Gò0dNews August 2021
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Andrew Lee Brent Goodge Caleb Prytherch Chris Mullis Dave Adams David Chambers Eddie Turner Heather Tate Jonathan Maloney Judy Collins Karen D. Jeffery Karla Smedley Kristen West Laura Perdue Monica Gambrell Nikki Hill Dr. Rob Debelak Sandra Gilmore Tammy P. Stafford Tim Marcum Todd Looper
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Matthew and Bethany Ruckman Cell: 423-503-1410 E-mail: goodnewstn@gmail.com
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Hello Friends, We want to take a moment to tell you who we are and what we are about. Our names are Matt and Bethany Ruckman and we have six beautiful children, Brendon, Kailey, Andrew, Leah Jean, Emma, and Cooper. We live in Cleveland, Tennessee, and love what this town has to offer! We have started GoodNews Christian Magazine because we feel that when God, family, and community are combined, lives will be changed. GoodNews Christian Magazine is a complimentary, Christian lifestyle publication. You can find us throughout the community in retail establishments, churches, restaurants, and more. Our magazine opens the door for Christians to work together to grow and strengthen our community through relevant editorial and effective advertising. GoodNews Christian Magazine is written by men and women in the community who love and serve the Lord. Our hearts are open and willing to be used by God to reach out to the community to spread the GoodNews!
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Contents
AUGUST 2021
GoodNews from the Pastor’s Desk
6 The Spiritual Garden by Chris Mullis
GoodNews for Kids
8 David’s Adventures by Sandra Gilmore
GoodNews on Money Matters
10 Want Accountability? Tell Everybody
by Andrew Lee GoodNews for Men
12 Time to Forgive by Dave Adams
GoodNews for Women
14 Fearlessness in Faith by Heather Tate
GoodNews for Everyone
18 Breakfast of Champions by Monica Gambrell
GoodNews for Everyone
20 Freeze Frame
by Karla Smedley
GoodNews for Life
22 Infusion Day
by Tammy P. Stafford
GoodNews for Everyone
24 Adding to God’s Word by Eddie Turner
GoodNews Cover Story
26 Tenchi Family Karate by David Chambers
GoodNews for Teens
28 Come Out of The Grave by Caleb Prytherch
GoodNews for Everyone
30 Gardening or Goldmining? Genesis 1-3
by Dr. Rob Debelak GoodNews for Everyone
32 Life Gate
by Jonathan Maloney
GoodNews for Everyone
34 Two Universal Truths About Our Messes
by Kristen West
6
GoodNews for Family
36 It’s Not Wasted Time by Laura Perdue
GoodNews for Everyone
38 Precious Metals and Pretty Clothes
by Brent Goodge GoodNews for Parents
40 When You Least Expect It by Nikki Hill
GoodNews for your Taste Buds
42 Summer Corn Salad
26
by Tim Marcum
GoodNews from the IT Desk
44 Cyber Crime:
The Next Pandemic?
by Todd Looper GoodNews for Everyone
46 Spiritual Baggage by Karen D. Jeffery
GoodNews for Everyone
50 God Is My Everything by Judy Collins
50
Gò0dNews from the Pastor’s Desk
The Spiritual Garden
“T
by Chris Mullis
hen Jesus told this story: A man planted a fig
get excited about some spiritual truth from time to time
tree in his garden and came again and again
or maybe they turn to God during a difficult crisis.
to see if there was any fruit on it, but he was
Unfortunately, sporadic spiritual gardening rarely leads to
always disappointed. Finally, he said to his gardener, ‘I’ve
great spiritual fruit. You might get some occasional fig here
waited three years, and there hasn’t been a single fig! Cut it
or there, but you will not see the kind of fruitfulness our
down. It’s just taking up space in the garden.’ The gardener
Heavenly Gardener expects or deserves.
answered, ‘Sir, give it one more chance. Leave it another
An abundant harvest requires intentional, focused daily
year, and I’ll give it special attention and plenty of fertilizer.
work. You do not have to go live in a monastery, but you
If we get figs next year, fine. If not, then you can cut it
do need to get organized, plan ahead, do some research,
down” (Luke 13:6-9).
and dedicate some daily time in your spiritual garden.
I am not much of a gardener, at least I was not until this year. I have tried to grow gardens in the past with limited success. I might get a few tomatoes or cucumbers, but it seems everyone else had “greener” thumbs than me. My biggest challenge was consistent attention. I would start the season with great enthusiasm, but my life soon filled with so many other obligations that the garden would get neglected and its fruitfulness would suffer too. So, this year, I was determined not to lose focus on my garden. Before the season started, I planned everything out. I charted when and where I should plant, how often to fertilize, and when to harvest, etc. After planting, I walked through the garden every day to prune and pull weeds.
You are going to need to do some watering (praying),
I researched how to grow different kinds of fruits and
fertilizing (reading Scripture), weeding (getting rid of
vegetables. I kept track of the rain so I knew if the plants
some bad influences in your life), pruning (getting rid of
needed extra water. I am careful to fertilize, spray for bugs
some unnecessary things), and guarding against pests
and watch for other problems. I even paid someone to take
(temptations or habits or people or things that threaten your
care of the garden while I was away for a week of vacation.
spiritual health).
It has been amazing to see the success of the garden
Gardening takes work and so does living for God, but
this year. I am still not what I would call a great gardener.
the fruit is rewarding and worth it! What can you do to be
However, even a mediocre gardener like me can be
more fruitful for God today?
Many people neglect their spiritual life like I have neglected my vegetable garden in the past. They may
6 // August 2021
About The Author
successful when they stay focused. Rev. Chris Mullis is an ordained minister of the United Methodist Church with a Masters of Divinity from Candler School of Theology at Emory University. Pastor Chris’s ministry has spanned twenty years and four different churches in Georgia. Chris is currently serving God as the senior pastor of Pleasant Grove Methodist Church located at 2701 Cleveland Hwy in Dalton, GA.
Gò0dNews for Kids
David’s Adventures
T
by Sandra Gilmore
here once was a boy with some sheep, Some rams, and lambs, and ewes. He tended them tenderly night and day. He did all that he could do. Later, he was a boy with a basket, His father told him to carry, To take it to his brothers at the battle site “Go right away, don’t tarry.” With basket in hand, (full of cheese and bread) He was on a mission. He obeyed his dad and left right away, Even though he could have gone fishin’!
Now, he was a boy with a sling, Five smooth stones in his pouch. He remembered when he slayed the lion and the bear. He braced himself to give the giant a big ouch! He put the sling in motion, It whirled and twirled above his head, The giant kept on taunting, But he should have stood in dread! David’s stones launched airborne. Traveling with great speed, The troops and the crowd were motionless, For nobody believed: This boy with the sheep and the basket Could impact such a great scene, A standoff between a giant and a whole army But God intervened!
8 // August 2021
The stone met its target, right on time. It was forceful and it hurt. The giant stopped teasing and taunting, When his face timbered to meet the dirt! Are you just a boy (or girl) with a basket? A child without a mission? Obey the Lord, and do your tasks, Even if you would rather be fishin’! For as you go, the Lord will go with you. From sunrise to sunset He is your constant companion. The best friend you’ve ever met! You might think your days are boring, Bland, without treat or treasure. Remember David with his basket of cheese, And you, too, can find adventure!
