May 2025

Gò0dNews May 2025

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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.

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About Us WRITERS

Ben Johnson Filip Brunner Garrett Nudd Granger Hughes Hayden Lanier Jan Merop Katie Taylor Kirstin Reggel Mitch Jolly Dr. Richard Dixon Rodney Jones Stephanie Stewart Zebbie Brewster

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Matthew Ruckman 423-503-1410 Email: goodnewstn@gmail.com

DESIGN

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PHOTOGRAPHER Melanie Abney 706-844-3818

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

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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 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.

Contents M AY 2 0 2 5

GoodNews from the Pastor’s Desk

6 Order Out of Chaos

by Dr. Richard Dixon

GoodNews for Seniors

22 Becoming an Overcomer

by Zebbie Brewster

GoodNews for Everyone

GoodNews for Parents

by Hayden Lanier

by Mitch Jolly

8 What is Your Testimony?

GoodNews Money Matters

10 Growing Our Wealth Versus Withdrawing It

by Granger Hughes GoodNews for Everyone

12 Study in Genesis: The Creation of Humans

by Filip Brunner GoodNews for Women

14 Why You Don’t Love Your Life

by Stephanie Stewart GoodNews for Relationships

18 Praying for the One

by Katie Taylor

GoodNews Cover Story

20 The Herb Shop On Broad

24 Boundaries GoodNews for Kids

26 Frolicking Like a Calf

by Jan Merop

GoodNews for Everyone

28 You Too

6

by Rodney Jones

GoodNews for Discovering More

30 More Than a Paradigm Shift

by Garrett Nudd

GoodNews for your Taste Buds

32 Classic Juicy Beef Burgers GoodNews Poetry

34 Breathing in Faith

by Ben Johnson

GoodNews for Health & Fitness

36 Musings on Fitness and

20

Health and Why It’s Important to Me

by Kirstin Reggel

34

Gò0dNews from the Pastor’s Desk

Order Out of Chaos

O

by Dr. Richard Dixon

rder in the court! Order in the court! This is a common command that one might hear in a court of law when the judge demands everyone

to stop talking or in some cases, stop shouting over each other. When the judge desires to restore peace, he will pound a gavel on the desk and loudly exclaim, “Order in the court!” Everyone will instantaneously quiet down. With one command, order is brought. But what does one do in life when it becomes chaotic? Where is that judge when you need him? The Bible enlightens one as to how chaos is controlled. Really it does, and a deep search is not required to find that God brought order out of chaos right in the beginning.

“In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. The earth was without form and void, and darkness was over the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters, And God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light. And God saw that the light was good. And God separated the light from the darkness” (Genesis 1:1-4 ESV).

The author brings the reader’s attention to Earth’s creation. Like a judge in a courtroom, God brought order to a chaotic situation. Notice God’s handiwork when He created something from nothing. In verse 2, the Spirit of God was hovering. The words portray the presence of the Creator. God’s Spirit was moving back and forth over the chaos. Imagine the love and excitement He must have had knowing what He was about to create. The good news for us to learn from this is when life seems to be chaotic, God can bring order out of it. He can create something beautiful out of it.

When life gets complicated, God is not surprised by it.

Nothing takes Him by surprise. Remember that God can

Chaos is a state of confusion or a state of things in which chance is supreme. God wants neither of these.

“For God is not the author of confusion but of peace, as in all the churches of the saints” (1 Corinthians 14:33 NKJV).

Take comfort in knowing that God wants peace, not confusion. Nothing takes Him by surprise and things are not happenstance when you seek Him and His will. Envision God in Heaven slamming down His heavenly gavel and order is once again established. There is chaos where God is not present. There is peace where God abides.

Chaos may continue to pop up in our lives, but with faith in God and His plan, order can be obtained. You might be thinking, how is order brought into my life? With faith. I know, it sounds too simple, right?

“But without faith it is impossible to please Him: for he that cometh to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him” (Hebrews 11:6 KJV).

When life comes at you hard and chaos abounds, seek Him, and order can be secured. God loves you and wants peace for you, not chaos. Trust and seek Him in the chaos and you will find the peace in His order.

bring order out of chaos just like He did in the beginning chaotic times.

“For all the promises of God in Him are Yes, and in Him Amen, to the glory of God through us” (2 Corinthians 1:20 NKJV).

6 // May 2025

About The Author

and He has given us many promises to help us through

Rev. Richard Dixon, ThD, lives in Rome, Georgia, with his wife, Kathy, and serves at Legacy Church. He is a member of World Bible Way Fellowship (Ben Franklin, TX) and holds a doctorate in Theology from Andersonville Theological Seminary and a master’s in Applied Biblical Studies from Moody Theological Seminary. He is a retired U.S. Coast Guard Chief Warrant Officer.

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

What is Your Testimony?

by Hayden Lanier

I

love hearing people share their testimonies. It is truly

following after whatever the world said and whatever your

beautiful to hear someone talk about how they came to

fleshly nature prompted you to do, but you have been saved

know Jesus. But unfortunately, I have heard people share

by the grace of God alone. You were born in a fallen state by

a version of their testimony where they made no mention of

nature, but now God continues to show you the riches of His

Jesus or salvation. Your testimony is not the story of good

grace in kindness in Christ.

things God has done for you or how the Lord led you to a particular school or career path. Your testimony is not limited to how God helped you overcome some struggles or trials.

These things are a part of your testimony, and God certainly uses them, but your testimony is primarily the story of how you were dead in sin but have now been made alive in Jesus.

