Gò0dNews November 2015
Complimentary
Christian Magazine
CHATTANOOGA
• Blessed with Diversity p. 6 • Go Ahead and Quit! p. 20 • ARISE Testimony p. 22
DR. RON & PAULETTE PHILLIPS
Don’t miss the fun! Friday, November 13, 2015
at the chattanoogan – 6:30 pm to Midnight This year, Hospice of Chattanooga’s Holiday Hearts is putting on a black tie to celebrate after dark!
Featuring
The Downtown Band
nashville’s acclaimed showband
While the Meaning and Mission remain the same, this party will be packed with fun, including a live auction of exciting experiences: Soaring in an antique P-51 Mustang war plane, Arkansas duck hunting, your private Brewhaus party, a Ritz Carlton Atlanta package … and more!
Hospice of cHattanooga’s
3-COURSE 3-course DINNER dinner with wine
after Dark
BLACK TIE AFFAIR open bar
COMPLIMENTARY Black tie attire VALET PARKING complimentary valet parking
Tickets–
please call The Hospice of Chattanooga Foundation at 423-892-8309. You may also reserve a table for eight or purchase individual tickets online at www.holidayhearts.org.
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About Us Writers
Reverend Karyn Bogert Alicia Klepper Andrew Lee Ashley Smith Dave Carringer Deven Wallace Gracie Hixson Karen Brummer Mindy White Nick Poole Rob England Thomas Morrison
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 three beautiful children, Brendon, Kailey, and Andrew. 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
T
his month’s issue is a harvest of articles about thankfulness, gratitude, contentment, frustration, blessings of preschoolers, keeping finances separate, depression, and eating pecan pie. My addition to the mix is an experience I had years ago in overcoming fear. Years ago I learned that one of the greatest roadblocks to courage is fear. Along with fear comes a kind of paralysis that makes us think we have to wait until the fear is gone before we do whatever we need to do. This was demonstrated in an experience I had in Omaha, Nebraska, when my son was stationed at Offutt Air Force Base. The lights in the cockpit flashed. The pilot—calm, cool and collected— read instruments, adjusted gadgets, preparing for takeoff. Strapping into the copilot’s seat, I wondered, Is this really happening? Am I the copilot? Am I courageous enough to fly this plane? The goose bumps assured me I was not dreaming. Flying this gigantic computer with wings registered exceptionally high on the experience-of-a-lifetime scale. “Now, I’m going to lead you through the takeoff, step-by-step,” the young, confident pilot instructed. “But you are going to bring us in for the landing all by yourself,” he continued, showing me the sensitive steering mechanism. Me? Land this plane? With my colorful history of minor car accidents? “Okay, if you won’t let me make any mistakes,” I muttered. The engines revved up and off we zoomed down the runway, cruising about 200 miles per hour . . . or so it seemed. Actually, this flight took place in a simulator at Offutt Air Force Base when my son was stationed there. I could not believe the realism. Every sensation—sight, sound, movement (and fear) was just like sitting in the cockpit of a modified 757. My big question was, “Can I crash this plane?” “Of course, but I’m not going to let you crash. I will correct any errors you make, so just sit back and relax.” Relax? I was not capable of relaxing, but I learned two important lessons during my flight that are applicable to life’s situations: To stay on course, I must listen intently to my “Pilot”; stay focused on the flight plan (God’s Word), which leads me straight to the heart of God. There I can trade my craving for understanding for a big dose of courage and a willingness to trust His wisdom. 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.
November 2015
Gò0dNews Christian Magazine
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About Us GoodNews from the Pastor’s Desk Blessed with Diversity by Reverend Karyn Bogert GoodNews for Kids Wandering with Jesus by Nick Poole GoodNews on Money Matters Together but Separate—A Recipe for Dysfunction by Andrew Lee GoodNews for Men This Thanksgiving, Let’s Invite Contentment Over by Rob England GoodNews for Women Thanksgiving by Deven Wallace GoodNews for Parents Go Ahead and Quit! by Alicia Klepper GoodNews for Everyone ARISE Testimony GoodNews for Health & Fitness The Basic Tool for Success in Fitness . . . and Life! by Thomas Morrison GoodNews for Teens You Are Enough by Ashley Smith GoodNews for Seniors All About Gratitude by Karen Brummer GoodNews for Everyone Trauma in the Labor Room by Gracie Hixson GoodNews for Couples Being Unified—Jesus at the Center by Mindy White GoodNews for Service THE KINGDOM COMES . . .THROUGH YOU! by Dave Carringer
DR. RON & PAULETTE PHILLIPS
Pg 18-19
Pg 16-17
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.