About The Author
He delivered the basket and found a surprise. A giant was taunting the troops! The army was hiding and covering their ears. While the giant whistled and whooped!
Sandra Gilmore serves the Lord as wife, mom, and encourager, mostly through writing and speaking, occasionally through cooking, rarely through anything athletic and only because of the mercy and grace of Jesus. You can reach her by email: tandsgilmore@yahoo.com or her website www.sandragilmore.org.
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Want Accountability? Tell Everybody 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.
I
’ll tell you a secret: I’ve been using the Noom weight loss system for a few months now and have dropped nearly twenty pounds so far (glory to God). Countless experts say it’s critical to share your goals with others to keep yourself accountable and to stay motivated, so here’s hoping they’re right! No matter your goals, by sharing them online or in person with friends and family, you are more likely to be held accountable and to meet your goals. The psychology behind this should be obvious. Once you speak (or type) your goals and intentions into existence, they instantly become “real” by being heard and acknowledged by others who will usually offer encouragement and support to spur you on toward fulfilling your goals and following through on your intentions. More importantly, we now feel the pressure much more intensely to continue moving toward success in order not to look like a failure or quitter in the eyes of those who are watching to see whether we were determined and disciplined enough to do what we said we would do. Let’s apply these ideas to financial goals. If one of your goals is to reduce debts and save money for emergencies, you would be wise to share these goals with people whom you believe would support you in your efforts. Use wisdom here, and perhaps avoid sharing your goals with those whose financial habits are worse than yours since they may end up trying to discourage or mock your plans. Furthermore, get comfortable telling family and friends so they can expect to see changes in your spending and saving habits. For example, if you’re invited to dinner at an expensive restaurant that will jeopardize your monthly financial goals, you might instead offer to meet up with your
10 // August 2021
friend group later that evening after dinner for board games or karaoke. If these people are really your friends, they will respect your financial discipline and understand that your goals are a priority. By sharing your goals aloud, your friends can encourage you and be understanding in these types of situations. Sharing goals with others can also lead to pleasant surprises. For instance, most of us are aware of the “hot” real estate market we are currently experiencing. If you are trying to buy or sell a home right now, it would certainly help to share your goals with numerous people. You never know whether someone may know someone who is looking to buy or sell a home, which may lead to you realizing your goal. But if you keep your goals to yourself, people can’t help you. So, what stops us from telling others about our goals and plans and dreams? I think it usually comes down to fear—fear of being told our goals are unachievable and unrealistic or unimportant; fear of failing to reach our goals and having everyone think of us as a loser or a quitter or a hopeless dreamer. Ironically, one of the reasons we might choose to keep our goals to ourselves is precisely because we fear some of our friends and family might actually encourage us and offer to help us, which means we now must get “serious” and actually put forth extra effort and dedication to reach these goals (when in reality, we may have been planning subconsciously to quit pursuing this goal after yet another half-hearted effort). Proverbs 13:12 tells us, “Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life.” Start sharing your goals and dreams with others. The longer you wait, the longer your hope may be deferred.
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Gò0dNews for Men
Time to Forgive
I
by Dave Adams
t’s time to forgive one another…just like Tiny Tim did.
Jesus admitted, “Yes, this woman is guilty,” and in a
“God Bless us, everyone.” That is one of the most
brilliant move to unmask the true condition of their hearts,
remembered phrases in the story, A Christmas Carol,
adds “he who is without sin, cast the first stone.” One by
about Ebenezer Scrooge. In the story, a man who was very
one the men dropped their stones and walked away, starting
indifferent to his fellow man came to understand the joys
with the oldest. The oldest representing the one who had
of love and forgiveness. None of us want to be called a
the most sin. Jesus turned to the woman and said where are
Scrooge, but it is a lesson we all could learn to some extent,
your accusers? The woman said they are not here. “Then
especially now.
neither do I condemn you,” Jesus declared. “Go now and
We live in a time when there is tremendous judgement and polarization in our society. Today, we are being asked
leave your life of sin.” Caught in the very act, Jesus is willing to forgive those who truly repent.
to pick a side. Jesus warns us not to judge one another and to “love one another.” In John 13:34, Jesus said, “A new commandment I give to you, that is to love one another as I have loved you.” Jesus also said, “the world will know you are my disciples by the love you show one for another” (John 13:35). Jesus was speaking at a time when there was tremendous judgement of people because of their heritage. Jesus shares with us the story of the Good Samaritan. To some in that day, the term “Good Samaritan” would have been heresy. Samaritans were considered ritually unclean. They had intermarried with non-Jews and some had honored foreign gods. Jesus used examples of the day to demonstrate love, forgiveness and restoration. It is
Do you need more examples? Jesus weeping over
amazing that Jesus would have used a race of people who
Jerusalem—a city that kills prophets—and going to the cross
had worshiped other Gods. In this, Jesus is saying that
to die for sinners.
forgiveness and restoration is essential in a Christian’s life.
Is it going to take a visit from the ghost of Christmas
Jesus does warn not to keep sinning. This is exemplified
past before we get the message? We as Christians, need to
in the story of the woman caught in the act of adultery.
exemplify the grace and compassion of forgiveness. We also
In John 8:1, the religious leaders of the day used the law
need to pray about how to “walk the walk” in this stormy
to trip up Jesus. They seized a woman caught in adultery
reality in which we live.
execution of sentence. Stone her and do it now!
12 // August 2021
About The Author
and threw her at the feet of Jesus, demanding immediate Dave Adams served as a pastor for two years in Bend, Oregon. Adams is licensed through Christian Global Outreach Ministries. Adams is working on several outreaches, including, The Jesus Network, USA Heartbeat, Operation Eagles Wings, and Back the Blue Radio. Adams has lived in Chattanooga, Tennessee, for more than two years and plans on staying in the south.
Gò0dNews for Women
Fearlessness in Faith
I
by Heather Tate
found myself discussing faith and fear with my
a Christian am I when I just try to sit back and tell God to
husband. I argued, trying to pull from biblical truths I
hold on a minute…a week…a month…a year…a decade
know in the deepest parts of my soul. Yet, I fail to live
or even longer? Before I know it, the time of opportunity is
out and exemplify these truths in my actions—not because
gone, and I am still holding on and hoping that somehow
I do not know how to live it but because fear gets in the
God can work through me to accomplish what He has called
way. This is an area of continual spiritual development. He
me to do.
has called me to a purpose in this life—He has called us—
The measure of our faith grows in our acting upon the
to do something significant for His kingdom. I am stuck
purpose God has placed on our lives. It is in the doing that
saying, “Wait, God, I’m not sure I’m ready. I don’t think I
God increases our faith (Romans 12:3, 2 Peter 1:3-11). If we
can do it!” Honestly, we need to remember we cannot, but God can! We may find ourselves on different spectrums of “Hold on, God!” My husband’s form of “Hold on, God!” comes in the shape of “but.” Instead of saying, “I’m not ready,” my hubby says, “Yes, God, but I have responsibilities...” He admits to being a blessed man. He shares his faith with others. Why is it so difficult to step into what God has called us to do? I do not want to continue to show this lack of faith as a living example. In doing so, those I have an opportunity to witness to may never fully grasp the greatness of God on this earth. Every time we say the word “but” to God, we are
continue to hold on to the “buts” of this world, we give up
demonstrating faithlessness, fear, and doubt to everyone
our rights to Heavenly eternal treasures.
around us—but most importantly to God. When we feel the
Itold my husband that we are not genuinely counting
call from God in our soul, spirit, head, and heart but we are
on God’s promises every time we say “but” to God. We are
afraid to step fully into the call, our hesitation is doubt in
saying to God that we do not believe He can handle our
God’s ability to fill the needs of our lives. It is nothing more
circumstances, worries, lives, and needs. We are limiting
than us putting earthly limitations on the God who created
God with our earthly knowledge of life. It is not a good
the universe and everything in it.
