Gò0dNews
April 2016
Complimentary
Christian Magazine
Dalton
• Justification Through Christ p. 6 • The Prayer of Jabez p. 12 • Technology and God p. 38
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Writers
Aaron M. Shaner Alice Marie Abbott Andrew Lee Brenda Dedmon Charles G. Laws Chris Isbill Deana Thompson Esmerelda Lee Fernando Alejandro Karli Land Kelly McDonald Jr. Melinda Nicodemus Nicole Wiley Samuel Burger Thomas Morrison
About Us Hello Friends, We want to take a moment to tell you who we are and what we are about. Our names are Matt and Bethany Ruckman and we have four beautiful children, Brendon, Kailey, Andrew, and Leah Jean. We live in Cleveland and love what this town has to offer! We have started GoodNews Christian Magazine because we feel that when God, family, and community are combined, lives will be changed. GoodNews Christian Magazine is a complimentary, Christian lifestyle publication. You can find us throughout the community in retail establishments, churches, restaurants, and more. Our magazine opens the door for Christians to work together to grow and strengthen our community through relevant editorial and effective advertising. GoodNews Christian Magazine is written by men and women in the community who love and serve the Lord. Our hearts are open and willing to be used by God to reach out to the community to spread the GoodNews!
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Business Index Amazing Family Expo…………........………7
Hallmark Insurance……………...…………33
Arc Studios……………………........………37
Hamilton Medical Center…….....…………27
B&B Tractor……………………..........…….40
Kirk’s Cycle………………………….………23
Belhaven University………………........….29
Lee University………………………..………2
Bobbie’s Unique Florist……………………25
Modern Woodman………………..….7,17,35
Bradley Wellness…………….…………….13
Morning Side of Dalton…………....………29
Dance Theatre of Dalton……………………7
North Georgia Toyota…………....………….3
Fairy Tales……………………………….….29
Peak Fitness………………………….....….13
First Bank of Dalton………………….…….17
Precious Possessions……………….....….13
First Baptist Daycare……………...….……35
Retro Bowl…………………………….....…13
First United Methodist……………….…….15
Robinson Salvage…………………........…11
Georgia Beauty Academy……….....……..15
Walnut Farms……………………..........….39
Habitat for Humanity……………….………25 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.
April 2016 Pg 4 Pg 6 Pg 8 Pg 10 Pg 12 Pg 14 Pg 16 Pg 22 Pg 24
Pg 26 Pg 28 Pg 30 Pg 32
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About Us GoodNews from the Pastor’s Desk Justification Through Christ by Samuel Burger GoodNews for Kids Beans in a Baggie Earth Project by Kristy Adams GoodNews on Money Matters Looking and Planning Long Term by Andrew Lee GoodNews for Men The Prayer of Jabez by Charles G. Laws GoodNews for Women The Value of Society by Karli Land GoodNews for your Taste Buds Farming for a New Beginning - Lasagna by Deana Thompson GoodNews for Parents Teaching Spiritual Values to Children in Everyday Life by Brenda Dedmon GoodNews for Health & Fitness New Year’s Resolutions: Why it is Just as Easy to Succeed as Fail by Thomas Morrison GoodNews for Teens Submit to Who? by Fernando Alejandro GoodNews for Seniors Challenge = Change by Esmerelda Lee GoodNews for Daily Living Christians in the Workforce by Alice Marie Abbott GoodNews for Couples Love Is in the Air: Thoughts on Preparing for Marriage This Spring by Aaron M. Shaner GoodNews for Everyone It’s Raining Blessings by Nicole Wiley GoodNews for Everyone Lift Up Your Eyes by Kelly McDonald Jr. GoodNews from the Tech Shop Technology and God by Chris Isbill
Gò0dNews Christian Magazine
Pg 20-21
Pg 18-19
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.
Gò0dNews from the Pastor’s Desk
Justification Through Christ by Samuel Burger
Romans 5:1-5: A Blessed Reality! “Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, 2 through whom also we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. 3 And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; 4 and perseverance, character; and character, hope. 5 Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.”
P
aul writes of the progress of the Christian life and how the Holy Spirit is the agent for living it out. 1. Saving Faith V1: The word “justified” means to be “pronounced or treated as righteousness.” Justification is not the act of man but the act of God in forgiveness of all sins and the credit of Jesus’ righteousness. The very foundation of a believer is that God became our Justifier by sending His Son to redeem us and He remained just by punishing sin through His Son (Romans 2:25-26) Therefore, mercy and justice were simultaneous at the cross. It is “Just as if you have never sinned.” As He is so are we in this world (1 John 4:17). See, you didn’t do anything to be a sinner. You are born into sin. Therefore, you must rely upon the justifying work of the Savior to be saved. You are just and righteous by faith alone. 2. Growing Faith V1: We must understand that it’s not faith itself that saves but the object of our faith. We should not be vying for faith but receiving the Lord Jesus Christ. It’s interesting of Paul to write “Lord Jesus Christ.” • Lord means “someone or something having power, authority, or influence.” • Jesus means “Savior.” • Christ means “The Anointed One.”
6 // April 2016
So this faith does not stop at justification but allows the process of sanctification, or holy living, to be actuated. You cannot separate positional justification from progressive or experiential sanctification. They are linked. Just as a baby naturally grows, so is the growth of the born-again believer. Your constant access to God is the key to your growth. 3. Accessing Faith V2: Are you standing in the truth revealed which are mentioned in points one and two? Your access is wholly dependent upon the Lord Jesus Christ. 4. Enduring Faith V3, 4: Friends, God will never justify you without preserving you. This is why you can rejoice in troubles. If you are experiencing troubles just remember the results: • Perseverance (The grace to endure as Christ) • Character (The grace to behave as Christ) • Hope (The grace to envision as Christ) The three virtues of genuine faith are the victories already achieved by Christ for us and will eventually be demonstrated in us. Endurance is to those who truly understand justification. 5. Satisfying Faith V5: Finally, we see that the foundation of justification leads to satisfaction. The love of God has been applied to our hearts by the work of the Holy Spirit and not by human efforts. From justification to eternal satisfaction, God glorifies Himself as the Justifier, Sanctifier and Redeemer. What a blessed reality of justification by faith!
Samuel Burger is Pastor of Chestuee Worship Center. Athens Rd Calhoun, TN 37309
April 23rd & 24th • Camp Jordan Arena The Amazing Family Expo and Fair will bring together 200+ businesses, products, and services to build healthier, happier, stronger and more prosperous amazing families in the Chattanooga area. You and your children will enjoy games, rides, prizes, and a variety of live local music. More information at amazingfamilyexpo.com
Come join the Summer Fun!