Your testimony’s details are unique because we are all unique. We have different backgrounds and varying life experiences, so share those details. Be discerning about what you say (for example, maybe don’t tell someone you just met about a sin you still struggle with), but be honest. Make it personal and truthful.

If you’ve never shared your testimony, a good way to

You might wonder why this is important or if you need

structure it is to answer these three questions: 1. What was my

to share your testimony. There is power in your testimony

life like before Jesus? 2. How did I come to know Jesus? 3. What is

because there is power in the gospel. There is power in your

my life like now with Jesus?

testimony because your testimony is the truth of how you

This model is something that we see laid out in Scripture,

have been redeemed by the blood of Jesus. There is power

with one well-known example being Ephesians 2:1-10. This

in your testimony because there is power in the God who

passage answers these questions by teaching that before

has changed your life, and you want others to know Him as

Jesus, we were dead in sin, following after the world and

well. Telling others your testimony makes sharing the gospel

after Satan, living in the passions of our flesh, and we were

personal and builds a connection between you and them.

children of wrath by nature (Ephesians 2:1-3). But God has

Your salvation story is one of the greatest tools you have been

made us alive with Christ, saved us by grace — not by works

equipped with as a child of God.

— raised us up and seated us with Him in the Heavenly

May you boldly proclaim how God has “called you out

places (Ephesians 2:4-9). The third question — who we are

of darkness into his marvelous light” (1 Peter 2:9 ESV). Have

now — is also answered in that we are God’s workmanship

you encountered Jesus; has He changed your life? If so, who

(Ephesians 2:10), which means that we are His masterpiece!

can you share your testimony with?

God has good works for us to do that He has already planned for us, “that we should walk in them” (Ephesians 2:10 ESV). testimony apart from the one you are testifying about. Tell others you were dead in sin but are now alive. You were

8 // May 2025

About The Author

Knowing Jesus changes everything. You cannot have a

Hayden Lanier attends Shorter University and works at Cave Spring Baptist Church.

You can find more of his writing on his blog, setyourmindabove.wordpress.com.

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Growing Our Wealth Versus Withdrawing It Money Matters Granger Hughes

Driven by a passion to educate, inform and prepare future retirees, Mr. Hughes works with his father to help provide educational opportunities for clients as well as others in the community.

He feels a responsibility to help inform those who may otherwise not be aware of strategies, changes, and opportunities available to them when it comes to their financial well-being.

H

ow important is the difference between growing our

consideration of how we position our assets throughout both

wealth and withdrawing it?

phases, especially when it comes to risk management, tax

Understanding the distinction between the

contribution and distribution phases of wealth accumulation is essential for effective retirement planning. While accumulating wealth during our working years focuses on growth through consistent contributions, the distribution phase requires a careful strategy to ensure that our savings provide sustainable income throughout retirement.

Contribution Phase: Building Wealth During our working years, the primary goal is to accumulate

strategies, and distribution planning.

Strategies to Mitigate Sequence-of-Returns Risk To safeguard retirement income against unfavorable sequences of returns, consider the following strategies: 1. Diversify Your Portfolio: Maintain a mix of asset classes to buffer against market volatility. Diversification can help mitigate the impact of poor performance in any single investment.

2. Adjust Asset Allocation Over Time: Gradually reduce exposure to high-risk investments as retirement approaches,

wealth. This phase involves regular contributions to retirement

aligning your portfolio with your risk tolerance and income needs.

accounts such as 401(k)s or IRAs, often utilizing strategies like

3. Establish a Sustainable Withdrawal Strategy: Determine

dollar-cost averaging. By investing a fixed amount regularly,

withdrawal rates that balance income needs with the longevity

regardless of market conditions, we purchase more shares when

of your portfolio. Some experts suggest the “4% rule” as a

prices are low and fewer when prices are high, potentially lowering

starting point, but it’s essential to tailor this based on individual

our average cost per share over time. This approach harnesses the

circumstances and market conditions.

power of compound growth, where earnings generate their own

4. Maintain Cash Reserves: Keep a portion of your portfolio

earnings, significantly enhancing the growth of our investments.

in liquid, low-risk assets to cover several years of living expenses.

Distribution Phase: Managing Withdrawals

This approach allows you to avoid selling investments during

Transitioning to retirement shifts the focus from accumulating assets to managing withdrawals. The sequence in which returns

market downturns, preserving the potential for recovery.

5. Regularly Review and Adjust Your Plan: Periodically assess

occur becomes crucial during this phase. Sequence-of-returns

your financial situation, investment performance, and changing

risk refers to the danger that the timing of withdrawals from a

needs. Adjust your strategy as necessary to stay aligned with your

retirement account will harm the investor’s overall rate of return.

retirement goals.

Experiencing poor investment returns early in retirement, when

In conclusion, the transition from the contribution phase to

portfolio balances are higher due to accumulated contributions, can

the distribution phase necessitates a shift in strategy from growth-

significantly impact the sustainability of withdrawals.

focused accumulation to preservation and sustainable withdrawal.

During our working careers it doesn’t matter when the

Understanding the impact of sequence-of-returns risk and

losses occur so long as we don’t touch the money. Our average

implementing strategies to mitigate it are crucial for ensuring that

4.8% return ends up being the same between portfolios A and B.

retirement savings provide reliable income throughout retirement.

