Gò0dNews
Keep reaching for what makes you feel whole.
Surprises. Triumphs. Breakthroughs. For every moment when words just won’t do, we give it our all so you can, too. Because there’s a whole lot of life to love, and the joy’s worth the journey. As you strive for what makes you come alive, we’ll be here — seeing, hearing and helping you feel whole.
About Us
WRITERS
Dr. Alan Hix
Dr. Bobbie Jo Davidson
Brenda Dedmon
Brian Johnson
Chloe Boyd
David Huff
Garrett Nudd
Jan Merop
Kristen West
Mitch Jolly
Rick Hughes
Ruthie Bennett
Rodney Jones
Zebbie Brewster
SALES
Matthew Ruckman
423-503-1410
Email: goodnewstn@gmail.com
DESIGN
Caleb Prytherch
Email: art.goodnews@gmail.com
PHOTOGRAPHER
Melanie Abney
706-844-3818
GoodNews Rome
EDITOR/ARTICLE COORDINATOR
Sandra Gilmore
Email: articles.goodnews@gmail.com
PUBLISHER
Matthew and Bethany Ruckman
Cell: 423-503-1410
E-mail: goodnewstn@gmail.com
OFFICE
423-790-5378
WEBSITE
goodnewscm.com issuu.com/goodnewsrome
Hello
Friends,
We want to take a moment to tell you who we are and what we are about. Our names are Matt and Bethany Ruckman and we have six beautiful children, Brendon, Kailey, Andrew, Leah Jean, Emma, and Cooper. We live in Cleveland, Tennessee, and love what this town has to offer! We have started GoodNews Christian Magazine because we feel that when God, family, and community are combined, lives will be changed.
GoodNews Christian Magazine is a complimentary, Christian lifestyle publication. You can find us throughout the community in retail establishments, 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.
The Father Invites Us
by Mitch Jolly
The Father invites us to draw near to Him. There are two approaches to participating in a worship service. The first is to anyone who does not follow Jesus. Respond to His speaking to you today. The second is to those who do follow Jesus.
The Father can speak to you through a worship service in words, songs, Communion elements, and especially through His Word.
The question is: have you heard Him?
If you do follow Jesus, understand this: Since the heavens declare the glory of God and you have been raised to life, have eyes to see and ears to hear, you have an open invitation to worship in response to the continual stream of revelatory glory in all of creation. When we take time to marvel at creation, we are beginning to “tune our hearts to sing” and reflect back to the Lord how excellent He is in our mind’s attention and heart’s affection.
When we gather, don’t overlook the seemingly less “flashy” parts like the call to worship. Look with focus on the Lord’s grace to use ordinary means to invite us to communion with Him and His people.
Consequently, because the Lord is our audience, we must learn to put to death irreverence and lack of effort in our approach to worship. Our desire to make things convenient is not bad. It can inadvertently lead to a lack of recognition that we are being invited to sit with God, and that comes with some sense of protocol.
Example: What we’ve done in many evangelical circles is the equivalent of people wearing their underwear for casual Friday. Just because we can relax some things, it doesn’t mean we can cast off restraint or pretend protocol is unimportant. We don’t ask God to adjust and make it convenient for us. Jesus took on flesh, dwelt among us to die in our place for our sin, be buried, rise, and ascend to the Father to provide salvation for all who will believe. He’s already adjusted to save us.
Worship is the life we live. When we gather corporately, we tune up for living each day as a living sacrifice in communion with the Lord on mission. We must come to our churches ready to make every minute count.
Illustration: Football. If you never tackle in practice at full speed with pads on, you’ll be terrible on Friday nights. When we come to corporate worship, we should come prepared to practice like we intend to be a living sacrifice and make some disciples tomorrow morning.
How? Prepare your body and mind Saturday night for Sunday morning. Come looking for how the Lord is already at work. Develop an eye to spot the providential way the Lord places events and people. Be prepared to sit, be quiet when it’s time, consider others more important than yourself (There are 52 “one anothers” in the Bible), stand, move, sing, and be prepared for God’s Word to confront, encourage, and comfort us.
Worship is a joyful labor from us for the Lord to receive an offering of living sacrifices. Come determined to offer the Lord our mind’s attention and heart’s affection from the first conversation to the benediction. Come ready to love others by putting others before yourself. Recognize that if all come with the priority of serving others, then everyone will be served. But if we come to consume, some will serve while some will only take. Those who serve will be worn out and discouraged.
Learn to operate in the rhythm of responding to the initiative of the Lord. He’s inviting you.
Mitch Jolly resides in Rome, Georgia. He can be reached
for Good Neighbors
Take Care of Yourselves and Each Other
by Dr. Bobbie Jo Davidson
“Take care of yourselves and each other!”
That’s how Lester ends the NBC evening news.
This brings to mind two of my favorite Bible verses. The first is Psalm 23:1 KJV, “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.”
The second is Psalm 118:24 NKJV, “This is the day the Lord has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.” I cherish how the Lord takes care of me and that puts me in mind of folks who make the extra effort to take care of the folks around them.
Meet Oscar, my 90-year-old friend who also takes care of himself and others as much as he can. And he always does it with a smile. I’ve known him since elementary school. I am grateful for that friendship of many years. And I admire his intention to take care of others.
Oscar is a Marine veteran, a University of Georgia graduate, and a retired pharmacist in Rome, Georgia. He grows things and has been known to feed his corn to deer. He is a greeter at West Rome Baptist Church. He keeps up with his five children, 12 grandchildren, and 18 great-grandchildren! He knows all his neighbors. And he makes the best chocolate pie I’ve ever tasted!!
Last spring, his next door neighbor, a widow, asked him if he could get a log out of her yard that was half in the small lake where they live. It was larger than he was, so it was a very big challenge.
I’m not sure just how, but he did it. Then, he tied the log to his lawnmower and dragged it across to his yard where he disposed of it for pickup. Oscar has macular degeneration and is successfully being treated for that. I’ve never heard Oscar complain. He is a very positive person and has a terrific smile. And he loves people!
