Gò0dNews April 2020
Complimentary
Christian Magazine
®
DALTON & CHATSWORTH
Is it time for a heart to heart?
Is your heart healthy? It may be time for a heart-to-heart with a cardiologist. Hamilton Medical Center: • #1 in Dalton, Chattanooga, and Cleveland for Medical Excellence in Interventional Coronary Care • First Eluvia Drug-Coated Peripheral Stent Insertion in Georgia • One of the First Hospitals in the State to Implant the World's Smallest Pacemaker • Distal Radial Heart Catheterization • Accredited Chest Pain Center with Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI)
1200 Memorial Drive Dalton, GA 706.272.6000
About Us WRITERS
Andrew Lee Bridget Gray C.L. Watkins Cheryl King Chester V. Clark Deana Thompson Denise Nelson Earl Brackin Jennifer Hastings Karen Jeffery Laura Perdue Mario L. Miller Rhonda Lane Stephen Baker Tammy Madden Tommy Deal Wayne Williams
SALES
Shane Franks 706-270-2410
DESIGN
Caleb Prytherch
PHOTOGRAPHER Paula Knipp 423-310-4207
Hello Friends, We want to take a moment to tell you who we are and what we are about. Our names are Matt and Bethany Ruckman and we have six beautiful children, Brendon, Kailey, Andrew, Leah Jean, Emma, and Cooper. We live in Cleveland, Tennessee, and love what this town has to offer! We have started GoodNews Christian Magazine because we feel that when God, family, and community are combined,
lives will be changed.
DISTRIBUTION
Christian lifestyle publication. You can find us
GoodNews Dalton 7500 Monthly
EDITOR
David Thompson
PUBLISHER
Matthew and Bethany Ruckman Cell: 423-503-1410 E-mail: goodnewstn@gmail.com
OFFICE
423-478-6484
WEBSITE
goodnewscm.com issuu.com/goodnewsdalton
GoodNews Christian Magazine is a complimentary, throughout the community in retail establishments, churches, restaurants, and more. Our magazine opens the door for Christians to work together to grow and strengthen our community through relevant editorial and effective advertising. GoodNews Christian Magazine is written by men and women in the community who love and serve the Lord. Our hearts are open and willing to be used by God to reach out to the community to spread the GoodNews!
Disclaimer All of the content in the GoodNews Christian Magazine is for general information and/or use. Such contents does not constitute advice and should not be relied upon in making (or refraining from making) a decision. Any specific advice or replies to queries in any part of the magazine is the personal opinion of such experts/consultants/persons and is not subscribed to by GoodNews Christian Magazine. The information in GoodNews Christian Magazine is provided on an “AS IS” basis, and all warranties, expressed or implied of any kind, regarding any matter pertaining to any information, advice or replies are disclaimed and excluded. We reserve the right to refuse any advertisement or article we deem inappropriate.
Contents APRIL 2020
GoodNews from the Pastor’s Desk
6 A Free-Man
by Mario L. Miller
GoodNews Ministry Spotlight
8 Jonathan’s House Ministries GoodNews on Money Matters
10 Let Not Your Hearts Be Troubled
by Andrew Lee GoodNews for Men
GoodNews for Everyone
28 Tweet This, Facebook That by Tommy Deal
GoodNews for Everyone
30 Destiny?
by C.L. Watkins
GoodNews for Couples
32 Couples Who Pray Together Will Stay Together!
by Laura Perdue
12 Overcoming Revenge
GoodNews for Business Spotlight
GoodNews for Women
GoodNews for Everyone
by Stephen Baker
14 Straightening Your Own Hair
by Denise Nelson GoodNews for Parents
18 Encouragement For Parents by Jennifer Hastings
GoodNews for Everyone
20 What Can We Learn From Timothy?
by Rev. Wayne Williams GoodNews for Life
22 Don’t Take Your Organs To Heaven
by Tammy Madden GoodNews for Teens
24 You Have A Purpose by Bridget Gray
GoodNews Cover Story
26 1st Franklin Financial: A
Personal Loan Company That Puts People First
34 City Florist & Gifts
6
36 Strength
by Karen Jeffery
GoodNews for Everyone
38 A Real Work Of Art by Earl Brackin
GoodNews for Everyone
40 Good News for Victims GoodNews for your Taste Buds
42 Chocolate Oatmeal Cookies
26
by Deana Thompson
GoodNews from the Physician’s Desk
44 Anna Shaw Children’s
Institute Receives Award
GoodNews for Everyone
46 Words Count
by Rhonda Lane
GoodNews for Everyone
48 Springtime in the Heart by Chester V. Clark
GoodNews for Everyone
50 Suffering Soldiers by Cheryl King
50
Gò0dNews from the Pastor’s Desk
A Free-Man
W
by Mario L. Miller
hat can you do to a free-man (person)? You can threaten them, take their life from them, lie to them, enslave them,
I believe my walking in that which was obtained for me is a testimony and a celebration of those who lived before me so I can live as a free-man, both
impoverish them, and even kill them. So what’s the
spiritually and naturally. What Christ did for me gives
difference and what’s the point? I must search deep to
me the liberty to be free. What He is doing for me
define my freedom. I can be free in my humanity or I
allows me to live as a free-man. This truth brings me
can be free in spirituality. If I am enslaved in my spiritual reality (spiritman), freedom in my humanity is a distant dream that I ache for, fight for, and even kill for, only to remain in the shackles of defeat. Martin Luther King and other freedom fighter causes were higher than the implosion of rights as a human being, but also as a spiritual being. Father God used them to fight for a chapter in our book we must move on to: the next chapter to become a free-man. The next chapter is
to a revelation of Christ before culture—not culture
called, What can you do to a free-man (person)?
before Christ. He is the reason we all can live free.
Being a free-man does not require permission from
What can you do to a free-man (person)? Be free, live
others. Being a free-man comes from the revelation of
free, and remember: no one—absolutely no one—can
what was accomplished so I could be free. Jesus set
beat you at being you.
the standard, becoming the lamb that was slain for the sins of the world. Someone sacrificed something so
Blessings,
we could walk in freedom and not bondage. Someone
Mario L. Miller
because of someone else’s suffering, sacrifices, and willingness to die.
6 // April 2020
About The Author
broke off the chains of offense, so my freedom came Mario L. Miller, husband of Corinthia, founder and pastor of Abundant Life Bible Church in Dalton, Georgia, and Hope 93.3 WTTI executive account manager. My passion and desire is to see everyone experience the Love of my Heavenly Father.
prescription needsand andlet letus usbecome become prescription needs your Hometown Hometown Independent IndependentPharmacy! Pharmacy!
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Our Pharmacists: Dr.need Jason P. Sneed, Pharmacy Manager GA Open when you us 365 days a year! 1100 Burleyson Road • Dalton, Monday thru Friday 8 am - 8 pm, Saturday 9 am - 8 pm - Sunday 11 am - 7 pm • Cookie Cook, RPh. • Dr. Tammy Houston Se Habla Español • Mark Smith, (706)RPh. 278-2490 (Speak Spanish) QUALITY STAFFING, INC. CAN YOU Insurance Plans We Accept AllHELP Major www.professionalpharmacydalton.com Open when you need us 365 days a year! FIND THE RIGHT FIT YOUR BUSINESS. County Wide Delivery tFOR
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Gò0dNews Ministry Spotlight
2
Jonathan’s House Ministries
Samuel 9 teaches us about a man named Mephibosheth, son of Jonathan. This account shows us that even in King David’s time, we as believers were called to parent orphans
even after they became adults with children of their own. Jonathan’s House Ministries’ mission is to provide aid to
young adults who have aged out of foster care or 18–25-year-olds who are homeless and without family support by providing them services in the areas of housing, mentoring, and skill building. We as an organization want to step up and fill in the gaps for these young adults who have not been given the best shot at life. When you are 18 and in foster care, you can make the decision to sign yourself out and leave or stay and receive help from the government for additional years if you meet all the requirements. Neither of these tasks is easy, and many often fail several times. Sometimes there are young adults who are too old to go into the
● 70% of human trafficking victims in the US were at one time in the US foster system. JHM provides a housing program that steps our participants into paying bills by giving them six months’ paid rent and utilities in one of our houses. This time enables each participant to make decisions about his or her future career goals. During this time, they are also provided a mentor and financial counselor. Our mentors have been through trauma training and are volunteers with our organization who agree with and support our mission. Jonathan’s House Ministries also provides skills training to our young adults as well as other group homes in our area. These workshops happen two times a year and are led by different leaders in our community based on their own personal expertise. We are always looking for churches and other organizations to partner with. There are several ways to volunteer, support,
foster care system but are living in an unsafe, unhealthy living situation. We also strive to offer support and services to these individuals and families. JHM seeks to offer support to both groups of young adults and help them bounce back, make better choices, and ultimately break the bonds of generational sin and the cycle of neglect and abuse. Recent statistics show: ● 71% of young women who age out of foster care become pregnant by age 21. ● 60% of young men who age out of foster care become incarcerated by age 24. ● Half of all young adults who age out of foster care develop a substance abuse problem.
