October 2015

Gò0dNews October 2015

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• What Is the Church? p. 6 • Parenting in Pain p. 20 • Friendship p. 54

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Writers

Pastor Mike Shreve Andrew Lee Angie Parris Beth Houle Craig Gray Esmerelda Lee Fernando Alejandro J. Adam Lowe John Garrod Julius McCarter Kelly Hixson Kelly McDonald Lindsey Cooke Melissa Noble Snyder Nathan Long Nikki DeLong Paulette Lewis Rhiannon Skeen Shibu Joseph William Lamb

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GoodNews Christian Magazine is a complimentary, Christian lifestyle publication.

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Letter from the Editor

W

ith October comes many changes. The leaves are changing to brilliant colors, the temperature is cooler, which alerts us to turn up the thermostat, pull out heavier clothes, and put away our sandals and flip-flops. Summer is past. It’s time to move into a new season and realize that change is not our enemy—it’s part of life!

We often experience personal changes in our health or surroundings, which may be awkward and uncomfortable at first. That doesn’t mean it’s wrong—just that it’s new. Soon it gets easier. Remember, it takes hundreds of blows for a stone-cutter to split a rock. Each stroke combines with those before, building eventual success. Learning to handle change

happens the same way.

We all have an emotional thermostat that wants to return us to the comfort of our preset status quo based on our old beliefs. This thermostat is built on years of reinforcement and must be reset in this process. No wonder change is a challenge.

If you treat change as an enemy, if you try to keep it from touching your life, it will penetrate more, and you’ll be under greater pressure. But if you look at change as a friend, as something that’s going to happen to you anyway, things are different. Ask, “How can I make the best of this situation?

How can I look at change as an opportunity for improvement?”

The good news is that when our conscious beliefs match our unconscious beliefs, there is no stopping us. When this happens, we are living life from the inside out. Put another way, we are living a congruent life. It is this congruency that allows us to fulfill our purpose, achieve our goals with peace, and be our very best. Rhiannon Skeen’s article (p. 44) describes this process.

Sometimes the changes that produce stress are the very things that give color and enjoyment to life. The things that have enriched my life are often found in situations I might have avoided if I were afraid of change and challenge. Dealing with the challenges has made me stronger and better able to withstand pressure. Ezekiel 36:26 gives us this promise: “I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you” (NKJV).

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.

Contents 14

GoodNews from the Pastor’s Desk

6

What Is the Church?

by Pastor Mike Shreve

GoodNews for Everyone

8

Cleveland Apple Festival 2015—Don’t Miss It

GoodNews on Money Matters

10 Knowing What to Do and Then Doing It

by Andrew Lee

GoodNews for Men

12 Strength

by Nathan Long

GoodNews for Women

14 Girls with Swords Are BattleWorthy Opponents

by Melissa Noble Snyder

GoodNews for Parents

20 Parenting in Pain

by Shibu Joseph

GoodNews for Kids

22 Teaching Our Children to Be Liberators

by J. Adam Lowe

28

GoodNews for Everyone

24 Playground Workouts

by Lindsey Cooke

GoodNews for Teens

26 God’s Grace Is Sufficient

by Fernando Alejandro

GoodNews Cover Story

28 Wooden Bells

by Nikki DeLong

GoodNews for Couples

32 The Power of Words

by Beth Houle

GoodNews for Seniors

34 Authenticity and Passion— the Keys to Senior Living

by Esmerelda Lee

GoodNews for Everyone

36 Dealing with Frustration

by Kelly McDonald

GoodNews for Everyone

38 The Joy of Giving

by Paulette G Lewis

44

GoodNews for Everyone

40 Restoration and Miracles through the Death of a Loved One

by Kelly Hixson

GoodNews for your Taste Buds

42 A Month of Crock Pot Cooking

by Angie Parris

GoodNews for Everyone

44 Time for Peace

by Rhiannon Skeen

GoodNews for Everyone

46 The Spiritual Discipline of Listening

by Julius McCarter

GoodNews for Everyone

50 Love One Another

by John Garrod

GoodNews for Service

52 You Can’t Sleep Your Life Away

by William Lamb GoodNews for Everyone

54 Friendship

by Craig Gray

Gò0dNews from the Pastor’s Desk

What Is the Church?

by Mike Shreve

A

cts 2:47 explains, “The Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved.” So from the start, “the church” was a work of God, not a work of man. The word “church” is translated from the Greek word ecclesia (pronounced ek-klaysee’-ah) meaning “called out ones.” So all who are in the church have been called out of darkness into His marvelous light” (see 1 Pet. 2:9).

Presently, over two billion people claim the Christian faith in this world. However, there is a “professing church” (those who profess an intellectual belief in a historical Christ) and a smaller-in-number “possessing church” at its core (those who possess a genuine, personal relationship with Jesus). This latter group is made up of sincere lovers of God out of every denomination who are born again (John 3:1-7). This is the true church—not an organization, but a living organism—the body of Christ worldwide.

The church is the most valuable institution in the world. Acts 20:28 declares we are “the church of God which He has purchased with His own blood.”

Whenever we purchase something, we must first be convinced that the item is more valuable to us than the price—or we will never make the transaction. In like manner, God must have decided that even though we were sin-stained and under a curse, we were more valuable to Him than His own blood. How amazing is that!

The Church Is the Most Important Institution in the World

The church is called “the pillar and foundation of the truth” (1 Tim. 3:15 NKJV). This world is saturated with deception. But the church is a memorial “pillar” raised up high above all nations radiating the bright

6 // October 2015

light of truth. Furthermore, the church is a strong foundation on which God is building His eternal plans and purposes. Without this influence, there is no hope for the seed of Adam.

The Church Is the Most Blessed Institution in the World

The Savior asked Peter, “What do people say about the Son of Man?” The chief apostle responded, “Some people say you are John the Baptist . . . or some other prophet.”

Jesus replied, “Who do you say that I am?”

Peter answered, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God” (Matt. 16:13-16 CEV). Jesus then declared Peter was blessed because he received that insight from God, not from people—then He declared: “Upon this rock I will build My church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it” (Matt. 16:18 KJV).

In other words, the greatest adversaries of the human race—death, the grave, eternal destruction— will not triumph over the Church because it has been formed, not by doctrinal persuasion, but by supernatural revelation. Therefore, absolutely nothing can prevent its members from obtaining ultimate victory, because God declares Himself both "the Author and the Finisher of our faith" (Heb. 12:2). At the resurrection we will emerge: “A glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but . . . holy and without blemish” (Eph. 5:27).

Yes, we will then be “called out” of time into eternity, and ultimate, absolute, irreversible victory will be ours—forevermore!

Mike Shreve and his wife Elizabeth pastor The Sanctuary in Cleveland, Tennessee. They also run a Christian publishing company called Deeper Revelation Books. Their church celebrates the Old Testament feasts from a New Covenant perspective. www.shreveministries.org

Gò0dNews for Everyone

Cleveland Apple Festival 2015—Don’t Miss It

C

Great entertainment, outstanding food, excellent craft venders, fun rides, petting zoo, pony rides, kids’ bounce houses—it’s all part of a street festival.

leveland will come alive October 17-18 with the

Festival again this year,” said Trailhead’s Charles Nelson. “We

annual two-day Cleveland Apple Festival in beautiful

really love seeing the winners pedal away on their new bikes

downtown Cleveland. The greatest benefit is all

they’ve won.” A drawing for winners will be held at 5 p.m.

proceeds from the festival are given to charity.

“It’s going to be better than ever this year,” said Event

Coordinator Sandi Martin. “This is Cleveland Apple Festival’s

Saturday and Sunday afternoons. Winners must be present at the drawing to receive the prize.

Chuck McSpadden from Apple Valley Orchards and

fourteenth year, and it has gotten better every time. We’re

one of the primary sponsors said, “We’re gearing up for the

looking forward to great weather, great food, and great

biggest and best Apple Festival ever.” At the festival, you’ll find

fun.” Martin has recruited and trained a team of sixty

many varieties of apples and apple goodies, including the ever

volunteers, but there’s room for more. If you are interested

popular fried apple pies. Some of the best food in the tri-state

in volunteering, email info@clevelandapplefestival.org. “We are

area will be featured at the festival this year, including barbecue,

expecting more than 125 amazing vendors,” said Martin, “But

funnel cakes, kettle corn, hot dogs, and other great food.

we still have room for a few last-minute entries before the

Apple Festival brings a great variety of entertainment to

October 7 deadline.” More information is available at www.

downtown Cleveland. Favorites like Scenic City Ramblers,

clevelandapplefestival.org.