Dance Theatre of Dalton www.dancetheatreofdalton.com
Call (706) 529-5664 for classes/camps schedule
Summer Camps 2016 Princess Adventure Camps (ages 3-5)
Adventure Art Camps (ages 3 and up)
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Gò0dNews for Kids
Beans in a Baggie Earth Project by Kristy Adams Reduce, reuse, recycle Earth Day is April 22nd, and this is a great time to remind your children about the importance of reducing, reusing, and recycling. It is also the perfect time to get outside and have fun exploring this beautiful world that we live in. We are jumping all in with a fabulous gardening and recycling project, and giving it an Earth Day twist. Get ready to get messy, and have some fun! Beans in a Baggie Earth Day Project: The one Earth Day project that my kids look forward to each year is sprouting lima bean seeds in sandwich bags. This hands-on activity allows the students to grow their very own tiny plant, and watch as it sprouts and grows! Before we begin the project, I introduce the activity by reading one of my very favorite books, The Tiny Seed, By Eric Carle. This story beautifully presents the life cycle of a flower from a tiny seed to maturity. After reading the story, we then plant our very own baggie plants. This activity takes very few supplies, and yet the rewards of watching the lima bean grow into a beautiful plant is so rewarding. Kids love to witness the fruits of their labor, and this project allows them to reap the benefits quickly. Supplies: 1 plastic sandwich size baggie per child 1 paper towel 3 lima bean seeds
To begin, soak your lima bean seeds in water over night. This will soften the shell and speed up the growing process for your eager learners. Once the beans are ready, each child will place a folded, damp paper towel into their individual baggies. The paper towels need to be watered down before they are folded and placed in the bags. Next, have the children place at least three lima beans in their baggies. Having three ensures that even if you have a seed that is a “dud”, others will most likely sprout. I have only had a few seeds not sprout. Very unlikely, but you do want to be prepared. I recommend stapling the bottom fourth of the baggie to give the seeds a place to lie without sitting in the extra water that collects at the bottom. Finally, leaving the bag open for air to pass through, tape the baggie to a window that will allow for optimal sunlight. Keep a spray bottle filled with water close by so that the students can dampen their paper towels as needed. Within a week, you will have beautiful sprouts pouring out of each baggie. Beans in a Baggie Activity Extensions: Home school parents and teachers can really put a twist on this project with some amazing academic extensions. For example, have each child keep a day by day journal of their seeds progress. Each journal entry should contain their plant observation write up for the day, along with an illustration. Another added extension is to upcycle old coffee or veggie cans into planters for their growing seeds. Students can design their cans based on an Earth Day theme, and then plant their lima bean plants in their brand new Earth Day homes! Happy Growing!
8 // April 2016
Kristy Adams Centers for Creative Learning Owner Educational Therapist Dyslexia Specialist
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Gò0dNews on Money Matters
Looking and Planning Long Term by Andrew Lee
Recently, I finished reading one of the most highly respected and recommended books on investing, The Intelligent Investor by Benjamin Graham. If you don’t know Graham’s name, he was the teacher and mentor of Warren Buffett who is widely considered the greatest investor the world has ever known (certainly the greatest investor who is currently living). This book has gone through many editions over many decades, and it contains much wisdom about being disciplined about savings goals and about selecting quality investments based on solid research and not on the latest fad or trend or “hot stock.” One of the many memorable anecdotes in the book concerns a tale called “Cisco or Sysco.” Back in the late 1990’s, one of the hottest stocks on the planet was Cisco Systems, a company that made router equipment for connecting to the emerging Internet. The stock went straight “up” month after month, as millions of investors piled on, with many people believing the stock could go nowhere but higher. After all, the internet was here to stay, right? But Cisco Systems was borrowing heavily during this period of “growth,” and it all came crashing down with when the tech-stock “bubble” burst in 2000-2001. By October 2002, Cisco stock had lost 90% of its value from its highest price in 2000. Meanwhile, the other Sysco was plodding slowly along. Many of us are used to seeing the big white trucks with the blue letters on the side (“Sysco”), bringing prepackaged food to countless schools, restaurants, and hospitals all over the country. Their food sales climbed slowly but steadily all during the tech-stock bubble, and kept up its steady gains long after the tech bubble burst and the internet stocks all came crashing down. The moral to this story is the same as that of the fable about the Tortoise and the Hare—namely, slow and steady beats fast and furious. The intelligent investor should avoid the flashy, trendy stock that happens to be “hot” this year, focusing instead on quality
10 // April 2016
companies that will produce superior longterm results over many years. As a parallel, I’d like to relate a true story about an anonymous couple I knew from years ago. I knew this couple was experiencing some financial stress, and I tried to counsel them to make a written budget so they would know where their money was going. I also advised them to pay down debt aggressively and to curtail their discretionary spending. “Slow and steady wins the race,” I told them. But they felt they knew better. Rather than try to implement a disciplined plan for money management, they instead decided that the answer to their financial problems was simply to earn more money. So they both took second jobs by starting business ventures which soon became very profitable. Within two years, they had doubled and then tripled their previous joint income. But the more they earned, the more they spent, collecting all of the usual “adult toys”: vehicles, jewelry, vacation homes, etc. And then suddenly by year three of their economic “rise,” they went bankrupt and got a divorce. Their plan didn’t end happily ever after, when all was said and done. In the short term, their plan to “out-earn” their financial troubles seemed to be working like a charm. But before long, their poor decisions in personal money management caused them to spiral downward. The lesson is this—think, plan, and act with the long-term results in mind, not the short term. Anybody can be lucky for a little while, and even bad choices may take time before they catch up to us. As the old saying goes, “even a stopped clock is right twice a day.”
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
The Prayer of Jabez
G
by Charles G. Laws
od is not limited and he will answer our requests like he did for Jabez. This article is based on the book “The Prayer of Jabez” by Bruce Wilkinson (2000). 9 Jabez was more honorable than his brothers. His mother had named him Jabez, saying, “I gave birth to him in pain.” 10 And Jabez called to the Lord God of Israel, saying, “Oh, that you would bless me indeed and enlarge my territory! and that thine hand might be with me, and that thou would keep me from evil, that it may not grieve me! And God granted him that which he requested. For better understanding of the prayer, Verse 10 can be separated into four parts: Oh, that you would bless me indeed and enlarge my territory! and that thine hand might be with me, and that thou would keep me from evil, that it may not grieve me! In verse 9 we see that Jabez was born in pain. In fact the name Jabez means pain in the Hebrew. In the Old Testament names had meaning. Child birth is naturally painful, therefore in this passage the pain mentioned was more than just the ordinary pain of child birth. It could have been unusual pain brought on at birth or some other circumstance in Jabez’s life. The scriptures are silent here, thus we can only surmise what the pain was. We can say that Jabez was born under circumstances that were unusually painful, both to Jabez himself and his mother. Let us take our text and look at it from a modern day perspective. Jabez could have had a missing father at a young age, his father and possibly mother also could be alcoholics or on drugs, he could be born into poverty, he was not given sufficient love as a child or he could have even suffered abuse. Here the list of possibilities could be extended to cover the society in which we live. Jabez had heard of the God Jehovah and His care for his people and the mighty things He had done. The key factor was that he called on God to bless him. No matter our circumstances in life when we were born or later in life, God is not limited and will answer our requests just like he did for Jabez. In verse 10 Jabez begins his prayer by asking God to bless him. The word “indeed” finishes the request. This blessing was not the acquisition of land or material possessions totally. His prayer asking God to enlarge his territory goes much further than that. Observe that he was born in pain, but that he was more honorable than his brothers. Obviously something happened after his pain and God did bless
12 // April 2016
him and he became a very honorable man! The word “bless” and the word “blessed” are found in the OT and NT many times, and are closely related. If God blesses someone, then they are “blessed”. Here the word means to hold someone in favor. So Jabez is asking God to hold him in His favor. Next Jabez asked God to enlarge his territory. Here this may very well include land, but it means much more than that. Here Jabez is requesting God to enable him to give him opportunities to do more in his service to God. He realized that he could not do them in his own strength! Then Jabez asked God to keep him in his hand. David said in Psalms 16:8 “Because He is at my right hand.” Jabez is mentioned only in the passage above, whereas David is mentioned much more since he was chosen to be the king of Israel. Jabez was a minor character where David was a major character, but both of them were blessed by God and held in his right hand! Very likely more could be written about Jabez, but the purpose of his mention is to give the genealogy of God’s chosen people from Adam through David. Finally, Jabez asks God to keep him from evil that it might not grieve him. Here he realized that evil causes grief. David committed evil and was very grieved over it. He asked God to forgive him and He did, but still David went through much grief as a result of his sin (evil). Evil not only grieves the person who commits it; but their family, their friends and others. Jabez went a step further, he asked God to keep him from evil that he would not suffer grief. The passage ends with the statement “And God granted him that which he requested.” Some questions for discussion: 1. In verse 10, what is the meaning of the word indeed? 2. What are some names in the OT that have a meaning? 3. What are some possible meanings of the word pain in today’s society? In Jabez’s society? 4. What are some possible ways that God could enlarge a person’s territory today? 5. Verse 10 ends with “And God granted him that which he requested.” What are some NT Passages that agree with this statement? Charles Laws is a member of Cleveland First Church of the Nazarene. He has a B.A. degree in Mathematics and minors in Physics and Education from Austin Peay State University in Clarksville, TN and a M.A. degree in mathematics from The University of Tennessee (UTK). He enjoys reading, chess, walking and listening to music.
