February 2020

Gò0dNews February 2020

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Hello Friends, We want to take a moment to tell you who we are and what we are about. Our names are Matt and Bethany Ruckman and we have five beautiful children, Brendon, Kailey, Andrew, Leah Jean, and Emma.

We live in Cleveland, Tennessee, and love what this town has to offer! We have started GoodNews Christian Magazine because we feel that when God, family, and community are combined, lives will be changed.

GoodNews Christian Magazine is a complimentary, Christian lifestyle publication. You can find us throughout the community in retail establishments, churches, restaurants, and more. Our magazine opens the door for Christians to work together to grow and strengthen our community through relevant editorial and effective advertising.

GoodNews Christian Magazine is written by men and women in the community who love and serve the Lord.

Our hearts are open and willing to be used by God to reach out to the community to spread the GoodNews!

Disclaimer All of the content in the GoodNews Christian Magazine is for general information and/or use. Such contents does not constitute advice and should not be relied upon in making (or refraining from making) a decision. Any specific advice or replies to queries in any part of the magazine is the personal opinion of such experts/consultants/persons and is not subscribed to by GoodNews Christian Magazine. The information in GoodNews Christian Magazine is provided on an “AS IS� basis, and all warranties, expressed or implied of any kind, regarding any matter pertaining to any information, advice or replies are disclaimed and excluded. We reserve the right to refuse any advertisement or article we deem inappropriate.

Contents FEBRUARY 2020

GoodNews from the Pastor’s Desk

6 Intentionally Giving

by Jamey Hunt

GoodNews for Kids

8 Miss Flayhive

by Mandi Bagwell

GoodNews on Money Matters

10 Found Money

by Andrew Lee

GoodNews for Men

12 Doing Nothing Can Be The Best Something

by David Crawford GoodNews for Women

14 Get And Stay Tuned In

by Toris Redding

GoodNews for Parents

18 Learn To Embrace Your Day

by Jennifer Cobb

GoodNews on Winterfest

20 Church of God Smoky

Mountain Winterfest Is A Gift From God

GoodNews Cover Story

22 PrimeCare Nursing Services GoodNews for Everyone

24 Love

by Jessica Burnham

GoodNews for Teens

26 Life Like A Fire

by Johnathon Stephens

GoodNews on Prayer

28 Always Praying

by Zebbie Brewster

GoodNews on Finances

30 Where To Start To Be

Successful With Money

by Charles Howell GoodNews for Everyone

32 Prayers Answered In A Barn

6

by Kyle Adcock

GoodNews for Husbands

34 Love Is A Verb, Men.

by Bill Fortenberry

GoodNews for Everyone

36 Freedom In Christ

by Lisa Hamilton

GoodNews for Everyone

38 #CoupleGoals

by Bridget Gray

GoodNews for Everyone

22

40 When the Busy Season Ends

by Jessica Mathis

GoodNews for your Taste Buds

42 My Father’s Made-FromScratch Biscuits

by Rhonda Lane

36

Gò0dNews from the Pastor’s Desk

Intentionally Giving

W

by Jamey Hunt

ith the Christmas season retreating in our rearview mirror, it may be helpful to take a look back at things with the benefit of hindsight! One of the real struggles for me in preparation for Christmas is the desire on one hand to give a generous and appropriate gift to people I love, and on the other hand, realizing that they already have what I would like to give them or could get it themselves if they wanted to. Perhaps you have heard this dilemma expressed in the form of a question: “What do you give the man who has everything?”

This year, I discovered a website dedicated to answering just such a dilemma: “Gifts For The Man Who Has Everything” (https:// thingamagift.com/gifts-for-the-man-who-haseverything/). Some of the items listed struck a nerve with me; some did not. The suggestions included: CIA survival training course, .50-caliber bullet bottle opener, race car driving course, hot air balloon ride, night vision goggles, and a book called, “Things That Might Kill You.” My personal favorite and one that will be on my Christmas wish list next year is a membership to the Bacon of the Month Club!

I found help with this by looking back at the Magi and their gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Think of what had just been given in Bethlehem! God gave King Herod a new, infant King, the Shepherd of Israel promised in Micah 5:2, 4, a Divine Sovereign worth serving. He gave knowledgeable men a thrilling search worth making. Through the Magi, God gave His Son Jesus valuable treasure worth surrendering to the Savior while Mary and Joseph watched in wonder. This pattern of serving, searching, and surrendering helps keep me grounded in times when I am otherwise uncertain and tentative about how to serve God. What does He want from me? He wants me!

However, I sometimes find myself unwilling to give myself to God. The creation shouts of God’s existence! Am I listening? The Bible, God’s word, reveals the plan and purposes of God in clear and unmistakable ways, but I often

6 // February 2020

neglect to read His word. Jesus’ intended role as Savior and Shepherd of my soul is easily understood, but I often resist and live my life by my own agenda. I become skilled at selfdeception and hide my motives from others just as Herod cloaked his murderous plan behind a worship shawl. My life of surrendered worship stalls out because I lack generosity and planning. A good friend of mine likes to say, “Sunday morning church is a Saturday night decision!” The gold, incense, and myrrh were a series of decisions and plans made well before the giving of the gift. With some planning, we

can navigate life in ways that allow us more opportunity and resources to intentionally show Jesus our love.

God gave us Jesus to save and lead us. What can we give Him? We can give Him ourselves! Give Him your whole life: the broken, shattered, and beautiful parts. Give Him your head. Think more about your faith and about God’s plans for you this year by studying the Bible more. Give Him your hands. Make a real commitment to serve others through your church or through regular ministry to someone with a need you can meet. Give Him your heart. Ask God to give you a deep love for Him and His church. Jesus said that our hearts follow our treasure. Give Him your financial and material resources. He gave them to you so you can be a steward of them. Use them well this year!

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Gò0dNews for Kids

Miss Flayhive

M

by Mandi Bagwell

y Nanny (grandmother) was a nurse. She was so much more than a nurse; however, that was her title at her job. Nanny took care of people: at

the nursing home, at home, and everywhere she went. She loved and was loved, which brings me to—Miss Flayhive.

You see, Nanny introduced me to Miss Flayhive when I was about 8 years old. Nanny got me a little nurse’s outfit, and about one hour before she got out of work at 11 p.m. on Fridays, my Mom or Dad would take me to the nursing home and I would get to make the last rounds with her before I got to spend the weekend with her. Miss Flayhive was my favorite, or should I say, my lesson, so after about three rooms, I stuck close with Miss Flayhive. She taught me a lot about love, life, and how to be happy even when circumstances aren’t the greatest.

See, Miss Flayhive was stuck in her room for years with no family around. She never complained at all, always smiled, and gave me at least five peppermints per night: the soft ones! My very favorite thing I remember about Miss Flayhive is she loved God and loved everyone, was kind, and was my bestest friend for many years. Age difference had no number with Miss Flayhive—I was 8 and she was 80-something. She always had a song in her heart and voice; her voice was beautiful in all of my memories. As I grew older, I didn’t have to wear my little nurse’s uniform to get I could just to learn more.

And then, one day, she was gone. I was sad, but there was no doubt she was sent by God to love and care for many, no matter why they were there; she was always joyful, full of God’s love, and thankful. She loved people she didn’t even know and prayed for them with LOVE; and her Bible was her guide, so close to her always.

Sometimes, life gets huge and feels like a HUGE mountain or even a HUGE disaster, but if we look around, God has sent people to love and teach us things that we will only learn from what was meant to be a Halloween costume

8 // February 2020

or a fun tradition with someone we love: until we meet the actual lesson. And, sometimes, WE are the lesson for others.

God always sends us lessons; sometimes, we mess them up and don’t pay attention—actually, a lot of times—but always open your eyes back up. You never know what He will teach you about love and life here on earth next.

