Gò0dNews January 2022
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DALTON & CHATSWORTH
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About Us WRITERS
Amy Eaton Andrew Lee Brenda Dedmon Brent Goodge Brian Johnson Chad Van De Griek Chase Holtzclaw Chris Mullis Janise Copeman Jordan Burchette Judy Hood Karen Jeffery Kristen West Kyle Blevins Matt Jensen Monica Gambrell Pam Wattenbarger Patton Locke Paul McGuire Sandra Gilmore Wayne Williams
SALES
Shane Franks 706-270-2410 Email: dalton.goodnews@gmail.com
DESIGN
Caleb Prytherch Email: art.goodnews@gmail.com
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. GoodNews Christian Magazine is a complimentary, Christian lifestyle publication. You can find us throughout the community in retail establishments,
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Contents
JANUARY 2022
GoodNews from the Pastor’s Desk
6 Why Is It So Hard to Pray Out Loud?
by Chris Mullis
GoodNews for Kids
8 Indoor Winter Party by Brenda Dedmon
GoodNews Money Matters
10 Fitness, Finances, and Faith by Andrew Lee
GoodNews for Men
12 Stand Your Ground by Kyle Blevins
GoodNews for Women
14 For The Weary by Amy Eaton
GoodNews for Everyone
18 Repentance is Partial by Matt Jensen
GoodNews for Everyone
20 Christ is Willing to Restore You
by Patton Locke GoodNews for Life
22 Squirrely Birthday by Monica Gambrell
GoodNews for Parents
24 What A $40 Jogging Stroller Taught Me
by Jordan Burchette GoodNews Cover Story
26 Home Lenders of Georgia by Jodi Varnado
GoodNews for Everyone
28 New Beginnings by Brent Goodge
GoodNews for Grandparents
30 The Arrival
by Wayne Williams
GoodNews for Everyone
32 A New Start
by Brian Johnson
GoodNews for Everyone
34 Little Is Much
by Karen D. Jeffery
GoodNews for Everyone
36 Why Do We Fear?
6
by Chase Holtzclaw
GoodNews for Everyone
38 The Joy of January by Sandra Gilmore
GoodNews for Everyone
40 Deserted at The Cross by Kristen West
GoodNews for your Taste Buds
42 The Best Flourless Chocolate Cake
by Pam Wattenbarger GoodNews Poetry
26
44 Soar With the Eagles by Judy Hood
GoodNews for Seniors
46 What’s Your Mountain? by Paul McGuire
GoodNews for Everyone
48 New Horizon
by Janise Copeman
GoodNews for Everyone
50 Kicks and Kindness
by Chad Van De Griek
48
Gò0dNews from the Pastor’s Desk
Why Is It So Hard to Pray Out Loud? ecently I was asked, “Why is it so hard to pray out loud?” Some people don’t mind praying out loud. Others are terrified by it! Don’t feel bad if you struggle to pray out loud. It’s a very common struggle, even for deeply committed Christians. I’ve even known pastors who struggled to pray out loud—especially at the beginning of their ministries. So, if you are a pastor and church leader, you should always check with people before you put them on the spot and ask them to pray out loud. Even if you think you know someone, check with them first if you’ve never heard them pray out loud. Now, let me give you some tips to help if you struggle to pray out loud. Tip Number 1—Practice Practice praying out loud when you’re alone. It may surprise you, but most people aren’t used to hearing the sound of their own voice. And hearing your voice when everyone else in the room is completely silent can really weird you out. So, practice praying out loud at home when you’re all alone. God will love it and no one else will know. And practice makes perfect. Tip Number 2—Pray for Dinner Start by praying for dinner while alone or with your family. This is how I learned how to pray out loud when I was a kid. My parents prayed for the meal and sometimes they asked the kids to pray. We simply copied them and prayed something like: “God is great! God is good! Let us thank Him for our food! Amen.” A simple meal blessing like this is easy to remember. From this, I became accustomed to praying out loud and it was easy to progress to prayers
6 // January 2022
for other occasions as I grew older. This is a great way to train your own kids to pray and it can help you too. Start a family habit of praying before your meals, even when you go out to eat in a restaurant. It’s a good spiritual practice for your family. Let your kids in on the fun while they’re young. It will bless your family in so many ways and help you and your kids learn to pray out loud. Tip Number 3—Just Talk to God You don’t have to sound like the preacher at church. Just be yourself. God isn’t looking for fancy language. He just wants you to be you. Some of the best prayers I’ve heard were in plain language that sounded like a friend talking to a friend. So just be yourself. Tip Number 4—Keep it short. Keep it simple. Trust me, no one is going to complain your prayer was too short. People like short prayers! Don’t try to go on and on. Just say what you need to say and be done. In fact, it’s perfectly okay to memorize a short standard prayer you can use. Start with a standard, basic prayer and add anything specific you need to pray. When I was growing up, I had a basic prayer that went like this: “Dear God, thank you for everything You’ve given me and done for me. Please heal anyone who is sick, comfort those who are grieving, and forgive our sins. In Jesus Name. Amen.” So, you can pray something simple like this and if you think of anything specific, just add that in too. Praying out loud can be hard when you first start, but the more you practice and the more you pray, the easier it will be. So, let’s pray right now: “Jesus, help everyone reading this to learn to pray out loud. Amen.”
About The Author
R
by Chris Mullis
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.
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Gò0dNews for Kids
Indoor Winter Party
W
by Brenda Dedmon
hen January brings wintry weather, it is difficult to find fun things to do. Ask your parents if they would help you plan an “Indoor Winter
Party” and invite your friends to come for a fun event. The following are activities that would make a fun party! Pin the Nose on the Snowman To play this game, you will need to draw three circles for a snowman on a poster board. Draw a nose on the snowman. Cut out noses from orange
Donuts on a Stick You will need the following items: miniature powered white donuts (3 per child), black jellybeans (6 per child), orange jellybeans (1 per child), strawberry Fruit Roll-Ups, (1 per child), paper candy sticks (1 per child). Have each person place the donuts on the candy stick. The black jellybeans are for buttons and eyes. The orange jellybeans are for the noses. Fruit Roll-Ups are for the scarf and mouth.
construction paper. Print the name of each person on the noses. Secure a blindfold for the game. Blindfold one person and lead them to the board to place their nose on the snowman. Continue until everyone has had a turn. The winner is the one that is the closest to where the nose should be. Candy Dice To play this game, you will need a dice and a bag of assorted miniature candy. Give each player four pieces of candy and place the remaining candy in a pile on the table. Each person will take a turn rolling the dice. The following are the instructions for the number person to your left, 3 Pick two pieces from candy pile, 4 Skip your turn, 5 Take a piece from someone, 6 Put one piece back to the pile. The winner will be the person who gets ten pieces of candy first. Ice Sculptures Before the party, freeze water with various food colors in assorted sizes and shapes of plastic cups, bowls, muffin tins, and cake pans. Minutes before doing the activity, have your parents remove the ice from the containers by running warm water on them. Place plastic tablecloths on the tables. Allow each child to use the ice to make ice sculptures. Be sure to take pictures of the sculptures.
8 // January 2022
Strawberry Hot Chocolate You will need to ask your parents to make this to enjoy with your donut snack. The following are the ingredients: 1 cup of sliced strawberries, ¼ cup sugar, 2 cups of milk, ½ cup of white chocolate morsels. In a small bowl, place the sugar over the strawberries and set them aside for 10 minutes, then puree in a food processor. Heat the milk and chocolate over medium low heat until the chocolate has melted. Add strawberries and cook for 2 more minutes. We read in Ecclesiastes 3:11, “God has made everything beautiful for its time.” Even on cold, dreary days, we can still enjoy fun times with friends. About The Author
rolled: 1 Pick one piece from candy pile, 2 Give a piece to the
Rev. Brenda Dedmon is the retired director of the Children’s Learning Center, First Baptist of Dalton and an avid Roll Tide fan.