Crooked Creek Bluegrass Band, and Raw Art Dance are

On Saturday morning, the Cleveland Apple Festival will

returning this year, along with Element 11, Dustin Curry, and

hold its dessert contest with winners announced and prizes

many others. "I'm excited about this year's entertainment! It's

awarded at 2 p.m. Anyone can bring a dessert, along with the

going to be a great lineup with something for the entire family,”

$10 entry fee, to the courthouse gazebo before 12:30 p.m. on

said Chris Cummings.

Saturday. All kinds of desserts are accepted, but they must have apples in them.

The Little Miss Apple Blossom contest will be held Sunday,

According to Sharon Marr, executive director of Mainstreet Cleveland, “Downtown is the perfect backdrop for the Apple Festival. The crafts and music all add to the nostalgic feel. We

October 18 at 5 p.m. Girls 5-12 years old will compete for the

are happy to host this great event that brings more than 10,000

title with cash prizes in two different age categories. “Just seeing

people downtown that weekend.”

those little girls dressed up in their best country-girl outfits will

“The Apple Festival is a perfect event for the fall when

be worth coming for,” said Contest Coordinator Christa Swartz.

the air is crisp and we think of harvest time,” said Mayor

“The girls who participate have a lot of fun, and we all love to

Tom Rowland. “It is one of our premier downtown events

watch them smiling from the stage.”

that bring folks from all over to share in the crafts and great

The Kids’ Zone, sponsored by Trailhead Bicycle Company,

food. I particularly like fried apple pies and funnel cakes. It’s

offers free bounce houses, petting zoo, contests, and pony rides.

a great opportunity to meet new friends and let them feel the

Trailhead will give away a free bicycle each day of the festival.

hospitality from the ‘City with Spirit.’”

“We’re really excited to help sponsor the Cleveland Apple

8 // October 2015

Cleveland Apple Festival

October 17 & 18 Admission

Hours

$5 • Ages 12 & Older

Saturday, October 17 10am - 6pm

$4 • Seniors & Children FREE • Children Under 3 $20 • Family Pack (2 Adults & Up To 4 Children)

Sunday, October 18 1pm - 6pm

Gò0dNews on Money Matters

Knowing What to Do and Then Doing It

D

Stop swiping the credit cards for convenience and practice what you’ve learned about your personal finances.

by Andrew Lee

ave Ramsey, perhaps the

we know we should be doing. (In that

month before the money ever reaches

best-known among the Chris-

sense, financial planning success is often

your checking account? You knew that

tian financial counselors on

compared to taking care of one’s health

many experts recommend that we save

the airwaves today, has often said that

and maintaining a healthy body weight.

between 10 to 15 percent of our gross

“Personal finance is 20 percent head

We know we should eat the salad and

income every month in an automatic

knowledge and 80 percent behavior.”

veggies instead of ordering that pizza,

payroll deduction going into our 401(k)

Based on my own personal experience,

but it’s another matter to actually do it).

or 403(b) retirement plans. You had

as well as what I’ve observed in oth-

So if we know what we should be

planned to call the payroll office and

ers over the years, I would agree with

doing financially—living on less than

take care of this one day soon but you

Ramsey’s sentiments. These days, it’s

we make, saving regularly, paying off

never actually followed through.

not hard to find financial information,

debt aggressively, making a budget and

investing tips, savings rates, and online

sticking to it—then why don’t many of

instead of credit cards when shopping

budgeting tools and retirement calcula-

us actually follow through by practicing

or dining out would help us to spend

tors just about anywhere we look. If

what we’ve learned? The ancient Greek

less and save more; but we never actu-

that’s not enough, there are television

philosopher Socrates probably said it

ally followed through, and instead kept

channels like MSNBC and Fox Business

best with his simple maxim to “Know

swiping the credit card for convenience.

Channel that bombard us with all things

thyself.” We need to take an intimate

But how convenient is the 18 percent

financial, all the time, 24/7.

and honest look at ourselves, where

interest rate we’re paying on those credit

So for many people, financial litera-

Likewise, we knew that using cash

we fall short in our financial discipline,

cards, not to mention late fees? Not to be

cy, wealth building, and debt reduction

and where we had good intentions but

outdone by Socrates, William Shake-

aren’t usually a matter of not knowing

never followed through. For instance,

speare wrote in Julius Caesar, “The fault,

what to do. Rather, the issue simply

why haven’t you ever increased your au-

dear Brutus, is not in our stars, but in

becomes mustering up the will power

tomatic payroll deduction to contribute

ourselves.” Or to put it another way, in

and determination to actually do what

to your company’s retirement plan every

the words of the old comic strip, Pogo, “We have met the enemy, and he is us.”

Ultimately, all of our financial knowledge is pointless without practical implementation in our daily lives.

This requires discipline. As the wisest financial manual of all time, the Book of Proverbs 25:28 tells us, “A man without self-control is like a city broken into and left without walls” (ESV).

10 // October 2015

Dr. Andrew Lee is professor 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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Gò0dNews for Men

Strength

In moments of greatest stress, strong Christians submit their will as opposed to exerting their will.

T

by Nathan Long

ake a second and answer this: “Describe a man in

definition of “strong” but took some time to read the

three words or less.” What did you come up with?

second and third definition’s synonyms: “secure and

Did you list characteristics or make a sentence?

long-lasting.” These words, for me, bring out an image

What does this show you about how you view males? I

of a different kind of strong—images of male teachers,

recently asked local college students to answer the same

leaders, and mentors in my life who have been a safe

initial question and had over 200 students, both men and

haven and a base for me. So maybe it’s not the word

women, respond. Can you guess what the number one

strong that’s the issue but my assumptions to the word

answer was? The number one answer was strong.

itself! Maybe it’s time to change my paradigm from a

If you’re anything like me, I cringe when I hear this description. Images of chauvinistic, pompous, generally

worldly idea of strong to a Godly one.

Matthew 26:36-46 is the story of Jesus in the Garden

distasteful people who are all but desirable to be like,

of Gethsemane and one of the stories I see where Jesus’

come to mind. One way it was put, when the Disney

strength shown brightest. Jesus was at His rope’s end;

movie-lovers out there hear the word strong, they think

His final mission was about to start, and He knew that

of the “Gastonia” male. Looking at the Oxford dictionary

it wasn’t going to be easy. It’s in the moments of great

synonyms of strong doesn’t help either. With words such

stress where the temptation of “I need to hold it together

as, “powerful, muscular, rugged, lusty . . .” who can help

for the good of others,” the temptation of “If I ask for help

but conjure up images of a boozy Gaston singing about

I’m weak,” and the temptation of “I need to make a plan”

how awesome he is.

become the most enticing. In this story though, we see

Being an optimist, I’d like to think that the majority of the college-aged students weren’t referring to the first

that Jesus did the exact opposite of these temptations.

1. He didn’t hide His emotions (v. 37).

2. He asked for help from God and His friends (v. 38) 3. He submitted to God’s plan (v. 39) The Christian idea of strength is the exact opposite of the world’s. Strong Christians are the ones who submit their will as opposed to exerting their will, no matter how much they want to do otherwise. Jesus could have called angels to save Him from the cross, but He chose the hard way—the higher road and did what was right as opposed to what was easy. That’s what strong is for the Christian: doing what’s right even unto death.

12 // October 2015

Nathan Long graduated from Lee University in 2012 with a bachelor of science degree in pastoral ministries.

He is currently the resident director of New Hughes Hall at Lee University while completing a master’s degree in marriage and family therapy.

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Gò0dNews for Women

Girls with Swords Are Battle-Worthy Opponents To be equipped to fight the spiritual battles, we must be on guard with our sword—the Word of God.

W

by Melissa Noble Snyder

omen need reminding that we are in war—a

The Word tells us to “put on the full armor of God so

battle between good and evil, light and

we can stand against the tactics of the enemy.” We must be

darkness, and for most of us, we struggle

equipped and ready for battle. How do we get equipped?

with the battle in our minds. This battle is called spiritual

We get the necessary training and preparation by:

warfare. The Bible tells us that the Word of God is a sword,

• Spending time in the Word

an essential weapon enabling us to fight these battles.

