Gò0dNews August 2017
Complimentary
Christian Magazine
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CHATTANOOGA
• Believing God’s Promises p.6 • Get Ready for Your Double p.14 • Take the First Step p.44
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About Us
Writers
Andrew Lee Andrew Towe Amy Wilson Bernadine Barber Brooke Towe Danny Hesterly Esmerelda Lee Evan Tyler Fox Dr. James White Kayla Stevens Kevin Gardner Lawson Barber Madeline McFarland Pam Turner Theodore Young Teri Whiteside Wendy Pierce
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 four beautiful children, Brendon, Kailey, Andrew, and Leah Jean. We live in Cleveland 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!
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Letter from the Editor
A
long U.S. Highway 64 in the scenic forest of Southeast Tennessee, the Ocoee River has cut a steep, winding channel into a mountainside of hard rock. People come from all over the nation to experience the thrills and spills of rafting the Ocoee. The articles in the August issue have much in common with a river trip. We usually climb into the boat when the river is pleasant and calm, and we have confidence that we’ll reach our destination sooner or later. We are unaware that just around the bend may be an adversity that threatens to capsize our boat and leave us stranded on the rocks. These trouble spots along the river of life may take the form of heartbreak from a lifethreatening illness, a troubled marriage, rebellious teenagers, or the treacherous whirlpool of financial woes. Any one of these adversities could pull us under to defeat. Even if we stay afloat, our mental serenity and balance seem all but impossible. If we’re not careful, these emotional rapids can also drown out the still, small voice of God speaking to us. From the time we are born, you and I negotiate the course of this river with its rapids of adversity and confusing currents. We do not ask to be born. We don’t choose our parents, our siblings, our ethnic heritage, our social or economic status. So we ride the river, guided by the hand of God, even when we don’t know He is there. Often we feel isolated in this frightening experience questioning, Why me? Sometimes we believe that we should escape these problems and difficult transitions because we are Christians. When the captive people of Judah cried out against the trials of life in their strange land, the prophet Jeremiah sent them a message from God: “For I know the plans I have for you . . . plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future (29:11 NIV). I believe this message is a watchword for our lives for now. God will give us the power and the strength to stay in the boat and go on downstream, but He never expects us to navigate it alone. Through every adversity, He supplies a “raft of grace” to carry us over the rapids and around each new bend in the stream. Take time to gear up for new challenges, to unfold new horizons, to realize new dreams, and to rediscover God’s strength and faith for a truly fulfilling summer.
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.
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About Us GoodNews from the Pastor’s Desk Believing God’s Promises by Andrew Towe GoodNews for Kids How to Have a Great School Year by Wendy Pierce GoodNews on Money Matters “How to Blow $650 Million” by Andrew Lee GoodNews for Men Act Like Men by Lawson Barber GoodNews for Women Get Ready for Your Double by Brooke Towe GoodNews for your Taste Buds Sweet and Sour Tofu by Kevin Gardner GoodNews for Parents Pause and Rest by Danny Hesterly GoodNews for Everyone Take the First Step by Madeline McFarland GoodNews for Teens A Matter of the Heart by Amy Wilson GoodNews for Seniors Reinventing Yourself after Retirement by Esmerelda Lee GoodNews for Everyone Train up a Child by Bernadine Barber GoodNews for Couples In the Beginning by Theodore Young GoodNews for Health & Fitness Stress—Friend or Foe? by Evan Tyler Fox GoodNews for Everyone WHAT RESOLUTIONS? by Pam Turner GoodNews for Women’s Health What can Happen if I don’t get my Varicose veins treated? by Dr. James White GoodNews for Everyone An Answered Prayer by Teri Whiteside GoodNews for Everyone Back to School by Kayla Stevens
Gò0dNews Christian Magazine
Pg 22-23
Pg 18-19
Gò0dNews from the Pastor’s Desk
Believing God’s Promises If your heart feels void or numb, don’t forfeit the promise God has given you!
T
by Andrew Towe
he Lord began to speak to a word that is so simple but
That day her doctor confirmed that the baby was not
holds profound truth. I was in prayer when the Holy
alive. We walked around in what I can only describe as a fog of
Spirit said to me, “Just Believe.” I know while reading
heartbreak and disappointment. We thought this time we were
this, you are saying, “Yeah, we all need to believe. That is not
in the safe zone. However, once again, we were facing the death
something deep.” However, it is a simple revelation that can
of our promise.
change our lives if we will believe Him. Most Christians believe that Christ is the Messiah and died
I remember telling Brooke, “We are turning our phones off and I don’t care who needs us today, we are not talking to
on the cross. Yet, there are so many without the faith to believe
anyone and will just be together.” Even though my heart felt
their lives and circumstances can change and that miracles can
void, even numb, I still believed that God is faithful!
happen by the power of prayer and simply believing. Oftentimes we pray once, and if it doesn’t happen
Brooke’s doctor told us it would be several months before she would be able to conceive. Almost immediately, we found
immediately, we give up, rather than seek the heart of God on a
out that our close friends were expecting another baby. My wife
matter. Once He speaks His word to us, we need to contend for
told me that she was going to give her a baby shower. I replied,
that promise. If God speaks it, His promises are true!
“Are you sure you want to put yourself through that?”
One of my favorite verses is Hebrews 11:11, “Through faith
She looked at me with the look of faith and said, “Of
also Sara, herself, received strength to conceive seed, and was
course, I am going to throw the best baby shower I can, because
delivered of a child when she was past age, because she judged
I am doing it as a seed for our miracle baby.”
Him faithful, who had promised” (KJV). Do not consider how impossible the circumstances seem
I will never forget her lack of doubt. Even after losing two babies and months of negative pregnancy tests, she believed
surrounding your promise, because it is not about the promise, but
God. She knew what God promised, and it was only a matter of
about the One who made the promise. In spite of many years of
time before His promise came to pass.
bareness and her body being past age, Sara judged God faithful.
Only three weeks after this doctor’s visit, we learned that
My wife Brooke and I greatly desired to have a baby, but she
she was pregnant again. Nine months later, we had a healthy,
suffered from a condition that made it difficult to conceive and carry
perfect baby girl. Brooke and I named her Giuliana Faith Towe,
a baby to term. We knew God made us a promise about a child. We
because we had the faith to say, “Lord, we believe You.”
went through the excitement of learning that she was pregnant and
Brooke and I are not special. God is just looking for
then the pain of losing the baby. Our intercessors prayed and stood
someone to believe Him−anyone, who like Sara or like us that
in agreement with us. We found out once again that Brooke was
will say, “No matter what, I judge Him faithful who promised.”
pregnant. We announced to our intercessors from our church in a
Don’t give up! You cannot forfeit the promise that God has
prayer service that my wife was pregnant. Everyone was ecstatic.
made to you! Keep standing! Keep praying and keep believing!
We were rejoicing in what the Lord had done. Later that night in the early morning hours, Brooke began hurting. It was something we had experienced before, but never like this. She was further along, and it was a more traumatic experience.
6 // August 2017
Andrew Towe and his wife, Brooke, together pastor Ramp Church Chattanooga. They have one daughter, Giuliana, and are currently expecting a son this fall. Even as Ezekiel was carried out by the spirit to the valley of dry bones, Pastor Andrew has been called to speak the prophetic message of awakening to the Tennessee Valley, raising up an army of believers from the dry scattered bones and equipping them to advance the kingdom of God.
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Gò0dNews for Kids
How to Have a Great School Year
B
Twelve everyday tips that will help guide you through the year with less stress and more confidence in having a successful year. by Wendy Pierce
y the time you read this, school will be about to
tell your teacher and your parents now so you can
begin or may have already started for some of you.
get help. I have seen students ask for help the day
It is time to reunite with your friends, make new
before their last day of class. This is too late. You
friends, and time for a fresh start. It is also time to learn
need to get help as soon as possible when you
new subjects and for new challenges. Here are some tips to
do not understand something. What you learn in
help make your new school year a great experience.
school will build on what you will learn next, so
1. Read your Bible and pray every day before you go to school. You need God to help you with each day. He loves you and wants to spend time with you. 2. Starting a new school year can be exciting and
it is important to understand what you learn from the start. 6. Study and do your homework. This will help you understand your assignments and be ready for tests.
scary. Remember, you probably are not the only
7. Obey your teachers, principals, those who are older
one who is nervous about starting a new school
than you, and your classmates. Respect everyone.
year. Relax, reconnect with your friends, and
8. Offer to help someone when the person needs
make new friends. Chances are they are just as
it whether it is your teacher, your parents, or
nervous as you are.
another student.
3. Be a friend to others−especially students who may be new to the area or new to your school. It is hard to move and start over. 4. If you are just beginning a new school
9. Be kind to everyone. 10. Get plenty of rest and sleep. 11. Eat good, nutritious meals to stay healthy and keep your mind alert.
or one of the younger groups in the
12. Ask your parents to help you get
school, remember as you grow older and
organized so you know where everything
advance in school you will not always be the youngest group. One day it will be your turn to be the leader at school. 5. Pay attention in class,
is. Have your school supplies and everything you need before school starts. This will save you time. These tips will help you have a great school year and
make notes to help you
reduce your stress. Have a
remember important
great year ahead!
ideas and ask questions when there is something you do not understand. Do not be embarrassed to ask questions, because chances are, others in your class may be too scared to ask questions. If you need tutoring or extra help outside of class,
8 // August 2017
Wendy Pierce is a native of Chattanooga. She graduated from Covenant College with a Bachelor of Science degree in organizational management and from Lee University with a MBA. Currently she is a graduate teaching assistant studying Economics.
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“How to Blow $650 Million” 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.