However, once in retirement even though we have an identical average return of 4.8%, we have a wide gap between the two

By proactively managing asset allocation, withdrawal strategies, and diversification, retirees can enhance the likelihood

in terms of dollars left after 20 years. The difference between

of financial security and peace of mind in their later years.

the contribution phase and the distribution phase is not merely

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a matter of saving versus spending. It requires thoughtful

10 // May 2025

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Gò0dNews for Everyone Study in Genesis: The Creation of Humans

“A

by Filip Brunner

nd God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over

the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth” *(Genesis 1:26 KJV).

Let’s Focus on Verse 26 God speaks. He issues a command as before and nothing happens. So, what is going on?

Man is a special creation different from anything else God has created thus far. The creation of Humankind requires additional steps.

1. Making of the human male was first.

God makes the man out of dust. “And the LORD God formed man of the dust of the ground, and

of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou

breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became

shalt surely die” (Genesis 2:16-17).

a living soul” (Genesis 2:7a).

C. For intimate socioeconomic and emotional union:

God is the potter: “But now, O LORD, thou art our

“And the rib, which the LORD God had taken

father; we are the clay, and thou our potter; and we all are

from man, made he a woman, and brought her

the work of thy hand“ (Isaiah 64:8).

unto the man” (Genesis 2:22).

God gives a clear understanding that He wants our

The creation of the woman is unique in that she is taken

relationship with Him to be a personal and intimate one. As

out of the man. There is a special connection between a man

the Potter, God molds and shapes us into the thing of beauty

and a woman.

He desires us to be. He takes time to remove impurities from

The creation of man and woman completes the creative

the clay. He adds water and pressure to make of us a fitting

work of God. While the creation of the man and the

image and likeness of His dear Son.

woman is different for both of them, the fact remains that

“For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus

humankind bears the image of God who created us. Their

unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we

union as husband and wife is blessed by God with these

should walk in them” (Ephesians 2:10).

words: “And God blessed them, and God said unto them,

2. The man is given responsibility by his creator.

A. For physical labor: “And the LORD God took the

‘Be fruitful, and multiply’” (Genesis 1:28a).

May this prompt you to continue to read and study

man, and put him into the garden of Eden to dress

about Creation. As the new year begins, renew your

it and to keep it” (Genesis 2:15).

commitment to studying the Scriptures.

B. For spiritual initiative: “And the LORD God

*All Scriptures are KJV.

garden thou mayest freely eat: But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat

12 // May 2025

About The Author

commanded the man, saying, Of every tree of the Filip Brunner is married to his wife, Dr. Kim Brunner and together they have six children.

He is a writer, author, and artist.

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Gò0dNews for Women

Why You Don’t Love Your Life

A

by Stephanie Stewart

s women, we are created to live purpose-filled

delight in the Lord, and he will give you your heart’s

lives, but most of us are so busy with the day-to-

desires. Commit everything you do to the Lord. Trust him,

day tasks of survival that we never discover what

and he will help you.”

that purpose is.

Our days are filled with things that have to be done, and

Just as the seasons in nature change, our seasons of life change. Clarity is the first step to creating a different life.

we’re told that we must balance our time so that we take

And if it aligns with God’s will, He’s thrilled to help you.

care of our own health, continue to grow both personally

3. Your “why” isn’t strong enough.

and spiritually while also having enough energy left over to do something fun once in a while. Striving for the perfectly balanced life is exhausting.

So, why aren’t we living that perfectly balanced life – a life we truly love? Let’s consider five things:

When you embark on a new journey, you have to start by asking yourself why you want to go there. If your reason isn’t strong enough, it’ll be easy to just give up.

4. You lack confidence.

If you’re not confident in yourself causing you to settle for a mediocre life rather than stepping out in faith and pursuing your dreams. However, confidence is a skill that you can cultivate, not a personality trait that you were either born with or without.

5. You’re not living with intention.

If you live in a constant state of busyness, you may never give yourself time to slow down and create a plan to reach your goals. But you can actually do more when you focus on doing less. You have to be able to scrutinize everything in your schedule so that you intentionally plan

1. You’re living in the past.

Your brain is naturally wired for survival. Your brain has proof that everything you went through to reach this point in life kept you alive. Its main job is to keep you safe, and it believes that the most efficient way to do that is for you to stay stuck in the past because you survived it.

Creating a new path for yourself requires energy, but your brain likes the path of least resistance. Once you understand how your brain works, you’ll be able to start

time for the things that are most important.

Create a Plan for Your Life While there may be many other reasons why you aren’t living a life you love, the good news is that you get to choose what comes next. Your destiny is your responsibility.

Don’t let your past, or other people, talk you out of becoming the woman that God created you to be.

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give

making choices from your prefrontal cortex (your logical

you hope and a future” – Jeremiah 29:11.

brain) and not stay stuck in the past.

This article was adapted for our format from Stephanie’s blog, www.stephaniestewartcoaching.com.

2. You don’t know what you really want. is because you’re not sure what you want. But God knows, and he’d love to hear it from you. Psalm 37:4-5 says, “Take

14 // May 2025

About The Author

One reason you may not be living a life you truly love Stephanie Stewart is a Certified Christian Life Coach and a Certified Professional Life Coach. You can find more of her writing and contact information at her blog, www.stephaniestewwartcoaching.com.

