Gò0dNews July 2020
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Andrew Lee Angie Parris Brian Branam Calia Russell Deck Cheatham Earl Brackin Heather Lowe James Whaley Janise Copeman Kara Green Karen Jeffery Mandi Bagwell Mary Coppage Nelson Haynes Raylee Evans Reagan Marsh Rhonda Lane Robert Leamon Dr. Zach Walker
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Contents
J U LY 2 0 2 0
GoodNews from the Pastor’s Desk
6 How Much Do You Weigh? by Brian Branam
GoodNews for Everyone
8 Obeying God
by Calia Russell
GoodNews on Money Matters
10 Proximity—Be There by Andrew Lee
GoodNews for Men
12 Keep The Pace
by Nelson Haynes
GoodNews for Women
14 What I Said Was... by Mandi Bagwell
GoodNews for Everyone
18 Be Strong And Courageous by James Whaley
GoodNews for Everyone
20 Calm In The Storm by Robert Leamon
GoodNews Ask The Pastor
22 Was it a sin for David/
Solomon to have multiple wives?
by Reagan Marsh GoodNews for Teens
24 Cleaning Out Your Closet by Raylee Evans
GoodNews Cover Story
26 Just Jump Trampoline Park: Safe, Fun, Clean
by David Thompson
GoodNews for Everyone
28 The Price Of A Slave by Rhonda Lane
GoodNews for Everyone
30 Powered By Faith by Karen Jeffery
GoodNews for Everyone
32 What If?
by Deck Cheatham
GoodNews for Health & Fitness
34 Stress and The Body by Dr. Zach Walker
GoodNews for Everyone
36 Word Power!
6
by Mary Coppage
GoodNews for Everyone
38 The Green Machine by Earl Brackin
GoodNews Testimony
40 God’s Covenant by Heather Lowe
GoodNews for your Taste Buds
42 Surviving the Pandemic from the Kitchen!
by Angie Parris GoodNews from the Physician’s Desk
26
44 Giving Back Through Volunteerism
GoodNews for Everyone
46 Be Still
by Rhonda Lane
GoodNews for Everyone
48 Washing Waterfall by Kara Green
GoodNews for Everyone
50 Who Am I?
by Janise Copeman
50
Gò0dNews from the Pastor’s Desk
How Much Do You Weigh?
I
by Brian Branam
n Psalm 138:3, David writes, “On the day I called, you
even in Psalms of hopelessness, there is thankfulness. In Psalm
answered me; my strength of soul you increased.”
138:1, he sings praise to his God before the gods. Our soul is
Life is heavy. There is a weight in situations and
strengthened in the song of thankfulness. The situation may not
circumstances that cannot be measured with a scale. There is no
change, but a burdened soul finds resolute strength when we
physical mass to a hard day, but you still feel the weight of it.
take a moment to enter into the equation of our situation who
How heavy is the soul? Can you imagine going through the day walking up
God is. 2. Bowing the body in prayer, daily (verse 2). Notice in
to friends, acquaintances, and strangers and asking them a
the second verse how David bows toward the Temple. It is the
common question: “How much do you weigh today?” Talk
same as saying, “I bow before God.” The posture of our body
about getting personal!
reflects the posture of our heart. When we bow before God, we are not only expressing reverence but humility and vulnerability. When arresting someone, a policeman says, “Hands up where I can see them.” If the hands are up, it is assumed there will be no defense. Bowing is the “hands up” of the soul. It is the posture of total surrender. There is no surrender in religious ritual. Have you taken time in prayer today to bow before God? Bowing requires that you stop what you are doing. It requires that you get on your face. The soul is strengthened in holy vulnerability. 3. Remembering the plans, purposes, and
promises of God (verses 4-8). I will admit, it is
difficult for me to pray for long periods of time. The digi-brain is easily distracted. Smartphones are the death of meditation and the attention span. Yet when my mind is stayed on Scripture, I can concentrate. And so I will start the day with you: how much do you
What I am writing this morning is due to my time praying
weigh today? I can ask because I am at a safe “no-slap” cyber-
through Psalm 138; my strength of soul has been increased—
distance from you through the blog. Yet I can also ask because
and so I blog. In verses 4-8, David is citing what he has found
I am not speaking of the weight of your body but the weight
to be true of God by experience, but for the most part, he is
of your soul. How about the weight of your day? Perhaps the
reciting back to God what he knows to be true of Him from His
weight of your situation or of the body you and I mindlessly
Word. The world is unwound right now, but we know how the
carry around day by day? I think very little of 211. I’m so used to
story ends. Truth strengthens the soul.
it, I don’t feel it. But the weight of the soul, I feel it. So do you. How do we increase the strength of our soul? From Psalm 138 we can draw some solid principles. 1. Thankfulness from the whole heart (verse 1). The Psalms are not trite songs and prayers that mindlessly look for the good in every situation. If anything, the Psalms are honest
It cannot be measured on the scale, but you feel the weight of the day. The situation may not change, but the soul has the potential to be strengthened. Prayer, singing, bowing before God, staying the mind on truth—these are the things that increase the strength of the soul. How much do you weigh today?
fact, there is a small collection of them that in Latin are referred to as misery Psalms, the foremost of them being Psalm 51. Yet
6 // July 2020
About The Author
songs and prayers. They are the anthems of heavy souls. In Brian Branam is the Pastor of Liberty Baptist Church, a multi-site church in NW Georgia. For more of his material visit www.FeelMyFaith.com.
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Gò0dNews for Kids
Obeying God
H
by Calia Russell
ave you ever avoided a situation due to the opinions
along. I had an immediate change in mood. I knew it didn’t
of others? This can be a good or bad thing. Most of
feel right, but I continued. My mom noticed and mouthed,
us carry a trait to stay away from things we know
“I’m gonna get you.” If you don’t know what that means, it
are wrong. Personally, I like to stay within the boundaries of
means I’m going to get in serious trouble.
good, but most of the time, my flesh and spirit fight. I have a
After she said that, we went to children’s church. We did
story I’d like to share with you so you can better understand
our normal service, but at the end, we prayed. Out of fear, I
why I believe this so strongly.
asked to pray. I prayed that I wouldn’t get a spanking. My
My church, Eleven 22, is where the story begins.
niece took advantage of this and told my mom everything
We started going there on March 10, 2019. I had a great
to get on her better side. Thankfully she did, or I wouldn’t
relationship with the Lord, but I always felt something was
have learned this lesson. She gave me a long talk explaining
missing. Now that I’m older, I know what that is, but that
that it wasn’t about anyone else: just me and God. I didn’t
will come later. Our church has an amazing choir. My mom
completely understand what that meant, but when she
is in that choir. Back then, I thought she
finished, I didn’t get in serious trouble.
bugged me to clap my hands for the
The following Sunday, I had to go to the front again.
entertainment of the church. I had
This time, I listened to the better suggestion and
put further thought into this, and
praised. And after that, not once did I think about
it seemed like my mind had two
anyone else but the Lord. I felt closer to Him than I
sides. One was that you can just
ever had before. I felt the need to cry. But my flesh
praise the Lord and clap. Another
took over, and I didn’t. Writing this now brings
side was ignorantly thinking, “Don’t
pain to the things I’ve missed because of that. But
clap; just stare.” And of course, that
without it, I might have made the mistake later in
Wednesday, that’s exactly what I did. At church, before praise and
life, so I’m thankful. To conclude, never let your flesh take
worship, our worship leader said,
over your relationship with the Lord,
“Everyone, please come to the
like I did, because it feels amazing
front.” Back then, I used to
to be connected with everlasting
value the opinions of others,
love unlike anyone else’s. He will
and this was one of those
always be there for you in your
situations when my flesh and
toughest times; no matter how
spirit were having a debate.
much hatred you put toward
My friend Ma’Ryah and
Him, He still loves you. Talk to
my mom encouraged me
Him, read His Word, and feel
to come to the front. We
the love and strength He puts
started praise and worship.
over your life.
And of course, being a my plan not to praise for the first song, but then the second song came
8 // July 2020
About The Author
child, I had forgotten about Calia Russell is a fifth-grader at Black Fox Elementary. She attends Eleven22 Church. She loves to write and sing.
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Proximity— Be There 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.
K
en Coleman, a regular on the Dave Ramsey radio show, authored a book last year titled The Proximity Principle which emphasizes the importance of putting yourself in close proximity to others who are working in the career field where you would like to work, with an eye toward landing a fulfilling career. While Coleman’s book is aimed toward those seeking a more rewarding career, the proximity principle—as a concept—is applicable to financial success, as well as numerous other aspects of life. For example, those wishing to lose weight and get fit need to be in the presence of other fit people to watch and learn and ask questions. I’ve talked with numerous people who were unhappily single, yet they never put themselves in situations (i.e.—singles groups at church) to meet potential life partners but rather sat home night after night hoping Mister or Miss Right would appear magically at their doorstep. The proximity principle dictates that we greatly increase our chances of success by intentionally putting ourselves in a position to meet those whom we want to emulate, or those who can help us achieve our goals. Woody Allen once quipped, “Eighty percent of life is just showing up,” and while this may sound glib, there is some truth to it. By simply showing up and putting yourself in the right place (even if it’s not necessarily the “right time”), you enhance your chances for success. Once you know what your financial goals are, look around for people whom it would be advantageous to meet and pick their brain regarding how they handle their finances, how they balance risks and rewards, and what lessons they have learned along the way. Be sure to choose wisely those people from whom you solicit financial advice. On various financial podcasts lately, I’ve
10 // July 2020
heard this adage repeated: “Never take advice from someone you wouldn’t want to trade places with.” Or, to put my spin on it, “Never take financial advice from someone whose net worth is less than yours.” Beware of smoke and mirrors when ascertaining whether someone is a financial success. That luxury SUV and designer clothes may be signs of financial success—or they may be signs of excessive consumer debt and no real wealth. Once you have identified those with whom you wish to network, don’t waste time. Life is too short. Put yourself out there and meet as many people as you can; tell them your financial goals and plans, and then listen to their feedback. Don’t get discouraged, and ask God to give you wisdom and discernment to understand and to evaluate their feedback. Consider the difference between sharing your financial goals with someone who is more successful than you, as opposed to telling these goals to those who are less financially successful. Often, the latter group (usually family and friends) respond with discouragement rather than encouragement. After all, they are likely unknowledgeable about how to achieve financial success, and may even resent your ambitions. But those who have achieved what you hope to achieve will more than likely offer words of encouraging, practical advice. The key is to put yourself in close proximity to these people. Then, once you have networked with them, be sure not only to listen to what they have to say, but also to show that you are a person who is willing to take some action to improve your financial situation. James 1:22 reminds us to “be doers of the word, and not hearers only,” and we should likewise act on wise counsel.