• Studying the Word

Imagine holding a sword with both hands. Because of this sword, you have influential power. You can fight

• Memorizing the Word Lastly, we must wield the Word as the mighty

offensively and defensively. A mighty woman of God

weapon it is. “For the Word of God is living and active. . .

with the sword can successfully protect, defend, and

. It penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and

attack the Enemy.

Girls with swords are targets for attack. Satan does not want us

marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart” (Heb. 4:12 NIV).

As girls with a sword, we will

to live for God. He wages a battle

have spiritual battles throughout

for our souls because we are battle-

our lives. These battles will give us

worthy opponents. He looks for

opportunities to glorify and serve

ways to get us off track, to get us

our Commander-in-Chief, Jesus

confused, to cause us to doubt, to

Christ. Once the battle is over and we

get us depressed, and to make us

are victorious, we have a testimony

question God and what the Bible

to share. Brag and boast about His

says. The forces of evil are on the

goodness. “Let not the wise boast in

earth searching for opportunities to

his wisdom, let not the mighty boast

catch us off guard.

in his might, let not the rich boast

Being a woman of God is a call

in his riches, but let him who boasts

to arms. We cannot fight spiritual

boast in this, that he understands

warfare using earthly methods, or

and knows me, that I am the Lord

battle in the flesh. If we do, we will

who practices steadfast love, justice,

lose. As soldiers of God, we listen

and righteousness in the earth. For

only to our Commander-in-Chief.

in these things I delight, declares the

When we follow His commands we demonstrate our faithfulness, obedience, trust and our

Lord” (Jer. 9:23-24 NIV).

There is a warrior in every woman of God who

willingness to follow His orders. As women in His army,

carries a sword. When Satan strikes, raise your sword

we never go into battle alone. The Holy Spirit always enters

with confidence and fight back with the truth. When

into battle with us.

you do this, you win every time. With God, women can

Be on Guard

be an impressive combination of princess and warrior.

One tactic of the Enemy is to get us to fight in our own

strength. He knows we are ineffective on our own and on our own, we are easy prey. He also knows a girl with the sword is unstoppable and unbeatable!

14 // October 2015

Carrying a sword is a beautiful thing. Do it like a hero.

In her years of ministry, Melissa Noble Snyder has served in leadership roles in various areas which include counseling, teaching, social services, personal growth education and Christian Life Coaching. As a writer/editor, she has written award-winning articles and has been recognized for her inspirational, faith-based advice column. Her greatest passion is her calling, which is to inspire women to live Christ-centered lives. She can be contacted at godgirlmelissa@gmail.com

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3330 Keith Street • Cleveland, TN 423.458.1571

"My name is Tonya and I am a transition student at Women at the Well. I have been in the program for 15-months. I grew up feeling very inadequate and like I could never measure up to my own expectations or the expectations of others, but since coming to the Well, I have learned who I am in Christ. As a transition student, I get the opportunity to work at New Attitude. This is where I truly found that my past failures, addictions, hurts, and regrets could be used to offer hope to others. I used to believe, that because of my past, God could not use me. Now, I realize, that because of my past, and how God saved me, that people can see how awesome and sovereign God is. New Attitude is not just a resale store, it is an experience where God uses people who were once broken and now restored to share Jesus with others, who may need hope and healing that only He can give."

Tues - Fri 10:30am to 6:30pm Saturday 11am to 5pm

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 132 Bellfounte Rd NE, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 336-2312 Bethel Baptist Tabernacle 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 3040 Blythe Rd. Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-7936 or clevelandcowboychurch.com 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 or www.clinganridgebaptist.com Church At Grace Point 2595 Old Freewill Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 728-5050 or grace-point.com Covenant Baptist Church 249 Calhoun Rd SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 559-2653 Dalton Pike Baptist Church 3055 Benton Pike NE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 472-7606 Elkmont Baptist Church 4030 Old Freewill Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37312

16 // October 2015

(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 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 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 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 Rolling Brook Baptist Church 1675 Greendale Dr NE Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 472-0612 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 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 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 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 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

Agape Place Church of God Pastor John and Melanie Arias 2611 Blue Springs Road SE Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-8691 Cornerstone Church of God Pastor Rick and Lori Sentell 2823 Lee Hwy, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 478-0006 Church of God Sanctified, Inc. 746 First Street N.E. Cleveland, TN. 37311 (423)479-3895 East Cleveland Church of God Pastor John A. Lombard Jr. 900 15th St NE Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 479-3389 Fellowship of Praise Church of God 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 Church of God Pastor Steve Gilbert 4635 S Lee Hwy McDonald, TN 37353 (423) 476-6316 International Worship Center Centro Internacional de Adoraci贸n 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 Church of God Pastor Mitch Maloney 335 11th St NE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-5513 or nccog.org Michigan Avenue Church of God Rev. David B. Boles 515 Minnis Road N.E (423) 584-3663 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 (423) 472-6925 South Cleveland Church of God Pastor Chris Moody 1846 Volunteer Dr SW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-6382 or southcleveland.org Westmore Church of God Pastor Kelvin Page 2412 Wolfe Dr NW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 559-9646 or www.westmorecog.org Zion Assembly Church of God Pastor Kim Erwin 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 140 Wildwood Ave Cleveland, TN 37311 (423)479-6584

Disciples of Christ

First Christian Church 3925 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 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 Riverstone 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

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 Community Hall Church 1305 6th Street Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472 2178 Dwelling Place Church Pastors Jamie and Judy Jacobs Tuttle 523 Urbane Rd. NE Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 790-5200 DPCI.TV Evening Light Gospel Dr. Donald E. Smith, Jr. 200 20th St SE Cleveland, TN 37311 Freedom Fellowship Church 3555 Blue Springs Rd, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 478-0654 God’s Family Fellowship Pastors, Doug & Patsy Bell 197 Neely Circle NE Cleveland, TN 37312 Phone (423) 790-7533 www.godsfamilyfellowship.net Graceway Chapel 221 14th St NW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 728-2226 Living Word Church Pastor Evan Cockerham 930 25th Street, NW Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 339-3028 or thelovingchurch.com Norvel Hayes Ministries 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 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 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 Ladd Springs Seventh-Day 5860 Bates Pike SE Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 476-1889 Bowman Hills Adventist 300 Westview Dr NE Cleveland, TN 37312 East Cleveland Seventh-Day 801 Howard Circle SE Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-9299

issuu.com/goodnewscm // 17

Athens Church Directory

Assembly of God

Abundant Blessing 2613 Cardinal St Athens, TN 37303 423-435-5867

Baptist

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

18 // October 2015

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 Church of God 507 Woodward Ave Athens, TN 37303 423-745-1618

Community

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

Latter-day Saints

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

Nazarene

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

Episcopal

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

Lutheran

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

Methodist

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

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

Non- Denominational

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

Pentecostal

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

Presbyterian

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

Seveth-Day Adventist

Seveth-Day Adventist 230 New Englewood Rd Athens, TN 37303 423-745-2335

Heritage Fellowship Church of God Presents

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Service Times:

Sunday 9am, 11am, & 6pm Monday - Wednesday 10am & 7pm World Harvest Church 320 Hardscrabble Rd Roswell, GA 30075

Gò0dNews for Parents

Parenting in Pain

As parents, we should emulate the perfect model of parenting set by God the Father.

T

by Shibu Joseph

he past two months has been a season of pain and

Remember that as parents, we should emulate the

loss in our small community. Unexpected tragedies

perfect model of parenting set for us by God the Father.

and losses are followed by waves of sorry and grief.

We should draw near to our children and nurture an

Though we know and believe God’s grace is sufficient for

environment of open communication with them. Our words

us, it is sometimes difficult to transfer that source of peace

and actions should clearly express that we are for them—not

to a child who is grieving or dealing with pain. In fact, I

against them.

believe one of the hardest tasks parents face is the inability to remove or lessen a child’s pain.

My natural instinct might compel me to get close to our child, to hold him and become the comforting, protective presence in his life. I could see myself desperately wanting

Jen Slattery, a contributor to Christ to the World Ministries, ACFW Journal, and the Christian Pulse wrote extensively on teenage depression and the parenting that coincides with it. She reminds us to . . .

1. Recognize that anger and irritation might be a sign of

to take the pain from him.

sadness or depression.