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Gò0dNews for Women
The Value of Society S
by Karli Land
ociety isn’t going to change. Our hearts have to change. John 10:10 says “The enemy does not come except to steal, to kill, and to destroy.” What better way to attack a woman than to attack her self-worth. I used to love getting magazines in the mail. I knew that once a month, Teen Bop was coming with a handsome boy on the front and a quiz inside that would tell me which New Kid on the Block member I was going to marry based on my responses to five questions. I may not have had much else to do that month but magazine day was blocked out on my calendar. I’d spend the entire day reading celebrity gossip and interviews, learning about the newest fashion no-no’s, and reading all about which acne products would work overnight. I now have daughters at the magazine-reading age and it’s terrifying. Magazines for teens are not what they used to be. The covers are filled with young girls with perfect skin and very little clothing. Quizzes now tell us if we are flirty enough to keep our man. Ads for diet pills litter the pages while articles explain why it is okay to hit on your best friend’s boyfriend and teach the ins and outs of sexting. Our children are growing up in a very different world. Society is full of lies that can defeat a girl using only the front cover of a magazine. Society tells us we must be young. Society tells us appearance is everything. Society tells us that we must attain an ‘unattainable’ body shape. Society tells us that social status matters. Society tells us that smarter is better. Society tells us that we only need worldly wisdom. Society fills us with the idea that we have to be good enough to accomplish anything.
14 // April 2016
I don’t know about you, but this shakes my faith. God tells me to do something but my mind tells me I haven’t got what it takes. If you spend too much time in the magazine aisle you will leave feeling defeated. Imagine being a teenage girl living in today’s ego-eccentric world of perfectly shaped models with flawless skin and hair which falls perfectly in place each and every morning. We all know that those ladies don’t wake up that way, but it still tears into our subconscious that we don’t measure up. We start to look at the emphasis that is placed on the ‘perfect’ woman and we know that we aren’t her. We must fight those thoughts of worthlessness. When the enemy says that beauty makes us worthy, remind him that Proverbs 31:30 says “Charm is deceitful, and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.” When the enemy says that you fall short of perfection, remind him that Psalm 139:14 says, “I praise You because I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it well.” And when the enemy tells you that you are nothing but a sinner, remind him that Romans 5:8 says “But God demonstrated His love for us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Society isn’t going to change. Our hearts have to change. We have to realize that beauty is not determined by our weight, our height, our social status, future achievements, or past failures. We are beautiful because of the image of Christ that is in us. Since childhood, Karli Land has been fascinated with all things literary. This happily married mother of four spends her days working as a recruiter for Mohawk Industries while devoting her free time to studying God’s Word. She writes devotions for women and middle grade Christian fiction. She speaks to ladies groups from all walks of life, is the author of “Baby, Don’t Cry” and founded the Calhoun Area Writers.
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Gò0dNews for Taste Buds
Farming for a New Beginning
A
by Deana Thompson
round our farm, April is an exciting time of the year. The weather is turning warmer, which means the children are bursting out of the house like a butterfly out of its cocoon. Hundreds—if not thousands—of daffodils are blooming all around the property, their bright yellow heads nodding in the sunlight. I have a birthday—but that is not quite as exciting as when I was a child. But most exciting of all is the birth of our French Alpine baby goats. Most of the females will give birth to twins or triplets, although one year a doe decided to try quadruplets! Needless to say, there ends up being many little baby goats skipping about, climbing on buckets and on each other, and nibbling on fingers and anything else that gets close enough. In so many ways, April is an exciting time of new beginnings. For the Jews, April is also a time of new beginnings: the beginning of their new year. God told Moses in Exodus 12 that this month, the month that God was releasing Israel from their Egyptian captors, was to be the first month of their year. In that month, they were to remember how God passed over them, sparing their lives, and led them out of bondage toward their promised land. It was a new beginning not only for them as a nation, but also for each person as they learned what it meant to be free after being slaves all their lives. As you enjoy the warm breezes, baby birds, and colorful flowers this April, also remember that it is a time of freedom. God can set you free from the bondage that has enslaved you all your life. This can begin a new spiritual year for you as you turn everything over to God and allow Him to lead you out of bondage. Then you can romp and see and even eat lasagna with a new and freer outlook on life!
16 // April 2016
Sauce
½ lb. ground beef 1 c. chopped onion 1 clove of garlic, minced 2 15-oz. cans diced tomatoes, undrained 2 6-oz. cans tomato paste 1 tsp. salt Dash of pepper 2 Tbsp. snipped parsley, or 1 Tbsp. dried parsley 1½ Tbsp. fresh basil, minced; or 2 tsp. dried basil 1½ Tbsp. fresh oregano, minced; or 2 tsp. dried oregano
Layers
2 eggs 2 c. ricotta cheese (15 oz. carton) ½ c. grated Parmesan cheese, and extra for topping ½ c. grated Romano cheese ¼ c. snipped parsley, or 2 Tbsp. dried parsley 8 oz. lasagna noodles 1 lb. mozzarella cheese, shredded 1. In a saucepan, brown the ground beef with the onion and garlic, stirring until crumbly; drain. Add the remaining sauce ingredients, mixing well. Cover and simmer for 30 minutes. 2. In a small bowl, whisk the eggs. Add the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, Romano cheese, and the ¼ c. parsley; stir well. Chill for 30 minutes. 3. Cook the lasagna noodles according to package directions. Drain the pasta and rinse in cool water. 4. To make the layers: Spread 1/3 of the sauce in the bottom of a 9x13” baking pan. Lay out 3 noodles on top of the sauce. Spread 1/3 of the ricotta cheese mixture atop the noodles, and sprinkle with 1/3 of the mozzarella cheese. Repeat this layering 2 more times. Sprinkle ¼ c. Parmesan cheese on top. 5. Bake at 350°F for 30-40 minutes or until bubbly. Let stand for 10-15 minutes before serving. Whenever you are making food, fresh is always better. Fresh herbs are a simple way to make foods tastier, and they are easy to grow. With spring in the air, now would be a great time to visit your local nursery and pick up several pots of different herbs. You can set them in a window near your kitchen, and by the end of April, you can plant them in the ground or in large deck pots to have an endless supply of herbs throughout the summer.