Gò0dNews for Men
Keep The Pace
M
by Nelson Haynes
y “Me-Ma” wore one type of perfume. I
felt the solid flesh and bone of him, smelled the smell of
remember the whiff of her when I bent down
him?” (Secrets in the Dark)
to hug her neck as she sat in her favorite chair.
What I would give to be able to bend down and embrace her one more time. What would it be like to hold her hand
We’ve wished it. “Oh, if I could see Jesus in real time.” But would it help our faith for the long haul? I can’t say life gets easier just because someone comes up
anew, to look her in the eyes, and pick up where we left off
to me and says “Keep the faith.” That sounds generic. Faith
discussing life and its perils. Oh, if I could see Me-Ma again.
is a big thing and when you look at the entire race of the Christian life all at once it’s overwhelming. I think we should tell folks who are having a rough go of it to “Keep the pace.” Since Jesus told us not to worry about tomorrow we need to focus on the day at hand. My wife and I walk over two miles in our neighborhood every evening. We keep a good pace going up and down hills, never stopping until we reach home. The journey of the Christian life is not one of speed, but a faithful-steady pace. However, we honestly long for a sign from above to get us through. We wanna know we’re on the right track when our prayers aren’t answered.
We hunger for people who really care. They’re few and
Oswald Chambers, wrote, “God can do nothing for
far between. The ones who sacrifice their time and really
me until I get to the limit of the possible.” Yeah, I’d love
listen, who are unafraid of inconvenience, and extend their
to actually see my Me-Ma and my Jesus when my world
caring touch.
or the year like 2020 seems impossible, after I’ve prayed
Jesus touched the hemorrhaging woman, the woman caught in adultery, the blind, and people plagued with leprosy. He cares. The late Frederick Buechner wrote, “What did it feel like to be near enough to touch him if you dared? If his eyes happened to meet yours for a moment, what would you say if you could find the right words for saying it, and how
and prayed. But Chambers adds, “Jesus never mentioned unanswered prayer. He had the boundless certainty that prayer is always answered. Paul said, “Never stop praying.” (I Thessalonians 5:17, NLT) As you face this day, keep the pace, praying every step of the way.
would he answer you if he could so much as hear you in moment as he tried to shoulder his way out of the crowd he brushed against you so that for a second or two you actually
12 // July 2020
About The Author
the midst of all the babbling and jostling? What if just for a
Nelson Haynes lives in Ringgold, Georgia, with his wife and 2 Labrador Retrievers. Both of their daughters are grown. Check out his writer’s blog at www.nelsonhaynes500words.com for more meditations. He has a Masters in Christian Education from Dallas Theological Seminary and besides writing, his hobbies include riding his mountain bike; reading; movies; gardening ; painting and going on dates with his bride.
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Gò0dNews for Women
What I Said Was…
T
by Mandi Bagwell
hat’s not what I said, that’s not what I said…That’s
Mother’s Day is usually sad for many reasons for
NOT what I said! These are things I hear all day,
me and a lot of others who have lost their moms and
and it’s got to be a joke at work and with friends
loved ones, but God surely showed us this year, even
all coming from a viral video that’s been going around.
on lockdown status, that we as women are loved and
So many times, we say things in the meaning of good
appreciated. Maybe it’s from our children or friends
intentions, and it doesn’t always come out the right way.
and loved ones or just a single act of kindness from
Tone is everything. This has been a struggle with a lot of
unexpected people. We as women are strong, loved, and
us throughout life. Our motto at our home is, it’s not what
sometimes broken but still beautiful.
you say—it’s how you say it. I say this to start because quite a few of us women have been struggling with being
God seems to specifically pick people to put in our lives at just the time we need them. Sometimes, we just have to stop for a minute and realize who and where they are and how He brought them in our lives for however much time it is. I am thankful for this time, even the struggles that were not planned or expected: it’s all for a reason, season, and lessons. God’s love can shine through if we just open our eyes to who He’s put in our lives. Without each other in this crazy world, it’s a lot like a hurricane, so embrace who is in your life and look to love on those who need the love we all have to offer. To end, the “That’s not
tired and feeling broken but have lifted each other up and
what I said” video—that video that brings a lot of us so
reminded each other that we are strong and enough.
much laughter—says, “She better crawl before she walks,
Times lately have been different with all the disasters
and she better not think about running because she ain’t
around the world. Although things have been very
gonna get far”…especially without God, family, friends,
different from “normal” life, they have also shown me a
and those who are put in our pathway. “Strength and
lot. God has put many strong women in my life currently
dignity are her clothing, and she laughs at the time to
who teach me and others so much: from kindness to
come” (Proverbs 31:25).
women I would have never met if some of the world’s disasters hadn’t happened, and for that I am thankful.
14 // July 2020
About The Author
forgiveness to loving people where they are. These are Mandi Bagwell: mom, realtor, and so much more.
Dalton Church Directory Assembly of God
Christian Fellowship Assembly 3656 Chattanooga Road, 30755 706-280-7594 The Sanctuary 515 Reed Rd NW, 30720 706-270-2088 The Impact 508 Sheridan Ave, 30721 706-226-7743
Baptist
Abundant Life Baptist Church 811 J and J, 30721 706-278-5289 Antioch Baptist Church 1205 Antioch Road, 30720 706-278-1305 Beaverdale Baptist Church 2496 Beaverdale Rd NW, 30721 706-259-7089 Calvary Baptist Church 2115 Chatsworth Rd, 30721 706-278-6324 Carolyn Baptist Church 2305 Cleveland Highway, 30721 706-259-8142 Christ Reformed Baptist Church 1378 Dug Gap Rd, 30720 706-226-3026 Concord Baptist Church 1054 Hopewell Rd, Cohutta 30710 706-694-8618 Cove Baptist Fellowship Church 461 Carbondale Rd SW, 30721 706-277-3484 Crown View Baptist Church 502 West Tyler St, 30720 706-278-7422 Deep Springs Baptist Church 1660 Beaverdale Rd NE, 30721 706-259-3255 Dug Gap Baptist Church 2031 Dug Gap Rd, 30720 706-278-2377 Eastbrook Baptist Church 204 Hill Rd, 30720 Eastside Baptist Church 913 East Morris St, 30721 706-278-8553 Eleventh Avenue Baptist Church 2550 South Dalton Bypass, 30722 706-278-7020 Emmaus Baptist Church 4268 S. Dixie Rd, 30735 706-483-5251 First Baptist Church 802 Kenner St, 30721 706-226-9681 First Baptist Church of Dalton 311 North Thornton Ave, 30720 706-278-2911 Grace Baptist Church 2049 Lower Kings Bridge Rd, 30721 706-537-6884 Good Hope Baptist Church 2525 Lake Francis Rd, 30721 706-259-3719 Grove Level Baptist Church 2802 Cleveland Highway, 30721 706-259-8519 Good Samaritan Baptist Church 3137 Cleveland Rd, 30721 706-259-7239
16 // July 2020
Gospelway Baptist Church 336 Jupiter Cir, 30721 706-278-1424 Grace Baptist Church 2049 Lower Kings Bridge Rd, 30721 706-537-6884 Harmony Baptist Church 187 Lower Dawnville Rd, 30721 706-226-5521 Harvest Baptist Church 3986 Cleveland Hwy, 30721 706-694-8951 Hill Crest Baptist Church 1901 Cityview St, 30720 706-279-1267 Hopewell Baptist Church 3527 Airport Rd, 30721 706-226-5987 Kinsey Drive Baptist Church 2626 Kinsey Drive,30720 706-277-3505 Lakeshore Park Baptist Church 12 Crescent St, 30720 706-275-6050 Liberty Baptist Church 506 South Pentz St, 30720 706-226-5535 Lindsey Memorial Baptist 706-673-7650 3503 Lindsey Memorial Rd. Rocky Face, Ga. 30740 Macedonia Baptist Church 1355 Dawnville Rd NE, 30721 706-259-9220 Maple Grove Baptist Church 347 Maple Grove Rd, 30721 706-483-6300 McFarland Hill Baptist Church 307 Brickyard Rd, 30721 706-277-5521 Mount Rachel Baptist Church 332 Haig Mill Lake Rd, 30720 706-278-5192 Mount Ridge Baptist Church 1401 M L King, Jr. Blvd, 30721 706-278-0335 New Hope Baptist Church 900 Roan St, 30721 706-226-2093 New Hope Baptist Church 706-673-8050 2105 Tunnel Hill-Varnell Road Tunnel Hill, GA 30755 New Life Baptist Church 2620 Old Grade Rd, 30721 Northwest Georgia Baptist Church 222 North Pentz St, 30720 706-463-3490 Olivia Baptist Church 1817 Guy St, 30720 706-278-3507 Pine Grove Baptist Church 4004 Airport Road, 30721 706-264-8630 Poplar Springs Baptist Church 897 Poplar Springs Rd, 30720 706-259-8727 Reformation Baptist Church 825 Chattanooga Avenue, 30720 706-314-8711 Rocky Face Baptist Church 1544 Rocky Face Railroad St, 30740 706- 226-5751
Salem Baptist Church 1448 Pleasant Grove Dr, 30721 706-259-7045 South Dalton Baptist Church 498 Lakemont Drive, 30720 706-278-4946 Shiloh Baptist Church 2014 East Waugh St, 30721 706-226-5981 Temple Baptist Church 2310 South Dixie Hwy, 30720 706-226-6785 Valley Baptist Church 2907 Old Rome, 30720 Welcome Hill Baptist Church 2772 E Welcome Hill Circle, 30721 706-278-0368 Whitfield Baptist Church 2134 Dug Gap Rd, 30721 706-278-6776