Gò0dNews from the Pastor’s Desk
O
Blessed with Diversity by Karyn Bogert
ne of my favorite childhood songs has a special place in my heart. This simple song informed and encouraged my understanding of how we are to treat others in light of our identity in Christ. You might remember this children’s song as well. Won’t you sing it with me? “Jesus loves the little children, All the children of the world. Red and yellow, black and white, They’re all precious in His sight,
challenged by the diversity of other cultures, other faiths, and other beliefs. I find this challenge of diversity a welcomed opportunity for us to examine our faith and find fresh ways to experience God’s presence in our lives. While the essentials (that is, Christ’s message) will never change, the nonessentials (the ways we experience God) will grow as we journey in faith together. No two individuals are completely the same. Even identical twins don’t share the same thoughts and beliefs all of the time. Our uniqueness is a blessing
Jesus loves the little children of the world.” There is so much wisdom in those words, because many of us struggle to feel comfortable with much less love—people who are culturally and ethnically different from us. However, that is exactly what Christ compels us to do. Our lifelong journey with God often asks us to get out of our comfort zone and do things that we could never do alone. Learning to love one another in spite of our differences teaches us to love our enemies. However, if we can’t love a fellow believer, even one who thinks differently and disagrees with us, then how in the world are we going to go that extra step and love an enemy? Today, thanks to an explosion of information available on the World Wide Web, Christians are being
from our Creator. Why then, do we want others to be just like us? How boring would that be? Perhaps we have forgotten that we were created in God’s image, and not the other way around. Jesus spent time with all kinds of people. He invited people from many different backgrounds to be His followers. Jesus welcomed those who were considered unclean, unworthy, and unlovable to be children of God. Can we do any less? The next time you find yourself silently judging someone for being different than you, remember . . . Jesus loves every person, every person in the world. Red and yellow, black and white, all are precious in His sight. Jesus loves every person in the world.
6 // November 2015
Reverend Karyn Bogert is an ordained minister, a wife to a compassionate nurse, Neal, and has been blessed to serve as pastor of First Christian Church of Cleveland for eight years.
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Gò0dNews for Kids
Wandering with Jesus
P
A Story of Thanksgiving Based on Luke 17:11-19 by Nick Poole
arents and children, let’s go on
bad may happen to them. In a panic,
down to your level, looking you in the
an adventure and explore God’s
you jump down from the tree and rush
eye, he whispers, “I can go home to my
Word a little differently than
to the forbidden village. With the wind
family, my friends, my own home. I
before by using our imagination to see a
rustling through your hair, dust rising
haven’t seen them in a very long time.
world long since passed.
up from behind you, you run with your
Jesus Christ healed me and my friends
heart racing.
of a terrible disease, and now we can go
Close your eyes. Small rocks and warm dirt press against your feet, sun
You arrive at the edge of the village.
home! He loves us, and gave us our lives
shining overhead as you and your
Someone is coming; you must hide now!
back.” Can you imagine meeting Jesus
friends play around one of the trees
After sneaking around the edge of the
and looking into His eyes after being
outside your village. You are quite the
village, you see two small groups of
given the ability to return home?
climber. Placing one foot in front of
men. One group is running back toward
the other, one hand on a branch above
Jerusalem, jumping and shouting, not
come together with our families, let us
the other, you made it to the top of the
looking back to the village. They seem
remember the One who provides for
tree and are overlooking the valley. To
so happy! Looking back into the village,
us, gives us more than we understand,
your left, you see the farmer working
there was one man kneeling, crying at
and continues to love us regardless of
in his field under the hot sun. To your
the feet of one man. In the other group,
what we go through. Jesus cares about
right, you see a small village where your
a man is thanking him and kissing His
us, our lives, how we do in school, our
parents have told you repeatedly to stay
feet! Tears are falling down his face as he
families, and so much more! Jesus loved
away from—the forbidden village.