8 // April 2020
or advocate, and we can plug you into any of these roles. If you are interested in volunteering or supporting us, please contact Director Amanda Bartley at 706-218-4561, visit us at 202 South Cherry Street, Tunnel Hill, GA 30755, or follow us on Facebook at @Jonathan’s House Ministries. Thank you for whatever level of support you decide that you can provide. If promising to pray for our participants, volunteers, and families is more your level of commitment, then contact me to receive our prayer lists.
Come join the Summer Fun!
Dance T heatre of Dalton www.dancetheatreofdalton.com
Call (706) 529-5664 for classes/camps schedule
Summer Camps 2020 Princess Adventure Camps (ages 3-5)
Adventure Art Camps (ages 3 and up)
Little Theatre (ages 4-8)
“American Girl doll camp”
Story Dance Camps (ages 6-10)
“Frozen II”
Leaps, Turns, and Swans (intermediate dance intensive for ages 8 and up)
Young Actors Camp (ages 8 and up)
www.advancerehab.com Advance Rehabilitation is a Physical Therapy Practice specializing in Orthopaedic, Back Pain/Injuries and Athletic Injuries.
ADAIRSVILLE 7423 Adairsville Hwy (770) 773-9315
JASPER 620 J.L. White Dr, Ste. 110 (706) 692-9080
CALHOUN 136 West Belmont Dr. SW (706) 625-0662
SUMMERVILLE 11638 Hwy 27, Suite 1 (706) 857-6366
CEDARTOWN 1566 Rome Hwy (770) 749-0250
ROCKMART 1081 Nathan Dean Pkwy (678) 757-1899
CHATSWORTH 1422 Green Rd. Suite N (706) 695-9699
ROME 224 Shorter Ave (706) 235-2727
“High School Musical”
Pointe Intensive Dance Camp
CALL US TODAY!
Hip Hop Workshop
FROM PREVENTION TO REHABILITATION
(ages 10 and up)
(ages 7 and up)
WILDWOOD CHARM BOUTIQUE PRESENTS
Protect Your Home From Pests
Catwalk for a cause M I N I S T R I E S
p e s t
s o l u t i o n s
Thursday, April 16 • Walnut Hill Farm Dinner & Fashion Show Fundraiser
Guest Speaker: Miss Georgia, Victoria Hill
A spring fashion show to benefit young adults that have aged out of foster care
Tickets start at $50 Sales, info, & Sponsorships at eventbrite.com
Call Us Today For A Free Inspection!
Jonathan’s House Ministries
Two Sisters& Jane Interiors
(706) 965-9078 w w w. e g p e s t . c o m Licensed In Georgia & Tennessee
Let Not Your Hearts Be Troubled MONEY MATTERS
WITH DR. ANDREW LEE 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.
T
oday as I write this, the Dow Jones Industrial Average of thirty large U.S. company stocks has plunged more than 33% since it’s all-time high only one month ago (Feb. 12th) due to fears about the COVID-19 virus. The daily ups and downs of the stock market (known as “volatility”) seem to set a new record every day—down over 1,0000 points, up nearly 2,000 points, down nearly 3,000 points. It’s enough to make any investor queasy. It’s hard to remain calm when the twenty-four-hour news channels are bombarding us with pessimism and dire warnings, and I understand their intent: an “abundance of caution” now can prevent future spread of the virus. People are panicking, as they have always panicked in times of distress. Personally, I’m concerned that the panicking and anxiety will ultimately cause more harm than the virus. But since this is a financial column, let’s focus on the economic impact. By the time you’re reading this article, we will have seen and heard countless government proposals for addressing economic problems related to the virus, including how to help restaurant, airline, and tourism workers, provisions for child care and elder care, to name only a few. National and global quarantines (or lockdowns or “sheltering in place”, if you prefer) have numerous consequences that are likewise economically crippling. By the time you’re reading this, we may already have new government policies in place for temporarily suspending evictions for tenants who lost their jobs and can’t pay their rent, and similarly for homeowners and landlords who need their mortgage payments temporarily suspended, as the Italian government has already done.
10 // April 2020
Investors (anyone with any money in the stock markets or bond markets or real estate) should remember that typically the only ones who get hurt on a roller coaster are the ones who jump off. Unless you are very close to retirement, you should remain calm and remember that you’re investing for the long-term. This too shall pass, and the markets will once again hit an all-time high. By selling now in a panic, you’re guaranteed to lose lots of money. Now, if you really believe this is the “zombie Apocalypse virus” that countless films have spoofed, then you’re probably digging a bunker and stocking up on guns and ammo. But most of us don’t really believe that, so instead just keep calm, pray earnestly, and trust God. As for “me and my house,” this new “bear market disaster” will cause us to lose the same amount of money we lost in the market panics of 9/11/01 and the mortgage meltdown and Great Recession—which was zero. We lost nothing because we didn’t panic, and we certainly didn’t sell any of our investments. Currently, I don’t even check my investment statements or account balances when the market is plunging like it is now. Why would I? The Bible says, “Be anxious for nothing” (Philippians 4:6). If you are very close to retirement, hopefully you heeded conventional wisdom a few years ago and reallocated your investments into a more conservative and less risky portfolio, like putting a substantial amount into bonds or CD’s. If, on the other hand, you kept most of your investments in the stock markets and you’re very near retirement and need that money to pay monthly expenses, you may be in a bit of a dilemma. But even so, try to remain calm. Be encouraged by Isaiah 26:3, “You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You.”
Gò0dNews for Men
Overcoming Revenge by Stephen Baker
I
n ancient Israel, God gave a very strict law for the Jewish people to follow. He said, “Eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot, Burning for burning, wound
for wound, stripe for stripe” (Exodus 21:24-25). This was the law of the nation of Israel: exact justice for any wrong done to another. In the New Testament, Jesus taught that Christians should live their personal lives in an entirely different way. “Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy
1. Pray for your enemies. In Matthew 5:43-45, Jesus told us to do good and pray for our enemies. When you start to pray for someone who has wronged you, God will begin to remove the bitterness from your heart. This will release you from selfdestructive hatred. 2. Don’t take revenge. In Romans 12:19, God cautions us to not take revenge. Our revenge results in limited, human judgment. Often, it gets us in trouble and puts us in a worse situation than before! 3. Give place to wrath. The proper place for wrath is with God. Turn your wrath over to Him. Not only will God carry out perfect revenge for wrongs done, but you will not get in trouble for doing something foolish! 4. Show mercy. “Be ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful” (Luke 6:36). Mercy is not giving someone what they deserve. God commands His children to be merciful because He is merciful. God forgave us after our sins put Jesus on the cross. Why can we not show mercy to others? God’s revenge is always just. What right do you and I have to take more revenge than God? God’s
neighbour, and hate thine enemy. But I say unto you, Love
revenge may be slower than ours. That is because God is
your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them
wiser than us and knows the proper time and place for
that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you,
vengeance. He also gives time for repentance because He is
and persecute you” (Matthew 5:43-44).
merciful. While we cannot always see repentance, God can.
Revenge is rooted in our desire to get back at someone
It would do all of us good to show more mercy. The thing you’re thinking will destroy the person who wronged
sympathetic to ourselves when we do wrong to others.
you will actually destroy you. A desire for vengeance will
However, we have little patience with others when they
eat away at your life. It will cause you to lose sleep and ruin
wrong us. The Bible does not teach that revenge is wrong.
your health. Turn vengeance over to God. He is an expert.
It just teaches that revenge does not belong to us. It belongs
You are not.
to God.
12 // April 2020
About The Author
for a wrong that they have done to us. We tend to be very
Pastor Stephen Baker is the pastor of Harmony Baptist Church in Dalton, Georgia. www.harmonybconline.com
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Gò0dNews for Women
Straightening Your Own Hair
H
by Denise Nelson
ebrews 5:12: “In fact, though by this time you
always let her do it for me. This worked great for me
ought to be teachers, you need someone to
until it didn’t.
teach you the elementary truths of God’s word
all over again. You need milk, not solid food.” I did something today that I haven’t done in a long
Today I decided I would straighten my hair. It had been done for me more times than I can count. Today I would have to do it myself. You see, my daughter
time. I straightened my hair. This doesn’t seem like a
passed away two years ago, and I can no longer rely
big deal. Women have been using hair straighteners
on her to do this task. As I was attempting to do what she had done for me many times, the verse from Hebrews 5:12 came to mind. The writer of Hebrews says, “In fact, though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you the elementary truths of God’s word all over again. You need milk, not solid food.” It made me wonder how many times I chose to rely on the walk of others to feed me instead of studying on my own. Just like today, when I straightened my hair, beginning wasn’t easy, but I found if I used what I did know and pressed on toward my goal,
ago, and they were complete failures. They were such
I could straighten my hair. This is true when we begin
epic fails that I refused to straighten and just embraced
to dig into the Word for ourselves. We will no longer
the natural “curl/wave” I had. I did this until my
rely on God’s Word to others, but we will begin to rely
daughter began straightening her hair, and then I
on God’s Word to us. Inspired and reminded, I will go
began to rely on her. If I wanted straight hair, I would
forge into the Word myself and see what God has to
sit on the toilet seat and she would take care of me. I
say to me.
didn’t ask questions. I didn’t attempt it myself, but I
14 // April 2020
About The Author
for years. I even remember my first attempts, years
Denise Nelson lives in Ringgold, Georgia, with her husband, son, father, and grandfather.