Bible
Fellowship Bible Church 2044 Dug Gap Rd, 30720 706-278-6269
Catholic
Saint Joseph’s Catholic Church 968 Haig Mill Lake Rd, 30720 706-278-3107
Christian
First Christian Church 1506 Dug Gap Rd, 30720 706-278-7244
Church of Christ
Central Church of Christ 515 N. Tibbs Rd, 30720 706-278-8051 Riverbend Church of Christ 2218 S Riverbend Rd, 30721 706-226-0819
Church of God
Cedar Valley Church of God 2744 Cleveland Highway, 30721 706-259-0016 Church of God of Union Assembly 2311 South Dixie Rd, 30720 706-275-0510 City View Church of God 3688 Chatsworth Hwy, 30721 706-226-6686 Crosspointe 2681 Underwood Street 30721 706-278-2649 Valley Brook Church of God 1474 Mineral Springs Rd, 30720 706-279-3296
Community
Church on the Hill 1035 Abutment Rd, 30721 706-278-9208 Community Fellowship Church 409 North Fredrick St, 30721 706-278-3204 Freedom Community Church 908 Elk Street, 30720 706-463-2690 Rock Bridge Community Church 121 W Crawford St, 30720
Episcopal
Saint Mark’s Episcopal Church
901 West Emory St, 30720 706-278-8857
Lutheran
Christ the King Lutheran Church 623 S Thornton Ave, 30720 706-278-3979
Methodist
Bethel AME Church 620 Spring Street, 30720 706-226-2714 Bethel UMC 123 Bethel Church Rd, 30721 706-278-3309 Dalton First UMC 500 South Thornton Ave, 30720 706-278-8494 Dawnville UMC 1529 Spring Ln NE, 30721 706-259-5342 Fairview UMC 735 Riverbend Rd, 30721 706-996-5057 Five Springs UMC 2823 Five Springs Rd, 30720 706-277-3928 Mineral Springs UMC 4079 Airport Road, 30721 706-517-0200 Mt. Vernon UMC 597 Lafayette Road Rocky Face, GA 30740 706-673-4667 New Haven UMC 4040 South Dixie Highway, 30721 706-217-1879 Pleasant Grove UMC 2701 Cleveland Highway, 30721 Sugar Valley UMC 503 Murry Hill Dr, 30720 706-280-9112 Trinity UMC 901 Veterans Dr, 30721 706-278-4042 Tunnel Hill UMC 706-673-4022 121 North Varnell Road Tunnel Hill, GA 30755 Varnell United Methodist Church 3485 Highway 2 Cohutta, 30710 706-694-8023 Wesley Chapel UMC 808 Jamestown CT, 30721 706-270-2331
Nazarene
First Church of the Nazarene 2325 Chattanooga Rd, 30720 706-278-8428 Grace Church of the Nazarene 1111 Nelson St, 30721 706-278-1171
Non-Denominational
Abundant Life Bible Church 120 East Morris Street, 30721 706-270-9733 Bridging the Gap Ministries 514 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, 30721 706-277-7575 Relentless Worship Center 210 Robinwood Dr, 30721 706-313-1129 Cornerstone Family Church
1240 Dawnville Rd, 30721 706-259-8509 Dalton House Of Prayer 735 Beaverdale Rd NE, 30721 706-280-0263 Good Neighbors Church 910 South Thornton Ave, 30720 706-226-0846 Gospel Light Tabernacle 804 Sheridan Ave, 30721 Grace Fellowship Ministries 620 N Glenwood Ave 2&3, 30721 706-280-1375 River of Life Church of Dalton 2919 East Walnut Ave, 30721
706-965-6683 Saint James Overcoming Church 400 North Fredrick St, 30721 706-278-0319
Pentecostal
Iglesia de Dios Pentecostal Fuente de Agua Viva 1007 Underwood St, 30721 706-278-4963 La Senda Antigua 308 East Matilda St, 30720 706-270-8826 True Gospel Pentecostal Church 109 South Henderson St, 30721 706-278-5696
Shadow Ridge Worship Center 122 Wheat Drive Varnell, GA 30721 706-280-4546
Presbyterian
ChristChurch Presbyterian 510 South Tibbs Rd, 30720 706-529-2911 First Presbyterian Church 101 S. Selvidge St, 30720 706-278-8161 Grace Presbyterian Church 2107 Threadmill Rd, 30720 706-226-6344
Salvation Army 1109 N. Thornton Ave, 30722 706-278-3966
Seventh Day Adventist
3 Angels Hispanic SDA 701 E Morris St, 30721 706-618-1182 Dalton Hispanic SDA 112 W Long St, 30720 706-275-0523 Dalton SDA Church 300 South Tibbs Rd, 30720 706-226-2166
Salvationalist
Chatsworth Church Directory Baptist
Blue Ridge Primitive Baptist Church 706-517-9849 134 Hyden Tyler Road Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Calvary Baptist Church 706-695-7747 Highway 225 North Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Center Hill Baptist Church 706-695-7988 65 Berry Bennett Road Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Cisco Baptist Church 706-695-9270 Highway 411 North Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Cool Springs Baptist Church 706-517-5388 Holly Creek Cool Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Fellowship Baptist Church 706-695-2626 4396 Highway 52 Chatsworth, GA 30705 US First Baptist Church 706-695-2112 121 West Market Street Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Flat Branch Baptist Church 706-695-2663 3443 Highway 286 Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Free Hope Baptist Church 706-695-3717 4176 Highway 76 Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Holly Creek Baptist Church 706-695-8522 422 Holly Creek Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Liberty Baptist Church 4221 US-76, Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Little Consauga Baptist Church 706-517-5733 1100 Sugar Creek Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Maranatha Baptist Church 706-695-6330 Highway 225 South Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Mount Pisgah Baptist Church
706-517-8944 2309 Old Highway 411 Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Murray Baptist Church 706-695-9712 508 West Peachtree Street Chatsworth, GA 30705 US New Hope Baptist Church 706-517-3089 1273 New Hope Road Chatsworth, GA 30705 US New Prospect Baptist Church 706-629-9521 7629 Highway 225 Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Old Fashion Baptist Church 706-695-5420 885 Ben Adams Road Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Open Air Ministries 706-386-484 1058 Mtn Crest Dr. Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Prayer Baptist Church 706-624-9216 10859 Hwy. 225 South Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Shinning Light Baptist Church 706-517-1739 801 North 5th Avenue Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Smyrna Baptist Church 706-695-5815 1913 Smyrna Church Road Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Spring Place Baptist Church 706-695-5532 441 Highway 225 South Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Strait Way Baptist Church 706-517-2861 508 West Peachtree Street Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Total Praise Baptist Church 706-695-6441 1461 Greeson Bend Rd, Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Zion Hill Baptist Church 706-517-5913 Highway 225 North Chatsworth, GA 30705 US
Bible
Grace Bible Church
2599 Leonard Bridge Rd. Chatsworth, GA 30705 US
Church of Christ
Woodhaven Church of Christ 706-847-7400 508 West Peachtree Street Chatsworth, GA 30705 US
Church of God
Chatsworth Church of God 706-695-9388 Highway 411 South Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Central Community Church 706-695-4242 60 Pine Hills Drive Chatsworth, GA 30705 Spring Place Church of God 706-695-8000 717 Tibbs Bridge Road Chatsworth, GA 30705 US
Full Gospel
Faith Worship Center 706-695-6866 189 Hyden Tyler Road Chatsworth GA 30705 House Of Prayer 616 Jenkins Road Chatsworth, GA 30705 US
Methodist
Casey Springs UMC 7250 Chastworth Highway South Chastworth, GA 30705 Center Valley UMC 706-971-4646 5394 Highway 225 North Chatsworth, GA 30705 US First United Methodist Church 706-695-3211 107 W Cherokee Street Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Fullers Chapel UMC 532 Cook Drive Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Mineral Springs UMC 71 North Way St Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Spring Place UMC 706-695-5143 Po Box 248 Chatsworth, GA 30705 US
Non-Denominational
God’s Light House 784 Smyrna Church Road Chatsworth, GA 30705 The Church of God of the Union Assembly at Chatsworth, GA 706-695-7335 Highway 52 Alternate Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Liberty Tabernacle 706-517-3140 2196 Smyrna Church Road Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Living Word Christian Fellowship 706-695-5005 960 Cherokee Drive Chatsworth, GA 30705 US New Beginnings Ministries 706-695-6067 646 Floodtown Road Chatsworth, GA 30705 US North Gate Church 706-548-4967 7727 Highway 225 South Chatsworth, GA 30755 US Tabernacle of Praise 706-517-0377 1435 Leonard Bridge Road Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Wings Of Faith Ministries 706-695-1527 1122 North Holly Drive Chatsworth, GA 30705 US
Pentecostal
Victory Tabernacle 706-517-1458 355 Ellijay Street Chatsworth, GA 30705 US A Place to Worship 706-517-8568 259 Old Landfill Rd Chatsworth, GA 30705 US
Presbyterian Sumach Presbyterian Church 706-695-4773 2089 Sumach Church Chatsworth, GA 30705 US
Seventh Day Adventist
Seventh-Day Adventist Church 706-517-5124 1115 Highway 52 Chatsworth, GA 30705 US
goodnewscm.com // 17
Gò0dNews for Everyone
Be Strong And Courageous E THE PEOPLE…when we hear those words, we begin to think about the Preamble to the Constitution of the United States of America! We know that the Constitution is an important part of our lives, ordained by our forefathers as guidelines and statutes for our future.