B
y now you may have read that actor Johnny Depp is allegedly “broke.” Though he has earned over $650 million dollars thus far in his acting career, he spent the money faster than he could earn it. He is now suing his financial managers, claiming they should have somehow saved him from his own extravagant spending. For their part, the financial managers are counter-suing Depp, claiming they tried everything in their power to make him reign in his spending, but he never listened to them. How do you blow through $650 million dollars? Here’s how: Depp bought a chain of islands in the Bahamas as well as bought an entire village in France, also a 150-foot yacht, and at least forty-five luxury vehicles. In addition, he spent thirty thousand dollars per month on wines, plus untold millions on collections of art and Hollywood memorabilia, as well as keeping a staff of forty fulltime employees. When his spending outstripped his earnings, he took out loans to continue his extravagance rather than cutting back his spending. In addition, he chose his sister as his personal manager, and she loaned herself seven million dollars of her brother’s money without telling him. (If you’re reading closely, there’s a cautionary tale here about not mixing family and business as a general rule). Altogether, Depp was blowing over two million dollars per month; that’s sixty-six thousand dollars per day (and remember he’s asleep during some of those hours). No matter how much money you earn, there is always a way to spend it faster than you can earn it.
10 // August 2017
I’ve personally known people who earned one million dollars or more annually but who went bankrupt due to spending all of that and much more. As Mr. Micawber from Charles Dickens’ 1850 novel David Copperfield observed, “Annual income twenty pounds, annual expenditure nineteen [pounds] nineteen [shillings] and six [pence], result happiness. Annual income twenty pounds, annual expenditure twenty pounds ought and six, result misery." The difference between happiness and misery, according to Dickens, is the difference between living on less than you earn and spending more than you earn. Johnny Depp apparently suffers from the same mindset as many lottery winners: they quickly spend much of their money (principal) instead of investing the principal and spending only the earnings from that principal. Even at today’s paltry interest rates on CD’s and savings accounts, one percent interest on $200 million dollars is two million dollars per year. Why not live on that and leave the $200 million alone? Proverbs 21:20 advises, “The wise have wealth, but fools spend whatever they get.” Sometimes, the answer to one’s financial crisis really is increasing one’s income, and I’m a firm believer in second jobs or “side hustles” to bring in extra money. But sometimes the answer may be reducing spending, and that takes discipline. God’s Word tells us, “No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it” (Hebrews 12:11).
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Gò0dNews for Men
Act Like Men
Being a man is more than anatomy, chemistry, and genetics; it is a role, a calling, a mandate.
I
by Lawson Barber t seems that wherever you look today, whether it
unto my feet, and a light unto my path" (Ps. 119:105
be the news, movies, or the Internet, the message
ESV). Devour the Bible like it’s a medium-well steak.
being sold to you is that masculinity is somehow
Those you lead depend on it.
wrong. To be masculine is considered offensive, sexist, and "oppressive." You are told that you must be soft, compliant, and apologetic. And try as you may to comply with society's wishes, somewhere deep on the inside, you know that it's a lie. Something in the depths of your soul is crying out for you to climb the mountain, kill the villain, save the beauty, expose the heresy, preach the gospel . . . save the world. And yet before you can work up the nerve to attempt even one of these, people’s expectations and the cares of this world come crashing down on you, crushing you so deeply that you never have the guts to try to accomplish anything so daring again. Can this cycle be broken? Absolutely, but it will take courage. In the Book of 1 Corinthians, the apostle Paul exhorted saying, "Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong" (16:13 ESV). These words are essential to accomplishing God's purpose for your life as a man.
Watchful
To be watchful means
to be alert, aware, and to pay attention. As men, we are called to be leaders, and we cannot expect to lead well if our focus is lost. We can only take someone where we have been, and we will never go ourselves if we are blinded. God's Word is able to give you the clarity of vision that you need: "Your Word is a lamp
12 // August 2017
Firm
First Peter 5:8-9 tells us, "Be sober-minded; be
watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Resist him, firm in your faith . . . “(ESV).” When adversity comes, (and it will) how you respond can have lasting effect upon those entrusted to your care. It’s one thing to see threats when they come; it’s another to face them down. God has put in you the ability to face down all of hell and win, but to do this you must be tough, you must be firm.
Strong
“Be strong and of good courage, fear not,
nor be afraid of them: for the Lord your God, it is He that goes with you; He will not fail you, nor forsake you” (Deut. 31:6 MEV). You can be strong because God is strong . . . and He is with you. Great confidence is available to those who know God’s Word on a matter and obey it. God blesses those who live like this; therefore, have courage and obey Regardless of the difficulties that we may face, God is with those who trust in Him; therefore, let us be watchful, let us be firm, let us be strong; let us act like men. As a husband, father, and pastor, Lawson's driving passion is for the Word of God to be declared accurately and clearly that the lost may be saved, discipled, and sent to reach others. An advocate of church influence, he speaks regularly on current events and cultural issues from a Biblical perspective. Lawson is both the associate and student pastor of Ramp Church Chattanooga.
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Gò0dNews for Women
Get Ready for Your Double
Sometimes we place ourselves in a “box” and can only see what is around us. What if God has more for us?
W
by Brooke Towe
hen I turned thirty, my husband and I began our
God for was my little girl, but He also had a little boy for our
journey toward having our first child. It was a
family as well. He had a double blessing for us!
long process, which resulted in many devastating
Sometimes in life, we can only pray for the immediate,
months due to several miscarriages. During the year before
what is right in front of us, or what we are dealing with at that
I conceived, I recall lying on my floor begging and pleading
moment. It is almost as if we are in a “box” and can only see
with God for a baby. I prayed specifically for a baby girl who
what is around us, but what if we limit God by praying for one
would be bright, bubbly, and full of life. That is all I prayed for
child when He has double for us?
during that hard time. In 2011 God indeed blessed us with that baby girl,
Isaiah 61:7 says, "Instead of your shame you will receive a double portion, and instead of disgrace you will rejoice in your
Giuliana Faith Towe, our miracle baby and the apple of our
inheritance. And so you will inherit a double portion in your
eyes. A few months ago, a stirring in us began to take place.
land, and everlasting joy will be yours" (NIV).
What if God has more for us? What if His plan was to give
In a related passage, Job 42:10, God restored to Job twice
us another child? Quickly after this, we found out, I was
as much as he originally had before his time of testing: “And
pregnant. This was a huge shock! There was no waiting, crying,
the Lord restored the fortunes of Job, when he had prayed for
lying on the floor, begging, pleading, and visiting numerous
his friends. And the Lord gave Job twice as much as he had
doctors. It was “suddenly,” I was pregnant. This took weeks to
before” (RSV). Job at this time, received a “double portion.”
sink in, and we were scared to get too excited because of the many disappointments in our past. One day I was spending time with the Lord, just praying and thanking Him for what He is doing in our family, church,
So today, if you are praying and believing for something specific from God, take the limits off, believe He can exceed your expectation and give you a double portion! Believe Him today! It is a season of double.
and lives, when I heard Him say, “In all of those nights you sought me for your little girl, I also had this little boy picked out and set aside for you as well.” At this point, I began to rejoice because, during that season, all I could pray for and ask
14 // August 2017
Brooke Towe is co-pastor of Ramp Church Chattanooga and owner of Booked by Brooke travel. However, she considers being a wife to Pastor Andrew Towe and mother to their daughter, Giuliana, as the most important part of her career. Additionally, they are expecting their second child, a son, in November of 2017. Brooke Towe graduated from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga in 2003, with BS degrees in Business Marketing and Finance. She continues to develop her talents daily.
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Gò0dNews for your Taste Buds
Sweet and Sour Tofu
A
by Kevin Gardner
s a person who organizes health events on a regular
is an unfermented alternative to soy sauce, but you can
basis, I try to set a good example by cooking the
use regular soy sauce if you don’t have Braggs, and it
most wholesome, appetizing dishes I can find. To
should work just fine.
my surprise; however, all the sweet and sour tofu recipes
3. Pour blended mixture into a small pot, stir in
online were either deep-fried or saturated with unhealthful
cornstarch, and heat on high until the color changes
flavorings. On the spot, I decided to experiment, and I came
from a calm red to a vibrant orange. Congratulations,
up with this recipe.
you’ve now made your own sweet and sour sauce.
Unless you’re Asian or vegan, tofu might be the last thing you’d think of making for dinner. This recipe, however, might make you think again. Simple, healthful, and full of flavor,
4. Remove the mixture from the pot and mix it with the baked tofu. Enjoy! 5. Leftovers of this recipe are even better than when
this tofu has a delightful balance of texture and taste. It swaps
served fresh, since the tofu will marinate in the fridge
ingredients like vinegar and white sugar for more natural and
overnight. You can also rebake the tofu after it’s been
healthier ingredients like lemon juice and honey. It also has
in the fridge, if you want to dry out the sweet and sour
the added bonus of being baked rather than deep fried. Just
sauce.
serve it over rice or with a stir-fry and enjoy!
Sweet and Sour Tofu
Stir Fry ½ onion, chopped
1 16 oz. package extra firm tofu
2 cloves garlic
1/2 cup pineapple
3 cups cabbage, sliced thin
1/2 can tomato paste
2 cups broccoli, chopped
1 tbsp. honey (or more to taste)
1/3 cup carrots, chopped small
1 tbsp. Braggs liquid aminos
2 tbsp. water
Juice of 1-2 lemons (or less to taste)
2-3 tbsp. lemon juice or
2 tbsp. corn starch
1 tbsp. Braggs or Soy Sauce
Instructions 1. Pre-heat oven to 350 degrees F. Cut tofu into small
2 tbsp. sesame seeds, toasted
Instructions
cubes and bake on a lightly oiled pan at 350 degrees F.
1. Sauté onions and garlic until onion becomes translucent.
for about 30 minutes, until lightly browned. Proceed
2. Add remaining ingredients. Cook until somewhat soft.
with the next two steps while you wait for
3. Wrap with cabbage leaves.
the tofu to bake. 2. Blend pineapple, tomato paste, honey, Braggs, and lemon juice until smooth. This mixture will function as the base for your sweet and sour sauce. By the way, Braggs
16 // August 2017
Kevin Gardner works for Health Made Simple, a lifestyle club that holds programs like cooking classes, dinner with the doctor, and natural remedies programs. He enjoys cooking, playing his violin, studying the Bible and spending time with his beloved girlfriend, Aryn.
