Gò0dNews November 2021
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Contents NOVEMBER 2021
GoodNews from the Pastor’s Desk
6 Holiday Forgiveness by Stephen Baker
GoodNews for Kids
8 A Little Dog Named Rosie by Wendy Jenkins
GoodNews on Money Matters
10 How High is Too High? by Andrew Lee
GoodNews for Men
12 A Blessed Man’s Lasting Legacy
by Jonathon Wright GoodNews for Women
14 The Mantle
by Angie Bishop Forsyth
GoodNews for Life
18 Making The Most of The Moment
by Dorothy Teague GoodNews for Everyone
20 Without Delay
by Greg Grotewold
GoodNews Cover Story
22 Community Share Ministries by Jodi Varnado
GoodNews for Family
24 Well Seasoned
by Zebbie Brewster
GoodNews for Everyone
26 The Only Thing That Counts by Chuck Cleveland
GoodNews for Everyone
28 A Different Kind of Thanksgiving
by Dr. Alan Hix GoodNews for Everyone
30 Why Trials and Temptations? by Brian Edward Johnson
GoodNews for Everyone
32 Be A Light
6
by Stephanie Daniels
GoodNews for Travel
34 Wandering Through
Winchester, Kentucky
by Nicky Reynolds GoodNews for Everyone
36 Sacrifice of Thanksgiving by Gina Hooker
GoodNews Poetry
38 Changing
by Pamela Latham
22
GoodNews for Everyone
40 Those Dang Fire Ants by Beth Penny
GoodNews for your Taste Buds
42 Aunt Mildred’s Chicken Casserole
by Leslie Bennett
36
Gò0dNews from the Pastor’s Desk
Holiday Forgiveness
T
by Stephen Baker
he holiday season is an opportunity for many of
paid for that person’s sins on the cross. “Who his own self
us to spend special time with family. It is also an
bare our sins in his own body on the tree…” (1 Peter 2:24a).
occasion when deep-rooted wounds are opened and
That is why the Bible tells us to forgive one another for
hurt feelings are expressed anew. It is shameful that many
Jesus’ sake. “And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted,
Christian families are marred by bitterness and timeworn
forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath
sins that remain unforgiven. Jesus warned His disciples,
forgiven you” (Ephesians 4:32).
“But if ye do not forgive, neither will your Father which is in heaven forgive your trespasses” (Mark 11:26). Before we talk about what forgiveness is, it is important
Jesus said, “…Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you” (Matthew
to discuss what forgiveness is not. First, forgiveness
5:44b). Once, a friend asked me how she could get victory
is not forgetting. While God does not remember our
over bitterness towards a person who had hurt her family in
transgressions, “And their sins and iniquities will I remember no more” (Hebrews 10:17), our minds are largely incapable of forgetting everything evil that has happened to us. God chooses to forget our sins, but nowhere in Scripture does He require that of us. Second, forgiveness does not mean that we should abandon our desire for justice when someone has broken the law. The Bible says, “For rulers are not a terror to good works, but the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power?... But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil” (Romans 13:3a-4). For example, a man was sexually abused as a child. Should
a business deal. I advised her to pray for her enemy. After
he have no desire to see the person who did that horrible
doing this for a while, she said that God was taking the
crime face justice? Even if he chooses to forgive the abuser,
bitterness out of her heart. If God can do that when we pray
that does not mean that the abuser should escape the legal
for our enemies, how much more can He do this holiday
penalty for his or her offense.
season when we pray for our families? The holiday can be a
What does forgiveness mean? The basic idea of biblical
wonderful time, but it can also be a time of resentment. This
forgiveness is to let go of a debt. One of the reasons we
holiday season, let go of the debt that others owe you, and
stay bitter is because we keep an account of wrongs that
discover the peace of forgiveness through Jesus Christ!
people have done to us and expect them to pay us for those a payment. We let go of the debt that we believe the person owes us. We can do this because Jesus Christ has already
6 // November 2021
About The Author
wrongs. To forgive simply means that we no longer ask for Pastor Stephen Baker is the pastor of Harmony Baptist Church in Dalton, Georgia. www.harmonybconline.com
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Gò0dNews for Kids
A Little Dog Named Rosie here once was a little dog named Rosie. She was very loved by her master. Rosie’s master found her at a shelter. He chose her to be part of his family. She had one paw that was shorter than the others. He did not care about that. Rosie did not have to be perfect for him to love her. He loved her exactly as she was. She was a joy to him. Very first thing every morning, her master would bend over, pick her up, pet her, and tell her just how much he loved her—this was one of Rosie’s favorite times of the day. Her master was also her friend. They enjoyed each other’s company. He was mindful of where she was at all times. He knew when she was hungry, when she wanted to play, and when she just needed to rest. He took very good care of her. Throughout the day, her master would sing to her. Sometimes, the songs were silly. Sometimes, the songs were serious. They were either about her or for her enjoyment. He always had a song on his heart just for her. Sometimes, Rosie would get muddy and dirty. He would pick her up out of the dirt, knowing he would get dirty
8 // November 2021
himself. He would give her a good cleaning. All was right in her world once again. At night, Rosie slept under his arm. She was perfectly safe when she stayed close to him. Her master loved her, and she loved him. Did you know that Jesus wants to be your Master? He wants to do for you as Rosie’s master did for her. How do we know this? Because He tells us in His Word. The Bible is always true—we can believe what it says. He wants you to be part of His family: Ephesians 1:5 says, “Long ago, he already decided to accept us into his family as his children, because of Jesus Christ. He chose us to belong to him because it made him very happy” (Easy English Bible). Jesus calls those who follow Him “friend”: John 15:15 says, “…I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you” (NIV). God knows all about you: Psalm 139:3 says, “You see me when I go out, and you see me when I stay at home. You know everything that I do!” (Easy English Bible). He even sings for you: “The Lord, your God, is with you. He is strong, He will save you. He will be very happy about you! He will quietly love you. He will sing, because he is so happy about you!” (Zephaniah 3:17, Easy English Bible). When we do things that God does not want us to do, our heart becomes dirty. God sent His son Jesus to clean us up: “Jesus is the way our sins are taken away. And he is the way all people can have their sins taken away too” (1 John 2:2, ERV). Jesus was God’s way of stooping down and telling us just how much He loves us. You are even more precious to Him than Rosie was to her earthly master. And that is very, very precious!
About The Author
T
by Wendy Jenkins
Wendy Jenkins is a pastor’s wife, a mom to a college graduate, and a momma to their miniature long haired chihuahua, Rosie.
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How High is Too High? 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.
A
s of this writing, the Dow Jones Industrial
I’ve heard the same phone callers over and over on
Average of thirty large U.S. stocks closed at
many different financial radio shows and podcasts, and
35,294, which is very close to its historical highest
these frantic callers all say this: “Since the stock market is at
ever closing price set just two months ago in August 2021.
a new all-time high, I’m nervous about getting in now since it
Many people seem shocked (as always) that the stock
has nowhere to go from here but down, and I don’t want to lose
market has rebounded so quickly from its “plunge” in
my money.” Let’s analyze this assertion, shall we? First, the
the past two weeks due to investor anxiety over inflation,
stock market is almost always at a new all-time high! Check
unemployment, and whether Congress would vote to
a calendar and track the stock markets highs and lows over
raise the nation’s debt ceiling to keep the government
the past century; new “highs” are not only frequent, but
functioning. Well, the market is back up, temporarily
they are also inevitable. So, the odds are, on any given day
at least, rebounding as it always does. In fact, the stock
or week or month, the market may very well be at a “new
markets go up much more often than they go down, which
all-time high.” Secondly, we have the caller’s assertion that
should be obvious with the Dow Jones climbing from
since the stock market is way “up,” it has nowhere to go
10,000 in 1999 to over 35,000 today. This should be great
but down. Not true. It may very well (and often does) keep
news, right? But here’s the irony…
going “up” for long periods of time. When stock markets
As stock markets have risen, often soaring, to new
drop (and they will, of course), they will very likely stop
record “highs” month after month and year after year
dropping at a level well above where “Nervous Nelly”
for the past few years, many investors are growing
investors would have liked to “jump back in” to the market
increasingly anxious. Why? Because they fear the next big
to make their “killing.” Then there’s the phone caller’s final
drop is right around the corner! This resembles Chicken
assertion above, “I don’t want to lose my money.” This is
Little’s plaintive cry of “the sky is falling.” Sure, the
the clear indicator of an attempt at “market timing” where
markets will drop again (and again), and they might fall
investors hope to “get in” (buy) when stock prices are down
by quite a bit for a “correction” (10%-20% decline) or a
and then “get out” (sell) when prices hit a new all-time high.
