February 2021

Gò0dNews February 2021

Complimentary

Christian Magazine

®

ROME

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About Us WRITERS

Dr. Alan Hix Alison Nichols Andrew Lee Beth Penny Brent Goodge David Thompson Deana Thompson Dorothy Teague Janise Copeman Jessica Mathis Kaye Stein Linda Ray Center Lori Sentell Megan VanMeter Mitzi Limburg Wayne E. Norton Zebbie Brewster

SALES

David Kirk 770-546-0150

DESIGN

Caleb Prytherch

PHOTOGRAPHER Melanie Abney 706-844-3818

Hello Friends, We want to take a moment to tell you who we are and what we are about. Our names are Matt and Bethany Ruckman and we have six beautiful children, Brendon, Kailey, Andrew, Leah Jean, Emma, and Cooper. We live in Cleveland, Tennessee, and love what this town has to offer! We have started GoodNews Christian Magazine because we feel that when God, family, and community are combined,

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lives will be changed.

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Christian lifestyle publication. You can find us

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EDITOR

David Thompson

PUBLISHER

Matthew and Bethany Ruckman Cell: 423-503-1410 E-mail: goodnewstn@gmail.com

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

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

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

Disclaimer All of the content in the GoodNews Christian Magazine is for general information and/or use.

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

Contents FEBRUARY 2021

GoodNews from the Pastor’s Desk

6 What Are We Praying For?

by Brent Goodge

GoodNews for Kids

8 Let Us Love One Another

by Lori Sentell

GoodNews on Money Matters

10 Watch What They Do

by Andrew Lee

GoodNews for Men

12 What Does It Mean to Love?

by Dr. Alan Hix

GoodNews for Women

14 A Valentine’s Letter

by Linda Ray Center

GoodNews for Health & Fitness

18 Individualized Progressive Success Fitness Program

by Wayne E. Norton GoodNews for Everyone

20 Do We Measure Up?

by Megan VanMeter

GoodNews Cover Story

22 Spartan Smoothies Of Rome

by David Thompson

GoodNews for Everyone

24 A Purposeful Life

by Beth Penny

GoodNews for Marriage

26 Remember

by Mitzi Limburg

GoodNews for Everyone

28 Content In The Lord

by Zebbie Brewster

GoodNews for Everyone

30 The Importance of Worldly Gains

by Jessica Mathis GoodNews for Everyone

32 It’s About Time

6

by Kaye Stein

GoodNews for Everyone

34 Your Prayers Don’t Need Editing

by David Thompson GoodNews for Everyone

36 Do You Remember Your First Love?

by Janise Copeman GoodNews for Everyone

38 Goodbye, Fear

22

by Alison Nichols

GoodNews for Everyone

40 The Perfect Love Story

by Dorothy Teague

GoodNews for your Taste Buds

42 Curried Parsley Chicken

by Deana Thompson

38

Gò0dNews from the Pastor’s Desk

What Are We Praying For?

T

by Brent Goodge

he world is changing so fast, there is little doubt

Yet Peter preached in the Name of Jesus that He

that the events inspiring this article will be obsolete

was indeed the Messiah, laying the blood of Jesus on

by publishing date. Just days ago, the United States

the hands of the priests and rulers. Further, while the

Capitol building was stormed by protestors. The President

leaders pretended to be the arbiters of salvation through

of the United States has been banned from various means

the temple services, Peter boldly declared, “Nor is there

of communication. Confidence in leadership seems to be at

salvation in any other, for there is no other Name under

an all-time low.

heaven given among men by which we must be saved”

Freedom is under attack. Religious freedom, the foundational principle that above all others paved the way for the greatness of this nation, is tenuous at best. Judges

(Acts 4:12).

This the temple leaders could not tolerate. The preaching of the apostles must be silenced. In terrible anger, they demanded that the apostles never again preach about or do anything in the Name of Jesus Christ again. Filled with the Holy Spirit, Peter replied, “Whether it is right in the sight of God to listen to you more than to God, you judge. For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard” (Acts 4:19-20).

After further threats, the two apostles were released. They joined the rest of the apostles and held a prayer service. If I were there, I would have likely been pleading with God for safety. But what did the apostles pray for instead of Divine protection? The apostles prayed for more boldness to stand for God no matter what happened (Acts 4:29-30). Their only aim was to be faithful to the

have ordered businesses to provide services against the

One who had died for them. Their only desire was to see

conscience of the provider. But looking back through

more lost souls saved through the power of His blood.

salvation history, freedom of conscience is the historical anomaly rather than the rule.

Peter and John healed a crippled man outside the

As we see the world falling apart around us, as we see the principles of freedom crumble before our eyes, what are we praying for? There is nothing wrong with praying

temple through the power of the Name of Jesus Christ. The

for Divine protection. But are we praying with a burden for

rulers were stunned that Jesus’ power continued through

lost souls? Do we plead with God for boldness to share the

His disciples. The rulers knew Jesus had been raised from

Gospel regardless of the consequences? If not, maybe we

the dead, but any such admission on their part would end

are praying for the wrong thing.

to pretend that Jesus was dead in order to save themselves from political ruin.

6 // February 2021

About The Author

all their political influence. Thus, the rulers were content Brent Goodge lives in Whitfield County and prays that he will always be faithful when Jesus says, “Go.”

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Gò0dNews for Kids

Let Us Love One Another

W

by Lori Sentell

hen we think about February, we think

same way. We should not compromise for anything

of the month of love. It reminds us to tell

less than this type of love. The world around us does

others that we love them. We may show

not see that it is necessary to be kind and loving to

them with cards, candy, or flowers. We may exhibit

those around us. We need to be the example and show

affection to those we care about. We need to show love

true love.

to others not just once in a while or when it might be expected.