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Rome Church Directory

African Methodist Episcopal Bethel AME Church 22 Nichols Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-295-0019 St. James AME Zion Church 3 Maxwell Lane Rome, GA 30165 404-307-7396 Summer Hill AME Church 1981 Kingston Hwy NE Rome, Ga 30161 706-235-7113

Anglican

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

Apostolic

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

Assembly of God

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

Baptist

Antioch Baptist Church 4526 Big Texas Valley Rome, Ga 30165 706-232-7248 Armuchee Baptist Church 6648 Big Texas Valley Rd NW Rome, Ga 30165 706-235-3169 Berean Baptist Church 8 Skyline Dr Rome, Ga 30161 706-295-9832 Blue Pond Baptist Church 1291 Morrison Campground Rome, Ga 30161 706-235-3296 Bryant Chapel Baptist Church 24 Shady Lane Rome, Ga 30161 706-235-9768 Bush Arbor Baptist Church 3290 Black Bluff Rd Rome, Ga. 30161 770-885-0779 Calhoun Avenue Baptist Church 1021 Calhoun Ave Rome, Ga 30161 706-234-4431 Calvary Baptist Church 101 Broadus Rd NE Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-1461 Cedar 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

16 // May 2025

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

Beech Creek Methodist 2972 Alabama Hwy, Rome, Ga 30165 706-506-8980 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 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

goodnewscm.com // 17

Gò0dNews for Relationships

Praying for the One

W

by Katie Taylor

hen you’re young and in love, you think it

Eventually, my boyfriend and I broke up. It was one

will last forever. Sometimes it does, but it’s

of the worst heartbreaks I have ever experienced. But, the

hard to keep it strong when you’re growing

heartbreak was short-lived because God had brought me

up and changing and moving off to college. You feel like

solace. He brought me another opportunity at love, and this

you have control over everything and nothing at the same

time, it was the one.

time. You feel as though God is constantly handing you

The difference between the relationship with the man I

opportunities, but simultaneously showing you that He is

thought I would marry and the relationship with the man

always in control.

I knew I would marry was the certainty I felt. I had never

When I was younger I read a book called Praying for Your Future Husband. At first, reading that book felt like a

felt a feeling like this before and I knew this had to be something that God had sent me.

major cliche. Praying for your future husband, meeting someone who checks all your boxes, and making a list for what you hope your future husband will be like; is all something we learn in youth group and we’re encouraged to do to help strengthen our faith and help us understand patience.

In college, I thought that I met the man I was going to marry. He was a Christian; he loved me; he took care of me, and made me feel heard and understood. He was a reconnection from high school, a classic story. I had prayed for my husband, read the book, filled in the blanks, and there he was. We talked about marriage and kids, what our house would be like, and where we would live. We were long distance but making it work. I thought this was it and that

I will leave you with this. God will always lead us in the

I was done with the dating thing. That was until I met the

right direction. Sometimes we’ll take a detour and wonder if

man I knew I would marry.

we will ever get back on track. Everyone feels these feelings,

Yes, you read that correctly. I met the man I knew I

and I hope my story brings you peace with whatever may

would marry while dating the man I thought I would marry.

come your way. Patience is a tough thing to learn, but Jesus

It was a very scary and confusing feeling. I felt like I was

will lead you through to the other side.

living in some kind of bad romance novel.

I prayed, and prayed, and prayed again, for six months.

I knew this was a lesson in patience and a test of my faith, so I just had to let God handle it and do what I could do which was to pray and wait.

18 // May 2025

About The Author

I reread that book and it just made it all the more confusing.

Katie Taylor is a senior at Dalton State College. She will earn her bachelor’s degree in English in May. She lives with her husband Aaron, and their cat Rafiki in Ringgold, Georgia.

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ealth and wellness are more than just words.

blood flow, and as a result of increased blood flow, it can

They are a priority at The Herb Shop on Broad.

bring pain relief. It is very relaxing as well.

The staff at The Herb Shop on Broad is willing to

The Herb Shop offers a large selection of high-quality

work alongside anyone in their pursuit of being well. It is a

products that address any issue customers might be

journey, but it is well worth the effort.

experiencing. It is surprising, to say the least, when one

Larry is the owner of the shop. His interest in herbs

walks into the shop and sees all of the selection that is

and vitamins started when he was in high school. Linda,

offered! It is important to know that the products offered

who has worked alongside Larry, has been interested

are all high-quality, regularly tested products. The Herb

in alternative supplements for a very long time. She has

Shop offers products for every system of the body and

been challenged to learn about different supplements to

products for every concern. If you have problems with

aid her in her desire to obtain wellness. Larry and Linda

sleeping, pain, allergies, weight loss, stress, gut health,

have worked together since 2013. The shop itself opened in

digestion, weakened immune system, or inflammation, let

1987, and Larry has continued its legacy of offering quality

The Herb Shop suggest products that will be beneficial.

products, top-notch customer service, sharing knowledge,

The brands that you will find at The Herb Shop are of the

and making friends.

highest quality, and that is important to know.

Linda studied reflexology to increase her knowledge

In addition to The Herb Shop’s vast selection of

of the body and how it functions, but most of all to help

supplements, they also offer homeopathic remedies. You

others. Reflexology benefits the whole body by increasing

will find a complete selection of Newton’s Homeopathy as

20 // May 2025

well as Boiron. Newton’s offers remedies for children and adults in liquid and pellets. The pet products only come in liquid form.

Do you have any specific concerns, or do you just want to feel better, have more energy, and maybe lose a few pounds? Pay a visit to The Herb Shop. Any member of the staff is able and willing to help you.

If you want to dig a little deeper into your health concerns, The Herb Shop on Broad offers a Zyto scan.

This can be a very useful tool for determining what supplements would work best for an individual.

The herb business has definitely changed over the years, and The Herb Shop has done a great job of keeping up with the demands of change.

The Herb Shop offers shipping. If you live out of town and need supplements, give them a call. If your order totals $50 or more, you’ll receive free shipping!