“bear” market of more than a 20% decline. But the stock
Who wouldn’t want to do this? But market timing is a fool’s
markets will go back up, and they will keep going up far
errand, with most losing money on this “strategy.” Just set
more frequently than they go down, if history has taught
it and forget it; leave your stock investments alone for the
us anything. (“Past performance is no guarantee of future
long term and smile as the market regularity hits new highs.
results,” as we are often told in legal disclaimers; but the
Investors who frequently move in and out of stock markets
world’s population keeps growing over time, and so does
incur higher costs, taxes, and end up making less money
the value of the stock markets. Maybe they’re correlated).
over time. “Whoever is patient has great understanding”
10 // November 2021
(Proverbs 14:29).
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Gò0dNews for Men
A Blessed Man’s Lasting Legacy
lessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on His law day and night” (Psalms 1:1-2). Charles Spurgeon lived from 1854-1892. He was raised in a family of preachers. Despite the fact that his parents kept him from gross sin, he still felt the sting of sin and despised who he was early in life. He did not see God as loving and was constantly mindful of his shortcomings. Spurgeon, during this time, found his way to a Methodist church where the pastor was preaching from Isaiah 45:22: “Turn to me and be saved, all you ends of the earth; for I am God, and there is no other.” You only have to look to the Lord and be saved. Those simple words gripped his heart and thus began a loving relationship with his precious Savior. Salvation was no longer something he had to earn or achieve; he just looked to the Lord and was saved. Spurgeon preached his first sermon at the age of sixteen, and by the age of nineteen, was the pastor of a church in London that became the biggest Baptist church in Great Britain. This church would later become the largest independent church in the world. He preached to over 10 million people in his lifetime. His recorded sermons are an estimated 20-25 million words and sixty-three volumes long. It still stands today as the largest library in the history of Christianity, and that does not even include his books, other materials, and songs he produced. Spurgeon was a man noted for his love for the poor. He started an orphanage and established sixty ministries at his church in London. However, he was also a man of controversy. He preached during a time when Charles Darwin and other academic professionals questioned the validity of the Bible. In response to Darwin, he preached a message in a gorilla suit. His message was about the Gorilla man and the land he inhabits. The media often criticized him for his stance against the great philosophical minds of his time—people either loved or hated him. After over thirty years of ministry, Spurgeon decided it best to sever his ties with the Baptist Union and become an independent church. This ordeal was known
12 // November 2021
as the Downgrade Controversy. He felt the church had downgraded the basic fundamental truths of the Bible. There are a lot of historical questions about what exactly happened and how this drama unfolded. I believe he was misunderstood, but through it all, he never let go of his personal faith in Jesus Christ and his love for the Word of God. He was a true picture of the Blessed man described in Psalms 1, who lived by and delighted in the Word of God. It took him twenty years to produce the Treasury of David. I am currently enjoying his book on the Holy Spirit. Would Spurgeon have left such a legacy had he and others not been faithful and recorded it all? God’s words through him and others continue to reach beyond this earthly life and touch our world today. I believe these are some of the major keys to leaving a lasting legacy for God.
About The Author
“B
by Jonathon Wright
Jonathon Wright currently lives in Cleveland, Tennessee, and has been a member of the Church of God for about twenty years. He is a graduate of Lee University and Beacon University where he earned a BA and MA in Biblical Studies. He loves studying the Bible and has done so for over thirty years, but only now has God given him a desire and the opportunity to be a writer. He is currently beginning the process of writing a book on Genesis entitled, God’s Good Prophetic Plan: From Beginning to End.
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Jennifer Eivaz is a minister and international conference speaker with a heart to equip the church in the supernatural and for raising up passionate and effective prayer. She is a regular contributor to Charisma Online and The Elijah List, has been featured on several Christian television shows, hosts the popular podcast Take Ten With Jenn, and authored several bestselling books. Jennifer and her husband, Ron, co-pastor Harvest Church, now meeting in three locations—two campuses in Turlock, California, and one campus in Ripon, California, in addition to hosting a thriving online campus. They also have two wonderul children.
Gò0dNews for Women
The Mantle
W
by Angie Bishop Forsyth
ho out there loves a good project? I do, that’s a
My mantle has a purpose and by keeping it cared for, it
fact! Yesterday, I was prepping my fireplace to
will serve its purpose for years to come. If I let it go, it will
do a technique called German Shmear. I thought
not only age but lose its luster, getting ragged and worn out.
to myself, before I jump right in and do the fireplace, the
This is how our spiritual lives are as well. We have purpose
mantle could use a nice fresh coat of white paint. It had
and God certainly cares for us!
dulled from all the years it has been there and the soot that settled on it from the natural gas logs.
The difference between these two things is, we must be intentional with God to get from Him what we need. Trust me when I say life will break you down. We get worn out, ragged, and lose our luster. Circumstances in life do that, but if we go to God, He will clean us up! If you are lost, He will give you life! If you are saved and beat down by life or choices, God will restore you too if you just run to Him! Our never-changing, sweet God wants to apply fresh strokes of restoration back into your life! I hope you will let Him. My mantle turned out beautifully. I am so pleased with how fresh and clean it looks! If I can do that with just a can of paint and a paintbrush, then can you imagine the transformation
I grabbed my paintbrush, cracked open the can of paint,
God can make in you when you cry out to Him in need
and began brushing on that fresh white paint. Wow! I did
of restorative care. We serve the sweetest Creator, who
not realize it was needed that bad until I saw the new fresh
did, who does, and who will. He tells us, “Come to me, all
strokes being applied. As I was painting, I heard the sweet
who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest”
whisper of the Holy Spirit say to me, “Much like this mantle,
(Matthew 11:28). Won’t you trust in His everlasting promise
this is what God does for you.” I just smiled from ear to ear
to care for you?
after that. I was made aware that like that mantle, time takes its toll on us as people. We may appear to be okay to the
“Father God, you who makes all things new and brings beauty from our ashes: bind up my broken heart, proclaim freedom over my life, and restore my soul!”
eyes of everyone else, but we need restoring from time to that we have wear and tear in our lives and that we need rejuvenating. Who better to do that than God!
14 // November 2021
About The Author
time. We need a fresh coat of paint! We often do not realize Angie Bishop Forsyth is a local of Rome, GA, for 30+ years. She is just a simple lady with a heart that chases after God! Angie loves to share about Him anywhere she can. God has blessed her in tremendous ways, and she not only loves to tell about it, Angie lives to tell about it!