“Dear friends, since God loved us that much, we surely ought to love each other. No one has ever seen God. But if we love each other, God lives in us, and his love is brought to full expression in us” (1 John 4:11-12).

About The Author

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Found Money 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.

M

any of us have experienced the joy of “found money”—whether it’s a few silver coins we discovered in the couch cushions, or paper money tucked into the pocket of our blue jeans. We always look at this lucky twist of fate as “free money.” And what is the likely result of our unexpected financial “windfall?” We spend it as quickly as possible, usually on something that brings instant gratification. In fact, “found money” is least likely to be saved, much less invested. Why is that?

Because we didn’t work for this money, or earn it, so it “costs” us nothing—at least that’s what we tell ourselves to rationalize our impulsive choice to spend the money quickly. Quick quiz: when was the last time you received cash or a check in a birthday card or as a Christmas present? What did you do with the money? Can you put your hands on it now?

Luckily, these are rhetorical questions. We already know the answer, and it’s very likely “no.” The money was a gift, so it was (in your mind) meant to be “spent” on something that made you feel good. After all, you told yourself, that’s what “they” would want, and that’s why they gifted you the money—to enjoy yourself. So you spent the money at the first opportunity. After all, you wouldn’t want to disappoint the giver, would you?

Recently, I had the opportunity to test my own resolve regarding “found money.” My father came over to my house and said he had a surprise for me which he found in an old box in his attic. It was $400 worth of U.S. savings bonds which I had won in an essay contest in 1986 when

10 // February 2020

I was 17 years old. (I’ve always loved writing. Go figure).

I was elated. This was “found money” for sure. I took the savings bonds to the bank and learned they were now worth $922 with all the interest over thirty-three years. Sounds great, right? That is, until you realize that the interest on these savings bonds was a little over two percent per year.

In other words, they just kept up with inflation. Instead, imagine if that $400 had been invested in a broad stock market index fund earning on average 9%-11% per year.

During that time period, $400 could have turned into $7,000 or $13,000.

So what looks like a “lucky” instance of “found money” is less attractive when you consider that $922 of my compounded interest could have easily been $7,000-$13,000 instead if I’d invested it in a stock index mutual fund. And let’s get even crazier. What if I had put that $400 in savings bonds into a brand new company which went public in 1986 and began selling shares on the stock market? The company was called Microsoft, and today that $400 from my essay contest prize would be worth about $700,000.

Considering my essay was about one thousand words, that’s seven hundred dollars per word! Not bad for a seventeenyear-old who took about thirty minutes to write the essay.

We can’t go back and change the past. But we can start now. So I took that $922 from the bank last month and immediately invested it into a broad stock market index fund for my daughter’s wedding. She’s ten years old. By her wedding day, that money should be worth at least several thousand dollars—a gift from my seventeen-year-old self to a daughter I never knew I’d have one day. How cool is that?

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Gò0dNews for Men Doing Nothing Can Be The Best Something

by David Crawford

I

don’t know what it is about the human condition that

it, and in fact, I believe there is good money to be made

makes us think we must change something in order to

by those who can fix that which is broken. Evaluating

prove we have done something. Sometimes, a decision

something to determine if it is broken is also something I

not to change is what needs to be done and is the best

highly encourage, and the ability to find flaws within an

something you can do. Perhaps it’s an overdeveloped sense

existing process is also something I believe to be worthy

of importance that causes us to feel that any decision made

of great monetary value. But, and this is a big but, if after

prior to our “arrival” couldn’t possibly be good and that

evaluating a process you don’t see any problems (drum roll,

because we didn’t have a say in it, it needs to be changed.

please), leave it alone. Maybe the people who put the process

Maybe it’s an inability to see we are not as smart as we

in place were thoughtful, intelligent, considerate, rational,

thought, and we either can’t understand, or we are unwilling to take time to understand, the rationale for the policy that is already in place, or perhaps a myriad of other reasons I am unable to articulate due to an unwillingness to think about it anymore, or a lack of intellectual prowess, or both.

I have seen it in the educational system, and I’m sure you have seen it in the organizations in which you work and/or participate. At one point, there was actually a phrase circulating that said, “If it ain’t broke, break it.” While I understand the figurative implications of this phrase, the type of actions this phrase

sentient beings who came up with a good idea without you

suggests is different than the overall meaning those that

or me! Maybe this world will go on without our input on

espouse it wish to convey. Breaking something that isn’t

every little thing. Maybe, if it ain’t broke, you don’t need to

broken is not the same as “thinking outside the box” or

break it, and if you think you should, please start with your

“daring to be different.” Changing something that is not

car or the plumbing leading to your septic tank because

broken just because you can is not good—it’s bad.

sometimes, doing nothing can be the best something you

If it needs changing, then, in at least a very small sense,

can do.

something that’s broken is good. I highly recommend

12 // February 2020

About The Author

it’s broken. And broken things need to be fixed. So fixing David Crawford and his wife Amy have been married 25 years. They have 2 kids. He is also the Music Director at Pleasant Grove United Methodist Church in Dalton, GA.

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Gò0dNews for Women

Get And Stay Tuned In here are many voices and outlets designed to sway our thinking and decisions. However, in 2020 and beyond, it will be vital that we tune in to the voice of God’s Spirit unlike any other time in our history. There is an enemy of our souls who is on the prowl like never before, “seeking whom he may devour” (1 Peter 5:8). That means satan seeks to utterly destroy, obliterate, do away with, and not just do harm. God tells us in 1 Peter 5:7-8 to cast the whole of our care upon the Him because He cares for us and to be sober or calm and collected in the spirit, temperate, and even-keeled. There’s only one way to live that way, and that is by tuning in: looking inwardly to the One who lives in us.

Jesus told us this in John 14:16-18: “And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Helper (Comforter, Advocate, Intercessor—Counselor, Strengthener, Standby), to be with you forever—the Spirit of Truth, whom the world cannot receive [and take to its heart] because it does not see Him or know Him, but you know Him because He (the Holy Spirit) remains with you continually and will be in you. I will not leave you as orphans [comfortless, bereaved, and helpless]; I will come [back] to you.”

Jesus has made a promise to not leave us helpless and without someone to comfort and counsel us, strengthen and encourage us, and always be on standby for us. That person is the Holy Spirit. He is the same Person who lived in and empowered Jesus in the tumultuous yet exciting times in which Jesus lived. He only did and said what He saw of the Father (John 5:19; John 8:26, 28; John 14:10), and this was because of His connection and tuning in to Holy Spirit. Jesus was never wringing His hands and worrying and fretting over what to do or say next. And His life and actions were most definitely NOT governed, hindered, or moved by the religious, governmental, or educational systems of the world. We are told Christ left an example for us of how to live, and we are to follow in His footsteps. Since He only did what the Father told Him, then so should we.

14 // February 2020

There will lots of opinions, critics, slanderers, and mockers in 2020 and beyond to condemn and shame the Body of Christ to back down from what is right, good, true, lovely, honest, and of a good report to our God. Our Jesus has said these words to us in John 16:7, 13-14: “I tell you the truth, it is to your advantage that I go away; for if I do not go away, the Helper (Comforter, Advocate, IntercessorCounselor, Strengthener, Standby) will not come to you; but if I go , I will send Him (the Holy Spirit) to you to be in close fellowship with you…But when He, the Spirit of Truth comes, He will guide you into all the truth. For He will not speak on His own initiative, but He will speak whatever He hears from the Father.”

We can count on what we hear inwardly from the still small voice inside. Jesus has guaranteed us with His own life’s example and His word that the Holy Spirit will only give and lead us to truth. Tune in to the inside where the Holy Spirit lives. Let your vision and hearing be sharpened in 2020 by staying tuned in through prayer, quiet time in His presence, and meditation in His Word. Always ask the Holy Spirit for answers and direction, welcoming Him in every part of your daily life and throughout each day. Ask Him to connect you with other Holy Spirit-led brothers and sisters, people who sharpen you and who you can sharpen.