looks up into the other man’s eyes—His
us so much that He lived a perfect life on
All of sudden, you see a small
kind, loving eyes. With one last hug, the
earth, proved how much He cared about
group of men off in the distance heading
dusty, tear-stained man starts walking
our everyday lives through His actions,
in your direction. They stop at the small
in your direction and observes you
and then conquered death so we could
village first, but they are not allowed in
hiding. He smiles gently and notices the
live with Him forever. In this season of
that village! No one is permitted expect
confused look on your face. Bending
Thanksgiving, let us remember to give
As we approach Thanksgiving and
for those who live there! Oh no! If they
thanks to the One who gave everything
are caught in that village, something
for us.
8 // November 2015
Nick Poole is the children's pastor at The Church at Grace Point in Cleveland. He has a bachelor’s degree in Youth Ministry, and is currently working toward his masters in youth and family ministry at Lee University.
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Gò0dNews on Money Matters Together but Separate—A Recipe for Dysfunction The pros and cons of separate accounts versus joint accounts in marriage.
O
by Andrew Lee ne of the most quotable
Married couples who have separate
If both spouses have careers and
lines from John Milton’s
accounts tell me that having separate
paychecks, then budgeting, saving,
1667 epic poem Paradise
accounts ensure that each partner knows
and spending jointly on shared goals
Lost is the phrase, “Confusion worse
precisely how much is in his or her
is a quicker and more powerful
confounded.” This might be an
account at all times, without having to
approach to meeting financial goals
apt description for many married
check with a spouse daily or weekly
as a couple. Most importantly, a joint
couples who try to keep their finances
in order to update debits, checks, or
account practically guarantees that a
separated.
deposits from a joint account. These
couple is in constant communication
couples also say they have established
about finances. After all, when one
challenge of getting a spouse to agree
an equitable system for bill paying,
spouse writes a check, swipes a debit,
to set a household budget and to
usually meaning that each spouse will
or withdraws money from the ATM,
work together toward achieving their
pay certain bills or a certain percentage
the other spouse is bound to find
financial goals of paying down debt
of the monthly bills from his or her
out, assuming both spouses regularly
and saving more money. This person
checking account. Often, I am told how
check the monthly bank statements
explained how they kept separate
preferable it is to keep separate accounts
(whether in paper form or online).
bank accounts for both checking and
so that “I don’t have to check with
Couples that communicate and agree
savings. When bills were due, they
anybody or ask permission if I want
about saving, spending, and giving
allocated who would pay what bills
to buy something.” True enough, but
their money tend to have a more
out of his or her own individual
this attitude, in my opinion, may end
fulfilling marriage overall.
checking account. Many couples insist
up creating many more financial and
that this method works for them, but
marital problems than it claims to solve.
recommended even if only one spouse
Separate accounts encourage
works outside the home, because both
Recently, someone described the
I am curious to know how they are
Finally, joint accounts are
defining the phrase, “works for them.”
secrecy in marriage, with neither
spouses have open communication
I suspect this means that bills get paid
spouse knowing what the other is
about financial matters and feel like
on time, but at what emotional and
spending. Maybe the bills do get paid
equal partners in the marriage. A
psychological cost to the marriage?
on time using this system, but if one
stay-at-home spouse should never be
Let’s look at the pros and cons of
is determined to live life like a single
made to feel like a second-class citizen
separate accounts versus joint accounts in marriage.
person, then why get married
or like a subordinate to the working
in the first place? The
spouse. Communication is the key, and
power of two working
shared financial accounts help to foster
together is stronger
this communication. Many failing
than the power of one,
marriages began their decline like
and that is certainly
that famous line from the classic film
true of finances.
Cool Hand Luke: “What we have here is failure to communicate.”
10 // November 2015
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.