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Dalton Church Directory Apostolic
The Bridge, An Apostolic Church 715 College Dr, 30720 706-280-0541
Assembly of God
Calvary Assembly of God 515 Reed Rd NW, 30720 706-259-0045 First Assembly of God 508 Sheridan Ave Dalton, GA 30721 706-226-7743
Baptist
Antioch Baptist Church 1205 Antioch Road, 30720 Hopewell Baptist Church 3527 Airport Rd, 30721 706-226-5987 Eleventh Avenue Baptist Church 2550 South Dalton Bypass, 30722 706-278-7020 Good Hope Baptist Church 2521 Lake Francis Rd, 30721 706-259-3719 Grove Level Baptist Church 2802 Cleveland Highway, 30721 706-259-8519 Kinsey Drive Baptist Church 2626 Kinsey Dr, 30720 706-277-3505 Whitfield Baptist Church 2134 Dug Gap Rd, 30721 706-278-6776 Harmony Baptist Church 187 Lower Dawnville Rd, 30721 706-226-5521 Eastbrook Baptist Church 204 Hill Rd, 30720 Maple Grove Baptist Church 347 Maple Grove Rd, 30720 706-259-3927 Northwest Georgia Baptist Church 222 North Pentz St, 30720 706-463-3490 Olivia Baptist Church 1817 Guy St, 30720 706-278-3507 Abundant Life Baptist Church 811 J and J, 30721 706-278-5289 Beaverdale Baptist Church 2496 Beaverdale Rd NW, 30721 706-259-7089 Calvary Baptist Church 2115 Chatsworth Rd, 30721 706-278-6324 Carolyn Baptist Church 2305 Cleveland Highway, 30721 706-259-8142 Cove Baptist Fellowship Church 461 Carbondale Rd SW, 30721 706-277-3484 Dalton Second Baptist Church 502 West Tyler St, 30720 706-278-7422 Deep Spring Baptist Church 1449 Beaverdale Rd NE, 30721
18 // April 2016
706-259-3255 Eastside Baptist Church 913 East Morris St, 30721 706-278-8553 First Baptist Church 802 Kenner St, 30721 706-226-9681 First Baptist Church of Dalton 311 North Thronton Ave, 30720 706-278-2911 Good Samaritan Baptist Church 3137 Cleveland Rd, 30721 706-259-7239 Gospelway Baptist Church 336 Jupiter Cir, 30721 706-278-1424 Harvest Baptist Church 3986 Cleveland Hwy, 30721 706-694-8951 Lakeshore Park Baptist Church 12 Crescent St, 30720 706-275-6050 Liberty Baptist Church 506 South Pentz St, 30720 706-226-5535 Liberty Baptist Church 4443 Tibbs Bridge Rd, 37021 706-226-4936 Macedonia Baptist Church 1355 Dawnville Rd NE, 30721 706-259-9220 Maple Grove Baptist Church 347 Maple Grove Rd, 30721 706-483-6300 McFarland Hill Baptist Church 307 Brickyard Rd, 30721 706-277-5521 Mount Rachel Baptist Church 332 Haig Mill Lake Rd, 30720 706-278-5192 Mount Ridge Baptist Church 1401 M L King, Jr. Blvd, 30721 706-278-0335 New Hope Baptist Church 900 Roan St, 30721 706-226-2093 New Life Baptist Church 2620 Old Grade Rd, 30721 Poplar Springs Baptist Church 897 Poplar Springs Rd, 30720 706-259-8727 Salem Baptist Church 1448 Pleasant Grove Dr, 30721 706-259-7045 Shiloh Baptist Church 2014 East Waugh St, 30721 706-226-5981 Temple Baptist Church 2310 South Dixie Rd, 30720 706-226-6785 Unity Baptist Church 1008 Burleyson Rd, 30720 706-226-3026 Valley Baptist Church 2907 Old Rome, 30720
Bible
Fellowship Bible Church
Church of Christ
Trinity UMC 901 Veterans Dr, 30721 706-278-4042 United Methodist Church 1700 Beverly Dr, 30720 706-278-3954 Varnell United Methodist Church 3485 Highway 2 Cohutta, 30710 706-694-8023 Wesley Chapel UMC 808 Jamestown CT, 30721 706-270-2331
Church of God
First Church of the Nazarene 2325 Chattanooga Rd, 30720 706-278-8428 Grace Church of the Nazarene 1111 Nelson St, 30721 706-278-1171
2044 Dug Gap Rd, 30720 706-278-6269
Catholic
Saint Joseph’s Catholic Church 968 Haig Mill Lake Rd, 30720 706-278-3107
Christian
First Christian Church 1506 Dug Gap Rd, 30720 706-278-7244
Central Church of Christ 515 N. Tibbs Rd, 30720 706-278-8051 Riverbend Church of Christ 2218 S Riverbend Rd, 30721 706-226-0819
Cedar Valley Church of God 2744 Cleveland Highway, 30721 706-259-0016 Church of God of Union Assembly 2311 South Dixie Rd, 30720 706-275-0510 City View Church of God 1814 City View, 30720 706-226-6686 Crosspointe 2681 Underwood Street 30721 706-278-2649
Community
Rock Bridge Community Church 100 West Gordon St, 30720 Community Fellowship Church 409 North Fredrick St, 30721 706-278-3204
Episcopal
Saint Mark’s Episcopal Church 901 West Emory St, 30720 706-278-8857
Methodist
Bethel UMC 123 Bethel Church Rd, 30721 706-278-3309 Dalton First UMC 500 South Thornton Ave, 30720 706-278-8494 Dawnville UMC 1529 Spring Ln NE, 30721 706-259-5342 Five Springs UMC 2823 Five Springs Rd, 30720 706-277-3928 Mineral Springs UMC 4079 Airport Road, 30721 706-517-0200 New Haven UMC 4040 South Dixie Highway, 30721 706-217-1879 Pleasant Grove UMC 2701 Cleveland Highway, 30721 706-259-3141 Sugar Valley UMC 503 Murry Hill Dr, 30720 706-280-9112
Nazarene
Non-Denominational
A New Beginning Full Gospel Church 2110 Antioch Rd, 30721 706-602-8998 Church on the Hill 1035 Abutment Rd, 30721 706-278-9208 River of Life Church of Dalton 2919 East Walnut Ave, 30721 706-965-6683 Cornerstone Family Church 1240 Dawnville Rd, 30721 706-259-8509 Good Neighbors Church 910 South Thornton Ave, 30720 706-226-0846 Gospel Light Tabernacle 804 Sheridan Ave, 30721 Saint James Overcoming Church 400 North Fredrick St, 30721 706-278-0319
Pentecostal
True Gospel Pentecostal Church 109 South Henderson St, 30721 706-278-5696
Presbyterian
ChristChurch Presbyterian 510 South Tibbs Rd, 30720 706-226-5437 First Presbyterian Church 1419 Chattanooga Ave, 30720 706.278-8161 Grace Presbyterian Church 2107 Threadmill Rd, 30720 706-226-6344
Seventh Day Adventist
3 Angels Hispanic Seventh Day Adventist Church 701 E Morris St, 30721 706-618-1182 Dalton Hispanic Seventh Day Adventist Church 112 W Long St, 30720 706-275-0523 Seventh Day Adventist Church
300 South Tibbs Rd, 30720 706-226-216
Church Activities & Events Fellowship Bible Church Ladies Retreat!