Are you looking for local, raw honey? Look no further than The Herb Shop on Broad.

Are you looking for raw milk for those four-legged family members? The Herb Shop has it.

The Herb Shop on Broad offers a line of skin care products that are all natural. Larry says, “There are

absolutely no chemicals or water in them. Our soaps are chemical-free. Our skin is our largest organ, and it protects our internal organs. We must take care of it.

Bottom line, we are here for you, our customer. We value you, and we know that we wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for you. We are here to serve you.”

The Herb Shop is located at 103 Broad Street in Rome, GA 30161. The telephone number is 706-232-4447. The hours are 8:30 am to 6:00 pm Monday through Saturday, and Sunday noon to 6:00 pm.

What goals do you have concerning your health and well-being? Whatever they are, Larry and the staff at The Herb Shop on Broad can help. And tell them the folks at GoodNews sent you!

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HERB Shop

goodnewscm.com // 21

Gò0dNews for Seniors

Becoming an Overcomer

W

by Zebbie Brewster

hen I was a child growing up I remember

prayer. I want to hear every word my mom is praying

hearing my mom praying during the day. I am

aloud! It is awesome to still hear her calling our names in

thinking she would be in the back bedroom

prayer. She thanks God for us, that God has allowed her

praying while me and my two younger brothers were in

to still have her three children at her age and our ages. She

the living room and my dad would be at work. I am sure

thanks God for her home, health and healing.

she needed that quick moment alone with God. Even if

Something new she prays for is that God would help

we could not hear all she was praying, we knew what she

her to be an overcomer. It seems that her body is wearing

was doing. She was setting the example for us to know that

out and daily she faces the challenges of living in her

every day needed to be prayed about.

pain-filled body. So all those years ago when Mom set

It wasn’t long after that time that Mom started having

the example of praying daily for her children, she knew

some health problems. As a child I couldn’t do a lot to

that only with God’s help would we be able to make it

help, but I knew to pray. That brings to my memory that

through. We too would have families to pray for and about. Our lives have not been without their problems. Every night Mom thanks us for continuing to pray for her, as she says she sure needs the prayers. At my mom’s age there is not a whole lot she needs anymore in her life than heartfelt prayers. I don’t know where I would be without my mom’s prayers and I thank God for them. I too want to be an overcomer.

Webster defines overcomer as to conquer, to overpower, to get the better of. The Bible speaks of Jesus being our overcomer in John 16 verse 33 KJV, “These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye

at night before we went to bed, we had a family prayer

might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation:

time. We would bow on our knees next to the couch in the

but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.”

living room. We were all talking to God at the same time.

That was probably 60 years ago. The power of prayer has

Pray that you find God’s peace as you trust Him to help you overcome whatever life sends your way.

not changed.

Every night before I leave her to go home, we hold hands and pray. Most of the time, I am the one to lead us in

22 // May 2025

About The Author

My mom still reminds me to pray about everything.

Zebbie Brewster resides in Summerville, Georgia. She is an active member at Perennial Springs Baptist Church.

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Gò0dNews for Parents

Boundaries

T

by Mitch Jolly

he Lord performed the first wedding ceremony in

boundaries come from the nature of God. He defines

Eden for His image-bearing creatures Adam and

Himself as distinct from His creation by letting us know

Eve with the mission of filling the earth with other

He is holy. He defines for us what constitutes meeting His

image-bearers and ruling over creation as his co-regents. It is perhaps a little bit of an oversimplification, yet I believe the

standard of holiness. Holiness is a boundary.

Boundaries are a gift from God to us for order. Make

work from Genesis 1 can be placed into two large categories:

an effort to become aware of them, set them, and obey

Parenting and the vocational ordering of creation.

them. Teach your children to accept the “no” and grow in

Let’s study the outskirts of the parenting category by introducing boundaries as part of our parenting work.

truth. To either be unaware of or ignorant of boundaries is evidence we have to grow in the knowledge of God and

Why boundaries? Boundaries are part of the nature of God and boundaries are all over creation as God’s means of separating order from chaos. Some boundaries are built-in and naturally reward those who keep them or discipline those who break them.

Because of the curse of sin and the resulting chaos incited by the serpent, parenting is a continual struggle to create order physically, emotionally, and mentally by setting and keeping the right boundaries. Chaos is the work of the serpent. Order is the labor of God’s people through relationships, our homes, and the physical labor of creation’s domains.

One of the many tools the Lord gives us to multiply order and defeat chaos is the gift of boundaries. What is a

the knowledge of ourselves. This is why John says if we say

boundary? “Boundaries define us. They define what is me

we love God and hate our brother we don’t know God. To

and what is not me. A boundary shows me where I end and

say we are not aware of or don’t practice boundaries is to

someone else begins, leading me to a sense of ownership,”

admit we still don’t understand God’s standards, and thus

explains Dr. Cloud and Townsend, “Boundaries” p. 31.

we don’t understand humanity very well. As you parent,

Knowing what I am supposed to be responsible for and

challenge any instruction that dismisses “NO” as a good

what I am not responsible for is freeing. Are you aware of how

and healthy means of protecting and training children.

boundaryless we can be? Boundary-less-ness is a function of

As a parent, pursue what is true. Be a curious seeker of

darkness and the chaotic work of the Serpent. If I am willing

truth. Hide God’s word in your heart, and study all things

to own what I’m responsible for, God’s options for good are

to know what is true. Pass this curious seeking of truth on to

joyfully available. If I don’t own what I’m responsible for,

your children by including them in the search.

