Gò0dNews May 2020
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Christian Magazine
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ROME
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Andrew Lee Bill Fortenberry Catherine Tyler Charles Howell Dave Carringer Jennifer Cobb Jimmy Bryant Kaye Stein Linda Tinney Mary Anderson Beard Megan Van Meter Miriam Little Reagan Marsh Susan Lavigne Suzanne Hooie Zebbie Brewster
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Hello Friends, We want to take a moment to tell you who we are and what we are about. Our names are Matt and Bethany Ruckman and we have six beautiful
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GoodNews Christian Magazine because we feel that when God, family, and community are combined, lives will be changed. GoodNews Christian Magazine is a complimentary,
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EDITOR
throughout the community in retail establishments,
David Thompson
churches, restaurants, and more. Our magazine opens
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Matthew and Bethany Ruckman Cell: 423-503-1410 E-mail: goodnewstn@gmail.com
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Contents M AY 2 0 2 0
GoodNews from the Pastor’s Desk
6 The Significance of Church
Membership In God’s Eyes
GoodNews for Everyone
26 Learning To Rest by Susan Lavigne
GoodNews for Parents
GoodNews for Everyone
by Linda Tinney
by Miriam Little
8 Encouragement For Parents GoodNews on Money Matters
10 Being a Good Steward by Andrew Lee
GoodNews for Men
12 Take Captive Every Thought by Bill Fortenberry
GoodNews for Women
14 The Heart of a Servant by Suzanne Hooie
GoodNews for Mothers
18 What Does Mother’s Day Mean To You?
by Megan Van Meter GoodNews for Everyone
20 If You Do It Unto One of The Least of These
by Jimmy Bryant GoodNews Cover Story
22 S&A Landscape Service GoodNews for Health & Fitness
24 CBD Products—What’s All
The Buzz? Oh, Wait—There’s Not One
28 Finding My Purpose GoodNews for Everyone
30 Cherish Your Time by Catherine Tyler
GoodNews on Finances
32 Will You Always Have A Car
6
Payment?
by Charles Howell GoodNews for Mothers
34 A Mother’s Call To Arms by Kaye Stein
GoodNews for your Taste Buds
36 Fish Florentine
by Mary Anderson Beard
GoodNews for Everyone
38 How Should Christians
Respond to the Coronavirus?
by Reagan Marsh
22
GoodNews for Everyone
40 Pine Cones
by Jennifer Cobb
GoodNews for Everyone
42 Finding Peace
by Zebbie Brewster
by Dave Carringer
42
Gò0dNews from the Pastor’s Desk
The Significance Of Church Membership In God’s Eyes
(Matthew 16:18, 28:18-20; Romans 6) Upon Our Scriptural Faith Response To The Gospel… 1)…We Are Members Of Christ’s Body (1 Corinthians
an appropriate image for the Church because of the purity
12:12-14; Ephesians 1:22-23). The Church Christ established
of behavior, intent, and love of those who follow Christ
did not have its origin in the minds of mere humans. It’s a
(Ephesians 5:23ff). It’s not only an honor, but it’s also a wonder!
divine, spiritual organism: alive and growing as people from
Sin had rendered us impure and undesirable. Yet the groom
anywhere, everywhere, come to Christ to guide their hearts and
purifies His bride with truth and keeps her in sanctified status.
lives. As body members, we belong to each other. We depend
5)…You Are Citizens In Christ’s Kingdom (Colossians
on each other. As a member of the body, contributing to the
1:13). From sinner to saint! If not for God, that would be
body’s health by our function, the Church remains strong and
impossible (Matthew 19:26)! He can redeem, renew, restore,
continues growing.
reconcile, justify, and sanctify us! In this era of Christ, upon our baptism, His blood redeems us and translates us into the Kingdom. As Kingdom citizens, this places us in prestigious company: the redeemed throughout the ages. More than that, we are heirs of the Kingdom because… 6)…We Are Children In God’s Family. Baptism is the birthing moment for a child of God. Just as children bear the physical traits of their parents, children of God also are to take on, reflect, and represent God (His character) in all they do (Galatians 3:26-27). 7)…We Are Branches On The Vine: Christ (John 15:1-8). Frankly, if I sever myself from Christ (the source my spiritual siblings are also attached to), I will die! However, if I stay
2)…We Are Workers In The Lord’s Vineyard. Jesus’ parable in Matthew 20:1 reminds us of the honor to be chosen
connected to Him, I will be blessed with spiritual fruit. I must dwell in Him and let Him dwell in me.
by our Lord, the joy we have serving Him, and the delight we
8) …We Are God’s Dwelling Place. God demonstrated
share with all who join the Lord’s work. We serve because of
His presence with the Israelites in many ways. In these days
our love for God’s love for us.
of redemption through Christ, God doesn’t just own me—He
3)…We Are Living Stones In The Spiritual Temple Of
takes up residence within me. What an honor! “Therefore
God (1 Corinthians 3:16; 1 Peter 2:5). Historically, the temple
glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s”
represented the presence of God among His chosen people.
(1 Corinthians 6:19-20).
Many Jews were quite arrogant in their use of it, making
9)…We Are Protected By God (1 Peter 3:12): “The Lord
Gentiles feel unworthy to worship God. Imagine the thrill in
[watches] over the righteous.” “[Put all] your cares upon him;
their hearts (and ours) when we learn that Jesus says He wants
because he cares for you” (1 Peter 5:7). “Be anxious in nothing;
each of us to be LIVING STONES that build up the very temple
but [always be thankful as you petition God in prayer.] And
through which God is praised.
[His indescribable peace] shall keep your hearts and minds
4)…We Are Married To Christ. The Apostle John was given a revelation of Heaven. He says that seeing the redeemed
through Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6-7). 10)…We Have God’s Provision. As we prioritize the
of all the ages was “like a bride who’s been adorned for her
righteousness of God, He will meet our needs (Matthew 6:33). God
husband” (Revelation 21:2). The bride of Christ is
can make all grace abound toward us. He will always provide all
6 // May 2020
we need to do every good work (2 Corinthians 9:6-12).
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Gò0dNews for Parents
Encouragement For Parents
P
by Linda Tinney
arenting is not for the faint of heart. Parenting is hard,
who live as we do.” Not only is this an example from child
y’all! However, it is the single most rewarding job that
to parent but also child to friend, parent to child, parent
is out there. Every day, we are faced with multiple
to friend, and on and on. We can all use a little pushing to
decisions. I heard somewhere that a mom’s brain is like
become a “better” Christian, a more “present” parent, etc.
having 15 windows on your computer open. Did I sign the
Lastly, we as parents need to be willing to provide
permission slip? Did I pack enough food in the lunch bag?
for our children—not only financially, but providing love,
Did I wash the sports jersey for the game?
advice, discipline (as badly as we hate to!), and support.
