Keep reaching for what makes you feel whole.
Surprises. Triumphs. Breakthroughs. For every moment when words just won’t do, we give it our all so you can, too. Because there’s a whole lot of life to love, and the joy’s worth the journey. As you strive for what makes you come alive, we’ll be here — seeing, hearing and helping you feel whole.
About Us
WRITERS
Ande Frazier
Beth Penny
Candyce Carden
Chris Mullis
Garrett Nudd
Hayden Lanier
Henry Alford
Jennifer Govea
John Zellner
Karen Jeffery
Dr. Richard E. Dixon
Dr. Rob Debelak
Sandra Gilmore
SALES
Matthew Ruckman
423-503-1410
Email: goodnewstn@gmail.com
DESIGN
Caleb Prytherch
Email: art.goodnews@gmail.com
PHOTOGRAPHER
Kate Walton
Email: kate@studio-kate.com
GoodNews Rome
EDITOR/ARTICLE COORDINATOR
Sandra Gilmore
Email: articles.goodnews@gmail.com
PUBLISHER
Matthew and Bethany Ruckman
Cell: 423-503-1410
E-mail: goodnewstn@gmail.com
OFFICE
423-790-5378
WEBSITE goodnewscm.com issuu.com/goodnewsrome
Hello Friends,
We want to take a moment to tell you who we are and what we are about. Our names are Matt and Bethany Ruckman and we have six beautiful children, Brendon, Kailey, Andrew, Leah Jean, Emma, and Cooper. We live in Cleveland, Tennessee, and love what this town has to offer! We have started GoodNews Christian Magazine because we feel that when God, family, and community are combined, lives will be changed.
GoodNews Christian Magazine is a complimentary, Christian lifestyle publication. You can find us throughout the community in retail establishments, churches, restaurants, and more. Our magazine opens the door for Christians to work together to grow and strengthen our community through relevant editorial and effective advertising.
GoodNews Christian Magazine is written by men and women in the community who love and serve the Lord. Our hearts are open and willing to be used by God to reach out to the community to spread the GoodNews!
Disclaimer
All of the content in the GoodNews Christian Magazine is for general information and/or use. Such contents does not constitute advice and should not be relied upon in making (or refraining from making) a decision. Any specific advice or replies to queries in any part of the magazine is the personal opinion of such experts/consultants/persons and is not subscribed to by GoodNews Christian Magazine. The information in GoodNews Christian Magazine is provided on an “AS IS” basis, and all warranties, expressed or implied of any kind, regarding any matter pertaining to any information, advice or replies are disclaimed and excluded. We reserve the right to refuse any advertisement or article we deem inappropriate.
The Greatest Expectation
by Dr. Richard E. Dixon
As 2025 comes to an end, the last two months of the year bring many seasonal activities filled with fun, excitement, and expectation. One often finds much expectation in the time spent with family and friends at gatherings, local community events, and church presentations. The very thought of being together again with friends and family who have been absent throughout the year brings anticipation of joyous times together. Each year as this time approaches, I often hear myself singing in my mind a very popular Christmas song written in 1963 and sung by Andy Williams called “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year.” Go ahead, you can start singing it now. You know you want to!
November and December are always full of amazing times fulfilling the expectations many hold close at this time. Of course, December ushers in a time when those who are called by His name celebrate the birth of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Luke informs the reader about the expectation that existed about the coming of Jesus.
“As the people were in expectation, and all were questioning in their hearts concerning John, whether he might be the Christ” (Luke 3:15 ESV).
Their expectation for the coming Messiah was great as they inquired whether John the Baptist was the Christ. But John instructed: One was coming mightier than he was,
and He would baptize them with the Holy Spirit and fire. Wow, talk about an expectation among the people! The “anticipation” in this passage goes much deeper than the surface understanding of just waiting. It can be understood as a “state of expectation,” “mental direction,” “to expect (whether in thought, in hope, or in fear),” “to look for, wait for” something or someone. They most assuredly had that, and we undoubtedly possess that when we think of the wonderful times to be had during this time of the year.
As the days remaining in the year quickly come and go, I pray you have all your expectations of holiday times together with those you love fulfilled and you are able to make wonderful memories together. Jesus did come and fulfill all their expectations of His arrival, and He went to prepare a place in Heaven in His Father’s house, a place for them and a place for us who are His children. That is, those who call Him Lord. As His children, we are charged with assembling together and exhorting each other even more so as the day approaches.
“Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching” (Hebrews 10:25 KJV).
What day is that? The day that Jesus will return to get His bride, the Church. This is “The Greatest Expectation” that one should have—a state of expectation, a mental direction, a thought, and a hope continually on the mind. Jesus is coming back as He promised, and with our expectation of time spent with friends and family, with expectation of joyous gatherings, with expectation of new connections and friendships made, and with expectation of the celebration of the birth of Christ, let us have “The Greatest Expectation” of His return to take us home to be with God. May God bless each and every one now and in the New Year as we proclaim His wondrous works on the cross and His imminent return.
for Everyone
Heartache in Laughter
by Hayden Lanier
Proverbs 14:13 ESV says, “Even in laughter the heart may ache, and the end of joy may be grief.” How often do we tell people we’re fine when we actually aren’t? We put on a painted smile or don a brave face and pretend we’ve got it all together. This verse speaks to the depth of human nature when it expounds that even when we laugh, we can still suffer from heartache, and the end of our joy may be grief. We can try to hide our pain from others, but at the end of the day, we deal with it ourselves. Even when we are laughing and enjoying our lives, that small voice in the back of our head still spreads heartache and grief.
On earth, even our happiest moments are tainted with grief, and laughter only lasts for a moment. The bliss and delight we experience in life are not permanent. But as Christians, this is not the end of the story.
Psalm 30:5 ESV tells us, “For His anger is but for a moment, His favor is for life; Weeping may endure for a night, But joy comes in the morning.” We have the promise that, while weeping may endure for a night, joy is coming in the morning. We will be burdened and face hardships while we are here. We will endure suffering, trials, heartache, and grief, even in our laughter and joy. Weeping will endure for the night, but joy is coming in the morning when we are in our eternal home, where God Himself will be with us and wipe away every tear from our eyes and put an end to all death, sorrow, crying, and pain (Revelation 21:3-4).
Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God” (Hebrews 12:2 ESV).
So when heartache holds you back from laughter, or grief is the end of your joy, remember Jesus. Look to Him who endured the cross and despised its shame and is now sitting at the right hand of the throne of God. Remember that He is with you now and that we will be with Him one day. Weeping may endure for now, but we look forward to that morning. Thank God that Jesus endured our pain for the joy set before Him!
But how is this possible? Only through Jesus. As the first part of Isaiah 53:4 ESV says, “Surely he has borne our griefs and carried our sorrows.” Because Jesus endured our humanity and took on our guilt and shame, we can be saved by Him, and He has entered into the glorious joy of the presence of His Heavenly Father. He endured our weeping for a metaphorical night, and it is only because of Him that joy can come in the morning. Jesus is “the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before
And let this also be a reminder to treat one another well while we are here on earth. Even if somebody seems like they “have it all together,” chances are, they don’t. It may sound cliché, but you never really know what somebody is going through, perhaps even those closest to us. We should love one another and treat them as we want to be treated, for this is how Jesus taught us to live.
See www.setyourmindabove.wordpress.com for this article and more from Hayden Lanier.
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.
We spend much of our working lives thinking about retirement. We save diligently, check our accounts, and calculate when the numbers might finally add up. But if you’ve talked to people who’ve actually made the transition, you’ll hear a recurring theme: the hardest part isn’t always financial.
Retirement is more than just leaving a job. It’s leaving behind a routine, a community, and in many cases, a sense of identity. That’s why you often hear the phrase, “It’s better to retire to something than from something.”
The Loss of Routine
For decades, your days have been structured; wake up, head to work, meet deadlines, solve problems, juggle responsibilities. Then, almost overnight, the calendar clears. At first, this can feel liberating. No more Monday morning meetings! But after a few weeks, the quiet can feel unsettling. Humans thrive on rhythm. Without something meaningful to get up for, many new retirees report feeling restless or even depressed.
The Loss of Community
Workplaces aren’t just places we earn a paycheck, they’re often where friendships are built. Colleagues become the people you chat with over coffee, share wins and losses with, and celebrate life milestones alongside. Retirement can feel lonely if you haven’t thought about where your social connections will come from. Some retirees find themselves surprised at how isolated they feel once those everyday interactions are gone.
The Loss of Purpose
Perhaps the most profound shift is identity. For years, the answer to “What do you do?” has been tied to a career. Retirement can suddenly leave people questioning: Who am I now? What role do I play? Without a sense of purpose, the so-called “golden years” can feel less shiny than expected
Planning Beyond the Numbers
As a financial planner, I can tell you that money matters; it provides security, flexibility, and options. But money alone doesn’t
Beyond the Numbers: What Retirement Really Means Money Moves Ande Frazier with
build a fulfilling retirement. That’s why I encourage people to plan just as thoughtfully for the emotional side of retirement as they do for the financial.
Ask yourself questions like:
• What will give me a reason to get out of bed in the morning?
• How will I continue to nurture relationships and build new ones?
• Where will I find opportunities to use my skills and passions?
Some people find their “something to retire to” in volunteering, mentoring, or part-time consulting. Others explore long-delayed hobbies, join clubs, or invest in community activities. Travel, family time, fitness, faith, and creative pursuits all become meaningful anchors. The point isn’t what you choose; it’s that you choose something that brings joy, purpose, and connection.
A Balanced Approach
I often remind people: retirement isn’t a finish line. It’s a new chapter, and like any transition, it requires both preparation and adaptability. You want your financial house in order. Think income streams, health care coverage, protection strategies, and tax planning. But equally important is designing a life that keeps you engaged, purposeful, and connected.
The retirees I see thriving are the ones who approach this stage with intentionality. They view retirement not as an ending, but as an opportunity to realign their time, talents, and resources with what matters most. They’ve thought beyond the dollars and cents to the meaning and sense of it all.
Final Thought
If you’re nearing retirement, yes, sit down with someone who can help you run the numbers. But also sit down with yourself, your spouse, or trusted friends and talk about what’s next. Don’t just think about what you’re leaving behind; think about what you’re stepping into. Because the best retirements aren’t defined by an absence of work, they’re defined by a presence of purpose.
Ande Frazier is a nationally recognized author and financial expert specializing in behavioral finance. A frequent contributor to media outlets like CNBC, HuffPost, and Yahoo Finance, she writes about the emotional and psychological forces that shape our financial choices. Ande is the author of the Amazon best-seller Fin(anci)ally Free!, a guide to transforming your mindset around money and self-worth. She is based in Rome, Georgia, and works with
The Courage to Overcome Stubbornness with Steadfastness
by John Zellner
My grandfather was a stubborn man. My dad is a stubborn man. And yes, many (especially my wife) have called me stubborn.
My grandfather was a pillar of the community, loved his church, and loved his wife even more. Similar can be said of my dad. Those are good traits to exhibit—to love your community and family. Yet both men I cherish so dearly were/are set in their ways so much that they have become known by those close to them as “stubborn men.”
Being stubborn is often seen as a negative connotation. Merriam-Webster defines stubborn as:
1) unreasonably or perversely unyielding; justifiably unyielding; suggestive or typical of a strong, stubborn nature
2) performed or carried on in an unyielding, obstinate, or persistent manner
3) difficult to handle, manage, or treat
Many would state that my grandfather and dad fit the above definitions, especially the first two entries.
However, when looking into what the Bible says about being stubborn and stubbornness, I became perplexed. “Is it possible to be stubborn for God?” I asked myself. Upon delving a little deeper, I believe I have found my answer.
In Scripture, stubborn and stubbornness are connected primarily with rebellion, disobedience, and pride. Furthermore, many scholars link stubborn/stubbornness with hard hearts and stiff necks. For example, Pharaoh is described as having a hard heart (multiple instances in Exodus chapters 7-10 specifically), whereas Israel as a people exhibited stiff necks (primarily several cases in Exodus chapters 32-34).
As a Believer, displaying character as the hard-hearted Pharaoh or stiff-necked Israelites cannot please our Heavenly Father. According to 1 Samuel 25:23, rebellion is as witchcraft and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry. However, by submitting to the Father (2 Chronicles 30:8) and by listening to His voice and inclining our ears (Jeremiah 7:26), restoration of stubbornness may occur, if not altogether avoided.