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Chattanooga Church Directory Anglican
Anglican Church of the Redeemer 423.892.1101 104 McBrien Rd, 37411
Assembly of God
Calvary Church 423.629.1200 1212 South Seminole Drive, 37412 Fresh Fire Awakening 423.255.3103 Chattanooga, 37421
Baptist Bayside Baptist Church 423-344-8327 6100 Hwy 58 Harrison, TN 37416 Covenant Baptist Church 423.892.5542 1640 N. Joiner Rd, 37421 Duncan Park Baptist Church 706.899.3707 1609 Glowmont Dr, 37412 New Haven Baptist Church 423.855.4910 1058 Graysville Rd, 37421 Middle Cross Baptist Church 423.877.5742 4009 Norcross Rd, 37343 Heritage Baptist Church 423.499.5060 2934 Hickory Valley Rd, 37421 Ridgeview Baptist Church 423.899.1530 6 Moore Rd, 37411 Spring Creek Road Baptist 423.894.0700 1312 Spring Creek Rd, 37412 Alpine Baptist Church 423.875.3522 4720 Stagg Rd, 37415 Ashland Terrace Baptist Church 423.877.4392 906 Ashland Terrace, 37415 Avondale Baptist Church 423.344.2208 5479 Hwy 58, 37416 Bartle Baugh Baptist Church 423.344.5207 6129 Champion Rd, 37416 Berean Baptist Church 423.629.1634 1614 Kirby Ave, 37404 Bethel Baptist Church 423.875.9107 632 Lullwater Rd, 37405 Bethlehem Baptist Church 423.266.5484 101 Lawn St, 37405 Bible Way Baptist Church 423.624.2149 2003 Elmendorf St, 37406
18 // August 2017
Brainerd Baptist Church 423.624.2606 300 Brookfield Ave, 37411 Brainerd Hills Baptist Church 423.892.6645 6611 East Brainerd Rd, 37421 Calvary Baptist Church 423.875.8154 5201 Dayton Blvd, 37415 Central Baptist Church 423.624.4678 901 Woodmore Ln, 37411 Charity Baptist Church 423.267.6576 2340 Rossville Blvd, 37408 Clifton Hill Baptist Church 423.867.4887 3616 Rossville Blvd, 37407 Concord Baptist Church 423.892.9313 7025 East Brainerd Rd, 37421 East Brainerd Baptist Church 423.892.4235 1047 Graysville Rd, 37421 East Lake Baptist Church 423.698.1597 3315 12th Ave, 37407 East Ridge Baptist Church 423.698.2421 4201 Ringgold Rd, 37412 Edgewood Baptist Church 423.629.5821 3604 Ringgold Road, 37412 Empowerment Church 423.355.5576 1203 Blocker Lane, 37412 Faith Baptist Church 423.344.9712 8834 North Hickory Valley, 37416 Fellowship Baptist Church 423.894.8080 5335 Clemons Rd, 37412 First Baptist Church 423.265.2257 401 Gateway Ave, 37402 First Baptist Church 423.629.1950 1228 Latta St, 37406 First Baptist Church 423.265.3229 506 East 8th St., 37403 First Calvary Baptist Church 423.267.5159 300 Bell Ave, 37405 Grace Baptist Church 423.892.4869 7815 Shallowford Rd, 37421 Greater Beulah Baptist Church 423.624.0418 1301 Commerce St, 37404 Harmony Baptist Church 423.629.9660 3832 Youngstown Rd, 37406 Hickory Valley Baptist Church
423.892.1916 2320 Hickory Valley Rd, 37421 Church of the Highlands 423.493.4111 6621 Hunter Road, Harrison, TN 37341 Hillcrest Baptist Church 423.867.2812 3300 East 42nd St, 37407 Independent Baptist Church 423.875.3054 2624 Lyndon Ave, 37412 International Baptist Church 423.624.8638 1512 Old Ringgold Rd, 37404 Kings Point Baptist Church 423.624.5202 2834 Harrison Pike, 37403 Kingwood Baptist Church 423.624.7301 3522 Ringgold Rd, 37412 LifeSpring Baptist Church 423.892.8469 1701 Hickory Valley Road, 3742 New Hope Missionary Baptist 423.697.7000 3777 Wilcox Blvd, 37411 Lookout Valley Baptist Church 423.825.5335 23 Lilac Ave, 37419 Macedonia Baptist Church 423.267.6915 1156 East Main St, 374081 Mission Ridge Baptist Church 423.624.0424 302 Shallowford Rd, 37411 Morris Hill Baptist Church 423.892.2071 1804 Morris Hill Rd, 37421 Mount Paran Baptist Church 423.629.2377 1319 Moss Dr, 37411 New Grace Baptist Church 423.899.5510 7861 Lee Hwy, 37421 Orchard Knob Baptist Church 423.629.6115 1734 East 3rd St, 37404 Philadelphia Baptist Church 423.629.5786 2230 East 18th St, 37404 Pilgrim Rock Baptist Church 423.894.7548 1726 Church Rd, 37421 Pleasant Hill Baptist Church 423.892.0237 1441 Crawford Rd, 37421 Prospect Baptist Church 423.698.4149 734 Dodson Ave, 37404 Resurrected Reformed Baptist 423.698.8086 2230 East 18th Street, 37404 Ridgedale Baptist Church
423.499.0994 1831 Hickory Valley Road, 37421 Rose of Sharon Baptist Church 423.629.9534 2001 Blackford St, 37404 Second Baptist Church 423.629.6039 1619 East Main St, 37404 Shiloh Baptist Church 423.267.3131 1708 Carr St, 37408 Silverdale Baptist Church 423.892.2173 7236 Bonny Oaks Dr, 37421 Standifer Gap Baptist Church 423.892.8596 8159 Standifer Gap Rd, 37421 Stanley Heights Baptist Church 423.867.8060 1512 Mcbrien Rd, 37412 Temple Baptist Church 423.622.1913 3200 Rossville Blvd, 37407 Terra Vista Baptist Church 423.892.3879 4412 Oakwood Dr, 37416 Tucker Baptist Church 423.510.9684 1115 North Moore Rd, 37411 Washington Park Baptist 423.899.9408 1823 Shepherd Rd, 37421 Westview Baptist Church 423.899.0127 9516 East Brainerd Rd, 37421 Woodland Park Baptist Church 423.899.9185 6735 Standifer Gap Rd, 37421
Church of God East Chattanooga COG 423.894.7926 4924 Hwy 58, 37416 East Lake Church of God 423.698.6522 2949 East 29th St, 37407 Brainerd Hills Church of God 423.892.2092 410 Friar Rd, 37421 City Church of Chattanooga 423.894.6982 7122 Lee Hwy, 37421 Church of God of Prophecy 423.899.4074 3927 Webb Rd, 37416 Church of God of Prophecy 423.894.0597 2201 Hickory Valley Rd, 37421 Church of God of the Union Assembly 706.313.3489 1014 Spring Creek Rd, 37412 Church of God Seventh Day 423.899.5490 7504 Old Lee Hwy, 37421
East Brainerd Church of God 423.899.4755 8312 East Brainerd Rd, 37421 The Crossing Church 423.867.7287 7501 Standifer Gap Rd, 37421 East Side Church of God 423.624.8797 2105 Citico Ave, 37404 Fellowship Church of God 423.867.3194 3426 Clio Ave, 37407 Holy Temple Church of God 423.629.2649 2311 Bliss St, 37406 Joyful Noise Church of God 423.698.1813 1614 Foust St, 37404 Omega Harvest Church 423.875.0033 4904 Dayton Blvd, 37415 Pure Holiness Church of God 423.622.4667 420 North Holly St, 37404 Redemption Point 423-855-7321 3831 Ooltewah-Ringgold Rd. Ooltewah, TN 37363 Temple of Faith Church of God 423.698.2700 2139 East 27th 37407 United Temple Church of God 423.624.1037 2418 Dodson Ave, 37406 Vision Church of God 423.624.7170 4901 Midland Pike, 37411 Word Center Church of God 423.867.3330 4803 13th Ave, 37407
Nazarene Calvary Church of the Nazarene 423.892.5771 4400 Bonny Oaks Dr, 37416 East Ridge Church of the Nazarene 423.864.8828 5821 Ringgold Rd, 37412 First Church of the Nazarene 423.893.7756 5455 North Terrace, 37411 Lookout Valley Church of the Nazarene
423.821.2332 136 S. Aster Avenue, 37419
Community Church Cosmopolitan Community Church 423.622.3217 3031 Wilcox Blvd, 37411 Friendship Community Church 423.698.3471 7 North Tuxedo Dr, 37411 Metropolitan Community Church 423.629.2737 1601 Foust St, 37404
Lutheran
Ascension Lutheran Church 423.698.5047 720 South Germantown Rd, 37412 First Lutheran Church Pastor Mark McCrory 423-629-5990; www.first4u.org 2800 McCallie Avenue Chattanooga, TN 37404 Good Shepherd Lutheran Rev. H. Christopher Sheets 423.629.4661 www.gslcflock.org 822 Belvoir Ave, 37412 Saint Phillip Lutheran Church 423.267.1475 51 West 25th St, 37408
Methodist Jones Memorial UMC 423.624.6073 4131 Ringgold Rd, 37412 Mount Crest UMC 423.881.4165 8206 Cicero Tr, 37421 St John UMC 423.892.2257 3921 Murray Hills Dr, 37416 Wesley Memorial UMC 423.892.6446 6314 E. Brainerd Rd, 37421 East Ridge UMC Pastor Ken Sauer 423-892-8451; eastridgeumc.org 1601 Prater Road, East Ridge, TN 37412 Stanley UMC 423.624.6729 501 Dodson Ave, 37404 Washington Hills UMC 423.892.8050 6216 Hadley Dr, 37416 Cleveland Trinity UMC 423.892.6926 9028 Warbler Ln, 37421 East Lake UMC 423.624.4921 2903 East 37th St, 37407 St Elmo UMC 423.490.7039 4626 St Elmo Avenue, 37409 Lake Vista UMC 423.892.4941 6216 Hadley Dr, 37416 Saint Mary CME Church 423.622.2742 1417 Wheeler Ave, 37406 Sheares Memorial UMC 423.855.2004 515 Airport Rd, 37421 Sheares Memorial UMC 423.698.4114 400 Glenwood Dr, 37404 Tyner UMC 423.892-0444 6805 Standifer Gap Rd, 37421
Non-Denominational