Christian quality, yet so many of us live in fear rather
Our doubts and fears are shown to those around us as faithlessness! It is no wonder people who do not know the
than faith! What areas in your own life can you decide to exemplify fearlessness in faith?
Lord may take one glance at us and determine that we are this example. Everything wrong I have done in my life cannot outweigh the sin of my faithlessness. What kind of
14 // August 2021
About The Author
hypocritical. We do not live what we tell others through
Heather Tate is the founder and president of Intricate Umbrella Inc, a Public Relations and Communications company. Heather’s desire is to help anyone fulfill their true purpose in life through education and personal development. To find out more about Intricate Umbrella Inc and services offered, visit IntricateUmbrella.com or email Heather@IntricateUmbrella.com.
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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 Centerpoint Baptist Church 420 Centerpoint Drive SE, 30721 706-277-2100 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
16 // August 2021
Good Samaritan Baptist Church 3137 Cleveland Rd, 30721 706-259-7239 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
Lifegate Church 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
Latter-day Saints
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 610 Shugart Rd, 30720 706-278-5295
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
Baptist
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
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
Salvationalist
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
Chatsworth Church Directory
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
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 Everyone
Breakfast of Champions
W
by Monica Gambrell
hen I was young, my father drew a large
When I came to know the Lord, I was (and continue to be)
amount of pleasure from both physical and
overwhelmed with the fact that He could love me.
emotional abuse of his children. For instance,
God is the most amazing Father imaginable. I had no
when my older brothers or sisters were being punished,
qualms about how different His love for me was from my
my father would stack books in their hands while their
earthly father’s. God does ONLY that which is best for
arms were stretched out to each side. If their arms lowered
me—at all times! He will never tease or tempt me. He will
by even an inch, he would punish them further. He also
never emotionally, mentally, or physically abuse me. He
loved making me and my siblings eat unappetizing
will never allow anyone to harm me without retribution.
things (hot sauce, sardines, etc.). It is no wonder most
He will never allow the circumstances in my life to be more than He can bear within me. My heavenly Father wants me to feast on the TRUE breakfast of champions—His Word! To rise each morning in the gentle comfort of my heavenly Father’s arms is a nirvana that I never imagined I could experience. I love the words to a song we sing at church: “I want to sit at Your feet, drink from the cup in Your hand, lay back against You and breathe, and feel Your heart beat.” It is like being a destitute wretch and finding the Hope diamond. It is an infinite and immeasurable treasure. I will
of us developed eating disorders. On one particularly
never get over His love for me. God’s Word is the bread
memorable morning, my father forced me to eat scrambled
of life, it nourishes and sustains me. It is a double-edged
eggs with ketchup on them. He called it “the breakfast of
sword, it convicts, reproves, and instructs me. The whole
champions.” I did my best, but after most of it was forced
armor of God is both defensive and offensive in nature.
down, I vomited on the plate.
May we never neglect to feast on His Word—the true
I tell this story not to dishonor my father, but to
breakfast of champions.
illustrate a point. Many of us can equate our Father God’s
“Then said they unto him, Lord, evermore give us this
attributes to the ones we witnessed in our earthly father. I
bread. And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he
have to say that this malady never influenced my thought
that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth
process. As a matter of fact, it was quite the opposite.
on me shall never thirst. But I said unto you, that ye also have seen me, and believe not” (John 6:34-36).
18 // August 2021
Church Activities & Events Little Prospect Baptist Church Alabaster Voices
Sunday, August 8 | 10:30AM 8347 GA-2, Dalton, GA
New Hope Baptist Church VBS Cosmic Crusade
Sunday, August 8 – Friday, August 13 1273 New Hope Rd, Chatsworth, GA
Calvary Memorial Baptist Church
Vernon Greeson’s Gospel Music Explosion Concert Saturday, August 14 | 6:00PM 518 Hwy 41, Ringgold, Georgia 30736
Friendship Baptist Church Ordained In Service
Sunday, August 15 | 10:30AM 2585 Maddox Chapel Rd NE, Dalton, GA
Gò0dNews for Everyone
Freeze Frame
A
by Karla Smedley
freeze frame photo is a type of still image. This
horrible scores to the kind counselor who showed me an
particular kind holds an action in place, freeze
alternate route toward my dream of becoming a teacher.
framing it, to preserve the moment. These shots are
And the office where I learned I had cancer? God reminds
generally used for a purpose. It is fun to open photo albums and see all the memories
me of my camping trip. I sat on the scratchy, nylon-woven chair and watched the fluffy clouds drift in the big, blue sky.
come to life. Amid it’s pages, a person might find freeze
God gave me the gift of pondering how He was in control of
frames of the first wobbly steps taken toward mom,
everything. He gave me this peace for almost an hour that
puckered lips blowing out candles, a dribbling ball in
April morning…only five days before.
midair, a slinging fishing line headed toward the water, an
God even gives us the ability to create freeze frames
open mouth with fried chicken on its way inside, a winner
that have not actually happened—our imagination. While
holding his trophy, or the precious smiles posing with a loved one for the final time. These freeze frames often unleash the background story that floods our minds, producing grins, laughs, or sometimes tears. God created us with the ability to freeze frame memories in our minds as well. While I am an extremely visual person, I believe most have the capability to close our eyes and create a home movie of a past event. Seeing my daughters ride bikes with their hair blowing in the wind brings cheer to my emptynesting heart. What a blessing a memory can be to us in needed times. However, life does not just consist of happy moments. In fact, life is made of mountains and valleys and highs and lows. At times, I have captured some painful freeze frames in my mind and held them too tightly.
we often lessen this ability as we develop past childhood,
Opening the envelope to discover my devastating SAT
these imagined freeze frames are helpful. During my mom’s
scores in 1985 seemed to shatter my college dreams. The
two-year journey toward death, I often created pictures of
office where the doctor shared I had breast cancer comes
us walking over a big bridge. While her steps were only
to mind. Those pictures and movies have the potential to
allowed to travel one-way, I took great comfort in this
smother a person in bitterness and harness him in pain.
visual. What a treasure to walk with her as she traveled
If not careful, this person can allow these negative freeze
onward to her final home with God.
frames to leave him trapped in a dark room with the walls
The most beautiful future freeze frame is when we
closing in. How does this person not get stuck in the muck
accept Christ as our savior. We can imagine that day, when
of these moments?
we too will walk with Him in eternity, just as Mom is
God allows us to replace our scarred freeze frames
doing now.
pieces by praying and asking God to replace them. Allowing God to divert my thoughts from the letter that stated my
20 // August 2021
About The Author
with ones that regenerate us. We can tear the negatives into Karla Smedley lives in Dalton, Georgia, where she has taught 5th through 8th grade for the past twenty-four years. She is a member of Emmaus Baptist Church and has two grown children. She enjoys singing with the praise team at church, and she writes a Christian blog, Smorgasbord of Sisterhood, with her cousin Donna.