About The Author

T

by Toris Redding

Toris Redding is married to Detrick Redding, and he is the pastor of Rally Up Church in Rome, Georgia. Together, they have four beautiful children and reside in Rome.

Rome Church Directory

African Methodist Episcopal Bethel AME Church 22 Nichols Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-295-0019 St. James AME Zion Church 3 Maxwell Lane Rome, GA 30165 706 853-8059 Summer Hill AME Church 1981 Kingston Hwy NE Rome, Ga 30161 706-235-7113

Anglican

St. Andrew’s Anglican Church 42 Ash Street Rome, Ga 30161 706-235-5892

Apostolic

First Apostolic Church of Rome 3213 Cave Spring Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-235-9551

Assembly of God

Redemption Church 105 Broadus Road NE Rome, Ga 30161 706-232-0277

Baptist

Antioch Baptist Church 4526 Big Texas Valley Rome, Ga 30165 706-232-7248 Armuchee Baptist Church 6648 Big Texas Valley Rd NW Rome, Ga 30165 706-235-3169 Berean Baptist Church 8 Skyline Dr Rome, Ga 30161 706-295-9832 Blue Pond Baptist Church 1291 Morrison Campground Rome, Ga 30161 706-235-3296 Bryant Chapel Baptist Church 24 Shady Lane Rome, Ga 30161 706-235-9768 Bush Arbor Baptist Church 3290 Black Bluff Rd Rome, Ga. 30161 770-885-0779 Calhoun Avenue Baptist Church 1021 Calhoun Ave Rome, Ga 30161 706-234-4431 Calvary Baptist Church 101 Broadus Rd NE Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-1461 Cedar Valley Baptist Church 3024 Cedartown Hwy SW Rome, Ga 30161 706-295-0978 Community Chapel Baptist Church 3733 Black Bluff Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-232-4070 Desoto Park Baptist Church 1107 Cave Spring Rd. Rome, Ga 30161 706-232-6207 Dykes Creek Baptist Church 3181 Kingston Hwy NE Rome Ga, 30161

16 // February 2020

706-291-7790 East Rome Baptist Church 601 Cedar Ave Rome, Ga 30161 706-234-8553 East View Baptist Church 901 Kingston Ave Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-8250 Emmanuel Baptist Church 1414 Old Dalton Rd Rome, Ga 30165 706-232-3939 Enon Baptist Church 3105 Turkey Mountain Rome, Ga 30161 706-295-5052 Fairview Baptist Church 2348 Old Cedartown Hwy SE Lindale, Ga 30147 Fellowship Rome Baptist Church 314 Burnett Ferry Rd Rome, Ga 30165 706-234-9416 First Baptist Church 100 E 4th Ave Rome, Ga 30161 706-295-1150 Flatrock Baptist Church 848 Cunningham Rd SW Rome, Ga 30161 706-234-9976 Flint Hill Baptist Church 3578 Wax Rd SE, Aragon, GA 30104 706-232-8121 Friendship Baptist Church 2283 Calhoun Rd NE Rome, Ga 30161 706-295-4803 Garden Lakes Baptist Church 2200 Redmond Cir Rome, Ga 30165 706-234-6615 Greater Mount Calvary Baptist 445 East 14th St Rome, Ga 30161 706-234-5047 Hill Crest Baptist Church 2202 N Broad St Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-8806 Hollywood Baptist Church 112 Lombardy Way Rome, Ga 30161 706-234-6642 In Focus Baptist Church 12 N Hughes Rome, Ga 30165 706-234-8963 Lakeview Baptist Church 80 Salem Dr Rome, Ga 30165 706-235-2149 Lovejoy Baptist Church 436 Branham Ave Rome, Ga 30171 706-232-1917 McFall Baptist Church 3011 Rockmart Rd SE Rome, Ga 30161 706-235-5673 Mount Alto Church 1915 Huffaker Rd NW Rome, Ga 30165 706-232-6222 Mount Carmel Baptist Church E 20th St Rome, Ga 30161 706-232-8777

Mount Olive Baptist Church 17 E Pennington Rome, Ga 30161 706-234-6413 New Antioch Baptist Church 4553 Calhoun Rd NE Rome, Ga 30161 706-295-2248 New Bethel Baptist Church Weathington Dr Rome, Ga 30161 706, 291-8939 New Canaan Baptist Church 3 Excelsior St Rome, Ga 30165 706-291-1984 New Hope Baptist Church Hwy 156 Rome, Ga 706-235-0250 New Hope Baptist Church 399 Moran Lake Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-290-0507 North Broad Baptist Church 1309 N Broad St Rome, Ga 30161 706-295-2100 Northwood Missionary Baptist 4076 Calhoun Rd NE Rome, Ga 30161 Park Ave Baptist Church 531 Park Ave SE Lindale, GA 30147 Parkview Baptist Church 4 Wesley Drive Rome, Ga 30165 706-232-4431 PisGah Baptist Church Alabama Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-232-4431 Pleasant Hope Baptist Church 5935 Rockmart Road SE Silver Creek, Ga 706-235-2800 Pleasant Grove Baptist Church 500 N Division St Rome, Ga 30165 706-235-0731 Pleasant Valley North Baptist 735 Old Summerville Road NW Rome, GA 30165 706-232-6426 Pleasant Valley South Baptist 702 Pleasant Valley Rd SE Silver Creek, Ga 30173 706-234-1841 Providence Baptist Church 17 Burnett Ferry Road SW Rome, Ga 30165 706-291-0689 Riverside Baptist Church 48 Ash Street Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-8114 State Line Baptist Church 8536 Black Bluff Road Cave Spring, Ga 30124 678-988-0339 Saint Paul Baptist Church Pleasant Valley Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-235-5037 Second Avenue Baptist 823 E 2nd Ave Rome, Ga 30161 706-232-3663 Sherwood Forest Baptist Church 1 Goodman Rd

Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-6174 Shorter Avenue Baptist Church 1410 Shorter Ave Rome, Ga 30165 706-234-8266 South Broad Baptist Church 508 South Broad St Rome, Ga 30161 Spring Creek Baptist Church 2636 Chulio Rd SE Rome, Ga 30161 706-234-1220 Springfield Baptist Church 113 Smith St Rome, Ga 30161 706-295-7217 Thankful Baptist Church 935 Spider Webb Dr Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-8132 Three Rivers Church 2960 New Calhoun Highway NE Rome, Ga 706-766-0942 Trinity Baptist Church 1728 Calhoun Rd NE Rome, Ga 30161 706-295-3368 Turner Chapel Baptist Church 756 Turner Chapel Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-235-8682 Unity Baptist Church 2261 Pleasant Valley Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-232-2184 West End Baptist Church 107 Mississippi Dr Rome, Ga 30165 706-235-1971 West Rome Baptist Church 914 Shorter Ave Rome, Ga 30165 706-232-9722 Wilkerson Road Baptist Church Wilkerson Rd Rome, Ga 30161 Woodlawn Baptist Church 1649 Cartersville Hwy SE Rome, Ga 30161 706-232-4171 Word & Way Baptist Church New Rocketmart Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-234-8729

Catholic

Saint Mary Catholic Church 911 N Broad St Rome, Ga 30161 706-295-7014

Christian & Missionary Alliance

Missionary Alliance 306 Coker Dr Rome, Ga 20165 706-235-9190

Church of Christ

Church of Christ 108 E Callahan St Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-0675 Lindale Church of Christ 3035 Maple Road Lindale, Ga 30147 706-234-3027 Oak Hill Church of Christ 1500 Martha Berry Hwy