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Rome Church Directory
African Methodist Episcopal Bethel AME Church 22 Nichols Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-295-0019 St. James AME Zion Church 3 Maxwell Lane Rome, GA 30165 404-307-7396 Summer Hill AME Church 1981 Kingston Hwy NE Rome, Ga 30161 706-235-7113
Anglican
St. Andrew’s Anglican Church 42 Ash Street Rome, Ga 30161 706-235-5892
Apostolic
First Apostolic Church of Rome 3213 Cave Spring Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-235-9551
Assembly of God
Redemption Church 105 Broadus Road NE Rome, Ga 30161 706-232-0277
Baptist
Antioch Baptist Church 4526 Big Texas Valley Rome, Ga 30165 706-232-7248 Armuchee Baptist Church 6648 Big Texas Valley Rd NW Rome, Ga 30165 706-235-3169 Berean Baptist Church 8 Skyline Dr Rome, Ga 30161 706-295-9832 Blue Pond Baptist Church 1291 Morrison Campground Rome, Ga 30161 706-235-3296 Bryant Chapel Baptist Church 24 Shady Lane Rome, Ga 30161 706-235-9768 Bush Arbor Baptist Church 3290 Black Bluff Rd Rome, Ga. 30161 770-885-0779 Calhoun Avenue Baptist Church 1021 Calhoun Ave Rome, Ga 30161 706-234-4431 Calvary Baptist Church 101 Broadus Rd NE Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-1461 Cedar Valley Baptist Church 3024 Cedartown Hwy SW Rome, Ga 30161 706-295-0978 Community Chapel Baptist Church 3733 Black Bluff Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-232-4070 Desoto Park Baptist Church 1107 Cave Spring Rd. Rome, Ga 30161 706-232-6207 Dykes Creek Baptist Church 3181 Kingston Hwy NE Rome Ga, 30161 706-291-7790
16 // November 2021
East Rome Baptist Church 601 Cedar Ave Rome, Ga 30161 706-234-8553 East View Baptist Church 901 Kingston Ave Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-8250 Emmanuel Baptist Church 1414 Old Dalton Rd Rome, Ga 30165 706-232-3939 Enon Baptist Church 3105 Turkey Mountain Rome, Ga 30161 706-295-5052 Fairview Baptist Church 2348 Old Cedartown Hwy SE Lindale, Ga 30147 Fellowship Rome Baptist Church 314 Burnett Ferry Rd Rome, Ga 30165 706-234-9416 First Baptist Church 100 E 4th Ave Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-6850 Flatrock Baptist Church 848 Cunningham Rd SW Rome, Ga 30161 706-234-9976 Flint Hill Baptist Church 3578 Wax Rd SE, Aragon, GA 30104 706-232-8121 Friendship Baptist Church 2283 Calhoun Rd NE Rome, Ga 30161 706-295-4803 Garden Lakes Baptist Church 2200 Redmond Cir Rome, Ga 30165 706-234-6615 Greater Mount Calvary Baptist 445 East 14th St Rome, Ga 30161 706-234-5047 Hill Crest Baptist Church 2202 N Broad St Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-8806 Hollywood Baptist Church 112 Lombardy Way Rome, Ga 30161 706-234-6642 In Focus Baptist Church 12 N Hughes Rome, Ga 30165 706-234-8963 Lakeview Baptist Church 80 Salem Dr Rome, Ga 30165 706-235-2149 Lovejoy Baptist Church 436 Branham Ave Rome, Ga 30171 706-232-1917 McFall Baptist Church 3011 Rockmart Rd SE Rome, Ga 30161 706-235-5673 Mount Alto Church 1915 Huffaker Rd NW Rome, Ga 30165 706-232-6222 Mount Carmel Baptist Church E 20th St Rome, Ga 30161 706-232-8777 Mount Olive Baptist Church 17 E Pennington Rome, Ga 30161
706-234-6413 New Antioch Baptist Church 4553 Calhoun Rd NE Rome, Ga 30161 706-295-2248 New Bethel Baptist Church Weathington Dr Rome, Ga 30161 706, 291-8939 New Canaan Baptist Church 3 Excelsior St Rome, Ga 30165 706-291-1984 New Hope Baptist Church Hwy 156 Rome, Ga 706-235-0250 New Hope Baptist Church 399 Moran Lake Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-290-0507 North Broad Baptist Church 1309 N Broad St Rome, Ga 30161 706-295-2100 Northwood Missionary Baptist 4076 Calhoun Rd NE Rome, Ga 30161 Park Ave Baptist Church 531 Park Ave SE Lindale, GA 30147 Parkview Baptist Church 4 Wesley Drive Rome, Ga 30165 706-232-4431 PisGah Baptist Church Alabama Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-232-4431 Pleasant Hope Baptist Church 5935 Rockmart Road SE Silver Creek, Ga 706-235-2800 Pleasant Grove Baptist Church 500 N Division St Rome, Ga 30165 706-235-0731 Pleasant Valley North Baptist 735 Old Summerville Road NW Rome, GA 30165 706-232-6426 Pleasant Valley South Baptist 702 Pleasant Valley Rd SE Silver Creek, Ga 30173 706-234-1841 Providence Baptist Church 17 Burnett Ferry Road SW Rome, Ga 30165 706-291-0689 Riverside Baptist Church 48 Ash Street Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-8114 State Line Baptist Church 8536 Black Bluff Road Cave Spring, Ga 30124 678-988-0339 Saint Paul Baptist Church Pleasant Valley Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-235-5037 Second Avenue Baptist 823 E 2nd Ave Rome, Ga 30161 706-232-3663 Shannon First Baptist Church 400 Fourth Street, PO Box 997, Shannon, GA 30172 Sherwood Forest Baptist Church 1 Goodman Rd Rome, Ga 30161
706-291-6174 Shorter Avenue Baptist Church 1410 Shorter Ave Rome, Ga 30165 706-234-8266 South Broad Baptist Church 508 South Broad St Rome, Ga 30161 Spring Creek Baptist Church 2636 Chulio Rd SE Rome, Ga 30161 706-234-1220 Springfield Baptist Church 113 Smith St Rome, Ga 30161 706-295-7217 Thankful Baptist Church 935 Spider Webb Dr Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-8132 Three Rivers Church 2960 New Calhoun Highway NE Rome, Ga 706-766-0942 Trinity Baptist Church 1728 Calhoun Rd NE Rome, Ga 30161 706-295-3368 Turner Chapel Baptist Church 756 Turner Chapel Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-235-8682 Unity Baptist Church 2261 Pleasant Valley Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-232-2184 West End Baptist Church 107 Mississippi Dr Rome, Ga 30165 706-235-1971 West Rome Baptist Church 914 Shorter Ave Rome, Ga 30165 706-232-9722 Wilkerson Road Baptist Church Wilkerson Rd Rome, Ga 30161 Woodlawn Baptist Church 1649 Cartersville Hwy SE Rome, Ga 30161 706-232-4171 Word & Way Baptist Church New Rocketmart Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-234-8729
Catholic
Saint Mary Catholic Church 911 N Broad St Rome, Ga 30161 706-295-7014
Christian & Missionary Alliance
Missionary Alliance 306 Coker Dr Rome, Ga 20165 706-235-9190
Church of Christ
Church of Christ 108 E Callahan St Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-0675 Lindale Church of Christ 3035 Maple Road Lindale, Ga 30147 706-234-3027 Oak Hill Church of Christ 1500 Martha Berry Hwy Rome, Ga 20165 706-291-0351
Rome Church of Christ 121 Primrose Road Rome, Ga 30161 706-234-4444
Church of God
Armuchee Church of God 4974 Martha Berry Hwy Rome, Ga 30165 706-232-4414 Beech Creek Church of God 3000 Alabama Hwy NW Rome, Ga 30165 706-234-7466 Church of God of Prophecy 94 Huffaker Rd. Rome, GA 30165 706-528-4225 Lindale Church of God 585 Park Ave Lindale, Ga 30147 706-232-5676 New Life Church of God 210 E 18th St Rome, Ga 30161 706-232-0704 New Hope Overcoming Church of God 200 Nixon Ave Rome, Ga 30161 706-234-4695 North Rome Church of God 1929 N Broad St Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-6687 Rome AOH Church of God 504 Decatur St Rome, Ga 30165 706-295-2999 West Rome Church of God UA 2827 Alabama Hwy Rome, Ga 30165 706-880-6895
Disciples of Christ
First Christian Church 209 E. Second Ave, Rome, Ga 30161
Episcopal
Church of the Transfiguration 304 Coker Dr Rome, Ga 30165 706-234-0197 Saint Peter’s Episcopal Church 101 E 4th Ave Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-9111
Foursquare
Rome Foursquare Church 308 Reservoir St NE Rome, Ga 30161
Full Gospel
Christ Gospel Church 619 Chulio Rd SE Rome, Ga 30161 706-234-7744
Independent Bible
Grace Bible Church 614 Dalton Rd NE Rome, Ga 30165
Interdenominational
Cornerstone Church 324 Mathis Dr Rome, Ga 30165 706-234-4923 Renovation Church 2601 Shorter Ave. Rome, Ga 30165 706-936-1380