Christian Family Church 423.774.8888 88 Hunt Drive Rossville, GA 30741 The Sacred Heart Mission of Chattanooga 423.238.3835 3914 St Elmo Ave, 37409 Faith Connection Church 423.933.6986 7312 Shallowford Rd, 37421 Free To Worship Revival Center 423.650.9172 9966 Lovell Rd. Soddy Daisy, TN 37379 Metropolitan Tabernacle 423.894.3377 2101 West Shepherd Rd, 37422 Carpenters Cowboy Church 423.867.4232 3616 Rossville Blvd, 37407 Brainerd Hills Chapel Church 423.899.3098 5931 Pinegrove Tr, 37421 Chattanooga Church 423.892.2888 6188 Adamson Circle, 37416 Christian Church of Hope 423.855.0767 2330 Hickory Valley Rd, 37421 Church of Jesus 423.629.5051 2118 Wilson St, 37406 Church of the First Born 423.756.0704 3418 St Elmo Ave, 37409 Church of the Lord Jesus 423.265.8235 200 West 19th St, 37408 Mount Summit of Peace Church 423.899.0434 6925 Shallowford Rd, 37421 New Covenant Church 423.867.2121 3700 Clio Ave, 37407 New Covenant Fellowship Church 423.899.8001 1326 North Moore Road, 37411 The Net Church Carmike East Ridge 18 5080 South Terrace, 37412 Ramp Church Chattanooga 423.531.7267 3975 TN-2, 37411 Walker Avenue First Church 423.622.2982 2101 Walker St, 37404 Worlds Church of the Living God 423.622.2992 2110 Glass St, 37406
Pentecostal
Sharon Pentecostal Church 423.867.7088 1400 East 48th St, 37407 Virtuous Church Pastor Richard O. Smith 5952 Brainerd Road Chattanooga, TN 37412 (423)521-4440 www.virtuouschurch.org Word of Pentecost Church 423.624.2620 1722 Newton St, 37406
Presbyterian First Cumberland Presbyterian 423.698.2556 1505 North Moore Rd, 37411 Central Presbyterian Church 423.629.1401 1815 McCallie Ave, 37404 Covenant Presbyterian Church 423.899.5377 8451 East Brainerd Rd, 37421 East Ridge Presbyterian Church 423.867.2717 4919 Court Dr, 37412 First Presbyterian Church 423.267.1206 554 McCallie Ave, 37402 New Hope Presbyterian Church 423.892.0853 7301 Shallowford Rd, 37421 North Minster Presbyterian 423.894.3773 4791 Hal Dr, 37416 St Elmo Presbyterian Church 423.821.1424 4400 St Elmo Ave, 37409 Second Presbyterian Church 423.266.2828 700 Pine St, 37402 Valleybrook Presbyterian Church 6001 Hixson Pike, 37343
Vineyard Vineyard Christian Fellowship 423.704.2188 10615 London Ln, 37302
Seventh-Day Collegedale Community 9503 Four Corners Place Collegedale, TN 37363 Hamilton County Church 7997 Shallowford Rd Chattanooga, TN 37421 Orchard Park SDA Church 423.698.0707 951 N. Orchard Knob Ave, 37404
Wesleyan Faith Community Wesleyan 7725 Shallowford Road Chattanooga, TN 37421
Emanuel Pentecostal Church 423.821.5261 4204 Ohls Ave, 37410 Redemption To The Nations 423.591.7886 1908 Bailey Ave, 37404 issuu.com/goodnewschatt
// 19
Gò0dNews for Parents
Pause and Rest
W
Placing God in the center of our lives will regain the necessary peace and strength to be effective parents. by Danny Hesterly
hoever said being a parent was easy was probably never a parent, Right! Parenting is one of the greatest joys in my life and at the same
time can be one of the most frustrating things I’ve ever experienced. Let’s be real . . . being a parent is exhausting. Yesterday was one of those days where everything my kids did got on my nerves. I probably lost my cool with them four to five times over things that were pretty insignificant. The truth was I stayed out late the night before watching a movie and got home around 1:00 a.m. Then, I chose to stay up for another hour to catch up on social media. I finally wandered into bed around 2:30 a.m. Next thing I know, my little girl is poking me in the face signaling me she wants breakfast. My wife had gone to work and I staggered into the kitchen, more than half asleep, heated up some cinnamon swirl bread and went back to bed. All I wanted to do was sleep. All my kiddos wanted to do was play and hang with Dad. I was so tired, and it was no one’s fault but mine. I’m not a perfect parent, but I have two beautiful and amazing children who deserve my best. Think about times you were frustrated with your child. Was it due to the lack of rest, or having too much on your plate? These things can cause strain on all areas of life, including parenting. I’m learning how incorporating Sabbath in my weekly routine helps me grow in my walk with God and in return
become a better parent.
The Need for Sabbath
Sabbath can be narrowed down to this working defini-
tion: “intentionally taking moments to pause and rest.” Our bodies and minds were created with the need to rest. Rest brings clarity of mind and strength to our bodies. When we are rested, we are able to give our best because we are at our best. Sabbath is seen in the very beginning when God rested after creating the world and again when God inscribes the Ten Commandments on stone and gives them to Moses. We find Jesus talking about Sabbath in Mark 2:27 and how it was made to meet the needs of the people. To be the kind of parents that honor and raise spiritual champions, we need Sabbath to be part of our weekly routine. When we choose to take time to pause and rest, we are placing God in the center of our lives to regain the necessary peace and strength to be effective parents. How does a person make Sabbath a priority? Here are some quick tips. ● Sabbath won’t happen automatically. If you don’t put it on a calendar, it most likely will not happen. ● Decide how long it needs to be and where. You may want to take a walk around your neighborhood or a local park. Somewhere you can find time to relax, get away, or visit a coffee shop and read a book. You may simply sit on your back porch and take a nap. ● Tell someone about it. When you talk about it with a friend, you build accountability. ● Make this a family initiative. Taking time to rest together and modeling that in front of your family can be one of the most spiritual things you’ll do as a family.
20 // August 2017
Danny Hesterly is the family ministries pastor at City Church Chattanooga. He’s been married to his lovely bride, Erin for 13 years and has two wonderful kiddos, Micah-8 and Ava-6.
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FEATURED COVER STORY
Advanced Surgical Concepts
Office-based surgery can offer the convenience of having a procedure done in a more comfortable setting and with a quick return home. Charges associated with ambulatory surgery are less than fees charged at a large hospital. Dr. James White of Chattanooga, is an accredited
A
general surgery after medical school. He holds triple board
office based surgery facility. Dr. James E. White,
certifications by the American Board of Surgery and the
dvanced Surgical Concepts (ASC), the home of
Dr. White completed his core residency training in
MD, FACS offers surgical expertise from the latest cosmetic
American board of Lymphatic and Venous Medicine [the
surgery procedures, state of the art diagnostic tools and
study of vein diseases] and the American Board of Cosmetic
treatment options for a variety of surgical and non-surgical
Surgery. Dr. White is a Fellow of the prestigious American
cosmetic issues. Treatments, cosmetic surgery, and therapies
College of Surgeons and Diplomat of the American Board of
are performed at his state-of-the-art facility in Chattanooga
Phlebology with appointments as Diplomat of the American
as well as outpatient surgery centers and options for full
Academy of Cosmetic Surgery.
licensed hospitals in the local area. ASC and Dr. White are known for a Christian office. Toni Ryan, FNP, nurse practice, has worked with Dr.
Dr. White is the medical director of Advanced Surgical Concepts. After completing his undergraduate work in biology at the University of Georgia, Dr. White went on to
White for 17 years. She states, “Our practice has been
graduate magna cum laude from the Medical College of
greatly blessed every day. Our surgical suites have been
Georgia. He completed a general surgery residency at the
certified by Accreditation Association for Ambulatory
University of Tennessee, Chattanooga, and has been active
Health Care (AAAHC) as well as the State of Tennessee.
in office-based cosmetic surgery procedures for the last ten
Patients can expect safety first at our state of the art surgical
years.
facility”. Patients will find a rare combination of artistic
“Our patients most often request varicose vein surgery,
surgical skills with compassionate exceptional patient care
laser skin resurfacing, skin cancer treatment options, eyelid
from the highly trained staff at ASC.
