car driving around town, and he just happened to be driving by. He had no idea it was us. I guess he just felt sorry for the person in the pick-up truck whose cargo was scattered throughout the intersection, so he’d stopped to help.
When he saw it was Brandon and me, he laughed and laughed while helping us reload our lumber into the truck and close the tailgate.
Years later, and as an adult, I’ve realized that sometimes we lose our grip and life goes spilling into
the intersection. It can be discouraging, awkward, embarrassing, and sometimes downright devastating.
But God says, “When you call on me, I will listen. When you search for me, I will restore you” (Jeremiah 29: 12-14).
Is God your first call? Do you talk to Him daily?
Do you ask Him for protection, guidance, patience, wisdom and discernment?
Is He on your speed dial or list of iPhone favorites?
I used to think God was always watching, waiting for us to mess up. But now I know He’s watching because He’s ready to help, eager to provide us with everything we need, just when we need it.
When we come to an intersection and everything we’re carrying goes spilling across the road, God pulls in behind us and helps pick things up.
SLEEP WELL, LIVE WELL
Garrett Nudd serves as director of communications for AdventHealth Georgia. His recent book, MORE THAN: Discovering How Your Story Reveals God’s Beautiful Truth About You, challenges readers to shift their paradigm from less than to MORE THAN.
for Relationships Sand Darts and Joy Stealers
by Chandalee Chrisman
The in-between of life can be difficult. It’s sometimes called the “sandwich generation,” and for good reason. Grieving yet celebrating adult children launching while supporting and grieving, ailing parents can leave us sandwiched between, exhausted, and overwhelmed.
In the last year, I've endured personal health crises, launched one adult child to another state and one to a different continent, been a caretaker following surgery for one parent and received a terminal cancer diagnosis for another. After months of nonstop care for others, I needed to rest with my toes in the sand and the sun on my face!
Vacation began with choppy waves and high winds. As we placed our chairs and umbrella in the sand, I settled into my escape for the weekend—reading a fiction book.
As the morning progressed, I felt something stinging my legs. Then, I noticed every time someone walked by, I'd feel prickly stinging on my arms and face! I sat there, increasingly upset with every person who passed. I have a love/hate relationship with sand. I love having my toes in it but I hate it on anything else! With each new blast of sand blown on me, my mood sank, and my attitude grew more snippy. Why couldn't I get a break—even at a beautiful beach with a phenomenal view?
As the pelting continued, I glanced around, but no one else seemed bothered by the flying sand darts. Even with its high waves, those closer to the tide line appeared to have none of these irritants! At first, that made me even more angry! But why?
Amid the noise of the waves and chaos of flying sand, I sensed the words, “Change your perspective.” What? I heard it again before I relented and moved my chair closer to the raging waves. As I repositioned near the water, no sand was blowing!
Once I changed my perspective (and position), I experienced a blissful day of rest and refreshment, even though I was closer to the chaos. This shift in perspective brought a sense of relief I hadn't felt in a long time, revealing a choice to peace is always available!
While journaling, I realized my current circumstances could benefit from “change your perspective,” too! In the middle of grieving my babies growing up, my mom's surgical recovery and my dad's terminal diagnosis, I needed to change my perspective. The feelings of grief and hopelessness relentlessly came at me, much like the pelting sand at the beach. Psalm 27:8 (CSB) says, “Seek His face.” By choosing to seek God instead of dwelling alone in my grief and being overwhelmed, my perspective changes, shifting from fear and dread to, “The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom should I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life—whom should I dread?” (Psalm 27:1 CSB). Much like moving closer to the waves and receiving relief from the pelting sand, I'm more at peace when I choose to move closer to Him.
Another perspective change my counselor recommended is finding joy daily and writing it down. Although it might be hard to find, it's always there. Look for the small things: a meal with the family, watching my terminal parent ride his bike up the street, or enjoying a beautiful sunset. After recording joy, acknowledge and write down what stole joy—name it, but discard it!
The practices of seeking God, celebrating the joys, and releasing joy stealers have empowered me to take control of my emotions and embrace joy, even sandwiched between these challenging circumstances.
for Seniors
Dad’s Tobacco
by Stephanie Evans
“While the earth remaineth, seedtime and harvest, and cold and heat, and summer and winter, and day and night shall not cease” (Genesis 8:22 KJV).