So again, what about being stubborn for God?
Thankfully, there is another word that has a positive connotation when describing repetitive, resolute behavior: steadfast.
Several words in Hebrew (Old Testament) and Greek (New Testament) have been translated into English as steadfast. Most notably and commonly, the words for steadfast further mean to prepare, to establish.
Like stubbornness, steadfastness is linked to a condition of the heart. Perhaps none knew more-so than David. Several of his psalms highlight the powerful concept of steadfastness. Consider the following:
Psalm 51:10 NIV, “Create in me a clean heart, God, And renew a steadfast spirit within me.”
Psalm 57:7 (Psalm 108:1 is similar) NIV, “My heart is steadfast, God, my heart is steadfast; I will sing, yes, I will sing praises!”
We also see steadfast connected to righteousness and life (Proverbs 11:19), peace (Isaiah 26:3), and faith (Colossians 1:23).
Ultimately, as Believers, the condition of our hearts cannot be understated. Our Heavenly Father examines our hearts (i.e., Jeremiah 17:10; 1 Thessalonians 2:4).
And ultimately, as well, I have changed my position on being stubborn for God. No longer shall I desire to be associated with a hard-hearted Pharaoh or stiff-necked children, nor shall I associate loved ones such as my grandfather and dad with the aforementioned.
From now on, may we all be STEADFAST for God and His Kingdom.
John Zellner has a gorgeous wife, two beautiful daughters, and loves the Lord.
He is the founder of the YouTube channel 300 Torches Media, which focuses on facilitating and exhibiting daily courage.
Count Your Blessings
by Beth Penny
How many times do we say or hear someone say, “I’m so blessed… that is such a blessing… bless you”? Do we put thought into that or is it just a quick response to fill an awkward silence or because we don’t have other words to say? The meaning of blessing is “God’s favor or protection.” We always want God’s blessings on ourselves, our families, our friends.
But what happens when things don’t go our way? Bad things happen to good people. Daily, we have struggles, we often have crises, we have accidents that aren’t in our plans. Things happen in this world that we cannot explain and don’t understand. Sometimes these things happen and make us question God and God’s plan for us. Remember that ships don’t sink because of the water that is around them; ships sink because of the water that gets in them. It is easy for us to get “sunk” by the things we think are around us when, in fact, the things inside of us are the anchor around our necks.
A few years ago, it was moving-weekend for my family and me. We had packed everything and loaded the U-haul and our vehicles. We started to leave and my husband's truck had a flat tire. A small bump that we handled and got on the way. When we got to the new house, we realized that we had a gas hot water heater. No hot water for the weekend until I could call the gas company on Monday. Another bump, but we made do.
The next day after church, we stopped to grab a bite of lunch before heading home to unpack more boxes. When we went out to leave, the key fob would not work for my car. Changing batteries and fobs did not work. After a tow and a ride home, we had to regroup. So many things were going wrong for what we had thought was a good move. We were beginning to let the water in our vessel.
When this happens, pull out a blessing. How do you do that? Keep a blessings journal. Every old fashioned hymnal has the traditional “Count Your Blessings” ballad by Johnson Oatman, Jr. A song written in the late 1800’s has so much meaning today. Sometimes the old traditional
“When upon life's billows you are tempest tossed, When you are discouraged, thinking all is lost, Count your many blessings, name them one by one, And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done.
“Are you ever burdened with a load of care? Does the cross seem heavy you are called to bear? Count your many blessings, ev'ry doubt will fly, And you will be singing as the days go by.
Count your blessings, name them one by one; Count your blessings, see what God hath done; Count your blessings, name them one by one; Count your many blessings, see what God hath done.”
When little blessings come your way, write them down. When big blessings come your way, write them down. When life becomes difficult and days are overwhelming, consult your list. Those bright spots of blessings open our eyes to the good that God is doing in our lives. In our humanness, we need reminders of the good when the bad overshadows. Psalm 91 in its entirety shows us that God is in control of every situation we encounter. “He will cover you with His feathers, and under His wings you will find refuge” (Psalm 91:4 NIV).
Beth is a high school English teacher and adjunct college professor who is passionate about faith, education, and encouraging others through writing. She serves with her husband, Chad, who is a Family Pastor at Friendship Baptist Church in Rome, GA.
hymns are stuck in our heads so much that we forget to listen to the words.
Our first priority is helping you take care of yourself and your
We want to learn more about your personal situation, identify your dreams and goals, and understand your tolerance for risk. Long-term relationships that encourage open and honest communication have been the cornerstone of our foundation of success. It’s about empowering people to create generational impact.
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
Apostolic
First Apostolic Church of Rome
3213 Cave Spring Rd Rome, Ga 30161
706-235-9551
Assembly of God
Redemption Church
105 Broadus Road NE Rome, Ga 30161
706-232-0277
Baptist
Antioch Baptist Church
4526 Big Texas Valley Rome, Ga 30165
706-232-7248
Armuchee Baptist Church
6648 Big Texas Valley Rd NW Rome, Ga 30165
706-235-3169
Berean Baptist Church
8 Skyline Dr Rome, Ga 30161
706-295-9832
Blue Pond Baptist Church
1291 Morrison Campground Rome, Ga 30161
706-235-3296
Bryant Chapel Baptist Church 24 Shady Lane Rome, Ga 30161
706-235-9768
Bush Arbor Baptist Church
3290 Black Bluff Rd Rome, Ga. 30161
770-885-0779
Calhoun Avenue Baptist Church 1021 Calhoun Ave Rome, Ga 30161
706-234-4431
Calvary Baptist Church 101 Broadus Rd NE Rome, Ga 30161
706-291-1461
Cedar Creek Baptist Church 3219 Fosters Mill Rd SW Rome, GA 30161
Cedar Valley Baptist Church
3024 Cedartown Hwy SW Rome, Ga 30161
706-295-0978
Community Chapel Baptist Church
3733 Black Bluff Rd Rome, Ga 30161
706-232-4070
Desoto Park Baptist Church
1107 Cave Spring Rd. Rome, Ga 30161
706-232-6207
Dykes Creek Baptist Church
3181 Kingston Hwy NE Rome Ga, 30161
706-291-7790
16 // November 2025
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
Wilderness Church Rome 2730 Martha Berry Highway NE Rome, Ga 30165
706-237-6395
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
A Legacy of Love and Faith
by Candyce Carden
Squirrels scurry around in the bushes and trees surrounding my house, hunting for seeds and nuts. When they find one, they scamper away to store it in elaborate burrows they have dug. These mammals enter a light hibernation, occasionally waking to nibble at their stash of food; another sign of winter’s approach. As the days grow shorter and the cold slips in, I’m tempted to burrow under my blanket and hibernate until spring.