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Fitness, Finances, and Faith 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.
A
s we enter 2022, the New Year’s resolutions have been made once again, and loftier personal goals have been set. Very likely, some of these resolutions involve money and fitness. Save more money this year! Make a budget and stick to it! Invest more for retirement! Pay off debts! Exercise daily and eat more veggies! Lose X number of pounds! Remember Ben Franklin’s famous maxim, “Early to bed, early to rise, makes a man (and woman) healthier, wealthier, and wise.” Let’s explore the relationship between fitness and finances in order to be both healthier and wealthier this year (making you wiser, as well). Hal Elrod’s 2012 book The Miracle Morning has been cited by countless millionaires as a key to financial success. The book recommends waking up early in order to have time to prepare your mind, body, and soul for whatever challenges and opportunities you may encounter each day. One of the recommended activities each morning is exercise. Whether this involves cardio, weightlifting, yoga stretches, or a combination of all three, numerous studies reveal that many financially successful (wealthy) people regularly begin each morning with exercise. In fact, these people feel strongly that staying physically fit is essential to their financial success. Many of the millionaires surveyed said that regular exercise lowers their stress levels and increases their energy levels which consequently allows them to think clearly and creatively about business deals and investments—directly impacting their finances. Many financially successful people are what we’d call “hard charging go-getters”; they are always in motion, physically and mentally, so physical fitness is invaluable to their lifestyles and decision-making. Consider other important connections between fitness and finances. Both areas involve disciplined behavior—
10 // January 2022
exercising daily, monitoring your diet and nutrition, monitoring your spending and saving habits, regularly investing, paying attention to your weight and net worth to ensure you’re on track to meet your fitness and finance goals. It won’t just happen by chance or luck—fitness and financial success require intentionality, persistence, and a plan. Both areas also involve “delayed gratification” because you likely won’t notice major benefits until some time has passed. It takes a while to see weight loss and clothes fitting more loosely, and it takes a while to pay off debts and to see investments and net worth growing significantly. This is where faith comes in. Hebrews 11:1 reminds us that faith is the “evidence of things not seen” (yet). Unless you believe that your efforts and discipline will eventually pay off, odds are you won’t stick with it. Since March of 2021, I’ve lost about forty pounds and am now at the same weight and pants as when I was a college student. I’ve been using the Noom system which is really just an incredibly simple mindset shift of how to eat and to think about mealtimes. Some of the “tricks” include slowing down and eating more “mindfully” to enjoy each bite (no screentime during meals—no TV, no scrolling on your phone); just eat quietly without distractions. Another “hack” is to try eating with your less dominant hand which makes you slow down naturally because it’s awkward. Notice how this “slow down” mindset also applies to finances, like the advice to “sleep on it” instead of making sudden impulse purchases. What’s the best workout? Easy—it’s the workout you just finished! A completed workout is done, “in the books,” and moving you toward better fitness. Likewise, what’s the best investment? It’s the one you already had auto-drafted out of your paycheck and invested into your retirement plan without you even realizing it! When it comes to fitness and finances, “Done is better than perfect!”
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Gò0dNews for Men
Stand Your Ground
M
by Kyle Blevins
en, as leaders in our families, our businesses,
firm in the faith. Be courageous. Be strong.” Even if
churches, or other causes, are often charged
you feel refreshed, this can still be quite the challenge.
with a generalized expectation to “stand firm.”
Unfortunately, even as strong men, we are very reward-
I believe this expectation is a hopeful one where people
driven beings. Even as leaders, there must be some cause
need to have someone to rely on. Most men will stand
for us to fight for ourselves and others. This charge from
up to this challenge, but even in doing so, I have known men in my life who take this to the extreme in both unhealthy, but also inspiring ways. Some have taken that to mean not “feeling” at all, while others have neglected themselves mentally and physically to set out what they aim to do. At the end of the day, that kind of standing firm does well to serve the hidden master of pride, but little to solidify the foundation which would actually carry us through. That is the foundation of faith. As I think about different situations people might expect us to stand firm in, the only one that remains worth standing for is that of spiritual and moral excellence, of faith. If standing your ground doesn’t maintain a level
1 Corinthians 16:13 may need another “boost” and I
of security, of spiritual well-being, or of a sharpened
believe Romans 5:3-5 can give us just that. It reminds
vision for that which you are leading, then not standing
us of all the rewards for fighting through the right
firm is not weakness—it is wisdom. I share that because
thing. “We know that suffering produces perseverance;
I know some men who have tried to cling to every little
perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope
opportunity that comes their way. If they don’t control in
does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been
excellence all that finds its way to them, then they are less
poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who
of a man. I pray today that lie is identified, spoken to, and
has been given to us.”
cast out. Now that we have filtered out what should really be stood for, you should feel renewed energy already
I pray that you are nourished in your spirit today, that you filter down where you wish your excellence to be, and that the Holy Spirit be with you in all you aim to do.
than you realized as you focused on something more special. 1 Corinthians 16:13 says, “Be on guard. Stand
12 // January 2022
About The Author
about standing firm. Perhaps you have more in the tank Kyle Blevins is a husband and a father of three boys. He enjoys connecting with the world through skateboarding and music. Apart from his day job, he is a freelance writer and aspiring author. You can follow his work at iamredirected.com.
Gò0dNews for Women
For The Weary
“A
by Amy Eaton
thrill of hope, a weary world rejoices.” Though those words were penned by
Adolphe Adam in 1847 when he wrote “O
Holy Night,” they still hit home for many of us today. It’s been a hard few years, and 2021 was one I found myself in the depths of grief often. Losing loved ones and friends, missing loved ones far away, and experiencing multiple significant changes has left me weary. I know many whom are also weary from all the weight they feel from difficult days, sickness, grief, and heartache. My point is: the world is still weary… All this ongoing weariness takes a toll on our bodies, minds, and souls. Study the science of stress and you’ll quickly learn that lack of rest and increased stress levels can make you more prone to sickness and even depression. God designed our bodies to need rest. He even went as far as to model the importance Himself during creation week. Jesus was a beautiful example of practicing rest and prioritizing stillness with God. We too must make rest and stillness with God a priority to be the best, most healthy versions of ourselves. I love that Jesus reminds us that we can come to Him for true rest in Matthew 11:28-30. While His instruction is speaking to practical and physical rest, it’s also much deeper than that. When we refuse to pause or prioritize rest, we are in essence saying “I can’t rest, everything is resting upon my shoulders.” This is like saying we can do it without God. Yikes! I’m guilty at times, too. But when I am willing to be aware of this mistaken self-sufficiency, I am then able to remember that any good things I accomplish are because of Christ’s sufficiency within me (Philippians 4:13 AMPC). When I’m tired, He welcomes me lovingly to receive His rest. He welcomes, you too: “Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life.
company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly” (Matthew 11:28-30 MSG). Beloved, as we embark on a new year and the possible busyness it brings, please remember to make time to rest with your Savior. Remember that you can do far more with what’s left of your days through spending time with Him, than you could ever do in your own strength. Bring Him your burdens, and make the exchange. Receive His rest. Keep company with Him as you learn to live freely and lightly. Looking for a simple devotional to help you focus on rest? Check out REST: Choosing Peace, Growth, and Learning Holy Rest on Amazon or other online retailers for a short monthly devotional with weekly Bible study, by Amy Eaton.
with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep
14 // January 2022
About The Author
I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work Amy Eaton has a passion for loving people and helping them see their worth and value in Christ. She hopes her writings will be an encouragement and point people to the heart of God (Acts 20:24).