Showing love is a daily thing: not once a week, monthly, or yearly. We have to show others that we love and care for them. It may be a kind word, a smile, or a gesture of kindness that lets others know that they are important. It might be giving your time to help others when they are in need or just by being there for them. As a Christian, we have to show the love of Christ to others. Our family, friends, co-workers, and acquaintances are the ones who really deserve and need our love. In 1 John 3:1, The Bible tells us, “Behold what manner of love the Father has bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God; therefore the world does not know us, because it didn’t know Him.” Sometimes, it might be difficult to do when a

We are commanded to love one another. John 15:13

person doesn’t know how to receive love because they

says, “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man

have never experienced it personally. In our daily

lay down his life for his friend.” This type of love is

walk, it may be hard to convince them that you love

selfless and is referred to as agape love, which is a

them and care for them…just because. They might

spiritual kind of love. This “greater” love is the most

think we have an ulterior motive. The world’s view of

powerful thing on this Earth. Let us love one another

love and kindness is distorted compared to the love of

because He first loved us.

death on the cross for us (1 John 3:16). He accepted this sacrifice for our sins, so we are called to love others the

8 // February 2021

About The Author

Christ. Jesus Christ showed what perfect love is by His Lori Sentell is the pastor’s wife of Cornerstone Church of God in Cleveland, Tennessee, and she is a teacher at Hopewell Elementary School.

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Watch What They Do 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 years ago, when I was teaching a Financial

on “making memories,” like traveling abroad or taking my

Peace University class at church, I opened the first

sons to NFL or college football games with good seats up

meeting with this simple request: “Everyone please

front which are absurdly expensive. One of my “bucket list”

take out your checkbook and pass it up here so I can briefly

items is to take our family to watch all four of the Grand

review how you’ve been spending your money.” This was long

Slam tennis championships around the world. Another is

ago when people used to write paper checks, though today I

to take my sons to watch a football game in each of the SEC

might ask them to pass me their smartphones so I can review

stadiums across the southeast. Right or wrong, making these

their banking app of recent transactions. Either way, the result

memories points to what I value. I also want to have money to

would still be the same—stunned silence and uncomfortable

donate to causes that are important to me, such as endowed

squirming from everyone in the class, and not one single

scholarships at my alma maters, as well as leave a financial

checkbook or smart phone handed over to me for inspection.

legacy after I’m gone from this life.

The reason is simple—money is personal, even intimate. How

Maybe take a few minutes and look over your checkbook

and where we spend our money speaks volumes about who

register or smartphone banking app of your transactions over

we are and what we value—not what we “claim” to value, but

the past month. Does what you see match your values? If

what we actually value enough to put our money where our

not, perhaps some introspection is in order. Perhaps you’ve

mouth is.

allowed your peer group or even total strangers (ahem, social

Here’s a mantra that’s been going around recently on

media) to influence how you spend your money, even if these

some financial podcasts: “Don’t listen to what they say; watch

choices do not reflect who you are and what matters most

what they do.” If you really want to know what someone

to you. If this is the case, notice where you want to make

values, watch (or investigate) where and how they spend their

changes. Then, write it down and commit to it. Committing

money. Many times, what people tell others regarding money

means taking action. So, if investing money to grow wealth

does not always line up with what they actually “do” with

is one of your values and goals, you should open an

their own money. Allow me to be a bit transparent. I don’t

investment account online within the next few weeks and set

like spending money on clothes. I still wear clothes I’ve had

up auto drafts from your checking account to invest money

for years (often to my wife’s irritation). I don’t like spending

automatically. I believe the link between money and personal

money on new or expensive cars since they plummet in value

values is made clear when Jesus tells us in Matthew 6:21, “For

so quickly (my Ford F-150 truck is twelve years old). I don’t

where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” For this

like spending money on jewelry (I don’t own any except my

reason, the Bible speaks of money or wealth hundreds and

gold wedding ring). But I do like spending money

hundreds of times. So don’t just listen to what people say

10 // February 2021

regarding money; watch what they do.

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Gò0dNews for Men

What Does It Mean to Love?

W

by Dr. Alan Hix

ell, February has now arrived so get ready for

flipped it to mean “love is god” instead? Much of society’s

some candy! As we focus on Valentine’s day,

view of love seems to reflect this perspective.

people will be talking about love in many

different ways.

I thought about some approaches we have seen to love

When we think about what true love looks like, what does Scripture mean when it declares “God is love?” In Romans 5:8, the Apostle Paul states “But God demonstrates

in film over the years. The 1970 film “Love Story” ended

his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners,

with the declaration that “love means never having to say

Christ died for us” (NIV). Jesus would state in John 10:11,

you’re sorry.” In the musical “Fiddler on the Roof,” in a

“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep” (NIV). God’s love for us is described in terms of self-sacrifice. When Paul addresses human relationships, he uses that same sacrificial language: “Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her” Ephesians 5:25 (NIV).

Jesus speaks of love on the night before his crucifixion declaring, “If you love me, keep my commands” John 14:15 (NIV).

Jesus helps his disciples see that their love for him is not solely demonstrated by a depth of emotion, but more significantly by a commitment to obedience. What we can glean from this brief survey is that true love is defined by sacrifice and commitment. In

song entitled “Do You Love Me?,” love is described in

other words, love is a choice we make, not a feeling we

terms of what a couple does for one another. In a different

discover. More than ever, our troubled world needs to see

approach, in “Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back,” when

the children of God choose to love. The focus of our love is

Princess Leia declares her love for Han Solo, his response

not just to be directed to those close to us, but even to those

is a warm-fuzzy “I know.” On the opposite end of the

who are different from us in many ways and approach life

spectrum, a main theme in “The Princess Bride” is that true

from a different worldview. Jesus urges his disciples in that

love conquers all—even death. Elsewhere in media, love

same discourse, “By this everyone will know that you are

travels other roads—some of them noble, and some of them

my disciples, if you love one another” John 13:35 (NIV). So,

very dark.

this Valentines Day, choose to love!

This Valentine’s Day, when you give your significant often in our relationships do we find ourselves saying: “If you loved me, you would do ______.” How often have we taken the declaration in 1 John 4:8 that “God is love,” and

12 // February 2021

About The Author

other a card and say “I love you,” what do you mean? How

Dr. Alan Hix is an Associate Professor of Christian Studies at Shorter University. In addition to being and educator, he has served churches as a pastor, been involved in mission trips to Africa, Canada, and Alaska, and participated in archaeological excavations in Israel for several years.

