Gò0dNews February 2024
Complimentary
Christian Magazine
®
ROME
Your One-Stop Shop For Insurance Ben McWhorter
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About Us WRITERS
Dr. Alan Hix Courtney Fox Dorothy Teague Heather Guthrie Jonathon Wright Kenneth E. Ware Kristen West Mary Wanda Lindsey Pam Wattenbarger Rachel Smith Reagan Marsh Rick Hughes Dr. Rob Debelak Rodney Jones Thomas Morrison
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when God, family, and community are combined, GoodNews Christian Magazine is a complimentary, Christian lifestyle publication. You can find us throughout the community in retail establishments, churches, restaurants, and more. Our magazine opens the door for Christians to work together to grow and strengthen our community through relevant editorial and effective advertising. GoodNews Christian Magazine is written by men and women in the community who love and serve the Lord. Our hearts are open and willing to be used by God to reach out to the community to spread the GoodNews!
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Contents FEBRUARY 2024
GoodNews from the Pastor’s Desk
6 Ask the Pastor: What Books
Would You Recommend for a New Christian? by Reagan Marsh
GoodNews for Seniors
8 Bring Souls To Christ
by Mary Wanda Lindsey
GoodNews for Parents
24 Kids in the Kitchen by Courtney Fox
GoodNews for Kids
26 Hey Kids: Do These Four Things and Have a Happy Life
by Rodney Jones
GoodNews Money Matters
GoodNews for Everyone
Financial Plan
by Dr. Alan Hix
10 The Heart of Your by Rick Hughes GoodNews for Men
12 More than Get You
Through the Storm
by Jonathon Wright GoodNews for Women
14 Be Still
by Rachel Smith
GoodNews for Marriage
18 A Study from Ephesians by Kenneth E. Ware
GoodNews Cover Story
20 Unity Christian School:
Pursuing Potential, Partnering with Parents, Fortifying the Future
GoodNews for Life
22 Purpose in Pain by Kristen West
28 When Is Love Not Love?
14
GoodNews on Hymns
30 Why I Love These Lyrics by Heather Guthrie
GoodNews for your Taste Buds
32 Classic Baked Macaroni and Cheese
by Pam Wattenbarger GoodNews Poetry
34 Prayers
by Dorothy Teague
GoodNews for Everyone
36 A Mount of Blessing:
20
Numbers 6:22-27
by Dr. Rob Debelak
GoodNews for Health & Fitness
38 Why Exercise Is Medicine for the Mind
by Thomas Morrison
36
Gò0dNews from the Pastor’s Desk
Ask the Pastor: What Books Would You Recommend for a New Christian?
A
by Rev. Reagan Marsh
s a longtime pastor and biblical counselor, I field a lot
His Affirming the Apostles’ Creed and Keeping the Ten
of questions. I received this one recently and decided to
Commandments are extremely practical books.
share my response. I hope it’s helpful for you.
Q. What books would you recommend for a new Christian?
How do I get them started well? A. What a great question and a wonderful privilege to spend
8. John Calvin, A Little Book on the Christian Life. Reformation Trust's edition is recommended. 9. Don Whitney, Family Worship; and Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life (note that his chapter on journaling stretches
some time helping a new believer get well-established in the things
his exegesis a bit, but the book on the whole is solid,
of God! Good books are a fantastic resource. Most new Christians,
practical, and useful).
however, will need some help in reading with understanding. Plan to read through these books with your friend. Start here: 1. Get them a faithful study Bible. The Reformation Heritage KJV
10. Brian Cosby, God’s Story: A Student’s Guide to Church History is the best brief, simple survey. Sinclair Ferguson, In the Year of Our Lord, is accessible and engaging. If you have
Study Bible, the ESV Study Bible, the MacArthur Study Bible, or the
someone who’s more historically-minded, the best of the
Reformation Study Bible would be my first recommendations.
best is Nick Needham’s 2000 Years of Christ’s Power (5 vols;
2. Get them a copy of your church's confession of faith, creed(s), and catechism. 3. Sinclair Ferguson’s three books Grow in Grace and The
non-technical, but excellent). 11. Thomas Watson's trilogy: A Body of Divinity; The Ten Commandments; and The Lord's Prayer. Yes, this is a Puritan
Christian Life: A Doctrinal Introduction and Maturity: Growing
trilogy. It’s highly readable, very engaging, and deceptively
Up and Going On in the Christian Life are very helpful.
contemporary. He sees God and men so clearly through the
4. Jerry Bridges, The Practice of Godliness, Trusting God, and
lens of Scripture. Watson is the “cream of the crop” of the past!
Transforming Grace are must-reads (truly, anything by Bridges is gold). 5. Milton Vincent, A Gospel Primer for Christians is worth revisiting annually. 6. R.C. Sproul, The Holiness of God, Faith Alone, Chosen by God, and Growing in Holiness are category-defining books. 7. J.I. Packer, The Most Important 18 Words You'll Ever Know, Concise Theology, and Knowing God (in that order).
So, there's a suggested reading list. How do you walk them through this? With great patience! Plan to meet with them every other week over coffee to discuss the reading: an agreed-upon portion of Scripture and one chapter of a book. Have them note questions in the margin for your meetings. Tie these questions into your church’s confession of faith as applicable, and share how you try to apply these biblical truths in your own life. Memorize a Bible verse and a catechism question together for each meeting, and hold one another accountable on this! Begin and end with prayer together, and contact one another during the week for encouragement and to know how to pray for one another. This is simple, reproducible, sustainable, relational, long-term discipleship. May God be glorified as you point one another to him! Keep your questions coming at reformationdalton.com – I’ll do
6 // February 2024
About The Author
my best to answer helpfully and faithfully from the Scriptures.