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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 // January 2022
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 244 N. Hamilton St, 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 879 College Dr, 30720 Conference Room 3 706-313-1129 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 Northwest Christian Fellowship 272 Main St, Varnell, GA 30756 706-694-9830 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
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 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 Everyone
Repentance is Partial
R
by Matt Jensen
epentance is a word that has fallen out of favor.
whole life as repentance. Christian, there is not one area
It is unpopular because it requires change—it
of your life that is beyond the need for repentance! We do
requires one to practically acknowledge Christ’s
not master one area of our lives and move on to the next.
lordship by submitting to Him. Repentance is often
We struggle forward in all areas of life until we die or Jesus
misunderstood as well. Many emphasize “selling all you
comes back.
have” without speaking of the “treasure in the field”
Sanctification—growing in Christlikeness—is a
(Matt 13:44). Repentance is an evangelical grace, which
process; therefore, repentance in one sense is a process. If
means it happens because of the gospel and by the grace
you have experienced the grace of God in the gospel, you know this to be true. You hate sin more today than when you first repented. You have a deeper sense of the holiness of God and your own sinfulness. In fact, many Christians say that the closer they are to God, the more sin they discover in themselves. “If we say we have no sin,” John says, “we decide ourselves” and call God a liar (1 Jn. 1:8, 10). But “if we confess our sins,” God will “forgive us our sins” and “cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 Jn. 1:9). Christians are never called to pretend that they are perfect, including in repentance. Christians are called to a life of confessing
of the gospel. One finds invaluable treasure then joyfully
and repenting of sin, and of trusting in the advocacy of
gives up everything to have it. The order is important!
“Jesus Christ the righteous” (1 Jn. 2:1).
Repentance is giving one’s entire self to Christ because Christ is
Since repentance is partial, let me leave you with two
better than anything else. In previous articles, we considered
implications: (1) we will never be finished repenting in this
the necessity and completeness of repentance. Now, let’s
life, and (2) we can never place faith in our repentance.
consider the incompleteness of repentance.
Regarding the latter, can you say with the saints of old, “I
True repentance is also partial. I know that sounds
need to repent of my repentance?” (Bennett, The Valley of
contradictory but let me explain. When I say repentance
Vision). Regarding the former, where does God call you
is complete, I mean that there is not an area of a person
to repentance?
that it is never perfect (this side of Heaven) in any part of a person. This is why Martin Luther describes the Christian’s
18 // January 2022
About The Author
it doesn’t reach. When I say repentance is partial, I mean Matt Jensen is a missionary from Reformation Baptist Church in Dalton, Georgia. He and his wife, Danielle, are preparing to move to Thailand soon with their son, Judah. They are also anticipating the birth of another son, Gabriel.
Church Activities & Events First United Methodist Church
DFUMC 5th & 6th Grade Created By God! Thursday, January 27 - Saturday, January 29 S Thornton Ave, Dalton, GA
Thankful Missionary Baptist Church Men In Prayer
Saturday, January 1 | 8AM - 9AM 980 N Orchard Knob Ave, Chattanooga, TN
Burks United Methodist Church
Children’s Ministry Homeless Collection Sunday, January 9 | 3PM 6433 Hixson Pike, Hixson, TN
Cornerstone Baptist Church The Agee Family
Sunday, January 16 | 11AM 5479 TN-58, Chattanooga, TN
Gò0dNews for Everyone
Christ is Willing to Restore You
I
by Patton Locke
t’s usually easier to believe that the Lord can forgive other’s failures than it is to receive His grace in our own lives. We tell ourselves, God will forgive that person,
but I have blown it this time! It is so tempting to believe that these lies are in fact our reality. But, a look at the verbal apostasy and restoration of Peter reveals the kind heart of the Good Shepherd. We know Peter to be the bold, courageous, and often ignorant disciple. Not only is Peter chosen to be Jesus’ disciple, but he is chosen out of the Twelve to be a part of
Three observations: 1. The fearless leader becomes a coward when being questioned by an insignificant servant girl. 2. Peter calls Christ “the man” after having boldly declared Him to be the Son of God. 3. Peter would rather be cursed than profess the name of Jesus. Peter wants absolutely nothing to do with Christ. But all this time, Jesus is preparing to be killed so that He may forgive Peter. Whatever evil you may have committed, Peter has you beat. He has totally abandoned the Messiah that he so bravely confessed he would die with. The bold disciple is now the verbal apostate. But thanks be to God that He didn’t leave Peter in his desperate state and He hasn’t left you in yours either. After the Resurrection, Jesus is having breakfast with the disciples. I am sure that Peter can hardly look Jesus in the face without remembering every detail of the dreadful night he denied his Lord three times. While Jesus had paid for Peter’s sin of denial on the cross, Jesus wanted to take forgiveness to the next level: restoration. Jesus restores Peter for each of the three times
Jesus’ “inner ring” of three. Peter is truly favored by Jesus. Peter is the one who unashamedly proclaims Jesus as the Christ (Mk 8:29, Lk 9:20, Mt 16:16). Jesus says that Peter’s ability to even make this confession is a revelation from God (Mt 16:17). In John 6:68-69, Peter understands Jesus to have “the words of eternal life.” Even as Jesus predicts Peter’s denial, Peter confidently responds that he would die with Christ before he ever thought about denying him (Mt 26:35). Given Peter’s walk with Jesus up to this point, Jesus’ prediction surely does seem to be a little out of character for Peter. Yet, the fateful night comes and Peter flat out denies his Lord. The actual severity of Peter’s denial is seen in Matthew 26:71-74.
20 // January 2022
he had previously denied Him (John 21:15-17). In his restoration, He gives him the charge of shepherding the flock of disciples. From a worldly perceptive it makes no sense to appoint the man who abandoned, deserted, and denied the Messiah as the new shepherd of the sheep! Some of us may think that even allowing Peter back into the Twelve is a leap, but making him the new leader?! For every one of your failures, Jesus doesn’t just stand ready to forgive you but to restore you. He is willing to take your brokenness and create such a beautiful story that doesn’t make sense to the world! Come to Christ in true repentance and experience His kindness, mercy, and restoration.
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Gò0dNews for Life
Squirrely Birthday
T
by Monica Gambrell
hings rarely go exactly as we had planned them, do
but not cold and the sun was bright and beautiful. When
they? For a recovering control freak, this can be very
most of us were weary, we decided to return to our picnic
disconcerting—ha ha. Partly because I had such a
table. We had packed away all of the leftover food (so as
broken and unconventional childhood experience, I worked
not to attract critters) but had left Rebekah’s plastic-covered
very hard at creating traditions, memories, and experiences
strawberry cake on the table. As we drew near to the table,
that would bring happiness into the lives of my children.
we all questioned ourselves as to what we were witnessing.