But then I would miss the joyous Thanksgiving and Christmas celebrations. I’m not fond of winter, but I love winter holidays. They remind me of Father’s good gifts and all that we’re able to experience because of the birth of His Son.
Thanksgiving is a time to focus on family and gratitude. Nothing bonds a family like sharing a meal around the table. It’s also a time to reflect on the faithfulness of the brave Pilgrims who traveled to our country in 1620 in search of religious freedom.
What Legacy Will I Leave?
Since I’ve entered the grandparenting years, the number of people around my table has multiplied, thanks to my children!
“Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from him” (Psalm 127:3 NIV).
“Children’s children are a crown to the aged” (Proverbs 17:6 NIV).
My children have filled my heart with much love, joy, and pride through the years. But their greatest gifts have been my grandchildren. As these kids sprout from toddlers to teens, I’m reminded to be more intentional with the legacy of faith I leave behind.
“Teach them to your children and to their children after them” (Deuteronomy 4:9 NIV).
“We will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord, his power, and the wonders he has done” (Psalm 78:4 NIV).
These verses encourage us to pass down God’s traits to future generations, creating a lasting impact. Faithful teaching builds a legacy. We are encouraged to share God’s
works with children. When children learn about God’s goodness and power, it fosters faith in Him.
I hope a legacy of faith began with my children. But during those early parenting years, it’s harder to be intentional about it. Hopefully, we set a good example as “we raise them in the way they should go” (Proverbs 22:6 NIV), because children learn by example. Since the Bible references future generations in verses about a legacy of faith, grandparents should pay attention. Now that we have more time, we can focus on our legacy.
A Reading Around the Thanksgiving Table
Such were the thoughts on my mind last Thanksgiving when I came across “A Reading at the Thanksgiving Table.” The interactive activity was fun and meaningful for my family, so I’m sharing it with you. You might want to do it too.
The reading is Psalm 100. I divided this passage into ten statements—one for each member at my table. I numbered ten strips of paper and printed the corresponding sentences on each numbered slip. My family, from grandkids to grandmom, stood around the table and took turns reading the Psalm in the correct order. It was really special. Fewer than ten people? Double up on the reading “assignments.”
If you have more than ten people, think of a creative way to get more involved.
Breaking the Cycle: Why Mindset & Body Reset Is Different
In today’s world, it can feel like the first step to solving a health concern is a prescription pad. Anxiety? Antidepressant. Weight gain? Appetite suppressant. Mood swings in children? A pill to “even things out.”
At Mindset & Body Reset, this team believes there’s a better way.
Founded by Lori Leonard, PMHNP-C, AGNP-C, this clinic is rooted in a simple but powerful idea: true healing begins when we uncover and address the root cause, not just mask symptoms.
Beyond the Prescription Pad
Most providers start and end with medication. While prescriptions have their place, they often become the first—and sometimes only—tool used, even as early as childhood. This can lead to dependency, side effects, and a cycle of “managing” health rather than transforming it.
Mindset & Body Reset takes a deeper look:
• Comprehensive labs that identify hidden deficiencies (iron, B12, vitamin D, amino acids) and hormone imbalances that directly affect mood and energy.
• Nutritional evaluations to uncover the impact of the Standard American Diet (SAD)—a major driver of anxiety, depression, and chronic fatigue.
• Functional medicine principles that examine gut health, absorption, and inflammation—often overlooked in conventional care.
The truth is mood disorders don’t just appear out of nowhere. They’re often rooted in physical imbalances that medication can’t fix.
Modern Modalities for Whole-Person Care
This approach blends traditional psychiatry with cutting-edge therapies and lifestyle support:
• Integrative Psychiatry – targeted medication when truly necessary, balanced with root-cause evaluations.
• Medical Weight Management – GLP-1 medications (when appropriate), lifestyle counseling, and nutritional monitoring.
• IV Nutritional Therapy – replenishing deficiencies quickly for better energy and focus.
• IASIS Microcurrent Neurofeedback – retraining brain pathways to reduce anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
• Chronic Care Management – structured follow-ups, accountability, and ongoing support.
• Faith-Based Guidance – honoring God’s design for the body and spirit, helping patients anchor their health journey in lasting values.
A Culture of Health, Not Sickness
Lori Leonard emphasizes, “Our mission isn’t just to help you feel better. It’s to help you live better. That means creating a culture where health is the norm, not sickness. Instead of handing out a prescription, we teach you how to reclaim energy through food, movement, and sleep. Instead of watching symptoms worsen over time, we intervene early with nutrition, labs, and faith-centered support. Instead of seeing health as an individual struggle, we view it as a community commitment—to families, workplaces, and the next generation.”
Lori Leonard’s Passion: Rooted in Faith and Transformation
As the founder of Mindset & Body Reset, Lori Leonard is more than a psychiatric nurse practitioner—she’s a
partner in transformation. With decades of experience and a calling to serve, Lori blends evidence-based medicine with a Christ-centered philosophy:
• Healing is possible when mind, body, and spirit work together.
• Lifestyle changes aren’t easy—but they are powerful.
• God’s design for health is more than symptom management—it’s true renewal.
Why Choose Mindset & Body Reset?
Leonard continues: “Because we don’t just want to manage your health—we want to help you reset it. We stand apart because:
• We don’t jump straight to medication.
• We uncover the why behind your symptoms.
• We integrate modern modalities with timeless faith.
• We partner with you to build habits that last.”
If you’re tired of quick fixes that don’t fix anything, it’s time for something different. At Mindset & Body Reset, you’ll find more than a provider—you’ll find a team that walks with you toward true, lasting wellness.
Do You Bear Good Fruit?
by Pastor Chris Mullis
Do You Bear Good Fruit?