He and his wife, Jeanne, have been married 69 years as of January 2025. They eloped when she was 18 after going together for only two weeks! They had known each other in school. She was a preacher’s daughter. Together, they have blessed many lives for good including my own. Is Oscar retired? Yes, he is but only from the pharmacy. He’s still quite active, always smiling, and continues to help others!
Dr. Bobbie Jo Davidson, known to most as Jo, lives in Rome, Georgia. She enjoys writing and sharing about Jesus. She became
Leprechaun-a-thon
March 15
Bridgepoint Plaza
Sesame Street Live! Say Hello
April 26
Spring Art Market
April 5-6
Rome Civic Center
RoFlo Fest
May 3
Downtown Rome
• Mar 14: Marty Stuart & His Fabulous Superlatives Concert, City Auditorium
• Mar 30: Chonda Pierce: The Queen of Clean Comedy, City Auditorium
• Apr 18-19: Pirates of Penzance by RSO with the Rome Shakespeare Festival, City Auditorium
• May 2-4, 9-11: RLT presents Mystic Pizza, DeSoto Theater
Forum River Center Sign Up Now for Georgia’s
View Our Full Event List at
LMedicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period
Money Matters Rick Hughes with
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.
ast autumn, we wrapped up the Annual Election Period for Medicare. Now, we enter the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (MAOEP). Let’s explore how Part D (Rx) changes in 2025.
The MAOEP is an annual opportunity for individuals already enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan to make changes to their coverage. Beginning January 1st and ending March 31st here's what you can do during this period:
1. Switch to a Different Medicare Advantage Plan: If you're not satisfied with your current Medicare Advantage plan, you can switch to another plan that better meets your needs with different benefits, networks, or costs.
2. Switch from Medicare Advantage to Original Medicare: You can switch back to Original Medicare (Part A and Part B). You also have the option to add a standalone Medicare Part D plan for prescription drug coverage.
3. Changes Take Effect: Any changes you make during this period will take effect on the first day of the month after your new plan receives your enrollment information.
What You Can't Do During the MAOEP:
• Switch from Original Medicare to Medicare Advantage:
◦ This period is only for those already enrolled in Medicare Advantage. If you're in Original Medicare, you'll need to wait until the Medicare Open Enrollment Period (October 15 to December 7).
• Change Prescription Drug Plans:
◦ The MAOEP doesn't allow changes to standalone Medicare Part D plans. The Medicare Open Enrollment Period can be used for that.
Why Use the MAOEP?
• Flexibility:
◦ The MAOEP provides a chance to adjust your coverage if your current plan doesn't meet your needs.
• Cost Savings:
◦ You might find a plan with better benefits or lower costs. How is Part D Medicare going to work in 2025?
Medicare Part D will see several significant changes aimed at reducing prescription drug costs for beneficiaries. Particularly:
1. Out-of-Pocket Cap: Starting in 2025, there will be a $2,000 annual cap on out-of-pocket prescription drug costs. Once beneficiaries reach this cap, they won't have to pay anything outof-pocket for the rest of the year. This change is expected to help millions of people save money on their medications.
2. Closing the Coverage Gap ("Donut Hole"): The coverage gap, also known as the "donut hole," will finally close. Previously, beneficiaries had to pay 100% of their prescription drug costs once they reached the coverage gap. This amount has been gradually reduced to 25%, and in 2025, it will be eliminated entirely.
3. Monthly Payment Option: For the first time, Medicare Part D plans will offer beneficiaries the option to pay their out-of-pocket prescription drug costs in the form of capped monthly installment payments instead of all at once at the pharmacy. This can help make costs more manageable throughout the year.
4. Insulin Costs: Insulin prices will be capped at $35 per month for both Medicare Part D and Part B-covered insulin used with pumps. This is a significant reduction from previous prices and aims to make insulin more affordable for beneficiaries.
5. Plan Changes: Many Medicare Part D plans are merging or ending in 2025. Beneficiaries may need to review their current plans and consider switching to ensure they have the best coverage and costs for their needs.
These changes are part of the Inflation Reduction Act and are designed to make prescription drugs more affordable and accessible for Medicare beneficiaries. If you have any specific questions about how these changes might affect you, feel free to contact the Hughes Retirement Group.
for Men
Reacting to the Storm
by David Huff
The longer I walk with Jesus, the more I have come to respect the poem “Footprints in the Sand.” probably my favorite part is at the end of this poem: “I don’t understand why when I needed you the most you were not there. Jesus responded, “My precious child, I love you so much. When you only saw one set of footprints that is when I carried you.”
In the darkest nights and the heaviest of storms, when it seems like all else is fading and falling apart, Jesus is there to carry us. Not all storms are meant to cause havoc. Some storms are meant to disrupt life so that we will call upon the one who can calm the storm. Some storms are meant to burn off impurities that are separating us from the love of the Father.
As a husband and father, I have had many storms to blow into my life that have disrupted my peace, and left me screaming out to God, “Why are you not helping me?” The truth is He is right there in the storm with us. Matthew 8:25 NIV says, “So the disciples came and woke Him up, saying, ‘Lord, save us! We’re going to die!’” Now how many of us, if we responded honestly, would admit that we have done the same thing. If something doesn’t change, then this or that scenario is going to happen. Why, God, are you ignoring me and not helping me? We scream and cry out asking for help, but when things are going well, where is our devotion to God? Where is our heart with God? Do we talk to God in the same manner when things are going well as we do when we are in a storm? In verse 26 we receive an answer, “But He said to them, ‘Why are you so fearful, you of little faith?’”
In that simple phrase we receive an answer to many of the questions surrounding us: “Ye of little faith.” Do we have the same faith in the calm as we do in the storm? Fathers and husbands, we are the role models for our families. Tough times have and always will come but what faith are we showing our wives and kids? Do we stand upon the solid rock of Christ and scream at the storm, or do we allow the storm to crush us and take away our faith?