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Gò0dNews for Women

A Valentine’s Letter

“T

by Linda Ray Center

herefore we do not lose heart. Though

Later, a friend sent me a condolence card. In the card

outwardly we are wasting away, yet

was an outline for a “Letter to Heaven.” I used it to write a

inwardly we are being renewed day by day”

letter to my mother and another to my deceased husband.

(2 Corinthians 4:16).

Every morning, my mother, Claire Ray, faithfully

As I filled in the blanks, it put a smile on my face.

Since Valentine’s Day is in February, I share this

drew close to the Lord. She often sat in her favorite

outline for those who may wish to send a “Letter to

wingback chair before breakfast to prepare her heart for

Heaven” to a special someone who resides in a place

prayer. Her routine began with one of her devotional

where everything lasts forever and joy never ends.

books, then finished with a chapter or two from her Bible.

Claire went through several Bibles in her 94 years. She always penned the date on the last page after she finished reading through her Bible. Her total was 48 times.

Today’s Date________________ MY VALENTINE “LETTER TO HEAVEN” (Put a name here) ___________________ You were so special to me/us because: I miss your: Remember when we: I wish I had told you: I celebrate the memory of you in your absence by:

Heaven is a place where love fills every heart.

Scriptures tell us to fix our eyes not on what is seen but Mother loved and trusted Jesus more than anything.

on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but

On her hospital bed last November before she took her last

what is unseen is eternal. As I think of the wonders of

couple of breaths, my sister overheard her whisper, “Jesus,

heaven and God’s endless love, a letter from Him today

what is taking you so long? I’m so ready for you to come

would read something like this:

and get me.” Her words told me Mother anticipated going to a place where everything that is best remains.

What a tremendous relief to know she looked

On earth, my dear child, as it is in heaven, you can love because I first loved you.

—Your loving Father, God

Savior. His divine love surrounded her as she prepared for her heavenly departure.

14 // February 2021

About The Author

forward to embracing the loving arms of her Lord and Linda Ray Center writes about everyday life with God, others, and self, as an author, freelance writer, and blogger at www.lindaraycenter.com. She resides in charming Chattanooga and will showcase her grandchildren’s pictures at any given moment.

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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 404-307-7396 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 706-291-7790

16 // February 2021

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 706-291-6850 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 Shannon First Baptist Church 400 Fourth Street, PO Box 997, Shannon, GA 30172 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

Latter-day Saints

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 3300 Garden Lakes Pkwy Rome, Ga 30165 706-235-2281

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 36 Reeceburg Rd SE Silver Creek, GA 30173 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 Ministries 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 Seven Hills Fellowship 530 Broad Street Rome, GA 30161 706-530-1630 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 Jackson Chapel UMC 301 Jackson Chapel Rd Cave Spring, GA 30125 706-777-3750

goodnewscm.com // 17

Gò0dNews for Health & Fitness

Individualized Progressive Success Fitness Program

T

by Wayne E. Norton

he holiday season is almost over, but the reality is that the

the initial workouts will feel easy for you. Remember, the objective is

effects can and usually will remain and often shape bodies

to establish fitness, then build and improve on that fitness. Running,

and affect our futures. From the candies of October 31st to

walking, bending, and moving are the components of this basic

the chocolates of February 14th and the three big ones between in November, December, and January, holiday traditions can present challenges. As is the case with most successful ventures, developing,

conditioning plan.

Drinking water is an important part of this plan and should include following the generally accepted advice to drink before, during, and following exercise sessions. Of course, when one increases water intake, one should plan on increased water output. It is suggested that you urinate after each water intake if facilities are accessible. Water in and then water out keeps the system working properly. Gentle muscle stretching should be a part of the daily preparation before each session. After getting your doctor’s clearance to begin the program, it’s important to e-a-s-e into your training. Starting slowly and progressing is the key to staying on track, enjoying success, and avoiding setbacks.

Four-Month Conditioning Program Before each day’s activity, pray for the favor

implementing, and maintaining a plan is important. Here are some thoughts and ideas and a plan to improve fitness.

Most people have heard that exercise is good for you.

Unfortunately, many people do not follow through with all of the good advice that they have heard. Before presenting some of the various general benefits of exercise and a fitness plan, here are some words of wisdom. According to the American Heart Association, “Being physically active is important to prevent heart disease and stroke,” which are two of America’s biggest threats to long, healthy lives. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention lists the same benefit and adds, “For people with chronic diseases, physical activity can help manage these conditions and complications.”

Say no to an increased risk of heart attacks, strokes, and diseases, and say yes to physical fitness.

Before athletes of all ages and levels begin their training and exercising seasons, it is usually a requirement that they undergo a preseason medical examination, also known as a “physical.” You are the athlete, and you should get medical clearance to start your fitness

and protection of God and for success in improving your health and fitness. Make a verbal declaration outlining the conditioning objectives that you will achieve with this plan and with God’s anointing.

First, get medical screening/approval. Gently stretch and loosen up leg muscles before each session.

Daily drink 2 glasses of water first thing in the morning.

Daily drink 1 large glass of water 1 hour before workout.

Daily drink 1 large glass of water 10 minutes before workout.

Daily drink 1 large glass of water at end of workout.

Daily drink no sweetened drinks throughout the day/night.

Duration: daily/weekly.

1: walk 15 minutes daily: 2 weeks; do 10 knee bends before bed.

2: walk 15 minutes briskly daily: 2 weeks; do 10 knee bends before bed.

3: walk/jog 20 minutes easy daily: 2 weeks; do 15 knee bends before bed.

4: walk/jog 20 minutes briskly daily: 2 weeks; do 20 knee bends before bed.

5: jog 20 minutes daily: 3 weeks; do 25 knee bends before bed.

6: jog/run 20-35 minutes daily: 5 weeks; do 30 knee bends before bed. *Only progress to the next level if you can handle the current level.*

training program. Inform your personal doctor that you will be starting consent to proceed.

Beginning with a good plan and then adding volume and intensity will result in more strength, health, and fitness. Hopefully,

18 // February 2021

About The Author

a fitness program and that you need a screening and the doctor’s

Wayne Norton is a former collegiate track and field coach with his last 25 years at The University of Georgia 1990-2015. He is also an ordained elder assisting his pastor at his home church in Athens, GA. Him and his wife, Priscilla reside and serve the people of God in Athens, GA, where they have been since 1990.