Perhaps it’s as easy as a

2. Encourage open

mother’s kiss on a boo-boo

communication and avoid

when it comes to our five

communication barriers.

year old. But what are we

3. Let your teens know you

expected to do when the

are for them, not against

child is older?

them, and that you will help

As a teenager, I

them through this.

remember dealing with

4. Never judge their emotions;

confusing, depressive

instead, validate them.

emotions after painful

5. Separate emotions from

events. I withdrew from

behaviors. Emotions are never

my family only to hide

sinful or wrong. It is what we

under the shadow of the

do with them that creates sin.

most popular, entertaining

6. Get help when needed.

distraction of the day—

Ultimately, remember

comics, video games, sports, girls, and so on. I recall the

that God created your children in His image. So only He

obvious disdain of some of the adults in my parents’ church.

alone truly understands their hearts and knows the answers

They saw my behavior as defiance or rebellion and freely

to their questions. All we can do is pray often and do our

offered their opinion at times. Instead of seeking God’s

best to listen, love, and lead.

solution for my problem, they would interject that I was looking to the world. However, what they didn’t realize was the emotional roller coaster my growing mind was riding.

But my father knew. He knew that I was dealing with new emotions of anger and sadness. And in knowing so, he endeavored to be the parent that communicated the love of Christ despite my circumstance.

20 // October 2015

Shibu M. Joseph is a management consultant, accountant, and entrepreneur with a passion to impact the world in which he gets to live, work, and play. He is married to his best friend Tera (Lynn) and finds great delight in his five-(almost six) year old, Mathew. Shibu and his family are members of the Westmore Church of God. For more information visit www.shibumjoseph.com.

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Gò0dNews for Kids

Teaching Our Children to Be Liberators Children must understand the importance of being free and leading others to freedom.

“W

by J. Adam Lowe

e are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It's not just in some of us; it's in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from

Everyone’s liberations, or freedom, is different. Some have historical and cultural roots in escaping slavery, much as we find in Exodus. Others have broken away from addiction, and many others can declare the freedom from expressed sin. In every scenario, God calls us to use our testimony

others. We have adopted a family to help us train ourselves for the task.

(This adopted code was influence by our dear friends Eric and Phyllis Wilbanks.)

1. LEARN: Know God and His power. Understanding is the author of our story.

2. TRUST: Love God and His plan

our fears, our presence automatically liberates others.”

—Marianne Williamson, Returning to Love.

This quote by Marianne Williamson emphasizes the spirit of liberation. In other words, to be set free is not simply an opportunity to live but to teach others how to live.

Though Ms. Williamson outlines this with elegance, it originates from a Godly command we find in Galatians 5:13: “For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another” (ESV).

of freedom and our ability to work in that freedom to liberate others.

We preach the message of truth but we also bear the fruit of living as conquerors over our captors.

In my family, we teach breaking the bonds of self for a freedom in God. We teach them the stories of God’s liberating power and the history of how many leaders in humanity have embraced it. We also teach them our personal family story of breaking away from generations of poverty through education. For us, it is important that they see the story of how God has placed our family in the position to help others. This understanding is merely the first step in their education to become liberators of

for humanity. Find peace in His affection for us.

3. CARE: Love others as God loves them. Engage your community and culture.

4. WORK: Bear fruit and place your understanding into action.

We know that our children, through this basic code, must understand the importance of being free and subsequently the importance of leading others to freedom. It is the best chance for them to become leaders of change in our community.

It will compel them to be people of faith and action. Our prayer is that as they manifest the words in Gelatins, the cycle of liberation will begin anew with generations to follow.

22 // October 2015

J. Adam Lowe is a former county commissioner and published author. His recent story “Big Heart” can be found in the book, Dad’s Behaving Dadly, by Hogan Hilling. Through WoodmenLife, he helps families plan for the future. His wife Rachel is a school counselor and they have they have four children. Adam attended Lee University for his bachelor’s degree, UTC for his master’s, and UTK for his doctorate in education.

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Gò0dNews for Health & Fitness

Playground Workouts Try these creative workouts with your children at the park.

S

by Lindsey Cooke

chool is back in session, and we all know that means

you tell your kids not to climb up the slide, but you may

shorter time to squeeze in all those things we need to

change your mind with this workout. Place your hands

accomplish. It typically means that our workouts are

on the side of the slide and shuffle up the slide without

the first thing that gets left out of our routine. But what if I told you there was a way to keep those workouts and make your kids happy at the same time?

We all take our kids to the park, so why not utilize that

bending your knees.

• Bench jumps: Similar to box jumps, jump from the ground to the bench with both feet.

• Kid squats: That’s right. Grab your kid and use him or

time to get as tired as your kids? With so many options, I can

her as the weight for your squats! They see you living a

almost promise you that you will not get bored!

healthier life, so why not make them a part of it

Here are some ideas.

• Swings: Bring a towel or mat for this one. Place your

• Monkey bars: Just like when you were a kid, the monkey

feet in the swing, and walk out with your hands. Your

bars are a test of strength. You can go across them, use

shoulders should be shoulder-width apart. Next, draw

them for pull-ups, and you can even use them for some

your legs into your chest and then extend them back to

good abs workouts!

starting position. Still using the swing, lie on your back

• Benches: They aren’t just for sitting anymore! Use them

with your feet in the swing. Lift your hips up and curl

as a base for your push-ups and triceps dips.

your legs toward your chest; extend your back out, and

(Don’t worry, we will come back to the

lie down.

bench!)

These are just a few of the options that a park offers! Don’t

• Slide: Do the

forget that you can add sprints, crunches, Russian twists,

slide shuffle! If

and many more! “The Lord is my strength and my shield;

you’re like me,

my heart trusted in Him, and I am helped” (Ps. 28:7 NIV).

24 // October 2015

Lindsey Cooke is the administrative assistant for Cooke's Food Store & Pharmacy.

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Fresh Organic Juices & Smoothies @ Abundant Living 855 Keith St. Cleveland, TN 37311 614-7885

Gò0dNews for Teens

God’s Grace Is Sufficient

G

Whenever you’re struggling with that “thorn” in your side, be reminded that God’s grace is there.

by Fernando Alejandro

race is something that most people desire to

grace to you and to all. However, when you began to

have and think they deserve. It is one of these

take advantage of that grace and allow your flesh to

concepts that during your teen years you don’t

consume you, and you’re not trying to live a Spirit-

understand or may take advantage of because your

filled life, then how can God offer grace to a lukewarm

parents offer so much of it. But there comes a time when

heart? You have to realize that God wants you to obtain

your parents, friends, or teachers may not offer grace

this gift of grace, but He also wants you to live for Him

to you when you need it the most. The consequences

whole heartily. We all know that mistakes will happen,

of your actions have caught up with you, and the only

and God will forgive you, but you must make an effort

thing you can do now is to accept the punishment that

to live a life that is striving to live for Christ.

is on the way. However, the typical teens tries to have

The concept of grace is something that many of us

the last word as they utter, “Jesus knows how to forgive;

have difficulty in understanding. It’s something that

why can’t you?” That may be true, but Jesus also knows

we don’t deserve, but it’s also freely given to us even

that grace is given to those who are truly sorry for their

though we have a sinful nature. We may have an issue

actions and not trying to take advantage of the system.

in our lives of a “thorn” that is constantly there, even

God’s grace is freely given to all. Regardless of your past circumstances or failures, God offers

after years of praying for it to go away. Paul dealt with this same problem in 2 Corinthians 12:7-10. He had prayed three times for this thorn to be removed from his flesh, but according to Scripture, it never was removed.

But God tells Paul something very interesting in verse 9: “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness” (NIV). In Paul’s weakest moments, when the thorn seems too hard to overcome, he must remember that God’s grace is sufficient and God’s power is perfected in that moment.

Whenever you’re in trouble, having to struggle with that thorn in your side or you’re just tired from the cycles of life, be reminded that God’s grace is there. He will be your power in that time of weakness, and He will protect you. But you must strive not to be controlled by that thorn in your side, but allow God to remind you of His grace while having the thorn in your side.

26 // October 2015

Fernando Alejandro graduated from Lee University with a Youth Ministry B.S. degree. He is originally from Florida and was called into youth ministry at age 15 during a youth camp in 2008. He currently serves as an intern at The Element Student Ministry of Westmore Church of God and is the office administrator for GoodNews.