Whether you are a Christian or not, storms are going to come into everyone’s life. The way we react to them tells us
a lot about where our faith is. Life is not easy but as the head of the house we have to show our dependance and trust in God, and along the way God grows us into a more mature Christ follower. Storms will always happen; that will never change. What can change is how we react to the storm.
David Huff and his wife, Brittany, have five wonderful kids. Their family attends Rock Bridge Community Church Calhoun where David serves on the production team. David is a graduate of Liberty University and is currently studying for his MBA at Shorter University.
dNews for Women
The Gospel According to Four Women
by Rodney Jones
Long before God presented the Gospel by four men, Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, He presented it by four women. In Matthew Chapter 1, Matthew’s task was to prove that Jesus Christ had a legal right to the throne of David and was, in fact, the King of the Jews.
In proving his point, Matthew listed some 40 men but also included four women, which was unheard of. Genealogies listed male names only - father, son, grandson, and so on but with no mention ever of the mother. But Matthew included Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, and the wife of Urias.
Stranger still, all four women are Gentiles. (Canaanites, Hittites, Moabites) Gentiles are never listed in Jewish genealogies. Three of the four women were wicked. Tamar committed incest. Rahab was a prostitute. The wife of Urias committed adultery and her husband was murdered because of it. Ruth was a Moabitess. Although Ruth had no blemish on her character, the Moabites were cursed by God and forbidden to enter the congregation of the Lord.
Here is the Gospel by these four women: Tamar’s sin was so gross it should have kept her out of the royal line but it was the very thing that brought her in. She committed incest with her father-in-law and had twin boys. (Genesis 38:14-30) Her firstborn son was in the ancestral line of the Savior of the World. Salvation is for sinners only. Christ came into the world to save sinners (1 Timothy 1:15). To have eternal life, you must see yourself as God sees you; hopeless, helpless, undone, condemned. Rahab’s life was saved in a day of death and judgement by simply putting her faith in a scarlet cord (Joshua 2:18, 21). She put her faith in the promise of God. Salvation is by faith alone. “By faith the harlot Rahab perished not with them that believed not…” (Hebrews 11:31 KJV). She believed and lived and is in Heaven today. She had faith in the God of Israel. You are saved by FAITH in Jesus Christ. Ruth, a woman whom the law said COULD NOT enter the family of God, did that very thing. Shut out by the law
14 // March 2025
of Moses, (Deuteronomy 23:3) received by the MERCY of God. Ruth was saved by grace apart from the law (Ruth 2:12). Salvation is for those whom the law condemns. We all qualify. “…There is none righteous, no, not one” (Romans 3:10 KJV).
The wife of Urias—Her name brings to remembrance the awful sin of King David, so much so that Matthew was not even permitted to use the name “Bathsheba.” But no matter the sins of the saints, God will keep His promises forever. God promised David that David’s throne would be everlasting (2 Samuel 7:16). Salvation is everlasting. “… whosover… believeth in me shall NEVER DIE” (John 11:26 KJV). God keeps His Word despite the sins of men.
You are saved by faith in the sacrificial death of Christ on the cross. He died once for all people. Whosoever will, may come. His sacrifice is good forever.
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.
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 Creek Baptist Church 3219 Fosters Mill Rd SW Rome, GA 30161
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
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
Church of God
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
Church of God in Christ
Great Joy Church of God in Christ
60 Shorter Industrial Blvd Rome, Ga 30161
706-766-6148
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
Cornerstone Church 324 Mathis Dr
Rome, Ga 30165
Ministerios El Vino Nuevo
4216 Alabama Hwy NW
Rome, Ga 30165
706-291-0500
Renovation Church 13 Redmond Ct. Rome, Ga 30165
706-314-9084
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
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
Metropolitan UMC
700 Broad St
Rome, Ga 30161
706-291-8660
Mt Pleasant Church
4782 Alabama Hwy Rome, Ga 30165
706-232-4350
New Bethel Methodist Church
Reeceburg Rd Rome, Ga 30161
706-235-9700
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
Trinity By The River, Global Methodist 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
Cave Spring Church of God
19 Mill Street
Cave Spring, GA 30124
706-777-8348
Grace Fellowship Baptist Church
6635 Blacks Bluff Rd SW
Cave Spring Ga 30124
706-346-9786
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
dNews for Marriage
Bookends
by Jan Merop
The figures of a girl and boy reading a book in their laps delight me as they hold together several books and my Bible.
Bookends. One at each end gingerly doing their job silently. And adding a touch of charm to the display.
I like to think about marriage in that way, too. My husband Ken and I, like bookends, support each other and hold together all those things in between. When he is going through something disturbing, the Lord graciously enables me to lift him up. Encourage him. Present the glass half full as opposed to seeing it half empty.
On the other hand, when he is celebrating some accomplishment, I’m his biggest cheerleader ready to brag on him a bit to anyone willing to listen. And it goes both ways. When I first began writing, it took time for me to refer to myself as a writer. However, even though the written word was not his forte, Ken accompanied me to several writers’ conferences to encourage me. Gradually, he began enjoying it. Talking with new acquaintances, he gleaned ideas he could use to encourage me. In so doing, he supported me and helped me realize God’s calling on my life to write.
However, when we stepped into self-publishing a devotional book of some of my columns, we ran into seemingly insurmountable obstacles…including unfamiliar publishing lingo.
“I can’t do this!” I cried as he held me in his arms.
Then, an unusual thing happened. I heard a voice in my spirit as if it were audible say, “Yep!”
It startled me momentarily until I realized God was reminding me that I wasn’t leaning on Him, but on my own understanding as Proverbs 3:5 and 6 KJV warns us not to do, “Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.”
I squirmed out of Ken’s embrace and chuckled, relating to him what I’d just heard. So, Ken took me away for a weekend where I could seek the Lord away from the pressures. Clarity returned.