When we were growing up, we never knew the things
One of my favorite evangelists, Billy Graham, said this: “The
our parents worried about at any given time. They sure did
family should be a closely knit group. The home should be
a good job of hiding it—at least mine did! In the whole scheme of life, daily tasks are not life/death situations. The things I want our child to remember are some of the same things that I remember—going to church every Sunday, praying every night at bedtime, having “present” parents, spending time with extended family, vacations, and the list goes on and on. Our world has certainly changed since I was a young girl, but the concepts are the same—love each other, contribute to society, and enjoy every day. However, I don’t live in a fantasy world, and I know things are not always 100% peachy; we try as parents to do the best we can with the help of God’s Word.
a self-contained shelter of security; a kind of school where
The Bible has lots to say about parenting. Try doing a
life’s basic lessons are taught; and a kind of church where
Google search for “Bible verses about raising children.” You
God is honored; a place where wholesome recreation and
will see thousands of articles and links to many Christian
simple pleasures are enjoyed.”
sites. The bottom line in parenting is God wants us to love
So, when you have had a day where you wanted to give
our children, teach them about Him, and eventually, lead
up, just remember there is always someone watching and
them to our Creator.
depending on you. God gave you your child as a gift, and
In our household, we are firm believers in leading by
it’s up to you to provide the environment for the child to
example. Both my husband and I were raised in Christian
thrive in—and it’s okay to ask for help. Remember, it takes a
homes, and we are doing the best we can to teach our son
village to raise a child.
together in following my example, brothers and sisters, and just as you have us as a model, keep your eyes on those
8 // May 2020
About The Author
how to live as a Christian. Philippians 3:17 says, “Join Linda Tinney is employed as a career transitions specialist at GNTC. She is wife to Neil and mom to Chason, a 5th grader She attends The Church at Rome.
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Being a Good Steward MONEY MATTERS
WITH DR. ANDREW LEE Dr. Andrew Lee is professor of English at Lee University. He also serves as a coordinator for Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University. He and his wife Esmerelda have three children.
O
n March 18th, just as most of us were starting to “shelter in place” with the coronavirus spreading, I tuned in to the Dave Ramsey radio show. It happened to be during the “Millionaire Theme Hour,” when Dave talks to actual millionaires whose net worth was over one million dollars. One particular story I heard during this episode was unforgettable. Here’s how it started: a forty-seven-year-old man called into the show. What’s his net worth? $12.7 million dollars. How did he acquire this money? In a highly unusual and tragic way. One of his older sisters had died in a horrible house fire, and with the settlement from the subsequent lawsuit, he had received $1 million dollars at age fifteen. His mother and other older sisters put the million dollars into a “Trust” with attorneys and financial advisors managing the money for him. He wouldn’t be able to access the million dollars until he turned twenty-five. During those ten years, from age fifteen until age twenty-five, he received only $200 as a monthly allowance. He turned twenty-five in 1998, and by that time, his $1 million dollars was worth $3 million. How did this happen? The short answer is this: it happened as a result of the love and thoughtful concern of his mother and other sisters who were wise enough to (1) put the money into a Trust so he couldn’t access it until age twenty-five and (2) hire skilled and conscientious attorneys and financial advisors to manage the money for them. During the ten years waiting period between fifteen to twenty-five years old, the trustees invested the money into stock mutual funds, and from time to time they purchased shares in new and growing companies such as Microsoft, Amazon,
10 // May 2020
and Google. The young man’s friends, being normal teens, encouraged him to go on a spending spree for his twentyfifth birthday. “Buy an Italian sports car!” they said. “Buy a boat! Buy a mansion!” But, as he described on air during this live radio show, he felt too guilty since the money was a result of his sister’s horrific death in the fire. So, he didn’t spend any of it, but instead kept it invested. One of his older sisters noticed his anguish and encouraged him to donate that first $1 million dollars to a worthy cause, so he did just that. At age twenty-five, he immediately donated one million dollars to a critical care burn unit at a local hospital in honor of his dead sister. And the remaining $2 million dollars kept growing and growing. Since that first million-dollar donation which was twenty-two years ago, this man has spent nothing else from the money he received in the settlement. But he has continued to make generous donations from that money to hospital burn units across the country, and today the money has grown to nearly $13 million dollars. Today, at age 47, this man makes a fine living earning $170, 000 as a senior-level information technology specialist, and he intends to donate most of his trust money that he received from his sister’s tragic death. He ended his call by breaking down into tears and reminding listeners not to take life for granted and to cherish every moment with loved ones because we have no idea if today may be our last here on earth. Because his family was wise enough to plan ahead, this man will do immeasurable good for countless others with the wealth he was blessed with--a good steward of the Lord. “To whom much is given, much will be required” (Luke 12:48b).
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Gò0dNews for Men
Take Captive Every Thought hen Moses commissioned 12 spies to check out Canaan, the land that God had promised to them, two of them, Joshua and Caleb, returned confident that the children of Israel could take possession of the land THAT GOD HAD PROMISED THEM. Don’t miss that point. This wasn’t just any old land. This was God’s people acting on God’s promise. BUT Israel didn’t go forward. Why? Despite the promise of God, despite Caleb and Joshua, and despite the fact that
the land flowed with milk and honey, the majority of the spies returned with fear in their eyes and defeat in their voices. They had focused on the inhabitants of the land rather than the God who gave it to them. Their words in the 13th chapter of Numbers reveal a truth that haunts men and women alike. “And we seemed to ourselves like grasshoppers, and so we seemed to them.” The 10 scared spies didn’t see themselves as handpicked explorers or children of God. They saw themselves as grasshoppers. Grasshoppers! Because of that negative
12 // May 2020
perspective, that fear, that comparison to the residents of Canaan, the people of Canaan saw them as grasshoppers too. In other words, it didn’t matter that they were anointed. It didn’t matter that they were handpicked by God. It didn’t matter that God has promised them this land. Israel turned their back on all that and failed to take hold of the promise given to them. Their fear took root and spread to their hearts. The damage was done. Someone’s anxiety sparked a flame of fear that spread among the spies until all but two of them lost their confidence in themselves and in God. They did not take their thoughts captive. Men, we have to be strong in our minds. Why do you think that part of the armor of God is the helmet of Salvation? We have to know who our Redeemer is, and we have to see our circumstances and our opportunities through His eyes. Nearly 2,000 years after Israel missed their first opportunity to take possession of the promise God had given them, God’s people were still having trouble with their minds. Here’s the advice Paul gave to the Corinthians: “…and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ” (2 Corinthians 10:5b). Your mind is a battlefield. You have an enemy who is seeking to steal, kill, and destroy (John 10:10, 1 Peter 5:8). He would have you to believe that you are a powerless grasshopper in a land full of giants. You are not. If men are to be the strong spiritual leaders that we are called to be, we have to take our thoughts captive and remind ourselves of our true identity. You are not a grasshopper. “But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light” (1 Peter 2:9).
About The Author
W
by Bill Fortenberry
Bill Fortenberry worked 17 years as a newspaper reporter, editor and columnist, and has worked in healthcare communications since 2001. Bill serves as the chairman of the board of managers of Haven Health Clinic for Women and is a men’s ministry leader and small group facilitator at his church, HBC Rome. He and his wife, Lisa, have two children, Ethan and Autumn. A storyteller at heart, Bill writes an occasional blog at kudzudad.blogspot.com.