LIST YOUR CHURCH ACTIVITIES & EVENTS Such As:

• SPECIAL EVENTS • CONCERTS • CONFERENCES • ACTIVITIES • & MORE! Send Your Events To: articles.goodnews@gmail.com

Gò0dNews for Everyone

Do We Measure Up?

H

by Megan VanMeter

ow many of us look at our friends, co-workers,

how many appointments we can schedule in one day, and

and other family members and wonder how we

if dinner was on time every night. We will be remembered

measure up to them? We see others who seem to

for the memories we made, the laughter we shared, and the

have their lives together, keeping appointments on time, keeping up with soccer schedules and dance rehearsals,

endless nighttime stories we read to our children.

Proverbs 31:10-14 beautifully describes the character of

and the list goes on. We wonder how they can have so

a noble woman. Nowhere in the description does it mention

many things together when we cannot seem to have dinner

keeping appointments, dinner being on time, or racing to

on the table on time. We are constantly trying to measure

various practices. The Scripture talks about the value of a

up to someone else’s standards.

woman: her worth is more precious than rubies, the love she shows to her husband builds confidence, and he lacks for nothing. These are the things memories are made of.

In addition, according to Titus 2:4-5, women are called to teach the younger women to love their husbands and children and be busy at home. We are also to be self-controlled and pure. Women are called to be kind to others, being an example to the younger women. These are the things memories are made of. These are the things women were created and built to do. As you make your plans for the new year, be intentional about time with the family and friends, and be intentional about making memories you and your family

As I was talking with a friend about the subject, I

will remember for a lifetime. Most of all, be intentional to

realized that I am missing out on all the wonderful blessings

take time to sit at the Father’s feet, listening to His direction

I have when I’m keeping that busy schedule. I am not

and being in prayer for all things. We are taught in 1

spending time with my family, playing with my grandson,

Thessalonians 5:17-18 to pray continually and give thanks in

reading a book, watching my favorite movie, and spending

all circumstances.

time in the Word. It is okay to be you. It is time to stop

Next time you think you are not measuring up to

measuring yourself by what others do or say and measure

someone else, remember God’s Word and trust that you are

your blessings.

exactly how He wants you to be. Make memories, rejoice in

God built us all differently and just the way He wanted

all of God’s creation, and cherish your family.

the gifting He blessed us with. At the end of our years, we will not be remembered for how well we cleaned the house,

20 // February 2021

About The Author

us to be. He gave us all gifts and wants us to work within Megan VanMeter is on staff at West Rome Church. She finds joy in helping others. She is a grandmother of two and loves making memories for her family.

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Spartan Smoothies Of Rome

Y

by David Thompson

ou shouldn’t have to sacrifice extra time and money

Keith’s dedication to health and experience in nutrition

to get a healthy meal. If it only takes five minutes to

has served him well as the new owner, and during the

grab a calorie-filled burger and fries from a drive-

throes of COVID-19, he leaned on that experience to help

thru, why isn’t it just as convenient to eat healthy? Well, it is

Spartan Smoothies grow. “A few months after I took over,

now. Eating nutritious and delicious food is easier than ever,

lockdowns hit,” Keith said. “Through the pandemic, word

thanks to Spartan Smoothies!

has been getting out about all the cool changes we’ve made.

Ever since Keith Ozment took over ownership of Spartan

If I had taken over and just stayed still, we’d probably

Smoothies in October of 2019, the business has been making

be out of business, but because we hunkered down and

a name for itself in Rome as the go-to place for a convenient,

pushed forward, we’ve done well.” Those cool changes

healthy, responsible meal. Keith’s background is in fitness

included a complete remodeling of the inside of the business

and nutrition, and being able to do something he’s passionate

by Keith’s business partner and father, Ken Ozment, a

about while serving the community was a perfect fit.

wider and healthier variety of smoothie options, and the

“I lost 70 lb. at the age of 18 and have kept it off. I’ve

availability of online ordering. That’s right: you can go to

been dedicated to fitness and nutrition since then, I’ve

spartansmoothiesrome.com, view their whole menu, and then

helped many people with their lifestyle changes and helped

order and pay online or over the phone to skip the in-store

them reach their goals, and I carried that over into the

wait! It’s just another way to make eating healthy easier.

smoothie store,” said Keith. “Whether it’s a super clean,

When you think “eating healthy,” the first things that

healthy smoothie—plant-based, organic, or vegan—or if

come to mind are probably salads and tasteless low-carb

you’re wanting a dessert or a treat on a Friday night, we

diet plans. But a smoothie is a much better option! It’s

have that too and everything in the middle.”

because they’re very convenient and you can pack in a lot

22 // February 2021

more nutrients than you normally would with a regular

collaborating with Ideal Meals, a local meal prep company,

meal. As Keith put it, “You’d have to eat a pretty large meal

to give you even more options for your breakfast, lunch,

to get the same nutrients as you would in a smoothie.” At

or dinner. From loaded potatoes to chicken breasts, you’ll

Spartan Smoothies, you see exactly what goes into what you

have dozens of options to choose from, all freshly made and

eat: calories, carbs, protein, ingredients, everything. They

ready to eat!

even slice 30 lb. of fresh fruit every single day to ensure that

Eating healthy can be tough. But it doesn’t have to be.

your smoothie is the freshest meal you’ve ever tasted. “My

At Spartan Smoothies, you’re one sip away from the fitness

most famous saying is, ‘You can’t out-train a bad diet,’” said

breakthrough you’ve been searching for. In the mood for

Keith. “[Living healthy] is 90% diet. I would rather someone

something light and sweet? Pick up a “Pink Paradise,”

focus on their diet and sleep than on working out. We’re all

bursting with freshly chopped pineapples and strawberries.

busy, and not everyone might have the time to work out

Want a meal replacement smoothie? Try “The Hampton,”

four or five or six days a week, but they can control what

filled with yogurt, peanut butter, and vanilla protein. Need

they put in their mouth.”