Latter-day Saints
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 3300 Garden Lakes Pkwy Rome, Ga 30165 706-235-2281
Lutheran
Holy Trinity Lutheran Church 3000 Garden Lakes Blvd Rome, Ga 30165 706-232-7257
Methodist
Beech Creek UMC 2972 Alabama Hwy, Rome, Ga 30165 706-235-4973 Chapel Hill UMC 1818 Kingston Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-232-9177 Holsey Sinai CME Church 1233 Martin L King Rome, Ga 30161 706-295-7265 Lindsay Chapel UMC 9 College Park Dr SW Rome, Ga 30161 Livingston UMC 21 E Lakeshore Dr SE Rome, Ga 30161 Metropolitan UMC 700 Broad St Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-8660 Mt Pleasant UMC 4782 Alabama Hwy Rome, Ga 30165 706-232-4350 New Bethel Methodist Church Reeceburg Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-235-9700 North Rome UMC 706-291-6704 Oostanaula UMC 74 Battey Farm Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-292-0084 Rome First UMC 202 E 3rd Ave Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-8590 Rush Chapel UMC 1225 Rush Chapel Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-7986 Scott Chapel UMC 3 Chambers St NE Rome, Ga 30161 Second Avenue UMC 801 E Second Ave SW
Rome, GA 30161 Shannon UMC 600 First Street Shannon, GA 30172 706-491-7112 Silver Creek UMC 36 Reeceburg Rd SE Silver Creek, GA 30173 706-234-2518 South Broad UMC 546 S Broad St Rome, Ga 30161 706-232-5230 Trinity UMC 606 Turner McCall Blvd SW Rome, Ga 30165 706-291-0033 Wesley Chapel UMC 9 College Park Dr SW Rome, Ga 30161 West Rome UMC 1003 Shorter Ave PO Box 2247 Rome, GA 30164 706-234-6214
Nazarene
Rome First Church of the Nazarene 20 Glenda Dr Rome, Ga 30165 706-234-5023
Non-Denominational
Access Church 1905 Calhoun Rd Rome, Ga 30161 705-584-7497 Christian Church at Rome 2417 Shorter Ave Rome, GA 30165 706-235-0501 Glorious New Jerusalem Church 537 W 12th St Rome, Ga 30165 706-295-2045 Glory Tabernacle Church 300 Watson St Rome, Ga 30165 706-235-0888 Gospel Harvester Church 1246 Cartersville Hwy SE Rome, Ga 30161 706-290-9858 LIFE Church of Rome 19 John Davenport Drive Rome GA 30165 706-728-3166 Lighthouse Church of Rome Lighthouse Dr SE Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-0864 New and Living Way Bible Church 59 Dykes Creek Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-233-9200 Northside Church 75 N. Floyd Park Rd. Rome, Ga 30165 706-233-9896 Rally Up International Ministries 2460 Shorter Avenue Rome, Ga 30165 706-235-8561 Solid Holy Rock Deliverance Tabernacle 700 Kingston Ave
Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-8948 The Church at Rome 246 North 5th Avenue Rome, Ga 30165 706-346-2733 The Place Global 1107 Calhoun Ave Rome, Ga 30161 706.802.2059 Trinity United Christian Church 6 Deer Run Trail Rome, Ga 30165 706-204-8270 We The Church 810 East 2nd Ave Rome, Ga 30161 Words of Faith Tabernacle 3134 Rockmart Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-314-9158
Orthodox
All Saints Church 615 Cleveland Ave Rome, Ga 30165 706-378-4474
Pentecostal
Cannon Temple Holiness Church 308 Porter St Rome, Ga 20161 706-233-9001 Christ Temple Holiness Church 1321 Martin L King Rome, Ga 30161 706-235-3787 Victory Temple Of Joy 118 Williamson St. Rome, Ga 30165 706-766-3865
Presbyterian
Covenant Presbyterian Church EPC 1645 Cartersville Hwy. Rome, GA 30161 706-767-8373 First Presbyterian Church EPC 101 E 3rd Ave Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-6033 Seven Hills Fellowship 530 Broad Street Rome, GA 30161 706-530-1630 Silver Creek Presbyterian Church 6 Old Rockmart Road Silver Creek, Ga 30173 706-234-6862 Westminster Presbyterian Church 1941 Shorter Ave Rome, Ga 30165 706-235-8561
Seventh-Day Adventist
Rome Bethany Seventh-Day Adventist Church 307 E 14th St SW Rome, Ga 30161 706-292-0067 Seventh-Day Adventist Church 2526 Cedartown Hwy SW Rome, Ga 30161 706-234-4117
Cave Spring Church Directory
Cave Spring Church of God 19 Mill Street Cave Spring, GA 30124 706-777-8348 Cedar Creek Baptist Church 5440 Black Buff Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-777-8360
Live Oak Baptist Church 5506 GA-100 Cave Spring, GA 30124 706-777-8566 The Empty Tomb 5630 Fosters Mill Rd SW Cave Spring, GA 30124 Rehoboth Missionary Baptist
6 Rehoboth Rd SW Cave Spring, GA 30124 706-777-3313 First Baptist Church 4 Old Cedartown Rd. Cave Spring, GA 30124 706-777-3566 Cave Spring UMC
30 Alabama Street Cave Spring, GA 30124 706-777-8624 Jackson Chapel UMC 301 Jackson Chapel Rd Cave Spring, GA 30125 706-777-3750
goodnewscm.com // 17
Gò0dNews for Life
Making The Most of The Moment
M
by Dorothy Teague
y oldest son had special needs and my days were
be careful how we spend our time and ask for the wisdom of
full of endless tasks to give him a quality of life.
God to direct our lives and activities. Ephesians 5:15-16 says,
When I would get completely exhausted, I began
“Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise, but as
asking God for a weekend to myself, then just a day, then
wise, making the most of every opportunity.” We know, as
a night to sleep. As our life went on, I found myself just
Christians, that any day could be our last here on this earth,
asking God for a “moment.” A moment to myself to think
so it is important to use our time wisely. Sharing the good
straight, to enjoy a sunset, a moment to be “me” instead of
news of Jesus, loving one another, and doing good deeds are
caregiver, mom, and wife. I began thanking God for each
but a few of His commands. I once wrote a song called “No
tiny, precious moment He gave me. I soon found that the more I appreciated each of those times, the more I felt at peace with the road God had given me to walk down. Don’t get me wrong—it was hard. While I was planning my way, the Lord was establishing my steps (Proverbs 16:9) in the plan that He had for me. Even before I was a mother, I had a habit of rushing through my life without enjoying the moment I was in, always thinking about what was on the horizon. Psalm 118:24 tells us that “This is the day the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it.” We cannot
Ordinary Days.” Truly, every day that God gives us is an
afford to not be present in each moment of our lives. There
extraordinary day and we should want to do good with each
are golden nuggets in each day that will pass us by if we
one we are given (Psalm 37:3) to give glory back to Him.
are too busy thinking of what we are going to do next. I
Time is so fleeting. We all have an expiration date on
hate to admit it, but I have always been a worrier, but the
our lives. So, while we are here, we should make the most
Word admonishes us in Matthew 6:34 to “not worry about
of all our moments. We cannot do anything about the past;
tomorrow.” There is a reason our time is segmented into
it is gone. We cannot do anything about the future; it is in
days and nights. God knew how much we could handle at
God’s hands. All we can do is live fully and completely
one time.
each moment we are given in the present. Time is a gift He
not waste a moment of our lives either. James 4:14 reminds us that our life is a vapor, here for a little while, then it is gone. That verse drives the point home to me that we should
18 // November 2021
gives us each day to open and enjoy and glorify Him with our lives. About The Author
While we should not rush through our lives, we should
Dorothy Teague is a Tennessee native, who resides in McMinn County with her husband, Lewis, on their farm. After completing 31.5 years as a teacher in the Bradley County School System, she is active in her church at Eastanallee Baptist Church where she is a member of the choir and praise team.