Our ‘bookend’ relationship has been like the dawn and setting sun wrapping up a day of beauty, joys, tears and everything in between.
Not long ago, the eclipse took place and everyone looked to the heavens to experience the moon covering the sun, a miracle of the heavenly realm.
However, God holds everything together daily as the sun rises in the east…brightening our day…to the sun setting in the west as we experience rest in the gentle close of the day.
Colossians 1:15 -17 NLT says, “Christ is the visible image of the invisible God. He existed before anything was created and is supreme over all creation, for through him God created everything in the heavenly realms and on earth…He existed before anything else, and he holds all creation together.”
What beautiful imagery of our lives is written in His book as He holds all things together supporting us, encouraging us and creating a thing of beauty and clarity. All kept by the bookends of His love and grace…a touch of His charming appeal on our lives like the miraculous bookends of the rising and setting sun. Selah.
Farming, Family, and Faith: Mathis Trailers & Equipment Sales
Mathis Trailers & Equipment Sales was established in Rome, Georgia in 2014. With sound success and sustained community presence, a sister store in Leesburg, Alabama was established in 2018. This company carries a full line of TYM tractors, Mahindra tractors, Club Car golf carts, Grasshopper mowers, P&T, Big Tex, Hillcrest, Cargo Craft trailers, Ironcraft, Bush Hog, and LMC equipment. As part of a growing business, you’ll also find a full parts department and mechanic shop.
Built on Life and Love
Owner Robert Mathis explains, “We’ve loved our jobs, and God has blessed Mathis Trailers, but the Mathis Trailer story actually began many years ago.”
The foundation of Mathis Trailers is built on the life and love of the Mathis family. In 1989, Sabrina and Robert Mathis began their lives together, having their first son, Zach, one year later, and their second, Ben, in 1993. During these years, they weren’t just building a family. Both Sabrina and Robert worked full-time jobs, and Robert sold trailers and miscellaneous items for an additional source of income.
However, in 1994, Robert decided to open a new family business, the Dykes Creek Farm Supply, with Sabrina
the day after Thanksgiving. Over the years, it became the community hardware store, selling hardware and animal supplies, feed, hay, animals, farm equipment, equipment parts, fencing, trailers, trailer parts, and more. As time passed, the business grew more and more until, in 2014, the business outgrew the original property.
Owner Robert Mathis continues, “After that, our family business became what we now know as Mathis Trailers & Equipment Sales. Now, we are privileged to serve families and businesses like our own in Alabama, Georgia, and other states. Today, our sons now work in our business. Zach is our service manager. Ben is our sales manager. We thank you for allowing us to serve you, and look forward to many more years together!”
Financing: Easier and More Affordable Than You Think
With multiple financing options as low as 0% on new equipment, the Mathis team will work with you to select the best and most economical choice. To start out, all you have to do is fill out a short form found on the website. A Mathis Trailers representative will get in touch with you to discuss your options.
Mathis emphasizes, “Rest assured, we've put measures in place to ensure your loan application and identity are secure, confidential, and safe from identity theft. We'll never provide your information to 3rd parties. Owning new or used trailers and equipment can be more affordable than you think.”
Comprehensive Service
Whether you’re looking for routine maintenance or need a specific service, the Mathis team is here for you. They are a TYM tractor, Mahindra tractor, Grasshopper mower, and Club Car dealer. They service any brand. When you visit the shop, you’ll meet with one of their skilled team members. They’ll review your problem or issue and give you a quote and a general timeframe for completion. With nothing further hindering you, you can take your equipment home and complete the work or project you need to do.
The parts department is essential for any equipment dealership to take care of our customers before and after the sale.
Mathis explains, “We take pride in having the best parts people on the planet! Do you need a specific part for your tractor, trailer, or other farm equipment? Let Mathis Trailers & Equipment Sales help. We provide parts for tractors, trailers, and implements for a large number of different brands. If we don’t have them in-store, we can source anything and have it ready for you in a jiffy. We are an authorized dealer for Mahindra tractors, TYM tractors, Grasshopper mowers, Club Car, Big Tex Trailers, P&T trailers, Hillcrest trailers, Cargo Craft, Homestead Trailers, Dexter Trailer Parts, Interstate Batteries, Bare-Co, Gardner, and many more!”
When the Mathis team says they care, they mean it. This team oozes customer focus and service. Have you seen the
blog on their website? You’ll find helpful information from tips about tractors to tips about improving your victory garden. The Mathis team truly wants to share in the success of their community.
Ready to Serve
Mr. Mathis extends the invitation, “Our family is ready to serve you in both Rome, Georgia, and Leesburg, Alabama. Come on in and pay us a visit to see our tractors, trailers, and equipment yourself, or you can give us a shout if you have any questions. What problem can we help you solve on your farm? We're excited to help y'all out. Here are the ways to contact us. For your general inquiries, ben.bransondeals@gmail.com or zach.bransondeals@gmail.com. And by phone, call our Rome store (706) 234-1807 or the Leesburg store (256) 526-7369. Look us up on Facebook and Instagram. We’ll be here to help y’all.”
for Seniors
A Heart’s Desire
by Zebbie Brewster
Have you ever desired something deep down in your heart and hoped that one day you could see it come to fruition? I graduated from college in 1977. I remember one of the classes I took in physical ed was creative dance. I loved it with all my heart! Our class in the gym gave us plenty of room to move around and really feel the music. I do remember that we had to take a song and lead the class in exercise to it. If I am not mistaken the Bee Gees were popular back then and so was the song “Staying
I am so thankful to God for the people He has allowed to come into my life who became friends. A friend is a gift you give yourself and the one who comes in when the rest of the world has gone out. Just thinking of that special friend can make you smile. You could say that to have a good friend is delightful! Webster defines delight as to give great pleasure, the source of pleasure, great satisfaction, or joy.
In studying my Sunday School lesson I was referred to look at the 37th Chapter of Psalm, A Psalm of David. I was encouraged to read the whole 37th chapter. The title in my KJV Bible says the chapter speaks of God’s lovingkindness and how the righteous are blessed.