A large, striped hornet zipped up from a back porch well and stung my neck--a hypodermic stab near my jugular vein on a hot humid summer day in Pisgah, Alabama, where people kept their hearts, their cemeteries and their homes as clean and neat as rows of garden butter beans and as sharply sweet as Sand Mountain sorghum syrup slowed over breakfast biscuits.
Our family visited our dad's Pisgah and Ft. Payne, Alabama relatives from time to time to tend the graves of the dead and chat with the living. On this hornet-sting day, when I was around 12 years old, my dad wanted me to taste fresh water from an authentic well. My four younger brothers played nearby with our mom while Dad and I walked side-by-side through cut grass toward the well, attached to a relative's frame house painted subtle tones of dove gray and eggshell white.
Dad and I stood quietly by the back porch well. Dad reached for a long-handled tin ladle to dip, so he could give me a drink of that cool, distinctive water from deep in the earth.
And yet, just as Dad looked down, that fearful hornet flew up and popped me, followed by my shaky panic and fearful sobs. The hornet escaped. But my dad, steady as an Army sniper, reached into his pouch of Sir Walter Raleigh loose pipe tobacco. He spat into a wad of tobacco and pressed that numbing poultice firmly onto my neck with his strong, electrician-lineman hands.
Gradually, my heart quit racing, my sobs quieted, and the sting's pain subsided. Dad's luminous presence alone often calmed me and other people down. His actions—like making homemade ice cream for families, buying a gold cross necklace for our mom, playing catch with my brothers or neighbors, or healing my sting—silently announced: “You matter to me.”
Dad liked to help people. Similar to the peaceful farm land in Pisgah, Dad embraced and nourished life. One summer, he grew a garden near the city of Montgomery, Alabama, where we resided for a few years before Dad took a job with the Tennessee Valley Authority and moved us to Cleveland, Tennessee.
For a little while before that, we lived on a Deatsville, Alabama farm. But Dad saw Mom missed her city friends, and so did we. Both parents worried we'd miss out on the excellent city schools. So we moved back to Montgomery. Still, we got to visit the open spaces like we did that vacation day in Pisgah. We enjoyed staying with our grandparents in Oxford, Alabama, and swimming in ice-cold, clear Coldwater Creek each summer. Yearly, we traveled to Sand Mountain for family reunions at Clara's house—with the loving relatives, good food, and welcoming fields that first loved Dad and held themselves in his heart.
Dad passed in 2016. His five adult children still cry when we talk about him. On the afternoon we took him back to the ground in that casket, I wept. “He's like that song 'StoutHearted Men,'” I cried. My second brother looked back at me and said, “His heart was the strongest part of him.”
We still love and miss you, Dad. You were the very best. Roll Tide Roll.
Stephanie Evans is a retired newspaper reporter/library clerk. She is a mother and grandmother, She enjoys semi-sweet iced tea with just about everything! One of her favorite verses is John 3:16-17.
Cleveland Church Directory
African Methodist Episcopal
Price Memorial AME Zion 254 Dooley Street NE, Cleveland, TN 37311
Anglican
Mission Cleveland 1165 Church St SE, Cleveland, TN 37311
Apostolic
First Apostolic Church Of Cleveland 4859 Freewill Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (229) 343-6880
Assembly of God
The Collectives Church 1976 Westland Dr SW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 641-0193
Triune Assembly 301 Sunset Drive Cleveland, TN 37312
Baptist
Antioch Baptist Church
2807 Old Alabama Rd. SW McDonald, TN 37353
Avenue Church
1720 Perry St SE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-0489
Beacon Baptist Church 505 Corvin Rd NE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 472-7056
Bellefounte Baptist Church
132 Bellfounte Rd NE, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 336-2312
Bethel Baptist Tabernacle
3165 Buchanan Rd SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 479-5820
Berean Baptist Church
2355 Bucks Pocket Rd SE, Old Fort, TN 37362 (423) 478-1697
Big Spring Baptist Church 1415 Hardwick St SE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-1101
Blue Springs Baptist Church 699 Blue Springs Church Rd SW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-0932
Candies Creek Church
294 Old Eureka Rd Charleston, TN 37310 (423) 479-3731
Cedar Springs Baptist Church 723 Cedar Springs Church Rd SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 479-5506
Center Point Baptist Church 1205 Lower River Rd NW Charleston, TN 37310 (423) 336-2133
Cleveland Cowboy Church 3040 Blythe Rd. Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-7936
Cloverleaf Baptist Church 2290 Waterlevel Highway Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 339-3617
Clingan Ridge Baptist Church 2412 Georgetown Road, NW Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 472-3511
Covenant Baptist Church