Reagan Marsh is the founding pastor-teacher of Reformation Baptist Church of Dalton, GA. He contributed to The Jonathan Edwards Encyclopedia (Eerdmans), coedited in The Works of John Flavel (Banner of Truth), and authored two biblical counseling minibooks (The Greater Heritage). Reagan writes regularly for The Founders Journal and is coediting The Works of Hercules Collins (forthcoming, H&E). An SBTS graduate, certified biblical counselor, and Th.M student in historical theology, he has served in gospel ministry since 1998.
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Gò0dNews for Seniors
Bring Souls To Christ
T
by Mary Wanda Lindsey
hose people who can influence others to come unto
School leader explained to our children which classes they
Christ and partake of His goodness are to be admired
would be attending, walked with them to their classes, and
and respected. I have never been good at it myself
introduced them to their teachers. The Youth and Primary
but recently I was given some advice. I would like to share
leaders explained the mid-week activities and offered to
this information with our readers because it will help each
give the children rides to these activities. My husband was
of us bring souls to Christ. The plan is simple; it's just three
invited to join their softball team. It was a loving, kind, and
words: Love, Serve, and Invite. How do we love everyone? First of all, we get to know them. How? By spending time with them, asking questions, and listening closely to the answers. We could ask them to tell us about their family, what they do for a living, what their talents are, or their hobbies. Readers, what questions would you ask? As we get to know a person we begin to love them. Now we are ready to serve them in whatever way we can. In Matthew 25:35-40 KJV, the Lord tells us how serving others serves Him. “For I was hungry, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in: Naked,
amazing experience. It was like coming home. The friends
and ye clothed me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me.
that we made then we still have today, fifty years later.
Then shall the righteous answer him, saying Lord, when
Now, following this example (or others like it) they
saw we thee hungry, and fed thee? Or thirsty, and gave thee
know we love them, and that we enjoy serving them.
drink? When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? Or
Next, we invite them to come unto Christ and receive His
naked, and clothed thee? Or when saw we thee sick, or in
blessings. There is a hymn written by Phillip Paul Bliss
prison, and came unto thee? And the King shall answer and
about caring enough to rescue others. It is titled “Brightly
say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have
Beams our Father's Mercy.” The lyrics include, “Let your
done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, Ye have
lower lights be burning; Send a gleam across the wave.
done it unto me.”
Some pour fainting, struggling sea-man You may rescue,
I would like to share a personal example. It was in July
you may save.”
of 1973 that my family and I attended a new church for the
“He that loveth his brother abides in the light” (1 John
first time. I honestly believe everyone who attended church
2:10 KJV). This is a promise from our Savior that if we try
that day greeted us. They each welcomed us and said how
every day to love, serve, and invite someone, we will bring
happy they were to meet us and how happy they were to
souls to Him. We will also abide in His light forever and
have our family attending church with them. But it didn't
never walk in darkness.
after church and to have lunch with them. The Sunday
8 // February 2024
About The Author
end there, one family invited us to come home with them
Mary Wanda Lindsey loves the Lord and His people. She and her husband have been parents and foster parents. They have three children, 15 grandchildren, and 30 great-grandchildren. As a family, they have lived in 6 different states plus Toronto, Canada.
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The Heart of Your Financial Plan with
Money Matters Rick Hughes Driven by a passion to educate, inform and prepare future retirees, Mr. Hughes founded Hughes Retirement Group in 2007. His main interest is helping his clients in reducing their taxes.
F
ebruary is best known for Valentine’s Day, so it should be
If you felt that your heart was having issues or troubles,
no surprise that it is also American Heart Month. Making
would you rely solely on your family physician to care for you
small, heart-healthy changes such as choosing healthier
or would you get a referral to a cardiologist, who specializes
foods or being more active during our day can have a huge
in medical areas of the heart? Would you know exactly what
impact on protecting our heart’s health and our overall longevity.
to ask when you arrived for that appointment, or would
At Hughes Retirement Group, we like to think that a solid,
you expect the cardiologist to know the tests to give and
healthy retirement plan is the heart of one’s ability to enjoy and
questions to ask? As a retiree approaching or in retirement,
make the most of their retirement years. As the heart pumps blood
you need a financial specialist to care for your retirement
to all parts of the body, your retirement plan pumps life to all
plan and retirement future. Will you have enough income in
parts of retirement. Most people think of retirement and wonder if
retirement? How will those sources of income be taxed? How
they will be able to afford to retire, instead of if they will be able to
will the way your assets are invested and allocated affect the
enjoy retirement. Just as we can live a normal life, living a healthy
growth potential that they have? What options might you
life is usually much more productive and enjoyable.
consider investing in to create another stream of income during
The heart regulates our blood pressure. When we become
retirement? What is your investment risk score? Will these
stressed or overwork ourselves, our blood pressure can increase
distributions or any other law changes affect your income from
and become unhealthy. We have all experienced the stress of
Social Security? What is your Social Security Risk Score? How
the stock markets. These increases and decreases can cause the
will long-term care costs be covered if the need arises? What
pressure on our retirement plan to increase to unhealthy levels
about Medicare – how does that fit into your retirement plan?
as well. If you are taking distributions during retirement, having
Will you be required to pay extra Medicare premiums due to
a major market decline can have a very unhealthy effect on
income levels prior to turning 65? Would it benefit you more to
how those distributions affect the longevity of the account and
remain on your employer’s insurance and postpone Medicare if
the ability to sustain normal lifestyles during retirement. When
you work past 65 and if so, what are the steps to do that? Your
we become overworked or stressed in daily life, sometimes
financial advisor should have all the right questions and know
we take vacations to relax and recharge. Your retirement plan
which tests to run to assess your retirement plan’s stress levels
should still account for you having the ability to continue taking
and health based on your needs and objectives.
vacations. Or maybe you like to make gifts to your children or
If you feel like the “heart” of your retirement plan might
to charities each year. Perhaps you would like a vacation home
need a checkup during American Heart Month, please contact
in retirement or a new car. No matter the extra things outside of
our office for an appointment. We would also like to encourage
just funding basic retirement needs, your retirement plan should
everyone to make sure they are making heart-healthy choices
account for it all.
for a full and fruitful life.