Moses, the Servant of God, had led the children of Israel through the wilderness and to the Jordan river with the Promised Land in sight. In the Book of Joshua chapter 1, God said to Joshua, “Moses my servant is dead; now therefore arise, go over this Jordan, thou, and all this people, unto the land which I do give to them, even to the children of Israel.” God then gave Joshua instructions and guidelines for their future. In verses 7-9, He told Joshua, “Only be thou strong and very courageous, that thou mayest observe to do according to all the law, which Moses my servant commanded thee: turn not from it to the right hand or to the left, that thou mayest prosper withersoever thou goest. This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success. Have not I commanded thee? Be
18 // July 2020
strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.” I believe those instructions apply to us in this day we are living in. In order to be prosperous and successful while serving God, there are guidelines we must follow. Of course, we know that the children of Israel were not always obedient and began to worship other idols. They had to be reminded numerous times how God had delivered them and how they had been brought out of bondage. When Israel sinned, they had to bow down and cry out to the Lord for forgiveness, and God always heard their plea. 2 Chronicles 7:14 says, “If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.” In Joshua 24, He gave the children of Israel a choice. He said, “Now therefore fear the Lord, and serve him in sincerity and in truth: and put away the gods which your fathers served on the other side of the flood, and in Egypt; and serve ye the Lord. And if it seem evil unto you to serve the Lord, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: BUT AS FOR ME AND MY HOUSE, WE WILL SERVE THE LORD.” …WE THE PEOPLE…the children of God, the followers of Christ, have a decision to make. Will we stand with the world, worship their idols and sinful ways, and serve other gods? Or will we be strong and very courageous, stand up, and say, “AS FOR ME AND MY HOUSE, WE WILL SERVE THE LORD”? About The Author
W
by James Whaley
Pastor James Whaley and his wife Wanda live in Dalton and have been ministering and spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ for over 40 years.
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
Calm In The Storm
L
by Robert Leamon
et’s face it: finding peace whenever you can’t see the
we have the power to overcome. We have the power to
light at the end of the tunnel or when you can’t feel
have victory over any situation, over an obstacle that
that everything will be okay is very difficult. Most
we may encounter, no matter who or what it may be. It
of the time, in fact, it seems impossible. The truth is we
also tells me that we have a love inside of us to help us
will all be knocked down at some point in our lives, but
give of ourselves and our means even when we don’t
the choice to rise up from the ashes will always fall on us.
understand. We have a love to help us become all that He
There have been times in my life when I have been
calls us to be for His honor and glory and praise and also
completely knocked off of my feet, and it is so hard to focus in the middle of a storm. It is so hard to hear that “still small voice” of God’s Holy Spirit with everything raging around you. No matter how hard we try, we will never understand or be able to wrap our minds around God and His ways or His overall plan. If we could do that, He wouldn’t be God. The more we study and the more we pray and the more we just walk and talk with Him on a daily basis, the more we will begin to understand that He does have a plan and that we do have a part in His plan for us and for the whole world.
a frame of mind, a calmness, that can only come from
There are many great Scriptures in God’s Word to help
Him to know that we can have peace in the midst of it all,
us run this race of life and to give us hope, courage, and
even in the midst of the battle.
strength like no other; to give us a calmness like no other; and to know that no matter the storm or battle, our God
Tell someone that you love them today, and tell someone that Jesus loves them too.
is still in control, and through Him and His strength we can and will overcome anything that comes against us. given us a spirit of fear but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” This says that if we have His Spirit, then
20 // July 2020
About The Author
2 Timothy chapter 1 verse 7 tells us, “God has not Robert Leamon is a local martial artist of 38 years. During his career he has had the privilege of training with a variety of instructors versed in multiple styles of the martial arts. Robert, together with his wife Lisa, stepped out on faith and founded Christ Centered Martial Arts (CCMA) in 2008. He is the chief instructor of CCMA and they have a main dojo (karate school) located in Rocky Face, Georgia, and another dojo in Chatsworth, Georgia. Robert and Lisa are very involved with their home church Emmaus Baptist as well as teaching an AWANA’s elective karate class at a couple of other area churches. CCMA’s web address is www.ccmartialarts.com.
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Gò0dNews Ask The Pastor Was it a sin for David/Solomon to have multiple wives?
Q
by Reagan Marsh
. Was it a sin for David (and Solomon) to have multiple wives/ concubines? Why was David punished for Bathsheba when he had all the other women? Isn’t marriage 1 man + 1 woman? Is
there inconsistency in this? A. Great question. Understand that David’s and Solomon’s
18) rather than a servant of God and the people. Having multiple wives in Scripture is reported, but never approved; it’s generally a sign of one being led by lust, who is not disciplining himself for the purpose of godliness (1 Timothy 4:7-8). The man after God’s own heart was following his own heart, which led him straight into ruin;
marital situations, complexities, and sins were the precise fulfillment of what God had warned would happen if Israel failed to destroy the godless nations in the promised land: they would learn their ways (Deuteronomy 12:30) and become like them. As 1 Corinthians 15:33 warns, bad company ruins good morals. So, to the question: Yes, it was sin for them to have multiple wives/concubines. In Genesis 2:24-25, Moses speaks of a man cleaving to his wife (singular), and the two becoming one flesh. Ephesians 5:22-33 speaks in lockstep with Genesis 2 when Paul describes a wife (singular) and a husband (singular). The NT further shows that the pattern for Christian marriage is to be exemplified in an elder’s life, specifically in that he is to be the husband of one wife (1 Timothy 3:1-7). David was punished in the Bathsheba account (2 Samuel 11) because his sins were lust, seducing her to marital unfaithfulness, committing adultery, abusing/misusing power entrusted to him for others’ wellbeing, committing murder, and involving others in his own sins. It’s worth noting that the Hebrew is suggestive that he may actually even have forced her against her will (i.e., sexual assault/rape). A great deal of the civil unrest in Israel at the time was not merely circumstantial, but judicial – God’s punishment of David’s sin with the other women. His own family was deeply affected by his sin (for example, the shame of Amnon raping Tamar, and Absalom murdering Amnon in revenge…like father, like sons). When Absalom rebelled and David fled, leaving 10 concubines behind to defend the palace, David’s shame was complete: the giant-slayer who had killed his ten thousands was on the run from an out-of-control teenager. This, in part, is why Solomon later wrote, Discipline your son, for in that there is hope; do not be a willing party to his death (Proverbs 19:18). David’s punishment with Bathsheba, then, was because he
and when Solomon came to power, he followed the same course— with the result that his foreign wives led him astray from the Lord (1 Kings 11:3). Such inconsistency is par for the course with man, but not God. God is patient with our sin and theirs, but his patience is not forever; even the best of men require a Saviour from their sin. We have him in the Christ who was Son of David (Matthew 21:9) and Son of God (Matthew 27:54) – the faithful husband-King who is far greater than Solomon (Matthew 12:42). Jesus is the proof of God’s holy commitment to save his people from their sins (Matthew 1:21). He will one day receive us as his radiant, blood-washed bride, without spot or wrinkle or any such thing, holy and without blemish (Ephesians 5:27); and we will be with him forever. Whatever wicked men may do, Jesus doesn’t take two wives; and Christians may rest secure in his faithful covenant love. If you’d like to submit a question about the Scriptures, please use the contact form at reformationdalton.com – maybe I can answer it in a future GNM article.
despised his own marital covenant(s), and hers; and that cheapenwife carried disastrous results. David had learned the ways of the godless nations, and decided to live like a king (cf. 1 Sam 8.10-
22 // July 2020
About The Author
ing of what God ordains and consecrates between a man and his
Reagan Marsh is husband to Kara, daddy to RG & AG, and founding Pastor-Teacher to Reformation Baptist Church. A biblical counselor, and Th.D student in Puritan Studies, he has served in gospel ministry since 1998.