Physical boundaries are real. Spiritual boundaries are just as real, and because of the curse of sin, our spiritual blindness, and an active enemy who seeks to sow chaos, they are harder to perceive. Physical and spiritual

24 // May 2025

Don’t lose heart. Keep setting boundaries. Keep obeying the Lord. Lean on each other for support.

This article was adapted for our format from Pastor Jolly’s website, theologyinthedirt.com.

About The Author

good options get cut off, and I will receive corrections.

Mitch Jolly resides in Rome, Georgia. He can be reached at mitch@threeriversc.org.

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Gò0dNews for Kids

Frolicking Like a Calf

by Jan Merop

Hello, Kids! This article is part of our Chatty Critters series. Check in

T

future issues for another installment in this series. he green pastures tempted Frisky – again!

Glancing quickly over his shoulder, Frisky saw his mother happily grazing with the mama cows. He set aside

her warning not to stray too far from the other calves.

And, for the most part, he almost always obeyed.

Frisky thought, There’s just something about springtime and sunshine that makes me want to skip and jump and explore new places.

“I’m sorry, Mom. I know now that I was being careless and selfish. Please forgive me for making you worry.”

Then he admitted that the glowing sunlit grass looked too good to be true. And it was! “I’m saving my energy for the right pastures!” exclaimed Frisky.

Exploring Truth Through God’s Creation “The sun of righteousness (Jesus) will

Meanwhile, his mama and the other cows enjoyed God’s green

dawn on those who honor (respect)

grass where they were.

my name, healing radiating

“I try not to smother Frisk,” said his mom; “but he doesn’t

from its wings.

realize that his pure white coat is tempting to rustlers and can

You will be bursting with energy,

bring danger.”

like colts frisky and frolicking.”

“He is unusually beautiful,” said her friend. “One day he will

Malachi 4:2, The Message

understand your heart.”

She knew God had made calves with a frolicking nature. She pictured Frisky kicking up his heels delightedly when his stall was opened. His exuberance always brought a smile to her. She didn’t

The Calf and You

Have you ever been so happy that you wanted to kick up your heels, dance, and

want him to be fearful…just careful.

jump for joy?

She lifted her soulful brown eyes to check on him once

The Bible says that person is like a

more and discovered only tan, mottled, and black calves playing

frolicking calf that’s just been

together. Pure white Frisky was nowhere to be seen.

released from his stall.

Panic invaded her calm nature as she moved deliberately toward the pastures beyond the book. As she came closer, she began to moo a sound that her little calf knew very well.

Calves are portrayed as among the happiest of God’s creatures in the Bible.

Frisky was about to cross the brook when he noticed that the green, glowing grass was actually shiny, flat, and trampled. Then he saw men on horseback riding toward him.

His heart started beating faster

We’ve all been given at least one special Gift (like Frisky) and should treat it with care.

God will use it to help others know about Him. Seek truth and be full of care for the

and harder than ever before. The

Things that matter to God.

beat of it screamed D A N G E R!!!

Then you’ll be like a happy, carefree calf in

His mom’s persistent voice echoed

The Bible…leaping for joy!

in his mind.

Remember, when tempting things appear

“God has gifted you with an

too good to be true,

exceptionally white coat. Protect

they usually are

yourself from those who may

TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE!

want what you have.”

“Moo!!!” His mom’s cry alerted him. flying leap home.

Frisky and his mom nuzzled each other while he listened to her warnings again.

26 // May 2025

About The Author

Turning swiftly, he propelled his legs into a

Jan has been writing her weekly inspirational column, Pause...and Consider, for over 30 years, joyfully encouraging others in their Christian walk. She and her husband Ken have lived in Cleveland for about one year. They enjoy hospitality, Bible study, and walking and hiking in God’s marvelous creation. They have three married sons and five grandchildren and belong to the Church at Grace Point.

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

You Too

“Y

by Rodney Jones

ou too can be used,” said the donkey to

resurrection of Jesus Christ. That is the story of “good news”

her master.

that must be told. The task is monumental. The work is

This incredible story is found in Numbers

rewarding. YOU could be the instrument in the hand of God

22:21-33. It is one of those stories that is very hard to believe.

to save people from eternal doom. Don’t be afraid to tell it.

We all know that animals don’t talk. Well except in this case.

God will be with you. Time is running out.

This donkey not only spoke with a man’s voice, (2 Peter

Tell the story to everyone. Tell it often. Tell it, preach it,

2:16) but this donkey saw an invisible angel. God used this

or pass out a Gospel tract. Leave a tract at the grocery store.

donkey to rebuke Balaam, her master, and to even save

Give one to the mailman, police officer, or auto mechanic.

Balaam’s life from sure execution by the angel of the Lord;

“For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper

“…surely now also I had slain thee…”

than any two-edged sword….” (Hebrews 4:12).

God not only used a donkey in His work, but He also used birds. God used ravens to feed His prophet, Elijah.

I am going to Heaven for sure because someone I’ve never met left a Gospel tract in a grocery store where

“And the ravens brought him bread and flesh…” two times every day (1 Kings 17:4-6). God used a fish, “…a great fish, to swallow up Jonah” (Jonah 1:17).

God even used a perfect man once. God used Adam, before the fall, to name the animals and to name his help meet, Eve. It’s very hard for me to identify with being a perfect man. But thank the Lord He also uses imperfect, fallen people. God has used murderers, adulterers, and even idolators.