something small now and a larger meal later on? Grab a

Spartan Smoothies encourages a healthier lifestyle

couple of Spartan Protein Bars and pick up an Ideal Meals

in multiple ways. They offer discounts to all local gym

dinner to go! Spartan Smoothies is your one-stop location

members, as well as to all college students, medical

for whatever you need, and they’re now open at 6:30 a.m. So

staff, and emergency personnel, and on Saturdays in the

if you have to get to work by 7:00, skip the greasy drive-thru

summertime, they offer free workouts at the city-funded

and grab a clean, nourishing smoothie instead! Your body

workout station behind the building. Also, because the

will thank you.

building conveniently sits right next to the Ridge Ferry Park

Spartan Smoothies

trails, plenty of people will finish their morning or afternoon

is open Monday–Friday

jog off with a cold, refreshing smoothie. Spartan Smoothies

6:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.,

sells a nutrition guide that can walk you through how to

Saturday from 8 a.m. to

make those healthy lifestyle choices. They handmake their

8 p.m., and Sunday from

own protein bars, the Spartan Protein Bar: a simple, clean,

11 a.m. until 6 p.m. Visit

whole-food protein bar with only five ingredients. The best

spartansmoothiesrome.com

part is, they’re no-bake bars that don’t require refrigeration,

or call (706) 528-4183 to

so you can grab a few and put them in your computer

start your journey

bag, purse, backpack, or car as a tasty and nutritious

toward a healthier

substitute for a fast-food pit stop. They also recently began

future today!

goodnewscm.com // 23

Gò0dNews for Everyone

A Purposeful Life

E

by Beth Penny

veryone is talented and skilled in different ways. I also believe that all people have what I call secret ninja talents. These

are things that we know we do well and keep hidden from others. Why? Sometimes just out of humbleness. Because who likes a braggart, right? My ninja talent is, at times, a blessing and, at times, a curse. What is mine, you ask?

Time management and multitasking: working smarter, not harder. People ask me how I get so many things done: I multitask. How do I cook supper, grade papers, watch my favorite show, do the dishes, and do laundry all at the same time? Multitasking is my superpower. That is the blessing side. The curse is that my brain is like a computer screen with 12 tabs open, three of them are frozen, and I have no idea where the music is coming from.

What does that have to do with a purposeful life? Find your talents. No matter if they are supersecret ninja talents or just the important, everyday

Right now, more than ever, it is important for Christians to

talents like being kind to others, find your superpower,

be the “church” outside of the four walls. Sharing our talents

and more importantly, USE it. Someone once said, “The

with others is one way to do that. As Christians, one of our

meaning of life is to find your gift. The purpose of life is

gifts is most certainly being a light for others. The world is

to give it away.” That is the link to a purposeful life. I was

in symbolic darkness. We sometimes are the only light that

fortunate enough to be introduced to the works of Erma

shines in that darkness. Micah 7:8 says, “Do not gloat over

Bombeck, a Christian comedienne. One of her most famous

me, my enemy! Though I have fallen, I will rise. Though I

quotes was, “When I stand before God at the end of my life,

sit in darkness, the Lord will be my light.” We can take that

I would hope that I had not a single talent left and I could

light that is in us and share it with others through simple

say, ‘I used everything You gave me.’” Use the gifts that God

gifts that we already have within us. Matthew 5:16 says it all

has given you. Don’t hang them on a shelf to observe and

for us: “In the same way, let your light shine before others,

admire. They don’t do anyone any good that way.

that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father

Are we using the talents and gifts that God has given

in heaven.” Sometimes we are the only light that others see,

us? Have we even tapped into them? If we aren’t using our

and through that, they are able to see the goodness that God

talents, we are wasting them. I encourage you to find your

has to offer.

we find things we are good at in different stages of our lives.

24 // February 2021

About The Author

talents. God leads us in the direction that we need to go, and Beth Penny has taught English at Model High School since 1997. There she is also the Yearbook adviser and the Special Education Department Chair.

She and her husband, Chad, have four children.

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bepperson@smprate.com Cell: 770-548-4550 Cell: 770-548-4550 bruce.epperson@fcmhomeloans.com 504 Riverside Parkway, Suite 402 & 404 bepperson@smprate.com 504 Parkway, Suite 402 & 404 Rome,Riverside GA 30161 Rome, GA 30161 504 Riverside Parkway, Suite 404 Success Mortgage Partners, Inc supports Equal Housing Opportunity.

NMLS ID# 130562. This is informational only and is not402 an offer & of credit or commitment to lend. Interest This is informational only and is not an offer of credit or commitment to lend. Loan terms are subject to change without notice and may not be available rates, products, and loan terms are subject to change without notice and may not be available at the time of loan application or loan lock-in. Contact Success Mortgage at the time loan application.

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504 Riverside Parkway, Suite 402 & 404 Rome, GA 30161

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Gò0dNews for Marriage

Remember

J

by Mitzi Limburg

ust recently, my husband and I celebrated our 40th

faithfulness. According to one source I read, the word

anniversary by spending a weekend in the mountains,

“remember” is used around 1500 times in Scripture!

one of our favorite places. While driving around the

That beautiful fall weekend, we remembered all God

area where we honeymooned, we saw hotels, restaurants,

has done in our lives. Our story is really a story of His

stores that we have visited over the years, and even the

kindness, faithfulness, and love. He has protected us,

car wash where we washed the post-wedding paint off of

healed us, comforted us, taught us, and given us too many

our 1977 Toyota Corolla! Both of us had reminiscing on

blessings to count! The Lord has had to teach these two

our minds! I had made a playlist of songs for us, and my

stubborn people some hard lessons, too, but we have felt

husband had put together a video with photos from our life

incredibly loved through it all! Even as we reminisced about

together! It was fun and a bit emotional as we talked about

those difficult times, we can see where we are now and what God has allowed us to be part of together. He truly has a plan when He joins a man and woman in marriage.

Years ago, a marriage event speaker suggested reminding yourself of what attracted you to your spouse: was it her smile, his kindness, her laugh, his eyes? What did you enjoy doing together when you were dating?

Has that changed over the years?