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WOODEN BELLS

By Nikki DeLong

W

hen sitting down to write this article, I was certain in which direction to go. Having worked here a year, ill-deserved confidence in knowing all I needed to publish "The Great Story of Best Buy Metals.� However, while interviewing longtime employees, friends, and family members, and even the owner himself, Isaac Libbey, I discovered there was no great story to the beginnings of Best Buy Metals, but only a story about a young contractor who happened to start a business. There were struggles getting the business off the ground, but for Isaac, things just came together. The success of his company was not his main focus, but merely a means toward something greater. What was he really building? Therein lies the great story.

Laying the Foundation

At the age of 17, Isaac went to Haiti and

28 // October 2015

stayed with a missionary family for six weeks.

Like anyone exposed to the devastation and poverty of such a place, his heart was changed. A desire for ministry was planted.

In 2002, at the age of 24, Isaac Libbey started Best Buy Metals in a small storefront and an open warehouse. Marrying not long afterwards, he and his wife, Angel, promised to put the Lord first in everything they did. They felt this was the only way to live, and He would make a way for them if everything else came second.

While growing his business, Isaac learned that to have a strong foundation meant building

relationships with the local contractors, with his church family, and most importantly, with God. They started attending a church whose minister, Larry Hamilton, had founded an orphanage in Mirebalais, Haiti. Rekindling Isaac's love for the country, he and Angel began making trips with Pastor Hamilton regularly. With their growing family, business, and mission, they have kept their promise to God. In 2011, Julie Denton, the daughter of Pastor Hamilton, and Isaac accepted the responsibilities of the orphanage in Mirebalais. Isaac had been supporting the orphanage with profits from his company because the people of Haiti had become like family. According to Isaac’s mother, “They always gave him their very best. Even though it was a shack with a dirt floor, they would lay their clothes down on it for him to sleep on. I know that really touched his heart."

In an interview with Pastor Hamilton, I could hear the passion in his voice for that mission field. “I tell people, it's a beautiful country if you look up. Some of the landscapes I’ve seen are amazing, but when you look down at the people and the poverty, it is a different story. Haiti is the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere. If you look at the conditions of the people, you lose sight of the country; and if you look at the beauty of the country, you lose sight of the problem. It’s a terrible thing.”

Building the Passion

Julie expressed how inspired she was by Isaac’s dedication and care for supporting the community and the children in the orphanage. “The way he reaches for those kids. He’s always looking out for the smallest things, always making sure everything is running right.

If the commode is torn up, or a water pipe isn't working, he will personally fix whatever needs replacing, putting together beds and hanging ceiling fans so the kids don't get too hot. It's just all the little things that most people pass over. If he sees a sore on a head, he does what he can. We just love them like our own kids! God put that in our hearts. It's not just an organization; it's not just an orphanage; it’s our family."

Other people’s perspectives of how Isaac used Best Buy Metals and his passion for the orphanage soon made it clear that he had been humble and silent about so much. When asked about what it was like to work with his brother Isaac, Nathan Libbey responded by saying: “As with any job, there have been difficult times. You don’t always see eye to eye on everything. But in those times when we don’t get along, I remember who Isaac is.

He is an awesome Christian, a great brother, and an honest boss. He would rather give you too many chances than too few, which is rare.

He genuinely cares for other people. And he helps orphans! If ever I need to have a good motivation for working here, it is the amazing knowledge that tens of thousands of the dollars we earn goes to helping orphans, widows,

issuu.com/goodnewscm // 29

and hungry people. He loves doing it and does it because it’s the right thing to do, not to be seen or get patted on the back. If that isn’t good motivation, what could be?”

when we are going to get the newest iPhone, and in Haiti they worry if the water they are drinking out of the creek has cholera. We get upset if our cup of coffee isn't made correctly at the local barista, while the widows in Haiti are not sure if they are going to have a meal I was directed to an art piece that hangs in this week. Sometimes we get sidetracked by front of Isaac's office. Isaac had said this was our First-World problems and fail to see the a motto for his life. The piece depicts a strong people dying within our reach. I am pleased oak tree with this quote by Bonnie L. Mohr: to work for a company and a boss who has a “Life is not a race—but indeed a journey. heart for missions and that everything I put Be honest. Work hard. Be choosy. Say ‘thank my hand to at work is benefiting someone you,’ ‘I love you,’ and ‘great job’ to someone in need. There is a phrase in Haiti that they each day. Go to church, take time for prayer. carve on little wooden bells that says, ‘No one The Lord giveth and the Lord taketh. Let your listens to the cry of the poor or the sound of handshake mean more than pen and paper. a wooden bell.’ I am very fortunate to know Love your life and what you've been given, it a man who has heard that cry and has deis not accidental—search for your purpose and nied himself and the pulls of the ‘American do it as best you can. Dreaming does matter.

Dream.’”

It allows you to become that which you aspire With the cries of the poor, God carved purto be. Laugh often. Appreciate the little things pose into Isaac Libbey’s life. God touched his in life and enjoy them. Some of the best things heart with such a great desire to build hope really are free. Do not worry, less wrinkles are into the lives of these orphans. The ringing of more becoming. Forgive, it frees the soul. Take Isaac’s success is but an echo of wooden bells. time for yourself—plan for longevity. Recognize the special people you've been blessed to know. Live for today, enjoy the moment."

The crux of it all was found when Danielle Jordan, an employee and longtime friend, had this to say: “Isaac took me to Haiti in October 2011 and again in March 2012, and I can honestly say it has changed my life. One trip to Haiti is all it takes, and you will begin to see things in a different light. Our wants and If you would like to connect with the desires pale in comparison to a child cheworphanage in Mirebalais, Haiti, visit ing on a rusty nail because he has not eaten www.armsofhopechildren.org. in three days. In America, we worry about

Extending the Dream

30 // October 2015

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Gò0dNews for Couples

The Power of Words

“Gracious words are like honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body” (Proverbs 16:24 NKJV).

by Beth Houle

W

e’ve all heard the statement: “Sticks and

intentionally cause harm to someone with our words.

stones may break my bones but words

So how do we prevent this? I tell my clients to think

will never hurt me.” I think many of us

of themselves as a mirror when they are talking with

wish it were this easy.

or about someone else. When you look in a mirror you

Words hold power. They create meaning from

see a visual image of yourself. When we hear others

situations, label circumstances, provide safety in a

words, we derive meaning from those words and our

relationship, or can destroy a relationship. Words are

mental mirror becomes distorted. What image is the

given their power by the way they are used, and we

person you are speaking to see through your words?

are the only ones who can control what words we

This is easiest to see in a parent/child dynamic. When

choose to use.

a toddler looks up wide-eyed to his screaming parent,

It can be really challenging to be constantly

he begins framing meanings about himself through

aware of our words. Sometimes we wonder if it is

his parent’s words. He begins to believe he’s a failure,

worth it. We get frustrated that we are asked to be

he’s annoying, bothersome, or worthless. He views

sensitive or expected to be politically correct. We are

himself through these words and the words become

drawn to what we perceive as truth about people or

his identity that he may carry for a lifetime.

circumstances and are eager to right what we believe to be wrong.

This is true even with adults. And the closer the relationship you have, the more influence you have

I meet with a lot of hurting people on a weekly

over their identity and self-worth. Research tells us

basis. Many of which who have lifelong scars from

that it takes five positive statements to counteract

someone who has used words carelessly. Almost

every negative statement we speak to an individual.

always, the people who have caused the most

This is true even when our negative statement is done

damage with their words remain unaware of the wounds they caused or are

damage we do when those criticisms and contempt eek out!

Use your words wisely. Speak life into a broken

causing. Most

individual. Speak life into your home. Words can heal,

of us do not

and words can destroy. It’s not easy, but we can better

want to

32 // October 2015

in a productive, caring, and loving way. Imagine the

our homes and our world by being aware of our words.

Beth Houle, MS MFTI is a master’s-level marriage and family therapist in Cleveland, TN. She focuses her work in treating couples, families, and individuals with relational issues or difficulties through her private practice. More information can be found at healingbonds.com.

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Gò0dNews for Seniors Authenticity and Passion—the Keys to Senior Living

I

Older people see life differently, speak life plainly, and take each moment within their stride.

by Esmerelda Lee

have been asked many times, “Why do you enjoy senior living?” Senior living was not my career path or dream, but it has certainly become my passion. I can honestly say that each day is completely rewarding.