Dalton Church Directory Assembly of God
Christian Fellowship Assembly 3656 Chattanooga Road, 30755 706-280-7594 The Sanctuary 515 Reed Rd NW, 30720 706-270-2088 The Impact 508 Sheridan Ave, 30721 706-226-7743
Baptist
Abundant Life Baptist Church 811 J and J, 30721 706-278-5289 Antioch Baptist Church 1205 Antioch Road, 30720 706-278-1305 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 Christ Reformed Baptist Church 1378 Dug Gap Rd, 30720 706-226-3026 Concord Baptist Church 1054 Hopewell Rd, Cohutta 30710 706-694-8618 Cove Baptist Fellowship Church 461 Carbondale Rd SW, 30721 706-277-3484 Crown View Baptist Church 502 West Tyler St, 30720 706-278-7422 Deep Springs Baptist Church 1660 Beaverdale Rd NE, 30721 706-259-3255 Dug Gap Baptist Church 2031 Dug Gap Rd, 30720 706-278-2377 Eastbrook Baptist Church 204 Hill Rd, 30720 Eastside Baptist Church 913 East Morris St, 30721 706-278-8553 Eleventh Avenue Baptist Church 2550 South Dalton Bypass, 30722 706-278-7020 Emmaus Baptist Church 4268 S. Dixie Rd, 30735 706-483-5251 First Baptist Church 802 Kenner St, 30721 706-226-9681 First Baptist Church of Dalton 311 North Thornton Ave, 30720 706-278-2911 Grace Baptist Church 2049 Lower Kings Bridge Rd, 30721 706-537-6884 Good Hope Baptist Church 2525 Lake Francis Rd, 30721 706-259-3719 Grove Level Baptist Church 2802 Cleveland Highway, 30721 706-259-8519 Good Samaritan Baptist Church 3137 Cleveland Rd, 30721 706-259-7239
16 // April 2020
Gospelway Baptist Church 336 Jupiter Cir, 30721 706-278-1424 Grace Baptist Church 2049 Lower Kings Bridge Rd, 30721 706-537-6884 Harmony Baptist Church 187 Lower Dawnville Rd, 30721 706-226-5521 Harvest Baptist Church 3986 Cleveland Hwy, 30721 706-694-8951 Hill Crest Baptist Church 1901 Cityview St, 30720 706-279-1267 Hopewell Baptist Church 3527 Airport Rd, 30721 706-226-5987 Kinsey Drive Baptist Church 2626 Kinsey Drive,30720 706-277-3505 Lakeshore Park Baptist Church 12 Crescent St, 30720 706-275-6050 Liberty Baptist Church 506 South Pentz St, 30720 706-226-5535 Lindsey Memorial Baptist 706-673-7650 3503 Lindsey Memorial Rd. Rocky Face, Ga. 30740 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 Hope Baptist Church 706-673-8050 2105 Tunnel Hill-Varnell Road Tunnel Hill, GA 30755 New Life Baptist Church 2620 Old Grade Rd, 30721 Northwest Georgia Baptist Church 222 North Pentz St, 30720 706-463-3490 Olivia Baptist Church 1817 Guy St, 30720 706-278-3507 Pine Grove Baptist Church 4004 Airport Road, 30721 706-264-8630 Poplar Springs Baptist Church 897 Poplar Springs Rd, 30720 706-259-8727 Reformation Baptist Church 825 Chattanooga Avenue, 30720 706-314-8711 Rocky Face Baptist Church 1544 Rocky Face Railroad St, 30740 706- 226-5751
Salem Baptist Church 1448 Pleasant Grove Dr, 30721 706-259-7045 South Dalton Baptist Church 498 Lakemont Drive, 30720 706-278-4946 Shiloh Baptist Church 2014 East Waugh St, 30721 706-226-5981 Temple Baptist Church 2310 South Dixie Hwy, 30720 706-226-6785 Valley Baptist Church 2907 Old Rome, 30720 Welcome Hill Baptist Church 2772 E Welcome Hill Circle, 30721 706-278-0368 Whitfield Baptist Church 2134 Dug Gap Rd, 30721 706-278-6776
Bible
Fellowship Bible Church 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
Church of Christ
Central Church of Christ 515 N. Tibbs Rd, 30720 706-278-8051 Riverbend Church of Christ 2218 S Riverbend Rd, 30721 706-226-0819
Church of God
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 3688 Chatsworth Hwy, 30721 706-226-6686 Crosspointe 2681 Underwood Street 30721 706-278-2649 Valley Brook Church of God 1474 Mineral Springs Rd, 30720 706-279-3296
Community
Church on the Hill 1035 Abutment Rd, 30721 706-278-9208 Community Fellowship Church 409 North Fredrick St, 30721 706-278-3204 Freedom Community Church 908 Elk Street, 30720 706-463-2690 Rock Bridge Community Church 121 W Crawford St, 30720
Episcopal
Saint Mark’s Episcopal Church
901 West Emory St, 30720 706-278-8857
Lutheran
Christ the King Lutheran Church 623 S Thornton Ave, 30720 706-278-3979
Methodist
Bethel AME Church 620 Spring Street, 30720 706-226-2714 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 Fairview UMC 735 Riverbend Rd, 30721 706-996-5057 Five Springs UMC 2823 Five Springs Rd, 30720 706-277-3928 Mineral Springs UMC 4079 Airport Road, 30721 706-517-0200 Mt. Vernon UMC 597 Lafayette Road Rocky Face, GA 30740 706-673-4667 New Haven UMC 4040 South Dixie Highway, 30721 706-217-1879 Pleasant Grove UMC 2701 Cleveland Highway, 30721 Sugar Valley UMC 503 Murry Hill Dr, 30720 706-280-9112 Trinity UMC 901 Veterans Dr, 30721 706-278-4042 Tunnel Hill UMC 706-673-4022 121 North Varnell Road Tunnel Hill, GA 30755 Varnell United Methodist Church 3485 Highway 2 Cohutta, 30710 706-694-8023 Wesley Chapel UMC 808 Jamestown CT, 30721 706-270-2331
Nazarene
First Church of the Nazarene 2325 Chattanooga Rd, 30720 706-278-8428 Grace Church of the Nazarene 1111 Nelson St, 30721 706-278-1171
Non-Denominational
Abundant Life Bible Church 120 East Morris Street, 30721 706-270-9733 Bridging the Gap Ministries 514 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, 30721 706-277-7575 Relentless Worship Center 210 Robinwood Dr, 30721 706-313-1129 Cornerstone Family Church
1240 Dawnville Rd, 30721 706-259-8509 Dalton House Of Prayer 735 Beaverdale Rd NE, 30721 706-280-0263 Good Neighbors Church 910 South Thornton Ave, 30720 706-226-0846 Gospel Light Tabernacle 804 Sheridan Ave, 30721 Grace Fellowship Ministries 620 N Glenwood Ave 2&3, 30721 706-280-1375 River of Life Church of Dalton 2919 East Walnut Ave, 30721
706-965-6683 Saint James Overcoming Church 400 North Fredrick St, 30721 706-278-0319
Pentecostal
Iglesia de Dios Pentecostal Fuente de Agua Viva 1007 Underwood St, 30721 706-278-4963 La Senda Antigua 308 East Matilda St, 30720 706-270-8826 True Gospel Pentecostal Church 109 South Henderson St, 30721 706-278-5696
Shadow Ridge Worship Center 122 Wheat Drive Varnell, GA 30721 706-280-4546
Presbyterian
ChristChurch Presbyterian 510 South Tibbs Rd, 30720 706-529-2911 First Presbyterian Church 101 S. Selvidge St, 30720 706-278-8161 Grace Presbyterian Church 2107 Threadmill Rd, 30720 706-226-6344
Salvation Army 1109 N. Thornton Ave, 30722 706-278-3966
Seventh Day Adventist
3 Angels Hispanic SDA 701 E Morris St, 30721 706-618-1182 Dalton Hispanic SDA 112 W Long St, 30720 706-275-0523 Dalton SDA Church 300 South Tibbs Rd, 30720 706-226-2166
Salvationalist
Chatsworth Church Directory Baptist
Blue Ridge Primitive Baptist Church 706-517-9849 134 Hyden Tyler Road Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Calvary Baptist Church 706-695-7747 Highway 225 North Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Center Hill Baptist Church 706-695-7988 65 Berry Bennett Road Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Cisco Baptist Church 706-695-9270 Highway 411 North Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Cool Springs Baptist Church 706-517-5388 Holly Creek Cool Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Fellowship Baptist Church 706-695-2626 4396 Highway 52 Chatsworth, GA 30705 US First Baptist Church 706-695-2112 121 West Market Street Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Flat Branch Baptist Church 706-695-2663 3443 Highway 286 Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Free Hope Baptist Church 706-695-3717 4176 Highway 76 Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Holly Creek Baptist Church 706-695-8522 422 Holly Creek Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Liberty Baptist Church 4221 US-76, Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Little Consauga Baptist Church 706-517-5733 1100 Sugar Creek Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Maranatha Baptist Church 706-695-6330 Highway 225 South Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Mount Pisgah Baptist Church
706-517-8944 2309 Old Highway 411 Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Murray Baptist Church 706-695-9712 508 West Peachtree Street Chatsworth, GA 30705 US New Hope Baptist Church 706-517-3089 1273 New Hope Road Chatsworth, GA 30705 US New Prospect Baptist Church 706-629-9521 7629 Highway 225 Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Old Fashion Baptist Church 706-695-5420 885 Ben Adams Road Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Open Air Ministries 706-386-484 1058 Mtn Crest Dr. Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Prayer Baptist Church 706-624-9216 10859 Hwy. 225 South Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Shinning Light Baptist Church 706-517-1739 801 North 5th Avenue Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Smyrna Baptist Church 706-695-5815 1913 Smyrna Church Road Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Spring Place Baptist Church 706-695-5532 441 Highway 225 South Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Strait Way Baptist Church 706-517-2861 508 West Peachtree Street Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Total Praise Baptist Church 706-695-6441 1461 Greeson Bend Rd, Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Zion Hill Baptist Church 706-517-5913 Highway 225 North Chatsworth, GA 30705 US