Church Activities & Events Rome City Auditorium
Breaking Strongholds Conference Saturday, November 6 | 1PM - 5PM 601 Broad St, Rome, GA 30161
Cedartown Performing Arts Center Cedartown Women’s Bible Seminar Saturday, November 13 | 5PM - 9:30PM 205 East Ave, Cedartown, GA
Rally UP International Church & Ministries Reset Weekend
Saturday, November 13 - Sunday, November 14 2460 Shorter Ave NW, Rome, GA 30165
First Baptist Church Cave Spring Thanksgiving Dinner
Sunday, November 21 | 6PM - 7PM 4 Old Cedartown Rd, Cave Spring, GA 30124
Gò0dNews for Everyone
Without Delay recently took my first business trip since the onset of the pandemic. I was a little concerned whether I would still remember how to navigate the challenges that travel inevitably presents. It had been, after all, eighteen months since the last time I boarded a plane. To my relief and somewhat surprise, the old routine kicked right in. Everything about the trip went as planned. Well, almost. Early for a supper engagement on one of the evenings, I was waiting downstairs in the hotel lobby. As I was standing there, I could see a retired couple walking towards me down this long corridor. They were moving slow, unusually so. Once they got a bit closer, I could see why. The woman’s arm was in a sling, and she was carefully nursing it. As they approached, this overwhelming feeling to engage them came over me. This feeling was not an aberration, for I have experienced countless promptings in prior travel to initiate a conversation with perfect strangers. What I did with it this time, however, was rather than allow my introversion to suppress the desire, I heeded the call. For the next fifteen minutes, the woman and I had a wonderful talk. She outlined her many physical ailments and some pain connected to not seeing her adult granddaughter on a more regular basis. The woman left encouraged, as I could tell she appreciated my genuine interest and concern. I left torn. On one hand, I was thrilled that I obeyed the Spirit’s direction. Starting a dialogue was not nearly as difficult as I had expected. I now feel empowered to do more of it. But I only surrendered in part. He was calling me to share the gospel. I did not and could feel the guilt beginning to build. Enter the second aberration. Past failures like this one would typically cause a great deal of emotional dissonance. The angst would start with me replaying the scenario over and over in my head. It would them morph into selfrepudiation as I identified with excruciating detail all of the various points where I could have—should have—obeyed Jesus. But I did not do that here. Instead, I went to the Lord without delay and quickly surrendered my remorse. In doing so, I could feel almost instantaneously His forgiveness and reassurance wash over me. He put Romans 8:1 on my
20 // November 2021
heart: “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus” (ESV). There is not a sweeter verse in all of Scripture on which to ruminate after a trespass. Yes, Jesus commands me to share the gospel. Yes, it grieves Him when I do not. And yes, I too should grieve over the failure—the truly blood-bought take seriously their life’s aim of pleasing the Savior. But that does not mean I
should be stuck in some perpetual state of regret. The Lord wants me to repent and be released from such a burden so I can move forward. He is, after all, a God of great grace. “The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end” (Lamentations 3:22, ESV). Because of these ceaseless mercies, I can approach Him with confidence regardless of circumstance knowing, tenderness, not judgment, awaits me (Hebrews 4:16, ESV). The key is to do so quickly. We ought to take our sin and seek Jesus’s forgiveness without delay. There is no reason to wait—the sooner we approach Him, the quicker the mercies will flow. We will not only stave off a lot of unnecessary grief but we will be in a better position to honor the Lord for that next opportunity around the corner.
About The Author
I
by Greg Grotewold
Greg Grotewold lives in Oakdale, MN, with his wife, Sandi, and their two sons, Luke and Eli. He is a deacon in his local church and greatly enjoys serving in this capacity.
MAKING A DIFFERENCE, JUDE 1:22
Eradicating poverty involves an integrated approach, which Community Share Ministries is committed to providing for our local communities. It isn't enough to simply provide food and clothing to people during difficult times, but is essential to tackle all of the core issues impacting families. We believe in doing our part to make the world a better place for all within our community and the communities surrounding. We do this through feeding, clothing, and housing people in need. We exist to make a difference.
h elp com m u n it ysh a re . c om
FEATURED COVER STORY
Photo: Kevin Myrick/Polktoday.com
Community Share Ministries
C
by Jodi Varnado
ommunity Share Ministries has been serving
this avenue, Slaughter is able to share his passion for
Polk County for eleven years. The comprehensive
restoration while showcasing the mission of Community
ministry supports individuals throughout the
Share Ministries to a wider audience. The documentary was
community, providing essential needs, including food,
met with beaming success, winning the GB Lindsey Family
clothing, shelter, and hope for the future. Community
Audience Award at the Waco Family and Faith International
Share Ministries owns and operates a Thrift Store,
Film Festival in Waco, Texas.
Warehouse, and Crazy Mart, a place for individuals to
Since the announcement of Community Share
access items for a minimal donation. These donations
Ministries’ newest ministry program, The Safe Haven
help fund the cost of Community Share Ministries’ Men’s,
Ranch, they have begun planning and constructing this
Women’s, and Children’s Homes, all of which are located
community on a 40-acre parcel of land in Polk County. The
in Cedartown, GA.
Safe Haven Ranch will be Northwest Georgia’s first foster
According to Community Share Ministries’ website,
care community, and the ministry will begin the project
“These shelters provide residents with a safe place to stay
with The Safe Haven Boy’s Ranch. The land will include
and opportunities for spiritual growth, reintegration into
multiple Children’s Homes and a Children’s Community
the workforce, jobs while in the home at the local warehouse
Center, a place for gatherings, parties, and The Safe Haven
and thrift store, tutoring programs for children, and other
Ranch offices.
support. We are dedicated to providing a safe place for men,
Over the next couple of months, initial construction
women, and children to get back on their feet. Over 600
plans will include creating a subdivision design and
men and women have been through the homes since the
building the infrastructure, including sewage, drainage,
inception of Community Share” and seven children have
roads, sidewalks, power, and water. Phase One of the
been adopted into their forever homes.
project will also include the construction of the first house,
Founder and Director of Community Share Ministries,
which has already been paid for, and three other houses.
Jason Slaughter, is recognized for his faithfulness in the
Each Private Placement Home will be paid for and named
2020 documentary film, “Making a Difference.” Through
after their sponsor, allowing children from newborn age
22 // November 2021
Photo: Kevin Myrick/Polktoday.com
to eighteen-years-old to be placed in temporary custody. Thus, keeping children of the community out of the foster care system. The Safe Haven Boy’s Ranch will include three phases and a total of twelve homes. Slaughter predicts Phase One will be nearing completion by January 2023. After construction of The Safe Haven Boy’s Ranch is complete, Community Share Ministries plans to begin work on The Safe Haven Girl’s Ranch. This prayer is met with equal need, as annual fundraising throughout the community has proved challenging amid the pandemic. Community Share Ministries will be hosting a spring event and auction to promote The Safe Haven Boy’s Ranch and seek community involvement. Community Share Ministries does not accept any money from the state, so fundraising and sponsorships are vital to sustaining their mission. “The Safe Haven Ranch is just another limb off the tree,” said Slaughter. “People need help, we still donate 20,000 pounds of food and provide homes for people who have been displaced in our community.” Volunteering your time and service in the Community Share Ministries’ Warehouse, in the Children’s Home, or in Community Event Planning will fill a primary need within the ministry. If you would like to partner and show your support monetarily for Community Share Ministries, you can sign up for The Compassion Givers Program. According to the Community Share Ministries’ website, “When you donate to the Compassion Giver Program, you are giving much more than money—you are gifting compassion, kindness, grace, and hope. You are making a difference in
Photo: Kevin Myrick/Polktoday.com
an inventory of toiletry essentials unavailable through the use of Food Stamps. If you would like more information about Community Share Ministries or The Safe Haven Ranch, you can visit helpcommunityshare.mystrikingly.com. If you would like to get involved in Community Share Ministries’ Compassion Givers Program or make a donation, you can access their online portal. Follow Community Share Ministries on Facebook at @CommunityShareMinistry or request a monthly newsletter to stay up to date on The Safe Haven Ranch project. “I want to be a diving board for other people for God’s work. I want to be open to talk with anyone and let them know that God will provide—and watch God multiple. A pastor once told me, ‘God said just do it before Nike,’ and I want to encourage people to just do it,” said Slaughter. If you would like to contact Jason Slaughter, you can call him at 678-634-4395.