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Gò0dNews for Men This Thanksgiving, Let’s Invite Contentment Over by Rob England Now godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and clothing, with these we shall be content. —1 Timothy 6:6-8 (NKJV)
I
’m writing this from a position of active learning, rather than from a position of expertise. A principle that I’m still learning is contentment. This is a good time, as we approach the Thanksgiving season, to ponder not just our level of thankfulness, but also contentment. Not long ago I asked a friend, who is living in the U.S. after spending years overseas in the mission field, which location and way of life she preferred most. She said that God provides the contentment and peace needed for each place that she finds herself. Her answer might have you wondering if, as Christians, we are all called to strive for this level of contentment. I believe we are. Paul had a thing or two to say about contentment in the Bible. He’s a great example of someone who knew what it meant to be content, even in the worst of circumstances (including his time in jail). Paul shares his experience with contentment in Philippians 4:11-13, where he says: “Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content: I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Paul had learned to be content . . . no matter what. And the key to doing so is shared in verse 13: It’s through Christ’s strength. Contentment is not necessarily having the things we want or being in the situation we’ve always desired. Contentment can, and should, be found wherever we are. Whatever circumstances we are currently
12 // November 2015
in, there is room for contentment. Contentment is not circumstance-dependent. It’s Godly-attitude-dependent and it requires the following: 1. The realization of who we are, compared to who He is. 2. The understanding that we deserve nothing (except hell) yet, despite this, He gave everything. He gave us physical life, all of the countless blessings we each have, and, most importantly, He’s provided for us eternal life, love, friendship, and fellowship with Him, all made possible through the giving of His only Son as a perfect sacrifice for our sins. 3. Faith that God knows fully well what our current situation is, what our needs are, and how much we can handle (in His strength). It requires the acknowledgment that He’s “got this.” Let your conduct be without covetousness; be content with such things as you have. For He Himself has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you”(Heb. 13:5 NKJV). This Thanksgiving, let’s put some thought into our current state of contentment, as well as thankfulness. The two go hand in hand, with each leading to the other. By actively being thankful for what God has blessed us with, we can be more content. And, conversely, by being content in Him, we can be more thankful.
Rob England is a resident of Cleveland and works as a senior technical support rep at Thomson Reuters. He volunteers with the Civil Air Patrol and is a member of First Baptist Cleveland. You can contact him at englandr1@yahoo.com or at Facebook.com/RobEngland.
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People need certain things to thrive. We need to eat well, stay safe, be active, spend time together, learn and grow. Sadly, in an increasingly technological and polarized world, it’s not always easy to get what we need. Playing outside has become a rarity. Face time happens through a phone. And instead of seeing the income gap shrink, it seems all we do is watch it grow. But where society falls short, the Y steps in. Because, after 160 years of serving communities, the Y knows what we need to be our best selves. So, it gives us a place to play, to learn, to be healthy, to eat well and give back. It gives parents child care, young adults job training and children a safe place to go. Everything the Y does is in service of making us better. Youth Development All kids deserve the opportunity to discover who they are and what they can achieve, under the guidance of caring adults who believe in their potential. Healthy Living We help people and families build and maintain healthy habits for spirit, mind and body in their everyday lives. Social Responsibility With our doors open to all, we bring together people from all backgrounds, and support those who need us most. We take on the most urgent needs in our community and inspire a spirit of service in return. For a better you. For a better community. For a better country. For a better us.