Friday, April 15, 2016 (noon) – Saturday, April 16, 2016 Church office number: 706-278-6269
Senior Fun and Fellowship in the Gym Tuesday, April 19, 2016 • 6:30pm – 8:00pm Church office number: 706-278-6269
Iron Sharpens Iron - Men’s Conference Saturday, April 23, 2016 • 8:00am – 5:00pm
For all men ages 13+. Meet at Christ United Methodist Church: 8645 East Brainerd Road at 8:00 AM. Email Tim Chaney in order to sign up, or for more information. Church office number: 706-278-6269
First Bapist Church of Dalton Spring Golf Outing April 22 - 23, 2016
Lake Arrowhead Canton, GA. Call the church for more information!
State Bible Drill April 28 - April 29
Cartersville, GA. Call the church for more information!
Mt. Rachel Baptist Church 2nd Annual Children’s Art Festival Sunday, April 24, 2016
Call the church for more information!
Grace Presbyterian Church Family Retreat
April 29, 2016 - May 1, 2016
Cohutta Springs Conference Center, 1175 Cohutta Springs Rd, Crandall, GA 30711
Dalton Seventh-Day Adventist Church Free Concert! • Steve Green April 9, 2016 • 11am & 6:30pm
Both the 11 am and the 6:30 pm programs will be at the Dalton Seventh-day Adventist Church at 300 South Tibbs Road. Admission is FREE.
8th Annual Dr. Bob Raitz Memorial Golf Tournament Spring Lakes Golf Course in Chatsworth, GA on Sunday, April 24th.
The tournament will be a four-man team format, with a shotgun start at 1:00pm. Practice and registration begins at noon. Individual fees are $65 a player; sponsorship opportunities are also available. Please call Jeff White, Jr. at 706-218-5979 or email him at jwhitejr@whitespediatrics.com for more information. All proceeds from the tournament benefit Learning Three Elementary School’s Sponsorship Fund. Thank you in advance for helping to make quality Christian education affordable for children in our community!
Vacation Bible School
June 6-10 from 5:30pm to 8:30pm
VBS will be offered this summer the week of June 6-10 from 5:30pm to 8:30pm at the Dalton SDA Church. Join us as we “PLUG INTO THE POWER” of Jesus! VBS is open to all children ages 3 through 12. We will need volunteers to have a great program. Let us know how you can help. Please contact Ben Nwadike at 706-508-2475.
FEATURED COVER STORY
An End to Animal Euthanization Vision:
O
ur vision is to make Whitfield County a community where no adoptable pets are euthanized. “In fact, it is our passion,” remarks Susan Dennard, President
of the Humane Society of Northwest Georgia. The Humane Society of Northwest Georgia is an all-
volunteer run and funded non-profit organization. Founded in 1977, it has been at its current location at 1703 Cleveland Highway in Dalton since 2006. Dr. Charles Wade, a vet who practiced at that location for 60 years, wished for it to be leased to the Humane Society as an animal shelter. The mission of the HSNWGA is to make Whitfield County a community where no adoptable pets are euthanized. This is done through our successful adoption program, aggressive spay/neuter programs and education, and promotion of responsible pet ownership and humane education.
What HSNWGA Offers:
The “no kill” organization recues about 375 dogs and cats
each year. Most of the animals come from Animal Control
20 // April 2016
of Whitfield County. These homeless animals can be strays picked up on the street, pets given up by their owners, or animals taken out of homes where they are abused or neglected. “You name it, we’ve seen it,” Dennard says. At any given time, the center can house 30-40 dogs of all sizes and types and the cattery can support 15-20 cats. Shifts of volunteers come in three times a day to care for the animals, meeting their basic needs of food, shelter, and vet care. The animals also have their social needs met with lots of attention from the volunteers and also from their furry friends during play times. We always need good volunteers to help. You can fill out a volunteer application online (www.hsnwga.org) or come in to the center to apply. Before adoption, all animals are given their vaccines and a heart worm test, treated for heart worm infection if needed, and are spayed or neutered. To adopt, an adoption application can be filled out at the center or online. Then the adoption team processes the application to insure that the dog or cat finds the perfect match in their adopter. We are open for adoptions every Saturday from noon to 4 PM.
The Humans of the Humane Society:
The Humane Society of Northwest Georgia is registered
as a 501(c)(3)non-profit organization. We are funded solely by private donations. Individuals, corporations, foundations, and even school groups contribute to our organization to help keep our programs viable.
win-win situation, with the youth learning life skills such as compassion and dogs granted a second chance at a home. “The youth love to work with the dogs and it’s hard to be angry or upset when you’re petting a dog!” said Brooks. The Meals on Wheels program is another important program with which the Humane Society is involved. The HSNWGA joins the Meals on Wheels program to provide pet food for people who can’t afford to feed their pets. It’s one more way they help keep animals in their homes instead of being taken to Animal Control. In 2015, they gave away 11,230 pounds of dog food and 1,826 pounds of cat food.
Their Past and Future:
The HSNWGA has had a tremendous impact in our
community on euthanasia rates. In 2010, 4176 animals were euthanized at Animal Control. Last year, that number had dropped to 1582. Our spay/neuter program and spay/neuter education have greatly contributed to this outcome. “I started volunteering because I love animals,” says Pat Bell, head of our adoption team. “What I came to realize is how much they helped me.” In fact, it’s amazing how much pets bring to people. Studies have shown how therapeutic the interaction between an animal and a person can be. People who are lonely, depressed, anxious, or ill benefit so much from a wagging tail and a lick on the face, whether they are volunteers or adopters. You’ve heard the saying “Who rescued who?” There’s a good reason behind that statement as animal rescuers realize it’s not only the animal who wins in an adoptive situation; the companionship benefits the adopter as well.
The organization is on the move! We have plans drawn
The HSNWGA also partners with the Department
up for a new facility and are making final revisions before
of Juvenile Justice and its Rescue to Restore program at
moving forward. The new building will be on Legion Drive
the Elbert Shaw Youth Detention Center. Adoptable dogs
next to Park Creek Elementary School. It will be a state of the
rescued by the Humane Society are trained by the youth at
art facility allowing us to bring in more dogs and cats while
the center. Devon Brooks, a volunteer for the organization
we find their “forever homes.” Once we move into the new
and avid dog lover, teaches the youth how to train the dogs.
building, we will have even more volunteer opportunities. We
The goal is for the dogs to obtain a Canine Good Citizen
invite donations from the public. You can send donations to
Certification, which makes the dogs more adoptable. It’s a
HSNWGA, P.O. Box 3946, Dalton, GA 30719. “Our hope for our organization is that one day we’ll be put out of business”, says Dennard, “that there will no longer be adoptable dogs and cats euthanized in our community. That would be a day to celebrate!” Creating communities where animals are valued is the only way to make a real, long-term difference.
issuu.com/goodnewsdalton // 21
Gò0dNews for Parents Teaching Spiritual Values to Children in Everyday Life
A
by Brenda Dedmon
n important part of parenting is teaching children about who God is and what He has done. One of my favorite quotes about parenting is: “At the end of the day, the most overwhelming key to a child’s success is the positive involvement of parents.” There are many influences in a child’s life, but the most important is that of parents. Moses reminded the people of the commands God expected from them and in Deuteronomy 11 we find what he told the people about teaching these truths to their children. It reads, “Teach these things to your children. Talk about them when you’re sitting together in your home and when you’re walking together down the road. Make them the last thing you talk about before you go to bed and the first things you talk about the next morning.” God wants his people to be intentional about learning and remembering God’s ways every day. What are some practical ways these might be accomplished? There are three ways families can accomplish this that are fun and everyone would look forward to doing. An important part of parenting is teaching children about who God is and what He has done.