Rome, Ga 20165 706-291-0351 Rome Church of Christ 121 Primrose Road Rome, Ga 30161 706-234-4444

Church of God

Armuchee Church of God 4974 Martha Berry Hwy Rome, Ga 30165 706-232-4414 Beech Creek Church of God 3000 Alabama Hwy NW Rome, Ga 30165 706-234-7466 Church of God of Prophecy 94 Huffaker Rd. Rome, GA 30165 706-528-4225 Lindale Church of God 585 Park Ave Lindale, Ga 30147 706-232-5676 New Life Church of God 210 E 18th St Rome, Ga 30161 706-232-0704 New Hope Overcoming Church of God 200 Nixon Ave Rome, Ga 30161 706-234-4695 North Rome Church of God 1929 N Broad St Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-6687 Rome AOH Church of God 504 Decatur St Rome, Ga 30165 706-295-2999 West Rome Church of God UA 2827 Alabama Hwy Rome, Ga 30165 706-880-6895

Disciples of Christ

First Christian Church 209 E. Second Ave, Rome, Ga 30161

Episcopal

Church of the Transfiguration 304 Coker Dr Rome, Ga 30165 706-234-0197 Saint Peter’s Episcopal Church 101 E 4th Ave Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-9111

Foursquare

Rome Foursquare Church 308 Reservoir St NE Rome, Ga 30161

Full Gospel

Christ Gospel Church 619 Chulio Rd SE Rome, Ga 30161 706-234-7744

Independent Bible

Grace Bible Church

614 Dalton Rd NE Rome, Ga 30165

Interdenominational

Cornerstone Church 324 Mathis Dr Rome, Ga 30165 706-234-4923 Renovation Church 2601 Shorter Ave. Rome, Ga 30165 (706) 936-1380

Lutheran

Holy Trinity Lutheran Church 3000 Garden Lakes Blvd Rome, Ga 30165 706-232-7257

Methodist

Beech Creek UMC 2972 Alabama Hwy, Rome, Ga 30165 706-235-4973 Chapel Hill UMC 1818 Kingston Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-232-9177 Holsey Sinai CME Church 1233 Martin L King Rome, Ga 30161 706-295-7265 Lindsay Chapel UMC 9 College Park Dr SW Rome, Ga 30161 Livingston UMC 21 E Lakeshore Dr SE Rome, Ga 30161 Metropolitan UMC 700 Broad St Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-8660 Mt Pleasant UMC 4782 Alabama Hwy Rome, Ga 30165 706-232-4350 New Bethel Methodist Church Reeceburg Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-235-9700 North Rome UMC 706-291-6704 Oostanaula UMC 74 Battey Farm Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-292-0084 Rome First UMC 202 E 3rd Ave Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-8590 Rush Chapel UMC 1225 Rush Chapel Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-7986 Scott Chapel UMC 3 Chambers St NE Rome, Ga 30161 Second Avenue UMC 801 E Second Ave SW Rome, GA 30161 Shannon UMC 600 First Street Shannon, GA 30172

706-491-7112 Silver Creek UMC 585 Reynolds Bend Rd Rome, GA 30161 706-234-2518 South Broad UMC 546 S Broad St Rome, Ga 30161 706-232-5230 Trinity UMC 606 Turner McCall Blvd SW Rome, Ga 30165 706-291-0033 Wesley Chapel UMC 9 College Park Dr SW Rome, Ga 30161 West Rome UMC 1003 Shorter Ave PO Box 2247 Rome, GA 30164 706-234-6214

Nazarene

Rome First Church of the Nazarene 20 Glenda Dr Rome, Ga 30165 706-234-5023

Non-Denominational

Access Church 1905 Calhoun Rd Rome, Ga 30161 705-584-7497 Christian Church at Rome 2417 Shorter Ave Rome, GA 30165 706-235-0501 Glorious New Jerusalem Church 537 W 12th St Rome, Ga 30165 706-295-2045 Glory Tabernacle Church 300 Watson St Rome, Ga 30165 706-235-0888 Gospel Harvester Church 1246 Cartersville Hwy SE Rome, Ga 30161 706-290-9858 LIFE Church of Rome 19 John Davenport Drive Rome GA 30165 706-728-3166 Lighthouse Church of Rome Lighthouse Dr SE Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-0864 New and Living Way Bible Church 59 Dykes Creek Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-233-9200 Northside Church 75 N. Floyd Park Rd. Rome, Ga 30165 706-233-9896 Rally Up International 1941 Shorter Avenue Rome, Ga 30165 706-235-8561 Solid Holy Rock Deliverance Tabernacle 700 Kingston Ave

Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-8948 The Church at Rome 246 North 5th Avenue Rome, Ga 30165 706-346-2733 The Place Global 1107 Calhoun Ave Rome, Ga 30161 706.802.2059 Trinity United Christian Church 6 Deer Run Trail Rome, Ga 30165 706-204-8270 We The Church 810 East 2nd Ave Rome, Ga 30161 Words of Faith Tabernacle 3134 Rockmart Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-314-9158

Orthodox

All Saints Church 615 Cleveland Ave Rome, Ga 30165 706-378-4474

Pentecostal

Cannon Temple Holiness Church 308 Porter St Rome, Ga 20161 706-233-9001 Christ Temple Holiness Church 1321 Martin L King Rome, Ga 30161 706-235-3787 Victory Temple Of Joy 118 Williamson St. Rome, Ga 30165 706-766-3865

Presbyterian

Covenant Presbyterian Church EPC 1645 Cartersville Hwy. Rome, GA 30161 706-767-8373 First Presbyterian Church EPC 101 E 3rd Ave Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-6033 Silver Creek Presbyterian Church 6 Old Rockmart Road Silver Creek, Ga 30173 706-234-6862 Westminster Presbyterian Church 1941 Shorter Ave Rome, Ga 30165 706-235-8561

Seventh-Day Adventist

Rome Bethany Seventh-Day Adventist Church 307 E 14th St SW Rome, Ga 30161 706-292-0067 Seventh-Day Adventist Church 2526 Cedartown Hwy SW Rome, Ga 30161 706-234-4117

Cave Spring Church Directory

Cave Spring Church of God 19 Mill Street Cave Spring, GA 30124 706-777-8348 Cedar Creek Baptist Church 5440 Black Buff Rd Rome, Ga 30161

706-777-8360 Live Oak Baptist Church 5506 GA-100 Cave Spring, GA 30124 706-777-8566 The Empty Tomb 5630 Fosters Mill Rd SW

Cave Spring, GA 30124 Rehoboth Missionary Baptist 6 Rehoboth Rd SW Cave Spring, GA 30124 706-777-3313 First Baptist Church 4 Old Cedartown Rd.

Cave Spring, GA 30124 706-777-3566 Cave Spring UMC 30 Alabama Street Cave Spring, GA 30124 (706) 777-8624

goodnewscm.com // 17

Gò0dNews for Parents

Learn To Embrace Your Day

W

by Jennifer Cobb

hen I first started my homeschooling journey over three years ago, I was going to make it seamless and perfect. (Imagine a beautiful Instagram picture with handmade baked treats, everyone smiling and loving their non-messy craft that was perfectly done in front of them.) Instead, I was met with many unrealistic goals I had set for myself and a not-so-enthused kindergartner for the homeschool life.

Instead of a beautiful picture I had in my head, it was more like the dishes had exploded, glue was everywhere on the floor, and tears were shed over forced writing assignments. Fast forward to now, and I have realized how to find the true freedom of homeschooling, which also translates to everyday life. Ready for this mindblowing revelation? Embrace. Choose to embrace yourself in your good qualities and your bad.

Choose to set realistic goals, and wholeheartedly embrace your failures.