someone’s life and making a change in our community.” The Compassion Givers Program is a monthly program which allows you to choose what level of giving is best for you. With each level, you will find opportunities to pay it forward through a Compassion Givers Card or Vouchers, which can be redeemed in the Compassion Givers Store—
23 M A K I N G A D I F Fgoodnewscm.com E R E N C E , J U D E 1 // :22
Gò0dNews for Family
Well Seasoned
T
by Zebbie Brewster
his morning as I was washing the bread
A good breakfast that got us started on that
pan, the activity brought back memories.
school day and every day. We always sat down
It is amazing how you think about
as a family at the table and took time to give God
things when standing in front of the kitchen
thanks for the food we were fixing to eat. Such a
window washing dishes. I love looking outside,
great foundation was being laid in our home to
and I am thankful even though I do not have a
help us in our future.
dishwasher—although I really do have one, me! The bread pan that I was washing was my Mother-in-Law’s. To say that the pan is well seasoned is an understatement. I cannot even imagine how many biscuits she had rolled out by hand and then placed on that pan. The smell of them, at any time of the day, coming from the oven, made one’s mouth water. Then, to be able to get that hot biscuit buttered, that was a real treat! I am thankful to have been blessed with such wonderful cooks in my life. My
As families, we start our traditions, and that
mom also cooked biscuits when we were children
is what makes each home unique. Whatever our
growing up. Her pan of biscuits was unique in
traditions, I pray that we never forget to love each
that she always made three baby biscuits. Just
other, forgive each other, and thank God for His
three small biscuits that we three children knew
many blessing upon us. I thank God for the gift
were made especially for us. To look back on that
of family and hope and pray that you will too.
now, I can see how blessed we were. We could
Psalm 34:8, “O Taste and see that the Lord is good:
get up on a school morning smelling the breakfast
blessed is the man that trusteth in Him.”
biscuits and Dad was cooking the eggs and meat. 24 // November 2021
About The Author
aroma, knowing Mom was busy cooking those Zebbie Brewster resides in Summerville, Georgia. She is an active member at Perennial Springs Baptist Church.
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
The Only Thing That Counts
T
by Chuck Cleveland
he Apostle Paul wrote in Galatians 5, “The only thing
Shortly thereafter, I spoke with Craig by telephone,
that counts is faith expressing itself through love,”
telling him that if he needed a friend with whom to talk, I
and I concluded God wanted me to trust Him in all
would listen. With much gratitude, he accepted the offer.
areas of my life and to demonstrate His love to all those with whom He gives me a relationship.
Though hundreds of miles apart, we began an exchange about why he had the affair, how his marriage could be
I wondered, however, what would constitute such
restored, and how he could be forgiven by God. It took
a demonstration, and so I began to ask people, “When
a lot of calls and correspondence (as well as him reading
someone was a special friend to you, what exactly did
the Bible I sent), but Craig eventually became a Christian.
that person do on your behalf?” Almost invariably, those
Furthermore, primarily through guidance provided by
people cited instances when someone came alongside them
another work associate, he was able to save his marriage.
when they were confronted with a sick child, a dying parent, the loss of a job, a broken relationship, or some other calamity. When asked if that friend offered advice on how to resolve the conflict, most said no. In other words, the most meaningful acts of friendship consisted of “being there” for them in their times of turmoil. Does it not logically follow, then, that we who claim we want to love others into the Kingdom would seek opportunities to validate our message by being there for non-believers during their struggles? I think it does, and here is how that worked out with my former work associate Craig (not his
Expressing God’s healing love to those I know has
real name). Shortly before an annual regional meeting, I
become a high priority, and here are three things I try
sensed I was supposed to share my faith with Craig, but
to practice:
there was no opportunity. Several months later, however,
1. Since everyone has a story, I want to listen well.
Craig’s world came apart when his wife discovered the
2. Since everyone has a desire for love and acceptance,
affair he was having and confronted him about it. Craig admitted the extra-marital involvement but
I want to provide them more frequently. 3. Since everyone needs to know of the Father’s
sought to minimize the damage by lying about the woman’s
offer of forgiveness, I want to be a more effective
identity and location, saying she was an office secretary
ambassador of reconciliation.
hundreds of miles away rather than a woman nearby.
How about you?
learned of his double deceit. Worse yet, almost everyone in the organization knew of Craig’s indiscretions.
26 // November 2021
About The Author
Unfortunately for him, Craig’s wife called the secretary and Chuck Cleveland lives in Newnan, GA and has written for three area magazines, as well as the local newspaper. He has been a Christian for over 50 years.
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
A Different Kind of Thanksgiving
W
by Dr. Alan Hix
ith the coming of November, when we are not
things to pale in comparison. He understood, as did C.S.
stressing over what to do for Christmas, we
Lewis, that Christ in us is all we need.
remember that somewhere in all this holiday
I have had the privilege of worshipping with believers
planning is Thanksgiving. When we pause and consider
in many other countries. In one particular village, the people
what we are thankful for, we often focus on things like
lived in mud huts and had to walk a day just to collect
family, friends, home, and more than enough to eat. The
water. By Western standards, they would be considered
opening lines of Laura Story’s song “Blessings” reflect this
among the poorest of people. What struck me as I spent
longing: “We pray for blessings; we pray for peace—comfort for family, protection while we sleep. We pray for healing, for prosperity. We pray for your mighty hand to ease our suffering.” As Christians, we usually focus on all the things God has done for us or given us. In other words, we tend to be thankful for those things outside of ourselves. C.S. Lewis, in his book The Weight of Glory, offers believers an important reminder: “He who has God and everything else has no more than he who has God only.” In 2 Corinthians 4:7, the Apostle Paul compares our physical existence to being like “jars of clay” that are fragile and easily broken. The true treasure that we have is not all the things we hold on
time with them was that they carried a joyous attitude
to so tightly. The true treasure we have is the presence of God’s
about them. The source of their joy was their salvation in
Spirit within us. Our fragileness allows His glory to shine
Christ. These people who had little by our standards had
through. Later in that chapter, he will declare that “For this
everything they needed by theirs—for they had Jesus.
light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight
This Thanksgiving, as we gather together around our
of glory beyond all comparison” (2 Corinthians 4:17, ESV).
tables set with enough food to feed our entire block, let us
Paul is able to express a certain hope for eternity
first thank God for the only thing that really matters. In
because of the presence of Christ within him. Writing from
Colossians 1:27, Paul expresses it this way: “To them God
prison toward the end of his life, Paul expresses a sense of
chose to make known how great among the Gentiles are the
contentment that goes beyond any physical circumstance.
riches of the glory of this mystery, which is Christ in you,
In Philippians 4:11, Paul declares, “…for I have learned in
the hope of glory.”
whatever situation I am to be content.” Instead of pining that the indwelling presence of Christ caused all other
28 // November 2021
About The Author
over how his circumstances could be different, Paul rejoiced
Dr. Alan Hix is an Associate Professor of Christian Studies at Shorter University. In addition to being and educator, he has served churches as a pastor, been involved in mission trips to Africa, Canada, and Alaska, and participated in archaeological excavations in Israel for several years.
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
Why Trials and Temptations?
I
by Brian Edward Johnson
have always been fascinated by Matthew 4:1. “Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil.” Jesus had just gotten baptized.