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Gò0dNews for Women
D
The Heart of a Servant by Suzanne Hooie
o you have a servant’s heart? The definition of a
a messenger greater than the one who sent him. Now that
servant is a person who performs duties for others,
you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them.”
especially a person employed in a house on domestic
Jesus doesn’t just tell the disciples how to be a servant
duties. Does this sound familiar to you? Does it describe
but he completely humbles himself to the position and
what you do for others? As women, we often find ourselves
posture of a servant to demonstrate how they should treat
serving others in a multitude of ways. You may find yourself
others. We know that the washing of feet was a task that
being a caregiver to children, aging parents, spouses,
was performed by the very lowest servant and wasn’t ever
extended family and the list can go on and on.
performed by a Hebrew slave.
What kind of heart do you find yourself serving with? Do you do it with a happy and eager attitude or with a sense of obligation? Let’s look at scripture from the 13th chapter of John where Jesus gives us the perfect example of what a servant’s heart looks like. The setting is Jesus and his disciples at the last supper. Their meal ends and Jesus takes a towel and wraps it around his waist and washes the feet of all his disciples. John 13:6 -17, “He came to Simon Peter, who said to him, “Lord, are you going to wash my feet?” Jesus replied, “You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand.” “No,” said Peter, “you shall never wash my feet.” Jesus answered, “Unless I wash you, you have no part with me.” “Then, Lord,” Simon
So why would Jesus choose this as one of the last things
Peter replied, “not just my feet but my hands and my head
he teaches his disciples? The heart and attitude of this act
as well!” Jesus answered, “Those who have had a bath need
of service still speaks volumes to us today. A true servant’s
only to wash their feet; their whole body is clean. And you
heart must remain tender, open and compassionate. That’s
are clean, though not every one of you.” For he knew who
easier said than done, right? We get tired and weary of
was going to betray him, and that was why he said not
constant demands and endless tasks. A servant’s heart is
everyone was clean. “When he had finished washing their
something we have to spend time with the ultimate teacher
feet, he put on his clothes and returned to his place. “Do you
daily to achieve. The good news is that we get new mercy
understand what I have done for you?” he asked them. “You
and grace each day to help us achieve the true heart of
call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and rightly so, for that is what I
a servant. In Jesus, we see the perfect model of humble
am. Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your
service. Lord, help us to be like him.
an example that you should do as I have done for you. Very truly I tell you, no servant is greater than his master, nor is
14 // May 2020
About The Author
feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you Suzanne Hooie serves as the minister of missions and community at the First Baptist Church of Dalton. Suzanne and her husband, Sherrel, have two grown children, John and Lauren.
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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
16 // May 2020
706-291-7790 East Rome Baptist Church 601 Cedar Ave Rome, Ga 30161 706-234-8553 East View Baptist Church 901 Kingston Ave Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-8250 Emmanuel Baptist Church 1414 Old Dalton Rd Rome, Ga 30165 706-232-3939 Enon Baptist Church 3105 Turkey Mountain Rome, Ga 30161 706-295-5052 Fairview Baptist Church 2348 Old Cedartown Hwy SE Lindale, Ga 30147 Fellowship Rome Baptist Church 314 Burnett Ferry Rd Rome, Ga 30165 706-234-9416 First Baptist Church 100 E 4th Ave Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-6850 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 Sherwood Forest Baptist Church 1 Goodman Rd
Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-6174 Shorter Avenue Baptist Church 1410 Shorter Ave Rome, Ga 30165 706-234-8266 South Broad Baptist Church 508 South Broad St Rome, Ga 30161 Spring Creek Baptist Church 2636 Chulio Rd SE Rome, Ga 30161 706-234-1220 Springfield Baptist Church 113 Smith St Rome, Ga 30161 706-295-7217 Thankful Baptist Church 935 Spider Webb Dr Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-8132 Three Rivers Church 2960 New Calhoun Highway NE Rome, Ga 706-766-0942 Trinity Baptist Church 1728 Calhoun Rd NE Rome, Ga 30161 706-295-3368 Turner Chapel Baptist Church 756 Turner Chapel Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-235-8682 Unity Baptist Church 2261 Pleasant Valley Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-232-2184 West End Baptist Church 107 Mississippi Dr Rome, Ga 30165 706-235-1971 West Rome Baptist Church 914 Shorter Ave Rome, Ga 30165 706-232-9722 Wilkerson Road Baptist Church Wilkerson Rd Rome, Ga 30161 Woodlawn Baptist Church 1649 Cartersville Hwy SE Rome, Ga 30161 706-232-4171 Word & Way Baptist Church New Rocketmart Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-234-8729
Catholic
Saint Mary Catholic Church 911 N Broad St Rome, Ga 30161 706-295-7014
Christian & Missionary Alliance
Missionary Alliance 306 Coker Dr Rome, Ga 20165 706-235-9190
Church of Christ
Church of Christ 108 E Callahan St Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-0675 Lindale Church of Christ 3035 Maple Road Lindale, Ga 30147 706-234-3027 Oak Hill Church of Christ 1500 Martha Berry Hwy
Rome, Ga 20165 706-291-0351 Rome Church of Christ 121 Primrose Road Rome, Ga 30161 706-234-4444
Church of God
Armuchee Church of God 4974 Martha Berry Hwy Rome, Ga 30165 706-232-4414 Beech Creek Church of God 3000 Alabama Hwy NW Rome, Ga 30165 706-234-7466 Church of God of Prophecy 94 Huffaker Rd. Rome, GA 30165 706-528-4225 Lindale Church of God 585 Park Ave Lindale, Ga 30147 706-232-5676 New Life Church of God 210 E 18th St Rome, Ga 30161 706-232-0704 New Hope Overcoming Church of God 200 Nixon Ave Rome, Ga 30161 706-234-4695 North Rome Church of God 1929 N Broad St Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-6687 Rome AOH Church of God 504 Decatur St Rome, Ga 30165 706-295-2999 West Rome Church of God UA 2827 Alabama Hwy Rome, Ga 30165 706-880-6895
Disciples of Christ
First Christian Church 209 E. Second Ave, Rome, Ga 30161
Episcopal
Church of the Transfiguration 304 Coker Dr Rome, Ga 30165 706-234-0197 Saint Peter’s Episcopal Church 101 E 4th Ave Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-9111
Foursquare
Rome Foursquare Church 308 Reservoir St NE Rome, Ga 30161
Full Gospel
Christ Gospel Church 619 Chulio Rd SE Rome, Ga 30161 706-234-7744
Independent Bible
Grace Bible Church
614 Dalton Rd NE Rome, Ga 30165
Interdenominational
Cornerstone Church 324 Mathis Dr Rome, Ga 30165 706-234-4923 Renovation Church 2601 Shorter Ave. Rome, Ga 30165 (706) 936-1380