Can older adults be negative? Yes, everyone can be negative, but the majority of older adults “tell it like it is,” and I like that.

There is nothing like watching a ninety-three-year-old man learn to walk again after a stroke, or seeing the eyes of a ninety-seven-year-old retired Colonel glide through the dance floor doing his famous twostep, or listening to the soft, sweet voice of a 103-year-old lady reading a book by Rudyard Kipling. I can’t say that they know everything about life, but I can say that they have learned a thing or two, and they know what is important.

Senior living facilities have come a long way from the days when they were referred to as the “Old Age Homes.” I remember the anxious

34 // October 2015

words of a resident family member who said, “I promised Mama I would never put her in an Old Age Home!”

Today, Old Age Homes have evolved into real life luxury hotels. In fact, they are so close to the hotel model that they now have “star” ratings. A recent advertisement in the newspaper read, “Would you stay at a 5-star or a 2-star hotel? So why would you settle for less in nursing homecare?”

My husband and I recently watched a movie sequel called The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel.

While this movie highlights the fact that older people are just people wanting to live their lives with purpose, it also brings to the forefront the present and future of active adult communities. Senior living has become a thriving industry— an industry that will assure job security to healthcare workers. It has also become a lucrative business.

Companies are building senior-living communities across the United States at a rapid rate. Some states like Florida have grown into active senior adult “meccas” and continue to build luxurious, creative, older-adult pods believing that, like the housing market, amenities and aesthetics will sell themselves.

However, I believe that the consumer can never be underestimated.

Amenities and luxury are important, but when

it comes to senior living, the old adage, “The customer is king,” still reigns supreme. Only this time, our customer is wiser. Older adults are actively searching the Internet for reviews, information, and social media opinions of their future homes.

They trust the word of mouth of friends and other people living in the community and place stock in meeting their neighbors before purchasing their homes. Most of all, trust and genuine empathy shown by potential caregivers, ownership and facility leadership are what our customers will expect in their future senior living community.

Since active seniors are living longer, they will desire a place that will not only provide the aesthetics of a home, but they will also expect the community to provide the support system and integral character resembling their idyllic family. People with passion for caring for older adults will become the chief ingredient in any interview, and imposters will never be able to survive the scrutiny of the intuitive senior.

In the movie, The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, the dilapidated hotel finally gets an influx of cash. The man supporting this venture tells the owner/manager/frontline staff: “You make the difference!” People, passion, and authenticity—a recipe for success.

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

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

Dealing with Frustration

by Kelly McDonald

“Then the people of the land tried to discourage the people of Judah. They troubled them in building, and hired counselors against them to frustrate their purpose all the days of Cyrus king of Persia, even until the reign of Darius king of Persia.” —Ezra 4:4-5 KJV

L

ife has frustrations. The dog is

There were delays. This frustrated

important is the phone call or text

barking, the baby is crying, and

the work. These distractions were

message? Many times it can wait

the phone is ringing constantly

an attempt by their enemies to make

until later. The dog will always bark.

them give up.

When we are busy, it is easy to make

with calls and text messages. You are also late for an appointment. To

A frustration is something in

mountains out of mole hills. Focus

make matters worse, your boss has

life that disrupts our daily routine

on the things that must be done right

been pushing you to produce more

or causes us to have feelings of

now. Some things can wait, and some

work. People have been picking on

helplessness. We feel like we are

things are urgent.

you for your faith. Moreover, you

not in control of our own life. From

have personal concerns about your

Satan’s perspective, a frustration is

frustrations that are especially hard

finances, family, and even your

used to make us give up our faith

to handle. First, there are things we

own self-image. We all have these

in God. The Enemy wants us to

don’t understand. You may have

moments. At times you just can’t

surrender our confidence in the

electrical problems, but you know

seem to get a hold of your situation.

Creator God. How did the children

nothing about electrical work.

It seems like things are spiraling out

of Israel handle their frustrations?

Talk to someone who is a reliable

of control.

They overcame their frustrations by

expert in that area. You are putting

going forward. They had delays, but

your frustration into the realm of

to the Promised Land from Babylon,

they finished the work. They did not

their expertise. Secondly, there

they began to rebuild the Temple of

stop pursuing the will of God.

are life events that are beyond our

When the Jewish people returned

God. The Books of Nehemiah and

When you have frustrations,

There are two types of

control, such as how others treat us.

Ezra record these events. As soon as

always remember to keep going.

Some situations do not require our

the work started, the neighboring

While you are a child of God, you

attention and effort; they require that

peoples tried to discourage them.

are still human. You have limitations. Learn to prioritize your frustrations. How

we bring them to God's attention. His efforts will go much farther.

When frustrations arise, ask God for direction. Relax, prioritize, and realize that God is still on the throne.

What your hands cannot handle, His hands will provide.

36 // October 2015

Kelly McDonald, Jr. is an ordained evangelist with Hungry Hearts Ministries. He has written 15 books and booklets on Christian Living. www.hungryheartsministry.com

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

The Joy of Giving

The measuring cup you use for others is the same one that God will use for you.

—Luke 6:38 (My Paraphrase from GNB)

A

by Paulette G Lewis n interesting thing happened at our house

around the room and gathered up all the boxes and

yesterday. Fifteen family members had

disappeared. Soon he returned and asked me to again

gathered for a big meal after church. About

announce that he was ready to hand out gifts. We got

half way through the meal my great grandson came

all excited again and received our re-gifted boxes and

up to me and whispered, “Grandmother, when

began to open them.

everyone finishes eating, can I give them a gift?”

“Of course you can, Carson. But do you mean every one of us or just a few?”

He assured me he meant

This time there was true joy on Carson’s face that didn’t disappear. However, I am sure I was the one with the shocked look on my face. Some boxes had funny gifts in them such as empty

everyone. So I made the

room deodorizers or items from my

announcement and then we waited.

sewing room—things of little or no

About that time out popped

value. But some of the boxes had

Carson from my gift-wrapping closet,

treasures I had collected from other

and one box at a time, he gave each

countries that were very special to

one of us a special gift. The boxes

me. And the last person to get a box,

were all shapes and sizes. Some were

in my opinion, got the scariest gift of

beautiful; some not so beautiful. But

all—my cell phone. Yikes!!

everyone had a gift.

I am thankful to say, as far as I

As we opened our gifts, there

know, no one left the house with one

was much laughter because everyone

of my “treasure” items, but I learned

of the boxes was empty. That didn’t

a valuable lesson from Carson. It’s

matter to us, and we went overboard

not what you give but the spirit in

thanking Carson for our special gifts.

which you give it. That’s why from

Carson was the only person in the room not happy.

now on when I quote Luke 6:38 I will say “The

He had no idea all those boxes were empty. I am sure

measuring cup you use for others is the same one

he was wondering why in the world his grandmother

God will use for you.”

would keep empty boxes in a closet. It never crossed

Thank you, Carson, for teaching your great

his mind to check inside the boxes. All he wanted to

grandmother a lesson in giving. I will treasure this

do was give everyone of us a special gift.

memory forever!

Just as quickly as the joy had turned to sadness, the joy popped right back into Carson’s eyes. He went

38 // October 2015

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

Restoration and Miracles through the Death of a Loved One

by Kelly Hixson

S

ince my dad’s death in October, my mom has also lost her brother and an uncle. As I sat with her in the raw aches of death, we looked through pictures and I heard stories of her childhood. I never pictured we would be together again sitting around the kitchen table. Because of deep pain in my heart, I had chosen to detach from my parents many years ago. It is funny though, when you lose a loved one, you see life through a different perspective, and God seems a little closer than before. Psalm 34:18 says the Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit (NIV).

As I sat beside my dad’s hospital bed, I suddenly forgot about all the pain, anger, and questions. Really all I felt was love. Oh how I wish I had been strong enough to put all things aside earlier and just love— love through our differences, but I wasn’t and chose to stay away. Now it’s too late with my dad. But wait this is where the restoration takes place. Through my dad’s death and other loved ones passing, it is actually starting to bring my family back together again, and I’m choosing to love before it is too late again.

With all this being said, I have the pleasure of taking my mom to see her sister, brother, and my cousin, all of whom we haven’t seen in a really long time. “Dad, I’m not happy that you are gone, but God used your death as a miracle to bring the family together again, and I rejoice at this miracle.”