lift surgery, facelift, liposuction, facial fillers, Botox, Dysport,
22 // August 2017
facial fillers, Radiesse, Perlane, fat transfer, Fractionated CO2 laser resurfacing, VASER liposuction, breast enhancement surgery, torn earlobe repair, and facial rejuvenation procedures,” commits Dr. White. Dr. White is one of only a few hundred USA physicians to be named as “Diplomat of the American Board of Phlebology.” His vast experience with X-ray and ultrasound allowed him to pursue advanced training in Phlebology (the study of veins) with an emphasis on the use of EVLA laser closure and ultrasound guided sclerotherapy in the non-surgical treatment of vein diseases. He has completed more than 8,000 endovenous ablation procedures since 2002 in the advanced laser treatment for varicose veins and vein diseases. His office uses state-of-the-art surgical and nonsurgical treatments for varicose veins; to include laser, RF VNUS and Clarivein procedures. With the change to an office-based surgery practice, Dr. White and his family have been able to make medical/ surgical mission trips to Mexico and Haiti. He has been able to participate in medical missions with the International Medical Assistance–IMA-missions.org. As a surgeon, Dr. White has been eager to share his expertise in surgery with less fortunate people of third world countries. Dr. White is a fourteen-year veteran of the United States Air Force Reserve, completing his tour as a Lt. Colonel. On a more personal note, Dr. White, his wife Casi and two sons Cole and Carson are members of Silverdale Baptist Church of Chattanooga, Tennessee. Since 1998, they have called Cleveland, Tennessee their home. As evidenced by his commitment to continued postgraduate education, Dr. White has completed advanced cosmetic training with the leading world experts in cosmetic surgery. He prides himself with an eye for detail and uses the most current technology and equipment. Surgeons are doing more than just checkups in their offices these days. Advances in medical technology have made it possible for physicians to perform more advanced and complex surgical procedures safely in their offices. Whether it is vein surgery, skin cancer excisions, tummytuck, breast augmentation, facelift or a complex biopsy, these procedures can be completed safely in our office-based surgery suites. Since most patients want to avoid an overnight hospital stay after surgery, ambulatory surgical procedures have become very popular. That’s why almost one-half of all surgeries are now being done in an outpatient facility, either connected to a hospital or in a separate surgical center. More recently though, there has been a growing trend for surgery to be done right in a doctor’s office because charges associated with ambulatory surgery completed in an office setting are substantially lower.
The same anesthetic techniques used in hospitals and ambulatory surgical centers are used in office-based surgery. They include: • Local anesthesia, which provides numbness to a small area of the body, such as a dermatologist might use to numb the skin around a mole before removing it. • Monitored anesthesia (sedation/analgesia), during which a patient receives medications that relieve pain and make the patient drowsy. During surgery, the patient’s vital signs, including heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen level, will be watched closely in order to avoid sudden changes or complications. • Regional anesthesia, which can include spinal blocks, epidural blocks or extremity blocks. Spinal and epidural blocks involve interrupting sensation from the legs or abdomen by injecting local anesthetic medication in or near the spinal canal. Other blocks can be performed for surgery on extremities, or limbs, blocking sensations from the arm or leg. • General anesthesia, which involves the total loss of consciousness, pain sensation, and protective airway responses. From the simple removal of a mole to breast augmentation/reduction, liposuction, hernia repairs, or advanced surgical excision of skin cancers can be completed in our surgical suites. In addition to venous diseases, Advanced Surgical Concepts offers cosmetic procedures designed to lift and tighten skin, reverse sun damage and aging, decrease fine lines and wrinkles, as well as total facial-body skin rejuvenations. The friendly Christian staff at Advanced Surgical Concepts believes that patients have both physical and spiritual needs. Their goal is to ensure that both needs are met. Dr. White states, “We are available to see patients in consultation, in most cases without referral. We offer complementary varicose vein screening examinations and cosmetic consultations. Please call 473-2900 or 648-4011 or log on to our website advsurgical.com to make your confidential private appointment.”
issuu.com/goodnewschatt // 23
Gò0dNews for Everyone
Take the First Step
“So as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience; bearing with one another, and forgiving each other, whoever has a complaint against anyone; just as the Lord forgave you, so also should you.” —Colossians 3:12-14 NASB by Madaline McFarland
T
he desire to succeed is an integral part of our design. God created each of us to flourish and be successful in the work He prepared for us to do. However, too often we attempt to promote ourselves by demoting others in the process. We have become a society that is obsessed with comparing, criticizing, and judging the faults of others instead of correcting our own. It seems we are trapped not only in a vicious cycle of gloating over the mishaps of others but also in despising their rewards. In order for our culture to change, we must choose to instead take steps toward kindness. Immediately after the fall of mankind, the fingerpointing began. Adam blamed God and Eve for his disobedience, and then Eve blamed the serpent. Today, children and adults engage in name-calling and placing blame on anyone or anything to avoid the responsibility of their actions. We justify our own bad behavior by saying someone else behaved badly first. The Pharisees created laws which made it impossible for anyone to be considered righteous except themselves. In Matthew 22, they asked Jesus to name the greatest of the commandments to which He responded something like this: “Look guys, I can sum up the commands of all the Laws and the Prophets in two sentences. First, keep God first in all things; loving Him with all your heart, soul, and mind. Secondly, love your neighbors the same way you love yourself.” Previously, Jesus had given the instruction, which is today known as the “Golden Rule”
24 // August 2017
to those He was teaching. “In everything, therefore, treat people the same way you want them to treat you, for this is the Law and the Prophets” (Matt. 7:12 NASB). Jesus taught them that God was a good Father who wanted them to have all they needed and then some. All that was required of them was to seek out a relationship with the Father by loving Him and by loving others. Can you imagine what our world would look like if God’s people just followed those two commandments? Peter summed things up this way in 1 Peter 3:8-12: “Be harmonious, sympathetic, brotherly, kindhearted, and humble in spirit; not returning evil for evil or insult for insult, but giving a blessing instead” (NASB). He goes on to say, if you are obedient to God’s Word, then the following will be yours: 1. Receive the blessings God has stored up for you. 2. God will turn His eyes toward you. 3. Your prayers will be heard. Think about the person who brings the most contention in your life. Is it a sibling, co-worker, boss, or even your spouse? Are you willing to swallow your pride and to take a step toward kindness and speak blessing over them instead? You may not see results right away, but be persistent. Each step you take will cause great strides to be made toward healing relationships and changing our culture. Most importantly, it will impact your relationship with the Father. So what are you waiting for? Go ahead and take the first step. Madaline McFarland is a self published author, speaker, and encourager to families. She has a BA in Christian Counseling and 18 years of experience in children and family ministry. She and her husband David write and minister at ignitingfamilies.com and inspire families to serve the Lord with passion, purity, prayer, and purpose.
LIST YOUR Church Activities & Events Special Events Such As... •Revivals •Cookouts •Concerts •Fundraisers •Etc. articles.goodnews@gmail.com 423.478.6484
Gò0dNews for Teens
A Matter of the Heart
How we chose to dress often times shows the intentions of our heart clearly. by Amy Wilson
I
was out shopping last weekend with my fourteen-
year-old Mom is nuts. You are hot, and you want to wear
year-old daughter. Every dress she would try on was
whatever you want to. You don’t need anyone telling
too short or too tight, showed too much cleavage, and
you what you can wear, but the Lord gives us guidance
the list goes on. My daughter saw nothing wrong with
on all matters—even how to dress. You are so valuable
how the dresses fit. She said that if I made her wear a
to your parents, to your friends, but also to your Savior.
modest dress, she would be made fun of. What? We did find a dress, but the Lord showed me some
When you are going out with that boy or girl you are crushing on you take time to fix your hair. You take
things about modesty that I want to share with you.
time to pick out the best outfit, but is that outfit to show
The first major lesson I learned was modesty goes so
this person that you respect him or her and you want a
much deeper than the clothes a person puts on her
relationship with Christ first and them second? Or does
back. Modesty is a matter of the heart. Are you wearing
that outfit you spent hours picking out show just a little
that two-piece to be noticed? Are you wanting to draw
cleavage here or there to make sure they ask you out
attention to yourself? Paul tells us in 1 Timothy 2:9-10
again? What is the motive inside your heart?
that we should “dress modestly, with decency and propriety, not with braided hair or gold
“Do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost who is in you,
or pearls or expensive cloths, but with good
whom you have from God, and you are
deeds, appropriate for women who profess
not your own? For you were bought at a
to worship God.” I know you just rolled your eyes! I am
price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s” (1
not saying that you can’t braid your hair
Corin. 6:19-20 NKJV). My prayer for you
or wear jewelry or have nice cloths. What
today is that you will search your heart
I am saying is you shouldn’t wear those
the next time you are getting dresses on
things if your purpose is to draw attention to yourself. Dressing to get attention is the wrong motivation. We were called for so much more. Summer is upon
this hot summer day. Ask the Lord if your motives are pure. Now here’s the deal-breaker often times: When you hear the Lord speak so softly to your heart maybe
us. Many of you are
your motives are not pure, so
reading this sitting
be ready and willing to obey
by the pool
His sweet voice!
thinking to
Modesty is a matter
yourself, This
of the heart, not just
almost forty-
showing skin!
26 // August 2017
Amy Wilson is the development director at Teen Challenge Midsouth Adult Center in Chattanooga, Tennessee, and served as Youth Pastor for many years in the Cleveland area. She is married with one child and serving both at her local church and serves on the Council for a prison ministry called Kairos.