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Gò0dNews for Teens
Cleaning Out Your Closet ave any of you ever gotten rid of some old clothes? Maybe sold a few, gave a couple to a friend, and left the rest to goodwill? Hopefully the answer is yes, or else you probably have a lot of clothes! It might seem silly, but letting go of even the simplest of things isn’t easy! To get rid of the memories the clothes hold, the experiences they keep, and the precious moments they remind us of. I recently cleaned out my closet; and wow! I did not think it would be so difficult. I was dramatically explaining my sorrows to my mom, as I do, and she kept saying, “Raylee, it’s time to move on.” So simple, yet so powerful. You see, I think I needed to hear this and apply it to all areas of my life. If you’re like me, you feel as though change is hard. You tend to stay where you are comfortable, and are content. That can be a dangerous place to be. It’s like trying to wear clothes that are too small for you, unflattering and simply doesn’t fit! When you outgrow your clothes, there’s no point in holding onto them anymore. The same applies with life, and the seasons we go through. Sure, it’s comforting, but in all reality we will always outgrow the things of this world. That is something we as followers have to grasp. Comfort equals withering. Your potential to grow into the person God has called you to be fades the longer you stay in your “safe place.” That safe place might be a specific person, place, or maybe even a thing. We should remain thankful for all the things that God blesses us enough to miss, but must also remember that He places those special things in our life to grow and learn from. Therefore, we can’t allow fear and uncertainty of our future keep us from letting God work. In His Word it says, “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and give you hope for the future,” Jeremiah 29:11. He knows our plans, and promises us hope! Our purpose lies in the hands of God, not in familiarity. So when you find yourself being thrown into the next phase of life not ready to let go of the past, realize there is hope in our future and great purpose in change. That is the “comfort” we must seek, Christ and His word. That is comfort we can always count on. “The word of the Lord remains forever,” 1 Peter 1:25. You see, we will never outgrow God. Through every season
24 // July 2020
of life as we change, grow, and move on; we can rely on the one thing that doesn’t change. So the next time you’re getting rid of your old clothes, moving schools, growing away from a friend, or finding yourself having different opportunities than before; remember that it is OK. Change means growth. Comfort equals withering. Hope remains in our future, not in the past. The beautiful thing about life is that God does not intend for us to stay where we are but to grow into what will be, so have hope my friends! Clean out your closet, move out of comfort, and have hope in Christ’s purpose for you!
About The Author
H
by Raylee Evans
Hi sunshines! My name is Raylee Evans. I am 17 years old, and I am a junior in highschool! I’m homeschooled, and am 1 of 6 siblings! Some things that I enjoy doing is playing basketball and volleyball. I play for a team called the Chattanooga Patriots. I also enjoy working at Ever After Bridal as a prom specialist, and also leading worship at my church, the Church at Grace Point. Loving God and loving people is a huge passion in my life. I believe so strongly in following Christ, and sharing what He is doing in my life!
SAFE. FUN. CLEAN. 1515 WEST WALNUT AVENUE, DALTON, GA 30720 844-344-JUMP | JUSTJUMP.COM
Welcome Pastor Michael Jones!
Pastor Michael Jones
The Dalton Seventh-day Adventist Church welcomes Pastor Michael Jones to the Dalton community. Pastor Jones brings a wealth of experience in ministry and leadership, having served as both an educator and pastor. “We are thrilled that Pastor Jones has agreed to lead the pastoral team at the Dalton Seventh-day Adventist Church,” said outgoing Senior Pastor Chester Clark, who will remain in Dalton but will serve in a regional administrative position. “Pastor Jones has been a friend of mine for nearly administ twenty years, and I am confident this community will be blessed by his ministry and leadership.”
The Dalton Seventh-day Adventist Church was founded in 1939 and is a community of believers seeking to daily grow closer to Jesus. It offers a rich weekly worship experience, free Bible studies, health and current events seminars, operates a weekly food pantry, and sponsors many community events. The Learning Tree Elementary School has provided high quality Christian education for over 70 years.
Dalton
Seventh-day Adventist Church Where You’re Always Welcome!
300 South Tibbs Road Dalton, Georgia 30720 www.DaltonAdventist.org (706) 226-2166
FEATURED COVER STORY
Just Jump Trampoline Park: Safe, Fun, Clean by David Thompson
N
egativity is all around us. It seems that
zombies, join a massive snowball fight, or challenge
every day, another disaster or tragedy
your friends to a dance battle!
makes the news. Sometimes, we all just
At Just Jump, each customer’s experience is safe
need a boost, a lift, or a little more pep in our step.
and worry-free. The park is treated by bioPURE
And nobody is better at giving people that much-
Chattanooga to keep out all the germs, and airbags
needed boost than Just Jump Trampoline Park!
under the attractions promote safety and cleanliness.
Offering fun for all ages, Just Jump is a state-
Their commitment to a clean environment and your
of-the-art trampoline park with four locations
health and wellness will keep a smile on your face
in Johnson City, Tennessee; Bristol, Tennessee;
throughout the day, and you won’t have to waste
Panama City Beach, Florida; and Dalton, Georgia,
time worrying about whether or not you should
which recently opened in September 2019. Just
have brought that bottle of Purell.
Jump boasts 23,000 square feet of adrenalinepumping fun, including an open jump area, basketball goals (for everyone who has always wanted to be able to dunk), a climbing wall, a kiddie area for the little ones to enjoy, dodgeball, and an epic ninja course! Just Jump also offers virtual reality games with the latest technology, so you can take a break from bouncing to slay
26 // July 2020
Just Jump offers a variety of promotions and specials throughout the week. Monday night is Family Night, when a family of four can jump for one hour for
and providing great rates for church groups, athletic teams, and other youth organizations. Take some time to spend a stress-free day at Just
just $30! Sensory Sunday is a special day that is held
Jump! The park is open 10 a.m.–8 p.m. Monday–
periodically for jumpers with autism and other sensory
Saturday and 1p.m.–6 p.m. on Sunday. If you would
issues. Low lights and low music keep the mood just
like more information, you can visit their website,
right, the price is just $10, and a parent or caregiver can
justjump.com, or their official Facebook page, @
jump for free. Finally, every Wednesday and Saturday
JustJumpDalton, or you can call them at 844-344-JUMP.
9–10 a.m. is Junior Jump, when jumpers 6 years old and under get the run of the whole park. Just Jump also makes sure to stay involved in the community by sponsoring youth organizations, holding fundraisers,
goodnewscm.com // 27
Gò0dNews for Everyone
The Price Of A Slave
T
by Rhonda Lane
he price of a slave has never been based on any
trade in both the past and present. A penny for a life is too
standard scale. Civil War-era slaves were judged
much, yet a trillion dollars is not even a fraction of its worth.
or measured by their qualities of strength, ability,
There are people, however, who are in the “business”
knowledge, or the absence thereof. At one point in history,
of helping when you don’t know what to do with a
some segments of our society wanted them to be considered
pregnancy. How much do they charge, you ask? Nothing.
100% of a person but still not free, while others wanted them
Not one penny because they are about the Father’s business.
to be considered 0% human. A compromise of 3/5 human
They are the compassionate volunteers at the Women’s
was deemed acceptable. Partially human, yet with no voice.
Enrichment Center at 109 W. Gordon Street in Dalton
The price of one of these fractional entities could range
(706-278-1050). They handle no money whatsoever, but
from $25 to $2500. These arrangements would be publicly
they handle all their clients with mercy, compassion, and
acceptable and not outlawed until 1865. The price of a modern-day slave of the sex trafficking or forced labor variety is often measured by some of the same standards as well as beauty or age. More precisely, the lack of years of age is utterly and disgustingly important. Their price can range from $2 to $25,000. This abominable practice was not pronounced illegal until the year 2000. These prices are not a reflection of the value of humanity but of their worth to a money handler, a plantation owner, or a pimp. The one standard is that all of them are robbed of their freedom, their dignity, and many times, even their very heartbeat. Not one has a choice about their
assistance with any needs associated with the difficulties
residence, vocation, or sometimes even their life’s length.
that come during or after pregnancy, including assistance to
There is yet another group in our society that is enslaved in another way: unborn children to their mothers’
those in the aftermath of pregnancy loss or termination. How long will reproductive “freedom” be tolerated?
choices. Although fully human with all the DNA any
Since abortion became legal in 1973, 60 million humans
human will ever possess, they are considered not worthy
have lost their freedom to choose to live. They have lost
of that designation and are just a commodity from which
their freedom to become the scientist that cures cancer or
to be profited.
remedies global warming or the special one that becomes
Their lives are also sorted into a range of prices from
the love of your life and is already the apple of God’s eye.
$450 to $15,000 to end that life, depending upon length of Yes, it’s a business. The destiny of human life, whether within the womb or without, has been a publicly accepted
28 // July 2020
About The Author
gestation, method of termination, and place of business. Rhonda Lane is a native of Dalton, Georgia, and is an orphaned, old maid, and only child trying to find her way in the world and lose herself in Jesus Christ.
Gò0dNews for Everyone
Powered By Faith
W
by Karen D. Jeffery
e have all had storms in our lives. Just step back
the boat, walked on the water, and coming toward Jesus, he
and look at this circumstance.
took his eyes off Jesus. As the wind was blowing and the water
As Christians in the Kingdom of God, we are
under his feet was just too much for him to grasp, he began to
fueled by faith. The Word of God tells us in Romans 1:17, “For
sink into the deep water. He cried, “Lord, save me!” And Jesus
therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith:
immediately reached out His hand and caught him; then Jesus
as it is written, The just shall live by faith.”
said, “Oh ye of little faith, why did you doubt?” When they
We can obtain that promise of faith as in Hebrews 11:1:
climbed back into the boat, the wind ceased, and all those who
“Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of
were in the boat worshipped Jesus, saying, “Truly, you are the
things not seen.”
Son of God!”