For a long time I felt like an orphan not knowing who I really was. But now sitting around my mom’s

40 // October 2015

kitchen table as she shares stories with me about my family, I feel small pieces of me being put back together again. Flipping through old pictures and mementos, I came across a quote written on a graduation card of my aunts written in my late grandmother’s handwriting and it read: “God will not look you over for medals, degrees, or diplomas but for scars.” These were the words of Modesta Molly Saiz Campbell, my grandmother!

When I read this quote, I had my mom search for a pen and paper so I could write it down because I thought someone might need to hear it, and I personally may not have many medals or degrees. but what I do have are many scars and for them I am a stronger person. I’m learning important lessons, and I am a fighter.

While I am here on earth, I will choose to love— love through it. I hope by reading this article you too will choose to love before it is too late.

Colossians 3:12-14 says, “Put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony” (ESV).

Kelly Hixson is a teacher at Black Fox Elementary. You can follow her “glimpses” on Facebook or e-mail her at kellyhixson2@gmail.com.

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Gò0dNews for your Taste Buds

A Month of Crock Pot Cooking (Fry that man some taters.)

S

by Angie Parris

everal years ago, I got on a "cook-everything-possiblein-the-crock pot" kick. I cooked soup, stew, meatloaf, baked potatoes . . . most anything I could think of went into the crock pot. I logged onto Facebook to share my knowledge with those I knew. I was pretty proud of this endeavor—twenty-one days of crock-pot cooking. Just throw it all in and let the magic happen.

One Sunday morning, about three weeks into this venture began, Mike Dixon (my favorite teacher of all times) announced to the class while looking straight at me, "Good Lord, woman, fry that man some taters!" This ended my crock pot marathon. Mike taught me a lot besides the fact that sometimes in the South, you just need fried food. He taught me that the best way to prepare for death is by living a full life.

So as the leaves are falling, the weather is changing, and another winter approaches, live your life to its fullest. Take a walk, read a book, hug your family and friends, and maybe fry some taters, but by all means, enjoy some taco soup made in the crock pot.

42 // October 2015

Taco Soup • 2lb ground beef, cooked and drained • 4 cans pinto beans • 2 cans light kidney beans • 1 can whole-kernel corn, drained • 1 can black olives, chopped • 1 can green chilies • 1 medium onion chopped • 1 can Mexican stewed tomatoes • 2 cans Rotel tomatoes • 2 packs of taco seasoning • 2 packs of ranch dressing mix

Mix all the ingredients together (it will be very thick), and cook on low in crock pot for six hours or even overnight.

Serve over regular Frito corn chips with shredded cheese and sour cream.

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

Time for Peace

God’s peace replaces our doubts, anxiety, fears, stress, and anger.

I

by Rhiannon Skeen

n Philippians 4:6, Paul tells the people not to be anxious, not to worry. He doesn't offer this as a suggestion, he states it more in the tone of a command. Be anxious for nothing. As a woman, I have looked at this verse and almost laughed because my mind goes 90-0 throughout the day, and worry happens to be what comes often. I don't want to focus on being anxious, but when you are a mom, wife, babysitter, homemaker, and so on, you get anxious.

I babysit three days a week, and during those days, I am with my little one and a little boy who is a year old. Having two little ones can cause your anxiety level to skyrocket. Will someone trip? Will someone eat something off the floor? Can I get to them before it chokes them? And the worries go on and on. As if that's not enough, then I come home and I am anxious about what I'll cook, when can I do clothes, did I do dishes?

Women worry. We get anxious. We perceive that a lot could happen at any given time, and so we are always on guard. But do we really have to be?

Do we really have to fill up our time with worry? No. Nobody has time to be worried all day and night. It takes our mind of off the important things in life, and we are consumed with fear. Anxiety produces nothing positive. It only causes stress.

In order to avoid stress, I need to be consumed with the promises of God, not the doubts of the devil.

44 // October 2015

Time for Peace

We don't have time to be anxious because we are busy, so the solution is to make time for peace. In Philippians 4:7 Paul goes on to say that if we come to God in thanksgiving, the peace of God will guard our hearts and minds.

When I read this, I immediately think of a wellguarded castle with strong, tall walls surrounding this beautiful structure. I view it as an impenetrable wall.

This is the peace of God. When it is at work in our lives, we have the strongest guard in place against doubt, anxiety, fear, stress, and anger.

Flaming arrows may fly and the Enemy will attack, but with the peace of God in place, we have a cover.

If we let that cover down and begin to be consumed once again with those negative things, our guard is compromised.

The Enemy begins to breach our wall and our inner-being is no longer resting in peace. This is why we have to be intentional about time with God, time with fellow believers, and renewal of our mind. When we can change how we think, we can change how we go through things in our lives.

Declaring God's truth into our situation changes how we view it. Don't give in to the lies of the Enemy. Speak God's truth and walk in His peace.

Rhiannon Skeen is a recent Lee University graduate, a wife, a new mother, and the creator/administrator of www.whatsoeverislovelyliving.com. She and her husband are in full-time ministry with Global Apostolic Revival Network (www.GARN.tv). They are passionate about spreading the love of God and seeing heaven invade earth.

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

The Spiritual Discipline of Listening The most important ministry you do today may be to square your shoulders, make eye contact, and hear the pain of another.

by Julius McCarter

L

istening is one of the easiest things Christians will

hand in hand with the mind-set of Christ that flows from a

ever do and one of the hardest. In a sense, listening

humble heart. It looks not only to its own interests but also

is easy—or hearing is easy. It doesn’t demand the

the interests of others (see Phil. 2:3-5). It is patient and kind

initiative and the energy required in speaking. But engaging in the loving practice that is sacrificing time and attention in

(see 1 Cor. 13:4).

Good listening asks perceptive questions. It is the

the way Jesus sacrificed for those whom He encountered is

fool who “takes no pleasure in understanding, but only

the hard way of the cross.

in exercising his opinions” (Pro. 18:2), and thus “gives an

The charter text for Christian listening might be James 1:19: “Let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak,

answer before he hears” (18:13).

Good listening asks perceptive, open-ended questions

slow to anger.” It’s simple enough in principle and nearly

that probe beneath the surface (see Pro. 20:5). Good

impossible to live. Too often we are slow to hear, quick to

listening watches carefully for nonverbal communication but

speak, and quick to anger.

doesn’t interrogate and pry into details the speaker doesn’t

Learning to listen well requires discipline, effort, and intentionality. Becoming a better listener hangs not on one big resolve to do better in a single conversation but on

want to share. Good listening points the speaker to fresh perspectives through careful, genuine questions.

Good listening is ministry. For Christians, listening

developing a pattern to focus on particular people in specific

is a better service than speaking. God wants more of the

moments. I want to offer a few lessons I have learned about

Christian than just good listening, but not less. There will be

what it means for Christians to listen.

days when the most important ministry we do is square our

Good listening requires patience. Good listening requires concentration, which means we hear the other person out until he or she is done speaking. When we are quick to speak, it takes Spirit-powered patience to not only be quick to hear but to keep on hearing.

Good listening is an act of love. Poor

shoulders to some hurting person, uncross our arms, lean forward, make eye contact, and hear the pain of another.

Good listening prepares us to speak well. As German theologian Dietrich Bonhoeffer once said, “We should listen with the ears of God that we may speak the Word of God.” While the fool “gives an answer before he hears” (Pro. 18:13), the wise person tries to resist defensiveness and listens from a nonjudgmental stance, not formulating opinions or responses until the whole story has been heard.

Good listening reflects our relationship with God.

listening rejects; good

Our inability to listen well to others may be symptomatic of

listening embraces.

a chatty spirit that is drowning out the voice of God. Good

Poor listening diminishes the

listening is not only a channel through which God continues to pour His grace into our lives, but it’s also His way of

other person,

using us as His means of grace in the lives of others. It may

while good

be one of the hardest things we learn to do, but we will find

listening invites

it worth every ounce of effort.

the person to exist and to matter. Good

46 // October 2015

listening goes

The Reverend Julius McCarter, Ph.D., is a minister and spiritual director who lives in Loudon, TN. He is the author of eleven books—most recently a theological commentary on the Book of Revelation.

His ministry, Sunergoi Ministries, maintains a blog at www.the-little-friar.blogspot.com.

423.336.3841 » 8466 Hiwassee St. NE » Charleston, TN

ò0 Mission Statement:

W

e 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.

Christian Magazine

Writer Guidelines: 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.