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Gò0dNews for Seniors
Gò0dNews for Seniors Gò0dNews for Seniors
Seventy Years Strong Intergenerational Intersection Strength in Being Alone bywith Esmerelda LeeI have Staying and involved their church, theirlearned work in through the community, Being alone is a choice, I want to share what seniors. and their family has kept this couple’s love strong! by Esmerelda Lee uring the month of May, our oldest son Based on demographics alone, it behooves us as by million. Esmerelda Lee
D SI Reinventing Yourself after Retirement graduated from high school. parents, ince I have begun my new job, IMy have been who
a nation to find way atofirm communicate. Highetyou hand andaoffer handshakeGilbert to someone
enjoy an inspiring old love stories. Favorites like
adhere to a strong work ethic. Mitchell attributes his
hadAn notAffair visitedtoin five of years, made special said, “Wherever there are beginners and experts, traveling weekly. Most my time isaspent recently a restaurant. Remember, Love is a Many Splendid sons’encountered successes tointheir mother. He old didand say that he
trip to meeting see their oldest grandchild graduate, and enjoyed there isBetty some kind of learning going on, kind“some new people, andmove even though I am • Being alone is an opportunity to try newsome things. Thing, and others me more than some young, and believed in giving their children
of the modern-day love stories on the Hallmarkof teaching. good that helped every minute ofsenior the pomp andeach circumstance that goes We lickings,” are all an pupils and we who aretoo. allbegan teachers.” still working in living, week is completely Recently, I met older lady line
R
Channel. There is something to beEsmerelda said about theLee by InShe a world where so many people along with anfilled American high school graduation. Interacting older adults enables youth to focus on their different and with opportunity. What I haveAs they dancing. with had never danced while married purity and innocence of the courtship and love
own happiness and make life-altering decisions
rose to the singing of the American anthem, and develop social skills, problem discovered, however, is that aold lot movies. ofnational my time is spent morenetworks, than fiftycommunication years, but Inow that she depicted through I am also honored to for based on these motives, asked Betty and Mitchell
ecently, I read that “Retirement isplayed youinstop money toalone, start their own business, and years applauded when every graduate walked across the stage, solving abilities, positive attitudes toward aging, and alone. Whether I am traveling, awhen hotel out room or having found herself rather than sit inthe hersixty-nine home see these love storiesin real life retirement through if they were happy throughout older adults. Couples that fell inLiving love and marriage. “We lost, always it I saw tears intimes, their eyes. In South Africa, aexperience student’s final a sense ofof community service, according to Generations most I am alone. This new hasstayed and mope over years she worked decided toout, try and if we living meals, at work and start working at living. finally work for themselves. in love through a world war, the Depression, life
didn’t laugh at each other, we found someone or
day of high isand the day United (2002). Older caused me toschool pause totally new. without an alarm clock, living spend hours care arena hassomething benefitted older in challenges, raisingto and burying loved ones are The health something to laugh about. You’ll from have problems whenabout he or she takes thewe last think the seniors
couples lovedtofor life.day—is that golfing, and having no rigid that agenda your
adults benefit from Never foralso a moment
who doesn’t? You just havethrough to talk it adults that marriage, still feel abut strong call to impact lives
exam,daily, walksand around saying serve the and fact Betty Mitchell Lyle are a local Cleveland
the positive mindset, a spectator discern out,” Mitch replied.could
retirement? So when Imust wasfeel asked to in give presentation community service and volunteering. This is not a fought, new goodbye one’s teachers, vibrant attitudes, couple that theafirst grade at When I asked if they ever that manyto themet that this beautiful Arnold Memorial School. For Mitchell it they looked puzzled. “Who doesn’t recently to a large group of seniors venture for seniors; however,seventy-eight-year-old since the population of and then is finally finished.in Knoxville, and vitality of a same way. was love at first sight. Betty believes that
a graduation IBetween haverequested thought many Tennessee, and they the topic, “Re-inventing the grinning first-grader grew on her
fight? We are both so different, and
younger generation. lady had lost a daughterefforts seniors is growing at a rapid pace, volunteering we like different things. When we
party,of and helping with Studies show that the ones and a husband, because over time. According to Mitchell, they have improved, and baby fought, the one with the strongest yourself aftertimes Retirement,” Iwho believed it would be a great boomers who are retiring are houselost chores that needed have awere spouse. I can’t on each other but did not “sweet” to be done fordifficult years, it imagine how
opportunity for me toget research how older adults are serious until after World War II.
Mitchell enlisted in the Navy in 1943 embracing retirement and what this “living” actually my parents spent most must be suddenly learning
youth involved in life exuded so much caseshe won.” Mitchell also added,
making their mark through acts of service. “We compromised, but Betty made intergenerational and love.
the most compromises. I amYellow still Older adults have embraced thealone factprograms that mentoring • Being is an theare
and stayed out to sea for most of that surprised that she chose me.”In pages are now extinct. They opportunity are beginning tobegin have a 46% less likely to to rely on time. He remembers a year and half Betty’s much softer voice, she said, grandchildren. Every using illegal drugs, not hearing that warm Christ. For seventeen going by before feet even there is something to 27% fight of about, Through retirement, many olderhis adults havetouched found presence on social media,“Ifare enjoying the benefits dryfound land. But each week mail isless something worth saving.” evening was with likely to begin using voice of greeting each morning. Some when older adults years I had becomethere accustomed to constant love, the time to do something they always hoped they could having a smart phone, and are well versed on texting, was delivered to hismany aircraft carrier, August 22, 2016, Betty and in-depth conversations about alcohol, and 52% less experience being alone because of their families attention and sounds ofOn seniors and associates do before having children—go back toletters college. using Siri, and Skype. Mitchell Lyle will celebrate their Betty’s unrelenting andOver her faith life, love and lots of humor. skip school, or friends may have moved. I have considered how always around me. When likely we aretoalways with that he would return home kept their love strong. seventieth wedding anniversary. Today, these 20 colleges and intothe United States have Older adults are still traveling, starting new hobbies, Myuniversities daddyit made sure that according to Independent daunting must be walk into a restaurant or dining people, we often lose sight of God’s presence. When Mitchell and Betty were finally reunited lifelong Cleveland residents live at Garden Plaza at created programs to encourage these life-long spendingWhen time with grandchildren, andapartment mentoring he shared stories, spiritual Sector (2007). after the war, they dated forlearners eight short months Cleveland Senior fear Living. Their room and know no one. you constantly displeasing people, has little before they were married. After graduating college, awards they won from serving in their vocations lessons he has learned in My parents were Loneliness is difficult to experience at any age; people become your primary focus. Proverbs to attend or graduate from college. It is not abnormal to others. Some may reinvent themselves; others may find Betty became a school teacher with Cleveland City and in their community, war-torn photographs life, and listened for hours myself that loneliness and onlyprove here for three however, I am discovering 29:25 says “Fear of man, will to be a snare, see an eighty-year-old, vibrant senior with histoback most are redesigning asisfun Schools, and Mitchell went workpack for the themselves, railroad. ofand family members, and besideretirement each recliner a to his alone grandsons expressing weeks; being are not the sameone thing. Loneliness typically buttattered whoeverand trusts in the Lord is however, kept safe”their Later he became of the members of our City worn Bible. across his shoulder meandering through the college and filled with intrinsic rewards. However, the beauty their veryanxious direct opinions. Whena they about a time, love andThey openwe dialogue with ourinchildren created includes feelings about lack disagreed of connection (NIV).When keep trusting Him, and He will Council. still laugh at each other with each cafeteria line.with of this season in life is that youdays can design itlaughter with asked what was the secret towith loving other. There also where and subject, my father laughed and diffused the tension memories that will last aare lifetime. Intergenerational others. I When will not attempt to address loneliness; fill the void of being alone, because wethe are never your each other through sixty-nine years of marriage, the talking are silent. On those days, Fox News humor, and I witnessed our boys seeking their Papa’s own relationships don’t begin with Ride-sharing services like Uber, Lyft and many personal Forhave me,tothe idea of sitting on the however, I will attempt to address being alone. alone instamp. Him.always they both stated, “Stay busy so you don’t get into anchors are the only voices heard in the apartment. advice more and more each evening. grandparents. They are formed at churches, in thestart workto • Being alone is an opportunity to meet new friends. Through my recent travels, I have discovered such other companies havetrouble!” embraced retirees as vital couch a television show Betty and Mitchell were married at First and watching Mitchell said it best, “What shefrom forgets, I can Intergenerational relationships are key to the future place, in communities and within the family unit. With It takes courage to step out of your comfort strength in Him. I am learning to walk with only one Baptist Church in 1946, and were always involved in remember. When she laughs, I am happy, and even members of their work force. Older adults have great finish is something to look forward to. their church, work, family. They though there were days she likeofme, of our zone, world, not just our country. According to the U.S.two sons. strongspeaking intergenerational interaction, our blue the she and walk across theand street and meet a had new voice into my ear, knowing Hedidn’t will print guide me. work ethic; they tendBoth to be dependable and enjoy theboys, raised by David were strong always Census Bureau,Tony by theand year 2050 the nation’s elderly past will help our loved youngme.” leaders define a clear vision for neighbor. It takes courage to stretch out your a strong, no-nonsense working mother. Betty was socialization and extra will money a part-time job and population more that than double to 88 million, their future. Esmerelda isiscampus manager Esmerelda Lee has worked in the senior loving, but she always made it clear that her sons EsmereldaLee Lee campus manager for Garden for Garden Plaza offor Cleveland, an moreadults frail, over-85 to 19they would affords. Somethe older have actually will used their Plaza of Cleveland, anover independent and assisted living industry sixteen years. would love population education likequadruple she did, and independent and assisted facility living facilityas for seniors.living She operations and her husband She works a divisional for seniors. She and her husband Andrew have three children. 28 // August 34 // 2017 34 2017 // June July specialist forthree Enlivant Andrew have children.Senior Living. 342017 // March 2016
looks like from theirtime perspective. of sleep their with their to by yourself and
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
Train up a Child
“My son, do not take the Lord’s discipline lightly or faint when you are reproved by Him, for the Lord disciplines the one He loves and punishes every son He receives.” —Hebrews 12:5-6 by Bernadine Barber
C
hildren are a blessing, a reward, a heritage
hardened and become set in their ways, they will not be
from the Lord! (see Psa. 127:3-5). It’s true. But
so willing to adjust.
it still remains that folly (or foolishness) is
As parents, we have this awe-inspiring, highly
bound up in a child’s heart (Prov. 22:15). However, the
valuable, most-important responsibility/privilege to
rod of discipline will drive it far away from him (Prov.
mold a fresh new batch of clay. We must train them
22:15). Now it must be stated that abuse and neglect is
up in the way they should go (Prov. 22:6)−not the
ungodly. That is another story. However, discipline and
world, not the devil, not the teachers in school, not the
correction are commanded
children’s pastors, not
by the Lord.