Gò0dNews for Women
Thanksgiving
H
An opportune time to build a culture of thanksgiving in our families and an atmosphere of gratitude in our communities. by Deven Wallace
arvest time is a reminder of God’s faithful provision and the reward of process. It is easy to be thankful for the pumpkins on the vine while eating your grandma’s pumpkin pie, or the potatoes in the ground as you eat your second helping of buttery mashed goodness. However, can we be thankful in the midst of the process? Can we be thankful for mashed potatoes as we dig up the ground to harvest the potatoes? Can we thank God for the hot corn on the cob while we are shucking the husks and picking out the bugs? It is easy to be thankful for the sweet result of a long process, but so many times we find ourselves complaining about the very circumstances necessary to reach our desired goal. In this season of gratitude, may we gain mature faith that embraces the painful processes life sometimes bring to produce the character, anointing, and potential in our lives. God sometimes applies pressure and heat in life in order to surface the faith that is refined as gold in our spirits. Remember, the costly diamond begins as a lump of coal and the pearls begin as an irritant in a slimy shell. Never see a seed for the little piece of mass that it is, but as the grove of fruit or flowers it can be. Never look at your current circumstances and trials with the discouraging perspective the Enemy would deceive you with. That is exactly how it got Eve to sin in the first place. He convinced her to underestimate the potential behind one little bite. Let God mold your perspective to see the potential behind each circumstance working together for your good. Therefore, all things are worthy of thanksgiving. Paul said not to be anxious but thankful always. In a moment of temporary insanity, I chose to labor naturally for our youngest child. This seemed like a cool option until the process became unbearable. In that moment, Kevin says my voice sounded like Darth Vader and my words were less than holy. My mind could not focus on the
14 // November 2015
fact that the increasing pain was a sign that the unspeakable joy was moments away. All I could think of was my misery and that I would not survive to breath my next breath. I despised this part of the process. The pain was not what I had signed up for but was necessary for the result I had desired. In that moment, God spoke something to me through my husband. He said, “Deven, let praise come forth.” “Now?” I asked God out loud. “Seriously? Where is Your pity for me and Your soothing concern. You want me to praise You right now in the midst of this unbearable pain?” His silence was my confirmation of His expectation. Out loud in a labor and delivery room, I managed to force out, “Thank You, Father. I praise Your name, Jesus. I praise You with everything I have left!” In that moment of thanksgiving, my labor shifted. My season changed, and I was holding my baby girl within 10 to 15 minutes. We appropriately named her Judah, which means “praise.” That moment I realized true praise and thanksgiving is not our response at the end of the process, but what we choose in the middle of the most painful and trying part. That is the sacrifice of praise that gets the Father’s attention. That type of thanksgiving that will shift seasons and circumstances in our lives. It’s there where God says, “Process complete.” Thanksgiving accelerates the promises of God and keeps our heart guarded from the downward spiral of an unthankful spirit (read Romans 1). I pray that a flood of thanksgiving will pour from you and that a divine shift will occur over your life. I declare your declarations of gratitude will testify to the Enemy that there are some of us who cannot burn, cannot drown, and whose praise cannot be silenced! Pastor Deven and her husband Bishop Kevin Wallace, co-pastor Redemption Point Church (RPC) based in Ooltewah, Tennessee. Under their leadership, RPC has grown from a single location in Ooltewah with 34 attendees in its first service, to over 1200 with multiple locations in just 11 years.
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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
16 // November 2015
2003 Elmendorf St, 37406 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 Lighthouse Baptist Church 423.624.4125 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 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 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 Fourth Avenie Church of God 423.867.4545 3912 4th 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 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 Redemption Point Highland Park 423.855.7321 1907 Bailey Ave, 37404 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 Woodmore Church of God 423.899.0827 1115 North Moore Rd, 37411 Word Center Church of God 423.867.3330 4803 13th Ave, 37407 Church of God in Christ
Nazarene Alton Park Church of the Nazarene 423.756.2468 4004 Dorris St, 37410 Nazarene Calvary Church of the Nazarene 423.892.5771 4400 Bonny Oaks Dr, 37416 East Brainerd Church of the Nazarene 423.499.8643 8101 East Brainerd Rd, 37421 East Ridge Church of the Nazarene 423.894.8656 1202 Spring Creek Rd, 37412 First Church of the Nazarene 423.624.2679
2099 East Main St, 37404
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 423.855.0807 3030 Towerway Dr, 37406
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 Celebration Church 423.892.8979 6425 Lee Highway, 37421 The Sacred Heart Mission of Chattanooga 423.238.3835 3914 St Elmo Ave, 37409 Faith Connection Church 423.933.6986 7312 Shallowford Rd, 37421 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 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 Emanuel Pentecostal Church 423.821.5261 4204 Ohls Ave, 37410 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
Vineyard Vineyard Christian Fellowship 423.704.2188 10615 London Ln, 37302
Seventh-Day Collegedale Community 4995 Swinyar Dr. Ooltewah, TN 37363 Hamilton County Church 7997 Shallowford Rd Chattanooga, TN 37421
Wesleyan Faith Community Wesleyan 7725 Shallowford Road Chattanooga, TN 37421
issuu.com/goodnewschatt // 17
FEATURED COVER STORY
30 Years of Broadcasting the Good News “I believe the Gospel is more powerful than suicide bombers, more powerful than nuclear weapons, more powerful than the storm of liberal, political spin. I believe the Gospel is the key, the explosive force that can change the lives of people around the world if we can reach them in time!” (Ron Phillips from “The Key that Unlocks Destiny,” Feb. 4, 2007.)