God used Balaam. He betrayed Israel and led them astray for money, and yet God used him. Moses murdered a man and yet God used him (Exodus 2:11-12). David committed adultery and had Bathsheba’s husband killed, and yet God used him (2 Samuel 11:1-

I worked. I got saved. My children got saved, and my

17). Solomon worshipped idols and yet God used him (1

grandchildren are getting saved. All because someone took

Kings 11:1-6). Saul of Tarsus executed Christians and put

the time and had the courage to leave a Gospel tract behind.

hundreds of people in prison and yet God used him in an

Get involved. The GREAT I AM needs you! You too can be

extraordinary way (Acts 8:1-3).

used! Thank God.

No matter your history God can use you in His work. recruiting for in this age is “soul-winning.” Preaching or telling or sharing the Gospel with every creature on earth (Mark 16:15). The Gospel is the death, burial, and

28 // May 2025

About The Author

Fact is He needs you in His work. The great task God is Rodney Jones is a retired police officer and is presently a housing and residence life staff member at the University of Tennessee, Chattanooga. Rodney is a member of Catoosa Baptist Tabernacle in Ringgold, Georgia.

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Gò0dNews for Discovering More

More Than a Paradigm Shift

couple years ago, my middle daughter and I visited a local Starbucks. We had orders for Joy and all three girls. A vanilla-bean frappuccino, two pink drinks, and a banana nut bread.

Have you ever gone through the drive-through at Starbucks and realized that it would’ve been faster to go inside? Or maybe go to Colombia and harvest the coffee beans yourself? Inside, time flies because you are people-watching, smelling the fresh-ground coffee, and listening to the whooshing sound of the drink machine as the baristas fulfill custom orders. It’s a magical playground for your senses.

But in the drive-through line, Starbucks feels like a race between a turtle and a snail, where no one wins.

That day, the line was even slower than usual. I tried to keep my patience because my impressionable, teenage daughter was with me. Keep in mind, I rarely order anything for myself from Starbucks. I was there purely out of love for my wife and children.

After working our way closer to the window, there were only two cars in front of us—and probably two hundred behind us, but that was their problem. I had suffered in the wilderness, now it was their turn.

I watched as the driver at the window paid for and then received her order. And then she remained at the window and ordered additional food, at least that’s what it looked like. Wait, what? That meant she had to pay again AND the staff must’ve been going crazy because now she had another order below all the other orders above her. This was not an efficient use of time, and it was unbelievably annoying.

I decided I’d use the opportunity to give Campbell a lesson in preparedness and courtesy. “This is taking a long time, and there are a lot of cars behind us,” I said. “Always remember when you place your order to get it right and keep it succinct as a courtesy to those behind you.”

Campbell nodded.

Finally, they drove away.

Now, only one car remained between us and our order.

I watched as they paid and just like the car in front of them, they talked with the window attendant for an unusually long time!

30 // May 2025

“Their order isn’t ready yet either?” I said.

A couple minutes passed, and the window attendant handed their order out the window. After taking her drinks, she continued to speak with the window attendant. Then she handed them her credit card—again!

“She must be adding to her order, too? What’s wrong with all these people?”

Eventually, they drove off.

As I approached the window and curtly handed the attendant my phone for the app, she said, “Oh, there’s no charge today. The person in front of you paid for your order.”

“Pardon me?”

“The person in front of you paid for your order. It’s been going for about a dozen cars now, ” she explained.

Ohhhh. Slow down, Garrett. Now that’s a paradigm shift.

“Well, I’d like to pay for the person behind me,” I said cheerfully. She gave me their total, charged it on the app, and off we went.

Quite a shift, in both my head and my heart. That’s MORE THAN. I have no idea how long that chain of kindness continued that day, but I’m sure at some point it ended— probably the guy by himself who looked in his rearview mirror and saw a Suburban full of hungry passengers.

I’d like to think it ended with someone who really needed the extra shot of kindness.

About The Author

A

by Garrett Nudd

Garrett Nudd serves as director of communications for AdventHealth Georgia. His recent book, MORE THAN: Discovering How Your Story Reveals God’s Beautiful Truth About You, challenges readers to shift their paradigm from less than to MORE THAN.

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Gò0dNews for your Taste Buds

C

Classic Juicy Beef Burgers

elebrate National Burger Day on May 28, 2025, with Classic Juicy Beef Burgers. This recipe is

Instructions

straightforward and focuses on making the perfect,

succulent burger with minimal fuss. Ideal for grilling or pan-frying, these burgers are sure to be a hit at any gathering or barbecue.

Ingredients

1. Prepare the Beef Patties:

• In a large bowl, gently mix the ground beef with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Be careful not to overwork the meat, as this can make the burgers tough.

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• Divide the meat into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a patty about ¾ inch thick. Use your thumb to make a small indentation in the center of each patty. This helps the burgers cook evenly and prevents them from puffing up in the center.

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

2. Cook the Burgers:

• 1 pound ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat) • 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon onion powder • 4 hamburger buns • Lettuce leaves • Tomato slices • Pickles • Ketchup and mustard (optional) • Sliced cheese (optional, like cheddar or Swiss)

• Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the patties on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or 6-7 minutes per side for medium. If adding cheese, place a slice on each patty during the last minute of cooking and close the grill lid to melt.

• Pan-Frying: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the patties and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or 6-7 minutes per side for medium. Add cheese during the last minute if desired.

3. Prepare the Buns:

• Toast the hamburger buns on the grill or in a skillet until lightly browned, about 1 minute.

4. Assemble the Burgers:

• Spread your desired condiments on the bottom half of each bun. Place a lettuce leaf, then the cooked beef patty, and top with tomato slices and pickles. Finish with the top half of the bun.