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Gò0dNews for Life
Infusion Day
T
by Tammy P. Stafford
raffic was horrible on I-75 this morning.
“pump” into you. You must work it out for
A northbound accident slowed both
yourself—you and Jesus.
sides of the interstate from a crawl to a
The human body heals physically from the
stop. The sight of the wreckage left Steve and I
inside out. Jesus’ Spirit works in us the same
nauseous. The
way. Once we accept Jesus, He begins a work in
only help I
us from the inside out. Reading His Word, living
could offer
out His Word, singing to Him, praising Him,
was prayer.
worshipping Him, praying and obeying Him are
It’s infusion day. Steve is getting a four-
all ways we can “infuse” ourselves with His gift of love and grace. Steve gets lab work to check his blood
hour infusion of four
values. They
grams of magnesium.
measure at least
Since his double lung
fifty markers.
transplant, Steve’s magnesium
Every marker has
seems to always be low. I am
a normal value.
sitting in a chair to his right. I
If God drew
cannot get the people involved
bloodwork on my
in the crash off my mind. I hope
soul, I wonder what
they survived. If they met God
He would find. He
today, I hope they knew Jesus.
would probably tell me my value for “reading His
Staring at Steve’s IV pole, I thought how wonderful it
Word” is low or my value for
would be if we could “infuse”
“singing to Him” is low. The
people with Jesus. Simply pop a
Great Physician would most
needle into their veins and pump
likely write me an order for
in His life-saving blood—a complete
an infusion, because I always need a little more Jesus!
transfusion of mercy. I wonder how many would show up to get it. I wish it was that choice that no one can “hook” you up with or 22 // August 2021
About The Author
easy. Accepting the gift of eternal life is a personal
Tammy P. Stafford is an aspiring Christian writer authoring her first book, Labeled by Humanity, Loved by God, in 2010. She resides in Chatsworth with her husband Steve. They have two daughters and three granddaughters. Follow her on Facebook @Tammy365.
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
Adding to God’s Word
I
by Eddie Turner
n the very last chapter of the Bible, God warns us of the severe consequences associated with “adding” to His Word. “I testify to everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this book: if anyone adds to them, God will add to him the plagues that are written in this book” (Revelation 22:18). This is a warning that has been heeded over and over during the extremely delicate process of producing new Bible translations. The production of the New International Version (NIV) translation, for example, involved over 100 biblical scholars—each dedicated to maintaining the highest degree of accuracy in their revisions. The text was then meticulously reviewed by the Committee on Bible Translation (CBT), a team of fifteen biblical scholars whose approval ensured that the work was free from agenda, bias, and outside influences. Further updates to the text required the partnership of these same groups of scholars. Needless to say, the malicious adding of text to the Bible just does not happen. So, how are we able to add to God’s Word? We do this when we purposefully skew the teaching of the Bible to suit our own desires. While the text does not change, the context in which we share God’s Word gets twisted quite frequently. For instance, concerning the topic of homosexuality, God’s regard to this lifestyle was made very clear in the Old Testament. Jesus, however, is often labeled as having progressed from that mindset and is believed to have been more accepting of the practice. While there are indeed many passages in the New Testament that assure us that this is not the case, omitting them to demonstrate how the Bible actually embraces homosexuality, or any sin for that matter, represents an effort to add to the Bible. My usage of homosexuality in this example is not to set it apart as some mega-sin. In fact, it is looked upon by God with the same aversion as the lies that you and I have told. Here is another example. During my research for this article, I came across a column written by an individual who taught that Jesus was prone to making the same mistakes we do. The author’s argument included Jesus being fully human as well as his “confession of ignorance” (per the author) about when he would be returning to the earth. So,
24 // August 2021
why was it so important that the author make this case? After reading the entire article, I concluded that this person wanted others to adopt the belief that the Bible carries no weight in its defining of right and wrong. As Christians, we are given the task of painting an accurate picture of God for others. You might even say that we serve as book covers for the Bible, which proves itself over and over to be His perfect and flawless instruction for our lives.
Bear in mind that a simple claim contrary to the Bible’s teaching is not necessarily adding to God’s Word. It is when we put our words in God’s mouth that we are adding to His. As we progress toward our day of redemption, we can only expect to see more and more false teaching with the potential to lead God’s precious children astray. Until that day comes, may we continue to focus upon adding to the number of those who will join us into eternity. This number has already been set, of course. It simply has not been reached. How do we know this? Because we are still here.
TENCHI FAMILY KARATE MARTIAL ARTS, FITNESS & CHILD DEVELOPMENT
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OKINAWAN KARATE is a TREASURED MARTIAL ART. We are the ORIGINAL COMBAT MARTIAL ART from Okinawa, Japan. Everything begins with you, YOUR STABILITY LIVES WITHIN YOURSELF. Karate is about CREATING PEACE. Courtesy, Honesty, and Respect belongs to everyone. From decades of proven martial art methods, we help everyone grow mentally and physically to become the BEST VERSION OF YOURSELF. We welcome you and your family to come “LIVE YOUR BEST LIFE.”
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FEATURED COVER STORY
L
Tenchi Family Karate by David Chambers
ast June, I was fortunate enough to receive an invitation
Okinawa, where Mickey Brock, the owner, has trained with us
to the Okinawa Prefectural Karate Do Rengokai training
on so many occasions at CFA seminars.
event near Atlanta. Apart from wanting to spend a few
However, it is also very modern and well equipped for
days with Morio Higaonna Sensei, who would be attending, I
business, yet the 20th century management tools are artfully
was anxious to visit the new Tenchi Goju Ryu dojo of Mickey
designed to blend with the center’s overall design, and not be
Brock, a long-time supporter, friend, and promoter of Classical
presented as electronic status symbols. They serve the dojo
Fighting Arts Magazine. I arrived a day early so I would have
members; digital servants of the diverse yet homogenous
time to rest after the flight, and before driving up to Dalton for
micro-society of this unique karate dojo. This is a place for
a private visit.
work and study, for effort and sweat, for frustration followed
I had heard that the Tenchi Dojo was very nice, but I was
by enlightenment. A place where even the youngest members
not prepared for what awaited me at the corner of Ruby Drive
are encouraged to improve themselves in a separate “quiet”
and the Cleveland Hwy., just a few minutes from Interstate
study room where they can master the principles of bun bu
75. An imposing 11,000 square foot, purpose built martial
ryo do the sword and the pen in accord, by finishing their
arts center designed by an experienced karate instructor,
homework before they train.
and constructed entirely under his supervision. The first impression one gets is of its size, followed very rapidly by that of its presence. Like martial arts facilities in Japan, the quality is in the design and materials used, not in cheap decoration or gaudy displays. It glows with an inner warmth that is spartan yet familiar and welcoming to anyone who has trained extensively in Japan. Elements of the design, in the Higaonna Dojo of the facility in particular, are reflections of, or perhaps muses upon, the Okinawa Kenritsu Budokan in Naga City,
26 // August 2021
A little later that day, Higaonna Sensei arrived. The
Prefectural Budokan in Naha City, Okinawa. This is equipped
place had been buzzing with anticipation since the morning,
with multiple, makiwara, sanchin gaami, kongo ken, chi’ishi, and
and as the time of his arrival drew closer, the tension rose
tetsu geta. A unique feature is the enclosed exterior viewing
to the point of being palpable. Nervous parents with young
deck; a beautiful, practical, and very usable area that cannot fail
students dressed in sparkling white arrive; older dan grades
to impress the visitor.