With January, New Year’s resolutions are always something that you ponder. Whether you actually make a foolproof plan or you just contemplate what you would like to change in the upcoming year, be gracious to yourself. When we set unrealistic expectations, the failure mentality sinks in hard, and we give up. So as we embrace the upcoming 2020 year, give yourself permission to find the beauty in who you are and to be gracious for what you feel needs to be changed.

In today’s homeschool lesson, you will still probably find glue (and glitter) on the floor

18 // February 2020

and definitely piles of dishes in the sink, but our home is way more feasible concerning the lifestyle and the season that we are in. It is much more enjoyable than it was two years ago. I have embraced the fact that I am not the early riser to our day, or the Momma who is quick to clean up crafts, or the best baker. But I try to do my best and have fun making memories in the process of embracing every part of our day.

Church Activities & Events West Rome Baptist Church Collide 2020 Conference

Friday, February 21st | 6PM - Sunday, February 23rd | 12PM 914 Shorter Avenue NW, Rome, GA

Trinity United Methodist

Trinity Youth Soup-Off Fundraiser Sunday, February 2nd | 11AM - 1PM 606 Turner McCall Blvd, Rome, GA

First United Methodist

Quilt Raffle For One Community 202 East 3rd Avenue, Rome, GA

770.540.0088 | brantley.wilson@gmail.com

Gò0dNews on Winterfest

Church of God Smoky Mountain Winterfest Is A Gift From God

A

rguably, Smoky Mountain Winterfest does more for evangelism, spiritual growth, genuine encounters with God, and callings to ministry than almost anything else. This ministry brings revival, friendship, renewal, and connection to students from throughout the USA. The fuel, energy, excitement, and relationship connections experienced at Winterfest change young people; their hearts, their hopes, their hurts, and their homes.

Smoky Mountain Winterfest has come a long way since 1982, when 279 students and five youth leaders gathered for a winter youth retreat in Gatlinburg, TN. The story of Winterfest and the ensuing years of growth is an amazing one. By 1986, Winterfest attendance was 2,300. The new movement found favor and alignment with the International Department of Youth and Discipleship and became a flagship ministry. Instead of seeking to “take it over” with a top-down leadership management style, leaders embraced the concept and were eager to find new ways to maximize the success of this ministry.

By 1995, it took two jam-packed services each night at the new Gatlinburg Convention Center to provide the almost 13,000 students a chance to worship, pray, and seek the face of God. The first session would begin at 6:00 pm with doors opening at 4:30 pm, and the second session would begin at 9:30 pm. For five years this was the process.

It was awesome to watch 6,500 leave through one set of doors and 6,500 march in through another with the same excitement (or more) as the first group. The final session never concluded until about midnight, and it was usually 2:00 am before any of the Winterfest steering committee could get to bed!

In the year 2000, Winterfest made the courageous decision to move to Thompson Boling Arena in Knoxville... and the rest is history. For 20 years, the arena used for Tennessee Volunteer Basketball has become an enormous sanctuary. Now Winterfest reaches around the country and around the world to four continents, (Europe, Africa, Asia, & North America) giving hope, peace, and passion for Christ to 40,000-50,000 students annually!

20 // February 2020

Almost three generations have experienced the wonder of Winterfest. Jesus and Relationships are the two elements that stand strong and at the center. Undoubtedly, participants will find a generous supply of BOTH again this year as Kari Jobe, People & Songs, Travis Green, Brian Bullock, Chris Durso, Reggie Dabbs, Bernard Harris, Jason Crabb, and Preston Centuolo minister. That weekend thousands of students and youth leaders will worship and pray together at Smoky Mountain Winterfest in Knoxville!

What happens at Winterfest? Students get healed of deep scars and wounds. Students are filled with the power of the Holy Spirit with initial evidence of that experience!

Teenagers are called into ministry, and in ensuing years, those callings fulfilled as they become youth and children’s pastors, missionaries, and lead pastors. Students are reunited with friends from other churches near home, as well as making new friends from other states. Youth leaders, sleep deprived and weary, drive church vans toward home with renewed passion and deep love for their students and ministry!

You can’t bottle up Winterfest and pass it out. You can’t, with words, adequately describe what it is and does. You can’t calculate how many were eternally changed or how many ministries that were launched. Do you know why?

Because Winterfest belongs to God; He only loans it to us.

What a gracious gift God has given to us through Smoky Mountain Winterfest for nearing 40 years.

To learn more about this ministry visit mywinterfest.com

PrimeCare provides in-home services and personal care, so you can

stay in the comfort of your own home.

PrimeCare provides quality one-on-one care to clients requiring assistance in the home, hospital, nursing home or assisted living facility. We provide care from a one time visit to twenty-four hours, seven days a week. Sometimes just a little assistance can help avoid a decline in health or independence. Others need help to continue living safely at home or to recover from injury, illness or surgery. Individuals have different needs and PrimeCare specializes in designing a unique care plan for each client. RNs and LPNs supervise all services and are available for consulting or problem solving 24 hours a day.

We coordinate client care by maintaining open communication with the referring physician, the client and the family.

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PrimeCare Nursing Services

P

rimeCare Nursing Services is entering its 27th year

children. He knew that without help from his extended

of business this year. This is no small feat for a small,

family and friends, he would not have been able to be there

family-owned business in the health care industry. It

with his mother in those important last years of her life. This

has been assisting seniors and the disabled in the Northwest

experience led to his desire to begin PrimeCare. He wanted

Georgia area since 1993.

to give to others what his friends and family had given to

James Fuqua opened PrimeCare because he wanted to make a difference in his local community. He knew firsthand how important it is for families to have assistance

him. He was able to share the weight of caregiving, have a support system, and feel like he was not alone.”

James passed away unexpectedly in 2016. Linda now

and resources when caring for their loved ones at home.

operates the business with their daughter, Natasha Fields,

James’s wife, Linda Fuqua, shared the inspiration for

who is the Chief Operating Officer. Natasha feels fortunate

PrimeCare: “James’ mother was diagnosed with cervical

that PrimeCare is a family-owned-and-operated business

cancer in the early 1970s and was cared for at home for

and is able to carry out the vision her father started.

seven years before her death. James felt the weight of

“Because we are not part of a franchise, we have the ability

helping his mother with everyday tasks—ensuring she

to make and implement policies that keep with the culture

had assistance with bathing, dressing, housekeeping,

started by my father, not those of a big corporation,”

medication management, meal preparation, and errands,

Natasha said. “We want our clients, caregivers, and staff to

to name a few. Near the end of her life, she became bed-

feel like they are part of a family. My dad always said that

bound and completely dependent on others. James became

you cannot be in the business of taking care of people if you

overwhelmed, as he had a family of his own with young

don’t take care of your own people. This has always been

22 // February 2020

our guiding light in business. We know that our caregivers and staff are not just employees. They are our family. By developing personal relationships and treating them like family, we know they are doing the same for our clients.”

PrimeCare’s caregivers assist individuals with activities of daily living. This assistance consists of bathing, dressing, light housekeeping, medication assistance, meal preparation, errands, companionship, and socialization.

Not only do area seniors benefit from this type of support, but others benefit as well. PrimeCare’s clientele includes infants, children, disabled adults, those recovering from any type of surgery, individuals suffering from on-the-job injuries, and new mothers who may need a helping hand after giving birth.

PrimeCare’s mission of treating others like family starts at the top and works its way down to the caregivers. Kyle Ivester, who serves as President of PrimeCare, has been with the company for 20 years. He believes in helping anyone that he can, in any way, at any time—whether professionally or personally. He and his wife, Carla Ivester, serve as Directors of Youth Ministries at Garden Lakes Baptist Church, where they find immense satisfaction in being able to serve others.