249 Calhoun Rd SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 559-2653
Dalton Pike Baptist Church 3055 Benton Pike NE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 472-7606
East Cleveland Baptist Church 1145 Arnold St NE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-8728
Echos of Mercy Baptist Church 535 Durkee Rd SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 715-9739
Elkmont Baptist Church 4030 Old Freewill Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 479-4600
Emmanuel Baptist Church 1227 Powerline Dr NE, Cleveland, TN 37323
Farmland Community Church 1675 Greendale Dr. SE Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 473-9891
First Baptist Church 1275 Stuart Road Cleveland, Tennessee 37312 (423) 709-9100
Galilee Baptist Church
665 Old Chattanooga Pike SW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 241-2740
Henegar Baptist Church 7423 Mouse Creek Rd. Cleveland, TN 37312
Hopewell Baptist Church 188 Old Georgetown Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 479-3763
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
New Salem Baptist Church
175 Ladd Springs Rd, Cleveland, TN 37323
North Cleveland Baptist Church 2815 Ocoee St N, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 476-8524
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 185 Meadow Ln SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 339-5522
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 Baptist Church 799 Inman Street East Cleveland, Tennessee 37311 (423) 476-4081
Public Church 850 17th St. NW Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 458-4405
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 138 Osment Rd SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 339-0103
Shiloh Baptist Church 357 Highway 64 Ocoee, TN 37361 (423) 338-4292
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 4657 Spring Place Rd SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 472-7707
Waterville Baptist Church 4555 Dalton Pike SE, Cleveland, TN 37323
(423) 472-5582
West Cleveland Baptist Church 1959 Westland Dr SW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-8927
Westwood Baptist Church 4001 Georgetown Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 472-1534
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 695 S Ocoee St, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-2642
Church of Christ
North Bradley Church of Christ 1510 Stuart Road NE, Suite 207 Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 473-3298
Church of God
Community Chapel Church of God 807 Blythe Ave SE Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 479-2143
Church of God Sanctified, Inc. 746 First Street N.E. Cleveland, TN. 37311 (423) 479-3895
East Cleveland Church of God 900 15th St NE Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 479-3389
Fellowship of Praise Church of God 931 Inman Street East Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 479-3121
Grace Community Church of God 4745 Mouse Creek Road NW, Cleveland, TN 37312. (423) 614-0708
Heritage Fellowship Church 4635 South 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
Kinser Church of God 141 Kinser Road Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 476-7400
Lakeview Community Church 105 Pound Street SE Cleveland, TN 37323 (423)-790-5805
North Cleveland Church of God 335 11th St NE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-5513
Michigan Avenue Church of God 515 Minnis Road NE (423) 284-7573
Mt Olive Church of God
3522 Harrison Pike, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 479-3381
Mt View Church of God
210 Roadway Dr SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (706) 455-3528
Pine Hill Church of God 1484 Old Alabama Rd McDonald, TN 37353 (423) 488-0939
South Cleveland Church of God 1846 Volunteer Dr SW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-6382
Westmore Church of God 2440 Legacy Pkwy NW Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 479-3415
Church of God of Prophecy
Cleveland Spanish COGOP 2610 Grove Ave. Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 473-7199
Durkee Road COGOP 201 Durkee Rd. Cleveland, TN 37312 (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, TN 37311 (423) 476-6414
Wildwood COGOP 140 Wildwood Ave Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 479-6584
The Church of God
The Church of God Jerusalem Acres 1826 Dalton Pike SE Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-1597
Community
Fellowship in Christ 1025 Beech Circle NW Cleveland TN 37312 (423) 314-2382
Disciples of Christ
First Christian Church 3625 N. Ocoee Street Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 472-6682
Episcopal Saint Luke’s Episcopal Church 320 Broad St NW, Cleveland, TN 37311
Lutheran
First Lutheran Church 195 McIntire Ave NE, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 472-6811
Latter-day Saints
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 4200 Pryor Rd N.E. Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 503-6394
Methodist
Big Springs Methodist Church 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