1. Head Dr. Seuss said it best when he said, “Think and Wonder, Wonder and Think”. As a family discuss a TV show, cartoon, or movie that you could watch and then answer these questions: • In what ways were the character’s being themselves? • Did you see any way they were living out their lives that looked like Jesus? You can utilize the same exercises with the Bible and not just television. Consider the following questions before selecting and bringing the topic to your family:
22 // April 2016
• What Bible stories would serve as a discussion starter for everyone to be involved? • What did the story mean to the people it was written for in the Bible? • How can that story have meaning to your family today? 2. Heart Dr. Seuss also said, “Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better, it’s not.” As a family discuss: • Ways you can show love and grace to each other in your family • How you can show a heart of love when others have mistreated you • How forgiveness is an important part of showing God’s love and grace
3. Hands Dr. Seuss’s wisdom continues when he said, “You have brains in your head, you have feet in your shoes, you can steer yourself any direction you choose.” As a family discuss: • Ways your family could develop friendships with families who have different beliefs to show God’s love. • Discuss ways to do something for someone who would have no way of giving anything back to you.
None of these activities are earth shattering, however they are simple everyday life types of activities. Teaching spiritual values should be a part of everyday life. Some days will be better than others. A simple way is to ask, “How can we be more intentional with these things we are already doing so our children can better understand who God is, what He has done, and who He has made us to be? Rev. Brenda Dedmon, Director of Children’s Learning Center, First Baptist of Dalton,GA
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Gò0dNews for Health & Fitness
B
New Year’s Resolutions: Why it is Just as Easy to Succeed as Fail by Thomas Morrison
oth success and failure involve future consequences from actions (or the lack of them) taken today. Every year people make New Year’s resolutions and every year, for too many people, those resolutions are abandoned within several days or weeks of making them. That’s too bad, because as I learned from business philosopher Jim Rohn, achieving New Year’s resolutions can be just as easy as abandoning them, if you know how. Here is some of what he taught me.
The Formula for Failure
This may sound obvious, but failure is almost never a single, one-time event. We don’t just fail to achieve a goal overnight. No, what happens is we make a bad choice, and then we make it again, and again, and again. In other words, failure is nothing more than a few errors in judgment repeated every day.
Learning What’s Important
Now the question we must ask ourselves is: “Why would someone be so stupid as to make an error in judgment and then make it again every day?” The answer is simple: Because they do not think it is important. On their own, our little daily choices don’t seem to amount to much. A minor oversight, a bad decision, a wasted hour just doesn’t seem so bad when there isn’t any immediate impact. Since the sky did not fall in on us yesterday, the action is probably safe to repeat today. But, Oh! We must be smarter than that!
24 // April 2016
Failure’s Subtlety
Failure’s great danger is its subtlety. In the area of health, people who eat too many of the wrong kinds of food find that the joy of the moment overshadows the possibility of any future reckoning. It doesn’t seem to matter. Those who smoke or drink too much are in the same boat, making poor choices day after day after year after year...because they haven’t gotten sick yet and it doesn’t seem to matter. But friends, it does matter, and since we live in the now, all those days of feeling good while accumulating the price of our errors won’t matter when we ARE feeling sick.
The Formula for Success
Now we are ready for the good news. Just like the formula for failure is small errors in judgment repeated every day, the formula for success is also a few, simple disciplines practiced every day. Now here is the million dollar question: “How can we recognize the errors we keep doing in the formula for failure, and turn them into the disciplines required in the formula for success?” The answer is wisdom. And one prime characteristic of wisdom is that it thinks about tomorrow—about next week, next year, the next five years, about eternity. Both success and failure involve FUTURE consequences from actions (or the lack of them) taken today.
The Key Principle
So often, when people fail at a resolution it is because the objective is too big and vague. They fail to see the tiny steps they can take each day that over time will bring them the success they seek. If I asked you, “Could you write a 400 page book in 2016?” Most of you I think would say no. But if I asked you, “Could you write 1 ¼ pages today?” Most would say yes. It is the accumulated weight of the little right choices made every day that make for great achievements over time. The same is true in building health and wellness.
Thomas Morrison, Fitness Coordinator, Bradley Wellness Center
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Gò0dNews for Teens
Submit to Who? by Fernando Alejandro
A
You younger men, likewise, be subject to your elders; and all of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, for God is opposed to the proud, but gives grace to the humble – 1 Peter 5:5
ll adults can agree that adolescents have trouble submitting to authority. Adults demand respect from the adolescents and vice-versa. Adolescents complain that adults don’t respect them or that adults just don’t understand their way of life. Adolescents have created to world that is all about them and they’re entitled to everything or anything because we adults owe them. I know I may sound absolutely rude, but I remember I was the same way as a teen and I am not that far removed from adolescents today; I’m only twenty-three. If you’re an adolescent reading this right now you’re probably telling yourself that I just don’t understand you or your contemporary culture, but just keep reading. Adults demand adolescents to fully submit to their command and wishes. Adolescents want adults to view them as equals and want an equal voice in all-important topics and the idea of having some responsibilities without actually having to be responsible for anything. But, a question that I want to present to all adults is have we as a whole cultivated a generation that is made up of entitled-driven individuals? Just look at the concept of Christmas. Your children give you a list of items that they expect you to buy and if you don’t buy them the items they request you hear,
26 // April 2016
“I guess you don’t love me enough” or “why did you get me the iPhone 6 plus when you could have gotten me the iPhone 6S Plus?” Do you see that the problem isn’t just adolescents not wanting to submit to adult’s authority, but we have given them too much say-so or authority to determine how they want to live? The root of this issue is that adolescents don’t see adults submitting to the authority of God, and yet we are to set that example for them. How in the world do you expect your son or daughter to submit to your authority when you can’t submit to God’s? We want our children to be super spiritual giants (that’s why we send them to youth camps right?), but we, as adults, can’t even face our own demons. If an adolescent doesn’t see victory take place in our (adult) lives, they will not know what the battle or victory should look like. Adolescents need to see adults submit to God and obey the commandments that he has set forth for us to follow. I want adolescents to know that it is not the adults’ fault for the authority problem you all have; there’s responsibility that you all have to take now and begin to submit to God first which will give you the ability to submit yourselves to others. As Jesus submitted himself to his disciples when he washed their feet, a true representation of servanthood and submission, we old and young alike must replicate that example daily to one another. 1 Peter 5:5 says, “You younger men, likewise, be subject to your elders; and all of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, for God is opposed to the proud, but gives grace to the humble.”
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.
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Gò0dNews for Seniors
Challenge = Change
B
by Esmerelda Lee
elieve it or not, Andrew and I have recently been participating in yoga at home during our morning exercise routines. As we bend, sway, and breathe, “Namaste”, meaning hope, peace and love is something we do not feel. In fact, someone watching us would see two very uncoordinated “not-so-young people” falling more than once, and they would undoubtedly hear our bones crackle, squeak, and pop throughout the session. And as we stretch, they would be alarmed to hear the mixture of relief and agony we audibly voice with a deep resounding, “aaaahhhhhhhhhhh!” But, when we are done, we feel completely proud that we have relieved the stress of a week of exercising and life. This is truly our weekly “aaaaaahhhhhh” moment! It is no wonder that recent statistics from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention showed that just over half of adults 65 years and older are inactive. As I become older, exercising is becoming challenging. But challenging always equals change, and I desire positive change in my life. Bob Sliger, resident at Garden Plaza at Cleveland, recently turned 94 years old. Daily, whether Bob walks the Cleveland Greenway or the Village at Garden Plaza Campus, he continues his goal of 3 miles a day. Bob has excellent blood pressure, takes no medications, and has an intelligent electrician’s mind. He has lived with us for many years and we were very honored when Bob was chosen to carry the torch for the Senior Olympics three years ago. Bob attributes his health to a lifestyle of exercise.