Are there special events, activities, or places? I know you might not have 40 years of memories to walk through, but if you’re married, you have made memories! I encourage you to look back, even if some of the memories are painful, because you will see

all the places we have been together, from Nicaragua to

where God was working when you look closely! Relive that

Nashville, and all we have experienced: three children, six

wedding day, the births of your kids, your friendships, your

moves, four churches, career changes, losses of loved ones,

adventures! See your husband/wife through those eyes again,

and financial hardships.

and thank the Lord for the gift of your marriage!

So many times in the Bible, God’s chosen people

Here’s a quote I heard on a TV show: “Close your eyes

are encouraged to “Remember what the Lord has done,

and remember all the good.” I think that’s pretty good

remember His covenant, His commitment, His love, His

advice. Happy remembering!

the Lord to remember His promises to him! In the New Testament, believers are encouraged to remember God’s

26 // February 2021

About The Author

kindness, His miracles…” David in the Psalms also asks Mitzi Limburg has been married for 40 years and has three adult children, one daughter-in-law, one future daughter-in-law, and one dog! She works from home as a transcriptionist and she loves coffee, chocolate, fuzzy blankets, and good books, preferably all at the same time.

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

Content In The Lord

1

by Zebbie Brewster

Timothy 6:6-8: “But godliness with

in your life to be content? Our cat is content to find

contentment is great gain. For we brought

herself a warm place in the sun. I am thankful that

nothing into this world, and it is certain

when life can become overwhelming, I can find

we can carry nothing out. And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.”

As I was walking this morning, I remembered

contentment in trusting God with my life.

Hebrews 13:5: “Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such

something that happened to me when I was a child.

I had spent the night with my great-uncle and aunt who had a small farm not far from where I lived. They had a milk cow that they had to milk every day. They gave me the opportunity to try and milk her. I don’t remember a whole lot about the event other than that they showed me how it was supposed to be done. Then they let me try my hand at it. They made it look quite easy.

As I tried, it just was not working out for me. The cow must have sensed my nervousness and that I was a stranger to her. I have heard that contented cows give more milk. I seem to

things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake.”

1 Peter 5:7: “Casting all your care upon Him, for he careth for you.”

I’m praying that you can find that contentment

remember that they would feed her first before

today that can only be found in trusting the Good

they started milking her. Now, come to think of

Lord. I pray for God’s blessing for you always.

it, I have heard that playing music helps to make music that you play. So what does it mean to you

28 // February 2021

About The Author

a cow contented. I guess it depends on the type of Zebbie Brewster resides in Summerville, Georgia. She is an active member at Perennial Springs Baptist Church.

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

The Importance of Worldly Gains

D

by Jessica Mathis

ay after day, we think, “What can I

I was doing some praying and thinking, and it hit

accomplish?” Whether we want to stain our

me: “Who have you told about Jesus?” Truthfully, I

deck, enroll in college classes, or purchase a

was ashamed of my answer. We can have multiple

new home, every day, we look to improve our lives

college degrees, money in our savings account, and

in some form or fashion, brag about it on social media, and then move on to our next wish. We constantly long for something bigger and better.

We want our accomplishments to make us feel important. I, personally, have a few goals for my own life that would make me feel better as a person. Do these accomplishments and goals really matter to our

our dream home, but NONE OF THAT MATTERS if I

Heavenly Father?

leave this Earth without telling one person about Jesus.

I am in no way saying the Lord does not want us

As you continue through this new year, find

to work hard and prosper while we are on the earth.

small ways to incorporate the name of Jesus into your

In His Word, He tells us, “Whatever you do, work

conversations with others. Let one goal for 2021 be

heartily, as for the Lord and not for men” (Colossians

how many people we can share the name of Jesus with.

3:23). Instead, I am asking if we are so wrapped up in the sole purpose of our existence: to tell others about our Lord.

30 // February 2021

About The Author

worldly accomplishments that we are missing out on 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 Everyone

It’s About Time

T

by Kaye Stein

o follow up on my last article, where I touched

this Bible appeared so different, but I found something

on finding the right translation for your Bible

else interesting in the back cover. There was a list

study, here’s another idea to help you with

of names, names I recognized as the ladies from my

reading your Bible.

The biggest hurdle is time! Making time involves so

mom’s senior adult Sunday school class. By their names were dates. I asked my mom what this meant, and she

many moving facets in our fast-paced lives. And there

explained that it was a “read your Bible through in a

is so much that can be said at this point, but I felt led to

year” Bible and that her class was taking turns. Once

share just this component at this time. When you draw

you completed it, you signed your name, dated it, and

near to God, He WILL draw near to you! When you

passed it on. I fell in love with the idea of having my name on that list with those ladies I admired so much, so when my mom finished, she handed the Bible off to me.

I had a goal that moved me and that I felt emotionally attached to. In that strange sense, I was driven to complete my goal, and I did. I also learned many things during that year of reading the Bible daily. See, God will take you wherever you are! He doesn’t ask you to come in perfect form because He wants you to come as you are, and He will do the rest.

I accomplished more than just the goal of placing my name on a list. God used that time to help me grow in the understanding of His Word. Time is

make time for Him, He WILL make time for you! It’s

precious, so it’s important to make the most of it by

that simple. He recognizes your efforts, so don’t count

starting now. No more waiting and no more excuses

yourself out. Never give up, no matter how many times

because those things are only holding you back from

you start over! 2 Corinthians 6:2: “For God says, At just

receiving the blessings that He wants to freely give you.

the right time, I heard you. On the day of salvation, I

Hosea 10:12: “Plant the good seeds of righteousness, and

helped you. Indeed, the right time is now. Today is the

you will harvest a crop of love. Plow up the hard ground

day of salvation.’”

of your hearts, for now is the time to seek the Lord, that

I, too, tried a few times to read my Bible through

he may come and shower righteousness upon you.” Luke

and finally did it at age 54, but what helped me was a

12:40: “You also must be ready all the time, for the Son of

revelation to myself. Let me share the story. One day at

Man will come when least expected.”

I flipped through the pages, trying to understand why

32 // February 2021

About The Author

my mom’s house, I noticed a Bible with a pretty cover.

Kaye Stein, native of Chatsworth, residing in Rome is a nurse of 40 years, a mom, and a Nana. A published author who enjoys reading and learning, but mostly family and laughter!