Lutheran
Holy Trinity Lutheran Church 3000 Garden Lakes Blvd Rome, Ga 30165 706-232-7257
Methodist
Beech Creek UMC 2972 Alabama Hwy, Rome, Ga 30165 706-235-4973 Chapel Hill UMC 1818 Kingston Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-232-9177 Holsey Sinai CME Church 1233 Martin L King Rome, Ga 30161 706-295-7265 Lindsay Chapel UMC 9 College Park Dr SW Rome, Ga 30161 Livingston UMC 21 E Lakeshore Dr SE Rome, Ga 30161 Metropolitan UMC 700 Broad St Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-8660 Mt Pleasant UMC 4782 Alabama Hwy Rome, Ga 30165 706-232-4350 New Bethel Methodist Church Reeceburg Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-235-9700 North Rome UMC 706-291-6704 Oostanaula UMC 74 Battey Farm Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-292-0084 Rome First UMC 202 E 3rd Ave Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-8590 Rush Chapel UMC 1225 Rush Chapel Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-7986 Scott Chapel UMC 3 Chambers St NE Rome, Ga 30161 Second Avenue UMC 801 E Second Ave SW Rome, GA 30161 Shannon UMC 600 First Street Shannon, GA 30172 706-491-7112
Silver Creek UMC 585 Reynolds Bend Rd Rome, GA 30161 706-234-2518 South Broad UMC 546 S Broad St Rome, Ga 30161 706-232-5230 Trinity UMC 606 Turner McCall Blvd SW Rome, Ga 30165 706-291-0033 Wesley Chapel UMC 9 College Park Dr SW Rome, Ga 30161 West Rome UMC 1003 Shorter Ave PO Box 2247 Rome, GA 30164 706-234-6214
Nazarene
Rome First Church of the Nazarene 20 Glenda Dr Rome, Ga 30165 706-234-5023
Non-Denominational
Access Church 1905 Calhoun Rd Rome, Ga 30161 705-584-7497 Christian Church at Rome 2417 Shorter Ave Rome, GA 30165 706-235-0501 Glorious New Jerusalem Church 537 W 12th St Rome, Ga 30165 706-295-2045 Glory Tabernacle Church 300 Watson St Rome, Ga 30165 706-235-0888 Gospel Harvester Church 1246 Cartersville Hwy SE Rome, Ga 30161 706-290-9858 LIFE Church of Rome 19 John Davenport Drive Rome GA 30165 706-728-3166 Lighthouse Church of Rome Lighthouse Dr SE Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-0864 New and Living Way Bible Church 59 Dykes Creek Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-233-9200 Northside Church 75 N. Floyd Park Rd. Rome, Ga 30165 706-233-9896 Rally Up International Ministries 1941 Shorter Avenue Rome, Ga 30165 706-235-8561 Solid Holy Rock Deliverance Tabernacle 700 Kingston Ave Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-8948 The Church at Rome 246 North 5th Avenue
Rome, Ga 30165 706-346-2733 The Place Global 1107 Calhoun Ave Rome, Ga 30161 706.802.2059 Trinity United Christian Church 6 Deer Run Trail Rome, Ga 30165 706-204-8270 We The Church 810 East 2nd Ave Rome, Ga 30161 Words of Faith Tabernacle 3134 Rockmart Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-314-9158
Orthodox
All Saints Church 615 Cleveland Ave Rome, Ga 30165 706-378-4474
Pentecostal
Cannon Temple Holiness Church 308 Porter St Rome, Ga 20161 706-233-9001 Christ Temple Holiness Church 1321 Martin L King Rome, Ga 30161 706-235-3787 Victory Temple Of Joy 118 Williamson St. Rome, Ga 30165 706-766-3865
Presbyterian
Covenant Presbyterian Church EPC 1645 Cartersville Hwy. Rome, GA 30161 706-767-8373 First Presbyterian Church EPC 101 E 3rd Ave Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-6033 Seven Hills Fellowship 530 Broad Street Rome, GA 30161 706-530-1630 Silver Creek Presbyterian Church 6 Old Rockmart Road Silver Creek, Ga 30173 706-234-6862 Westminster Presbyterian Church 1941 Shorter Ave Rome, Ga 30165 706-235-8561
Seventh-Day Adventist
Rome Bethany Seventh-Day Adventist Church 307 E 14th St SW Rome, Ga 30161 706-292-0067 Seventh-Day Adventist Church 2526 Cedartown Hwy SW Rome, Ga 30161 706-234-4117
Cave Spring Church Directory
Cave Spring Church of God 19 Mill Street Cave Spring, GA 30124 706-777-8348 Cedar Creek Baptist Church 5440 Black Buff Rd Rome, Ga 30161
706-777-8360 Live Oak Baptist Church 5506 GA-100 Cave Spring, GA 30124 706-777-8566 The Empty Tomb 5630 Fosters Mill Rd SW
Cave Spring, GA 30124 Rehoboth Missionary Baptist 6 Rehoboth Rd SW Cave Spring, GA 30124 706-777-3313 First Baptist Church 4 Old Cedartown Rd.
Cave Spring, GA 30124 706-777-3566 Cave Spring UMC 30 Alabama Street Cave Spring, GA 30124 (706) 777-8624
goodnewscm.com // 17
Gò0dNews for Mothers
What Does Mother’s Day Mean To You?
M
by Megan Van Meter
other’s Day is a time of joyous celebration and
Rejoice in the gifts God has blessed you with, find your
reflection. Joy is found in those small triumphs
peace with your cup of coffee and Jesus, and treasure each
when our kids finally pick up their clothes and
day that the Lord has made. Remember that it is okay to
help with the dishes, but mostly when they give you that
take time for yourself so that you can be renewed and ready
big hug and say, “I love you, mom.” There is nothing more
for the next challenge that will come your way. We never
rewarding than to hear that phrase from our children and
stop being moms even when we become grandmothers; our
our spouses.
love only grows stronger and our hearts overflow with joy
As moms, we are busy all year long with sports, ballet,
in all that being a mother entails.
award ceremonies, and the list goes on, but somehow we make it all happen, and we make it look so easy to others. God built us to be warriors, helpmates, and parents. HE gave us unique skills, a tender heart when we need it, patience, courage, and sternness when it is required. Moms put on the armor of God every day to get ready for the spiritual battles that come our way so that we can minister not only to our family but to our coworkers, the clerk at the grocery store, and our friends. We always make time to listen when our friends are in need of a comforting ear, and we stay awake with our children when they have had a nightmare. We do not seek glamour
Take heart, my sisters: know that you are special to all
or fame or fulfillment in the ways of the world; we are
you come in contact with and that everything you do does
devoted, righteous, and uplifting. We find our rewards in
matter and will make a difference. Never give up and never
making someone else’s day better, wiping a tear, and giving
give in to the things that make you feel exhausted; the sun
unselfishly to our neighbor.
will shine in the morning, and a new day will bring smiles
Because we are human, we too get tired and weary, and we often wonder if anything we do really makes a difference, but I’m here to tell you that you are worthy, child
and meaning. As you celebrate this very special day, I wish you laughter, fun, and joy in all you do. “She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come. She speaks with wisdom, and faithful
against you and you do not think you can take another step.
instruction is on her tongue. She watches over the affairs
This is the time when you find your fulfillment in Jesus,
of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness”
your rest at the foot of the cross, and your rejuvenation in
(Proverbs 31:25-27).
the Holy Word.