This time of year is harvest time. Folks are picking, plucking, packing, preserving, and, most of all, inspecting the harvest. If a fruit inspector examined your life today, what would he find? Would he find love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control?
Now, we understand the life of a Christian is a journey. Fruitfulness is not something that happens overnight (just like a fruit tree does not bear fruit overnight). But your life should definitely be heading in the right direction—toward fruitfulness. God is the one who makes us grow and bear fruit. But what are you doing to tend the garden in your heart that nurtures fruitfulness?
There are several things you can do to nurture the development of spiritual fruit God wants to grow in your life.
There is worship, where you gather with other Christian believers and honor God. Do you regularly worship God with other Christians?
There is fellowship. We may have many different groups we socialize with on a weekly basis at school and work. But if you are a Christian whose heart's truest desire is to bear fruit for the Kingdom, other Christian friends should be your main social group. Are you deeply involved with Christian fellowship?
Prayer is the heart of the Christian faith. Are you investing deeply in regular prayer throughout your day? Bible Study is essential. How else are we going to know how we are supposed to think and live unless we study God's Word—His official method for speaking to His people?
Are you in a small group where you talk about your prayer life and what you’ve read in your Bible, and where people intentionally hold you accountable and offer encouragement to live more fully for Jesus? Are you practicing the means of grace Jesus specifically commanded His followers in practice in the Bible—Baptism and Holy Communion?
• Baptism is the initiation ceremony for Christians in the New Covenant that replaced the circumcision ceremony of the Old Covenant. Baptism is a means for God to pour out His grace upon those being baptized and those who stand with them, to help everyone know and walk with Jesus. It is an outward and visible sign of an inward and spiritual grace.
• Holy Communion is a means to receive God’s grace, where we have our eyes opened as we experience the presence of Christ and receive spiritual nourishment for our faith journey. Communion is a sacramental act of thanksgiving and remembrance, commemorating the Last Supper of Jesus with His disciples, where bread and wine symbolize the body and blood of Christ. This sacred practice fosters a deeper communion with Christ and with one another, strengthening our bonds with the church, and empowering us to live out our Christian discipleship in the world.
Living It Out
As we reflect on Jesus' warning against false prophets and the importance of discerning true from false in our spiritual journeys, let us be vigilant gardeners of our souls. May we not only seek to identify the fruits in others but also nurture the growth of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control within ourselves. Through worship, fellowship, prayer, Bible study, and participation in the means of grace like Baptism and Holy Communion, let us cultivate a life that bears good fruit, reflecting the light of Christ in a world often shadowed by deception. Live out the Kingdom ethics Jesus taught in His Sermon on the Mount, growing closer to Him, and each other, as we journey together in faith.
for the Holidays
A Reminder That God Cares During the Holidays
by Jennifer Govea
The holidays are here, and it’s the most wonderful time of year! Not for you. People are cooking, shopping, gathering, and partying. Not you. You lost a loved one this year, so nothing seems merry and bright.
Whether it was a miscarriage, sudden heart attack, tragic car accident, surgery gone wrong, or old age, losing someone special is hard. The first year without that close family member or friend is most painful around significant dates you celebrated together, including birthdays, anniversaries, and holidays. You’ve never spent Thanksgiving without him. He’s always been there for Christmas. How can you ring in the new year without her?
My mother was an excellent cook, and my brother and I, and our families, would go to our parents’ house for Thanksgiving. She died one April, which made that Thanksgiving extra sad. I had just given birth earlier in November, so I could not–nor wanted–to take on the responsibility of preparing a feast for my father, brother, and his family. We decided to buy all the fixin’s from a restaurant and have dinner at my dad’s house. It was rather pathetic. Eating mashed potatoes from a plastic to-go container just wasn’t the same as homemade from my momma’s kitchen.
There are some ways to work through the grief as each day passes by. When his birthday is coming, make his favorite dessert and share it with friends. Wear your mom’s favorite color on Mother’s Day. Reread cards that you sent your son and that he sent you. Plant a rosebush or some flowers on your wedding anniversary. Seek counseling through a support group.
GriefShare is a ministry with groups all over the country that help people work through a loved one’s passing regardless of if it was two years ago or ten years ago. You can meet with other people in person or even online. It is as easy as going to www.griefshare.org and clicking on “Find a Group.”
Maybe you are not the one who lost someone, but your close friend or family member did. Be conscious of her hurt by remembering what Paul wrote in Romans 12:15 NLT, “When others are happy, be happy with them. If they are sad, share their sorrow.” Include him on special days so that he is not alone. He may say “no,” but your invitation shows that you care. Text your friend on the day her miscarriage happened and say that you are praying for her. Share special memories that you have of the person who passed away. Conversations and experiences that you had with the person who passed are different from the ones your friend had, so mentioning the deceased by name and talking about old times provides great comfort and keeps his or her memory alive.
If this is a new relationship with someone who lost a loved one before you two met, ask your friend about that person. Be genuinely interested in what your friend has to say. Be ready to let her talk, offer hugs and tissues, and pray for her. Remind him that God cares and is there for him. Psalm 34:18 NLT reads, “The LORD is close to the brokenhearted; He rescues those who are crushed in spirit.” And who knows? Maybe the Lord sent you to be the one to comfort your friend and rescue him at just the right time.
dNews for Kids
Being Thankful: A Special Gift
Hello, young friends! Today, let's talk about something very special: being thankful. Being thankful means showing gratitude for the good things we have. It’s like saying "thank you" with a happy heart. Let’s explore why being thankful is important and what the Bible says about it.
What Does the Bible Say?
The Bible has many verses that teach us about thankfulness. *Here are a few to think about:
“In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you” 1 Thessalonians 5:18.
“O give thanks unto the Lord; for he is good; for his mercy endureth for ever” 1 Chronicles 16:34.
“And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful” Colossians 3:15.
These verses remind us that God wants us to be thankful in every situation. When we say thank you, we are not only polite, but we also make God happy.
Why Should We Be Thankful?
Being thankful has many benefits:
• It makes us happy: When we focus on the good things, we feel more joy.
• It strengthens our relationships: Saying thank you shows others we appreciate them.
• It pleases God: God loves it when we are thankful for His blessings.
Activities to Encourage Thankfulness
1. Thankful Tree: Create a tree out of paper and write things you are thankful for on the leaves. Watch your tree grow as you add more leaves each day.