28 // April 2016
My own father-in law, Dr. Ollie Lee, will celebrate his 78th birthday this month. Daily he continues to walk 5 miles, and when he receives a call from his tennis partners, he is ready and able to play a game of doubles tennis. He has instilled in my children the continued habit of always beginning each day with water and living a lifestyle of exercising. Beginning a lifestyle of exercise and fitness at any age is difficult; however it is truly necessary. But this does not always mean the same thing to everyone. To some it may mean going to the gym and to others it may mean clicking off the television and doing household chores. I watch my children play for hours on their cell phones, and I am encouraged when they finally lay them down and go to the tennis courts at Lee University, or when I hear the thump of the basketball at night in the driveway, and when I hear the laughter as they chase each other in a game of tag in our front yard. Physical activity does not mean we have to ‘pound it out’ at the gym. But it does mean that we can change our destiny by changing today. My father-in law’s parents worked the land in the 1940’s-1970’s, and in many ways they were blessed. They found pride in using their hands and their feet to build their future. Today, many things come to us easily. Our food can be retrieved from a drivethru; our news is delivered by a click of a button, and our lifestyle can be found at a desk or on a warm couch. However, we can change our destiny by challenging our bodies and our minds. Yes, there may be crackles, squeaks, and pops along the way, but that’s the beauty of life. As you plant flowers, you can squat, and as you walk to the mail box, you can lunge. Take advantage of a beautiful day by walking, putting up groceries, and bending to pick up the newspaper. And remember, we do not want to be part of the 60 percent of older adults that live sedentary lifestyles. We want to be like Bob Sliger and Dr. Ollie Lee. We want to be torchbearers for our own Olympics of Life. 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 Daily Living
Christians in the Workforce “Do all to the glory of God”. 1 Cor. 10:31 by Alice Marie Abbott
In the next few months I would like to focus on a very important area of our lives, and that is the work place. Our places of employment can be one of our greatest mission fields. It is a place that we spend the majority of our week and a great deal of our time is spent with co-workers, outside of our family and friends. While being a place of opportunity to witness to others about Jesus Christ, with not just our words, but with our conduct and lifestyle, it can also be a place of great stress. However, stress is a symptom of anxiety and worry and is not an attribute of a Christian. God expects His children to have a higher level of trust in Him than to be worried and stressed out over our jobs all the time. In Matt. 6:25–26 and 31-34 Jesus tells his followers not to worry about their lives in any area. This includes our jobs. We, as Christians, are not exempt from the stressors that are a part of our everyday work. However, we are held to a higher example and influence by our heavenly Father. It is in this way that we are better able to reach out and help our co-workers with a godly countenance so that they can see the peace of God in our lives. Phil. 4:6-7 teaches that we are not to be anxious about anything. When we are anxious and stressed it is difficult for us to show peace and contentment. To live a life of anxiety and stress would seem to be living contrary to what God expects of us. It is not easy to show a peaceful countenance when you find yourself getting consumed with all of the tasks that need to be taken care of in your work day, and yet it isn’t impossible. Stress is a part of living. It is part of the human condition, our fallen-ness. Not all things in life are certain, and we often have a desire to
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have more control over our lives t h an we ca n actually attain. It is when life starts seeming out of control and overwhelming for us that stress rears its ugly head. Yet there are things that we can put into practice in our daily lives to alleviate some of the stress. They include but are not limited to: • Understand that we cannot control everything. Our lives are more fulfilling when God is in control instead of us. • Plan a sensible life-style that gives a measure of relief from the pressures we face. Stop trying to keep up a life-style that you cannot financially afford. Live within your means. Be satisfied with what you have, bless others who are in need, and God, in turn, will bless you. • Set aside quiet time every day to spend with God in worship and prayer. Ask God to help you put the business life in perspective; this is a large part of winning the battle with stress. • It is also important to take care of yourself. You need time for relaxation and exercise. Make sure you do something each and every day that takes your mind off of work. • Cultivate a hobby or interest that does not involve responsibility to work or family. • Nurture your friendships. Do not neglect your relationships with your friends. Friends are a gift from God. They are the family you get to choose. • Most importantly, at the end of the work day, give it all to God. With these steps in practice you will reduce your stress level and your co-workers will notice a difference in you, thus giving you the opportunity to share with them what makes your life so different – it’s Jesus Christ. Next month we will discuss the importance of working for the glory of God.
Alice Abbott is a licensed ordained minister with an honorary doctorate of divinity degree through World Christianship Ministries. Also a certified crisis pregnancy counselor through the AACC. She is an office manager for At Home Health Care and attends church at The Sanctuary.
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Gò0dNews for Couples
Love Is in the Air:
Thoughts on Preparing for Marriage This Spring
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by Aaron M. Shaner
braham Lincoln once said, “Give me six hours to cut down a tree and I will spend the first four sharpening the axe.” When we take time to carefully hone our tools and skills, it allows us to be more productive as we attack life’s challenges. Having sharp tools is not the only important element, you first need to have the right tools. I always enjoy seeing my woodworking projects transform into beautiful pieces of furniture. Using effective tools allows the wood to be cut or shaped smoothly. Having the right gauges, saws, or chisels makes for less guess work and adjustment later. While learning this hobby, I have often heard my father-in-law say that the job is made easier when you have the right tools. The same careful preparation and equipping is also crucial to having a successful marriage. Longer days, warmer temperatures, flowers in bloom; spring is in the air - and with spring comes the sound of wedding bells and “I dos.” Maybe you or someone you know will be tying the knot this spring and you have witnessed the optimism and excitement that they have about the future. Most people enter marriage with a rose-colored, glass is always full outlook for the future of their relationship. Scientists who do research on why people fall in love have long been interested in the romantic phenomena that fuels this type of optimism. When we fall head over heels for someone, we feel better about ourselves, are more confident about the future, and are excusing of the faults in those to whom we’re attracted. This sense of love and optimism is literally changing one’s brain chemistry to such a level that it changes the way they see the world. However, as you may know, these effects are not long lasting. Mortgage payments, student loans, new babies, stress at work, and sexual difficulties can kill the fire quickly! Many new married couples are surprised by the consequences these stressors have on their relationship. Being newly married is challenging at times, but those who are on the road to marriage this spring or summer are not without help. Seeking the aid of a good premarital counselor can help couples sharpen their relationship tools and develop the skills needed to help their marriage last. As a clinician who works with both pre-marriage and marriage clients, here are some topics that I ask couples to talk through as they prepare for this new season of life. Finances Money management is the number one issue that people cite for stress in their marriage. Much of this stress can be reduced with proper habits and communication. Disclosing vital information to your future spouse about
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income, debts, and other financial obligations can help you discover creative strategies for money management as you enter this new partnership. Also, discuss spending preferences such as: education, personal habits, and long term financial goals. Family of Origin Our family of origin instilled in all of us rules, many of which were unspoken, that we bring into our relationship which affect our future family. Ideas such as how your family spent free time, how they observed holidays, and ways in which your parents used discipline are some examples of the “language of relationship” we bring to marriage. Being aware of these customs can help you and your spouse negotiate habits to keep and habits to modify or adjust. Intimacy Preparing for marriage deserves a conversation about sex that is more than just the birds and the bees talk. Like other family of origin issues, you have inherited a position on human sexuality that was influenced by your upbringing. In good ways and bad, knowledge about sex is pervasive in our culture, and still many new couples come into marriage with false or misguided information about the sexual aspect of a relationship. Personal insecurities that you are not willing to address will only be magnified in an intimate relationship. By honestly addressing these issues with a professional, you can better prepare yourself for a more fulfilling intimate relationship. Self