often with a nervous, some would say furtive look, drifted
Miyagi Dojo
in one by one. Even from the most senior dan grades one felt apprehension born of excitement mingled with dread. Then, suddenly, he was there! Short of stature, quietly spoken, soberly dressed, unobtrusive, and yet a very daunting, almost overwhelming presence. I have known Morio Sensei for a very long time, and so people often ask me what he is like. I have never found a satisfactory way of answering them other than to say, “watch!” If you have ever been alone in a remote forest, you will know that suddenly, and for no apparent reason, things can go silent. Every bird, furry animal, and insect will stop as if a switch has been turned off, and vast forest will be blanketed in silence. Then, once again, just as suddenly, the million voices that contribute to nature’s overture will begin again. THAT is the effect that Morio Sensei has when he enters a room, and so it was on this evening. Higaonna Sensei walked into the dojo that bears his name, and the silence descended. He introduced himself as if he were just a new kid on the block, suggested that it would be rather nice if they all meditated together before training, then sat himself in formal seiza at the front of the class as if he did it every night of the week on that very spot. The silence now sunk to a level as profound as that of a winter’s night in northern climes when heavy snow has just fallen. After a few minutes of meditation while the dojo held it collective breath, imperceptibly at first, the forest began to awaken, and the dynamo to spin. The members of the Tenchi Dojo would now experience, for three hours, Morio Higaonna’s concerto of karate with him as the conductor, and them as his orchestra.
Tenchi Martial Arts Facility: General Specifications Higaonna Dojo A three thousand square foot traditional karate dojo inspired by the design of the Rensei Dojo of the Okinawa
The second dojo, designated “Miyagi” has a three thousand square foot matted floor designed principally for younger students as well as kick boxing, Judo, and grappling. A very distinctive feature is the comfortable viewing lounge from which parents can watch the training through one-way glass. A rarely seen facility is also standard in this dojo; a thirty-six-foot training bag “jungle.”
Angel Dojo One thousand square feet that is reserved for private tuition. It offers an oasis of calm in a bustling facility that is conducive to the most focused practice and study. A place for closely supervised, intense training.
General Facilities Four beautiful changing rooms with showers and private lockers. Three lobbies where parents and other visitors can relax, a pro-shop, a coffee shop, and student room for young members. The overall quality of this new facility is very impressive. It boasts large dojo with lots of headroom for weapons practice, the best training equipment, wood and tiled floor surfaces, changing facilities that would not be out of place in an expensive hotel, and parking just feet from the front reception desk. Of special note are the discrete viewing areas, the enclosed exterior deck of the Higaonna Dojo, and the functionality of the overall design, which is perfect. This facility shows what a combination of a deep knowledge the martial arts coupled with a great deal of planning and sincere effort can achieve.
goodnewscm.com // 27
Gò0dNews for Teens
Come Out of The Grave
S
by Caleb Prytherch
orrow and sadness are emotions that all of us face or
So, Jesus calls Lazarus to come out of the grave and
have faced in our lives. We go through hard times, we
Lazarus comes out alive and well! Jesus had just performed
lose people we love, and many other circumstances
another great miracle. In the later part of Verse 44, Jesus
that can cause us to feel sad. I do not necessarily believe
says to them to “Take off the grave clothes, and let him go.”
that any person likes to feel sad; however, I have found that
I believe that this passage is so important for us to take
many times people allow their sadness to overtake their joy
ahold of. No matter what you have gone through, you are
in their lives. I want to remind you that if you are dealing
not meant to stay in that place of sorrow for the rest of your
with a difficult circumstance, it is okay to feel sad. However,
life. You are not called to be bound by the “grave clothes”
you must not allow the sadness to stay in your life forever.
forever, because God is greater than the most difficult
In John 11, we read that Jesus’ close friend Lazarus was
circumstances of your life.
sick and then died. When Jesus arrived at Judea, Lazarus had been in the tomb for four days. Jesus talked to Lazarus’ sisters, Martha and Mary, and He was greatly moved. “When Jesus saw her weeping, and the Jews who had come along with her also weeping, he was deeply moved in spirit and troubled. ‘Where have you laid him?’ he asked. ‘Come and see, Lord,’ they replied. Jesus wept” (John 11:33-35). While there is a lot that we could learn about in this story, there are a couple of things that I want to specifically focus on. First of all, in this passage we read that Jesus was greatly moved by the death of his dear friend and in Verse 35, it says that “Jesus wept.” What this tells me is that Jesus felt the pain, sorrow, and sadness that Mary and Martha felt. This also
Satan wants you to be bound by sorrow, but eventually,
reminds me that Jesus feels the pain, sorrow, and sadness that
you have got to take the grave clothes off. The enemy wants
all of us feel. He knows where you are, what you are going
to keep reminding you and making you feel like you cannot
through, and He is right there with you through it all. He is
continue on with life, but God came so that you could
not some kind of robot or inanimate object—He is real, He
experience new hope, new joy, and new peace. Often times
feels, and He always knows what is happening.
we cling to our grave clothes because they seem in a weird
Secondly, if you continue to read on in this story, Jesus
way “comfortable,” but God has called for us to take them
ordered that the stone be moved from the tomb where
off! Jesus walked out of the grave, He called Lazarus out of
Lazarus was buried. Once the stone was moved, Jesus
the grave, so why do we think that we must stay in it?
prayed to the Father, and then he called forth for Lazarus to
“For his anger lasts only a moment, but his favor lasts a
come out of the grave. “When he had said this, Jesus called
lifetime; weeping may stay for the night, but rejoicing comes
in a loud voice, “Lazarus, come out!” The dead man came
in the morning” (Psalm 30:5).
cloth around his face. Jesus said to them, ‘Take off the grave clothes and let him go’” (John 11:43-44).
28 // August 2021
About The Author
out, his hands and feet wrapped with strips of linen, and a Caleb Prytherch is the student pastor at Heritage Fellowship Church of God in McDonald, Tennessee. He is a graduate of Lee University, holding a Bachelor’s degree in pastoral ministry and a Master’s degree in practical theological studies. He is married to his beautiful wife, Bekah, and together they have a passion to see peoples lives be changed and transformed through the power of Jesus Christ.
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
Gardening or Goldmining? Genesis 1-3
W
by Dr. Rob Debelak
ith purpose and order, God plants a lush garden
among the foliage. Their subsequent efforts compounded the
and places a steward there (2:8-9). Food supplies are
problem as layer upon layer of vegetation depicted the lengths
abundant and accessible, except for one tree (2:15-
people will go in futile attempts to bury guilt.