Alive.” It seems just like it was yesterday that I was leading the exercise and thinking how much I loved doing it. I never thought that God would allow that heart’s desire to come to me in the winter season of my life. I am so blessed to get to instruct an exercise class for senior citizens. Our time together is such a blessing. I have learned so much from them. They always have wise words to share with me.
One day as I walked around the room before class trying to speak to everybody I overheard a beautiful lady bragging about her special friend. He had always been with her and His love had brought her through so much. She was bragging on Jesus. That made my heart smile for I know her special friend. He has been faithful to me also. Hopefully, we all have at least one special friend that we can brag on. I hope it, too, is Jesus.
Verse 3 says, “Trust in the Lord, and do good; so shalt thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shalt be fed. Delight thyself also in the Lord; and He shall give thee the desires of thine heart. Commit thy way unto the Lord; trust also in Him; and He shall bring it to pass. And He shall bring forth thy righteousness as the light, and thy judgment as the noonday.”
Look with me at Verses 23 through 25. “The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord: and he delighted in his way. Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down; for the Lord upholdeth him with his hand. I have been young, and now am old; yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging bread.”
Look even further ahead to verses 39 and 40. “But the salvation of the righteous is of the Lord: He is their strength in the time of trouble. And the Lord shall help them, and deliver them: He shall deliver them from the wicked, and save them, because they trust in Him.
The Psalmist David was truly bragging on His great friend Jesus. His words still encourage hearts today!
Zebbie Brewster resides in Summerville, Georgia. She is an active member at Perennial Springs Baptist Church.
Talking to Children about Death
by Brenda Dedmon
Death is a subject most people do not want to talk about, especially to children. Death is a reality in life and brings emotions that are often ignored or misunderstood. The story below explores ways to help children begin to understand ways to express those emotions. It affirms that it is ok to hurt, ask questions, and to find ways to remember the person you loved.
Kaden’s Camping Trip
It was a cool crisp day at the lake. The sun was coming up and the sky was a beautiful blue, orange, red, and
Lance was cooking their breakfast when Kaden told his dad that he missed his Papa. He said that even though he loved the sunrise it made him sad too. Kaden’s dad shared that memories may make you happy and sad at the same time. Lance said, “It is ok to feel sad and even cry. I miss hearing his corny jokes and his laugh.” Kaden replied, “He loved to play pranks on me. I miss hearing him laugh too.”
Kaden’s dad reminded him that Papa’s love would always be with them in their hearts. He said, “God loves Papa and He loves me and you. He will help us through these sad times. God sends His love through different reminders. The sunrise this morning was a reminder of His love and Papa’s love for us.”
yellow. Kaden and his dad Lance were on a camping trip. Lance had woken up early and started a fire to begin to prepare breakfast. As he sat by the tent drinking his coffee, he was amazed at the beautiful sunrise. He woke up Kaden so he could see the beautiful sky. Kaden was not too happy about being woken up early. Lance said, “Hey buddy, I thought you would want to see this beautiful sunrise.” Kaden smiled as he rubbed his sleepy eyes and replied, “Yes, I love all the colors and Papa would too.” Lance replied, “Papa loved camping and sunrises.” Kaden said, “It was his favorite and he was always happy to start his day seeing a sunrise.”
As they were eating, Lance suggested they look at the colors and think of a word that reminded them of Papa. “I will go first. When I see the blue, it reminds me of how he loved the blue water on the lake when fishing.” Kaden said the orange made him think of how Papa taught him how to juggle using oranges. They both laughed thinking about how the red reminded them of his old red truck that he drove around his farm. Lance said, “The yellow makes me think of how he lived a happy life and was always helping others. He loved God and wanted to tell others about God’s love,” A tear rolled down Kaden’s cheek as he thought about how special his Papa was to him. He knew he would always remember Papa’s love every time he saw a sunrise.
Rev. Brenda Dedmon, retired director, Children’s Learning Center, First Baptist of Dalton, and an avid Bama fan.
There’s a dusty dirt road off in some fields that looks like any other road of its kind in the South. But, it’s truly not the same. It’s not the length or the condition or the age of this road that makes the difference, it’s the destination. This road leads to hope. There’s hope along that dusty dirt road because Safe Haven Ranch for Boys is waiting at the end of it.
Jason Slaughter of Community Share Ministries describes the road building, “We are building roads to make room for what God’s got coming. We don’t know just who or just when but we know the children are coming. We know God’s got something He’s working on and we’re making room for it.”
The Safe Haven Boys Ranch is nestled in the former Corn family farm. The Corn family never raised children there. They raised animals and vegetables and eventually, they’ve raised hopes. The Corn family bestowed the farm into the care of Jason and Ginger Slaughter of Community Share Ministries who saw a vision for helping boys on a working farm throughout their childhood by providing a caring environment, a sound education both academic and practical, and a sense of true belonging in a community through a family both at home and a welcoming church family.
Jason continues, “We have been called by God to take care of the children who have known great suffering and
have no place to call home. Safe Haven Ranch is dedicated to demonstrating Christ's love by creating a nurturing environment for children who have known great suffering. Our mission is to address both the physical and spiritual needs of these children, providing them with the tools to overcome emotional and mental health challenges while sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ.
“We aim to inspire and instill hope in the children we serve, empowering them to grow and heal despite their difficult circumstances. Our organization believes in building a strong sense of community and providing a safe haven for children in need. Through our efforts, we strive to make a positive change in the lives of the children and families we serve, embodying the love of Christ in all that we do.”
Making a Difference
The Safe Haven Boys Ranch has plans to provide a long-term home to more than 70 children over its course, not including nine children who have already found their forever homes.
What Role Do You Play in Making a Difference?
Are you ready to make room, make a way, and make a difference? When you take the journey down the dusty dirt road to Safe Haven Boys Ranch you are immediately impacting children and nurturing not only the lives of these young people but the life of the community as well.