18 // May 2020
About The Author
of God, and loved even when you feel the world has turned
Megan Van Meter has been on staff at West Rome Church for 8 years. She finds joy in helping others. She is a grandmother of 2 and loves making memories for her family.
LIST YOUR CHURCH ACTIVITIES & EVENTS Such As:
• SPECIAL EVENTS • CONCERTS • CONFERENCES • ACTIVITIES • & MORE! Send Your Events To: articles.goodnews@gmail.com
Gò0dNews for Everyone If You Do It Unto One of The Least of These
M
by Jimmy Bryant
ost of us are living in times like we have
be taken in doing something like that. It would be prudent
not lived through before with the raging
to set it on the front porch; call the person and tell them it is
Coronavirus. We have grown accustomed to the
there and that we will pick up the dishes after all of this is
flu as it rages across the country every winter. We don’t
over. After all, I John 3:17 says, ”But whoso hath this world's
think much about that, even though it kills thousands in
good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his
the states every year. But this is different. This is something
bowels [of compassion] from him, how dwelleth the love of
new. And we are afraid at worst and uneasy at best. So far
God in him?” And don’t forget Isaiah 25:4, “For thou hast
there is no vaccine to inoculate against the virus. And that
been a strength to the poor, a strength to the needy in his
makes us even more uneasy. However, as unnerving as it is, we need to remember that God is still on His throne. The One who healed the lame; gave sight to the blind; raised the dead; walked on water; calmed the storm and rose bodily from the grave following a horrible crucifixion is still in business. Rather than worry, we should gather all of our family at some convenient time and have a special prayer for the families of those who have died; for those who have contracted the virus; those who have been exposed who may or may not be aware they have been exposed. We should also pray that our Lord
distress, a refuge from the storm, a shadow from the heat,
would intervene and stop the spread of the virus. And
when the blast of the terrible ones [is] as a storm [against]
last but certainly not least, we should hold our President,
the wall.”
Vice-President, the Covid-19 task force, our congress and
This might just be the gesture that would bring someone
others that are involved in trying to treat and trying to a
to faith in Christ or strengthen those who are already saved.
stop to this virus. They need wisdom, boldness and factual
Would you be the hands and heart of Jesus to someone if the
knowledge so they can make appropriate decisions. We
occasion arises?
should pray to that end. we learn of a friend, a neighbor, known or unknown, we could prepare a meal and take it to the house. Caution must
20 // May 2020
About The Author
But what about you and me? What can we do? When
Jimmy Bryant and his wife of almost 60 years reside in Summerville, GA. He is interim pastor at Pleasant Grove Baptist Church in the Gore Community. He has authored a book, “Confessions of a Baptist Minister,” available at Amazon.com.
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Our Vision S/A Landscape Service’s vision is to implement
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22 // May 2020
distinguishes S&A from our competition is that we
the names of my twin girls, Sara and Ana. I love
recognize our staff and customers. We also emphasize
those names because they are biblical.” The subtitle
our eco-friendly work while trying to better the
of our company “In God we Trust,” is in all of our
environment. At S&A, we constantly strive to be better
ads. We believe that because we depend on Him for
every day. We are at your disposal.
everything. Jose has a routine to check that his workers
We are thankful for God and for the ability that He
are always accomplishing his work in every area. S&A
has given us. We are grateful for being able to serve
Landscape has two full time employees and a few who
Him and serve the beautiful area of Rome, Georgia. We
are part time. We work hard, so that all of our clients
have lived in Rome, Georgia for more than 15 years,
are satisfied with a job well done.
therefore our profession gives us the ability to serve and develop professional projects. Jose likes to work outside and take care of his clients. One of the things that the clients ask him is
We are here for you, if you have any projects in mind. For more information please check our website at salandscaperome.com, email us at Joselopezland@ gmail.com, or give us a call (706) 266-4436.
“What does S&A mean?” José answered “It means
goodnewscm.com // 23
Gò0dNews for Health & Fitness
CBD Products—What’s All The Buzz? Oh, Wait—There’s Not One. by Dave Carringer
I
n 2019, the U.S. made positive regulatory changes regarding
hemp/CBD products (6/16/19) and was one of the pioneers helping
products containing Cannabidiol (CBD). Consumers have
to bring CBD to the consumer market. They also own a respected
reported beneficial effects in pain, stress, and sleep. Chronic pain
pharmaceutical division and are therefore a favorite of M.D.s who
patients are reporting CBD makes a noticeable difference in daily
send patients for quality products they trust. Barlean’s has earned
life function without side effects of prescription drugs. CBD is also
countless awards and has been named “No. 1 Health Food Store
getting attention in areas of depression, inflammation, nerve pain
Brand” and “Manufacturer of the Year” numerous times over their
and disorders, and even reports of helping alleviate cancer-related
30-year history. Our broad-spectrum products (certified THC free)
symptoms and treatment side effects.
are by Garden of Life, a premier whole food/supplement company
These new regulations, along with consumers reporting various physical and mental benefits, have created a market flooded with new CBD companies, stores, and products even being sold in smoke shops and convenience stores. This market explosion raises legitimate questions. Are all CBD products the same? Are they safe? Which ones can I trust? If you’re curious about CBD, I’ll briefly touch on a few basic facts to help get you started in the right direction. There are 3 major groups of CBD products. “Full-spectrum” (or whole-plant) products contain CBD along with terpenes and other cannabinoids. This group has an advantage known as the “entourage effect,” simply meaning the cannabinoids and terpenes work synergistically for maximum results. Full-spectrum products have a very low (less than 0.3%) THC content with no “intoxicating” effects whatsoever. Still,
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These three U.S. Hemp Authority Certified companies have 60
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These also have an array of cannabinoids and terpenes with CBD
processes, their fully traceable, sustainably grown non-GMO
but contain zero THC. “Isolate” products contain only CBD that’s
products are third-party independently tested to ensure the
been isolated from everything else and are mixed with carrier oils
highest-quality CBD with no hidden pesticides or contaminants.
or in powder form.
As leaders of the CBD market with experience and standards most
Although CBD is extracted from hemp, hemp oil is not
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the same as CBD. All CBD companies, product standards, and
products at Abundant Living. If you have further questions about
extraction processes are not equal. It’s advisable to research
CBD or other health-related products, stop by and we’ll be happy
companies apart from product sales reps or brochures. Attractive
to assist you!
a safe, quality product. Our full-spectrum products at Abundant Living are by CV Sciences and Barlean’s. CV Sciences is rated No. 1 in SPINS data for
24 // May 2020
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
About The Author
labels and smooth sales pitches won’t guarantee you’re purchasing
Dave Carringer is the owner of Abundant Living, which has joyfully served the Cleveland area since 2005. They offer organic groceries, high quality supplements, vitamins, CBD, herbs, and essential oils. Fruition Juice and Smoothie Bar is also located inside the store.