Faith is the fire that keeps every action in the Kingdom of God. To learn the ways of faith, we must search and pray for those key points. We can have all the riches of God’s Kingdom, all authority, and all power that is given unto us. Matthew 28:18-19: “And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.” Just as your physical body is fitted and designed to thrive on the earth, your spiritual nature is suited to be drawn to the things of Heaven. The Bible is our faith textbook. God breathed every word into it and explains how we can obtain faith and use it in our everyday lives. Having faith in God,
I believe Peter’s failure taught him a valuable lesson about
not in an outcome, we can focus on what real faith is and on
faith. When you have enough faith to turn to Jesus no matter
understanding faith in God. We have to know the faith giver.
the state of your feeling, then you will possess enough faith
Faith in its finished form brings all power of God into the
that, with His help, you will overcome all those mountains.
renewing we all need to grasp. We can depend on God to be our foundation. 1 Corinthians 3:11 says, “For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.”
Just remember, faith is a gift from God. The Bible is our road map, and if we follow it, we only need to obtain faith as big as a grain of mustard seed. Matthew 17:20: “And Jesus said unto them, Because of your
You may ask yourself, “Do I have enough faith?” We are all
unbelief: for verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of
human, so being honest, you may answer no. We can learn how
mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence
faith operates in our lives through our everyday prayer and by
to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be
studying about it.
impossible unto you.”
One of Jesus’s disciples named Peter had an eye-opening experience. Matthew 14:22-33 tells us his experience. Peter’s attempt to walk to Jesus on the water is an example of how faith
Leave everything in the Lord’s hands. He’ll see you through it all. God bless you all.
Peter said, “Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water.” Jesus said, “Come.” Then Peter got down out of
30 // July 2020
About The Author
is in operation. Karen D. Jeffery loves the Heavenly Father, her family, and her church. Keep looking up Jesus is coming soon.
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
What If?
G
by Deck Cheatham
ranting glimmers between reflection and longing,
with Gordon Lightfoot tickets, making our house a home
joy lays hold of you by what you know you will
with her quiet, overflowing thoughtfulness. Joy has a chance
lose, with reflections of the unobservable universe,
when two shores meet.
with the present delight of fleetingness. She touches and
All my joys, those repetitive little waves lapping
kisses her intended as a warm wind rising, then passes,
on my rippled shore, came to establish a province, a
allowing nothing but brushes of her solitary ascent and
sphere purposed to gain my attention to what is true and
disappearance. Unable to be held or conjured into being, her allure teases us toward shallow imitation, knowing her true self comes only as toil and pain give way and the sweet memory of her scent lingers until she comes again. When, finally, we reach the place where we serve God’s will not as we wish, but as He desires us to see it, we have come to that place of the heart God talks so much about. Joy laps over our ruddy shore until her rising tide reaches a high, deposits her humility within us, and leaves an unrepayable debt, an assurance all is well. Joy is God’s way to say, “I’m here; rest in Me; I shall never leave.” I took years to understand this, to respond with thanks and giving. Too many times in life, I have felt like an island, separate from all those other islands with names and lives
unchanging. Don’t we all possess a sphere through which
and ruddy shores. If there was a chance to advance, to
passes either joy or discontent, God or indifference? Who,
claim a beachhead, I did my utmost. Each advance met with
then, will dive in faith and fathom God’s will to awaken
obstacles, retreat, and then advancing again and spurred
to life’s purpose, to wander upon another’s shore and
me toward self-gratification. Forget I knew this wasn’t true
wonder…what if?
and around me were family and friends who loved me, who
Each must decide. I, imperfect I, have decided mine. To
made me mad with their truth-telling. Forget I discarded my
each God gives this ministry of sphere, our joys never to be
upbringing to stake my claim.
held but passed on to someone’s ruddy shore. This is God’s
Along the way, those little twinklings kept fleeting by, reminders of my forgotten treasure. There was my son
will, life’s purpose. Today, I encourage you to wonder with me and ask,
breaking 80 on the golf course for the first time, his twin
“What if?”
sister writing a poem about a golf pro’s long hours, and as
“Those who have ears to hear, let them hear” (Matthew 11:15).
the pages turned, my youngest reciting “Milk and Cookies” from memory, all granting glimmers into fleeting delight. I my streak of chocolate birthday cakes intact, surprising me
32 // July 2020
About The Author
remember those times N. prepared a favorite meal and kept Deck Cheatham has been a golf professional for some 40 years. He lives with his family in Dalton. He is a guest columnist for the Rome News Tribune, The Daily Citizen, and the Calhoun Times. Email him at pgadeacon@gmail.com.
CATCH THE THIEF IN YOUR INBOX Your pastor just sent an email asking you to send money. The request seems out of the ordinary, but the email looks authentic. What would you do? Schemes like this are becoming common—and more sophisticated. It can be difficult to discern between legitimate requests and scams. Access a free webinar on how to protect your ministry’s money and data from digital threats.
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Gò0dNews for Health & Fitness
Stress and The Body tress isn’t a new idea for anyone of us; however how much do we really know about stress and what it does to the body? Stress actually isnt bad for the body, it is stress that we cannot handle or unwanted stress that may affect us negatively. We are constantly putting stress on our bodies. This can be in the form of eating when the body has to produce different hormones, excite different organs/glands, and produce energy to breakdown the food. It can also be when we are working-out when sweat glands have to work more and the cardiovascular system has to respond to what we are doing. Everyday stress can be good, but what happens if we cannot handle everyday stress, or unwanted stress creeps up in our lives? On the most basic level when the body comes in contact when a particular stress it will try to maintain homeostasis ( balancing the body where it naturally should be). This is where the different body systems come in and do there job(s), from producing different hormones (cortisol, cortisone, epinephrine, etc) to activating cardiovascular or immunological systems. The key issue to remember is that the BRAIN is responsible for every single one of these interactions! If the brain cannot handle the stressor it will immediately start having issues with breathing, producing more hormones then there should be, increase hear rate, etc. We need to make sure that we are taking care of our brain and nervous system. Yoga, breathing exercises, chiropractic neurology, massage, Tai-Chi, acupuncture, food intake, exercising, and just talking and laughing with loved ones are just some tools that can be used to help return to homeostasis. Chronic stress that the body cannot handle is what we really do not like. This is when, just like described above, different body systems work over time and can experience the following: • Feel drained • Run down
34 // July 2020
• Constantly fatigued • Hold onto adipose tissue (fat) more • Trouble concentrating • Aches/pain • Inability to sleep • Concentration issues • Even sexual dysfunction(s) occur These may describe you or someone you know. These are individuals that haven’t done anything new, working out more or hard a major injury, but a lot of these symptoms
seem to just come on instantly. It may feel like this, but I can promise you that the body has been trying to tell you that it is feeling run down but you may not have been listening. This is why the above mentioned modalities may help because they may be relaxing muscles, helping with letting go of the stressors, or targeting the brain in a way that is allowing it to get back to homeostasis. Make sure you are taking care of your brain, so it can do the same for you!
About The Author
S
by Dr. Zach Walker
Dr. Zach Walker is a chiropractic neurologist in the Ringgold, Georgia, area. He utilizes a chiropractic brain-based module to help his patients. He is the owner of BrainSpineConnection.
• HOPE FILLED PRAISE & WORSHIP • RELEASING THE FATHER’S GOODNESS • CHANGING THE ATMOSPHERE
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
Word Power!
T
by Mary Coppage
he advent of any crisis brings with it its own terms
done. Those who keep their minds stayed on Him will be
and definitions. Some are new: “COVID-19,” for
kept in perfect PEACE (Isaiah 26:3). Don’t be distracted or
example. Others, such as “social distance,” are re-
deceived. The present generations seem to be enthralled by
engineered. Still others are words and terms sewn together
fables and fairy tales; the Gospel of Jesus Christ is neither. It
to best describe and communicate the things they portray:
is the power of God unto salvation to all who believe it. Let
“shelter at home” or “essential” and “non-essential”
no one make you ashamed of it or tempt you away from it,
businesses. Easily understood words and terms are very
but earnestly contend for the FAITH that was given to the
important to properly communicate to people essential and even life-saving information. We Christians are well aware of the necessity and the power of words. In the beginning was the Word. He was with God, He was God, and everything that was made was made by Him (John 1:1). Our faith came by hearing and hearing by the word of God (Romans 10:17). The word spoken by Jesus cleanses us (Ephesians 5:26; John 15:3), and the humble receiving of the engrafted word is able to save our souls (James 1:21). Since the knowledge and use of words are so very important in all things, let us check out, refresh, and add to our spiritual vocabulary. Let’s start with this—BREATHE! Here lately, it’s almost
saints (Jude 3). God’s people everywhere have heard about
as though some strange thing has happened to us and we
the perilous times and people that shall be in the last days
are holding our breath, waiting for the next thing. Breathe
(Matthew 24; 2 Timothy 3). God tells us they must and will
and give God glory, thanks, and praise! The Lord God
come, but again and again, He reassures us through His
rules and reigns! The times may be uncertain, but our God
Word that He will not leave or forsake us (Deuteronomy
is not! Trust Him, have faith, and believe His Word and
31:6; Numbers 23:19; Hebrews 13:5; Isaiah 41:10).
promises! He is without equal or comparison; there is none
So STRENGTHEN and ENCOURAGE yourselves in
like Him and no God but Him. Trust in Him with all your
the Lord. Pray without ceasing and without doubting for all
heart; acknowledge Him in everything, and He will direct
men everywhere, and know that the effectual, fervent prayer
your path (Proverbs 3:5-6). He has set up and called the
of the righteous avails much. Hope thou in God; walk wisely
end of things from the beginning: “…from everlasting to
and worthy of your calling. USE YOUR WORDS!
everlasting, thou art God” (Psalm 90:2). your pure minds by way of remembrance. Do not fear, but remember who He is, what He said, and what He has
36 // July 2020
About The Author
FOCUS on Him, and allow the Holy Spirit to stir up Mary Coppage is a native of Dalton, Georgia, where she still resides. She is a licensed minister and a member of True Gospel Pentecostal Church.