I have often told my clients, it takes two healthy individuals to have a healthy marriage. How well do you know your own personality, let alone the personality of your future spouse? We often underestimate how our personality is going to have an effect on future relationships. Exploring this and other areas of yourself can help you be the most well - equipped version of you in this new relationship. Marriage is an exciting and wonderful journey that will allow you to grow as a person in ways you may not yet realize. However, the challenges in marriage that produce personal growth can trip us up if we aren’t prepared for them. Seeking the counsel of a good premarital counselor can set you or your loved ones on the path towards a bright future. Aaron Shaner is a Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist and Licensed Associate Professional Counselor of The Rapha House Counseling Center of ChristChurch Presbyterian. Aaron and other counselors can be reached at 706-264-1920 or www.theraphahouse.org
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
It’s Raining Blessings by Nicole Wiley Every good and perfect gift is from above. –James 1:17 NIV
T
his is the notable month for “April showers.” Of course, we all consider this to mean constant rain during the month of April, but I like to imagine the rain as the copious amount of blessings that the Lord gives us. In my life, I try to consider everything to be a blessing. Sometimes, there are things that happen that don’t seem like blessings, but God’s plans are the correct ones, and He knows exactly what He is doing. When my shoulder injury required surgery, I couldn’t seem to understand what good could come from this and how this could serve as a blessing from God. I soon discovered that, indeed, this bump in the road was a blessing, just in disguise. I researched the definition of “blessing”, discovering that the word describes God’s favor and protection upon us. Everything in my life is a blessing from God, no matter how small the blessing may seem. The more obvious blessings in my life include my family, friends, food, clothes, etc. When I looked deeper, I realized that my talents and loves are also tremendous blessings from God, because these activities give me an outlet to tell others about Him and remember that every talent that I have comes from Him. Writing, swimming,
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music and, ultimately, theatre are the most important things in my life next to my relationship with God and the people I love. Everybody has a place where they fit in and where they feel like their talents are most appreciated. For me, that is the pool and the theatre. There, I feel at home, and I feel as though I can best showcase the talents that the Lord has given me. There are points in time when I realize how much the Lord has blessed me. For example, the feeling of an empty theatre with nobody in the house seats, not a sound except for your voice, and no lights except for the blinding stage lights, is unexplainable. It’s times like these when you realize how beautiful things are and how many blessings you really have. You realize how blessed you are when you feel the cold water of the swimming pool splashing against your face, the strong smell of chlorine filling your nose, and the sound of steady inhales and exhales coming from your mouth. Second Corinthians 2:8-9 says, “And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. As it is written: ‘They have freely scattered their gifts to the poor; their righteousness endures forever.’” Blessings are so abundant that, many times, we overlook them and forget how special they truly are. Every day, every minute, and every second is a gift from God. In those minutes, we fill our time with things that we love, which are also blessings from Him to us. “Every good and perfect gift is from above.” –James 1:17 NIV.
Nicole Wiley is a sophomore at Cleveland High School who attends First Baptist Church.
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
Lift Up Your Eyes by Kelly McDonald “I lift up my eyes to the mountains— where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.” Psalm 121:1-2 (NIV)
W
e all encounter situations that are out of our control. Perhaps you are being mistreated by co-workers. You may be in a financial valley that you cannot seem to climb out of. There are always concerns about our family and friends. Sometimes you are trying to overcome a habit that has been spiritually holding you back. In the midst of all these situations, it is important to keep your eyes focused upwardly and not outwardly or inwardly.
I’ve had a difficult time like this that I would like to share. A few years ago, I went through a time period that was very trying. I was financially struggling and facing opposition from friends because of my service to God. Some of my closest friends opposed me because I was stepping out on faith. It was during this time that God showed me a very important spiritual principle: “Sometimes you have to focus on your God and not your situation.” How true this is! So many times, we tell our God how big our situation is instead of telling
36 // April 2016
our situation the strength of our God. David was faced with a daunting challenge when he faced Goliath. Goliath was nine feet tall! The entire army of Israel was scared to death of this giant. They focused on the size of the situation and not the size of their God! David said, “You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the Lord Almighty…” (I Samuel 17:45). David did not focus on the weapons being used, but the name of Him who made all things. He lifted up his eyes to Heaven and drew strength from God. Sometimes we think we can fix our situations by human effort. We must always remember that human reason will fall short. Proverbs 3:5-6 reads, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” We think we can “fix it” when we just need to lift up our eyes. Your seemingly un-slayable giant is a divine opportunity to lift up your eyes to the God in Heaven and let His abundant provision meet your need.
Kelly McDonald, Jr. is an ordained evangelist with Hungry Hearts Ministries. He has written 15 books and booklets on Christian Living. www.hungryheartsministry.com
Gò0dNews from the Tech Shop
God and Technology
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by Chris Isbill
ometimes I wonder exactly what it is that keeps us going day after day. For some of us it is simply the drive to better our family. For others it is possibly the responsibilities that each day lays out before us. In today’s world uncertainty is at its highest, so maybe it’s the achieving of a goal that will make our future a little brighter. Maybe that is a promotion or degree, or maybe that is a new house or car. To some it is college funds for our children’s children. No matter what the drive, goal, or next step, there are two things that will be there to help you along: God and technology. The real question here is: Which one will you or I lean on the most? I am so grateful for technology. It serves its purposes well in our fast-paced high-volume society. I believe that God absolutely gives people the wisdom to be able to create and build whatever we need to help us be productive. Still, there is another side of things. You see, there are people that don’t live for any of those things listed above. There are people that simply live day to day, thankful from breath to breath for one more day that was given to them from the Lord. One more day of love and laughter with the family. Let me elaborate more. Around this time two years ago, I found myself sitting on a metal table in the office of a world renowned skin doctor. This was my 2nd visit in and I had just been diagnosed with three incurable skin diseases. Trial after trial, prescription after prescription, and a visit later I am told that I have a precancerous tumor on my lower mid back and that
38 // April 2016
they have to cut it out before it reaches my spine. During that same trip, the doctor told me that there was nothing else they could do for me in regards to my skin diseases. They had expended all medicines except for one and I couldn’t have it because it would kill me due to my liver. The drug was called Methotrexate. It is used as chemotherapy. Two weeks later I developed an infection in the hole that was cut out of my back. The last visit was for this and on this visit I was informed that they wouldn’t be seeing me anymore unless the infection worsened. Why? Because they had no other options to help me. No medicine, no machine, no technology. All I had was a cane to help me walk. Two years later, with no medical help at all, God stepped in and now I am free to walk again and on my way to a nice recovery. So for me, I have those other dreams and desires, but when those gifts come, they are so much sweeter than they were before. What is it that you are going through? What turmoil is your life in? What pain lies behind those eyes in the depths of your heart? What are you leaning on today? What is your faith being put into? I can promise you this: If it isn’t God then it is time to ask yourself why not. He is the only one that can truly fix and heal you. Not a dating site, online tax refund, or some self-help gypsy that can read your future. No matter what, technology can only assist in the surgery, but it is up to God to heal you. Matthew 11:28 (NLT) “Then Jesus said, ‘Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.’”
Chris Isbill is the owner of Isbill Tech Services and enjoys spending time with his wife Chelsie and their dog Maggie.
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