their peers, the media,
Why? Because if this
celebrities, and not even
inward, natural foolishness
their grandparents or
bound up in a child’s heart
other relatives. God
is not driven away from
commands parents to
him through love-driven
train up their children
discipline, then it will
in the ways of the Lord.
plant itself firmly within
And this comes with a
a child’s heart. Then it
promise: “. . . and when
will germinate (grow and
he is old, he will not
spring up), multiply, and
depart from it” (Prov.
spread, causing heartache
22:6 NKJV).
and chaos for himself and
Discipline is covered
for those who are affected
under the umbrella of the
by him.
command to train them
Discipline is required
up. It’s not an option. It’s
in parenting. Otherwise, it could hardly be called
not a choice; it is a command. It won’t always be cute.
parenting at all! If I were to do all the things I do as a
It won’t always be easy. It won’t always feel good to
mother, but simply extracted discipline, then perhaps
them. Heck, it won’t always feel good to us! But if we
I would be a mere friend to them. Maybe they will
are to truly love our blessings from the living God, then
feel equal to me and think that I’m the most fun
we must discipline them. For that is what our heavenly
human being! But then that “friendship” and “fun”
Father does for us. Not in spite of His love, but because
will soon be spoiled by disrespect, manipulation,
of His love.
rebellion, and the disintegration of their character that will speedily follow. Children are like clay. When they are young, they are more easily apt to being molded. Once they have
30 // August 2017
Bernadine Barber is a wife, mother, writer, speaker, spoken word poet/performer, and co-youth pastor. She and her husband, Lawson, have been married for almost six years and have two children: a four year old daughter and a three year old son. Bernadine has worked in childhood development centers/daycares and has an associates degree in early childhood education. Her passion is to speak the truth in love, preach the Gospel, make disciples and teach the Bible. Her spoken word poems, booking information, and more can be found at www.BernadineBarber.com.
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Gò0dNews for Couples
In the Beginning
G
Read Genesis 2:15-23. by Theodore Young
od created the man to reflect His image on the
When I got married almost twenty years ago, it was
earth. He gave him an assignment in the Garden.
among friends and family in a church. We prayed, took
However, He looked at man and decided that it
communion together, said our vows, and kissed. We were
was not good for him to be alone. God was with him but
married. However, I overlooked that those vows were to a
yet still alone. Instead of returning back to the soil, God
covenant relationship with God−a God that was committed
placed man into a deep sleep. God, in His infinite wisdom
never to leave us alone and is always a present help in a
removed a rib from the man’s side and formed the
time of need. It was not me and my wife against the world.
woman. God with His all-knowing wisdom and power
The presence of the Lord would be dwelling with us in our
created a bond that will fulfill His God-given destiny, to
covenant relationship.
be entrusted to manage this world as an ambassador of God and multiply. Adam did not have the ability to fulfill God’s purpose
Our God wanted us to consider Him in our relationship of three. We need Him to direct us as husbands and wives to serve each other and to serve Him.
without the woman. God created him to be without the
He seeks to direct the man and woman toward a divine
woman in order for man to appreciate the impressive
destiny that will bless others.
ability of God to provide for all of his needs. God, the
Our God wants me and my wife to walk with Him. He
Creator of all things seen and unseen, said, “I will create
wants to be acknowledged during any and all moments
a helper suitable for man.” This word helper has a divine
of the marriage. So often I have left Him out in the past or
meaning to it. It is a Hebrew word that refers to God
just ignored His guidance. However, He has poured out
numerous times throughout the Bible. However, the most
immeasurable grace to see the error in my ways. I now
important thing to keep in mind was that God brought
understand that part of me reflecting His image is pouring
this covenant relationship into motion. They were not
out grace to my wife. I practice imitating God at home,
alone, but they had a relationship with God and were
and it becomes easier for me to imitate Him in the world.
guided by God.
My marriage has completed me in ways that I could never
In Christian marriages today in the United States, Christian marriages end in divorce at about the same rate
describe. I understand that when I look at my marriage, I see three−God, my wife, and me.
that secular (non-Christian) marriages end. How is that? We have good biblical godly principals from the Bible; yet, our marriages (for the lack of a better term), perform at the same level as secular marriages.
32 // August 2017
Theodore Young was born and lived in Bronx, NY, for 42 years. He has been married 19 years and is the father of two teenage daughters. He accepted Christ in his life 31 years ago. He works as a licensed social worker in the state of Tennessee for the last 8 years.
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Gò0dNews for Health & Fitness
Stress—Friend or Foe?
Just as God has been faithful to create our bodies with a natural response system to meet and conquer physical challenges; likewise, we can rest assured that God is faithful to provide supernatural means with which to meet and conquer temptation. by Evan Tyler Fox
W
hen was the last time you found yourself
Thankfully, we lived to tell the tale. But I wonder if we
appreciating the stress in your life? If you’re
would have been able to outrun those two dogs without
anything like the rest of us, not anytime
experiencing stress?
recently, if ever. Truth be told: if we could anticipate
You see, when the body recognizes a stressor
stressful situations, most of us avoid them. After all,
(something that initiates stress) you experience a
stress is uncomfortable. Your heart pounds, your blood
physiological response (stress reaction) called “fight or
pressure rises, your breathing becomes more rapid. Like
flight” mode. Your peripheral blood vessels constrict, and
I said, stress is uncomfortable, and for that very reason
your heart rate and blood pressure rise, all in order to
we often view stress in a negative light. But what if stress
supply your essential organs and tissues with abundant
is actually a good thing? What if, instead of stress being your enemy, it is actually your friend? As we continue, let’s be clear. Welldocumented are the damaging effects of prolonged periods of stress. Our bodies just weren’t designed to handle ceaseless periods of stress. Not only does this tend to worsen most existing health issues, but this
amounts of nutrient, hormone-rich blood. Your respiration quickens, supplying your brain and muscles with plenty of oxygen so that you can think and act with clarity and strength. Also, the adrenal glands release surplus glucose providing you with ample energy to take care of business. All of these physiological stress responses take place for one purpose only−to help
also tends to create new health
you conquer the challenge in front
issues for individuals. But let’s
of you. In my case, stress made
remember the keys word here− prolonged and ceaseless. Now let me share how short-term stress can
the difference between ending the day hanging out at my friend’s house or hanging out in the hospital.
be a good thing. As a teenager, a friend and I went exploring the backwoods of his family’s property. We were curiously hiking along when all of a sudden we topped a hill and locked eyes with two stray dogs. Immediately, they began barking and then jetted our way. In that moment, we only had one option−run!
34 // August 2017
Romans 8:37 provides the glad reminder that “we are more than conquerors through Him that loved us.” No matter the stressor, whether physical or spiritual, you are promised the victory through Christ who has loved you. Evan Tyler Fox, originally from Greeneville, TN, is the health promotions liaison for Health Made Simple, a Christian health club serving Chattanooga. For more information about how Health Made Simple can serve you, visit: health-madesimple.com.
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Can’t make it to the event? View a short film, ask questions hear from current foster parents. Chambliss Center for and Children Give us a call, we’ll be happy to talk Growing Young Lives 24 7 365 to you one-on-one. ChamblissCenter.org
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
WHAT RESOLUTIONS?
R
Only 14 percent of people fulfill their New Year’s Resolutions within a year. by Pam Turner
emember back in January 2017. Everyone was caught
reminds us to “Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his
up in a whirlwind of well-intentioned resolutions
righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto
with promises of sweeping change. Can you recall
you” (KJV). Amazingly, spending my time with Him, helps
those nearly impossible ideas such as fruit-and-water-only
the others fall into place. Solomon 4.7 reminds me that
diets, or waking up at 5 a.m. to run 6 miles before work?
God made me altogether beautiful, my darling there is no
Investments to make the resolution stick this time include
flaw. First Thessalonians 5:18 tells me to “give thanks in all
buying gym memberships, custom-fit running shoes,
circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for
download the smartphone app, and posting on your goal of
you” (ESV). I know that my Savior wants me to pursue my
30 pounds in 30 days on Facebook.
dreams. He tells me “I can do all this through him who gives
It is nine months later, and most have decided that they
me strength” (Phil. 4:13 NIV). “Take delight in the Lord, and
will just wait until next year to start over. The truth is only
he will give you the desires of your heart" (Ps. 37:4 NIV).
14 percent of people fulfill their New Year’s Resolutions
God is not pleased when His people settle for mediocrity.
within a year. Most admit that they do not get past the first
Colossians 3:23-24 reminds us “Whatever you do, work
30 days. Even more discouraging, since I am in my fifties, is
heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from
the statistic that only 14 percent of people over fifty achieve
the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward.
their resolution compared to 39 percent of people in their
You are serving the Lord Christ” (ESVUK).
twenties.
So yes, with the help of my heavenly Father, I have
Guess what? I have held fast to my resolutions. No, I
abided by them. They are posted everywhere−my office,
did not lose 30 pounds in 30 days, but I managed to make
my bathroom, and on the refrigerator. That is biblical as
long, lasting changes this year. I followed a set of rules by
well. Habakkuk 2.2 says “Write the vision; make it plain on
posted Tony Gaskin Jr., a motivational speaker. He wrote
tablets” (ESVUK).
them, but yet I am so sure that they were for me. My rules for 2017 are:
So a few word of advice to those that are waiting for January 2018 to make some change. My Abba Father has
Please God
provided an answer for that as well: “If you wait for perfect
Love Me More
conditions, you will never get anything done” (Eccl. 1:4 LB).
Choose Happiness Pursue My Dreams Relentlessly Never Settle for Mediocrity. I could say that has been easy; I just get up daily, and they all fall into place. The truth is my morning starts with the first resolution seeking to please God. Matthew 6:33
36 // August 2017
Pam Turner is the CEO of pamturner ministries. She is a motivational speaker for hurting women, she is an anointed minister, and a licensed clinical social worker. She has over 20 years of practice helping those who have experienced pain. Her professional credits include a bachelors and a masters degree in social work. A social worker, college professor and a minister, she has helped many people walk out the plan God has for their lives. Her expertise in counseling, treating drug addicts, abused women and children, restoring broken marriages and treating people with mental health issue, has allowed her to witness the healing power of God.