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
The Green Machine
W
by Earl Brackin
hen I get to see God answer prayer, it builds my
payment. The engine was blown, so I rebuilt it for you. It’s
faith. I’m not talking about a general conclusion
in great shape.”
to a general request or a solution that could be
With that, he pointed toward not a blue sparkle,
construed as from God. I’m talking about a specific answer
custom Ford van but a pale green 1969 Buick LeSabre. I
to a specific request. Those answers confirm to my soul that
was speechless. I did manage the best “put on” thank you I
God is listening and is actively involved in my life. I need
could muster.
that! And the Lord is so good to fulfill His Word and reveal His purposes for me in that way.
An amazing thing about the cars of the ’60s: they were all metal. This one was so big that on one trip to central
I’ve written here in this magazine about specific answers to specific prayers I’ve prayed. But today I’m writing about an answer to a specific prayer that wasn’t what I expected. I had been married for a few years. I had a car—sporty, but not very reliable—and my wife had a car that was reliable but small and with no A/C. As a singer, I had sound equipment and guitars to lug around to gigs. And now we had our first baby. We needed something bigger. I immediately began to pray for a van. This was the ’70s, so I was praying specifically for a blue sparkle, customized Ford van (you have to have lived in the ’70s to really understand this picture). I really believed the Lord
Florida, I was able to fit my whole PA system, two guitars,
knew we needed this, and I had faith that He would provide.
cords and stuff, three suitcases with clothes for a week,
And provide He did. Now, as a famous broadcast commentator
and a baby crib, plus the big car seat for my baby girl. And
used to say, “Here’s the rest of the story.”
there was still room in the front seat for me and my wife
My father-in-law was an experienced mechanic
comfortably. Ask me sometimes about driving that car out
with his own shop. Maybe it was out of concern for the
in public. It never let me down and always carried more
transportation I was providing (or not providing) for his
stuff than I needed, not to mention the Lord’s using it to
daughter and grandchild that made him act. Anyway,
work on my pride.
without knowing my prayer, God used him to answer my
He is faithful. He says, “Ask and it shall be given
need. I received a phone call from him one day: “Come by
to you,” and “Call unto me and I will show you great
the shop this afternoon; I’ve got something for you.”
and mighty things.” He always answers your prayers.
My heart was racing in anticipation. I just knew that this
Sometimes it is yes. Sometimes it’s no. Sometimes it’s
was the answer to my prayer. I couldn’t wait to lay my eyes
wait. And sometimes it’s a 1969 green Buick LeSabre. But
on that blue sparkle, custom Ford van! I pulled in and got
whatever the answer, it’s always perfect.
needing a better car, and a customer gave me this vehicle as
38 // July 2020
About The Author
out. He came out to greet me and said, “I knew you were Earl Brackin is the Minister of Worship at Church on the Hill in Dalton, Georgia. He and his wife Lisa have three children and 5 grandchildren. You can hear his music at earlbrackinmusic.com.
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Gò0dNews Testimony
God’s Covenant
O
by Heather Lowe
n November 7, 2018, the Lord revealed Himself to me in a very special way. I was working in Woodstock as a pension analyst and I was making the long drive home. It was pouring down rain and my heart was so heavy because I realized that I had been on a journey of seeking the Truth and pursuing my calling to be a life purpose coach for 7 years and I had lost everything in the process including my marriage. I was caught between New Age beliefs and Christianity and I wondered how much more I would have to lose to find the truth, but I had nothing left. When I realized all this, I called out to God and I asked Him if His son, Jesus Christ, had been my guide for the past 7 years and I also told Him to show me the Truth if He wanted me to do what He called me to do in the name of Jesus to honor and glorify His name. Right after that prayer, I realized something so simple - that I could just decide that Jesus had been my guide all those years and give Him the honor and glory for leading me...and that’s what I decided to do. In that moment, I recommitted my life to Christ. Right when I made that decision, I made a turn at a stop light and I could see that behind me was a fully-formed, vibrant double-rainbow. I took some pictures of it and the next day, I noticed something incredible. When I looked closer at the last picture I took, I noticed that the rainbow was pointing to a cross in the word COVENANT on a church sign. I was speechless. The Lord confirmed the Truth of the gospel to me that day. He had been leading me to Himself the entire time. I rejected Jesus numerous times on my journey, but He never stopped pursuing me. Shortly after that my son and I were Baptized. At the start of the next year, I committed to read the entire Bible in 90 days and as I did, the Lord also restored my marriage. I had no idea who God really was until I read the Bible. I could finally understand and appreciate the sacrifice that both God and Jesus made to free us free from our sin, so that we could have a relationship with them and spend eternity in Heaven - and all we have to do is receive the free gift of salvation by believing and accepting Jesus as our Lord and Savior. Since I’ve re-committed my life to Christ, I have innerpeace, love, purpose, and meaning because I allowed Him to
40 // July 2020
meet my deepest inner needs. When Covid-19 hit, the Lord placed me with a team of Online spiritual coaches through the Groundwire ministry. I’m honored to be serving the Lord by leading others to Christ and offering life and spiritual guidance and prayer for others in crisis and I’m so grateful that he would use someone like me to do it. I had to lose everything to find Jesus again, but what I realized is that He is more than enough, He is everything that we need. We are all designed with a God-sized hole inside of us. Without Christ, we will try to fill ourselves up using anything from this broken world. The missing piece is and always will be Jesus - apart from Christ, I am nothing and can do nothing.
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Gò0dNews for your Taste Buds Surviving the Pandemic from the Kitchen! by Angie Parris
I
don’t know about anyone else, but when I am stressed…I like to bake. There is nothing better than the smell of fresh bread rising and baking. There is nothing more intimidating as the thought of making fresh bread for anyone other than experienced bakers. I have found myself in the kitchen during this pandemic, looking for items to bake. The need for distraction has never been greater. The moment I spotted yeast, which seems to be a hot commodity…I knew a fresh loaf of bread was in my future. Whipping up things in the kitchen can be more than just creating meals or comfort foods. In fact, baking has been found to have therapeutic value which helps to ease depression and anxiety. Any activity which takes your whole attention can have calming and therapeutic qualities. Gathering ingredients, following a recipe, mixing and kneading truly lend a therapeutic quality to this recipe. This recipe is pretty simple and turns out beautifully but will give you such a sense of accomplishment and pride when your family enjoys this with their next meal! Give it a try! I hope you will feel much more relaxed and your entire family enjoys the fresh baked goodness.
Beautiful Loaf Bread Ingredients • 2 cups water • 2/3 cups sugar • 1 ½ tablespoons Active Dry Yeast • 1 ½ teaspoons salt • ¼ cup vegetable oil • 5 ½ - 6 cups All Purpose Flour • Two large bowls • 2 Loaf Pans
Instructions Heat water to 110 degrees F. This is what I do: Heat ½ cup water in a microwave safe bowl for one minute. This will boil the water. Then add tap water from the faucet until you reach 2 cups of water. Add the sugar to the water you just heated and stir it up. Add the active dry yeast and let it set for exactly 10 minutes. It will become frothy. After 10 minutes, mix in the oil and salt. Slowly add one cup of flour at a time to the yeast mixture. You might not use all of the flour. It depends on how wet the dough is towards the end. You want to get a good non-sticky dough consistency and it will form a ball. Once the dough forms a ball, you will need to knead the dough for about 5 minutes. Sprinkle the surface with flour before you begin. When you feel the dough get sticky, sprinkle more flour over the top while you knead it. When kneading is complete, you should be able to lift a small piece of dough without tearing it, just a gentle stretch. Spray a large bowl with non stick cooking spray and place the dough in the bowl. Cover with a damp towel. Let this dough rise for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size. After the dough has risen, punch down the middle part of the dough and pull from the sides of the bowl. Split this into 2 equal parts and place them in greased loaf pans. Gently shape to match the loaf pan shape. Allow these to sit uncovered for another 30 minutes to rise. Place in a preheated oven at 350 degrees F for about 30 minutes or until they are cooked thoroughly. Feel free to brush with melted butter when they come out of the oven. Transfer to cooling rack. Enjoy a warm slice with butter and honey…you’ll be glad you did!
42 // July 2020
Gò0dNews from the Physician’s Desk
Giving Back Through Volunteerism
E
ach year, Hamilton Health Care System honors a
• Patient Services Representative
Hamilton volunteer with a very special award called
• SICU (Surgical Intensive Care Unit)
the Eva McCamy Award. Eva McCamy was one of
Our volunteers are men and women of all ages,
the first Gray Ladies at Hamilton. She is remembered for her
including those who are in school, working, and retired.
gentleness and servant leadership. Gray Ladies were American Red Cross volunteers who provided non-medical services to sick, injured, and disabled patients in hospitals during World War II. One of the recent recipients of the Eva McCamy Award is Terr Ella Flood. Terr Ella has served as a volunteer at Hamilton for 11 years. She has worked over 4,985 hours at the Hamilton Medical Center information desk, in the gift shop, and wherever she is needed. “After my husband passed away, a friend of mine who volunteered in the hospital gift shop asked me if I would be interested in volunteering with her. I’m so glad I said yes. I love to help people and it’s really been good for me to be around other people and not at
Volunteer Benefits Include:
home by myself.”