10 // February 2024
K E L L I D G O N Z A L E Z C PA certified public accountant
706.528.4159 | 2518 Shorter Ave, Rome, GA 30165
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Gò0dNews for Men
More than Get You Through the Storm by Jonathon Wright
I
n Mark 4, Jesus showed the disciples that He had the
praise, glory, and honor. Like the rest of the disciples, Peter
power to calm the raging seas. The terrified disciples
knew that God was with him through every storm. That is
thought they were going to die. At first, they felt Jesus did
why James and the others could rejoice and take joy when
not care for them because he was resting in the front of the
they faced hardships. They had faith that God was working
boat. They came to him, and the storm was gone after Jesus
in their lives. This simple truth helped them trust, wait, and
said three words. Following this, Jesus talked to them about
weather any storm.
their lack of faith. They did not do well on this test, but Jesus took care of it and kept working with them. He worked to help them fulfill their mission and become the people He was calling them to be.
James 1:2-8 Facing trials, temptations, and the storms of life can be unsettling. But James says we should count it all joy when this happens because it helps us to mature and complete our faith. Sometimes it is not easy to understand how hard times can be beneficial to our Christian faith. These are opportunities for God to teach us and increase our faith; however, sometimes it takes a while to recognize all God is doing. James knew this and was encouraging them to have unwavering faith in God. We do not want to let the wind and the waves of life's problems cause us to doubt and drive us away from God's blessings.
Peter And Paul Other apostles like Paul and Peter also had a high opinion of the value of experiencing difficulties. In Romans 5:3-5, Paul talks about rejoicing in tribulation or hard times. He did that so it would produce patience and experience with God. These experiences then produce hope and a sense of God’s love because of the Holy Spirit in our hearts. Paul knew the importance of praising God in the hard times. In Acts 16, he was in a Philippian jail praising God. The Lord sent an earthquake to get Paul out of jail. All of this helped Paul lead the jailer to Christ and establish
My Testimony Right before the COVID-19 pandemic, I encountered some health and personal issues. That was one of my lowest points, but God helped me through. He gave me a wonderful family and friends in our church who weathered that storm with me. He gave me a better appreciation for what I have in the Lord. That storm helped me become a better father and follower of Christ. I am a new man with renewed hope because of it. Also, I am so thankful the pandemic has moved away from us like a passing storm. I am so glad we serve a God who does more than get us through the storm. He meets us in the tribulations of hard times to bless and enrich our lives.
the Philippian church. faith as more precious than gold. He knew it would bring
12 // February 2024
About The Author
In 1 Peter 1:7, Peter describes the process of testing our
Jonathon Wright has been a member of the Church of God for about twenty years. He is a graduate of Lee University and Beacon University where he earned a BA and MA in Biblical studies. He loves studying the Bible and has done so for over thirty years, but only now has God given him a desire and the opportunity to be a writer. You can find more from Jonathon at https://christianwritersbookstore.com/jonathon-wright.
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Gò0dNews for Women
Be Still by Rachel Smith
B
e Still. Those two words are something we hear
I also love to talk to God and worship while I’m driving.
throughout our lifetimes. From being a little kid
If you’re not a morning person, then maybe evening is best
sitting on a church pew to getting a shot at the
for you. The key is creating a daily routine that includes
doctor’s office to having someone do our makeup as we
time for you to be still in His Presence. I can guarantee you
prepare to get married. Of all the instances of hearing this,
from experience that if you make time for God, you can
It is God’s Word that I hear in my head the most when He
get more done than you ever could when you try to go on
said, “Be still, and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10 KJV).
about your day without spending time with Him. We never
For women, being still is not always easy. Life can be so busy and so overwhelming at times. Most women work either in the home or outside of it, take care of children, do all the laundry, keep the house clean, do all the grocery shopping, pay bills, and put on their taxi hat to run everyone around to school, sports, and appointments. Most women feel like a superwoman at times or at least feel the pressure to be one.
know what troubles we may face throughout the day when
But in all the busyness of life, it’s crucial that we stop to be
it comes to our marriage, kids, or work, but if we have had
still, to rest, and to get in a secret place with the Lord.
time in God’s presence, we are much more likely to stay in
When the Prophet Elijah was on the mountaintop waiting for the Lord, the Bible tells us that the Lord was
the fruit of the Spirit and handle it more appropriately. Whatever battle you’re facing in life right now, I want
not in the powerful wind, the earthquake, or the fire, but
to encourage you to find time to just be still. We serve a
He came in a gentle whisper. (See 1 Kings 19:11-13). If we
good God who loves us, cares for us, and wants to have a
don’t stop and be still, we may not hear God’s voice when
relationship with us. Get in His presence, because there you
He wants to whisper something to us. Someone asked me
will find peace and comfort, and the answers to whatever
once how I make time for God with all the things I already
you’re facing today.
have on my plate, and my answer was simple, I get up with Him. I love to grab a cup of coffee, sit on my front porch as the sun is rising, read my Bible, worship, and talk to God.
14 // February 2024
About The Author
early in the mornings before my day starts to spend time
Rachel Smith is the founder of Transformed Wife, a non-profit organization that helps others learn God’s design for marriage. She hosts local conferences and retreats to help strengthen couples, and travels to speak all over the world. She has been married to her husband, Richard Smith, for 16 years. www.transformedwife.com.