17). The man's new residence is complete with running water
Living outside the garden is harsh. The woman endures
(2:10-14). A stream extends beyond Eden, winding through a
painful childbearing (3:16); her children struggle against evil
land rich with gold that is good, aromatic resin, and onyx. A
(3:15)—will they succumb to temptation as she had (Ch 4) or
precious metal, a fragrant balm, and an exquisite stone—all
emerge victorious, despite affliction? She and her husband
valued for trade but non-consumable. These resources are
experience relationship issues (3:16). The man labors to put
quality but pale in comparison to God's Garden.
food on the table (3:17-19). There are resources (2:12), but life outside the garden is opposite the ideal; it is marked by sorrow, strife, and self-interest (Ch 4). The environment is cursed, tension-filled, and food more challenging to come by. In the end, death will take them to their graves. If only they had listened. Life now is less than God's garden design. Echoing the judgments and characterizing human existence is pain (hard work, regardless of industry; 3:17), power (relationship tensions, reaching international levels; 3:16), and the insatiable pursuit of greed (distorting use of gold & precious resources; 2:12). Esteeming commodities (“...gold that is good”) of greater import than God's Word cheapens them. The silent symbols of Genesis 2:12 challenge us to examine if we are content to live outside the garden in a world of suffering and brokenness,
God favorably assesses His handiwork (1:4, 10, 12, 18, 21, 25, 31), though, a solitary deficiency is the man's loneliness
preferring material things we value and potentially idolize. Ignoring God settles for less, no matter how shiny or
(2:18). Creating the woman and their joyful uniting complete
appealing the options. In contrast, the psalmist sings, the
the chapter. Tragically, however, choosing the forbidden tree
Lord's ordinances “...are more precious than gold, than much
dishonors God's one command and results in judgment (Ch 3).
fine gold” (Ps 19:10). Despite arduous efforts to produce
Exposed, they play the blame game, but no one wins passing
bread (food), life stems from every word originating with
the buck for sin. God sentences the serpent, the woman, and the
God (Deuteronomy 8:3, Matthew 4:4). Ultimately, Scripture's
man; reserving access to another tree (the tree of life), He sends
redemptive story anticipates the faithful returning to garden-
the unrepentant human pair from the garden (3:23-24).
like beauty and restored relationships—a homecoming to
Life in Eden enjoyed equality between the couple (1:27-31).
a holy place where God still prioritizes a life-giving tree,
Both bear the image of God, together they are blessed, and each
reducing the human estimation of gold to building material
shared responsibility in caring for creation. They were to be
and pavement: “...the leaves of the tree (of life) were for the
fruitful and multiply. Selfish desire, though, drew their hearts
healing of the nations” (Revelation 22:2) and “...and the street of
away from loving God preeminently. Blessings, transparency,
the city was pure gold” (Revelation 21:21).
Everything hinged on one prohibited tree. Embarrassed by transgression, they sewed leaves to cover their shame and hid
30 // August 2021
About The Author
joy, fellowship, provisions, shelter—all altered in a moment. Dr. Rob Debelak is associate professor of Bible in Lee University’s Online Program. He has taught at Lee University for 25 years, and is a veteran of the U.S. Air Force. He and his family reside in Cleveland, TN.
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
Life Gate
G
by Jonathan Maloney
od is great and He is a good God. A lot of people have issues and are
everyone who had known him before came and ate with him in his house. They comforted and consoled
looking for help—a place where they
him over all the trouble the Lord had brought on
can feel accepted. During these times, it can be
him, and each one gave him a piece of silver and a
difficult to find a church home. In my own life,
gold ring. The Lord blessed the latter part of Job’s
there have been times when people have prayed
life more than the former part” (Job 42:10-12). Job 42:10 tells us that when Job prayed for his friends, God was touched and Job was fully restored twice what was taken away. This is why we go to church—to support one another. One can send 1,000
for me in church and have interceded for me. It is
to flight and two can send 10,000 to flight. If you
always great when somebody can stand in the gap
are looking for a church, we would love to have
for you when you are feeling at your lowest. It is
you here at Life Gate in Dalton, Georgia. Come as
also important—even more of a blessing—when
you are. Be accepted and be loved.
you can do the same for somebody else.
“For God so loved the world that He gave His
“After Job had prayed for his friends, the Lord
one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him
restored his fortunes and gave him twice as much
shall not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16).
as he had before. All his brothers and sisters and 32 // August 2021
God Bless.
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
Two Universal Truths About Our Messes
I
by Kristen West
am not a big fan of messes. As a child, I turned inside out at the thought of
jumping in a mud puddle. At the first sign of getting my
us understand, empathize, and have compassion towards each other. They level the playing field. None of us have attained
hands dirty during art period in school, I was petitioning
perfection yet (Romans 3:11) and we all need God’s grace
my teacher for a hall pass.
applied to our lives in the same manner (Ephesians 2:8).
Those external preferences of “not getting dirty” seemingly reflected what was also in my heart.
Messes put all of humanity on equal footing in desperate need of the same life-giving Gospel.
Striving for years to look like I had it all together, my life exploded in what could only be described as “a mess” by anyone. Divorce, single parenting, moving more times than I can count, remarrying, blending a large family and mentally deprogramming from years of religious cult abuse was, hands down, the messiest season of life I have ever navigated! I would love to tell you that I cooperated with God wholeheartedly during that season—patiently waiting for Him to guide, direct, and love me through it. But, I did not always. Many times, I saw the mess and began to work on polishing it, hiding it, or trying to clean it up myself because I did not want others to see it. Can you relate? No one wants others to think poorly of them—add to
God walks with us through our messes to help develop us so we might grow in His grace, love, and mercy towards others! Whatever “mess” you find yourself in today, friend,
that any amount of pride and ego (which we all have to
embrace it, trust God in it, and lean on those people around
wrestle with daily). Having messes in our lives is something
you who can help walk with you through it.
no one wants to talk about.
In the words of inspirational author E. Messer, “Having
Yet, here is the beautiful truth about messes:
someone help you doesn’t mean that you failed; it just
They make us all relatable. Galatians 6:2 instructs us to
means that you’re not in it alone.”
“carry each other’s burdens.” In other words, let us help we are busy putting a gloss-finish on our own issues. Let us be real—the fact that we all have messes in our lives helps
34 // August 2021
About The Author
each other through our messes! We cannot help each other if Kristen West works at Rock Bridge Community Church with a heart for staff leadership, development, and care. She is a communicator with a passion to inspire, encourage, and challenge others in their daily walk with Christ. She writes and publishes weekly content on her blog at kristen-west.com.
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Gò0dNews for Family
It’s Not Wasted Time by Laura Perdue
R
omans 8:28 says, “And we know that in all things
agreed and tried his best to put me in a positive mindset but
God works for the good of those who love him, who
at that moment, all I could think about was “wasted time”
have been called according to his purpose” (NIV).
and still no answers.
Waste: eliminated or discarded as no longer useful or
required after the completion of a process.
During the remainder of the evening and into the early morning, the Holy Spirit in His soft gentle way reminded
Yesterday was one of those days. One of those days
me, “Laura, Daughter, nothing you have been through
when I got wrapped up in my thoughts, my feelings, my
is wasted. I am going to use your and Carston’s story to
emotions—all of it! To start the day off, I had to make a trip to the imaging center to have my yearly mammogram. This is only my second year having it done and I will admit I get serious anxiety a few days before and after. Not so much for the procedure itself, but waiting for the results. Some would say it’s a waste of time, but the visit was not “wasted.” The second doctor’s appointment of the day was an eye appointment for my son with one of the top Neuro-Ophthalmologists in Atlanta. This visit would take about four hours. At the conclusion of the visit, we hoped to have more answers regarding the reason behind my son’s vision issues, and if anything else could be affecting his walking. We had been waiting over six months to get in with this specific doctor. I left his office
reach so many, do you trust me?” He reminded me of the
feeling frustrated, mad, angry, etc. On my way home, I was
two occasions during my day that He used specific parts of
driving and all in my flesh, I thought, “Man this was just a
my journey with Carston to be able to touch two precious
wasted trip.” I could have saved myself about five hours out
moms. I had an opportunity to step out of my comfort zone
of the day and not heard the same things we have been told
and share a part of my story and pray with these moms.
by our Pediatric Ophthalmologist for the past three years.