Bible
Grace Bible Church
2599 Leonard Bridge Rd. Chatsworth, GA 30705 US
Church of Christ
Woodhaven Church of Christ 706-847-7400 508 West Peachtree Street Chatsworth, GA 30705 US
Church of God
Chatsworth Church of God 706-695-9388 Highway 411 South Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Central Community Church 706-695-4242 60 Pine Hills Drive Chatsworth, GA 30705 Spring Place Church of God 706-695-8000 717 Tibbs Bridge Road Chatsworth, GA 30705 US
Full Gospel
Faith Worship Center 706-695-6866 189 Hyden Tyler Road Chatsworth GA 30705 House Of Prayer 616 Jenkins Road Chatsworth, GA 30705 US
Methodist
Casey Springs UMC 7250 Chastworth Highway South Chastworth, GA 30705 Center Valley UMC 706-971-4646 5394 Highway 225 North Chatsworth, GA 30705 US First United Methodist Church 706-695-3211 107 W Cherokee Street Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Fullers Chapel UMC 532 Cook Drive Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Mineral Springs UMC 71 North Way St Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Spring Place UMC 706-695-5143 Po Box 248 Chatsworth, GA 30705 US
Non-Denominational
God’s Light House 784 Smyrna Church Road Chatsworth, GA 30705 The Church of God of the Union Assembly at Chatsworth, GA 706-695-7335 Highway 52 Alternate Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Liberty Tabernacle 706-517-3140 2196 Smyrna Church Road Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Living Word Christian Fellowship 706-695-5005 960 Cherokee Drive Chatsworth, GA 30705 US New Beginnings Ministries 706-695-6067 646 Floodtown Road Chatsworth, GA 30705 US North Gate Church 706-548-4967 7727 Highway 225 South Chatsworth, GA 30755 US Tabernacle of Praise 706-517-0377 1435 Leonard Bridge Road Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Wings Of Faith Ministries 706-695-1527 1122 North Holly Drive Chatsworth, GA 30705 US
Pentecostal
Victory Tabernacle 706-517-1458 355 Ellijay Street Chatsworth, GA 30705 US A Place to Worship 706-517-8568 259 Old Landfill Rd Chatsworth, GA 30705 US
Presbyterian Sumach Presbyterian Church 706-695-4773 2089 Sumach Church Chatsworth, GA 30705 US
Seventh Day Adventist
Seventh-Day Adventist Church 706-517-5124 1115 Highway 52 Chatsworth, GA 30705 US
goodnewscm.com // 17
Gò0dNews for Parents
Encouragement For Parents
R
by Jennifer Hastings
ead this little poem, keeping your kiddos in mind.
giving our kids gifts than what we are teaching them.
As you read, be open to what stirs in your heart. Is
Are we caught in some invisible parent trap, one that
there a verse jumping off the page? Does one line
brainwashes intelligent adults into grading themselves by
make you proud as a peacock, whereas another makes you
delivering the best and most popular possessions to our
want to bury your head and beg for a parenting redo? Pray
children? I admit I feel this pressure the world places on
for God to show you what character trait your child needs
parents. Everything in our lives speaks to this narrative.
help developing.
From social media to every advertisement we see, it is there: the subtle message that you need this or that to be happy. Ever since I read this poem in November, though, I keep coming back to it, and it seems to ground me in what really matters. This poem convicted me and made me stop to ask, what if I were intentional about giving another kind of gift to my kids? What if I worked hard all year not to save money for Christmas presents, but to give gifts of encouragement, praise, and security? You know, the parenting stuff that really makes a difference. What about you? What do your kids need? As you read the poem, what came to your mind? Whatever came to your mind can be your parenting focus for the year. Just pick one thing to work on giving your child. You may
“Children learn what they live.” –Dorothy Law Nolte
have a grown-up child needing to hear you are proud of
If a child lives with criticism, he learns to condemn.
them. Maybe your adult baby needs encouragement about
If a child lives with hostility, he learns to fight.
how they are raising their own babies. I love how God
If a child lives with ridicule, he learns to be shy.
continues to woo us and work on our character. It makes
If a child lives with shame, he learns to feel guilty.
perfect sense that we should woo our own children and see
If a child lives with tolerance, he learns to be patient.
them for the adults they have the potential to become, not
If a child lives with encouragement, he learns confidence.
as they are now.
If a child lives with praise, he learns to appreciate.
As a child of God, God continually works to give you
If a child lives with fairness, he learns justice.
lasting gifts of character. God is dedicated to helping you
If a child lives with security, he learns to have faith.
become all He has created you to be. He has gifted you with
If a child lives with approval, he learns to like himself.
unique talents and gifts. God is presently wooing you and
If a child lives with acceptance and friendship, he learns
drawing you to a character that will last.
We will come back to the poem; let it settle over your soul. Sometimes I think we concern ourselves more with
18 // April 2020
About The Author
to find love in the world. Jennifer Hastings and her husband, Stewart live in Rocky Face with their three children. She works for Dalton Public Schools as a curriculum specialist. You can check out their blog at thatsthewayweseeit.com.
Church Activities & Events Harmony Baptist Church
Christ Church Presbyterian
Sunday, April 12 | 7AM (Outdoors) 187 Lower Dawnville Rd NE, Dalton GA 30721
Sunday, April 5th at 10:30AM 510 S. Tibbs Road Dalton, GA 30720
Holly Creek Baptist Church
Maundy Thursday Service
Friday, April 02th | 7PM In The CLC 422 Holly Creek Cool Springs Rd, Chatsworth, GA 30705
Thursday, April 9th at 7:30PM
Easter Sunrise Service
Easter Sunday Service
Easter Sunday - Sonrise Service
Good Friday Service
Sunday, April 12th | 7AM 422 Holly Creek Cool Springs Rd, Chatsworth, GA 30705
Palm Sunday Service
Thursday, April 9th at 6:30PM
24 Hour Prayer Vigil
Sunday, April 12th at 10:30AM
Ladies of Lee Leading Worship Sunday, April 19th at 10:30AM 510 S. Tibbs Road Dalton, GA 30720
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
What Can We Learn From Timothy?
I
by Rev. Wayne Williams n the Bible, “Timothy” in the original language was
name. However, given the prophecy that other “young
“Timotheus,” which means, “honor of God; valued
men” would also “see visions,” there must be something
of God.” With that being said, I want to ask you, my
else that helps us to understand the significance of this
friend, “What is it about you that honors God?” Is it
young man’s name. Notably, Paul also addresses a letter to
the exercising of your spiritual gift? Your “great” faith?
another young preacher by the name of Titus, whose name
Maybe it is your Christian service or commitment to the
means “pleasing.” (This is interesting, but not quite the topic
Christian lifestyle? Exactly what is it about you and me
of this writing.)
that honors God “the most?”
Friend, I am compelled to think that the message behind Timothy’s name rests solely upon the shoulders of his mother Eunice and his grandmother Lois. Whether the name was bestowed upon young Timothy at or before his birth or if it was granted to him as he became older, it was these two women, and I believe under divine inspiration, who named him. Consequently, when the Apostle speaks of “the unfeigned faith that is in thee, which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois, and thy mother Eunice; and I am persuaded that in thee also” (2 Timothy 1:5), Paul was readily addressing the significance of the women behind the man (boy). Men, what is it about you and me that is significant enough for our mother(s),
When we closely examine the life of the Timothy that
grandmother(s), or wife(ives) to name us (or address us
the Apostle Paul speaks of and addresses in the two epistles
with a particular name)? Eunice, quite likely in consultation
that bear the young protégé’s name in the New Testament,
with Timothy’s grandmother, Lois, chose to name or call
we may be able to better comprehend how it is that this
this young boy “Timotheus” because she believed her
young upstart captured the Apostle’s interest and captivates
faithfulness to God and his faithfulness of the same would
our intrigue even to today.
make him a valuable asset to God. Small wonder the Apostle
True, Timothy was a “young” man, but I am not so sure
admonished the young man to “stir up the gift within him.”
that this was the one, sole thing that makes him notable and
Why? Because what Timothy had to offer to the world was
“valued of God.” The prophet Joel records that in the latter
so needful and, if imparted, would be equally impactful!
days, “God will pour out [His] Spirit on all kinds of people.