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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 2024
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 Eden Valley Baptist Church 348 Eden Valley Rd Rome, Ga 30161 770-608-8168 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
4216 Alabama Hwy NW Rome, Ga 30165 706-291-0500 Renovation Church 13 Redmond Ct. Rome, Ga 30165 706-314-9084
Armuchee Church of God 4974 Martha Berry Hwy Rome, Ga 30165 706-232-4414 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
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 3300 Garden Lakes Pkwy Rome, Ga 30165 706-235-2281
Church of God
Latter-day Saints
Lutheran
Holy Trinity Lutheran Church 3000 Garden Lakes Blvd Rome, Ga 30165 706-232-7257
Methodist
Cornerstone Church 324 Mathis Dr Rome, Ga 30165 Ministerios El Vino Nuevo
GracePoint Rome 43 Chateau Court Rome, Ga 30161 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 Silver Creek UMC 36 Reeceburg Rd SE Silver Creek, GA 30173 706-234-2518 South Broad UMC 546 S Broad St Rome, Ga 30161
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
Disciples of Christ
First Christian Church 209 E. Second Ave, Rome, Ga 30161
Episcopal
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
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
Messianic
Congregation Hallelu HaShem 1869 Floyd Springs Rd NE, Armuchee, GA 3105 706-936-6711
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 Beech Creek Church 2972 Alabama Hwy, Rome, Ga 30165 706-346-1018 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 Greater Refuge Ministries 1604 North Broad St Rome, GA 30161 706-622-2448 Legacy Church 524 Avenue A SW Rome, GA 30165 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
2460 Shorter Avenue Rome, Ga 30165 706-235-8561 Shannon Community Church 600 First Street Shannon, GA 30172 706-491-7112 Solid Holy Rock Deliverance Tabernacle 700 Kingston Ave Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-8948 The Church at Rome 1649 Cartersville Hwy SE Rome, Ga 30161 706-346-2733 Trinity United Christian Church 6 Deer Run Trail Rome, Ga 30165 706-204-8270 We The Church 1818 Kingston Hwy 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
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 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 Marriage
A Study from Ephesians nstituted by God Himself, marriage is to reflect the relationship between Jesus Christ and His Bride (the Church) – an earthly illustration of the heavenly reality. As a covenant agreement between God and the couple, the Bible regards marriage in very high honor (see Hebrews 13:4). One man and one woman until death parts them, has always been God’s original plan for holy matrimony. The Apostle Paul’s epistle to the Ephesians has some choice words pertaining to the roles and responsibilities in a Christ-centered marriage. The Role of the Wife I. Be Liable to Your Own Husband | Eph. 5:22, 24 Although all believers are to be subject to one another in the fear of Christ, in the Christian marriage, wives are instructed to “be subject” to her own husband, as to the Lord (Eph.5:21-22; Tit.2:5; 1Pet.3:1-6). Now, that does not mean that she must become inferior to her husband. Nor does it mean the husband is to be superior to his wife. The word subject (ύποτασσάμενοι) is a present tense verb which means to voluntarily rank under the authority of another. It’s also a military term that means to keep on giving up one’s own right or will to another. As long as it does not cause her to compromise her faith in Jesus Christ or violate scripture, she is to be subject to her husband “in everything” (v.24). As the wife keeps on submitting herself to her own husband’s authority, she will be subjecting herself as to the Lord. The Role of the Husband II. Lead with the Authority of Christ | Eph. 5:23 Anything with two heads is a monster. Likewise, if the marriage is struggling with who’s going to be the head, it, too, will give the perception of something that is both dysfunctional and chaotic. To be exact, the husband is the head of the wife and family (Eph.5:23; 1Cor.11:3). The Greek word head (κεφαλή) means authoritative leader who provides direction. The husband is to be the primary decisionmaker in the home. Now, this does not mean the wife cannot make an executive decision, but the executive decision must be in agreement with her husband. Because of his position in Christ, the husband has the final authority on every matter
18 // February 2024
in the home. The husband has more responsibilities than his wife. He is responsible for all decisions. He is to be the spiritual and familial leader in the home. III. Love with the Affection of Christ | Eph. 5:25-30 The old adage, “Happy wife, happy life” or “Happy house, happy spouse” is humorous, but there is some truth to it. Since Jewish antiquity, love has always been an attribute
of action. In the New Testament, love is a state of being verb. Love always seeks the best interest of another. It is imperative for the husband to love (άγαπατε) his wife, continuously, sacrificially, and unconditionally. More than simply a statement, love is to be put into action. A husband must love his wife, like Christ loved the church and gave Himself up for her (v.25). A husband might ask the question, “How can I love my wife like Christ loves the church?” Answer, by being her prophet (represent God to her), her priest (represent her to God), her provider (supply her spiritual, physical, and economic needs), and her propitiation (sacrifice your life for hers, i.e. love her until death). See Ephesians chapter 5 for further study.
About The Author
I
by Kenneth E. Ware
Kenneth E. Ware, M.M., M.A.B.S., M. Div. Pastor of New Sholar Avenue Baptist Church. Alumni Graduate of Temple Baptist Seminary. Christian Writer, Professor, and Expository Bible Teacher at Samford University Ministry Training Institute at Hamilton County Baptist Association in Chattanooga, Tennessee.
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Unity Christian School:
Pursuing Potential, Partnering with Parents, Fortifying the Future
I
f you are driving from Rome to Calhoun any business day, odds are you have seen children playing in the front field at Unity Christian School on Highway 53. Based on the name
and school uniforms, you might conclude it is a Christian private school. And, based on a student or a teacher you know, you may be aware that Unity Christian School offers a Pre-K3 to 12th-grade education with an emphasis on college preparation and Biblical worldview integration. But do you know what the mission of Unity is? The mission of Unity Christian School is to partner with Christian parents in preparing their children to impact the world for Christ by pursuing their God-given potential in academics, leadership, and service. To put it another way, Unity is on the frontline of the battle for the hearts and minds of children in Christian families. While most schools define success as top test scores or sports championships, the faculty and staff of Unity define success as when a student expresses their faith in Jesus and understands how to communicate their faith to the world around them – particularly in the face of adversity.
20 // February 2024
Unity by the Numbers Now, let’s be clear. Unity isn’t opposed to top test scores, sports championships, or other accolades. In fact, the hard work and sacrifice of Unity’s staff and families over the past 26 years is reflected in all that Unity offers and has accomplished. Here is just a short list: • 359 enrolled students • 299 families and 99 churches represented by those families • 67 faculty and staff • 5 AP courses offered • 2 Accreditations: ACSI and COGNIA • 23,237 cumulative volunteer hours by Unity graduates and high school students • #1 ACT and SAT scores in Floyd County in 2023 • 2022-2023 GAPPS Division 1A High School Girls Basketball Champions • 2023 GAPPS Class A Middle School Football Champions • 2023 GAPPS Class AA High School Football Champions • Every week: Chapel and small groups. • Every day: Biblical worldview integration.