“Especially as the baby-boomer generation ages, there is always going to be a need for private duty home care companies like PrimeCare. There are many other companies in our area that provides our same services, but we believe our advantage is our caregivers,” explained Natasha.

Nikeda King of Rome has been with PrimeCare for just over a year. At a recent caregiver training session, Nikeda said, “I really enjoy working for a company that appreciates my hard work and notices it. The last job I worked at for 14 years never once appreciated me for anything I did over those years.” Nikeda recently received a Rising Star Award. These are given to caregivers who generously give of themselves to clients by doing more than just performing required tasks. One of Nikeda’s clients called to tell PrimeCare what a great job she does and that she goes above what is required.

Over 50% of PrimeCare’s caregivers have been with

then not only do I feel I’ve made their day better, they’ve made mine better. I’ve been with PrimeCare for all these years because they have a heart. Not only do they really care about their clients but they are the same way about their employees. They are like the old-timey companies who treat employees like family.”

As Onboarding Specialist Lana Gonzalez filters through applicants and interviews perspective employees, she recognizes caregiver traits that lead to successful hires and longevity with the company. “Those caregivers who have cared for their own families seem to have a genuine desire to help others and are more apt to continue in this type of job long term,” Lana said.

James’s experience with his mother all those years ago couldn’t ring truer than with Lana’s assessment. People want to know their loved ones are happy and healthy and that their needs are being met. There are times when a family cannot meet all of these needs for their loved one and they need additional resources and assistance.

PrimeCare Nursing Services is a company that has a family of caregivers wanting to help yours.

the company over five years, and 30% have been with PrimeCare over 10 years. PrimeCare must be doing something right to be met with such loyalty. Lynn Keener of Rockmart, a caregiver with PrimeCare for almost 10 years, knows just the reason. “I continue to do this job for the personal satisfaction. If I can make someone smile or laugh,

goodnewscm.com // 23

Gò0dNews for Everyone

Love

I

by Jessica Burnham f you google “self-love books,” there is no

Son of Man came not to be served but to serve,

shortage of options to pick from. Self-love has

and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

become a huge movement in this last decade.

Love others; serve others. Give yourself to

Love yourself and put yourself first is the anthem

service. Get involved in the church or community

we hear over and over again. I would encourage

and find a place to put your strengths to good use.

you to put God first in 2020. I’m not saying you

I’ve heard that 10% of the people do 90% of the

should never take time for yourself or do the

work needed in the Church. Let’s make 2020 the

things you enjoy. The Bible says God is Love, so

year that changes.

serve? In Mark chapter 10, it states, “For even the 24 // February 2020

About The Author

who better is there to teach us how to love and Jessica Burnham and her husband, Danny reside in Rome, Georgia. She is the mother of three children, a full time student, and a licensed practical nurse.

Gò0dNews for Teens

Life Like A Fire

O

by Johnathon Stephens

ne of my favorite memories as a kid was visiting

complete control over its intensity. No matter how big a

my grandparents’ house during the winter

bonfire one builds outside, or how hot a fire in a fireplace

months. Even though I stayed with them during

gets, it is totally up to the one watching over it as to how

the summer because of my parents’ work schedules, there

well it does. If a fire is hot enough and big enough, it can

was something different about winter. As soon as one would

withstand rain, snow, sleet, and hail. However, the caretaker

walk into their living room, the smell that the old wood

of said fire must keep feeding it. They must make sure it has

heater put out would remind me that I was home. Its warm

the right amount of wood and oxygen. If the fireplace in my

and cozy heat could not be beaten, in my opinion.

living room gets low on wood, it will not heat my house as it is intended to do.

That concept can also be applied to our spiritual life. We must continue to spiritually feed ourselves in order to withstand the trials and tests that life can throw at us. If our spiritual fire is taken care of and fed daily, then it will remain hot enough to stay burning in hard times. If we grow lax in our efforts to keep it burning, we will one day turn around and wonder how we ended up so far from our intended purpose. Also, when the heat of a hot fire burns healthy, others around it can feel

Even though my grandparents’ house had central heat

the effects of its warmth. Jesus tells us in Matthew chapter

and air conditioning, they always relied on that old wood

28 to go and make disciples of all nations. When your fire

heater, for some particular reason. When my wife and I were

burns hot for Jesus, it affects those around you. People at

looking to purchase our first home a couple of years ago, I

work, school, and maybe even the grocery store will know

personally had one requirement: a real fireplace! As time has

that you are putting off warmth that is not found out in the

passed, I have sat many hours and stared at many fires in

world. Therefore, go dig into the teachings of Jesus, and

the brick fireplace that sits in our living room.

throw another log on your fire.

learned from a fire. There is one aspect of a controlled fire that not many think about. That is, the one tending it has

26 // February 2020

About The Author

I have often wondered what spiritual principles can be Johnathon Stephens serves as the worship and student pastor at Mt. Alto in Rome, Georgia. He has a bachelor’s in music and ministry. He is married to wife Sarah and they welcomed their first baby in August of 2018. He’s a beautiful baby boy named Thomas.

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HOME HEALTH

Gò0dNews on Prayer

Always Praying

A

by Zebbie Brewster

s I was talking to my Mom one morning

the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for

over the phone, she said, “I can’t do much,

ever. Amen.”

but I can pray.” At age 81, she reminds

Much can be done through prayer: going to

me every time I talk to her how the Good Lord is

God with adoration, confession, thanksgiving, and

always taking care of her. She always reminds me

supplication. How would you pray if you knew

to pray for her. It seems she set the example for

nothing was impossible for God to do? Luke 1:37:

prayer a long time ago in my life. She always took

“For with God nothing shall be impossible.” Do we

time out of her busy day and went to God in prayer for the burdens of her heart.

We could hear her praying when we were children. I did not see then how important those prayers were at that time. I can see now that God has honored those prayers all of our lives. It seems many times that God would put it on her heart to pray especially hard for us and for her to find later on that we were in dire need of prayers. God is so good like that. The

speak words of doubt to God when we pray, or do

Bible has much to say about prayer. The dear Lord

we pray believing God is able to work according to

Jesus Christ set the example for prayer.

His perfect will?

Matthew 6:9-13: “After this manner therefore

The prayers of my Mom will forever be a

pray ye: Our Father which are in heaven, Hallowed

blessing to me. I hope you too can be a blessing to

be thy name. Thy kingdom come, Thy will be

someone by always praying for them.

done in earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is

28 // February 2020

About The Author

day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, Zebbie Brewster resides in Summerville, Georgia. She is an active member at Perennial Springs Baptist Church.

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Gò0dNews on Finances Where To Start To Be Successful With Money udgeting sounds so boring and painful. It might be both. It is a discipline. Regardless if you are deeply in debt or making great money, a budget is critical in both situations!

To be a winner at budgeting, you must change your mindset. A budget isn’t just a constraint of your spending; it can be an invaluable guide to where your money needs to go! It is like guard rails on the highway but also like a road map, ensuring you arrive at your destination and see your goals and dreams realized.

Budgeting is not technically hard. It is just a new discipline to master. If you have never budgeted before, it can take a few months to get it accurate and helpful.

• It will identify spending that needs to be eliminated or reigned in • It will make sure every dollar you make is working to its maximum • It will make sure you are prioritizing your spending appropriately If this all sounds painful, it can be as easy as these steps: • Start on paper. Each month, list out your sources of income at the top of a sheet of paper. Total that. Below that, list out your expenses. Total that. Subtract the expense total from the income total. This is where you identify where you can save or spend.

• Throughout the month, record each line item as you spend it. This is the reason it takes a few months, as sometimes, you need time to discover all your expenses and get them recorded.

• Your budget for now needs to show ZERO at the bottom of the sheet, meaning that every dollar you make, you are purposely spending and putting it to work. Nothing should be left in the account other than enough to keep it open.