Men, the meaning of and behind your name is
Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your old men will
significant. Yet questions remain: namely, “What have you
dream dreams, and your young men will see visions” (Joel
done or what will you do to live up to your name?” Shalom!
fitness for duty” that explains the meaning behind this
20 // April 2020
About The Author
2:28). Given his youthfulness, perhaps it was his “physical
Rev. Wayne Williams, PhD, presently serves as supply pastor for the historic First United Presbyterian Church of Athens, Tennessee. He and his wife of 38 years, Lita, are heavily involved in numerous church and community activities.
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Gò0dNews for Life
Don’t Take Your Organs To Heaven
W
by Tammy Madden
hen you hear the doctor say, “She won’t live
way in the seashells and sand. We have been able to see her
without a new heart,” how does one process
dress up for her first dance and dance the night away even
those words? You can’t. Not without God. You
though she must use her walker. Next year, we will watch
get on your knees and you pray. You pray hard. Two states
in amazement as she walks across that stage to get her high
away, there is a baby on life support with a brain injury so
school diploma while our eyes fill with tears of happiness.
bad there is no life left in him. The doctors tell his parents,
Through everything we have been blessed with from
“He’s no longer here.” We are keeping him alive with our
her new heart, the most precious thing we have witnessed is
machines. Then the transplant team comes in and asks
the day we met her donor family. Her donor’s mom walked
the hardest question they will ever hear: “Would you like to donate his organs?” There are children waiting for hearts, lungs, kidneys…What does that family do? They have to give it to God too. What does one do in each of these cases? We all pray. Let me tell you from our end. Our own daughter was a heart recipient. Seventeen years ago, we had to decide if it was something God would want. We prayed, and we believed organ donation was the way to go. With two hours left to live, our daughter’s heart came in. With that being said, let me just say that without that heart, we would have never been granted these past beautiful 17 years. We have raised her in church. We have watched her
into our house, and at this point, Megan refused to let
learn to sing praises to our Heavenly Father. We have
anyone touch her but me. She was still a baby. But not this
watched as she swam with dolphins. We have watched
beautiful woman: the minute she reached for Megan, she
as she took Cinderella by the hand and danced at Disney
practically jumped into her arms! She told us later that when
World: not once but twice so far. We have watched her
she told her preacher about how Megan came right to her,
touch lives with her testimony and bring people to the Lord.
her preacher said, “You know, Sarah, you have held that
We have watched her eyes light up as the plane took off for
little heart in your arms many times!” What a blessing organ
her first flight ever! We have watched her start kindergarten
donation became that day: not just on our side but, I believe,
and held her while she cried that first day, and this year, as
on theirs, too. They know their son will live on in our baby
she entered her junior year, even as a special needs child, the
girl. I just hope we can make him proud. So in this month
tables turned; she held me this time while I cried watching
of honoring Organ Donation, I ask you, please, “Don’t take
her grow up.
your organs to Heaven; Heaven knows we need them here.”
We have watched her get to go to Gatlinburg, Tennessee, hold her hands and walk along the beach and see her smile in wonder as she found many of God’s blessings along the
22 // April 2020
About The Author
and enjoy all the sights and rides there. We have gotten to Tammy Madden is the proud mother of Megan Madden, who received a heart transplant on 03/07/03.
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Gò0dNews for Teens
You Have A Purpose
S
by Bridget Gray
pring has officially sprung (finally!), and high school
your life. Think about the things you love. Think about your
seniors all over the country are moving closer to
skills, your strengths, your talents. God gave those to you
the day they’ve been counting down to for the past
for a reason. He didn’t give us all the same gifts, so don’t
four years. For them, this day cannot seem to get here fast
ever feel like you have to go with the flow. Don’t fall into
enough. For their parents, this day is arriving too quickly.
the trap of comparison and feel like you don’t measure up.
In just over a month, high school seniors will don their caps and gowns, the high school band will strike up the sounds of “Pomp and Circumstance,” mamas will cry buckets of tears, dads will fuss over the camera…Folks, it’s almost High School Graduation Day. My own high school graduation was just a little over 20 years ago. As I recall that time, I can’t help but think, “If I knew then what I know now…” I think about the life lessons I’ve learned in all the years since I walked down the halls of my own high school. Would the teen years have been any smoother or easier? If I had had a little peek into
Don’t take a certain path in life because it seems like the
the future, would it have mattered? If I may, here is just one
easiest or the most sensible.
thing I would tell a soon-to-be-graduate. Each and every one of you has a God-given purpose in
What is it that you’re passionate about? What gets you excited and makes you want to dive in 100%? Take that
this life. You do. Not only do you have a purpose, but you
and treasure it, mold it, and develop it. Work on it, parlay
have a God-given purpose specifically given to YOU. The
it into your education or career, and you will be starting
Lord tells us in Jeremiah 1:5, “I knew you before I formed
out on a solid foundation. The end of that verse says He
you in your mother’s womb. Before you were born I set you
has “appointed you as a prophet to the nations.” There’s a
apart and appointed you as my prophet to the nations.” He
reason for your gift, for your talent, for your interests! There
formed and molded each and every one of us for a purpose
is a reason and a purpose for YOU. Cling to the Lord and He
and has given us gifts to fulfill that purpose.
will guide you to your purpose—His purpose.
So what does that mean to a high school graduate? figured out just what you want to do with your life yet (and that’s okay), don’t ever think that there isn’t a purpose to
24 // April 2020
About The Author
It means that even if you don’t see it, even if you haven’t Bridget Gray is a native Roman & received her BA in English from the University of West Georgia in 2002. A self-professed “book nerd”, Bridget enjoys roaming through Barnes & Noble in her rare free time. Bridget & her family (husband Jarrett & daughters Carter & Avery) attend LIFE Church.
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1st Franklin Financial: A Personal Loan Company That Puts People First
1
st Franklin Financial Corporation has been
remains family-owned and operated, staying true to
making loans for more than 79 years, and
its values while growing in loans-made and dollars-
whether the need for extra money is an urgent
loaned year after year. This long-term success is
one for today or one that’s ahead, 1st Franklin is there
attributed in 1st Franklin Financial’s strong foundation
when you need them.
and commitment to the communities it serves along
“Whatever your needs are, we are here to work with you to find the right loan with a payment plan
with its unwavering financial stability. 1st Franklin Financial has served in this area of
that fits your life. Life is a journey and we are here to
North Georgia for more than 30 years. Chatsworth,
do it side by side with you,” said President and CEO
Dalton and Fort Oglethorpe branches are currently
Ginger Herring. “We will treat you with respect and
operating under the leadership of Regional Operations
promise to give you the kind of personal, friendly
Director Kim Golka and Operations Vice President
service you won’t find anywhere else.”
Jennifer Purser.
Headquartered in Toccoa, Georgia, the business
The Chatsworth branch opened in 1988 and is
operates more than 320 branch loan offices located
located at 1422 Green Road; phone 706-695-4823. The
in Alabama, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, South
Branch Manager is Jan Cross. Cross has been with the
Carolina and Tennessee. Founded by Herring’s
company since 2011. She started her career with 1st
grandfather, Ben F. Cheek, Jr., in 1941, the company
Franklin at the Dalton branch.
26 // April 2020
The Dalton branch opened in 1995 and is located at 514 Fleming Street, Suite 4; phone 706-226-7417. The Branch Manager is Mandy McClain. McClain has been with the company since 2002, and under her management, the Dalton branch won 1st Franklin Financial’s Vice President’s Award for outstanding performance and the Diamond Pacesetter Award for 2018. The Diamond Pacesetter Award is given every year to the branch that also achieves high statistical rankings in the company based on current performance as well as future profitability. The Fort Oglethorpe branch opened in 2013 and is
personalized service. The company offers fixed rate
located at 890 Battlefield Pkwy; phone 706-866-5557.
loans from $1,250 to $15,000* with flexible terms to suit
The Branch Manager is Kimberly Stone. Stone has been
any budget. Customers are more than a credit score. Even
with the company since 2014. All three branches are highly immersed in their
with an imperfect history, 1st Franklin works to find
communities, participating as active members of the
the right loan solution that’s right for each customer.
Chamber of Commerce and supporting local schools.
Approvals are fast and done right at the branch so
Affectionately known as the “friendly Franklin
customers can get their money quickly, often in the
folks,” 1st Franklin’s employees aim to make lasting
same day.
connections within the community and with every
partners, each branch has dealer relationships
individual that walks through their doors.