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

Your Prayers Don’t Need Editing

I

by David Thompson

’m always editing. My life is a constant search for

the right order, stick that punctuation back in, and untwist

mistakes. I even edit when I’m not on the job: in the

what’s written so the author’s true meaning can clearly

grocery store, at a restaurant, or watching TV. I can’t turn

come across.

it off! But just fixing mistakes isn’t the point of what I do.

My goal as the GoodNews editor is simple. I want to

But your prayers don’t need editing.

God sees exactly what you mean and what is in your

make it as easy as possible for you, the reader, to understand

heart when you speak to Him. Why? Because He’s God.

the intent and message of each article. I do that by following a

He created you, He knows everything about you, and He

style guide. A style guide standardizes the rules of grammar,

can decipher our “groanings which cannot be uttered” more clearly than any mere mortal. You don’t have to worry about speaking eloquently or using correct grammar when you pray. God already understands you perfectly, style guide or no style guide, and He will always respond to your call for help. “He shall call upon me, and I will answer him: I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honour him” (Psalm 91:15).

When Eli saw Hannah praying silently in 1 Samuel 1, he thought she was drunk. But God didn’t need anyone to translate Hannah’s message; He heard her cry and answered. When David wrote Psalm 51 after laying with Bathsheba, God didn’t need his heavenly editor to explain

punctuation, and writing, which helps everybody stay on the

to Him what David meant by his heartbreaking words of

same page (pun unintended). Everyone might read an article

repentance. And when the publican in Jesus’ parable smote

a little differently, but that’s fine as long as we all agree on the

his breast and cried, “God be merciful to me a sinner” (Luke

same set of rules. That helps you focus on content without

18:13), it didn’t matter that there was no one around to put

having to worry about clarity.

the commas and colons in their place. Because your prayers

The reason I even have a job at all is because we don’t know a person’s intent without their words, and words can

don’t need editing.

There’s nothing inherently wrong with trying to write or speak correctly. I think it’s good to strive for excellence

mistakes. We can leave out a crucial bit of punctuation that

in writing, if I do say so myself. But God would rather you

changes the whole meaning of a sentence. For instance,

come before His presence in humility and honesty than

“Let’s eat, Grandma!” is vastly different from, “Let’s eat

waste your time writing, preparing, and rehearsing a perfect

Grandma!” Cannibalism is just one comma away. Even

prayer. He already knows what’s in your heart, so open

when we talk, what we say can be vastly different from what

your mouth and let it out. He’ll understand you. Because

we mean, and others can take our words and twist them in

your prayers don’t need editing.

a way we never intended. My job is to put words back in

34 // February 2021

About The Author

be misspelled or written in the wrong order. We can make

David Thompson is the editor of GoodNews Christian Magazine. He and his wife, Emily, live in Rome, Georgia.

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

Do You Remember Your First Love?

T

by Janise Copeman

he Lord brought this to my mind the other day

Jeremiah 31:3: “The Lord hath appeared of old unto

and really had me think about a lot of things. Now

me, saying, Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love:

naturally, we all think about that question pertaining

therefore with lovingkindness have I drawn thee.”

to our first love, our first kiss, our first heartache, etc. I think of my precious grandparents and the love that they had for each other even until each of their last breaths. I remember how they had a love story of their own and how their faces would light up even after all the years when I would ask them how they met and fell in love.

Deuteronomy 6:5: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength.”

Romans 5:8: “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”

When you really think how much the Lord loved us and died for us, He was God and could easily have gotten down off the cross and wouldn’t have had to suffer all that pain and agony.

He knew, though, He had to do that for us as a sacrifice, laying down His own wants and His life so we could be redeemed and spend eternity with Him. Love like that!

1 John 3:16: “This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us.”

Zephaniah 3:17: “For the Lord your God is living among you. He is a mighty savior. He will take delight in you with gladness. With his love, he will calm all your fears. He will rejoice over you with joyful songs.”

Titus 3:4: “But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared,

But what the Lord was really whispering to me was about remembering who our first love should be: Him. No

he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy.”

one could love us as unconditionally and perfectly as He

As always, if you have never known this kind of love,

does. It is amazing how we put so much emphasis on so

you may have heard about Jesus but haven’t known Him

many things in our lives and people whom we allow to have

in a real and personal way. Or you may have a hole in your

so much control over our lives that we forget what true love

heart left from a past heartache. I encourage you to run into

really is all about. We forget how He longs to spend time

the safe, loving arms of the One who knows you better than

with us and woos us to come get alone with Him and talk

you even know yourself.

36 // February 2021

About The Author

and share with us.

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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Gò0dNews for Everyone

Goodbye, Fear

E

by Alison Nichols

ver since I was little, I loved riding my bike.

was helping me, an unfortunate event occurred. I ran

My pink 5-speed Huffy bike with sparkly

over his foot not once, but twice.

streamers was legit. With my purple helmet, I

Although it was completely unintentional, I still

was ready to take on any hill. Like many of us, I had

felt bad. My dad assured me that everything was

training wheels on my bike when I first learned how

alright and that I should try riding again. But I didn’t.

to ride. The training wheels were created to make the

Months passed before I considered riding my bike

learning process easier. Obviously, they weren’t meant

again. I was so afraid that the same thing would happen again. The bottom line was that I allowed fear to control me.

Fear steals life, time, and joy. We all have seasons in our lives where we experience fear, but as believers, we have an unwavering Hope. Our God is always with us and for us. “…for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control” (2 Timothy 1:7).

I don’t know what situation or giants you might be facing, but I encourage you to not allow

to stay on forever. I remember my dad talking to me about removing the training wheels. He believed I was ready. I was nervous, but he assured me that he would help me along the way. After many days of trying to

fear to take hold.

“Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you” (1 Peter 5:7).

God may be using this season to prepare you for

get my balance and steering down, I felt I was finally

what He is about to do in and through you in the days

making progress. One afternoon, I decided to ride on

ahead. Cast your fears aside, and walk boldly into the

my own without any help. Adventuring halfway down

future God has for you!

wobble. My dad arrived at the perfect moment, taking hold of the handles to keep me from falling. While he

38 // February 2021

About The Author

our driveway, fear set in and I began to teeter and Alison Nichols is an active member of Fellowship Baptist Church in Rome, Georgia. She loves vintage clothing, antique cameras, and spending time with her family.