Happiness though is not the same thing as joy. Happiness is
Then it became hilariously clear. A very bold little squirrel
rooted in our circumstances. If all is well, we can be happy.
had reached across the top of the cake, dug his little paws
But joy is deeper still. Joy is fruit of the Holy Spirit. When
past the plastic wrap and into the center of the cake, and was stuffing his mouth with as much cake as his now engorged cheeks could hold! We all burst into hearty and uncontrolled laughter. I’m afraid little Rebekah was a bit confused, but the sight of a squirrel with pink icing covering his face was just too much. We told Bekah that the squirrel might have thought it was his birthday too, and she was satisfied. It makes me so happy that our Heavenly Father gifts us with sweet moments like this for us to enjoy… but is happiness enough? I think not. Not every human has equal amounts of pain and challenge in his or her life. We need something that transcends the horrific things that sometimes enter our lives. We need a deep, refreshing, healing, constant river of joy flowing through our souls. And that joy comes only through
He indwells us, we no longer have to rely on outward
a relationship with the one true God. If you have tried
stimulus; we possess it inwardly!
external ways to fill the empty ache we have all experienced,
As our family found our individual ways to enjoy life we discovered hiking—not rigorous professional hiking, but leisurely hikes through the mountains. I tried to
try filling that God-shaped hole with the only thing that was made to fill it—God. Gal. 5:22-23, “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace,
remain continually aware of possible teaching moments
patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-
as we hiked. I hoped that any knowledge passed between
control; against such things there is no law.”
us would open a discussion about the Creator. On one excursion to Fort Mountain, we had an odd experience. We decided to celebrate Rebekah’s 3rd birthday with a picnic
Psalm 51:8, “Let me hear joy and gladness, Let the bones You have broken rejoice.” Romans 14:17, “For the kingdom of God is not eating
replete with cake. Her birthday is in April, so the park near
and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the
the playground was completely devoid of people. After
Holy Spirit.”
having our picnic, we decided to hike for a bit. It was chilly
22 // January 2022
Father God, may we never cease to give praise to You for giving us the source of joy—Your Holy Spirit!
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Gò0dNews for Parents
What A $40 Jogging Stroller Taught Me by Jordan Burchette
I
have been taking advantage of our local greenway each
I stayed in a constant state of fear and panic during
morning after breakfast. I load my two kids in the car and
that time of their lives. What if someone snatched them
head to the park. The walk is peaceful, as the greenway is
up? What if they fell off of the swings or slide? These were
surrounded by thick trees, a gently flowing river, and many
questions that kept me at home, free from danger. Even
beautiful stops along the way, including a duck refuge.
when we were home, I rarely went outside for longer than
It is a perfect way to start one’s day, especially with two
an hour. What if they got mauled by a dog? Or what if
littles full of energy upon waking up each morning. After a
they got hit by a car? Many of the fears were completely
few days of enjoying the local landscape, they started to get
irrational, but I couldn’t see it at that time.
lazy. “We don’t want to walk anymore,” they whined. “My legs hurt,” they grumpily complained. “We just want to go
Isn’t that how life goes? We don’t always see God using those seasons to mold us at the time.
to the park,” they griped. So, in true Type-A fashion, I decided to “kill two birds with one stone.” I would run/ walk while the kids enjoyed the bumpy ride and then finish our morning exercise at the end of the track, where a beautiful playground was conveniently located. A win for all of us! I wanted a basic jogging stroller to run with and scored one on Facebook Marketplace for $40. I arranged a pick-up time with the seller and stuffed the lightly-used stroller into the back of my SUV. We headed towards the park, where I proceeded to fumble with the new stroller for ten minutes until I finally figured out how to use it. Once I finally got the stroller opened, locked, and
Now, several years later, I see how far God has brought
packed full of snacks and water bottles, we took off down
me. Somewhere in the last few years, I woke up and realized
the greenway. I walked for a few minutes to warm my
I wanted to be the mom that went out and really lived life
calve muscles up, and then I took off jogging, pushing
with her kids. I didn’t want to be a slave to fear any longer,
them as I jogged.
nor did I want to pass that fear onto my children. I want
As I was walking, I looked down at both of my kids, and
them to watch me live life even if I am scared. This morning,
my mind immediately returned to a few years ago when
I read my Bible and read about Jesus casting out demons that
we lived in Greenville, South Carolina. Isn’t it strange how
knew and feared Him because they knew who He was and
certain moments trigger memories? Our youngest was a
how powerful He was. Jesus, in the same chapter, rebuked a
baby, and our oldest was probably two or two and a half
storm. That is the God I, and hopefully, you, serve.
when we lived in that beautiful city. I remembered how I mile run/walk on a wooded greenway. I barely went outside in general, to be honest.
24 // January 2022
About The Author
would have never ventured out to take both kids on a three-
Jordan Burchette writes stories to encourage, inspire, and challenge others. When she isn’t writing, she is running her small business, enjoying time with her family, and drinking coffee. You can follow her blog at www.thewordsofjordannoel.com.
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Home Lenders of Georgia
A
by Jodi Varnado
ccording to the National Association of Realtors, the
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2020-2021, homebuyers were met with low interest and mortgage
looking for.
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Their experienced staff is accessible to clients seven days a
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Home Lenders of Georgia has been serving the Dalton
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The team will guide you through financial questions,
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26 // January 2022
6. Furnishing and Appliances—Although you might have to buy appliances or furniture for your new home, it would be best to do this after closing. Get To Know Your Home Lenders of Georgia Team: Ana Ortiz—Mortgage Loan Officer “I have been in the mortgage industry for nineteen years and with HLGA for four months. My job is very rewarding. I love helping buyers achieve homeownership and I specialize in first time homebuyers. I feel strongly that everyone deserves the opportunity to purchase their own home, and here at HLGA, we have a variety of down payment assistance programs that fit just about anyone’s needs. I have been married to Rafael Ortiz (realty with Keller Williams/Team Paniagua) for twenty-eight years. I have four children and I am a blessed grandmother to my beautiful two-yearold granddaughter, Adalyn Elizabeth Fraire-Ortiz. She and her Home Lenders of Georgia invests in the community,
mom, Elizabeth Fraire, have been the best blessings and additions
partnering with organizations such as HOPE Atlanta and Virtuous
to my family.”
Women Life Academy to provide support and education to
Juana Hernandez Sierra—Loan Officer Assistant
those in need. Partnering with these outreach programs, whether
“I started with Home Lenders of
through financial donations or volunteering, allows Home Lenders
Georgia in August of 2021 thanks to Ana
of Georgia to educate the community on debt, credit score,
Ortiz. She gave me the opportunity to start
homebuying, and homeownership. The staff plans to volunteer
alongside her in the Dalton office as her
more in the new year, and begin a Home Lenders of Georgia
Loan Officer Assistant. I enjoy working in
YouTube channel to create educational videos, including tips for
this line of work because I love meeting
purchasing and what to expect content.
new faces and helping them achieve their
If now is the time to consider buying a new home or you are
dream of being a first-time homebuyer. It
ready to refinance your current home, contact Home Lenders of
is very exciting to be a part of their journey as they achieve one of
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their accomplishments in life. I have been together with my loving
Dalton, GA. Home Lenders of Georgia also serves the Alpharetta
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to set up an appointment. Let Home Lenders of Georgia help your
Adriana Martinez—Mortgage Loan Processor
homebuying dreams come true in 2022! Home Lenders of Georgia’s Financial Checklist: 1. Closing Costs—This cost includes loan origination fees,
“I am a high school graduate from Dalton High School. I have lived in Dalton my whole life. I am a single mom to a
discount points, appraisal fees, title searches, title insurance,
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and for her to have a better future. I began
2. Down Payment—This payment is the difference between
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your mortgage amount and the purchase price of your
year. I previously worked as a Loan Officer
home.