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Three convenient locatons to se goodnewscm.com // 27
Gò0dNews for Everyone
Tweet This, Facebook That
W
by Tommy Deal
hat is my life worth? Is it all based on the
Some of this is to be expected during an election year. I
perception of “friends” who read my posts
joined Facebook some years ago and wondered about this
on Facebook? Do I need to be sure they know
then. In fact, reading some of the posts then influenced my
how I really feel about my Lord or politics? And what if I
stating my political views in statuses as the old Nike brand’s
don’t “copy and paste” into my status to prove my love and
“Just Do It.” Yes, I am concerned about our nation and who
submission to God?
is leading it, but short of a new revolution, I’m not sure
I find it interesting to read posts on Facebook these
much will change. I am more convinced that expressing my
days. Yes, there are friends whom I envy because of the lives
opinions on Facebook will not actually influence a change. I
of leisure they are now able to live (or that’s all they choose
suspect, too, that whatever I choose to express will put me in the “de-friend” category from some of my closest Facebook friends. So why risk it? I’ve just found a bunch of them after many years of separation, and I rather enjoy catching up! On the other hand, Twitter keeps life simpler: or shorter, as the case may be. If I “tweet,” I used to be limited to 140 characters. I couldn’t even finish this paragraph with that limitation. I would rather live my life attempting to please the Lord, and to do that, I don’t need Facebook, Twitter, or email. (Although many times I wish He would send my answer this way.) I don’t need current technology to report to Him
to post about). There are those who pass along helpful
my downfalls—He sees all and knows all. I don’t need to
posts and links from renowned authors. Friends let me
report to Him that I agree with or disagree with the current
know about the significant life milestones going on. I read
popular “right” way of thinking. What I suspect I DO need
and cherish each one: really, I do. There is also a myriad of
to do is treat every person I meet with respect, dignity,
political and pseudo-spiritual diatribes being espoused as
and love. They need to see and hear Christ living through
well. While I support the right of everyone to have feelings,
me. “They’ll know we are Christians by our love.” “A new
thoughts, and opinions about the happenings of our world,
command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved
I am growing weary of posts which feign the sickness of
you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will
one political party or philosophy over another; the “we are
know that you are my disciples, if you love one another”
better than you are” mentality of one thought process over
(John 13:34-35).
mentality if you support the other candidate or position.
28 // April 2020
About The Author
another; and the “world is going to hell in a handbasket”
Rev. Tommy Deal is a hospice Chaplain with Hamilton Healthcare System in Dalton, Georgia. His wife, Rev. Susan Deal, is minister of music and worship at Dalton’s First Baptist Church. They are parents to two sons, grandparents to twin girls and anticipating a new grand around Christmas of this year.
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
Destiny?
Y
by C.L. Watkins
ou are not here by chance but by God’s amazing
We can have the same power as Jesus did here on
grace. He hand-formed you and made you the
Earth. He still has the same power in Heaven and earth.
person you are today. He will never compare
Acts 1:8: “But ye shall receive power, after that the
you to anyone else. In His eyes, you are one of a kind.
Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses
He shows us that we all have a purpose and gives us an
unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in
amazing destiny.
Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the Earth.”
Ecclesiastes 3:1: “To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven.” That tells us that we are very important to God. He sent His only Son to give us everlasting life. Jesus chose to hang on the cross and gave His life for You and me. Matthew 10:38: “And he that taketh not his cross, and followeth after me, is not worthy of me.” That’s as simple as it reads: we can follow Jesus just as the disciples did when He was here on earth teaching and working for His Father. Matthew 4:19: “And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.”
I believe in you, and so does God. Have faith in God
We all need to follow the Lord’s guidance, and He
and believe upon His name. You can have the everlasting
will help us to maintain in the right direction. If you ask Jesus into your heart, He will forgive you of your sins. Romans 10:9: “That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.” Romans 10:10: “For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.” Oh, what a true friend we have in Jesus. He’ll never
life that He freely gives. John 3:16: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” Romans 15:13: “Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost.” Today, take time to immerse yourself in God’s word, and pray and fast because He cares for you.
can step into a new day, move forward, and not look back.
30 // April 2020
About The Author
leave us, and He’ll never forsake us. He gives us life, and we Rev. C.L. Watkins resides in Lafayette, Georgia, he and his wife Beatrice attend Gospel Light Tabernacle in Dalton, GA.
Gò0dNews for Couples
Couples Who Pray Together Will Stay Together!
W
by Laura Perdue
hen I was asked to write and article, my heart
Ask yourself, when was the last time that you took
was sold on writing about prayer in our
your spouse’s hand and you guys prayed together for
marriages. The Lord sure has a sense of humor
protection over your home, your children, and your jobs?
sometimes when He reveals things to me and gives me
If it has been a while, I would start today because your
direction for what I am to write for that month.
marriage needs covering!
This month I felt it so heavy that I needed to write on the power of prayer in our marriages because the enemy is
I know every morning before my husband goes to work, he comes in, kneels by the bed, and prays for our unborn
seeking out marriages and wants to destroy them! Instead of our celebrating being one in our marriages, he would love to make you see that being single and apart is so much better. If you’ve been dealing with challenging issues in your marriage for a while, it may seem like your relationship will never change. But don’t let your frustration get the best of you. While your and your spouse’s own efforts to change may fail, God will change your marriage if you pray. Prayer
son and our home. I believe it is something that sets my day
has the power to accomplish what nothing else can.
in motion and puts angels in charge over me, and it is so
I am not saying I see prayer as a magic pill, and it’s certainly not a demand, but when we yield our hearts to the Lord in prayer, when we are open and vulnerable, He begins to change us. And when we begin to change—
reassuring to know that my partner loves me enough to stop his day to care for my spiritual needs and well-being. It is time we need to put prayer back in our homes. Why? It is simple—because marriage matters!
circumstances also begin to change.
32 // April 2020
About The Author
whether it’s our attitudes, our actions, or our outlook—our My name is Laura Perdue and I am married to my best friend, Brian Perdue. God has truly blessed us both and I could not imagine life without my prince, My promise. Brian and I reside in Marietta Georgia and serve on the ministry team of Fivestones Church in Canton, Ga.
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Gò0dNews Business Spotlight
W
City Florist & Gifts hen folks in Murray County need someone
Each year City Florist hosts a Christmas Open House.
to create the perfect flower arrangement,
This annual event is a wonderful time to share all the
design a joyful Christmas tree, or decorate
latest colors and designs that make Christmas special
for an elegant wedding, they reach out to Mickey Sanford
for each family. He enjoys displaying the new and
and his wonderful staff at City Florist of Chatsworth.
contemporary designs. He has several trees decorated
At a young age, Mickey knew he had an innate gift with
from top to bottom with garland, ornaments, and
colors and design. Mickey began working in the floral
ribbons. Along with the contemporary décor, Mickey
business in his early
loves to design more
20’s, and he eventually
traditional Christmas
purchased City Florist
trees and decorations.
in 1989.
Customers who attend
Mickey graduated
the Christmas Open
from Murray High in
House get to purchase
1979, and he has spent
new things for their
his entire career serving
own Christmas
the people of Murray
celebrations, but while
and surrounding
they shop, they enjoy
areas creating floral
yummy Christmas
arrangements for
treats, such as: punch,
funerals, weddings,
candies, cookies,
and home décor. He
and chocolate
also knows how to
covered pecans.
create the perfect “I
Mickey says,
love you” gifts and arrangements for spouses, children, and
“Flowers say what words can’t.” He loves to share the
friends. Mickey and his staff can create “Thinking of You”
joys with families when they are preparing for a wedding
arrangements and gifts that say get well, happy birthday, or
or adding a new baby in a family. He enjoys the smiles
I miss you. Of course, school dances, proms, and Valentines
of patients when delivering flowers to hospital, so people
Day celebrations are among the busiest times of the year for
know others are praying for them. He is thankful that he
flower arrangements.
can also create arrangements for families who are bereaved
City Florist was recognized in March by the Murray County Chamber of Commerce as the 2019 Business of the
and hopes that the flowers bring a little peace is the toughest times in life.”
Year. Mickey and his staff are very honored to be recognized
The City Florist
for their hard work and their contribution to the community.
staff includes: Mickey
Mickey’s favorite season of the year is Fall. As the
Sanford, Donna Frost,
trees make their autumn transformation, he loves to fill the
Debra Satterfield, Greg
store with pumpkins, scarecrows, and sunflowers. Fresh
jones, Sonja Pritchett,
fragrances from pumpkin spice candles and potpourri fill
Billy Sanford, and other
the air. Halloween and Thanksgiving displays create a cozy
holiday helpers who help
ambiance to get everyone in the festive spirit.
as needed. They are all thankful for the citizens of Murray
34 // April 2020
County and their patronage through out the years.
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
Strength
W
by Karen D. Jeffery
e all desire and need strength. Without
We are only as strong as we are united and weak as we
guidance, that puts us all at risk of failing, but
are divided. But together, we can be like David. 1 Samuel
we need to understand that we need braveness,
tells us about that wonderful story of a mighty, courageous
and that’s not the absence of fear: it’s the added strength to
young man that was very brave and had unbelievable
keep going forth despite that fear that comes upon you.
strength. With just one smooth stone out of the five he
Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things though Christ
picked up from out of the brook, he was able to bring
which strengthens me.”
Goliath down with just one single shot.
Be sure you put your feet in the right place, hold fast, and stand tall. Out of the depths of our heart, strength will be made possible. 1 Corinthians 16:13-14: “Watch ye, stand fast in faith, quit you like men, be strong. Let all your things be done with Charity.” The saying is true that you never know how strong you have to be until you have no choice. We can count on courage and the Father above to give us grace in those times of pressure. We know that pressure makes beautiful diamonds. A diamond is the strongest stone and also the most precious because of its indestructibility. We are like diamonds to God. He gives us added strength. Deuteronomy 31:6: “Be strong and of a good
David told that giant, “Thou comest to me with a sword, and with a spear, and with a shield: but I come to thee in the
courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the Lord thy
name of the LORD of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel,
God, he it is that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee,
whom thou hast defied.” The Lord gave David strength to
nor forsake thee.”
do what everyone thought was impossible.