2. Gratitude Jar: Write what you are thankful for on slips of paper and put them in a jar. At the end of the month, gather as a family to read the notes aloud and reflect on the blessings you've recorded.
3. Thank You Notes: Make homemade cards for people who have done something nice for you, like your teacher, a friend, or a family member. Expressing your gratitude in writing is a wonderful way to show appreciation.
Thankfulness Collage: Cut out pictures from old magazines or draw your own pictures of things you are thankful for. Paste them onto a large sheet of paper to create a colorful collage that reminds you of your blessings.
5. Gratitude Walk: Take a walk outside with your family and point out things you see that you’re thankful for, like the trees, birds, or a friendly neighbor. This helps you appreciate the world around you.
6. Gratitude Stones: Collect small stones and paint or write things you are thankful for on them. Place the stones in a visible area of your home as a daily reminder of your blessings.
7. Acts of Kindness: Show your thankfulness by doing something kind for someone else. This could be helping with chores, sharing a toy, or giving someone a hug. Acts of kindness are a way to express gratitude through action.
8. Thankfulness Chain: Cut strips of colored paper and write one thing you're thankful for on each strip. Link the strips together to create a chain that you can hang in your home. Watch the chain grow as you add more links each day.
Being thankful is like planting seeds of happiness. When we practice gratitude, our hearts grow with joy and kindness. Remember, God loves a thankful heart, and by being thankful, we spread His love and light to others. So, let's make thankfulness a part of our everyday lives!
*All Scriptures KJV.
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Gò0 dNews for Everyone
Be Thankful
by Karen Jeffery
Let’s look into the Word today and see what it means to have a thankful heart.
To have a thankful heart means to give all the praise to the Lord above through the good times and the bad times, also. We must remember to have a thankful heart in all we do. We all must rely on Christ to keep going in the straight path. We are told in Deuteronomy 31:6 KJV, “Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the Lord thy God, he it is that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.”
This is God’s Holy Word, and you have to brace, be strong, and resist the enemy. That’s where we can gain our trust in the Lord and grow in His grace. As I was growing up, I’m so thankful for a great mom and dad who took me to church every Sunday morning and Sunday night. Sunday School is a wonderful memory of mine and remains a joy of mine today, also—just as many of you also had, I’m sure.
As a family, we enjoyed Wednesday night services and revivals, and so, so much more, too. Also, that’s where having a thankful heart comes rushing in with a mighty wind! We can gain love and give love in return. It helps more than you know. The Lord is mighty and did many, many great deeds and healings while He was walking, talking, and teaching on Earth. We can read in the Bible on and on about the wonderful journeys that took place then, and we can hear and read about what He is still doing today.
Philippians 4:13 KJV says, “I can do all things through Christ Jesus who strengthens me.”
Yes, oftentimes life can be difficult, but because we know who holds our tomorrow and our next breath, we are able to breathe. That’s just how powerful the Holy Father is! His hands are not short to reach us.
Isaiah 59:1 KJV states, “Behold, the Lord’s hand is not shortened, that it cannot save; neither is his ear heavy, that it cannot hear.”
28 // November 2025
Faith and being thankful go hand in hand, as with so much more. We have to pray daily, read the Holy Word, and study the scriptures. Philippians 4:6-7 NIV says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
Having a great faith will get you through those days of disappointment and despair. As I said, through the good days and the bad days, we just have to stand tall and know that He is with us all the way. Keep the faith and a very cheerful, thankful heart. You will always feel Him moving in your life. Ask the Lord to come into your heart today. He’ll go with you till the last breath you take. Just continue to trust in Him, and He’ll be so much more of a Father, Daddy, Son, and Brother. Get into a wonderful Bible-based church. You will see that you have so much more to be thankful for in just a little while. The rewards are out of this world! Love like Jesus does. You will find a lot fewer broken ones with you every day. God bless you!
Karen Jeffery attends Gospel Light Tabernacle on Sheridan Ave, Dalton, Georgia. She declares, “I’m glad I can say I am a child of the Most High King!”
What Am I Good At?
by Garrett Nudd
As I rolled out of bed one Saturday morning, I changed into my running clothes. I’m not a good runner, but I am pretty good at not skipping a run. And I find that going for a morning run is a great way to start the day. It makes me feel like I’m MORE THAN capable of accomplishing something big.
I was putting on my running shorts and socks, when I heard heated chatter coming from the dining room. My nine and twelve year-old daughters were drawing pictures.
“If you’d do it like this and change this a little bit, it will really make your drawing better,” said the twelve-year-old.
A fist slammed on the wooden table.“Graycen, you don’t know everything!” shouted her younger sister.
Unphased by Campbell’s aggressive retort, Gray said, “Of course I don’t, but I’m just saying that since I’m better than you at drawing, I thought I’d be a good big sister and help you out.”
Her response dripped with a patronizing sarcasm she could’ve only learned from her father. This further irritated Campbell, and she stormed out of the room sobbing. Sometimes life and older siblings have a way of beating you down and making you feel “less than”
I didn’t know whether to insert myself into what was quickly escalating into a hostile environment or sit back and let things unfold. I chose the former. Then, I heard Campbell return to the dining room Through tears and sniffles she yelled, “Graycen, you’re good at lots of things. I’m still trying to figure out what I’m good at.”
“Less than” attacks when you least expect it. Sometimes it wears you down until you’re mired in despair. Other times “less than” disguises itself as comparison.
Campbell stormed away. A few moments later, I heard her practicing scales on the piano.
I raced out of the bedroom, forgetting that I hadn’t quite finished putting on my running clothes. It was all I could do to keep from tripping as I ran down the stairs with one sock on one foot and the other sock in my hand. I scooped her off the piano bench and carried her over to the couch.
Holding her in my arms, her cheeks covered in tears, I explained that she was smart, talented, beautiful, and funny. I told her she was MORE THAN, MORE THAN I ever wanted, MORE THAN I ever expected. And MORE THAN I deserved. I squeezed her tightly, wiped her tears and told her I loved her. If she was questioning what she was good at, I had an answer. She was good at making me laugh, and what’s more important than that? She makes me smile and laugh and glad I’m her father.