So Much More: Partners in Parenting But again, Unity offers so much more. So what makes Unity different and worth the financial sacrifice? In 2023, Unity enrollment increased the most in middle school where students are ages 11-14. Middle School Principal Matt Claytor has taught and coached at Unity since 2009. “The reason we see families flocking to Unity in middle school is that their children are bombarded with predatory and addictive social media, choices and ideas that previously wouldn’t have been presented to them until age 17 or 18, and just an overwhelming sense that as parents, we cannot keep up with the digital age or deconstruction of our values. Parents increasingly are coming to Unity for refuge and for similarly-minded believers to walk with them and their teenagers. The 8-10 hours students are at Unity each day, we encourage our students to believe and embrace the same values they hear in church and in their homes. For today’s parents, this is invaluable.” Samantha Tew is a new Unity parent who enrolled her daughter in 8th grade this year. “Facing the growing social challenges and pressures of middle school, we wanted to find an environment that promoted a focus on learning and development – not only academically, but in faith and character. Unity has provided us that community and is a reminder that we are not navigating through these challenges alone. Because of a real partnership with Unity teachers and coaches, I see a tangible difference in our child particularly in how she engages with us at home.” The Tew family made the hard decision to move from a free education to a financial commitment. But with that incredible sacrifice has come incredible blessing. The desire of Unity parents to steward their children’s educational experience towards a protective environment and like-minded faculty is not unique to Unity families. In October 2023, Unity Head of School Eric Munn, Elementary School Principal Rebekah Mathis, and High School Principal Susan Payne attended the regional ACSI Leadership Network meeting
Counseling and Human Development Services. Dr. Giordano specializes in guiding parents and educators to navigate the challenges of a world filled with digital devices. The event will be held at 6:00 p.m. at the Marriott Courtyard Rome Riverwalk. It is the desire of Unity that this seminar will provide parents vital insight in navigating the digital age. Unity’s growth and success, Unity’s constant testimony, and the Tew Family’s experience, these all reflect the intentional, prayed-for mission of Unity Christian School. Unity and its leadership will continue to pray that the Lord uses Unity to impact not only our own students and families but our community as well. If you would like to know more about Unity Christian School, please go to our website www.unitychristianschool.org, or contact Director of Admissions Michelle Roll at 706-292-0700. If you would like to financially support the mission of Unity Christian School, a non-profit organization, contact the Director of Advancement Emily Matson also at 706-292-0700. Unity is currently enrolling new students for the 2024-2025 school year and invites prospective families to attend OPEN HOUSE on January 30th or February 13th at 6:00 p.m. Unity Christian School is located at 2960 New Calhoun Hwy NE, Rome, Georgia 30161.
in Chattanooga, Tennessee with other Christian school leaders from north Georgia and east Tennessee. Each and every school leader agreed that the number one plea from their parents is not better education or more extracurriculars – it is a cry to help parents deal with rapidly changing technology, the influence of social media, and the mental and emotional trauma experienced by young teens in the face of it all. In light of these realities, Unity Christian School is more committed than ever to fulfilling its mission to partner with parents. To that end, Unity is inviting all Christian parents, grandparents, and guardians to attend a free seminar on February 8th: Raising Kids in a Digital Age. Our guest speaker will be Dr. Amanda Giordano, UGA Professor Department of
goodnewscm.com // 21
Gò0dNews for Life
Purpose in Pain
D
by Kristen West
iscipline and Suffering. Not many of us read those
regimented daily routines were all part of the training it
two words, raise our hands, and shout, Yes, please!
took to be an amazing athlete. They disciplined themselves
Sign me up for a double portion of that!
so as to be in shape when it came time to perform.
The very words discipline and suffering evoke images
God uses the suffering in our lives in a similar fashion.
of pain and discomfort, two things scientifically proven that
We are being trained by it (if we let it), sharpened through
humans will avoid at all cost.
it, and challenged to grow and mature to look more like our
Yet, our days seem to be filled with suffering in some manner, don’t they? It might be anything from a broken
Savior than we ever have. Contrary to what the enemy loves to tell us, suffering
relationship to a broken appliance, a loss of a loved one to a
and discipline are not punishment – God doesn’t hate us.
loss of a job, a longing to be married to a longing for some rest.
“My dear child, don’t shrug off God’s discipline but
Unchecked, suffering can wear us down and cause us to become discouraged and weary. As Christ-followers,
don’t be crushed by it either. It’s the child He loves that He disciplines; the child He embraces, He also corrects… This trouble [suffering] you’re in isn’t punishment; it’s training, the normal experience of children. Only irresponsible parents would leave children to fend for themselves” (Hebrews 12:5, 9, and 10 MSG). What’s the purpose of discipline and suffering then? Why do we go through so much of it? “…it pays off big-time, for it’s the well-trained who find themselves mature in their relationship with God” (Hebrews 12:10 MSG). Through suffering, we grow to
though, we are encouraged to keep discipline and suffering
become mature in our relationship with God, steadfast in our
in their proper perspective.
walk, and anchored in our faith. We see more deeply how the
The first 12 verses of Hebrews 12 provide a clear
Scriptures apply to our lives, how rich and deep God’s love
description of how God uses suffering and discipline for
for us is in our darkest of moments, and how everything in
our good.
our lives is used to train and develop us on our faith journey
“Endure suffering as discipline…[God] disciplines us for our benefit, so that we can share His holiness” (Hebrews 12:7,10 CSB). Discipline is synonymous with training. We have all
(see Romans 8:28). “For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is going to be revealed to us” (Romans 8:18 CSB).
order to be their very best at their sport. The rigorous diets and workouts, the early morning conditionings, and their
22 // February 2024
About The Author
heard stories of athletes who disciplined themselves in Kristen West works at Rock Bridge Community Church with a heart for staff leadership, development, and care. She is a communicator with a passion to inspire, encourage, and challenge others in their daily walk with Christ. She writes and publishes weekly content on her blog at kristen-west.com.