We can find great strength when we put our muscles into it. We become stronger and find that inside ourselves, we can face those challenges in life and
Luke 1:37: “For with God nothing shall be impossible.” Make it a plan to pray for added strength and for healing in your body. The Lord will meet you there.
become more resilient. heart trusted in him, and I am helped: therefore my heart greatly rejoiceth; and with my song will I praise him.”
36 // April 2020
About The Author
Psalm 28:7: “The Lord is my strength and my shield; my Karen D. Jeffery loves the Heavenly Father, her family, and her church. Keep looking up Jesus is coming soon.
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
A Real Work Of Art
H
by Earl Brackin
anging in the Louvre museum is probably
work on us. He spent only six days bringing this world
the world’s most famous painting. The Mona
into being, yet He spends a lifetime refining us. I don’t
Lisa has captivated artists as well as the
think it’s because we are so difficult or imperfect.
common person for many centuries. It was stolen in
Could it be that we are His favorite subject? Could it
1911, recovered two years later, and then returned
be that He enjoys the time spent on us and being with
after a tour of Italy. During a six-week stay at the
us? After all, we are His masterpiece.
Metropolitan Art Museum in NYC, it drew 40,000 viewers per day. While the subject in the painting has
Da Vinci could have created his masterpiece on the finest canvas of his day. Yet the Mona Lisa is painted
been debated, the artist is clearly evident. Begun in 1503, Leonardo da Vinci worked on it intermittently for many years. It was found in his studio when he died. Ephesians 2:10 says, “We are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works which he prepared in advance for us to do.” The word “workmanship” comes from the Greek word poiema. It can also be translated as “artwork.” What a thought: that you are God’s work of art, His masterpiece, His cherished creation. As a musician, I understand that artists 1) draw pleasure from their artwork and 2) want
on a piece of poplar wood. Do you feel inadequate?
to display it. I am convinced that the same is true of
Do you feel too imperfect to display His work? If the
our Father God, our Creator. Each person is not only
talented but human Da Vinci could transform a piece
created by Him but made to look like Him and reflect
of common wood into one of the greatest paintings
Him and His image. It gives Him great pleasure to
the world has ever known, imagine what the God of
dream of how He will use us. He delights in putting
all creation can do with you! You are His masterpiece.
us on display. How glorified He must feel when the
Enjoy Him as He enjoys working on you. Who knows
world looks at us and sees Him! And that’s the point.
where He will choose to display you?
We are created to reflect to the world the heart of God. Mona Lisa, I was reminded that God continues to
38 // April 2020
About The Author
As I read that da Vinci continued to work on the Earl Brackin is the Minister of Worship at Church on the Hill in Dalton, Georgia. He and his wife Lisa have three children and 5 grandchildren. You can hear his music at earlbrackinmusic.com.
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
I
Good News for Victims
heard a sermon recently on being ‘open’ in 2020. Open to moves of God, open heavens, open mouths to speak the Gospel boldly… I focused on what I personally needed to be open to: darkness. I don’t mean embrace sin or loosen my morals; I mean face head on the darkness of my past. I need to be open to walk through hard things in the light of Christ. Seeking healing for traumatic experiences is like walking through the valley of the shadow of death, except this valley is in your own mind as you work through the painful memories and thought patterns that come from surviving abuse. But we have hope because The Shepherd is with us. He will make us to lie down in green pastures. His goodness and mercy pursue us in this valley. His Word is a lamp to our feet as we walk the path of courage and healing. I’ve heard it likened to a broken wrist that was never properly set. Sure, the break has mended; but you have lost the movement a healed bone should have and it always lends itself to other problems and limitations. Even though you can’t play sports the same way, you convince yourself that you never really liked tennis anyway. The only way to get the fullness of movement back in your wrist is to have it re-broken and properly set. It requires surgery, casts, and weeks of physical therapy to retrain your body where it has been operating through coping mechanisms for years. Trauma therapy is like that. You think it would be best to just leave well enough alone. You convince yourself that you’re not affected by the trauma. It wasn’t really that bad anyway… It only happened that once… I don’t want to stir up trouble… But the best thing to do to walk in true liberty is to face the past. The depravity of sexual abuse is something you never want to look in the face of, but there is so much hope. I know because I am a victim of childhood sexual abuse and I have hope. Looking into that darkness is something I have been hesitant to do for over a decade. Afraid I would be overcome, I did my best to avoid the memories and belittle my experience. But we have hope because Jesus is the Light of the world. “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it” ( John 1:5). Even the darkest of stories will never overcome the power of the Gospel. I was afraid the places in my mind that I needed to visit would be too dark and too far for God to reach. “Where can I go
40 // April 2020
from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? If I say, “Surely the darkness will hide me and the light become night around me,” even the darkness will not be dark to you; the night will shine like the day, for darkness is as light to you” (Psalm 139:7,11-12). It is a soul marring experience to have your innocence stolen. You feel worthless and defeated. But we have hope because God is our Rock, our Fortress, our Shield, and our Refuge (Psalm 18). Those names for the Father never meant much to me until I realized how much I needed His refuge
and firm foundation when delving into a painful past and how it has shaped me. I never knew I needed His shield until I was inundated with traumatic memories and overwhelming fears. Psalm 18 also says God protects us from our enemies. But we have hope because God doesn’t stop there. “I crushed [my enemies] so that they could not rise; they fell beneath my feet. You armed me with strength for battle; you humbled my adversaries before me” (Psalm 18:38-39). He makes us victorious over those that desire to conquer us. He makes us victorious over the sinful actions that meant to destroy us. He does all this because “he rescued me because he delighted in me” (19b). The road of healing is incredibly difficult. It’s one I wish I never needed to walk. But to walk this closely with my Father who cares for me and is faithful to restore my soul is a most precious gift. To see Him the way I do as I’m currently finding healing every day from the trauma of my childhood is like nothing I’ve ever experienced in my walk of faith before. His gentleness and jealousy are so apparent. He sees the darkness of our lives and will not allow us to be destroyed. He makes us more than conquerors through Christ Jesus who loves us.
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Gò0dNews for your Taste Buds
Chocolate Oatmeal Cookies
S
by Deana Thompson
pring is an exciting time of the year. The weather begins to warm up, and we start to shed our winter coats and hats. Baby animals are being born, both in the wild (like the baby birds in our bluebird house) and on the farm (like our cute baby goats). It is a time to celebrate the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ, for because He lives, we “will live also” (John 14:19). Yet the one thing most associated with spring is its floral display. Blooms of all colors, shapes, and sizes explode on our planet, blanketing the earth with a beautiful palette of color. And at our house, millions of bees fly out of their hives to visit each bloom and transform its nectar into honey. They can travel up to 6 miles away from their hives for one drop of nectar, and it takes about 20,000 drops of nectar to make one quart of honey! This golden liquid is sweeter than the white, refined sugar used to sweeten cakes, cookies, and candies. Yet the Psalmist declared that God’s laws and commands were sweeter to him than even honey (Psalm19:10). God’s laws are for our good, not to hamper our style or hinder our rise in success but to give us boundaries that will keep us safe and in His care. His plans for you are “to give you hope and a future” (Jeremiah 29:11). So as you make this honey version of the famous chocolate no-bake cookies, remember to view God’s laws as something good and sweet. And remember the little bee that flew many miles to contribute to your 1¼ cup of honey! 42 // April 2020
Ingredients
• ½ c. unsalted butter • 1¼ c. honey
• 1/3 c. unsweetened cocoa • 1 tsp. pure vanilla • ½ c. creamy peanut butter • 3¼ c. old-fashioned rolled oats
Instructions
1. In a large saucepan, combine butter, honey, and cocoa. Bring to a rolling boil and boil 1½ minutes. Remove from heat. 2. Add vanilla and peanut butter. Stir until peanut butter is melted. 3. Add oats; stir until well combined. 4. Using a spoon, drop the dough onto waxed paper. Let cool.
Variations
Nutty | Add ¼ c. pecans with the oats.
Peppermint | Add ¼ tsp. peppermint extract with the vanilla. Orange | Add 1/8 tsp. orange extract with the vanilla.
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Gò0dNews from the Physician’s Desk
Anna Shaw Children’s Institute Receives Award
T
Anna Shaw Children’s Institute recently received the highest award for architectural design at the 2019 Healthcare Design Showcase hosted by Healthcare Design Magazine.
he Institute, which opened April 1, was designed by Earl Swensson Associates (ESA). Dedicated to the memory of local philanthropist Anna Sue Shaw, the Institute is an advocate for the care of children who experience the challenges of autism spectrum disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, or developmental delays. Children and families are able to receive diagnoses, treatment, therapy services, and support under one roof.