Whether you’re nine years old or ninety, deep down inside, every one of us has a desire for MORE THAN—to be, to give, to achieve, to contribute and to do something meaningful. We want to know we matter; we have a purpose, and we are a part of something greater than ourselves.
But sometimes it’s the people closest to us who distract, discourage us, and push us off course. How many times have we been discouraged? And how many times has God scooped us up into His big comforting arms and held us?
The psalmist David wrote, “I am fearfully and wonderfully made...”(Psalm 139:14). And the apostle Paul wrote, “You are bought with a price...” (1 Corinthians 6:30).
Pretty clear MORE THAN sentiment from two guys who always seemed to know what’s going on.Yes, indeed, you are MORE THAN.
Gò0 dNews for your Taste Buds Easy Turkey Soup
Ingredients
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 carrots, sliced
• 3 celery stalks, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 cups chicken or turkey broth
• 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded or chopped
• 1 cup leftover stuffing (optional)
• 1 cup leftover mashed potatoes (optional)
• 1 cup cooked rice or pasta (optional)
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
• Juice of 1 lemon (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and sliced celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Add Broth and Turkey: Pour in the chicken or turkey broth, and stir in the shredded or chopped turkey. If you have leftover turkey carcass, you can add it to the pot for extra flavor. Bring the mixture to a boil.
3. Season and Simmer: Add the bay leaf, dried thyme, and dried parsley to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Add Leftovers (Optional):
• Stuffing: If you have leftover stuffing, you can crumble it into the soup. It will dissolve and thicken the broth slightly, adding extra flavor.
• Mashed Potatoes: Leftover mashed potatoes can also be added to the soup to make it creamier. Stir them in until they are fully incorporated.
• Rice or Pasta: If you have leftover cooked rice or pasta, add it to the soup during the last 5 minutes of cooking to warm through.
5. Add Vegetables: Stir in the frozen peas and corn kernels. Cook for an additional 5-10 minutes until the vegetables are heated through.
6. Final Touches:
• Lemon Juice: For a fresh, bright flavor, add the juice of 1 lemon to the soup just before serving.
• Remove Carcass: If you added the turkey carcass, remove it from the pot and discard it.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
7. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Tips for Success
• Customize the Vegetables: Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables you have on hand, such as green beans, spinach, or kale.
• Use Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh herbs like thyme or parsley, use them instead of dried herbs for an even more flavorful soup.
• Make It Ahead: This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even more delicious.
Gò0dNews
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We believe when people are equipped, motivated, and passionately engaged in living out their faith in Jesus Christ they have the potential to be world changers.
Our mission is to bring people into a dynamic relationship with Jesus Christ—a relationship that empowers them to see how God can work through individual personalities, situations, and talents. Christ was an activist, He did not neglect the needs of the people as He brought His message. We strive to encourage everyone to look more like Christ by reaching outside of themselves to serve the needs of others—at home, at school, in communities, and across the world.
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Come, Ye Thankful People, Come
by Henry Alford (1844)
Come, ye thankful people, come, raise the song of harvest home; All is safely gathered, and the winter storms begin.
God our Maker doth provide for our wants to be supplied; Come to God’s own temple, come, raise the song of harvest home.
All the world is God’s own field, fruit as praise to God we yield;
Wheat and tares together sown are to joy or sorrow grown; First the blade and then the ear, then the full corn shall appear; Lord of harvest, grant that we wholesome grain and pure may be.
For the Lord our God shall come, and shall take the harvest home; From the field shall in that day all offenses purge away, Giving angels charge at last in the fire the tares to cast; But the fruitful ears to store in the garner evermore.
Even so, Lord, quickly come, bring Thy final harvest home; Gather Thou Thy people in, free from sorrow, free from sin, There, forever purified, in Thy presence to abide; Come, with all thine angels, come, raise the glorious harvest home.
Gò0 dNews for Everyone
Blessed Like a Well-watered Tree: Psalm 1
by Dr. Rob Debelak
Are you blessed? What does a blessed life look like? Why does the LORD’s favor matter? Emphasizing faithfulness in one’s relationship with God, the inspired singer of Psalm 1 points toward some answers. The Blessed Person Prioritizes God’s Word – v 1-2
Blessed people intentionally disassociate from ungodliness, sinfulness, and disrespect of the sacred. The effects of these contrary ways of living are charted along a pointless path of a life headed nowhere. Unholy lifestyles are selfish journeys that start out energetically, successively degrade, slow to a standstill, and eventually stop entirely. In contrast and moving by grace in the right direction, righteous people gain traction toward divine favor by avoiding conduct unbecoming a child of God.
Becoming a self-defined standard of measure (law), godlessness wields a resume of arrogant attitudes, brazen behavior, and wicked words. Forsaking the LORD’s instruction, the ungodly manufacture counsel in their own image, promoting what is esteemed in their eyes. Disregarding the Commandments, transgressors violate holy boundaries, missing the mark of God’s superior ideals. Underestimating the Scriptures, mockers insult God, ridicule His Word, and demean His people.
The Blessed Person is Productive – vv 3-4
Illustrating the positive results born out of faithfulness to the Word (v 2), a blessed person is like a flourishing tree. Well-rooted and secure, growth and vitality are attributable to its water source. Dependable fruit production and supple foliage serve as evidence of spiritual health. God’s eternal Word is a well-spring of life! The quality of that life is abundant and available, deepening with each season of maturity.
In contrast, antagonists wither. Dry, crumbling chaff is all that remains of a life given to meaningless folly. Disconnected from branches, there is no mention of fruit. Without roots and reduced to dust, the lifeless residue is effortlessly whisked away by a breeze.
Despite the illusion of strength in the many voices competing for attention, their Goliath-like opposition cannot avoid the effectiveness of God’s Word. Divine approval is conferred on the one daring to believe. Honoring godliness, purity, and holiness, spiritual fulfillment is nurtured. Reading The Book of books is a joy-filled opportunity to hear God’s voice. Constant reflection on Scripture’s message shows the reader takes His words seriously (Deuteronomy 8:3). These priorities demonstrate God and His Word are of foremost concern to everything in a believer’s life. Each thought, word, and deed are filtered through God’s statutes. The blessed individual calibrates the compass of their life by the Scriptures.