ò0 dNews for Kids
United by Friendship, Different by Design
by Chloe Boyd
Hello Children! I have a question for you: have you ever noticed how every boy and girl around you are all so different? Some are short; some are tall. Some are really good at sports, while others love to draw, read, or tell stories. Maybe you have a friend who is super quiet or another who is always making jokes! All of these little differences make life so much more exciting. God created each of us to be unique! Let's take a look at how we can learn to love and celebrate our differences—Just like Jesus did!
God Made Each of Us Special
Genesis 1:27 NIV says, “So God created mankind in His own image.” This means that each boy and girl has something very special from God inside! So, whether you have curly hair, straight hair, freckles, or dimples, dark skin, or light skin, God created you exactly how He wanted you to be. Every single person reflects a little bit of God’s creativity, like a wonderful piece of art!
Jesus Loves Everyone
One of the best things we can learn from Jesus is how to love everyone, no matter what they look like or where they came from. Jesus often spent time with people others ignored or did not like. He showed kindness to everybody because He knew each person was important to God. Jesus said, “Love each other as I have loved you” (John 15:12 NIV). That means we should love others with patience and kindness, the same way Jesus did!
Celebrate Each Other’s Talents and Differences
Romans 12:6 NIV says, “We all have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us.” Some kids are great at helping others, while others are wonderful at math or sports. God gave us different gifts to share, so we can help each other grow. When we see someone who is different, that is a chance to celebrate their unique talents and what makes them special! Being different is a gift from God, and He loves seeing us use our talents in our own unique ways.
How Can We Show God’s Love to Others?
Here are just a few ways you can practice loving and accepting others, just like Jesus does:
1. Include everyone: When you’re playing or working with others, invite everyone to join. Try to include kids who might be feeling shy or left out. That is one way to show that everyone matters.
2. Be kind with your words: Sometimes people say things that can hurt others feelings, even if they do not mean to. Think before you speak, and try to use words that uplift your friends, making them feel safe and happy.
3. Celebrate others’ talents: Maybe you have a friend who is really good at singing or drawing. Tell them you appreciate their talent. God loves it when you celebrate each other’s strengths.
4. Pray for a loving heart: Ask God to help you see others the way He does. You could pray something like, “God, help me to love others the way You love them and to see how special everyone is.”
Even though we are all different, we are all part of God’s family! He wants us to treat each other like brothers and sisters, no matter what. Isn't it amazing that God’s family includes people of all shapes, sizes, colors, and talents?
So remember: you are “fearfully and wonderfully made” (Psalms 139:14 NIV). So is everyone else. Let’s be friends who love and celebrate everyone around us, just as Jesus would!
Chloé Boyd is a Human Development major with a Business Emphasis at Lee University. She enjoys studying about culture and languages, and working with children of all ages.
for Everyone
We Become What We Worship
by Dr. Alan Hix
In Roald Dahi’s story of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, children are invited into the amazing world of Willie Wonka which is filled with rivers of chocolate, everlasting gobstoppers, and all manner of sweet delights. Among these children is a boy named Augustus Gloop. Obsessed with food, Augustus can’t resist the temptation of the chocolate river, and as he greedily gobbles up chocolate, he falls in the river and is swept away. This unfortunate accident is the result of his uncontrolled appetite. He literally becomes an example of the phrase, "You are what you eat." His desire for food drives his actions and, in the end, reflects a character that is defined by excess and indulgence.
This idea of becoming what we eat is not just a warning about gluttony; it also applies to what we spiritually consume. In a similar way, Psalm 135:15-18 ESV offers insight into the spiritual truth that we reflect what we worship. The psalmist writes:
“The idols of the nations are silver and gold, the work of human hands. They have mouths, but do not speak; they have eyes, but do not see; they have ears, but do not hear, nor is there any breath in their mouths. Those who make them become like them, so do all who trust in them.”
This passage highlights the futility of idol worship. The idols, crafted by human hands, are merely objects. They cannot see, hear, or speak. The psalmist warns that those who make and trust in these idols will become like them: lifeless, powerless, and spiritually empty. Just as Augustus Gloop was shaped by his appetite, so we are shaped by what we worship.
If we devote ourselves to lifeless idols—whether material possessions, status, or even the approval of others—we risk becoming spiritually lifeless ourselves. Our priorities, decisions, and character will reflect the emptiness of what we have chosen to put first in our lives. We become what we consume, and if our consumption is centered around things that do not bring life, we will find ourselves spiritually malnourished.
However, if we choose to worship the living God, we will reflect His life and character. Unlike idols, God is living,
active, and powerful. He speaks, sees, hears, and breathes life into us. When we worship Him, we are transformed in His image. In 2 Corinthians 3:18 NIV Paul writes,
“And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into His image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.”
Our transformation into the image of God is a process that happens as we continually seek Him, worship Him, and allow His Spirit to work in us. When we offer ourselves completely to Him, our lives begin to reflect His love, grace, and holiness.
Just as Augustus Gloop’s obsession with food led to tragic consequences, our obsession with lifeless idols can lead us away from the true source of life. But when we choose to worship the living God, we are filled with His life and transformed into His likeness. Our lives become a reflection of what we worship. So the key questions we should ask ourselves are: “What have I chosen to worship?” and “What am I allowing to shape my life and character?
May we be people who choose to worship the living God, allowing His life and love to shape who we are, so that we reflect His glory in everything we do.
Dr. Alan Hix is Professor of Christian Studies at Shorter University.
for Discovering More Your Everyday, Ordinary Life
by Garrett Nudd
Have you ever caught yourself scrolling through Facebook or Instagram and before you know it, an hour has passed? What began as a quick check-in on your friends ended in a rabbit hole of motivational speeches, inspiring auditions for American Idol, and dogs and cats doing funny tricks.