Tips for Success:

• For added flavor, you can season the outside of the patties with additional salt and pepper before cooking.

• To keep the burgers juicy, avoid pressing down on them while they cook.

32 // May 2025

SafeHaven RANCH A Home Where Kids Can Grow And Excel In A Christian Environment.

Jude 1:22

There’s a dusty dirt road off in some fields that looks like

have no place to call home. Safe Haven Ranch is dedicated

any other road of its kind in the South. But, it’s truly not

to demonstrating Christ's love by creating a nurturing

the same. It’s not the length or the condition or the age of

environment for children who have known great

this road that makes the difference, it’s the destination.

suffering. Our mission is to address both the physical and

This road leads to hope. There’s hope along that dusty dirt

spiritual needs of these children, providing them with the

road because Safe Haven Ranch for Boys is waiting at the

tools to overcome emotional and mental health challenges

end of it.

while sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Jason Slaughter of Community Share Ministries

“We aim to inspire and instill hope in the children

describes the road building, “We are building roads to

we serve, empowering them to grow and heal despite

make room for what God’s got coming. We don’t know

their difficult circumstances. Our organization believes

just who or just when but we know the children are

in building a strong sense of community and providing a

coming. We know God’s got something He’s working on

safe haven for children in need. Through our efforts, we

and we’re making room for it.”

strive to make a positive change in the lives of the children

The Safe Haven Boys Ranch is nestled in the

and families we serve, embodying the love of Christ in all

former Corn family farm. The Corn family never raised

that we do.”

children there. They raised animals and vegetables

Making a Difference

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

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.

Gò0dNews Poetry

Breathing in Faith

G

by Ben Johnson

Can you breathe in His word

You will want each step

It’s time to get started.

And exhale the sin?

To reflect His light.

Will you take a deep breath

I promise this can be

To guide those souls

And start the day wholehearted?

A great way to begin.

Lost in the night.

Sit up slowly

Fill your lungs with life,

Live through Him

But not leaving the bed.

A gift He gave you.

And your demons will cower.

You need to clear your mind

And live with the purpose

All evil knows His name

Let’s start by bowing your head.

He wanted you to.

And fears His power.

Close your eyes

Anything is possible

Let His love fill your heart

And remember the scripture.

With His light within.

And share it with stranger.

Jesus is our Lord and Savior,

You can move mountains

For the Savior of the world

He is who you should picture.

And be forgiven from sin.

Was born in a manger.

34 // May 2025

About The Author

ood morning…

Ben Johnson is an introspective, motivational, and confessional poet. He explores trauma, healing, emotional growth, and life appreciation.

His work delves into the human condition and highlights the unique challenges of modern Christianity, fatherhood, and neurodivergence.

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Gò0dNews for Health & Fitness

Musings on Fitness and Health and Why It's Important to Me

T

by Kirstin Reggel

ruly we are born with one body and given an

I am learning more about eating/fueling my body in a way

unknown amount of time on this side of heaven.

that promotes muscle growth and health, bone growth and

Yes, as Christians, we believe that we will be given

health, as well as maintaining a healthy gut which is the

a new form once Christ returns. For today, we are still on this mortal coil. At birth, we were given a set of DNA that

basis of the immune system.

Examples of quick and easy ways to do this start with

we did not have any control over or say so in, and also given

making sure I am getting enough water throughout the

an opportunity to live. How we treat and care for this body/

day. I keep what feels like my “emotional support” water

vessel can contribute to how it functions in the future. Most

bottle on me at all times, filling it up at work and at the gym.

of us want the same thing: to live with autonomy as long as

Another way is to eat a colorful and balanced plate with as

we can, to take care of ourselves and love and care for those

much whole food as possible. Lastly, if those cravings hit

around us, and then to pass on when this body is ready.

for something sweet, I will allow myself to have it and enjoy

Sometimes events in our life change what we think should happen to our bodies and taking care of them now

it…then move on from it.

The strength that we build in our 20s-30s will pay it

pays it forward to our future selves. Sometimes events

forward to our future selves in our 40s-50s and will continue

i.e. illnesses or accidents occur that drastically shift the

for decades later, as the Lord allows. I enjoy strength

course of what we think we should be on. The condition of

training. Yes, lifting heavy things can be empowering,

our bodies plays a large part in how we respond to those

functionally life-giving, and reduce the need for assistance

events. Recently my mind has been trying to care for my

from others for basic activities. But it's also fun! Music is a

body with food as fuel, shifting my mindset from trying to

huge part of the set up of the workout environment. It can

eat “right.” My knowledge has changed and grown from

provide timing and external cues to keep up with the beat as

the desire to be “thin,” “skinny,” or

well as provide distraction. Training is also more fun with a

“visually appealing” to “strong” and

friend or whole community like a class setting. I can tolerate

“confident.” Confidence, not in an

so much more when I have someone beside me. We can

arrogant manner, but confidence

encourage each other to continue and finish well.

that I am taking the best care of

Focusing on healthy living and taking care of our

myself and giving my body what

bodies reminds me of the parable in Matthew 25:14-30 NIV

serves it best to keep it running

of the master who gave talents to his servants, especially

and that it can tolerate those

verse 23, “His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful

outside stressors that act upon it.

servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your

About The Author

master’s happiness!”

36 // May 2025

Kirstin Reggel is a physical therapist, avid CrossFit enthusiast, and coach who loves the Lord. She lives near Rome, Georgia, and encourages others to focus on their fitness and health, both mental and physical.

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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.

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