The Bible says, “the heavens were opened unto him” (Matthew 3:16), and God’s voice was heard from heaven. Pretty awesome stuff, right? Then, he is in the wilderness getting tempted. The thing that blows me away about this verse is that the Holy Spirit led him to be tempted. This temptation was intentional. We do not like trials, and I assume most of us do not want to be tempted. But this verse tells me that you can be in God’s will, walking in the Spirit, and still go through trials and temptations. Remember Job? The Bible says he was “perfect and upright” (Job 1:1), and he went through a trial that would have many of us giving up. One of the interesting aspects of that story is the trial was God’s idea. “And the Lord said unto Satan, ‘Hast thou considered my servant Job…’” (Job 1:8).
to trust if you never have a need? The children of Israel
So, why do we go through trials and temptations?
became thirsty in the wilderness, and God provided water
There are a few reasons. One of those is our disobedience.
for them miraculously. He provided manna, but they could
We try to live life on our terms. We do things that fulfill
only get enough for one day. They had to trust God for
our flesh or that make us happy, even if that deviates
their daily bread. If they gathered more than a day’s work,
from what is right according to the Bible. I mean, it is not
it went bad. I find it interesting that on the sixth day, it
hurting anyone, right?
lasted for two days. It shows that God was in control.
I would caution against that because the Bible is true,
So, trust God in the trial. Know that God is trying to
so when it says you will reap what you sow, you can be
grow you spiritually. Remember promises like, “…God is
sure that you will. Learn to have patience and wait on the
faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that
Lord. Focus on His desires and not your own. If you do
ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way
that, the blessings you receive will be more fulfilling than
to escape, that ye may be able to bear it” (1 Cor. 10:13).
anything you could dream up for yourself. God’s goal is to conform us to the image of Christ
When we respond correctly, trials and temptations bring us closer to God.
us through trials and temptations. How can you learn patience if you never have to wait? How can you learn
30 // November 2021
About The Author
(Rom. 8:29). One of the ways He does that is by taking Brian Edward Johnson is a deacon at his church and a nurse by vocation. He wants to do the best he can to teach people to trust God, for their eternity and for each day.
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
Be A Light
J
by Stephanie Daniels
esus said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life” (John 8:12). Once we accept Jesus, we become Christ-
like. Just like Jesus, we too can be a light. It takes giving your life to God and being willing and obedient to be used at any time. You may be the only “bible” some people will ever know. Be prepared to share your faith. Have a scripture reference in your heart. One of my favorite scriptures to share is Jeremiah 29:11: “I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” These words rang true in my spirit when I was going through a difficult time. They encourage me every time I read them. I have shared this passage with many and I know the Word of God does not return void. Every time we share a testimony, the Word, pray with someone or even invite them to church, we are letting our light shine. A great evangelist once said prayerlessness is a sin. I was a new believer when I heard this and it made a great impression on me. One of my favorite books is entitled, Intercession, Thrilling and Fulfilling by Joy Dawson. The book goes into detail about the benefits and power of having a prayer life. Prayer is communication with God. A strong prayer life involves speaking God’s Word over situations and circumstances, thanking God for who He is and all He has done, and listening to God’s voice. Some people are good at making their petitions
the right environment changes their life forever. Some people
known to God, but how good are you at listening to His voice?
have negative ideas about what church is. Unfortunately, some
The two go hand in hand. We can hear God through His Word,
people have had bad experiences with church people in the
through a sermon, through a still small voice, an impression, or
past. That is where we come in. We can be a light so that they
even through circumstances. God has many ways to speak to
can see something kind, something loving, and something
His people. There is power in prayer.
different in us that draws them to want to know more.
Sharing your testimony is another way to shine bright.
Any believer can have a dry season or even become
People love to hear of the goodness of God. I love to share my
stagnant. This has happened to me in the past. I have found
testimony of when I was down to my last sixty-five dollars. I
that the best way to keep your light shining bright is to put
prayed, and the Lord told me to sow into the life of the First
your hand to the plow and never look back. It does not matter
Lady of the church I was attending at the time. I was obedient,
what you do for God just do something until He leads you
and the next day I received an unexpected checkbook for
into His perfect will. If you greet, usher, or travel the world
a money market account totaling $60,500! God blessed me
preaching the gospel, it all keeps you primed and available for
through a simple act of obedience. I share that in hope that
God’s use. If you encounter someone who is in a dry season,
others realize the importance of obeying God.
encourage them to get busy for God. Once a person commits
I invite people to church all the time. My church prints material that we can hand out. Sometimes, getting people into
32 // November 2021
their life to God, their light will shine bright in the earth glorifying our Father in Heaven.
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Gò0dNews for Travel Wandering Through Winchester, Kentucky by Nicky Reynolds
I
n the late 1700s, traveling took a lot longer and was
To walk in his footsteps, one need only traverse
much more treacherous than it is today, but our
the Daniel Boone Heritage Trail, one of Kentucky’s
ancestors would saddle up the horses, load up the
official Scenic Byways. The route, established by Boone
caravan, and traverse the mountains and valleys of
in 1775, begins at Fort Boonesborough and ends in
this great country in hopes of discovering the perfect
Athens near Boone’s Station, which he settled in 1779.
terrain for new towns and cities. One well-known
Don’t Miss
historical figure who developed a reputation for such
In the 1700s and 1800s, Scottish immigrants built
discoveries was Daniel Boone.
miles of stone fences which can be seen on many farms
Boone in the Bluegrass
and pastures across the area.
Like many families who relocated to the United States during his time, Daniel Boone’s father left England to escape religious persecution. He was a Quaker who settled in Pennsylvania and later moved to North Carolina. Daniel Boone is most well-known for his trek through the Cumberland Gap, which came to be called the Wilderness Road, though much of his lifetime work included land surveying for other men who were trying to find properties to which to move. In the late 1760s, Boone was doing just that when he took his first glimpse of the Bluegrass region of what is now known as Winchester, Kentucky. Today, “Boone’s
The Holly Rood—Clark Mansion was built in 1814
Overlook” is a popular destination for hikers,
by James Clark, the 13th governor of Kentucky. The
birdwatchers, and history buffs. The challenging 730-
Federal-style home is open for tours by appointment.
foot elevation to the top of Pilot Knob State Nature
For more information on Daniel Boone’s history or
Preserve provides an impeccable view of rolling ridges
the Winchester, Kentucky area, contact the Winchester-
and flat farmlands.
Clark County Tourism Commission at 800-298-9105 or
Fort Boonesborough State Park is another attraction
log on to visitwinchesterky.com.
worthy of a visit. Located on the Kentucky River, it is the site built in 1775 by Boone and his men. Today, stay at the campgrounds, and learn more through living history programs.
34 // November 2021
About The Author
visitors can view the reconstructed fort, explore trails, Nicky Reynolds is a freelance writer who lives in East Tennessee with her 2-year-old daughter and their beloved rescue, Molly. Her dreams are to explore Italy, move to Hawaii, and keep adding new stamps to her passport.
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
Sacrifice of Thanksgiving
O
by Gina Hooker
ne word would sum up what I am most
call. Let us not use the excuse “they never call or come
thankful for this Thanksgiving season,
to visit me.” Remember that we love Him because
and that one word is love. Since reaching
He first loved us. And finally, let us give without
middle age, I have become much more sentimental
expecting anything in return and not give to others
and focused on cultivating and maintaining healthy
based on what we think that person deserves. Let us
relationships. But most importantly, over these past
tear down the walls that separate and loose the chains
few years, I have sought God like never before. With
(of bitterness and resentment) that bind. Let us vow to
that has come a greater understanding of His Word,
live and love in the freedom that is ours through Christ
particularly 1 Corinthians 13:13, “Now these three
as we have been commanded to do.
remain: faith, hope, and love. But the greatest of these is love.” I wish I could say that I love “perfectly” all the time; however, I fail in my flesh. But when I do fail, He gently corrects me and brings me to repentance— both to Him and to the one whom I have offended. In reading the history behind the holiday we call “Thanksgiving,” it is apparent the relationship between the various cultures represented at that first feast deteriorated over time. Greed, arrogance, and hatred replaced contentment, humility, and love. Some of the early settlers came seeking religious freedom,
This Thanksgiving season, let us give more and
but one could say they lost (the love of) Christ in their
take less. Let us be that living sacrifice, dying to self
pursuit. May this year be a time of renewed love for
so that others may experience the love of Christ in us.