Photo Credit: Chad Mellon
“We absolutely love our building,” said Terri Woodruff, Anna Shaw Children’s Institute executive director. “The medical elements are hidden in the forest design so that, to the children, it looks like a treehouse in the forest. Children walk in and begin playing and exploring. They are calm and playful. The anxieties that can occur at a typical doctor’s office are just not present.” With design elements inspired by the style of a treehouse, the Institute was designed to be considerate of children’s differing abilities to tolerate light, sound, and texture. The Institute provides a unique environment with the overall goal of helping children and families live happy, healthy lives. Read Around the Tree Each Wednesday at 11 a.m. at Anna Shaw Children’s Institute, a volunteer reads books to children and leads a
44 // April 2020
craft. All craft supplies are provided free of charge. Join us around the base of the tree in the first-floor main lobby. All children are welcome! Parent Support Group All parents, grandparents, guardians, and other family members of children with special needs are invited to take part in a parent-led Parent Support Group held on the second Tuesday of each month, beginning at 6:30 p.m. The group meets in the Southern Magnolia room on the first floor of Anna Shaw Children’s Institute. Free childcare, pizza, drinks, and a fun activity are provided. Please RSVP to 706.226.8911. C.H.A.M.P. Classes Anna Shaw Children’s Institute offers free CHAMP classes on the first Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m. CHAMP stands for “Classes to Help, Advise, and Motivate Parents.” The classes feature a different topic each month and are held in the Southern Magnolia room on the first floor of the Institute. Please RSVP to 706.226.8911. Limited childcare for children ages 12 and under is available. Anna Shaw Children’s Institute at Hamilton Medical Center 706.226.8900 HamiltonHealth.com/children 1201 Burleyson Road Dalton, Georgia
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
Words Count
M
by Rhonda Lane
y first encounter with the Word software
“That sweet man?!” she asked as we fell into an
program was when I began to write for this
embrace, screaming aloud our emotions in the middle
great little magazine you are now holding.
of the emergency room. When the embrace was finally
Being a Baby Boomer who literally learned to type on a
broken, she looked me right in the eye and said, “He was
manual typewriter, the program held all types of surprises,
a smart man, and that’s why you’re smart.” Many would
including different fonts, formatting, and best of all, “word
argue with that assessment of my own intelligence, but
counts.” The software counts the number of words in any
those words were planted deep in my heart to bloom on
given article instead of my having to resort to using all my
my rainy days of the soul.
fingers and toes. “Word counts” was an eye-opening discovery, but if you twist that phrase a bit into “words count,” you get a life-changing revelation. Shortly after my parents both died in rapid succession, I had a first encounter with a man whom my father had mentored for more than 40 years. I cannot remember any condolences being offered, but I do remember his seemingly well-rehearsed verbal list of faults he perceived in both my parents, including some question of intelligence. This verbal recitation was no accident, as he preceded it with some sort of warning, which I cannot exactly remember, implying that I would not like what he was about to say as he unburdened himself of his perceptions. He delivered it with relish and a grin of
We were joined by her aunt, Vivian Turner, who is
satisfaction on his face that could make one wish to never
another dear friend. They sat with me, content with words
smile again. While not suicidal, I had lost any ambition to live
or with silence as we sat with my father who was already
at that point, and his words could have sent someone of lesser
present with the Lord.
faith over the edge. The cloud of these words has crossed my skies on many, many lonely days since. In stark contrast was another encounter I experienced
While we do not literally have to count the words we speak to our fellow man, we should always measure them because their depth and breadth can span a lifetime,
on the morning that my father was taken to the hospital. I
whether for the good or the bad. “A word fitly spoken is like
called my best friend, Susan Edwards, and quickly told her
apples of gold in pictures of silver” (Proverbs 25:11).
what had happened. She immediately asked me if I wanted me in hand, fearing that I had had none. Her first words were to ask about his condition. I replied, “He’s gone.”
46 // April 2020
About The Author
her to come to the hospital. She arrived with breakfast for Rhonda Lane is a native of Dalton, Georgia, and is an orphaned, old maid, and only child trying to find her way in the world and lose herself in Jesus Christ.
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
Springtime in the Heart oses are red, Violets are blue, Spring has come, Now all I need is you. At least that’s the closest I can remember the poem after it was translated from Russian into English. I was a young, single pastor holding evangelistic meetings in Siberia not long after the fall of the USSR. Twice a day the largest theater in town was packed with individuals anxious to hear the Word of God! Many of them had lived their whole lives under the oppressive thumb of Communism. Tears flowed down their cheeks as we gave them the first Bible they’d ever owned, and they hugged it close to their chest. What a joy it was to see the gospel of salvation through faith in Jesus give them the heart’s ultimate freedom! Many of those who came to our meetings were young people. It probably didn’t hurt that my team of Americans were mostly young students themselves! In those desperate times one of the best ways for a young Russian to find their way out of the depressing future they faced was to marry a westerner. So, in the question box the notes went. Along with the hundreds of legitimate Bible questions we would find assorted such lovely notes. Sometimes they would be anonymous, but other times they would be signed with details such as “Olga, Row C, Seat 26.” Then I’d have to go early to the empty theater to make sure and identify which section I should avoid looking at during my appeals! Perhaps it’s the creativity, or the fact that it employed a poetic phrase familiar in English; but for some reason this note has stuck in my mind. I don’t remember the young lady, or if I even identified her. I have no idea where she’s at today or what turns her life may have taken. But in my mind she’s become a symbol of all of us – and the love that we all need.
48 // April 2020
You see, I’m convinced that all of us – Americans, Russians, rich, poor, black, white, or otherwise – were created in God’s image with the capacity of and purpose for relationship. And most importantly we were created to be in relationship with God. “He has put eternity in their hearts,” Solomon wrote in Ecclesiastes 3:11. Like the brown, leafless trees of winter are created for the saps of spring – and respond with leaves and fruit and blessings for countless creatures – so our human hearts, cold and empty and lonely, were created to be permeated with God’s love. Living in relationship with God is the ultimate fulfillment of life’s purpose and the only way to be maximally happy, productive, and useful. “You will show me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; At Your right hand are pleasures forevermore” Psalm 16:11. The good news of the gospel tells us, furthermore, that the God of the universe is madly in love with us and desperately desires to fill us with his love, joy, peace, and happiness that alone can satisfy the soul! I don’t travel internationally much anymore. It’s been a decade or more since I last visited Russia. But every year I see the trees and flowers of spring and I’m reminded of how beautiful God’s creation is, even damaged by sin. And sometimes Spring reminds me of that handwritten Cyrillic note. From the daffodils and dogwoods and maples, my eyes turn heavenward with the prayer, Roses are red, Violets are blue, Spring has come, Now all I need is You.
About The Author
R
by Chester V. Clark III
Chester Clark III is Senior Pastor of the Dalton Seventh-day Adventist Church. He has had the joy of sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ in more than fifty countries, and now enjoys living in Dalton with his wife Jane and daughter Ella.
Protecting Where You Live And Worship Al Smith
300 W. Emery St. Ste. 105 Dalton, GA 30720 (706) 529-6786 fsmith@alfains.com
Gò0dNews for Everyone
Suffering Soldiers
I
by Cheryl King
n the Bible it says that Jesus returns with an army riding
Suffering can make us a victim who wallows in the
on white horses, but that doesn't mean He hasn't an army
"Woe is me" camp, or suffering can make us a soldier.
of soldiers here right now.
Victims who wallow cannot inspire or give hope to others
This army, I believe, is His suffering soldiers. He
who suffer. Before you can show others God's grace, mercy,
recruits this army from those who have suffered in the past
and hope, you must embrace it yourself.
and from those who are suffering everyday and can still say,
We cannot become His soldiers until we release all
"God is good. He is faithful and loving. He gives me hope
bitterness over our sufferings. Freedom only comes through
and a future."
forgiving our transgressors, whoever or whatever that may be, and forgiving ourselves. Forgiveness and accepting what we cannot change is hard, but never impossible. The hard things we are called to do in life are the very things that mature us in our faith and make us better soldiers for Him. The enemy has stolen enough from us, has had too many victories. He has used others to hurt us, used illness to try and kill us, but we still have breath in these bodies. We can still rise up and fight. Our sword is the hope we offer another who suffers. It cuts through despair, guilt, anger, and pain. Hope defeats the enemy. Jesus, the greatest suffering soldier that ever lived, gave us His example to
Some of these recruited soldiers have been victims
live by. By His death and resurrection He bought us victory
of childhood abuses, often going on to make bad life
over all kinds of suffering and gave us an eternal hope.
choices that result in even more suffering and guilt. Many
Finding hope in suffering makes us one with Christ; it is
soldiers have suffered from neglect, been wounded,
taking up our own cross and following Him.
rejected, or have lost someone or something they have
It is impossible to love God fully and enjoy Him forever
loved. Some soldiers suffer from physical ailments daily.
without embracing hope. Once we are filled the desire to
They wake up in excruciating, never ending pain, and
share it with others should grow in us. When we give the
rarely leave their beds. The doctors tell them, "No cure,
gift of hope to someone else, we have helped in creating
no hope!" Unless the Lord heals them all they see ahead
another suffering soldier for God's army.
for their future is more suffering. suffered and you have scars, but there are no scars that the scars of Christ cannot heal.
50 // April 2020
About The Author
Suffice it to say, if you live in this fallen world you have Cheryl King is a homemaker, wife, mom, and grandmother. She has enjoyed writing since she was a child and especially loves to inspire others into a deeper walk with the Lord.
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