• Repeat each month. Each month will be different, as your income and expenses can change.

I did my budget for years on paper before spreadsheets.

30 // February 2020

I graduated to spreadsheets and used them until budgeting applications arrived.

Budgeting applications are available for your desktop and mobile devices. If you like the high-tech approach, these are great, as they can link to your bank and bring

in transactions automatically. You just assign them to the correct budget category.

The other advantage of budgeting applications is that if you are married, it can easily be shared with your spouse.

You both see the budget in real time and make budget decisions together.

Budget decisions, if you are married, need to be made as a team. One person may like the record-keeping aspect, while the other would run from it. In any case, you both need to be in the decision-making process.

Two of my favorite budgeting applications are EveryDollar, from the Dave Ramsey organization, and YNAB (You Need A Budget). Both can link to your bank. EveryDollar has a free version where you manually record transactions.

Personal Finance is very personal. Find what works for you.

About The Author

B

by Charles Howell

Charles Howell was trained under the Dave Ramsey Master Coach program. He has been a money nerd all his life. After retiring from a career in Information Technology in 2017, he is pursuing his dream career. Charles lives in Silver Creek, Georgia, and serves clients anywhere in the country.

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

Prayers Answered In A Barn

S

by Kyle Adcock

everal months ago, I was listening to a minister on

I found Matthew 6:33: “But seek ye FIRST…” Eureka, I

the radio, and he was talking about how his church

thought, this is it!

bought a barn and started a prayer meeting in it.

I went to the barn and decided to start from scratch

I thought that was cool because I have a barn behind my

with what I knew or thought I knew about God. My prayer

house, but that was as far as I thought about it. A few weeks

started with the 5 Ws in journalism: in case you don’t

later, my 93-year-old grandmother, who was declining in

know them, they are what, when, where, who, why, and

her health, spoke at the church on Mother’s Day. She didn’t

sometimes how. Now, questions that start with one of these words are called open-ended questions, meaning you can’t just answer them with a yes or no; you have to have an explanation. So I started questioning God with my prayer: not that I didn’t know these answers, but I wanted God to teach me who He was because one of the definitions of “seek” is to discover, and I wanted to discover God in a way in which only He could reveal Himself to me.

For two days, I questioned God: who do I seek, why do I seek, etc. On the second day, after leaving my now-prayer barn, I was taking a shower and thinking about how great God is and how wonderful it is to feel His peace and joy after praying, even though all I was doing was questioning him. Then (don’t you just love those THEN moments?), I heard the voice of the Lord speak, and I know this might not move anyone because we have heard this Scripture all of our lives, but believe me when I tell

really talk about anything specific: just her testimony and

you, it takes on a whole other meaning when you hear God

how God has provided in her life. At one point, she started

say it. In a still, small voice, I got my answer to, “Who do I

talking about how when she was a young girl—probably

seek?” The answer was, I AM WHO I AM!

about 12—she started seeking the Holy Ghost. She started

Yes, in the shower, I started shouting and rejoicing, but

going to an old barn by herself and praying until she got the

I caught myself because a great reporter keeps questioning,

Holy Ghost. That was the moment when I put two and two

so I asked God, you say I am who I am, but what is the I

together and said to myself, “Okay, God, I hear you.”

am? I am who? And, without missing a beat, He came back

I was bound and determined to start praying in my

with an answer: I AM Jehovah Jireh. I AM EL SHADDAI.

barn in the hayloft, but I wanted to start it off the right way,

Needless to say, I didn’t let Him finish; I was bowled over

if there was such a thing. I started searching the Scriptures

weeping. God is good!

a Christian in my prayer life. After googling Scriptures,

32 // February 2020

About The Author

for what the first thing was that I was supposed to do as Kyle Adcock is a husband and father of four, with two of them being twins, three girls and one boy.

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Gò0dNews for Husbands

Love Is A Verb, Men.

Y

by Bill Fortenberry

ou’ve heard it all your life: Love is a verb. You can

5. Do you pray with her, for her, and over her, and do

say you love someone all day long, but until you

you read the Word of God to her? “That he might sanctify

show it, your words are meaningless.

her, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the

Since February is the love month, you should definitely

word, so that he might present the church to himself in

tell her, but this is also a good time to ask yourself, “Am I

splendor, without spot or wrinkle or any such thing, that

showing her that I love her?”

she might be holy and without blemish” (Ephesians 5:26-27).

Here are 10 questions to help you assess how well you’re doing: 1. Do you seek to understand and honor her?

“Likewise, husbands, live with your wives in an

6. Do you nourish and treasure her? “In the same way husbands should love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself. For no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it just as Christ does the church” (Ephesians 5:28-29).

7. Do you count her as more significant than yourself? “Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves” (Philippians 2:3).

8. Do you keep from being harsh with her? “Husbands, love your wives, and do not be harsh with them” (Colossians 3:19).

9. Do you treat her the way you want her to treat you? “So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets” (Matthew 7:12).

10. Are you faithful to her? “Let

understanding way, showing honor to the woman as the

marriage be held in honor among all, and let the marriage

weaker vessel, since they are heirs with you of the grace of

bed be undefiled, for God will judge the sexually immoral

life, so that your prayers may not be hindered” (1 Peter 3:7).

and adulterous” (Hebrews 13:4).

2. Do you trust her? “An excellent wife who can find?

In many quizzes, you’d earn a point for each “Yes”

She is far more precious than jewels. The heart of her

answer. That’s not how it works in God’s economy. If you

husband trusts in her, and he will have no lack of gain”

answered “No” to even one, you’ve failed, but that’s why

(Proverbs 31:10-11).

we need Jesus. The good news is that God’s mercies are

3. Do you work as a team with her? “Nevertheless, in the Lord woman is not independent of man nor man of

new every morning (Lamentations 3:22). Gentlemen, love your wives.

woman” (1 Corinthians 11:11).

“Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her” (Ephesians 5:26).

34 // February 2020

About The Author

4. Do you love her as much as God loves you?

Bill Fortenberry worked 17 years as a newspaper reporter, editor and columnist, and has worked in healthcare communications since 2001. Bill serves as the chairman of the board of managers of Haven Health Clinic for Women and is a men’s ministry leader and small group facilitator at his church, HBC Rome. He and his wife, Lisa, have two children, Ethan and Autumn. A storyteller at heart, Bill writes an occasional blog at kudzudad.blogspot.com.

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

Freedom In Christ ohn 8:31-36: “So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed him, ‘If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.’ They answered him, ‘We are offspring of Abraham and have never been enslaved to anyone. How is it that you say, “You will become free”?’ Jesus answered them, ‘Truly, truly, I say to you, everyone who practices sin is a slave to sin. The slave does not remain in the house forever; the son remains forever. So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.’”

God tells us to test ourselves. His Word tells us we are free. God is all-powerful, and in Christ, we are set free. There is no power or sin that can hold us down. We must renew our minds to understand our freedom and practice His Word to walk in our freedom. God has given us everything we need for life and godliness.

Matthew 28:18-20: “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: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen.”

Luke 10:19: “Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you.”

He also separates men: believers are those who obey His Word and unbelievers are those who do not obey His Word.

In the end, when we stand before our holy, living God, He says He will cast away all those who practice iniquity and all those who continue in sin. Why? Because He died to set them free and they chose to remain in bondage. They preferred darkness rather than light. We will have no excuse.

If: • We have died with Christ, • Become a new creature, and • Been set free from the power of sin and death, then our lives should reflect that.

36 // February 2020

In Christ, we have the power to walk in freedom. God continues to allow man free will to choose this day whom we will serve.

What is His promise?

If you submit to God and resist the devil (even unto blood—keep resisting and press through the temptation, even if it’s painful), he will flee! We are also to obey God’s command in 2 Corinthians 10:5: “Casting down

imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ.”