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The Blessed Person Prevails – vv 5-6
Scorning and rejecting the Word, those unrepentant sever themselves from the gift of life, reaping the consequences of their choice. The incompatibility of their wickedness with God’s holy standards leaves them without a leg to stand on when judgment yields its verdict.
The song concludes on a note of limited options...the exercise of free will either embraces the way of the upright or ventures the byway of the wicked.
The living, eternal LORD personally accompanies those traveling the path of righteousness. Consistent with His character, this trail leads to life. The other route, contradictory to God, is a dead-end road.
Conclusion
The blessed person humbly acknowledges the LORD’s loving presence, the truth and power of His Word, and the grace to accept His good, transformative work. Deeply moved in appreciation for an abundant, meaningful life, and gifted with hope for eternity, God’s people can affirmatively answer the important question: “Are you blessed?”
I pray you are richly blessed—like a well-watered tree!
Dr. Rob Debelak is Professor of Bible at Lee University. He has taught at Lee University for 30+ years and is a veteran of the U.S. Air Force. He and his family reside in Cleveland, Tennessee.
There’s a dusty dirt road off in some fields that looks like any other road of its kind in the South. But, it’s truly not the same. It’s not the length or the condition or the age of this road that makes the difference, it’s the destination. This road leads to hope. There’s hope along that dusty dirt road because Safe Haven Ranch for Boys is waiting at the end of it.
Jason Slaughter of Community Share Ministries describes the road building, “We are building roads to make room for what God’s got coming. We don’t know just who or just when but we know the children are coming. We know God’s got something He’s working on and we’re making room for it.”
The Safe Haven Boys Ranch is nestled in the former Corn family farm. The Corn family never raised children there. They raised animals and vegetables and eventually, they’ve raised hopes. The Corn family bestowed the farm into the care of Jason and Ginger Slaughter of Community Share Ministries who saw a vision for helping boys on a working farm throughout their childhood by providing a caring environment, a sound education both academic and practical, and a sense of true belonging in a community through a family both at home and a welcoming church family.
Jason continues, “We have been called by God to take care of the children who have known great suffering and
have no place to call home. Safe Haven Ranch is dedicated to demonstrating Christ's love by creating a nurturing environment for children who have known great suffering. Our mission is to address both the physical and spiritual needs of these children, providing them with the tools to overcome emotional and mental health challenges while sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ.
“We aim to inspire and instill hope in the children we serve, empowering them to grow and heal despite their difficult circumstances. Our organization believes in building a strong sense of community and providing a safe haven for children in need. Through our efforts, we strive to make a positive change in the lives of the children and families we serve, embodying the love of Christ in all that we do.”
Making a Difference
The Safe Haven Boys Ranch has plans to provide a long-term home to more than 70 children over its course, not including nine children who have already found their forever homes.
What Role Do You Play in Making a Difference?
Are you ready to make room, make a way, and make a difference? When you take the journey down the dusty dirt road to Safe Haven Boys Ranch you are immediately impacting children and nurturing not only the lives of these young people but the life of the community as well.
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PenPoints: Autumn Harmony
by Sandra Gilmore, Editor
Galatians 6:9 NIV: "Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”
Climb the mountains and get their good tidings. Nature’s peace will flow into you as sunshine flows into trees. The winds will blow their own freshness into you, and the storms their energy, while cares will drop off like autumn leaves. — John Muir, Our National Parks (1901)
In the South, the summer swelter cannot be contained. Sweat is inevitable and endurance is fundamental. There are days when our hope for cooler breezes vaporizes like frost off the fencepost.
Autumn can bring out harmony with colors that one would not normally set side by side. Pinks of spring mellow against the crimsons of fall, while delicate yellows mature into golds that rest easily against turquoise and copper-colors.
As this season brings out the best in nature by harmonizing contrasts, our writers’ testimonies and inspiring stories bring out the harmony in our lives. We see how trials lead us to victories, or how difficulties churn into sweet resolve. Seasons of waiting bring us to surrender and trust. Trials, difficulties, and waiting seem to be a three-part harmony for tender melodies of endurance, strength, and overcoming. What a sweet sound!
Autumn brings a shift. The fires of fall do yield to containment. Circles of folks around inner circles of firepits set the stage for storytelling and warm conversations. Meanwhile, blue and black shadows switch places in the background. Flames based in blue and white give way to crimson and amber as pale yellow sparks rise with unrealistic hopes to join the fires in the stars.
And the radiance of colors displayed in the leaves disguises the dormancy that’s around the bend. Fierce reds and embered golds flare up from the emerald shades of the year’s display. “Autumn carries more gold in its pocket than all the other seasons,” Jim Bishop once wrote.
It’s a joy for me to spotlight a few more of our faithful writers.
Jan Merop shares points to ponder with her signature “Selah” closing. Her stories of hiking, travel, or daily life with children in a blendedfamily home all connect to encourage readers to pause and reflect about the wonders around them.
Paula Burgner harmonizes daily challenges with hope found only in the Word. She recently published her second devotional book. (Look for her books, Looking Beyond What You See and Grounded by God’s Grace, on Amazon).
Terrie Long offers insight from life’s highs and lows with “grace notes” of sage wisdom. As a gifted writer, public speaker, and soloist, she intertwines her talents to inspire readers.
Dorothy Teague unites 30+ years as a teacher, her life on the family farm, and her study of Scripture to engage readers. Her writing stirs readers to look for the Lord’s presence in the rhythms of everyday life throughout each season.
Space here doesn’t afford the luxury of sharing about each of our writers. With upcoming issues, you’ll find me sharing more. For now, what I can share is that our writers are as varied as the autumn hues and yet they harmonize on a key theme: We’ll reap a harvest if we do not give up. To Him be the glory!
Five years of extraordinary senior living.
There’s no shortage of energy and excitement when you live at The Spires at Berry College — whether hiking around our scenic lakeside location, raising a glass at our pub for happy hour or exploring Rome’s charming attractions with friends. While immersed in Berry’s lively campus culture, residents have countless opportunities to attend university athletic events, arts performances and even lectures — not to mention form meaningful relationships with students. At the heart of it all, you’ll find the spirit of togetherness that makes our community one of a kind.
See why The Spires is not just a place to live — but a better way to live. Call 706-524-0600 or visit RetireAtBerry.com to schedule a personal tour.