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
Learning To Rest
D
by Susan Lavigne
o you ever feel like you can’t slow down? You have
Throughout my 30-or-more years of employment, I
101 things on your “to-do” list, and you are already
have experienced a number of quieter times where I felt
running behind. You have said “yes” to too many
God speaking to me from His Word. “Be still and know that
activities. Maybe you feel like Bill Watterson, who said,
I am God” (Psalm 46:10). My initial response was, “God, I
“God put me on this earth to accomplish a certain number of
don’t do ‘still’!” However, that is when He also reminds me
things. Right now, I am so far behind that I will never die!”
that it’s more difficult to hear His voice if I don’t slow down
Then, something happens in your life that slows you down.
long enough to listen. Over the last three years, I have been
Learning to rest has never been easy for me. My
experiencing a quiet season, “stilled” by chronic pain and
family valued performance and achievement. Actually, having a strong work ethic has served me and the companies I worked for very well. However, sometimes it felt like my whole self-worth was wrapped up in what I did instead of who I was. So, if I wasn’t performing well or achieving something, my life didn’t seem to have much meaning. By the grace of God, I have achieved a lot in my life. Right out of college, life was moving forward fast, working as a physical therapist in a privately owned orthopedic clinic. Yet, a short two years later, at the age of 29, I injured my back and was out of work for several months. I went from
by the loss of employment, but I have truly experienced
helping others to needing help. Very depressed, I thought,
“knowing God” more during this time than any other time
“If I couldn’t work, who was I?”
in my life. God created the Sabbath for man. He created it
I wonder sometimes if others don’t feel the way I do.
for a purpose—for both our enjoyment and rest. Yet, even
We are so caught up in our roles (like employee, parent,
more, the Sabbath is meant to quiet ourselves before God
caretaker, etc.) that we forget we are loved by God for who
and experience His presence. I hope that you will take some
we are and not for what we do. We forget that God loves us
time to learn to rest in God’s presence today.
because He created us. So, even if I cannot work or achieve still remember that I am loved by God. This has been a difficult lesson to learn, especially in my quieter seasons.
26 // May 2020
About The Author
something academically or socially or athletically, I should Susan C. Lavigne is the training coach for the Celebrate Recovery at Trinity United Christian Church in Rome, GA. She is a Christian speaker and songwriter. Feel free to contact her at susanclavigne@gmail.com.
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
Finding My Purpose
“I
by Miriam Little
n all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will
God meant for me to be on. Through my role with Harbin
direct your path” (Proverbs 3:6).
Clinic, I became involved with Summit Quest, whose sole
Being the child of a preacher, I was not
purpose is to “provide Strength, Hope & Service to children
always sure what my purpose was in life. My family
and families affected by cancer,” and this is where I found
always encouraged me to live my life in a way that was
my niche. My role as a liaison to the Hispanic community
serving God and others. As I became an independent
and vice president on the board of directors for Summit
young adult, I found that the encouragement I had
Quest has allowed me to see God’s work in progress. As
received was helping me to find fulfillment in my everyday
I continue searching for my niche as a bridge to connect
life. As I started my own family and career as a social worker, my direction became clear. My purpose to serve God and others became my passion, which was to help families as a whole, and not just individuals. In September of 2015, I started my position as a Medical Social Worker with Harbin Clinic Cancer Center. Initially, I was hesitant about what I could bring to an already awesome team of nurses, doctors, and support staff. I was not sure what God’s plan was for me or how I would fit in. The team I had just become a part of already served their patients and families well. The role of a social worker in the
patients and their families to needed services, I can’t pass
organization was newly developed. Therefore, I felt a sense
the opportunity to thank organizations such as Summit
of newly discovered land filling my heart: what I imagine
Quest. To the staff, volunteers, and each family member
Columbus may have felt. I had mixed feelings of self-doubt,
who has been a part of this special cause, thank you!
nervousness, and excitement all at the same time. These
Whether you have been directly or indirectly affected
feelings subsided after the reassurance I received from this
by cancer, there is always something you can do. I urge each
great team, who has withstood the test of time.
person to please consider donating your time, prayers, and
Working with cancer patients, and their families, has a way of providing meaning to the simplest of things. Reading
resources toward this special cause, Summit Quest! “The purpose of life is not to be happy. It is to be useful,
the brave stories in Faces of Hope and Voices of Cancer gave
to be honorable, to be compassionate, and to have it make
me an optimistic attitude and a sense of service, hope, and
some difference that you have lived and lived well.”
purpose. I feel that I found my destiny and that path that
—Ralph Waldo Emerson
28 // May 2020
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
Cherish Your Time
“D
by Catherine Tyler
o not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring” (Proverbs 27:1). Time is precious. That is something that I have learned through this unprecedented time in our nation. Time with our loved ones, friends, and family can come to a halt in an instant! We do not know what tomorrow may bring. During this time, it has made me realize that the time we have is precious, and we should value it more than we do. Despite the circumstances, I have been thankful to have more time to spend with my husband. Time is all we really have in this world, and so much of it is usually taken up by our responsibilities in life. Many times, I find myself wasting time and then wondering where it went. I am sure that I am not alone in this scenario! Instead of wasting this extra time we have, we need to cherish it. We need to spend more time with our spouses, children, and God. We need to
30 // May 2020
lean on the Lord, thank Him for the time that He has given us with our family, and thank Him for keeping us safe. One of the most important things we need to continue to do is cherish our time once this unprecedented time is over. Before we know it,
the hustle and bustle of normal life will be back, and we will be wishing we had extra time to spend with our loved ones. Once our lives go back to what we would consider normal, we need to continue to remember how important time is and how our time here on earth will not last forever. Let’s not get caught back up in all those routines that drain us and strip us of our time with our loved ones, friends, and God.
Gò0dNews on Finances
Will You Always Have A Car Payment?
I
by Charles Howell
was of that opinion for a long time. Cars are some of
read the classic book, “The Millionaire Next Door,” you
your biggest purchases, next to a home, and it would
will read that a minority of millionaires drive the current
seem natural for that to just be a regular line item in
year’s model of car.
your budget. On the journey to get out of debt, paying off your car
In the years after being out of debt, you will probably work your way up in cars over the years, and they will
(or cars) is a major accomplishment, especially if done
each get easier and easier to purchase. That first $3,000 car
faster than the regularly scheduled car payments. With
will over the years work its way up to a nearly new car, all
higher costs for cars, the time for a typical car loan is
paid with cash.
lengthening too. The last car loan I had was for four years. Now, it is not uncommon for loans to extend upwards
All of this requires discipline. I like to call it “making your money behave.” The Book of Hebrews
of 84 months. It was a huge relief when I paid off my car early and was out of all consumer debt. I like to think about the question behind the question or, in this case, the next question. If I am committed to staying out of debt, how will I buy my next car? The answer is hopefully, “With cash.” Again, that is a lot of money: no small challenge unless you just have tons of money available! The simplest approach is to take what you were making as a car payment and set it aside each month for the next car. So will you always have a car payment? The answer is “Yes” and “No.” “Yes,” in that you will be paying for the next car, but it will be from
talks about discipline being difficult. It is, but over time,
savings; your “payment” is to your savings account rather
it is productive.
than your bank. “No,” in that you will never hopefully borrow the money. The discipline of making your money behave starts with budgeting and getting out of debt, but it continues as you purposely save for that new car. If you want to make this work well, buying a new
Hebrews 12:11: “No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.” Let 2020 be a year of discipline and making your money behave!
car is probably out of the picture. That is because new a quality used car that is about one or two years old is ultimately the sweet spot for your purchase. If you ever
32 // May 2020
About The Author
cars depreciate the most in the first year or so. Buying
Charles Howell was trained under the Dave Ramsey Master Coach program. He has been a money nerd all his life. After retiring from a career in Information Technology in 2017, he is pursuing his dream career. Charles lives in Silver Creek, Georgia, and serves clients anywhere in the country.