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Gò0dNews for Women’s Health
What can Happen if I don’t get my Varicose veins treated?
V
by Dr. James White
aricose veins range in severity from small tread-like spider veins
Compression with graduated support hosiery is important forms
to large ropy veins ... cosmetic to medically significant. There
of therapy for leaky veins. Fortunately, SVT is usually a benign and
are several adverse consequences of untreated varicose veins,
short-term condition. Symptoms generally improve in one to two
and their severity will vary from person to person depending on the
weeks although the firmness of the vein may persist longer. Deep vein
circumstances. Many people who don't treat their varicose veins may
thrombosis (DVT), unlike SVT, can be associated with significant and
experience continued symptoms of pain, fatigue and swelling of the legs
serious medical problems. DVT is often first noticed as a “pulling”
or ankles. Some varicose veins present without symptoms and just look
sensation in the calf of the lower leg, and it can be quite painful.
bad. More advanced medical problems may include hyperpigmentation
Symptoms also include associated warmth, redness and swelling. The
[stains], lipodermatosclerosis[plastic changes of the skin], venous
swelling often extends to above the knee. Some patients are at higher
leg ulcers, spontaneous bleeding, superficial thrombophlebitis, and
risk for developing DVT. These include:
a potentially life-threatening condition called deep vein thrombosis
• Over 60 years of age
[DVT]. The varicose veins themselves are not responsible for the major
• Recent surgery
damages to the body, pooling of the blood is the major problem. Blood
• History of prior DVT
that pools in the varicose veins is depleted of oxygen and nutrients. The
• Prolonged immobility/paralysis
veins also do not tolerate high pressure well and begin to allow red blood
• Malignancy
cells and fluid to leak into the tissues of the leg. This fluid leak causes
• Blood Clotting Disorders
ankle and calf swelling. The red blood cells in the tissues cause chronic
• Obesity
inflammation and the skin becomes dark and discolored-iron stains. The
• Pregnancy and Postpartum
medical term for the dark discoloration is hyperpigmentation.
• Infection
When the skin and the fat under the skin are inflamed for years,
When a diagnosis of DVT is made, anticoagulant treatments are
the tissues become woody and firm. The medical term for this woody,
often started. Anti-coagulation prevents progression of the blood clot,
hard tissue is lipodermatosclerosis. A condition that may occur over
breaks up the clot and prevents the clot from traveling to the lungs. If a
time, when there is chronic venous insufficiency, is a venous leg ulcer.
clot travels to the lungs it is called a “pulmonary embolus.
Hemoglobin driven into the skin under pressure causes inflammation to
Treatment of venous stasis and varicose veins is designed to
the point that the skin becomes thin. This break down causes weeping
destroy the faulty veins causing the blood to be routed through more
ulcers. The ulcers due to varicose veins are painful and difficult to heal.
normal vein pathways back to the heart. Treatment can be completed
Sometimes the ulcers cannot be healed until the backward blood flow in
by the combined therapy with lasers, radiofrequency, sclerotherapy
the veins is corrected with reduction in venous pressure.
and mini surgical stripping [phlebectomies]. The range of severity
Another possible consequence of untreated varicose veins is
of varicose veins is considered when a therapy plan is completed.
spontaneous bleeding from the varicose veins. As the skin over the
Prevention and early management is important to avoid more serious
veins becomes thin, eventually the vein can be exposed to the outside
complications associated with varicose veins. Should I have my veins
world and be easily injured by leg shaving, clothing, bedding, etc. The
treated? Treatment plans depend on the severity of your veins and
blood loss can be significant.
evidence of chronic venous pressure.
Superficial venous thrombophlebitis (SVT) involves inflammation of a vein just below the surface of the skin. The cause of inflammation is not an infection. Rather,inflammation is due to decreased blood flow through the vein, damage to the vein and blood clotting. The features of SVT include redness to the skin and a firm, tender, warm vein. Localized leg pain and swelling may occur as well. Treatment of SVT is directed toward reducing the inflammation.
38 // August 2017
Dr. James E. White is a board-certified General Surgeon by the American Board of Surgery and is a Fellow of the prestigious American College of Surgeons. His office, Advanced Surgical Concepts (ASC) is located at 2290 Ogletree Ave, Suite 112 in the Hamilton Office Park across from the Hamilton YMCA. ASC offers a variety of cosmetic procedures including varicose vein procedures, laser skin resurfacing, facial fillers, minimal invasive surgery and liposculpture. 423-648- 4011 or visit www. advsurgical.com for a complimentary consultation.
Gò0dNews for Everyone
An Answered Prayer
I
God asks us to pray about everything and worry about nothing. by Terri Whiteside
was preparing for another trip to Haiti in April
petition with Thanksgiving, let your request be made
2017. I wanted to take something over for the girls,
known to God” (HCSB).
but I wasn’t sure what. I was talking with some
No matter where we are in the world, the one thing
coworkers, and they started talking about someone
that is the same everywhere is prayer. With God being
who buys items in bulk on sale (Barbie dolls). I stated
omnipresent, He hears all our prayers. He asks us to
I would like to take some dolls to Haiti and I bought
pray about everything and worry about nothing. I had
ten Barbie dolls. My friend surprisingly bought five
no idea those dolls were the answer to a prayer, but
more for me to take, so I took an extra suitcase full of
God did. He knows what we need and the timing of
Barbie dolls and boys’ sneakers.
when we need it. This is what makes Him God; He is all
We arrived in
knowing. Sometimes
Haiti on April 25
we miss God in the
and was going to be
little things because
there until the next
we are expecting
Tuesday. Later that
that when He does
day I saw some little
something, it's always
girls playing around
going to be big.
at the church, so I
If you ever stop
decided to hand out
and listen to your
some of the dolls.
children pray, it can
Once the word
be funny but they are
got out, little girls
so honest and they
started coming from
just tell God what
everywhere, and I
they want Him to
ended up handing
know. He wants us
out all the dolls my first day there. When I handed out
all to be like little children. He wants us to pray with an
the dolls, the smiles on their face were indescribable.
honest and pure heart without all the fancy words.
Unfortunately, I did not have nearly enough for
Sometimes our prayers aren't answered right away,
everyone. Later, some of the little girls were asking,
but we must be persistent and not give up. We have to
“Mwen poupe,” which means “Me Doll.” They were
sit in His presence and pour our hearts out to Him. He
asking did I have a doll for them.
loves us and the Holy Spirit speaks on our behalf when
Later that week while talking to Pastor Marcel, he told us the girls had come to him a while back asking
we don't have the right words to say. We are praying that God will open up a door for
if he had anything for them. He said “No, I don’t,
more dolls to be taken to Haiti. Prayer does change
but let’s pray about that.” It was truly an answered
things and it can change lives.
prayer. God had orchestrated the whole idea of taking the dolls. In Philippians 4:6, it says, “Don’t worry about anything, but in everything, through prayer and
40 // August 2017
Terri Whiteside attends Hamilton Life Church where she is the Nursery Coordinator. She has been married for 20 years to Chris Whiteside. They have six adult children. She is the Secretary for HopeforHaiti (Hopeforhaiti.ws) a non-profit organization. She along with her husband, lead teams to Haiti every year.
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
Back to School
Tips to help you get started reading the Bible as a kid and learning God’s truth for life. by Kayla Stevens
H
eading back to school brings so much joy and
Reading the Bible is something you can do as a kid.
anticipation. Fun school supplies, new clothes
You can start small and you can start early. Here are
and shoes, and even new school orientation
a few tips that can help you get started (the Bible is a
are just a few necessities to help prepare you for a successful school year. Why is it that even if you don’t like school very
super big book)! ● Search it Out Search out one chapter of the Bible (I would start
much, the beginning of school is always so exciting?
with the Gospel of John, chapter 1 and then move
Even though you’re going to settle into routines
on to John 2).
of homework and projects, the beginning
● Read it Out
of school always brings potential. There
Read between 5-7 verses of that chapter every
are new things to learn and new friends to
morning or every night (If you read 7 verses
meet. You are going to grow and learn more
of John 1 every night, you’ll finish the whole
and get older. You may get to have more privileges and responsibilities too. It won’t happen overnight. It takes time and persistence and not giving up to grow and learn and mature, but it is worth it! The same thing happens with
chapter in just one week!) ● Write it Out Grab a notebook and write out a few things you learn about those few verses. Spend a few minutes writing out what you learn. Does it say anything about God? Are
our relationship with God. The more
there any words repeated a lot? Is there
time we spend with Him, the more
something you don’t understand or
we grow to be like Him. Reading
that doesn’t make sense?
and learning about the Bible and doing
You’ll be amazed to watch what
what it says is hard work! It takes time
God teaches you as you begin to grow in
and persistence, and sometimes requires
reading and studying His Word! Learning
a little help from Mom or Dad, but it is
about God’s truth for your life is so
worth it!
rewarding and it's yours for the taking!
It would be silly to wait until you are a teenager to learn your ABC’s. That is something you learn when you are
There is so much potential just waiting for you to discover! “Therefore, as you received Christ
very young, so you can grow and learn
Jesus the Lord, so walk in him, rooted
how to read words and sentences and
and built up in him and established in the
eventually chapter books! You don’t want
faith, just as you were taught, abounding
to wait until you are thirteen to learn your
in thanksgiving” (Col. 2:6-7 ESV).
alphabet, right? Neither should we want to postpone learning about God.
42 // August 2017
Kayla Stevens is the preschool and kids minister at Ridgedale Baptist Church in Chattanooga, TN. She has a BA from William Carey University and an MDiv from Southeastern Seminary. She enjoys reading, running, and cheering for Ole Miss football.
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