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

The Perfect Love Story

E

by Dorothy Teague

verybody wants that perfect love story, the “knight

aligns the events of your life to create the best outcomes.

in shining armor” kind of story. For lonely hearts,

“For I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper

both young and old, especially around Valentine’s

you and not to harm you; plans to give you a future and a

Day, the loneliness and depression become worse. We

hope” (Jeremiah 29:11). Being a singer, this is my favorite

wonder why that special someone hasn’t shown up yet

part: “He rejoices over you with singing.” The lover of

and if there’s something wrong with us. God’s timing is

my soul sings love songs to me!

everything! His plans for us are so much better than we

One morning, when my children were young, I had

could ever dream up! But the waiting is so hard when

the day off, and my two sons were also off from school.

you look around and see everyone else in love or getting

I had turned off the alarm on my clock radio so that it wouldn’t wake us. I was in the best sleep I’d had in a good while. Then, I heard singing, kind of in the background.

It was the most beautiful singing I’d ever heard. I felt so much peace. My conscious mind slowly fought its way to the surface. I thought, “That radio alarm has come on after I turned it off last night!” Now I was awake, so I slowly opened my eyes and reached over to turn the radio back off so that my sons across the hall wouldn’t wake up. When I tried to turn it off, I realized it WAS off!

It was not playing! I just had to ask out loud, “Lord, was that you and the angels

married. In the meantime, this verse speaks volumes

singing songs to me?” I found this gem of a verse later

about the one who truly loves us better than anyone

on, and it made perfect sense to me.

could. “He will rejoice over you with gladness; He will

God knows what’s best for us in each season of our

quiet you with His love; He will rejoice over you with

lives. “He works all things for our good…” (Romans

singing” (Zephaniah 3:17). Talk about a love story!

8:28). When we are in the waiting room of life, hoping

I love to find nuggets of knowledge in the Word like

and praying for love or other miracles, don’t give up!

this that are so encouraging in times of desperation. God

God loves us and wants to give us good things. It just

loves us so much He rejoices over every good thing we

might not be the right time, but God’s timing is always

accomplish in His name. He knows when we are sad or

right on time!

you have a really good day, it’s because of Him. He

40 // February 2021

About The Author

mad and quiets our spirits with signs of His love. When

Dorothy Teague is a Tennessee native, who resides in McMinn County with her husband, Lewis, on their farm. After completing 31.5 years as a teacher in the Bradley County School System, she is active in her church at Eastanallee Baptist Church where she is a member of the choir and praise team.

Gò0dNews

Christian Magazine

Mission Statement:

W

Writer Guidelines:

e believe when people are equipped,

Who: Our writers range from pastors, professors, and

motivated, and passionately engaged in

professional writers to stay at home moms and dads,

living out their faith in Jesus Christ they

business professionals, and others who have a desire to

have the potential to be world changers.

Our mission is to bring people into a dynamic

relationship with Jesus Christ—a relationship that empowers them to see how God can work through individual personalities, situations, and talents.

Christ was an activist, he did not neglect the needs of the people as He brought His message. We strive to encourage everyone to look more like Christ by reaching outside of themselves to serve the needs of others—at home, at school, in communities, and across the world.

goodnewscm.com Phone: 423.478.6484

reach out to people through words of encouragement.

What: We believe that it is important to laugh together, praise each other, encourage one another, and to offer biblical advice. Articles can be directed toward everyone, or from woman to woman, or man to man. We love to share recipes and family traditions as well. We ask that articles be kept to a 500 word maximum. We’d love to hear from you!

Where: Please send submissions to articles.goodnews@gmail.com Why: Because God has not intended for us to just survive. We believe that we are intended to reach out to love and encourage each other. God has brought each of us through tough times, blessed us, and made the “impossible” possible. Let’s, together, share the love of Jesus Christ.

Gò0dNews for your Taste Buds

Curried Parsley Chicken

O

by Deana Thompson

ver the past few days, God has been bringing the prophet Hosea across my path again and again.

Hosea’s life was to be a picture of how God loved

Israel. Hosea was told by God to marry a prostitute; but after he

Ingredients

married Gomer and had three children by her, she left him and

• ¾ pkg. saltine crackers, finely crushed

returned to her life of prostitution. So what was God’s response?

• 2 Tbsp. dried parsley

He told Hosea to once again get his wife and bring her home; and there, Hosea pledged his love for her (3:3).

Throughout the Old Testament, God would save the Israelites from enemy nations, bless them, and provide for them; but soon, they would return to the idols of those nations—idols which hadn’t been able to save that nation from their God’s destruction! And God’s response was to once again gather the nation of Israel under His wings, bless them, and provide for them.

• 1 Tbsp. curry powder • 1 tsp. onion salt • ¼ tsp. pepper • ½ c. butter, melted • 1½ lb. chicken breasts (skinned, boned, and cut into strips)

In Hosea 14, we hear God’s heart cry as Hosea pens, “O Israel! Return to the Lord your God! You have stumbled because of your iniquity. Take words with you and return to the Lord” (v. 1-2). Hosea proclaims that neither nations nor idols can save them; only God can. And then God affirms all the good He is just waiting to pour out on them if they would just return.

I hear God saying that to us: “Return to Me! I am just waiting to heal your backsliding, to love you freely, and to bless you immensely!” (14:4). All it takes is for us to begin moving toward Him with words of confession on our lips. And God, in His mercy (14:3), will do the rest.

Instructions 1. Preheat the oven at 375 Degrees Fahrenheit.

2. In a shallow medium bowl, combine the crackers, parsley, curry powder, onion salt, and pepper. Set aside.

3. Pour the melted butter in another shallow bowl.

4. Rinse the chicken and pat it dry. Dip a chicken strip in the melted butter, then roll it in the coating mixture, spooning the mixture over it.

5. Arrange the chicken pieces in a greased 9x13 baking dish so the pieces do not touch. Drizzle any remaining butter on top.

6. Bake for 25 minutes or until tender and no longer pink.

NOTE: You can bake this at 350 for 35-40 minutes if you desire to bake it with another dish that cooks at this temperature.

42 // February 2021

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