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Gò0dNews for Mothers
A Mother’s Call To Arms od bless the children, and God bless the mothers who raise them! There is no mold for a mother. They come with varying packaging and functionality. Some are ranked high as a humanitarian, a sergeant, a cultivator, and a pushover, for example, but all are given the gift of bringing forth life. For some, motherhood comes easy, but for others, it is a constant test and trial. Mothers are constantly evolving and facing challenges. There’s an old saying that mothers wear many different hats depending on the current need of the child or family. They are versatile, super flexible, and sometimes ventriloquists. They have some of the funniest sayings, like, “I’m cold; go put your coat on.” What are some of the funny things your mother said or did that bring a smile to your face? Mothers definitely help create colorful memories of childhood. Those childhood pictures with the embarrassing stories. The Easter outfits! The haircuts! Ah, but you have to love the joy that the stories bring and the laughter that ensues with each shared tale: the bond that is kindled each time you reminisce. And when you spend time together, you begin to see things you hadn’t noticed before, like the laugh lines on her face, or the reassurance that you’ve been missed and that you are always loved. For her, the memory of the first time your tiny hand wrapped around her finger was the moment she felt her heart beating in her own chest. She pledged her life to this small being: you, a tiny baby, her world. Psalm 139:13: “You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body and knit me together in my mother’s womb.” God’s Word says that He knew you before you were created. He had already given you a soul and a purpose and called you His own. You have a mother who chose to give you life and a God who chose to create you! You have a purpose, and your mother is your biggest fan!
34 // May 2020
Mothers have an insane way of knowing you and when you’re up to something. Haven’t you ever wondered how they knew? I mean, they do have eyes in the backs of their heads, right? Even so, mothers are having to get more creative nowadays, just to catch a minute of family time. What with social media and all the electronic devices, it’s almost requiring battle strategies!
Ephesians 6:10-18 tells us to put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. This is a call to arms for all mothers. Don’t stand idle, allowing things of this world to falsely lead our children astray. We have the ultimate power in Christ Jesus, who can do all things. What a blessing: a mother who trains her child to worship and follow Jesus Christ! That’s every mother’s prayer: that her child walks in the ways of Christ and knows love as Christ loved the Church. Even in His final hour on the cross, He had concern for His mother. A mother has a special calling, and she is a blessing beyond measure! Celebrate your mother. Happy Mother’s Day!
About The Author
G
by Kaye Stein
Kaye Stein, native of Chatsworth, residing in Rome is a nurse of 40 years, a mom, and a Nana. A published author who enjoys reading and learning, but mostly family and laughter!
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Gò0dNews for your Taste Buds
Fish Florentine by Mary Anderson Beard
I
love cooking! There is just something about taking random ingredients, putting them together, and ending
Instructions
up with a delicious creation that my friends and family
can enjoy! Lately, I have been really focusing on healthy eating habits and incorporating that into family meals that are both healthy and delicious! This recipe for fish florentine is one of my favorite recipes. I would love for you to try it and it become a favorite of yours too!
Ingredients • 4 - 5oz. thick pieces of skinless white firm fish fillet (I use grouper) • 1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil • 1 Tbsp butter • 1 cup red bell pepper, chopped • 2 cloves garlic, minced • 9 oz. fresh baby spinach • 2 oz. reduced fat cream cheese • ¼ cup half-and-half cream • 3 Tbsp grated parmesan cheese
• In a large skillet, over medium heat, add ½ Tbsp olive oil and ½ Tbsp butter, red bell pepper, and garlic and cook for 4 minutes. • Add spinach, season with salt and pepper; cook until the spinach wilts down. • Add cream cheese, half-and-half, and parmesan cheese; mix well until cream cheese is melted and resembles creamed spinach. • Heat a separate skillet on medium high heat; add remaining oil and butter. • Season fish on both sides with salt and pepper and place on the hot pan. • Cook 6 minutes on first side, flip fish over, and cook on the other side an additional 5 minutes until cooked thru and browned. • Divide the spinach mixture on the bottom of each plate and top with a piece of fish.
• Salt and pepper, to taste
Nutrition Information
About The Author
Serving: 1 fish fillet with about ½ cup spinach. Calories: 351, Carbohydrates: 6 g, Protein: 43 g, Fat: 16.5 g, Saturated Fat: 6.5 g, Cholesterol: 78 mg, Sodium: 300 mg, Fiber: 2 g, Sugar: 2 g
36 // May 2020
Mary Anderson Beard lives in Coosa with her husband, Brian. They have three beautiful, grown children and soon will have three amazing grandchildren! She enjoys being active in their church, Wilkerson Road Baptist Church, as well as her grandson’s school, Unity Christian School. She loves baking, blogs, WW, and spending time with her family and friends!
Come in on your birthday and receive a free pasta dinner, including our famous house salad and garlic rolls, with spumoni ice cream for dessert.
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Gò0dNews for Everyone How Should Christians Respond to the Cornonavirus?
C
by Reagan Marsh
hristians walk today in a situation without precedent
displeasure. Jesus took those for us. We’re no longer God’s
in our lifetimes. Yet we do not walk in the dark. God’s
enemies. Jesus brought us into his family, and we now have a
Word provides counsel, perspective, and wisdom as to
Father who loves us better than we could hope. We have peace
how believers ought to respond to the Coronavirus. 1. In faith. Our God is a great King – King of kings, and
Lord of lords. Scripture says he is in the heavens (Ps 115:3),
that transcends all understanding in the Saviour who’s better than we could ever imagine. 6. In wisdom. We will follow sound counsel because the
and his is no impersonal sovereignty – he knows my name and
Lord calls us to honor the leaders he sets over us insofar as
orders my steps. He demonstrated his love, such that his only-
they don’t dishonor him. We’ll also do it because he commands
begotten Son died for sinners – died for me! His Spirit dwells
us to love our neighbors. So we’ll wash our hands and stay
within me, so I have great assurance that he’ll never forsake or
home for a while. We won’t do foolish things that break the 6th
forget me. I am to believe.