You see, these two moms did not need a sermon, they just
I got home around 5 p.m. and was honestly mentally and physically exhausted from the day. I texted with
needed a touch. So, the next time you catch yourself feeling like the day
someone close to our family and let them know the update
was “wasted time,” look back over the day and see if there
on Carston. I let them know that I know I am supposed to be
was an opportunity that was used to bless someone else.
okay, but that I was not. I was struggling with the findings.
You will quickly realize it was not wasted at all.
okay to not to be okay—that I do not need to feel like I must keep it all together for the sake of those around me. Brian
36 // August 2021
About The Author
Their powerful words of wisdom back to me was that it is 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 for Everyone
Precious Metals and Pretty Clothes
J
by Brent Goodge
ust after the Israelites crossed the Jordan into
clothing and riches he had deemed important enough to
Canaan, they faced the mighty walls of Jericho.
disobey God (Joshua 7:25-26).
In one of the most famous Bible stories of the Old
Sadly, some of God’s people did not learn the lesson of
Testament, God brought down the invincible walls and
Achan. Gehazi traded the privilege of being Elisha’s servant
Jericho was destroyed.
for two talents of silver and two changes of clothing. The
That was not the end of the story. The next city Joshua
clothes probably did not feel so special against his now
intended to capture was Ai. When he sent a smaller army
leprous skin as he had first imagined (2 Kings 5:22-27). Judas
against Ai, thirty-six Israelites were killed. The nation of
betrayed Jesus for thirty pieces of silver, but he never got to
Israel began to wonder if they could really possess Canaan
spend it. After throwing it back to the priests, he ended up
or not (Joshua 7:7). God revealed to Joshua that the loss to
hanging himself (Matthew 27:3-10).
Ai was because there was sin in the camp of Israel. He could
Revelation speaks of two women. The woman in white
not bless them with victory while the sin was allowed to
apparel in Revelation 12 wears the pure robe of Christ
continue unpunished.
(Revelation 12:1-6, 13-17). The other woman is dressed in
The armies of Israel would be able to gain massive wealth through the wars they would hold to destroy the
the beautiful garments of Babylon, decked with gold and precious stones (Revelation 17:1-6).
Canaanites. As the very first victory gained, the wealth of
In the book of Proverbs, these women are called
Jericho that could not be burned was to be dedicated to the
“Wisdom” and the “seductress” respectively (Proverbs
service of God (Joshua 6:17-19).
Chapters 1 and 2). The first one leads to the knowledge
Out of over 600,000 Israelite soldiers, one man had ventured to disobey. Achan had stolen from God (Malachi 3:8-9). Achan made his confession, but it was too late (Joshua 7:20-21). Imagine what it would take to know you were under the sentence of death, yet with wistful excitement you still described the stolen item as “a beautiful Babylonian garment.” Achan died that day. He was buried in a
of God (Proverbs 2:1-11). The second one leads to utter destruction (Proverbs 2:16-22). We can have the beautiful robes of Babylon, but the voice of Jesus pleads with us to reject them (Revelation 18:1-4). Jesus entreats us to take the robe of righteousness and the gold of faith that He so freely offers (Revelation 3:18, Revelation 7:14). These adornments He calls us to buy from Him “without money and without price” (Isaiah 55:1).
heap of stones along
It is a decision each of us
with all the
must make. Whose robe and jewels will we
38 // August 2021
About The Author
choose to wear?
Brent Goodge lives in Whitfield County and prays you will receive the robe of Christ’s righteousness.
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Gò0dNews for Parents
When You Least Expect It
F
by Nikki Hill
labbergasted! I am dumbfounded by the beauty and
would mention Jesus and God and tell us where He lives by
the work of God’s work of the human mind, namely,
pointing up to the sky or ceiling. He had a small children’s
how a child’s mind can comprehend and understand
Bible book that was his favorite go-to out of all the books
over time. When I was pregnant with my first son (and still
he had. I had to put it away and buy new ones because
to this day), I prayed over him that he would become a
it started to fall apart. Yesterday (a few weeks before this
child of God. I knew as a mother and a follower of Christ, I
article is published), he told my husband, “I want Jesus
needed to raise my son in Christ—I knew this is what is best
Bible,” meaning he wanted to learn more about Jesus from
for his life. Over and over in my mind and in my prayers before he came into the world, I wondered how I was going to teach my son about God and what tools I would use. How would I explain God and His word to him in a way that he will comprehend and understand? My husband and I would talk to our son, showing and explaining his surroundings— whether we were at the store, the park, or wherever—in hopes he would learn eventually. We would often tell him that our Creator made things exactly the way they are, like the birds, trees, flowers, etc. We still point out and explain many things to him, for he has a ton of questions about a lot of what he sees and hears. I learned to leave my worries concerning how I would
his Bible story activity book. This is his second time—with
teach my son more about God at God’s feet. I remember
a different material—where he actively asked on his own to
hearing a voice constantly reminding me, “Just do the best
learn more about God. His favorite bath time song is, “This
you can with what you got and I’ll take care of the rest.” In
Little Light of Mine.”
obedience and faith, I did. I had a voice to pray and sing.
As I look back over time to now, I am reminded of these
I sung and played music to my son from the day I learned
verses: “I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God
that babies can hear sounds in the womb. We did not have
has been making it grow” (1 Corinthians 3:6) and “These
much at the time, but we were blessed with Bible story
commandments that I give you today are to be on your
books from family members. We would also go to thrift
hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them
stores to purchase more books and would read them to him.
when you sit at home and when you walk along the road,
We now have more material we can use to teach him more
when you lie down and when you get up” (Deuteronomy
about our wonderful Lord and Savior.
6:6-7). Indeed, plant the seed and God will make it grow.
This year during Easter, my son took notice of my was and as clear as day, he answered, “Jesus died on the cross.” We all were flabbergasted. Before this, my son
40 // August 2021
About The Author
mother-in-law’s cross necklace. She asked him what it Nikki Hill hopes to use all that she has learned and her spiritual gifts for the kingdom of God, all while becoming a better wife, mother, and neighbor as God calls her.
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Gò0dNews for your Taste Buds
Summer Corn Salad
A fresh, healthy, and delicious accompaniment to any summer time picnic or evening cook out—a staple your whole family will enjoy! by Tim Marcum
Ingredients
Instructions
• 2 ears of fresh corn
1. Cut the corn kernels from ears.
• 2 Roma tomatoes, chopped
2. Toss the corn kernels with the Roma tomatoes, green onions, and jalapeno pepper in a medium sized bowl.
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced • ½ jalapeno pepper, seeded and finely chopped • 2 tablespoons of olive oil
3. Combine olive oil, lime juice, salt and pepper in a small bowl.
• 1 lime, juiced
4. Pour the olive oil mixture over the corn mixture.
• ½ teaspoon of salt
5. Toss and chill.
• ¼ teaspoon of pepper
6. Serve (and watch the smiles appear!)
When you try this recipe at home, or take your own spin on it, take a picture and share it with us on our Facebook community, @GoodNewsChristianMagazine.