I’ll admit I enjoy social media, and I appreciate all the positives that social media provides such as discovering relatives I didn’t know I had and watching hilarious videos of people falling unexpectedly into swimming pools. But social media’s neverending highlight reel makes it easy to compare what others have and what others do, which can often lead us to feeling like our lives are mundane and insufficient. It may even lead to jealousy and contempt.
Early in the Bible we find the story of Joseph. I don’t know what Joseph put on his social media feed that triggered his brothers, but they had a strong feeling that he was their father’s favorite, so they threw him into a pit. Have you ever noticed that in most cases, those closest to the favorite rarely like the favorite? So, when Joseph went to check on his brothers while they were working in the fields, they roughed him up, and tossed him into a pit.
Really? Who does that? Talk about feeling less than.
A group of travelers came along, and in one of the worst judgment calls in history, his brothers sold Joseph into slavery. They agreed to tell their father that their little brother had died, and they made a pact to never reveal the truth. Imagine the jealousy that eventually turned to contempt and hatred that would result in something so sad.
I come from a family of brothers. We’ve had our occasional minor differences, but we’ve never considered tossing each other into a pit or selling one another into slavery. Or if we have, I haven’t been included in the plans.
Even as a slave, Joseph was a hard worker, honest, and trustworthy. Eventually he earned the attention and respect of Potiphar, captain of Pharaoh’s guard. Potiphar then promoted Joseph to serve as his personal assistant. From a pit to a promotion, that’s definitely MORE THAN.
The story has yet another twist. Eventually, Potiphar’s wife tried to seduce Joseph, but he refused her advances. To make a long soap opera short, Joseph was framed for a crime he didn’t commit and then imprisoned where he ended up interpreting the
Pharaoh’s dreams. He convinced Pharaoh that there would be a famine and he should store up enough grain to sustain Egypt through seven years of lean times.
As a young man, Joseph’s life was simple, but God had big plans—MORE THAN plans—for Joseph. Joseph’s life may have taken a dramatic turn for the worse multiple times, but his faithfulness positioned him to help sustain his people through several years of peril, and his commitment to God allowed him to save thousands of lives.
Years later, overcome by famine, Joseph’s brothers traveled to Egypt desperate for grain. Joseph recognized his brothers, but they did not recognize him. Before granting their request, he asked them to return home and bring their father and younger brother with them. Upon their return, he revealed his identity. He forgave his brothers for their misdeeds, and there was great rejoicing.
God had used the jealousy of Joseph’s brothers for one of the biggest MORE THAN experiences in all of Scripture. And He can use you too. Remember, when God gives you MORE THAN, He expects you to give MORE THAN so others can experience MORE THAN too.
You may not be thrown into a pit, sold into slavery, or framed for a crime you didn’t commit. In fact, I hope none of those things happen to you, but I guarantee God can take your everyday, ordinary life and turn it into MORE THAN.
Garrett Nudd serves as director of communications for AdventHealth Georgia. His
Gò0 dNews for your Taste Buds
No-Bake Lemon Icebox Pie Recipe
This year Pi Day is March 14, 2025. Celebrated by math enthusiasts around the world, Pi Day honors the mathematical constant π (pi). It's observed on March 14th (3/14) since 3, 1, and 4 are the first three significant digits of π.
Celebrate Pi Day with this refreshing and easy-to-make No-Bake Lemon Icebox Pie. This zesty dessert is perfect for a quick and delightful treat, requiring minimal ingredients and effort.
Ingredients
For the crust:
• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the filling:
• 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
• ½ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 3-4 lemons)
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream, whipped to stiff peaks
Instructions
1. Prepare the crust:
• In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly moistened.
• Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish. Use the bottom of a glass or a measuring cup to compact the crumbs.
• Refrigerate the crust while preparing the filling.
2. Prepare the filling:
• In a large bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Mix until well combined and the mixture starts to thicken.
• Gently fold the whipped cream into the lemon mixture until fully incorporated and smooth.
• Pour the filling into the chilled crust, spreading it evenly.
3. Prepare the topping:
• In a large bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
filling. Garnish with lemon slices
• Refrigerate the pie for at least 2-3 hours, or until set. The longer it chills, the better the flavors
Today Lord
May my prayer be set before You like incense…(Psalm 141:2 HCSB)
by Kristen West
Today Lord…
I choose to serve You and lay down my life. I love You and worship You with every breath that is in me.
Help me remember that You are good – all the time; in every circumstance.
When I don’t know where to turn or what to do, I choose You.
You are God; I am not.
Today Lord…
I give you my heart, my life, my family, and my deepest longings.
You know me better than I know myself. You see my worries, fears, failures, and pride. Forgive me for all the times I’ve clung to my sin instead of to You.
I surrender everything to You.
Today Lord…
Let my life positively impact those I meet. Let them glimpse eternity in me.
Let my words, my actions, my silence, and my tone all point to Jesus.
The Hope of the world. The Source of abundant life.
Today Lord…
I lay down my prejudices and my biases. I release the notion that things have to go my way. I don’t have Your perfect vantage point.
I am ignorant of how Your divine wisdom is beautifully at work.
I defer to Your omniscience.
Today Lord…
Take my brokenness and redeem it. Use it in a way that brings You glory.
Help me see those who feel unseen and invisible.
Let me be a conduit of love.
Let me be a vessel of Your truth and grace.
Today Lord…
My life is a prayer. I pour it out.
A living sacrifice. Let it be acceptable to You. Amen.
for Everyone Changing My Perspective
by Ruthie Bennett
After my dad passed away in November of 2013, I struggled with finding hope in God. I questioned, “Why did this happen to me” quite often. For years, I couldn’t understand why God had taken something so precious to me and many others. I don’t think his idea was to take him away from me specifically, but to give my father a life of bliss, away from the pain he was enduring each day. It’s all about perspective; changing the way you look at things can have an impact on the way you live everyday. Losing my dad was fatal, and it changed the way I saw things. I felt hopeless for many years, and felt myself drifting away from God. It was as if our connection was being cut with a knife, and there was no coming back to the relationship we once had.
during hard times, but something I’ve learned is that He is the one you need to turn to when you feel like you can’t go anywhere else. I felt stuck in my own mind for a while, not wanting to get out of the comfort of my depression. Feeling like I was beyond repair, I came home to the only one who could fix me. I prayed, begged, and pleaded with God to mend my broken heart.