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Gò0dNews for Parents
Kids in the Kitchen by Courtney Fox
Think outside the box - even little tweaks to their nutrition can change their health and life! Don’t be afraid to get silly, make things a game. More examples: • Level up their cereal. Over time, you can transition to something with less sugar, more fiber, and whole grains. Start small. It might take them a few times to get used to it. Don’t give up. • Eat together as a family. Talk about your day, not your food if you have picky eaters. This brings the focus to something other than what they are anxious about. • Remember, just trying a food shows your child is brave. Let them ‘Kiss The Food Goodbye’ if they don’t want something today. By approaching it this way, you are meeting them in the middle but they also are getting hints of the food’s flavor profile, helping them be more familiar with it for next time. • If your little one doesn’t fancy store-bought green beans, dice up some ham and let it simmer on the
24 // February 2024
stove. Ask your child what two colors he/she spies. • Add all kinds of veggies to meatloaf (just chop them up small and top with a little ketchup). Green bell peppers, carrots, celery, and mushrooms are a few you might not have thought to include! Kids love your TIME. Spending time with them in the kitchen can create lifelong memories. They can help do plenty of things. What about these options? • Show them how to pull grapes off the stem and put them on a kabob stick. This side of colorful fruit doubles as a craft! They become so proud to show their family what they have helped make for dinner. • Clean out the fridge. Let your kiddo create a chef salad. Pull out any ingredients he/she can add in a large salad bowl. Allow them to experiment with mixing meats, cheeses, seasonings, veggies, fruits, nuts…whatever! It’s common for children to sometimes reject certain foods. In those moments when your child is complaining, calmly redirect him/her toward prayer and gratitude. Your little one may just need a simple attitude reset. Praying before mealtime gives them opportunities to fill their gratitude bucket. Teach them gratitude changes attitude. Mealtime prayers for small kids can be a rhyme or perhaps something simple and grounding, “Dear Lord, Thank you for providing us this food. Amen!” or quoting Scripture such as 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 KJV, “Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” Your kitchen can become a nourishing place for the mind, body, and soul and a practical place for making meals along with memories! About The Author
I
n the moment you may see a mess, but there are very valuable opportunities to bond and grow with your children in the heart of your home, your kitchen! Depending on your child’s age, you can try healthier swaps or alternatives for foods they already enjoy. If they show interest in trying new things, include them in this discovery. For example: • For waffle or pancake lovers, pair with 100% maple syrup vs breakfast syrup. • When in season or available, offer servings of whole fruit before fruit juice. • If your family consumes canned foods, next shopping trip try to purchase your go-to’s packed in water vs syrup/juice. Try finding cans with no salt or sugar added. • When baking, introduce coconut flakes instead of sprinkles as a topping.
Courtney Fox is a nurse supervisor for the Bradley County Health Department. She recently ran and completed the Chattanooga marathon! She and her husband Cory Fox are raising two beautiful girls. She enjoys fitness and prays you will too.
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Gò0dNews for Kids
Hey Kids: Do These Four Things and Have a Happy Life
F
by Rodney Jones
irst of all, I want you to know that I feel really
the parents that you have because God gave them to you.
privileged to write an article for you. After all, Jesus
Remember that your parents will not always be right
told his disciples that He loves children so much,
when they make decisions that affect you. But they always
that He wants them to come to meet him. He even told his
have the God-given right to make those decisions. The
disciples that entry into the Kingdom of Heaven was only
Apostle Paul wrote to the churches at Ephesus and Colosse
allowed IF a person became as a little child (see Mark 10:15).
admonishing the children in those churches to obey their
Eternal salvation depends on simple faith, just like a child
parents in the Lord.
can have. Jesus wants you to come to Him. Trust in Him to
HUMBLING yourself comes next. This principle is
save your soul. Trust Him and tell Him that you trust Him.
vital in obtaining God’s help. The opposite of humility is pride and God hates pride. Of the six things listed in Proverbs 6:17 that God hates, pride is first on the list. In Proverbs 16:18 the Bible says, “Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.” Also, 1 Peter 5:6 says, “Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time.” King Hezekiah humbled himself and God turned away his wrath (see 2 Chronicles 32: 26). If you are lifted up with pride you assuredly will fall into the condemnation of the devil (see 1 Timothy 3:6). REALIZING that life is hard is last on our list. You will not always get your way. Most of the time you will not. Even though this article is a formula for happiness, you need to know that most happy
TRUSTING in God is the first and most important thing
and successful people have failed often. Failure happens to
that you have to do to have a happy life. Trust Him not
everyone. When you do fail, start again. Never, never, never
only for the salvation of your soul but trust Him each and
give up. The God we serve is a God of second, third, and
every day to take care of you and protect you. Realize that
even fourth chances! Remember, God used a murderer and
NOTHING at all in this world or the next can happen to you
an adulterer to write much of the Bible: the Apostle Paul and
UNLESS Jesus allows it to happen to you. And it will always
King David.
be for your good. OBEYING your parents is next on the list. In Exodus
Remember these four habits. Make them your daily habits. Using these day by day will lead you to a great future!
20:12 God commands all people to obey their parents. Commandment with a promise attached: “that your days may be long upon the land.” Obey your parents when it is easy and obey your parents when it is hard. You have
26 // February 2024
About The Author
It is actually the 5th Commandment and the only Rodney Jones is a retired police officer and is presently a housing and residence life staff member at the University of Tennessee, Chattanooga. Rodney is a member of Catoosa Baptist Tabernacle in Ringgold, Georgia.
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
When Is Love Not Love?