42 // August 2021
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Gò0dNews from the IT Desk
Cyber Crime: The Next Pandemic?
“I
by Todd Looper
ranian hacking group Agrius pretends to encrypt
These guys find the weaknesses in your IT setup and hit you
files for a ransom, destroys them instead”—ZDNet,
like a yellowjacket, over and over again. Firms like mine
May 2021
can help you walk through the steps necessary to end the
“Colonial Pipeline hit with $5 million Ransomware”—
various, April 2021 “Dixie Group hit with Ransomware”—various, April 2021
nightmare of these events and also avoid them totally—so call the experts first. As an IT professional, I get asked all the time, “Todd,
“Kia Motors Reportedly Told to Pay Up in Latest
what can we do?” There are a few basic steps that are
Ransomware Attack, DoppelPaymer is demanding 404
absolutely critical to maintaining the best stance against
bitcoins worth approximately $20 million”— ZDNet, February 2021 You have seen the headlines just since 2021 began. After the craziest year (2020) in generations, and after all of humanity begged for calmness and sanity, now we get this—Cyber Crime on steroids! You are correct in thinking that this is not new, it is not new at all, but what has changed is the acceleration at which these cyber criminals are ramping up their twisted demands and skills. Over the years, it seems that these bad seeds are getting more brazen and frankly, they sometimes believe they are noble and just! Take the Colonial Pipeline incident this spring, Dark Side is the group claiming responsibility (though it is difficult to really prove), and these clowns claim to
these villains and their cyber-attacks. One, get up to date
have a mantra of stealing money from organizations that
hardware and software. Two, find a strong antivirus that
do not help the poor—actually stating that they donate
is monitored and updated. Three, backup your data in the
their bounty to needy groups. Nuts! I mean really nuts.
Cloud (one of my very favorite sayings is: “Jesus saves
Apparently, this group has been “made” and shut down by
and so should you”). Remember the Could is just someone
Interpol and others so we will see. The FBI generally does
else’s computer in a far away place so only you can find it.
not get involved with these crimes unless the demand is $1
Backing up on thumb drives or some cheapo outfit is the
million or more.
best way to be very disappointed down the road.
Local PD and the like really have no idea how to help
Reach out to me or another IT pro so that you can get
you if you are attacked. These criminals know this and we
ahead of this crimeware and what I believe is the next
have seen their ransom demands drop down below the
pandemic that will linger much more than a year!
million-dollar threshold—even down as low as $3,000-
Sources: Eset.com, Zdnet.com, and Usatoday.com
pay the ransom! If you pay up then your organization has done nothing to stop the attack from happening again.
44 // August 2021
About The Author
$4,000—so you will just be quiet and pay. By the way, never Todd Looper is the director of business development at InventureIT in Dalton, Georgia. He can be reached at 706-529-4638 or todd.looper@inventureIT.com
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
Spiritual Baggage
M
by Karen D. Jeffery
ost of us carry baggage in our minds.
and leave it all at the altar. Stop picking the
Sometimes, it is very hard to let go of
baggage up again and again.
our stuff and trust God. He alone will
“Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me,
carry it for us and will see us through to the other
for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will
side. Our internal baggage is even harder to let
find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and
go of it seems. You see, Satan says we need that
My burden is light” (Matthew 11:29-30).
baggage to keep us safe, or that it drives us to success, or that it makes us stronger. And since we
Our wearing comes from enduring the burdens of life. You may have a sickness, depression, pain, loneliness or more. Do not forget to pray and talk to someone. Do not be afraid to open up. “Cast thy burden upon the Lord, and He shall sustain thee; He shall never suffer the righteous to be moved” (Psalm 55:22). Here is another one of my favorite verses: “Casting all your care upon Him, for he careth for you” (1 Peter 5:7). God is going to give you
cannot see it, it can build up until the weight of it
that very opportunity. If God is working in your
is just too much to carry—and eventually it falls
heart and you know who you are, please do not
on us.
miss out on the greatest decision you will ever make. Come up to Christ and give all the burdens
us bound down with life and the pressures we
to Him. We can trust in God and He will always
have here on Earth. Although we face spiritual
be there to lead us in the right direction. He will
baggage, can it keep us from having a right
never leave us.
relationship with Christ? Just give it all to Him 46 // August 2021
About The Author
The enemy is so wrong—he wants to keep
Karen D. Jeffery lives in Chatsworth, Georgia, and loves the Lord. He is first in her life.
prescription needsand andlet letus usbecome become prescription needs your Hometown Hometown Independent IndependentPharmacy! Pharmacy!
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inPharmacy Newborn Gift Baskets • Shingles Vaccine Our Pharmacists: Dr.Specializing Jason P. Sneed, Manager •• Flu Flu Shots Shots • Cookie Cook, RPh. • Mark• Smith, RPh. •Flexible Dr. Tammy Houston We •Accept Spending We Accept Flexible
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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
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187648
(706) 259-7998 1100 Burleyson Road • Dalton, GA 323 S. Grimes St. (706) 278-2490 www.professionalpharmacydalton.com Dalton, GA 30721
Se Habla Español (Speak Spanish)
Gò0dNews
Christian Magazine
Mission Statement:
W
Writer Guidelines:
e believe when people are equipped,
Who: Our writers range from pastors, professors, and
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professional writers to stay at home moms and dads,
living out their faith in Jesus Christ they
business professionals, and others who have a desire to
have the potential to be world changers. Our mission is to bring people into a dynamic
relationship with Jesus Christ—a relationship that empowers them to see how God can work through individual personalities, situations, and talents. Christ was an activist, he did not neglect the needs of the people as He brought His message. We strive to encourage everyone to look more like Christ by reaching outside of themselves to serve the needs of others—at home, at school, in communities, and across the world.
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God Is My Everything by Judy Collins
I
would like to share a few things with you about who
thousand at thy right hand; but it shall not come nigh
God is to me. God is my everything. God is love. God
thee. Only with thine eyes shalt thou behold and see
is my best friend. God is my creator. God is my healer.
the reward of the wicked. Because thou has made the
There are so many things that God is to me that it would
Lord, which is my refuge, even the most High, thy
be difficult to list them all.
habitation; There shall no evil befall thee, neither shall
“He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say
any plague come nigh thy dwelling. For He shall give His angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways” (Psalm 91: 1-11). These verses assure me that I have no reason to fear. Isaiah 43:1-3 also tells me to fear not: “But now, this is what the Lord says—He who created you, Jacob, He who formed you, Israel: ‘Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you.
of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God;
When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned;
in Him will I trust. Surely He shall deliver thee from the
the flames will not set you ablaze. For I am the Lord your
snare of the fowler, and from the noisome pestilence. He
God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior’” (Isaiah 43:1-3).
shall cover thee with His feathers, and under His wings
What more do I need when I have a God who loves
shalt thou trust: His truth shall be thy shield and buckler.
me…He truly is my everything! Most of all, He is my
Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; nor for
Savior and my Redeemer.
walketh in darkness; nor for the destruction that wasteth at noonday. A thousand shall fall at thy side, and ten
50 // August 2021
About The Author
the arrow that flieth by day; Nor for the pestilence that Judy Collins lives in Dalton, Georgia. She is happy to have her family and her friends with her.
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