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3. Insurance—This can be Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) or a Mortgage Insurance Premium (MIP). 4. Earnest Money—This amount is an upfront deposit that is applied to your down payment or closing costs. 5. Property Tax—This tax is determined by the municipality you reside in and is based on the property’s value.
of faith in me and trained me to process loans. They believed in me and allowed me to take a step I had been wanting to take. It is always so rewarding to see someone buy their first home. I love my job and what I do. Becoming a homeowner is an accomplishment many people have and it’s amazing being a part of the process.”
goodnewscm.com // 27
Gò0dNews for Everyone
New Beginnings
N
by Brent Goodge
ew Year. 2022. Wondering how we can go back to
shine out of darkness, who has shown in our hearts to give
a pre-Covid, pre-Zoom, pre-arguing over vaccines
the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face
and masks kind of life. But to get to a real new
of Jesus Christ” (2 Corinthians 4:6). If Christ cannot speak
beginning, let’s go back to earth’s actual beginning. “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the
physical light into existence, how could He ever create light in the hearts of His enemies? (Romans 5:8). What right
earth” (Genesis 1:1). We live in a world where the Genesis account of Creation is considered a myth. Those who believe the God of Heaven spoke and things happened are thought to be ignorant. The words of Genesis 1 and 2 are echoed throughout the Bible. When speaking the Ten Commandments, God pointed to the seven-day week as continual evidence that He alone is our Creator (Exodus 20:8-11). When identifying Himself as the only true God, the Bible points to His creative power (Psalm 33:8, 9). When Paul explained the “Unknown God” to the wisest men of Athens, he told of the One who “made from one blood every nation of men” (Acts 17:26). The arguments against Biblical Creation, rather than weakening the faith of the faithful, should strengthen it. Peter foretold that in the last days scoffers would “willfully forget that by the Word of the
or power would He have, were He not our Creator, to be
Lord the heavens were of old, and the earth standing out of
our Savior? To fulfill His New Covenant promise to write
water and in the water, by which the world that then existed
His law in our hearts and remember our sins no more?
perished, being flooded with water” (2 Peter 3:5, 6). Who
(Hebrews 10:16, 17).
should we believe? The scoffers who have grown in strength
The final messages of warning to planet earth call all
over the past 175 years? Or the God who prophesied their
humanity to worship Jesus Christ as our Creator. This call
coming 2000 years ago?
depicts Creation as an integral part of the everlasting gospel
As Christians, we must realize that Satan’s attack on Creation is an attack on Jesus Christ Himself. At least three
of Jesus Christ (Revelation 14:6, 7). As sinners, our only Hope is in our Creator, our Re-
times, the New Testament clearly identifies Jesus as the
Creator, Jesus Christ. “Create in me a clean heart, O God,
One who spoke our physical world into existence (John 1:3;
and renew a steadfast spirit within me” (Psalm 51:10). Trust
Colossians 1:16; Hebrews 1:2). Doubting the Genesis account
Him to re-create your heart today.
But there’s an even greater story of beginnings that the Bible portrays. “For it is God who commanded light to
28 // January 2022
About The Author
is to question the power and honesty of Jesus Christ Himself. Brent Goodge lives in Whitfield County and wants Christ to re-create a new heart in him every day (1 Corinthians 15:31).
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Gò0dNews for Grandparents
The Arrival by Wayne Williams
30 // January 2022
said, “When a woman is giving birth, she has pain, because her hour has come. But as soon as she delivers the child, she no longer remembers the anguish for joy that a child is born into the world” (John 16:21, MEV). Even now, I don’t know who is more relieved that this gestation cycle has come full term—me, my wife, or the baby’s parents. Certainly, the mother, our daughter. And yet, with serious consideration for her humorously stated, one would have thought our son-in-law gave birth!
Proclamation. Lastly, exclaiming to family and friends that we are grateful, proud, and finally “grandparents” is the only thing that outweighs the narrative of the delivery itself. Similarly, as believers in the Lord Jesus Christ, you and I have the duty, as did the early shepherds, to “[make] known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child” (Luke 2:17). As the expectation continues to evolve, the anticipation has ended, and the celebration has been ignited. All that remains is the perpetual proclamation. “But greater still the calm assurance [that] this child [as well as you and I] can face uncertain days because He lives!” concludes the verse of the beloved song penned by the famous songwriter Bill Gaither. Happy New Year everybody and make the most of its “arrival!” About The Author
“H
ow sweet to hold a newborn baby and feel the pride and joy he brings.” What celebratory words to calmly exclaim “the arrival” of an innocent newbie into an everchanging world, both indicative of God’s creative genius. Recently, my wife and I had the glorious experience to “hold” our newborn grandbaby. It is the first for us, and obviously the first child for her parents, our daughter Brittany, and her husband Dennis. I am happy to report that both mother and baby are healthy, and all are doing well at the present time. After years of hearing from our contemporaries, my wife and I now know why they are called “grand” children. Yes, because they are truly “Grand!” Following the highly festive holidays of Thanksgiving and Christmas while reflecting on our familial addition caused me to think more spiritually about what it means to have a new arrival. I have concluded that there is a beyond reasonable degree of expectation, anticipation, celebration, and proclamation. Expectation. And what are God’s expectations of me? Well, the prophet radically posted the same question and likewise submitted a transformative response when he declared, “And what does the Lord require of you? Only this: to do what is right, to show mercy, and to walk humbly with your God” (New Catholic Bible). Yes, my wife and I, as well as “Baby K’s” parents, have a proverbial laundry list of expectations of her. Likewise, and you can be sure she has and will well over into teen years, have expectations of them and us! Anticipation. After nine months of prayer, patience, and endless preparation, she, this bundle of joy, made her arrival. But not without much anticipation. The Bible provides numerous scripture references that infer Christ’s coming into the world, Genesis 3:15; Isaiah 7:14; 9:6; Matthew 1:21-23; Luke 1:26-33, to name a few. But it is Galatians 4:4 that addresses the anticipation question when the apostle Paul stated, “But when the fullness of time came, God sent forth His Son, born from a woman, born under the law” (Modern English Version). Celebration. And what would the birth of a newborn be without some rejoicing and sighs of relief? Jesus, Himself
Wayne & Lita Williams are residents of Athens, Tennessee. She is a retiring social worker. He presently serves as a local supply pastor. Together, they have been in pastoral and outreach ministry for over 40 years.
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
A New Start
2
by Brian Johnson
022. A new year and a new start. The new year always brings a time of reflection and evaluation. We think about our regrets, the things we want to
change, and the new person we want to be. The great thing about our relationship with God is that we can make those changes anytime. Proverbs 24:16 says, “For a just man falleth seven times, and riseth up again: but the wicked shall fall into mischief.” What I love about that verse is God knows we’re going to mess up. Even a just person is going to fall. “He remembereth that we are dust,” (Psalms 103:14). The problem isn’t the falling; the problem is when we stay down. I’m a big sports fan. My favorites are football and baseball. In football, there’s a position called defensive back. These players usually defend receivers one on one or, if you’re sports challenged, they try to stop other players from catching the ball when the quarterback throws it to them. Sometimes defensive backs will give up a big play. It’s part of playing that position. It’s going to happen from
sin among you, let him first cast a stone of her” (John 8:7).
time to time but if they dwell on the mistake, it will affect
After all of the men dropped their stones, Jesus told her to
the next play.
“go, and sin no more.”
When we mess up as Christians and stay down, it
David committed murder and adultery and he was
prevents God from being able to use us as affectively in the
called a man after God’s own heart. He’s also mentioned in
next situation or for the next person we meet that needs to
Christ’s genealogy in Matthew and Luke.
hear the Gospel. Don’t listen to the lies of Satan: you’re not good enough,
Paul, when he was Saul, persecuted and jailed Christians. He presided over the stoning of Stephen, and
God won’t forgive you, you could never come back from
God made him the apostle to the Gentiles. He wrote a
what you’ve done. Remember what Jesus said about the
large portion of the New Testament and took the Gospel to
Devil, “…there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie,
Europe. There are many examples!
he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar and the father of it” (John 8:44).