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 fernando.goodnews@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.

issuu.com/goodnewscm Phone: 423.503.1410

48 // October 2015

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

Love One Another

If you live life in the pursuit of loving God and others, obedience to the remainder of the commandments is simply a natural byproduct.

by John Garrod

W

ritten above the main sanctuary doors in our

Love is kind, even when nobody is looking, even when it’s

church are these words: Love One Another.

not “cool.”

We have a lot of division going on right

It does not envy no matter how hot your neighbor’s new

now in our country, in our world. If you're a sentient being,

car is.

you have at least one opinion regarding a current issue, and

It does not boast no matter how hot your new car is.

regardless of your position, there are at least ten people, if

It is not proud. Love seeks no platform, no podium, no press.

not ten million, who vehemently disagree with you.

Love is not rude no matter what their political party.

You can dwell there, high up on your holy soapbox, and

Love is not self-seeking. Love knows no greed; it is a gift

be right. You can walk away from that argument knowing

you give as it was given to you, not a wage earned.

that you have battered your opponent with truth. But Christ

Love is not easily angered. Those aren’t your “hot spots;”

never commissioned you to beat people over the head until

they are your sins.

they submit, did He?

Love keeps no record of wrongs. Forgiveness is either total

No, He didn’t. In fact, when asked what were the

forgiveness or it’s not forgiveness.

greatest commandments, He didn't direct the scribe to

Love does not delight in evil even when it happens to your

the "Thou shalt nots," but rather to two commandments—

in-laws.

commandments to love. Love God and love your neighbor

Love rejoices with the truth. Yes, even when it exposes

as yourself. That's it. He doesn't go on to rank and organize

your weaknesses.

the rest of the commandments. He gives us two simple

Love always protects without regard to who needs

marching orders, gives us the spurs, and says "Giddyup."

the protection.

It's hard to miss the significance of this command. He

Love always trusts. Ouch! (Gotta quit stepping on my

stressed love so much because if you live life in the pursuit

own toes!)

of loving God and others, obedience to the remainder of the

Love always hopes. Our hope extends to the eternal realm;

commandments is simply a natural byproduct. If you love

so should our love.

others, you want to please them, not anger them. You want

Love always perseveres because its source is not human,

them to be proud of you, not ashamed to identify you as a

but Godly.

friend.

So what does love look like? Here’s how 1 Corinthians 13: 4-7 describes it:

And if you love God, you will love His children. You'll do it when it's easy, and you'll do it when not a fiber of your flesh wants to. When it’s hard, you can do it! Because love

Love is patient. Yes, that applies to my kids, and my roadrage issues.

50 // October 2015

never fails!

John Garrod is a father of six, husband of one, Army veteran, and a resident of Tennessee for the past four years. He is a member at South Cleveland Church of God.

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Gò0dNews for Service

You Can’t Sleep Your Life Away Join me in celebrating the Creator’s gift of morning!

by William Lamb

I

love mornings. There's something about being awake

Redeem the time. Time is constant. You can count on it.

before the sunrise where you can see beautiful skylines

Each 24 hours the Creator opens a brand new day for you

crafted by our Creator. Such visuals can reflect the

to use as you wish. If you don’t feel fulfilled or that you

writings of David in the Book of Psalm: "The whole earth

can complete the tasks at hand; wake up early and give this

is filled with awe at your wonders; where morning dawns,

morning stuff a try.

where evening fades, you call forth songs of joy" (65:8 NIV).

My exposure to early mornings began by hearing my

Achieve more. I don't believe that being busy for the sake of busyness is wise. I understand how long to-do lists turn into unrealistic expectations, which result in packed

dad pray loudly when I was a child. Then, at 14 years old, I

schedules. I also know the feeling of never being finished.

had my first paper route, and we all know how much those

This alone is one reason worthy of rising early to redeem

reader types want their Sunday paper delivered before the

the time. I call it “magic” hours. Find those times of the day

sun illuminates the darkness. When I joined the United

that are less crowded and not yet tainted by clutter so you

States Marine Corps, waking up early in the morning

can set your day in order—but always start by focusing on

was no longer an option but a mandate. These morning

the Almighty (that’s the word my friend Dusty uses when

exposures stuck, and, on most days, I am up before the

he talks about God).

sunrise.

Those who know me and those who hear me can attest

Establish a routine. Strategist suggests that it takes twenty-one days to establish a habit and I add—a day to

that in the early morning hours, I often enthusiastically

break it. Each of us has areas of our lives that are the result

announce. "Wake up world; you can't sleep your life away."

of learned behavior. Maybe you already have the routine

Ken, one of my church camp friends always responded,

of early mornings. If so, teach the principle to others. But

"That's because you won't let us sleep." I think Ken and

maybe you don’t know the advantage of waking before the

hundreds of others over the years are beginning to catch

sun peeks through the night. If that’s you, then take my

this gift of rising early in the morning.

challenge and start tomorrow. Some day you will be glad

Again, we see that David understood the benefit of early morning encounters with Jehovah. David wrote:

you did.

When writing this article I realized that not every

"From the rising of the sun to the place where it sets, the

person holds my same opinion regarding mornings. In fact,

name of the Lord is to be praised" (113:3 NLT).

I have friends who disagree completely. That’s okay. I will

I realize that some people can't do mornings. Perhaps it's their work schedule; for others it's health concerns, and some just can’t get up early. Usually it seems to be a matter of choice. My hope is that you will understand these three points and enjoy some mornings with you and God.

52 // October 2015

keep posting pictures of the sunrise so they can vicariously celebrate the Creator’s gift of morning.

Dr. William Lamb is a member of the administrative staff at Lee University (Cleveland, Tennessee) where he leads a diverse and global “service-learning” program for college students. He is a veteran of the United States Marine Corps. William and his wife Angela, along with their children Tyler and Megan, Nick, and Ben, reside in Cleveland, TN.

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

Friendship

Loneliness is an epidemic in modern society.

Y

by Craig Gray ou really can’t have too many friends . . . right?

communities of millions of people. We work for massive

I mean, when we think about friends, we think

corporations and are schooled in institutions with

that being surrounded by people means never

thousands or maybe tens of thousands of other humans

having to be alone or feeling abandoned or isolated. We

searching for significance and connectedness. So why

stockpile friends on Facebook, collect followers on Twitter

can we only keep up with 150? The answer is simple: It

and Instagram. We scour the Internet, barely peering up

takes effort and direct contact to maintain the quality of a

from our digital lifeline to notice the world around us. We

relationship. We try to maintain superficial contact with

hunger for the latest update or picture and do not hesitate

our 1,500 Facebook friends, which ultimately reinforces

to weigh into controversy. Essentially, we “talk” digitally

our loneliness, and our energy is dispersed across too

all day long, and yet, according to research published in

wide a group, which spirals off into nothing.

the Journal of Advanced Nursing, loneliness is an epidemic in modern society.

How many of us have had this experience? You

The answer to relational happiness is in concentric circles of family and friends where we remain in direct contact: we stop liking a photo and send a heartfelt

are walking along or visiting the gym and you catch

message; we stop texting and make a phone call; we stop

someone’s eye; you think you know them but are

saying someday and go visit; we put away our social

not entirely sure. Then it hits you; you are friends on

media and have a real conversation over lunch or dinner,

Facebook. You know them, maybe know who their kids

and we take the time to truly invest, not with only a word,

are or when they broke up with their boyfriend; yet,

but a gift that says, “I know you!”

you would feel totally awkward speaking to them or

The deeper we go in our connected circle, the more

interacting with them in the non-digital world. You realize

effort we put into those relationships, and consequently,

you are not really friends at all, and again, that crushing

the depth of richness and meaning is added to our

loneliness becomes more apparent.

lives. Of course, at the center of these concentric circles

Robin Dunbar was an anthropologist who first

is the one true friend—God puts more effort into His

presented the idea that humans can really only keep up

relationship with us than we can imagine and longs

with about 150 other humans in a significant way. She

for us to find him there. James 2:23 highlights one who

observed that primates, for example, will group only

discovered this energizing truth, “Abraham believed God .

as large as they are able to stay connected socially to

. . and was called God’s friend.”

other members of the group. But humans live in huge

54 // October 2015

Craig Gray lives with his wife Susie and their six kids in Cleveland, TN. He is the CIO of the University of Montevallo.

Dear Mom and Dad,

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