Christ and in so doing, allow His love in us to reach
Romans 12:1, “I beseech ye, therefore, brethren, by
out to others. Let us humble ourselves before Him.
the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a
Let us confess our self-seeking and self-righteous
living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your
behavior. Let us be the first to say “please forgive me”
reasonable service.”
Let us be the first to make that visit or place that phone
36 // November 2021
About The Author
and not wait until someone who offends us says it first. Gina Hooker RN, Clinical Discipler. President and founder of Eternal Life Support Group.
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Gò0dNews Poetry
Changing by Pamela Latham
I call this one, Changing. Been doing a lot of thinking, about things that I have done. Been doing a lot of wishing, changing my life was one. I turned around to Jesus, I’m the one That turned my back. Jesus was waiting for me, He sat me on his lap. He gently rocked me back and forth, a smile upon his face, He told me how much he loved me; He knows I can finish this race. He told me he walked beside me and carried me through the worst. He saw the abuse and brutality; he heard my mother’s curse. He knew I’d run to him, when I could fight no more. He knew I’d lose everything; I’d hit rock bottom at 54. That’s how long it took for me to open my ears and eyes Most things that were told to me, most of them were lies I know for sure, I have no doubt, that Jesus is all I want, I know his love—I trust his love, so I put him up front Satan will not win even though his rage has been unfurled
38 // November 2021
About The Author
Because he who’s within me, is greater than who’s in this world. Pamela Latham is 57 years old and moved to Cleveland, Tennessee, three years ago. Pamela has written a collection of poems, which she hopes to turn into a book, “Love Poems to Jesus from Me.”
Gò0dNews
Christian Magazine
Mission Statement:
W
Writer Guidelines:
e believe when people are equipped,
Who: Our writers range from pastors, professors, and
motivated, and passionately engaged in
professional writers to stay at home moms and dads,
living out their faith in Jesus Christ they
business professionals, and others who have a desire to
have the potential to be world changers. Our mission is to bring people into a dynamic
relationship with Jesus Christ—a relationship that empowers them to see how God can work through individual personalities, situations, and talents. Christ was an activist, he did not neglect the needs of the people as He brought His message. We strive to encourage everyone to look more like Christ by reaching outside of themselves to serve the needs of others—at home, at school, in communities, and across the world.
goodnewscm.com Phone: 423.478.6484
reach out to people through words of encouragement. What: We believe that it is important to laugh together, praise each other, encourage one another, and to offer biblical advice. Articles can be directed toward everyone, or from woman to woman, or man to man. We love to share recipes and family traditions as well. We ask that articles be kept to a 500 word maximum. We’d love to hear from you! Where: Please send submissions to articles.goodnews@gmail.com Why: Because God has not intended for us to just survive. We believe that we are intended to reach out to love and encourage each other. God has brought each of us through tough times, blessed us, and made the “impossible” possible. Let’s, together, share the love of Jesus Christ.
Gò0dNews for Everyone
Those Dang Fire Ants
E
by Beth Penny
ven though I do not consider myself “old,” “over the
knew exactly what would happen—did we do it over and
hill,” or “long in the tooth,” I grew up in a different
over again? We were the ants’ enemy.
world than we live in today. Society, culture, and life
What happened to our society that made us not work
are just not what they were even ten years ago. Growing up
like clockwork? What has caused us not to accept each
in the country, summers were for exploring. We would leave
other or different points of view? Gone is a time when we
in the morning on our bicycles in a pack and try to finish our
overlook flaws and just live in peace no matter our differing
adventure for the day before dark because that is when we
opinions. Why does society now feel the need to lash out if
were expected home. We did not wear smartwatches, have
we differ in matters of personal viewpoints?
cell phones, or GPS. Our biggest worries were counting the mosquito bites when we got home.
Here is the real-life lesson we can learn from those industrious ants. If we took a dozen red ants and a dozen black ants and trapped them in a jar, they would live peacefully with each other. But, if we took the jar and shook it, the ants would begin to fight and kill each other. The red ones would believe that the black ones are their enemy, and the black ones would believe that the red ones were the enemy. In reality, who is the enemy? The enemy, unseen by the ants, is the one who shook the jar. As a society, think about who is “shaking our jar.” Who is the actual enemy? The division allows us to be conquered more easily. The old adage applies, “Together we stand, divided we fall.” Luke 11:17 tells us, “But He (Jesus), knowing their thoughts, said to them, ‘Every kingdom divided against itself is laid to waste,
In our exploring, we would inevitably find an ant bed.
and a divided household falls.’” If we think carefully on
Sometimes, we only found it when we realized that our feet
this verse, we have the complete answer to every question
and legs were covered in those little black or red creatures
of what is wrong with the world right now. There is even
and we were being bitten. In an ant bed, hundreds and
a simple fix as well. “Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge
thousands of ants live together in peace and work together
against any of your people, but love your neighbor as
to accomplish a miniature society. They all have jobs and
yourself, I am the LORD” (Leviticus 19:18). We can conquer
do their part. Their society works like clockwork. Enter
problems one at a time when we remember to be still and
humans! If we found a perfectly built and completely still
just let God be God. Love your neighbor as yourself, and do
ant bed, what did we absolutely have to do? Find a stick and
not let an unseen enemy shake your jar.
stir in it, of course. Hundreds of ants would immediately would have happened if we stepped in it. Why—when we
40 // November 2021
About The Author
pour out and begin searching for the “intruder”—just as it Beth Penny has taught English at Model High School since 1997. There she is also the Yearbook adviser and the Special Education Department Chair. She and her husband, Chad, have four children.
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Gò0dNews for your Taste Buds
Aunt Mildred’s Chicken Casserole by Leslie Bennett
W
hen I think about chicken casserole, I always associate it with my sweet Aunt Mildred. She was my dad’s sister, and she
lived next door to us when I was growing up. She was a beautiful lady and had such a kind heart. When my mom’s health was declining, and my dad was doing all the cooking, Aunt Mildred came and knocked on the door one day and handed my dad a chicken casserole she had prepared for them. I happened to stop by Mom and Dad’s house that day, and my dad wanted me to try it. It tasted really good, so I had my dad get Aunt Mildred’s recipe for me. Any chicken casserole I had ever tasted until that day was made in a 13x9 inch pan, but Aunt Mildred’s was different. It was made in a smaller, deeper
Instructions
casserole dish. It was so smooth and creamy. This is the recipe I use now. Aunt Mildred passed away a few years ago, and I am so glad I got her recipe before she died. I made it for dinner—I know she would be proud of me.
Ingredients • 3-4 chicken breasts (boiled) • 4 tablespoons of butter • 1 can of cream of chicken soup • 1 can of cream of celery soup • 8 ounces of sour cream • salt and pepper to taste
• Boil chicken breasts and let cool • Tear chicken apart
• Take ½ cup of chicken broth from pan and set aside • Melt butter in casserole dish
• Combine the soups and cream cheese in a bowl, salt and pepper to taste • Put half of the chicken in the butter in the casserole dish • Put half of the soup mixture on top of the chicken
• Put the other half of the chicken on top of that and add the rest of the soup mixture • Top with cornbread stuffing or crumbled Ritz crackers • Pour chicken both over the top
• Bake in a preheated oven at 350 degrees for 35 minutes until the top is golden brown
I like to serve my casserole with green beans
• Pepperidge Farm cornbread stuffing or Ritz crackers (crumbled)
and mashed potatoes. This makes a great meal,
• ½ cup of chicken broth
those who have lost a loved one. “Grace and peace
along with the following Scripture, to share with to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus
42 // November 2021
Christ” (1 Corinthians 1:3, NIV).
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