There’s nothing wrong with evaluations and resolutions. Just know, as long as you’re still breathing, God can, will,
Listen to the truth of God: you’re forgiven, you’re loved, if
and wants to use you, no matter what you’ve done. Get up,
you’re saved, you’re still His child and, according to Titus 1:2,
move forward. God’s not taking you out of the game. Don’t
God cannot lie.
take yourself out.
caught in the act of adultery. There were several men standing ready to stone her. Jesus said, “He that is without
32 // January 2022
About The Author
There’s a well-known story about a woman that was
Brian Edward Johnson is a deacon at his church and a nurse by vocation. He wants to do the best he can to teach people to trust God, for their eternity and for each day.
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
Little Is Much by Karen D. Jeffery
I
n the Bible, we read that Jesus left us a wonderful
sitting with His disciples near the temple treasury watching
example of a humbling experience: He washed the
people depositing money into the offering receptacles. The
disciples’ feet, a task that was usually done by the lowest
court of women held thirteen such receptacles, and people
servant. In those days, everyone’s feet were probably very
could cast their money in as they walked by. Jesus watched
dirty since they walked everywhere they needed to go
as the rich were contributing large sums of money, but along
unless they had a donkey or a camel.
came a widow with two small coins in her hand.
Jesus, the King of Kings, stopped and washed more than
The two small copper coins made a penny. Mark
His disciples’ feet. He even washed the feet of Judea, who
12:41 calls the coins “mites.” These were the smallest
would soon betray Him.
denomination of coins. The widow put her coins into the box, and Jesus called His disciples to Him and pointed out her action: “Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others. They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything—all she had to live on.” We must remember to give our all, even if it doesn’t seem like very much. Whatever we have a talent to do is our gift. We should do it with all we have because a little is much. Even though God doesn’t reward us for how
John 13:12-14, “So after he had washed their feet, and
much we can do for Him, but according to how willingly
had taken his garments, and was set down again, he said
we can do what we can. All He asks is we trust Him with
unto them, Know ye what I have done to you? Ye call me
all the aspects of our lives.
Master and Lord: and ye say well; for so I am. If I then, your
I pray we all will call these words into 2022 and refuse
Lord and Master, have washed your feet; ye also ought to
to reconsider a decision we know is right. Always give your
wash one another’s feet.”
all to Jesus. He gave us all He had when He gave His life for
By doing this, Jesus showed us He had a big purpose for
us on Calvary’s hill.
what He was doing. He wanted to teach us that no deed of In Mark 12:41-42, the poor widow gave little, but she was willing to give it all. Her reward was much. Jesus was
34 // January 2022
About The Author
brotherly love is unimportant, as any small thing. Karen D. Jeffery lives in Chatsworth, Georgia, and loves the Lord. He is first in her life.
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
Why Do We Fear?
F
by Chase Holtzclaw
or a long time, I have wondered, why do we fear
cannot live without fear and walk in faith, then the enemy
the future? What is it about fear that we let it take
has already crippled us. Without faith, we cannot stand for
full control over our thoughts and emotions, even
God much less have the courage to talk about the good news
affecting us physically? How can we let something we cannot see control every move we make? This question
of Jesus. We often have to step out in faith, but how can we when
led me to the most wonderful answer. It’s simple and has
the enemy tells us to be fearful of all these other things that
already been given to us. The word of God tells us to not
could happen, you might ask? God already tells us what we
fear what this world or man can do. The only thing we
are to do in His word and we should follow the example of
should fear is God and Him alone. I have always asked
Jesus. The enemy will come to you when you are susceptible
myself why would God want me to fear Him and why would a loving Father tell me to fear Him? God the Father wants us to fear Him and only Him because He knows that if we fear anything else it will have control over our lives. His will for our lives is perfect. When we work in our will, we mess things up. The enemy has a way of twisting will with fear. This kind of control with fear is the easiest and quickest way to control someone and the enemy knows this. This is why God our Father wants us to fear only Him. It is not because He wants us to be afraid of Him, it is because He loves us and He knows what we could fear will define our lives. The question we have to ask now is, how do we live a life without fear? The depth of this question can be simple to
to hearing his lies. Remember he is the ultimate liar after
some and complicated for others. Complications come when
all. Paul tells us, in 2 Corinthians 10:5, to take every thought
we are fearful of things and those things take over our lives.
captive to the obedience of Christ. Should we not take the
Fear begins to control us in many ways and can take our
fear captive in our minds? Fear can cause us to do some
lives away from what God wants for us. If you believe that
crazy things if we believe what we fear is actually real. I
we are in a spiritual battle that affects our reality around
urge you to take those thoughts captive, and in the name
us, then this will be easy for you to understand. The way
of Jesus tell them to leave you, until you can live your life
the enemy will try to place fear in you is simple. He will
without the fear the enemy is trying to feed you. Life is too
whisper into your ear and tell you things will not work out
short to waste on fear. Pray to God and ask for wisdom and
the way you want. He will tell you bad things will happen if
He will give it to you. Pray you have faith to step out when
you step out in faith. He will do these things through people
it is time and live your life as Jesus would. Let us step out
you trust and the world around you. Do these things sound
and glorify our Creator and walk without fear.
us. The enemy wants us to fear everything so he can control us. If we live our lives in fear, we cannot walk in faith. If we
36 // January 2022
About The Author
familiar to you? God wants us to fear Him because He loves
Chase Holtzclaw has three wonderful kids. God saved Chase’s life by showing him He has a better way. Chase prays that he can show his children how to love God above everything and to love their neighbor as themselves.
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
The Joy of January
T
by Sandra Gilmore
here’s a joy in January like no other month. Have you noticed that January, unlike other months,
has its own rhythm? Other months seem to adapt to
In fact, Scripture confirms this slower cadence of January and winter. In the Book of Job, we hear Elihu describing what the Lord set in motion: “He says to the snow, ‘Fall to the earth,’ and to the
schedules, wrap around agendas, even become the perfect
rain shower, ‘Be a mighty downpour.’ So that everyone He has
backdrop for gatherings or community events. Not January. This
made may know His work, He stops all people from their labor”
one-twelfth-of-the-year insists on having its own way.
(Job 37:6-7).
January can send a pop-up snowstorm in its sleep. It can
Isaiah connects winter’s snow with the Word of the Lord: “As
welcome balmy temps with open arms and then send them
the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return
packing as though their reservations ran out. January can embrace
to it without watering the earth and making it bud and flourish, so
ice as quickly as a diva dons diamonds.
that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater, so is my
So how is that joyful?