Mt. Zion Methodist Church 7223 Georgetown Rd Cleveland, TN 37312
Pleasant Grove Community Church 3043 Pleasant Grove Church Rd SW Cleveland, TN 37311
Red Hill United Methodist Church 527 Red Hill Valley Road SE Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 728-5413
Tasso United Methodist 1106 Tasso Ln NE, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 479-4457
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
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
Revolution Life Church 1525 Jones Ave SW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 310-7287
Full Gospel House of Prayer 1500 Wildwood Ave. Cleveland, TN
Nazarene
Cleveland First Church Of The Nazarene 2712 Henderson Ave. Cleveland, TN 37312 423-472-7371
New Hope Church of the Nazarene 4514 Waterlevel Highway Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 473-3379
Non-Denominational
Benton Pike House Of Prayer 2615 Peach Orchard Hill Rd, Cleveland, TN 37323
Christian Fellowship Ctr 895 6th St NE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 479-9591
Church Alive Ministries 6315 Mouse Creek Road NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 476-8133
Church At Grace Point 2595 Old Freewill Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 728-5050
Cleveland Community Chapel
1823 Forest Ridge Dr. Cleveland, TN 37311
Cleveland Cornerstone Church 533 Broad St NW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 479-1775
Community Hall Church 1305 6th Street Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-2178
Crossroads Community Church 1000 South Lee Highway Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 716-2871
Dwelling Place Church International 523 Urbane Road NE Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 790-5200
Eagle’s Chapel Church 133 Beaty Dr NW Cleveland, TN 37312
Eleven22 Church 1701 South Lee Hwy Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 488-4526
Evening Light Gospel 200 20th St SE Cleveland, TN 37311
Freedom Fellowship Church 3555 Blue Springs Rd, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 478-0654
God’s Family Fellowship 2823 South Lee Hwy Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 458-4490
Graceway Chapel 221 14th St NW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 728-2226
Jacob’s Tent Fellowship 1080 Montgomery Ave NE, Cleveland, TN 37311
The Journey Church 3191 South Lee Hwy, McDonald, TN 37353 (423) 728-4100
Living By Faith Ministries 1175 King Edward Avenue Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 457-9072
Living Stones Church 4165 Peerless Rd NW Cleveland, TN 37312
Living Word Church 930 25th Street NW Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 339-3028
Mount Zion Prayer Center 650 25th Street NW Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 478-5044
New Life Bible Church 155 S Ocoee St, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-3882
Redemption To The Nations 2750 Keith Street NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 591-7886
Restoration Fellowship 211 Trewhitt Dr SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 479-4249
Rock Bridge Community Church 3635 Georgetown Rd, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 641-1485
The Sanctuary 1203 Smith Dr. Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 478-2843
Tasso Christian Church 1135 Tasso Lane, Cleveland, TN 37312
(423) 479-2705
The TRIBE 1175 King Edward Avenue SE Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 380-8802
Tri-State Cowboy Church 200 Natures Trail SW, McDonald, TN 37353 (Building 3) (423) 303-8954
United Christian Church 2200 Peerless Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 479-4277
Unity Christian Ministries 2419 Georgetown Rd NW Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 473-9338
Walker Valley Community 787 Lauderdale Memorial Hwy Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 336-9696
Wings Of Love House Of Prayer 855 5th Street SE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 716-5394
Presbyterian
Charleston Cumberland Presbyterian Church 8267 N Lee Hwy, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 336-5004
First Cumberland Presbyterian 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 515 Flint Springs Rd Cleveland TN. 37323 (423) 284-6397
Prospect United Cumberland Presbyterian Church 310 New Murraytown Rd. NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 476-6181
St James Cumberland Presbyterian 151 Short St NE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-5762
Trinity Presbyterian PCA 1780 Stuart Rd. NE, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 559-9595
Seventh Day Adventist
Bowman Hills Adventist 300 Westview Dr NE Cleveland, TN 37312
Cleveland Fellowship Church 211 Trewhitt Drive Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 671-7497
East Cleveland Seventh-Day 801 Howard Circle SE Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-9299
Ladd Springs Seventh-Day 5860 Bates Pike SE Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 476-1889
Zion Assembly
Zion Assembly Church of God 5512 Waterlevel Hwy, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 476-3337