If you are struggling in any area, study Romans 6 to understand your freedom, and Romans 8 will show you how to walk in that freedom. Contact a trusted Christian minister or friend for support. There is hope!

We already have victory in Christ. He expects us to walk in that victory. We can fear God, shun evil, and keep His commandments every day for God’s glory.

Romans 6:22: “But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life.”

About The Author

J

by Lisa Hamilton

Lisa Hamilton is the author of His Legacy of Love. She lives with her husband and five children in the San Francisco Bay Area. Her passion is sharing the love of Christ. She encourages others to live in obedience to Him to experience the abundant life. Lisa shares devotions, testimonies, and encouragement on her Facebook page (Happyinsing).

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

#CoupleGoals

W

by Bridget Gray

e all know a couple who just seems to be “that

slowly turned his eyes to meet mine. He gave the slightest

couple,” right? The couple who is always

hint of a little grin and slowly said, “I thought she was

together and who just seems to have it figured

crazy!” Even in that moment, in the throes of the pain of

out. You see them and think, “Oh, I want that for us.” Can

cancer, Pop was still flirting with his girl. Nana got a big

you picture them? Do you know that couple? Yeah, me

laugh out of it and giggled just like that 18-year-old version

too. For me, that couple was my grandparents: my Pop

of herself probably did all those years ago. (And let’s also

and Nana, also known as “that

be honest, Nana owned it. She

sweet little old couple” or, as

didn’t deny it!)

some of you may have known

I asked Pop, “Well, how

them, Gene and Glenda Norris,

did that work out for you?

the sweet little couple from

Did you get more than you

Beard Drive.

bargained for?” Again, he

Less than a week before

didn’t move his face, but

their passing in 2018, I asked

he moved his eyes—such a

them about the start of their life

loving gaze—back to meet

together. Nana told me about

hers. She had her eyes glued

how she and Pop were set up

on him, awaiting his answer.

on a blind date. They were in

They locked eyes, and he

their 64th year of marriage, yet I

softly and simply said, “No.”

saw her little eyes twinkle, and

His answer was almost like

she giggled like a schoolgirl

he couldn’t believe anyone

as she recalled the early days

would ever have guessed

of their courtship. She would

differently. I said, “You

look over at Pop while she

needed a little bit of her

talked, and I would swear that

craziness in your life, huh?”

she smiled at him that day just

His answer was a simple,

as brightly as she did that day

“Yeah,” and his gaze never

back in 1953 when they met. #CoupleGoals I watched Pop’s face as she recalled so many vivid

left hers. #CoupleGoals Six months after that blind date, Pop and Nana eloped.

details of that time. His face was soft but expressionless,

Within a week of this conversation, they were both gone—

mostly. Cancer was taking its claim on him slowly.

together. You know that couple Noah and Allie from

However, he hung on every word she was saying. He may

“The Notebook?” Yeah, they’ve got nothing on Gene and

not have been saying much, but his eyes never left her

Glenda, my Pop and Nana. #CoupleGoals

as she spoke, and I could tell he was listening intently. would be my last chance. “Pop, what did you think of Nana when you first met her?” He didn’t move his face but

38 // February 2020

About The Author

I watched him, and I couldn’t help but ask; I knew this Bridget Gray is a native Roman & received her BA in English from the University of West Georgia in 2002. A self-professed “book nerd”, Bridget enjoys roaming through Barnes & Noble in her rare free time. Bridget & her family (husband Jarrett & daughters Carter & Avery) attend LIFE Church.

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

When the Busy Season Ends he new year has come and gone. All of the presents have been opened, the lights are put back in the attic, the fireworks went off on New Year’s Eve, and now come those few months where we feel stuck in a rut.

During the holiday season, women are busy decorating, going to social events, and buying gifts for everyone. While it can be exhausting, it’s also nice to feel important and be occupied. Personally, I love to have a schedule. I love having a calendar with all of my days filled with something—maybe that’s because I love to feel needed?

God tells us in Isaiah 43:4, “I traded their lives for yours because you are precious to me.”

Again, in Jeremiah 29:11, He says, “I know the plans I have for you.”

The God who is the creator of our

40 // February 2020

universe cares and deems each of us worthy.

Doesn’t that thought give you chills?

As the first few months of the new year come, our schedules become notso-jam-packed, and our weekend festivities aren’t as frequent, remember that you are enough.

With the extra time that you now have, maybe take the time to volunteer at church or at a local charity. It might even be beneficial to take the time to relax and study God’s word at a deeper level. When we actually take the time to sit, meditate, and pray to our Father, we will realize that we are meant for more than a busy schedule, outings with friends, and a need for worldly acceptance.

WE ARE ENOUGH. Our God longs for us to recognize the love He has for us and for us to have a longing to talk with Him. If the King of the universe sees our potential—so should we.

God’s validation is enough.

About The Author

T

by Jessica Mathis

My name is Jessica Mathis and I am from Rome, Georgia. I am a blessed Christian, wife, stay-at-home mama, and part-time women’s advocate. I am just trying to raise a tiny human, one day at a time.

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Gò0dNews for your Taste Buds

My Father’s Made-From-Scratch Biscuits

T

by Rhonda Lane

he name of this recipe is actually a misnomer. To my knowledge, my father never made biscuits from scratch, although he could make a great pecan pie from his mother’s recipe. This is my mother’s recipe, which she would rise as early as 4:30 a.m. to bake for my father’s breakfast before sending him off to work. She also could not be convinced to bake biscuits and cornbread on Christmas Eve in order to save time on Christmas Day. No day-old biscuits for her cornbread dressing!

Many cooks roll the dough out and then cut out the perfectly round delicacies. This method leaves oddly shaped scraps of dough, which are sometimes re-rolled to make additional biscuits. Everyone knows that these “second-rate” biscuits are never as good as the first batch.

For much of my life, I felt like a second-rate biscuit. I felt as if God had some leftover DNA after creating the beautiful people, the good people, the accepted people: people I would never be, so He made me instead of wasting that DNA. Not having time to waste on complicated recipes or methods, my mother usually employed a rather unusual method. Instead of rolling the dough, she would simply break off a piece a little smaller than a baseball and roll it between her work-worn hands. When sufficiently rounded, it would be flattened into a disc with her fingertips, leaving their impression, as well as her fingerprints, all over it.

It was then lined up like a good soldier in the pan and placed in a hot oven to fulfill its destiny. As the biscuits are pulled from the oven in all their golden-baked glory, so we will be pulled from the fires of life into the glory of Heaven.

My mother liked simple recipes: the fewer the ingredients, the better. Using self-rising flour, this recipe has only three ingredients, just as our salvation and hope have only three ingredients: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.

We are like fresh biscuits in God’s hands. We are created individually with God’s fingerprints all over us: fresh every morning, just like God’s mercies.

42 // February 2020

Ingredients • 2 cups Self-Rising Flour

• 3 Heaping Tablespoons Of Lard (May Use Shortening) • ¾ Cup Milk

P

Instructions

reheat oven to 400°. Grease a 10-inch castiron skillet (or any cake pan). Put flour into a 1.5-quart mixing bowl. Add lard and cut into small pieces with a fork or pastry cutter until well mixed. Add milk gradually until it forms a dough ball (more or less milk may be necessary).

Flour hands and pinch off a piece of dough slightly smaller than a baseball. Roll between hands until it forms a ball and the surface is smooth. Flatten into a disc about an inch thick and place in pan. Continue until all dough is used.

Bake at 400° for 20 minutes. If not browned properly, turn on broiler to brown the biscuits and watch carefully!

Makes five crusty biscuits about 3 inches in diameter.

Rome, Georgia

Daddy-Daughter Date Night February 29, 2020