Word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty,
Not only does this month usher in the start of a new year,
but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for
January ushers in a cadence that’s unmistakable. Just about the time other voices are steadily and loudly raising cries to get
which I sent it” (Isaiah 55: 10-11). Psalms echoes that same process: “He spreads the snow like
motivated, gear up, and get stuff done, this top-of-the-year month’s
wool and scatters the frost like ashes. He hurls down his hail like
message whispers softly like snowfall. And like snowfall, there’s
pebbles. Who can withstand his icy blast? He sends his Word and
quite enough evidence that it’s on the scene. Snow’s blanket
melts them; he stirs up his breezes, and the waters flow” (Psalm
covers a multitude of sins—such as the front flowerbeds that
147: 16-18). As January escorts us to another trip around the
didn’t get weeded or the back deck that didn’t get painted in the
sun, how will you enjoy this winter? Ecclesiastes declares: “For
busy summer. Snow transforms the landscape into a white canvas
everything there is a season and a time for every purpose under
perfect for winter colors. There’s the ruby cardinal who flitters
heaven” (Ecclesiastes 3:1).
about finding both a perch and a provisional morsel. The emerald
Research hints at and even shows several benefits: We sleep
pines stand stoically with their evergreen branches. With the help
better in the colder months (or even in a colder room throughout
of the sun, the snow and ice explode with color, tiny prisms that
the year). With better rest, cold temperatures, and a slower pace,
turn loose grounded rainbows. There’s no doubt, a different season
our minds yield more creative ideas. We humans tend to postpone
is on the scene.
decisions or milestones in the summer, so winter could become the
In past centuries, society went by the Roman calendar which held 10 months, leaving winter or an extended “January” as one season with no delineated months. Romans considered winter a
season to work through projects or tackle obligations. What will you tackle? Or maybe, will you simply listen to the snow fall?
About The Author
time of peace without deliberate effort in agriculture or war.
38 // January 2022
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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Gò0dNews for Everyone
Deserted at The Cross
A
by Kristen West
re you on a faith journey? If so, here’s a little spoiler
Statistically, it’s been shown that people will avoid pain
alert—there will be countless times when you feel
at all cost. Yet, it’s also been noted that pain—hardships,
like you’re walking the path alone. For the last thirty-
difficulties, and problems—are the very areas where
five years of my life, I have been journeying with Jesus. Much
we tend to learn the best and take away the most. Life’s
of that time has been spent surrounded by people that love
deepest lessons are discovered there. In the heartbreak. In
me, care for me, and have “been there” for me. But, when
the problem. It was a truth even the Son of Man faced,
God has called me to pick up my cross (navigating divorce,
“Although He was a Son [who had never been disobedient
blending a family, dealing with the shadows of my past, and
to the Father], He learned [active] obedience through what
various other this-doesn’t-feel-good moments), it tends to be in a very personal and isolated kind of way. Now, before you all email me the contact information of your favorite Christian counselor, hear me out. Hours before Jesus was crucified, He had been praying in a garden with three of His closest friends. The burden of the next 24-hours was weighing heavily upon Him. The expectation of betrayal, abuse, and a violent execution had Jesus sweating blood. It was about to be His darkest hour. The Gospel of Mark gives us a snapshot as to the level of support Jesus received from His family and friends at this time. “Then they all deserted Him and ran away” (Mark 14:50). He was alone. As Christ-followers, we all face moments, seasons, and circumstances in our lives when it looks like we’ve
He suffered” (Hebrews 5:8, AMP). Jesus knew what it felt like to suffer…and be alone. He truly was. The good news is that we never are. His promise from
been abandoned and deserted by others. It feels like
Hebrews 13:5 that He’ll “never leave us or forsake us”
we’re facing the dark by ourselves. And, from a human
remains true and, following His resurrection, He even left
standpoint, we are. No one else can really understand
us with the Holy Spirit (also called the “Comforter” in John
what it feels like to navigate the pain of your miscarriage,
14:26)! Are you feeling alone today, friend? Isolated and like
the devastation of that trauma or addiction, or that
no one understands what you’re going through or how you’re
difficult medical diagnosis you received. No one else can
really feeling? May I introduce you to the One who never has
truly feel the weight of your broken marriage or prodigal
(or will) abandoned you? Let Him comfort and strengthen
child. Sure, friends can empathize; family can support;
you today. He sees you. He loves you. He is with you.
can (and will) feel very, very lonely.
40 // January 2022
About The Author
the church can pray. But only you can walk the path. It 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 your Taste Buds
The Best Flourless Chocolate Cake
T
by Pam Wattenbarger
his gluten-free recipe takes some time to prepare but the decadent chocolate taste is worth the wait! Use good quality chocolate chips for the best
results. Plan to make the cake in advance, as it needs to set for at least six hours before serving.
Ingredients • 1 ½ cups dark chocolate chips • 2 sticks butter, softened • 6 eggs, at room temperature • 1 cup sugar • ½ cup water • 1 tablespoon cornstarch • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract • ½ teaspoon salt • Whipped cream, optional • Chocolate shavings, optional
Instructions 1. Preheat the oven to 275 degrees. 2. In a medium microwave-safe bowl, add the chocolate and the butter. Heat for 1 minute at 50% power. Stir. Return to the microwave and heat for 1 to 2 more minutes, stirring after each minute, until the chocolate is melted. Set aside to cool for 5 minutes. 3. In a large bowl, mix together the eggs, sugar, water, cornstarch, vanilla extract and salt until blended. 4. Stir the chocolate mixture into the egg mixture. 5. Spray a springform pan with cooking spray. Pour the chocolate mixture into the pan. Leave the pan on the countertop for 10 minutes to allow air bubbles to rise to the top. Gently pop any air bubbles with a fork. 6. Bake the cake for 45 to 50 minutes. The edges should be set, but the center of the cake should still jiggle. 7. Let the cake cool for 20 to 30 minutes. Place the cake in the refrigerator for at least 6 hours or overnight until it is set.
42 // January 2022
About The Author
8. Before serving, top each piece with whipped cream and chocolate shavings, if desired.
Pam Wattenbarger is the author of The New Southern Cookbook: Classic Family Recipes and Modern Twists on Old Favorites & The Southern Air Fryer Cookbook. Find her recipes and more at SimplySouthernMom.com.
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Gò0dNews Poetry
Soar With the Eagles by Judy Hood
As you walk through this life, grab it by the horns You need to learn that from the day you are born The days go by so fast they will just pass you by And before you know it, you’ll be old with a sigh So, live your life, live it well, soar with the eagles, fly high Tap into your talents, don’t let the naysayers be your demise God has filled us with so much talent, if we just look deep within our soul We’ll learn who we are, we’ll find our life’s goal When you find your goal run with it, don’t ever look back To reach the pinnacle in your endeavors don’t ever slack Your reward is waiting over on the horizon When you achieve that, the sun will be a rising So, get up each morning, live your life to the full Always remember to live by the Golden Rule 44 // January 2022
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Gò0dNews for Seniors
What’s Your Mountain?
T
by Paul McGuire
his is a special and significant year for me. January is
In my personal pursuit of exhibiting the Love and Life
my birthday month. And my age is the same as the
of Christ, the Lord told me, “Give them ears to hear by
year my sweetheart and I were married, fifty years
what you are to them.” A phrase I’ve heard says, “People
ago. (No, I’m not 1972 years old!) Significantly, this is also a
don’t care how much you know until they know how
Jubilee year on the Jewish calendar.
much you care.” And Jesus said, “By this shall all men
Many folks of my age are thinking more about cutting
know that you are My disciples, that you have love for one
back the pace, retiring to piddle around, and awaiting the
other” (John 13:35, NKJ). Then Apostle John penned these
glorious second coming of our Lord. As for me, I’m excited
words: “Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from
to see and participate in the great awakening and revival
God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows
among the Lord’s people, and to work in the anticipated
God” (1 John 4:7, ESV). My desire of the Lord is to take the mountain He has assigned to me. Part of this effort is to walk out the Life Christ Jesus has birthed in me. It will mean doing this in every area of life in general, not just Sunday School. It means every day. In every place and circumstance, I must hold up and insist on God’s Righteousness to rule, starting in me. “Are you gonna beat people over the head with the Bible?” I can hear some wonder. No. The Love of God is our most powerful weapon. The Apostle Paul wrote how it is the “kindness of God that leads [Men] to repentance” (Romans 2:4, NASB), not a stick, not criticism. When we can show His Love, which is certainly kindness, by living out
great harvest of souls. I have a view much more like ol’
the Life of God, their ears will open to the message of God’s
Caleb as the Israelites were preparing to cross over into the
Salvation for them. We can tell them, and they will listen.