Commandment (it forbids “the taking away of…the life of our
2. In hope. Because of who God is, he is not only near to
neighbor unjustly, or whatsoever tendeth thereunto”). Wisdom
his people – he hears us when we
isn’t fear. It’s faith, applied with
call to him. He hears my prayers and
careful consideration of the whole
groans. He knows my needs. He’s
counsel of God. 7. In generosity. We have no
sympathetic toward my fears, dealing with me in tender mercies and
clue how long this situation will last,
steadfast love. He cannot change, and
or how bad it may get – but we have
thus cannot deal with me in any other
no uncertainty what Scripture calls
way. Such hope never disappoints us.
us to do. “As we have opportunity,
3. In love. In his kind
let us do good to all men, especially
providence, God is giving us
those of the household of faith” (Gal
more time than usual to attend to
6:10). So we will extend ourselves to
communion with himself through
others in his name, as God has done
prayer and his word. Now is a
for us in Jesus, seeking opportunities
wonderful opportunity to cultivate
to speak of his grace, and trusting
greater love to him. Don’t waste your
that our God will supply all our
quarantine. In his wise providence,
needs according to his riches in glory
this is also a time when many around us are fearful. We have a
in Christ as we seek to honor him before men.
fantastic opportunity to show and speak of the love of God in
Faith, hope, love, truth, peace, wisdom, generosity. These
Christ’s life, death, and resurrection. Love to God and man is to
are all matters which, for the Christian, ultimately orbit around
define all that we do.
the Cross. Our Saviour knows our sorrows and struggles. He
4. In truth. Fear is rooted in a false vision of who God
was the man of sorrows, after all. He promises his nearness to
is. Christians, of all people, love “the truth as it is in Jesus” –
the brokenhearted and his mercy to the downcast, while calling
what his Word says about him. We love to see more of God’s
the anxious to find rest and peace in him. He knows where
character and ways in the Scriptures. Why do you think he’s
we are in our weakness, and is yet a merciful and faithful high
given you the grace to grow in what you know of him at this
priest for us in his strength. The Cross pledges his love to us.
season? It’s for your living comfort and faithful witness of his
So Christian: draw near, and find rest for your soul in
redeeming mercy in Jesus: the only way, truth, and life.
Christ’s faithful, mighty care.
Jesus took that for us. We’re no longer under God’s wrath and
38 // May 2020
About The Author
5. In peace. Panic, fear, unrest, and terror mark many today. But Christians are a people who are no longer dead.
Reagan Marsh is husband to Kara, daddy to RG & AG, and founding Pastor-Teacher to Reformation Baptist Church. An SBTS graduate, biblical counselor, and Th.D student in Puritan Studies, he has served in gospel ministry since 1998.
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
Pine Cones
H
by Jennifer Cobb
ave you ever noticed a pine cone?
when they need to be fully protected. Pine cones
Well, of course you have! Have you
open up to let their seeds be eaten or released to
ever actually closely examined it or
grow more pine trees in the future. During the
thought of the properties it possesses? I will
historic COVID-19 events, grocery stores tried
spare you the details of the scientific name of
to keep certain things on shelves for weeks,
a pine cone and which tree it obviously comes
even though items continued to run out quickly.
from. Instead, I want to focus on the seeds
Were people scared? Yes. But I believe that it
that lie within the pine cone. I have always
was not so much about being fully scared as
had a beautiful fascination with nature, and
it was about being unprepared to face one of our greatest
trees and items that come from trees are my favorite. If you are walking on a
fears—the fear of not
hot spring day (thanks, Georgia),
being able to protect our
you will notice that most pine
“seed”: our children, our
cones are opened; you would
parents, or our closest
be able to stick your finger
friends and family.
in between the spaces of
That time really
the actual cone. But if you
showed us that we are
were out walking after
not in control: that God
a rain, or on a cold day,
is fully in control. I
the spaces would be
do not want to debate
closed, through which
on what went right
you would not be able
or wrong during the
to poke your finger, and it
events; I just know that
would be quite prickly to the
this metaphor helped me
touch. Pine cones bear seeds, much
through a tough time of uncertainty. If God is the pine
like a lot of things in nature. During our whole quarantine situation as a
tree, we are the pine cones, and the people we
nation, pine cones came to mind. I know that
love are the seeds. He just wants us to flourish.
sounds really odd, but go with it for a second.
In times of trouble, isn’t that what Christians
Pine cones close up and protect their seeds
are meant to do?
40 // May 2020
Gò0dNews
Christian Magazine
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W
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e believe when people are equipped,
Who: Our writers range from pastors, professors, and
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professional writers to stay at home moms and dads,
living out their faith in Jesus Christ they
business professionals, and others who have a desire to
have the potential to be world changers. Our mission is to bring people into a dynamic
relationship with Jesus Christ—a relationship that empowers them to see how God can work through individual personalities, situations, and talents. Christ was an activist, he did not neglect the needs of the people as He brought His message. We strive to encourage everyone to look more like Christ by reaching outside of themselves to serve the needs of others—at home, at school, in communities, and across the world.
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reach out to people through words of encouragement. What: We believe that it is important to laugh together, praise each other, encourage one another, and to offer biblical advice. Articles can be directed toward everyone, or from woman to woman, or man to man. We love to share recipes and family traditions as well. We ask that articles be kept to a 500 word maximum. We’d love to hear from you! Where: Please send submissions to articles.goodnews@gmail.com Why: Because God has not intended for us to just survive. We believe that we are intended to reach out to love and encourage each other. God has brought each of us through tough times, blessed us, and made the “impossible” possible. Let’s, together, share the love of Jesus Christ.
Gò0dNews for Everyone
Finding Peace
P
by Zebbie Brewster
hilippians 3:6-7: “Be careful for nothing; but
professionals care for my loved one needing help, I am
in everything by prayer and supplication
thankful that when I felt I could do nothing else, at least
with thanksgiving let your requests be made
I could pray.
known to God. And the peace of God, which passeth
I am so thankful for the power of prayer. We are told
all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds
to let our requests be made known unto God. In those
through Christ Jesus.”
times when your world gets turned upside down, I feel it is only God who can give you His peace. Oh, the peace of trusting God with all the burdens of your heart. Isaiah 26:3-4: “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee. Trust ye in the Lord forever: for in the Lord Jehovah is everlasting strength.” May I encourage you to trust your burdens to the Lord. Psalm 55:16-17: “As for me, I will call upon God; and the
Have you ever felt completely helpless? You want
Lord shall save me. Evening, and morning, and at noon,
to be able to help, but you can’t. It seems you are on the
will I pray, and cry aloud: and he shall hear my voice.”
outside looking in, and you wish you could help! Life
May the peace of God, which passeth all
changes in a heartbeat. Ask any parent with a young
understanding, keep your hearts and minds through
child. They can be fine one minute, and then the next
Jesus Christ.
thing you know, they have had an accident. Accidents
He is only a prayer away!
immune to their happening in our lives. Let me tell you, in those times when I had to step back and let the
42 // May 2020
About The Author
can happen anytime and anywhere. None of us are Zebbie Brewster resides in Summerville, Georgia. She is an active member at Perennial Springs Baptist Church.
LAWNMOWER SHOP 23 Alabama Street Cave Spring, GA 706.777.8877
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6am-10pm Closed Sunday