H
by Dr. Alan Hix
ow would you describe love? Recently, I came
would let me see my boy. If he loved me, why did he
across some comments on love by Margaret
take Michael away from me?” She also expresses, “I don’t
Atwood that are different than what we expect
believe in a God who keeps a mother and a son apart.
when someone writes about love. “This is a word we use
I believe in a God of love. No one has a right to come
to plug holes with. It’s the right size for those warm blanks
between me and my son. Not even God.”
in speech, for those red-hearted shaped vacancies on the
This picture of a mother’s love stands in stark contrast
page that look nothing like real hearts. Add lace and you
with that offered by Helen Steiner Rice:
can sell it.” These comments seem to reflect a somewhat
“A mother's love is something that no one can explain — It
jaded view of love.
is made of deep devotion and of sacrifice and pain. It is
One of my favorite authors is C.S. Lewis. In his book
endless and unselfish and enduring, come what may, for
The Great Divorce, he creates the story of an imaginary bus
nothing can destroy it or take that love away. It is patient and forgiving when all others are forsaking, and it never fails or falters even though the heart is breaking.” Rice’s picture of love finds its roots in 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 ESV: “Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing but rejoices with the truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.” Lewis’s story cautions us that our own human understanding of love can often be flawed and distorted by our own desires and expectations. Our relationships are
ride in which some of the inhabitants of hell are given the
so much more fulfilling when we look at them from the
opportunity to visit with some of their friends and loved
proper perspective.
ones who are in heaven.
The Apostle Paul gives us a picture of love that is
In one particular story, a mother who is a resident of
grounded in the character of God. This Valentine’s Day, let
hell hopes to meet her son who died at a young age, now
us move beyond the feelings about our love for others and
a resident of heaven. She is consumed by the desire to
discover how focusing on the needs of others opens us to
meet her son whom she idealizes. She envisions a future
rich relationships through which we can express the love
where they will be reunited, and she can carefully watch
of God.
Instead of her son, she encounters her brother. Disappointed, she exclaims, “If he [God] loved me, he
28 // February 2024
About The Author
over him.
Dr. Alan Hix is 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 on Hymns
Why I Love These Lyrics by Heather Guthrie
T
his is my favorite hymn for many reasons. The most important reason is that it is a continual reminder to give everything to Jesus. When these lyrics come to mind it's almost as though the hymn is being sung over me. Or when I sing it, it's like I'm talking to the Lord and He is responding back to me. Also, I feel
He’s telling me that He wants all of what is in my heart: the good, the bad, and the challenging, yes every bit of it. When a desire or promise comes to mind and a negative thought comes with it, this song reminds me to sur-
render it to the Lord, all of it. All means completely and He completely wants you and me. When we surrender to Him that is an act of trust. Who better to surrender all to than the Lord who loves you and me?
I Surrender All by Judson W. VanDeVenter
All to Jesus I surrender,
All to Jesus I surrender,
All to Him I freely give;
Make me, Savior, wholly Thine;
I will ever love and trust Him,
Let me feel Thy Holy Spirit,
In His presence daily live
Truly know that Thou art mine.
Refrain:
All to Jesus I surrender,
I surrender all, I surrender all;
Lord, I give myself to Thee;
All to Thee, my blessed Savior,
Fill me with Thy love and power,
I surrender all.
Let Thy blessing fall on me.
30 // February 2024
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Gò0dNews for your Taste Buds
Classic Baked Macaroni and Cheese A delicious macaroni and cheese recipe made with three types of cheese. by Pam Wattenbarger
Ingredients • 3 tablespoons butter • 3 tablespoons flour • 3/4 teaspoon salt • 1 1/2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce • 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard • 1/8 teaspoon pepper • 1 1/2 cups milk • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese • 1 cup gouda cheese • 1/4 cup mozzarella cheese • 8 ounces uncooked macaroni
Instructions 1. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Remove from heat when melted. 2. In a small bowl, stir together flour, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard. 3. Add the flour mixture to the butter, stirring until blended. 4. Gradually stir in the milk, stirring until blended. 5. Return the saucepan to low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture is thick and smooth. 6. Remove from heat and add the cheddar and gouda cheese. Stir the mixture until blended. 7. In a saucepan, cook macaroni as directed on package. Drain. 8. Mix cheese sauce into drained macaroni. 9. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. 10. Spray a 9” by 9” baking dish with cooking spray. 11. Add the macaroni mixture to the baking dish. Cover with foil. 12. Bake for 20 minutes. 13. Remove the foil and sprinkle the mozzarella cheese on top of the mixture.
About The Author
14. Return to the oven for 2-5 minutes or until cheese is melted.
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Pam Wattenbarger is the author of 3 cookbooks. You can find more recipes on her website, SimplySouthernMom.com.
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Gò0dNews Poetry
Prayers by Dorothy Teague
The songs that we sing, The prayers that we pray, Do not sit, they do not stay. But travel onward through time and space, Reaching the throne room by God’s grace. Oh, that the King of kings would care about me, To hear my cry on bended knees. And the miracle doesn’t stop there,
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About The Author
My prayers go on through eternity. 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.