Promised Land. “I’ve been waiting for this moment for forty
There are many mountains influencing people. Most
years,” he proclaimed. “I’m 85, now, strong as ever. Give me
of those mountains are occupied by wicked giants which
my mountain!” And he took on a number of giants living on
have been leading us and our nations away from the
his mountain—and won! Retire? Bah! Gimme my mountain!
Righteous rule of God. Let’s take those mountains back to
These are the times when the Body of Christ must
where the greatest influence on us there is—the Kingdom
proclaim the Gospel of the Kingdom. The Church cannot look the same anymore. We’ve been effective by our own
of Jesus Christ. What’s your mountain? Will you retire or be a Caleb?
measure, but the world passes us off as rather an annoyance! earth and its people.
46 10 // January 2022
About The Author
It remains largely unaffected. That’s not God’s Plan for the Paul McGuire has been born again for almost 60 years, and has pursued to hear God’s Voice through all those years. He and his wife Teresa of 49 years are active at Living Word Church in Cleveland, Tennessee. They have two children and five grandchildren.
Our Kids Need Their Village. They Need YOU. #ChangeAChildsStory #CambiemosLaHistoriaDeUnNiño
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
New Horizon
A
by Janise Copeman
s we see the hustle and bustle of the times we live
more like Christ and not an imitation of someone else. What
in, it can get harder to slow it down—to take a look
better role model to have than the Lord? He has given us all
over the past year and meditate on it. It has been an
a purpose and particular gifts to fulfill that purpose with
interesting one for sure! Many new struggles and challenges
this guidance. When we focus more on His agenda versus
have faced us all. We get in the habit of making New Year’s
our own, we will find our true fulfillment. Now, with all
resolutions and a fresh start. We think about our successes or
those projects, goals, aspirations, if we put them in the
failures and start setting goals or projects for the new year. We
Lord’s hands and ask Him to help us reach those goals, the
hear all the time, “I will get to it after the holidays.” Whatever
outcome may be put in a whole different perspective.
it may be, we are wanting to put the past behind us and start with a whole new beginning or outlook come January.
As I am getting older, my goals and my wants have changed. As we enter every new season in our lives, our perspectives and lists change. My eyes are more set on the eternal things—the inward man or woman which will never die but is renewed daily and will go on forever. The things we do in the here and now will be a major part of that. The materialistic world we live in, which is flooded daily with TV, social media, etc. can blind us to what is really important and those things that will never rust or decay. Matthew 6:19-20, “Do no store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.” I hope this is an encouragement to someone
As I spend my quiet time alone with the Lord, He gently
(and myself) who has struggled with New Year’s resolutions
reminds me just how temporary our life is here. It’s just a
or goals and felt the pain of failure, to ask the Lord to
vapor. And the things we may hold important will only
show you what is truly important and have Him cut away
fade. It’s those things that are eternal and will last forever
anything that is not in His best interest for you. To align you
that our hearts should lean into. Things such as family and
to focus on those things He has purposed for you, to bring
showing the love of Christ to others, bringing others closer
Him glory, and to fulfill His great commission. To set our
to Christ, and planting seeds for His Kingdom. Our eternal
priorities according to His plan for our lives.
be in our focus. The world we live in can be so upside down as far as what is important and considered success. Our focus should be on what the Lord desires. We should only strive to be
48 // January 2022
Matthew 6:33, “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” About The Author
residence and those who we touch along this journey should
Janise Copeman lives in Trion,Georgia, is 49 years old, and she is blessed to be married to her soulmate for 26 years. She enjoys reading, writing, and encouraging others by spreading joy and love in the Lord.
Gò0dNews
Christian Magazine
Mission Statement:
W
Writer Guidelines:
e believe when people are equipped,
Who: Our writers range from pastors, professors, and
motivated, and passionately engaged in
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.
goodnewscm.com Phone: 423.478.6484
reach out to people through words of encouragement. What: We believe that it is important to laugh together, praise each other, encourage one another, and to offer biblical advice. Articles can be directed toward everyone, or from woman to woman, or man to man. We love to share recipes and family traditions as well. We ask that articles be kept to a 500 word maximum. We’d love to hear from you! Where: Please send submissions to articles.goodnews@gmail.com Why: Because God has not intended for us to just survive. We believe that we are intended to reach out to love and encourage each other. God has brought each of us through tough times, blessed us, and made the “impossible” possible. Let’s, together, share the love of Jesus Christ.
Gò0dNews for Everyone
Kicks and Kindness
“B
by Chad Van De Griek
e kind. For everyone you meet is fighting
of the supporters that was walking the aisles began making
a battle you know nothing about”—Ian
his way near me. He reaches out his hand and I assumed
Maclaren (Rev. John Watson).
that he was wanting a random high-five. However, as we
I was at a soccer match on a Saturday night in Nashville.
high-fived, he quickly grabbed my hand and began to pull
I was in the heart of the supporter’s section and the energy
me up to my feet to get me standing with everyone else!
was absolutely electric! The supporters are the dedicated
I was completely caught off guard by this! “No, no, no! I
group of fans who spend the entire match standing, singing,
can’t stand!” My initial panic and fear quickly turned to
cheering, chanting, and helping create such a memorable
laughter as he gently guided me back to my seat. As one
experience for everyone.
could imagine, he began to apologize profusely. I reassured him that everything was okay and that I found the situation to be incredibly funny! I couldn’t help but smile as I sat in my seat and continued to watch the match. It was such a funny moment that I am sure neither of us will forget for a long while. And, to be clear, I’m not mad, or even slightly frustrated with the supporter that wanted to see me standing. I know that he meant no harm! My chair was nowhere near me, so there was no way for him to know about my disability. He was just trying to help me have a fun and memorable time, and he certainly did that! As I think back on that interaction on that Saturday night, it makes me smile. But it also makes me think. The thought that someone could’ve looked
Before I continue, it’s important to set the stage.
at me and not known that I was disabled is incredibly
There are a few people in front of the supporter’s section
intriguing to me! As I meditated on this idea, the quote that
that are leading the group in the songs, chants, and
I emphasized back at the beginning popped into my head.
cheers throughout the match. On top of that, there were
The truth is that we’re all fighting battles that most people
supporters that would walk up and down the aisles to relay
will never get to see. We never truly know how much pain
communication from the leaders in the front to everyone
someone is in or how much effort it took to get out of bed
throughout the section. It’s also important to reiterate
that morning. And just like me sitting at the soccer match,
that everyone in the supporter’s section seemed to be
some people don’t look like the fight that they’ve been in or
standing. Well…not everyone. I, obviously, was seated. My
are presently going through. That is why we should always
wheelchair was at the top of the section and I had gotten out
do our best to be kind and be gracious to those around us. I
of my chair, scooted down the stairs, and eventually got to
believe that it is our kindness and our reflection of Christ’s
the seats that my friends were sitting in.
love that truly makes an impact on people.
match was past the halfway mark and it is at this point in the night where our adventure takes a comedic turn. One
50 // January 2022
About The Author
With all of this in mind, let’s get back to the story. The Chad Van De Griek lives in Nashville, TN! He loves Jesus, hockey (Go Preds), and is a big Bible nerd. Chad was born with Cerebral Palsy and is very passionate about using his writing as a way to show God’s love to everyone! You can find more of his writing at chadvandegriek.wordpress.com.
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