• Covered parking
—Terr Ella Flood
• Complimentary meal with each shift • Discounted membership to Bradley Wellness Center
Volunteer Opportunities Include:
• Annual flu shot
• Anna Shaw Children’s Institute
• Discounts on non-prescription items at HMC Rx Care
• Bandy Endoscopy Center
• Free educational opportunities through Hamilton
• Bradley Wellness Center
University Base
• Hamilton Diabetes and Endocrinology Center
• Recognition events
• Hamilton Diagnostics Center
• Referral incentive
• Hamilton Hospice (patient and office support
Interested in volunteering at Hamilton Medical Center?
opportunities available)
Volunteering is an opportunity to do something
• Peeples Cancer Institute
meaningful and give back to the community. Hamilton
• Turner Maternal and Infant Care Center
volunteers are a vital part of our patient care team. As a
• Westcott Behavioral Health (clerical)
volunteer, you can choose the role that is right for you. Your
• Hamilton Medical Center
help has a far-reaching, positive impact on everyone who
• Admissions
enters our doors. Apply online at HamiltonHealth.com/
• Emergency Room (18 years of age or older)
volunteer or call 706.272.6147.
• Gift Shop • Information Desk • MICU (Medical Intensive Care Unit)
44 // July 2020
Gò0dNews for Everyone
Be Still was born a week late and I've been trying to catch up to this ever faster moving modern world ever since. It didn't help that my parents were slow. They weren't slow in intellect, far from it. They were two of the smartest, wisest people I've ever been privileged to know. They were, however, slow in their intentionality about life. They took the time to savor the joy and opportunity of learning in every situation that presented itself to them. Warm summer evenings spent sitting and talking on our front porch about the past, the present, and the future as the twilight slowly enveloped them was one of their favorite pastimes. Observing nature was another avocation. My father once interrupted a busy day of chores to dissect and study the intricate architecture of an abandoned wasp nest along with my mother and myself. We took the time to absorb the wonder of God's creation in it's many layers and connecting pillars. My mother and I also spent another warm, late summer evening sitting on my grandmother's back steps watching wandering stars shoot across her pasture singing a sizzling song as part of a meteor shower. They were like fireworks from the inventor of fire Himself. Scientific experts have recently discovered whole new lanes of God's natural bounty during this current pandemic
46 // July 2020
crisis and shutdown. Seismologists have discovered never before measurable movements of the earth unmasked solely because of the newfound stillness of humanity. Astronomers, too, have noticed celestial artwork not normally visible because there were no planes to force the stars to play hide and seek from our eyes. When the world is up and running, we humans are always making noise with our automobile traffic, we leave the lights on in an attempt to void the night only to obscure the illumination of the stars, and we build skyscrapers to obscure the trees and the mountains we so eagerly seek to find with our cars and our airplanes. Stop, look, and listen. Stop rushing out the door or rushing to judgment. Look at the faces of your loved ones. Listen to the songs of birds. Stop and catch a falling star. Stop and catch your breath. Stop and catch a glimpse of God. Psalm 46:10 says, “Be still and know that I am God.” I still live my life in the slow lane, just where I want to be. I feel as if I've finally caught up with the world or maybe it’s finally caught up with me. About The Author
I
by Rhonda Lane
Rhonda Lane is a native of Dalton, Georgia, and is an orphaned, old maid, and only child trying to find her way in the world and lose herself in Jesus Christ.
c a n a ’ l B
The New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary Certificate Center
s
meets at
North Georgia & Murray County Baptist Associational Office
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200 South Pentz Street, Dalton
Beginning Tuesday, August 14, 2018 Class: 7:00 - 9:00 p.m.
With
Registration begins at 6:00 p.m.
Gò0dNews
APPLIANCES & FURNITURE Christian Magazine
Class Title: “Old Testament Survey” Part 1 The class is an 8-week course
Teacher: Dr. Danny Cochran
Each month we distribute 7,500 magazines to over
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Learn and appreciate the unity of the Old Testament
Cost: New Student $25 ~ Course $100 ~ Books $39.00 Contact the Associational Office at 706-226-2129
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SHARE YOUR STORY Everyone has a story to tell. Share yours with us and see how your story can change someone's life.
Contact Bekah Prytherch: articles.goodnews@gmail.com Contact Melissa Phillips: articles.goodnews@gmail.com
Gò0dNews for Everyone
Washing Waterfall
T
by Kara Green
he quarantine we have experienced as a nation has
voice in worship, I saw water being poured out from heaven
definitely been an unusual, trying time. Everything that
onto the people. This was not a little sprinkle of water, but it
was normal, was stripped away. Our busy schedules, ap-
was a rushing of water being poured out; like standing under
pointments, games, even work was cancelled for many people.
a massive waterfall. I asked the Lord what this meant, and He
During this time all the “normal” things we took for granted
began to show me. He said,
were suddenly stopped; like time standing still. Stores closed;
“I am pouring out my water on you; refreshing you. Let go,
and everything inside was left just like the day they locked it
and let me do this. Don’t be afraid. My water is washing you!
for the last time. At grocery stores and other places that were
Flooding over you. I’m pouring out my Spirit and washing you from the PAST season. I’m making you ready for what I’m doing NEXT! The water of My spirit is being poured out over the church- purifying the church- washing my people. Old ways , old thinking, old stuff- washed away like dust! It’s gone! My spirit POURED out! I’m calling you higher! I’m calling the church higher!” Isaiah 44:3: “For I will pour water on the thirsty land, and streams on the dry ground; I will pour out my Spirit on your off-spring, and my blessing on your descendants.” Revelation 22:17: “The Spirit and the bide say, “Come!” And let the one who hears say, “Come!” Let the one who is thirsty come; and let the one who wishes take the free gift of the water of life.” The Lord reminded me that there is power in gathering with other believers; with the family of God. Faith rises
deemed “essential”, people and workers wore masks and
when we gather to worship Him. We need each other! When we
stayed apart from others. “Social distancing” became the buzz
lift our voices together, it makes a difference!
word for people in our nation, no hugging, handshaking, or
I felt compelled to look up the definition of the word dust.
getting together with friends. Even churches closed their doors
Dust is defined as, earth or other matter in fine, dry particles.
and had to do services online or drive-in style. School buildings
The dust of old attitudes and thinking are being washed away
were empty; no hustling and bustling of children, teachers and
as we press in to God in worship and prayer. I believe God is
parents. Now school had to be done online. We couldn’t gather
calling us to receive His love and surrender everything to Him.
together for any event. Everything in just a few days changed.
He is preparing us for greater things! We have a choice. We can
It was all different.
surrender and allow God to wash away all those things that have settled on us, or we can hold on to them and stay in the past. He is calling us to move up higher and rise up! Things
me on the first service I went to in person as the quarantine was
that have been difficult to overcome will be washed away in a
ending. When I walked in the door, the worship was so pow-
moment in this outpouring of the spirit. Surrender it all to the
erful, and the sound of the worship of the people of God was
Father now, and receive the Holy Spirit in a fresh way! We are
so beautiful! My heart was so moved by the sound! The sound
moving higher!
of the people of God lifting their voices together was piercing the heavens. I could feel the Holy Spirit so strong. As I lifted my
48 // July 2020
About The Author
Our country is opening up in phases now, and as the church doors are opening, I want to share a word the Lord gave
Kara Green is a psalmist and prophetic worship leader from Signal Mountain, Tennessee. She released her first worship album, “Presence of my King,” in 2017. Her heart is to see the Body of Christ experience the glory of God through lifting up the name of Jesus in worship. She also releases prophetic words on her blog at Karagreenworship.com.
Protecting Where You Live And Worship Al Smith
300 W. Emery St. Ste. 105 Dalton, GA 30720 (706) 529-6786 fsmith@alfains.com
Gò0dNews for Everyone
Who Am I?
T
by Janise Copeman
oday, we are so fascinated with finding out who we
It is so true that we can be completely opposite of our
are. With the explosion of ancestry.com or DNA kits,
families, but so often we can hear things like, “wow you
we all are so curious to know more about what makes
are just like your mother, or your father.” Or people say,
us tick. People do a family tree and search way back to find
“the grape doesn’t fall far from the vine.” That’s why it is so
out more about their heritage, which may take hours or even
important to ask the Lord to examine us and not compare to
years of researching.
who and what others are doing. Sometimes, I see myself one
Sometimes, we think we know ourselves, which may be good or bad depending on how we view ourselves, our selfesteem, and other circumstances that we are faced with. Other people can see us differently and see things in us that we
way and when I read His Word, the Lord challenges me to be more like Him, which is my daily desire. Our best role model is Jesus. We cannot compare ourselves with anyone greater or more admirable example of a person to walk after. Then there are times, to feel accepted, or under peer pressure, we may try to fit into a mold or be something we are not, or were never meant to be. How sad it is to feel pressure or expectations, when we were never meant to be a cheap imitation or replica of someone else, but instead we were designed our own unique person. We have to be true to ourselves and the Lord, asking Him what is it that He wants to do in our lives. We are all created so perfectly, woven in His hands and we are always being molded and shaped like clay. For He is the potter, we are the clay. We need to ask the Lord to melt us and mold us, into
never are even aware of. That’s why we have to ask the Lord
who He wants us to be.
to examine us, since our own views may be damaged from
I encourage you today, as I myself ask the Lord to
people, circumstances, past failures or successes and more.
examine me, that He would show you how He sees you, that
You may have had so many words spoken over you,
He would heal you, and you would find your true identity in Him. If you have never known the Lord in a real, personal
Sometimes we are just a collection of our circumstances.
relationship, I encourage you start a fresh and new beginning
How we see ourselves can be so involved with who we had
with Him, allowing God to mold you and make you into
as parents or as siblings, where we grew up, and under what
what He has for you.
circumstances/surroundings that we dealt with.
50 // July 2020
About The Author
especially negative ones, that you start to believe them.
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.
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