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
A Mount of Blessing: Numbers 6:22-27 ver four centuries lapsed before Israel was freed from Egyptian bondage (Genesis 15:13). The lamb’s blood was shed (Exodus 12), the sea was crossed (Exodus 14-15), and deliverance was realized! Three months of desert travel follow, seeing divine provision (Exodus 16:1-17:7), divine protection (Exodus 17:8-16), and divine direction. Called into the wilderness to worship (Exodus 5:1), the multitude journeyed to Sinai (Exodus 19), where meeting the Giver took priority over entering the Promised Land, making Sinai the mountain of encounter. This is where Moses had engaged God - at a bush on fire that was not consumed (Exodus 3:2). His personal story became the corporate experience of his nation as they now stood before a flaming mountain, but it was not expended (Exodus 19). Spanning the next year, Israel received God’s laws and the blueprint for acceptable worship. Before departing this mount, the LORD instructed Moses on how and why Aaron’s family line of priests will bless the people (Numbers 6:24-26). Quoting the Almighty, they said: The LORD bless you and keep you: The LORD make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you: The LORD turn His face toward you and give you peace. The blessing’s ‘speech and results’ pattern echoes the creation account. Genesis 1 depicts the LORD of eternity addressing a dark void, commanding good things from nothing. With heightened anticipation at the efficacy of God’s utterance, the barren wilderness of Sinai is the initial setting for these world-making words. The blessing elicits faith in the One Who is without limits. At Sinai, Egypt lies behind, and Canaan awaits. Idolatry tested Israel’s spiritual metal, as these neighboring nations worshiped creation, not the Creator. God is the source of light and favor, not the natural elements (sun; Genesis 1). Isaiah (24:23) and John (Revelation 22:5) reiterate that when the sun ceases to shine, God will still be there. The blessing conveys a timeless worldview. The hallowed Name is vocalized in each of the three lines. Reverently voicing the singular, sacred Name emphasizes the Holy One’s majestic splendor. Israel’s relationship with one God stands in distinction to the
36 // February 2024
plurality of gods revered by other nations. The blessing shapes identity - God’s people are in a spiritually troubled world but are not of it or like it. Three pairs of benefits are petitioned: favor and security, approval and kindness, acceptance and wholeness. People need these qualities for healthy growth and fulfillment, but these features cannot be adequately appreciated apart from God. These words appeal to embracing life according to
the LORD’s instructions, abandoning contrary conduct that incurs judgment (Deuteronomy 28). The fruitful life of faith humbly receives what it needs (God’s goodness, protection, fellowship, affirmation, grace, and completeness) despite the recipient’s inability to return a gift in kind. The greater generously gives to the lesser, displaying the amazing covenant love of God! This blessing calls for holy humility. “And they shall put my name upon the children of Israel; and I will bless them” (Numbers 6:27). The Law at Sinai rendered due regard for God’s Name (Exodus 20:7). Set apart for Him, the people were to reflect the LORD’s holy character (Leviticus 11:44-45). Priestly fidelity among a faithful community would see the deepened closeness of the nation with God. His ministers are blessed, calling His people to purity by His gift of words – words of hope and commitment. Beautifully, then, the reason for meeting at this mount unfolds: God (the bridegroom) gives His Name to His bride (His people). About The Author
O
by Dr. Rob Debelak
Dr. Rob Debelak is Professor of Bible at Lee University. He has taught at Lee University for 29 years and is a veteran of the U.S. Air Force. He and his family reside in Cleveland, TN.
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Gò0dNews for Health & Fitness
Why Exercise Is Medicine for the Mind
M
by Thomas Morrison
ost people are motivated to begin working out for
get older. Ratey warns, “If your brain isn’t actively growing,
the health and appearance benefits for their bodies,
then it’s dying.” Exercise is the best fertilizer!
but the longer I work in this field the more I think
Defeating Depression and Anxiety
the greatest benefits of exercise may be for the brain. Indeed, working up a good sweat literally helps you build a bigger, better, happier brain. Let me show you how.
Pumping up the Brain Just like muscle and bone thin with age, our brains
“Anxiety in the heart of man causes depression, but a good word makes it glad” is an old proverb on a very common ailment. It seems the anxious mind, and certainly, the depressed one gets caught in a negative loop, locked in on itself without the seeming ability to work its way out. The
actually shrink with age too. The impact on speed of thought,
brain needs resiliency and adaptability to respond to stressful
memory, and learning can be profound. The good news is
new thoughts and circumstances in a positive manner. The
physical exercise, especially aerobic exercise, helps the brain by increasing blood flow, delivering vital oxygen and nutrients, and subsequently “pumping up” the areas of the brain that are involved in verbal memory and learning. Many studies have suggested that the parts of the brain involved in thinking and memory have greater volume in people who exercise than those who don’t. One study of healthy sedentary people aged 60-79 showed significant gains in brain volume only six months after beginning an aerobic exercise program. Importantly, those changes didn’t occur in the control group who weren’t doing aerobic exercise. The researchers concluded that the improved cardiovascular fitness was associated with fewer age-related changes in the brains of older people. That doesn’t mean we need to wait until we retire to get this brain benefit! Studies
infrastructure to make that happen is built with exercise!
with school-age children have found increases in physical
Remember, BDNF is released during exercise to protect the
activity improve learning and testing ability. This benefit was
brain cells and encourage their connectivity and growth.
so great it got the attention of Harvard psychiatrist John Ratey
One study of 30 depressed patients found that every one of
who was inspired to write Spark: The Revolutionary New Science
them had low BDNF levels. In another study, antidepressants
of Exercise and the Brain.
restored BDNF levels to normal, but exercise does the same. It
Miracle-Gro for Brains
also boosts serotonin, making it a natural antidepressant.
Ratey declares, “Exercise is the single most powerful
Kenneth Cooper, the “Father of Aerobics” says, “Exercise
tool you have to optimize your brain function.” And he says,
isn't just for the physically unfit. It's for the mentally unfit, too.
“Moving the body keeps the brain growing.” He calls exercise
I can recommend it for anyone who's depressed. If exercise
Miracle-Gro for the brain. Much like plant food makes plants
benefits the body, it can do wonders for the mind.” Truly, 100%
grow lusher, the chemical known as brain-derived neurotrophic
of people who exercise to the point of cardio-respiratory fitness
factor, or BDNF, stimulates the growth and proliferation of
will experience an increased sense of well-being. Is it time to
brain cells. This is especially true in the hippocampus, which is
start taking your medicine? Get moving!
Since this region is also more vulnerable to decay with old age, it is doubly important to maintain an exercise program as you
38 // February 2024
About The Author
the region of the brain that is largely responsible for memory. Thomas Morrison is the fitness coordinator and a personal trainer at Bradley Wellness Center in Dalton, Georgia, where he has served for the past 23 years.
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