If you’ve ever had a heart to heart with God yourself, you may know what it’s like to hear Him calling to you. I heard him say, “I’m glad you found your way back, my child.” God is willing to try if you’re willing to come forward and give yourself to Him. Even now on the days that I feel nothing will get better, I remember how my therapist, Natalie, told me I was a child of God and I was handcrafted by Him. I’ve struggled with keeping God and Christianity a constant in my life, but God didn’t create me with perfection in mind. Those days I stray away, I always find my way back. I always do. God has this magnetic pull, and it’s overwhelming in a good way. I’m still learning. I still mess up, and I’m not perfect. Yet, with God in mind, I can continue on the righteous path. I’m writing this to tell anyone reading that you can have bad days, go through hard things, and still be valuable to God. He won’t turn you away because of what you’ve been through, simply because His own people did that to Him.
I then had a dream about a year or so after the passing. The back door of my childhood home had opened, and there was a light shining so bright it almost hurt my eyes. I saw my dad walking through the door with Jesus right behind him. There wasn’t much more to the dream other than their quick appearance, but it told me everything I needed to know. My dad was granted access into the great heavens, and I could only imagine his arrival when he got there. I know we all struggle with drifting away from God
Psalm 34:17-20 NIV “The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them He delivers them from all their troubles. The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. The righteous person may have many troubles, but the Lord delivers him from them all; He protects all his bones, not one of them will be broken.”
Ruthie Bennett has recently been sharing with more people about her experiences with Christianity and her journey since her dad passed away many years ago. She writes to uplift those who are struggling, and to share how her grief turned into something more productive.
for Health & Fitness
How’s Your Workout?
by Brian Johnson
Itry to work out often because I want to be around for my family and my grandkids. I also play drums during church services. It can be difficult to keep up during fast songs if I’m not in decent shape.
Occasionally, I don’t feel like exercising. I do because I know it’s good for me. Philippians 2:12 KJV says, “Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.” What does it mean to “work out your own salvation”?
First, understand it has nothing to do with working to get saved or keeping your salvation. Paul pointed out that we’re saved by grace through faith, not of works (see Ephesians 2:8-9).
He also pointed out that if we were able to gain salvation on our own, Christ died in vain (see Galatians 2:21).
To work out your own salvation has nothing to do with your beliefs. We continue to hear about individual’s truths today which makes it difficult to know what’s correct. If I live according to my truth and you live according to yours then who’s to say who is right or wrong?
In the medical field, there’s something called Anatomical Position. It’s defined as standing erect, arms extended, palms facing forward. One of the purposes of this position is to give the entire medical community a standard. Our standard as Christians is the Bible. It is a universal truth (see John 17:17)!
What was translated “work out” is the same word that was used to describe reaping absolutely everything you could from a harvest or to get every ounce of ore from a mine. The same is true about your salvation: reap everything you can from your relationship with God.
Have you heard someone say, “Don’t forget leg day”? If not, that’s a phrase that describes someone who loves to work out their upper body, leaving their legs not as developed. What in your Christian life is there that you don’t like to do that stunts your growth?
• Maybe you don’t like to read your Bible. That’s a problem because, not only are we supposed to read it, but we’re supposed to study it (see II Timothy 2:15).
• Prayer? I Thessalonians 5:17 KJV says to “Pray without ceasing.” Also, when we pray and give our requests to God, He can give us peace that passes understanding (see Philipians 4:6-7).
• Scripture memorization? Hiding God’s word in our hearts can keep us from sin (see Psalm 119:11). It allows us to meditate on it no matter where we are (see Joshua 1:8).
• Witnessing? You might have a fear of rejection or you’re just shy. Regardless, Jesus told us to do this in all four of the Gospels and Acts as well.
Being in good shape involves three things: physical strength, aerobic fitness, (meaning you can walk up a flight of stairs without being out of breath), and having good flexibility. Understand that God will stretch you to make sure you’re in good shape.
God is going to take us through a process of conforming us to the image of His son (see Romans 8:29). He can do this by stretching us with trials. Although trials may be difficult, God promises us that we’ll be perfected (complete), established, strengthened, and settled after the trial (see I Peter 5:10).
Just like we’re at different levels of physical fitness, we’re also at different levels of spiritual maturity. That’s why you must “work out your own salvation.”
So, how’s your workout?
Brian Edward Johnson is a pastor at his church, nurse and author of Behaving Wisely, One Man’s Journey from Betrayal to Blessing. He longs for Christians to trust God for every aspect of their lives.
“WE love IT HERE!”
our
There are so many reasons to love living at The Spires, a stunning lakeside senior living community immersed in the vibrant campus culture of Berry College. A 27,000-acre backyard full of walking paths, wildlife and breathtaking views. A state-of-the-art fitness center offering everything from cardio drumming to water fitness. A bustling music scene where you can sing, dance or jam to your heart’s content. And the peace mind of a full continuum of care if further assistance is ever needed.
What our residents are saying:
“I’ve enjoyed making new friends and the staff is unbelievable from top to bottom.” — Dr. Woody Davis, Resident
“People here have been intensely supportive, and they mean it. It’s been a happy serendipity.” — Ann Marie Hollomon, Resident
“I think the best way I can describe the experience here is ‘community’ and I just give thanks. The opportunities are just endless for people to connect.” — Dr. Jennifer Barbieri, Daughter of Resident
“For social, emotional, mental and physical wellbeing — everything I need is here. It’s just been amazing the way our community loves each other.” — Julie Wahtola, Resident
Come see for yourself — we think you’ll love it here, too. Call 706-524-0600 or visit RetireAtBerry.com to schedule a personal tour.