I
t may be hard to believe that Dr. Ron Phillips, senior pastor of Abba’s House, spoke those words in a sermon eight years ago. This message sounds like it could have been preached last Sunday. And for thirty years, he has been carrying that strong message of the Gospel of Jesus beyond the walls of Abba’s House in Hixson. What started as a local ministry expanded beyond the Tennessee Valley and is now an international broadcast ministry. Why all of the extra time and resources invested in television, radio, publishing, and digital communication? This is Pastor Phillips’ strong conviction: “This Gospel of Jesus must be preached, and then the end will come. That is why we have lights, cameras, and a production facility in our church. That is why we spend so much money trying to get the Gospel out. We have a mandate! The King said, ‘Do it!’ And today, through satellite and internet, television, radio stations and networks, people can watch, listen to, and download the message from Chattanooga, Tennessee, to the ends of the earth.” He adds this New Testament scriptural support,
is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes. . . . For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith; as it is written, ‘The just shall live by faith’” (Rom. 1:16-17 NKJV).
“For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it
Europe, and TBN were added.
18 // November 2015
A Leap of Faith
Each step of this journey into the world of media ministry has been a leap of faith, from “Miracle Day” when the church family came together to unanimously vote to launch this media ministry on May 6, 1984, giving the entire cost of all of the equipment needed and the first year’s airtime in one day, to the leap of faith into high definition ten years ago, to expanding our mission work on the ground and helping fund a Children’s Center and church in the Dominican Republic. On January 6, 1985, the inaugural broadcast of the television ministry of Central Baptist Church of Hixson (now known as Abba’s House), aired in Chattanooga on WDSI, Channel 61. After four years, the ministry began to expand nationwide with the addition of the Southern Baptist ACTS Network; then later INSP, Middle East Television, Daystar, Gospel Channel
The lineup has changed across the years, but today, the Ron Phillips from Abba’s House television program airs internationally on the Daystar Television Network, The Church Channel, TBN HD, Faith TV in Africa, Gospel Channel Europe, and other television stations nationally. For fourteen years, Pastor Phillips hosted a daily radio program, CenterPoint, breaking down complex biblical truths and making them easy to understand. His local radio ministry continues today on J103 and on IBN in North Georgia.
50 Years of Media Ministry
Now, in the thirtieth year of Abba’s House Media, the message is being distributed in ways that were once not even imaginable due to the advent of digital and social media. His blog, theheartofabba.com, is a heartfelt view of his life and a spiritual response to events and issues that impact our lives on a daily basis. Pastor Phillips has authored thirty-four books, including Everyone’s Guide to Demons and Spiritual Warfare (Voted CBA Charismatic Book of the Year), A God-Sized Future, The Power of Agreement (co-authored with Dr. Ronnie Phillips Jr., senior associate pastor at Abba’s House) and most recently, The Hiram Code (September 2015). In February of 2015, Dr. Phillips was honored at the National Religious Broadcasters Convention in Nashville, Tennessee, for excellent use of media in ministry for fifty consecutive years.
Beyond the Pew
Preaching has been a lifelong calling for Pastor Ron, who was called to the ministry at the age of sixteen. And his understanding of the world beyond the pew was evident from the beginning of his ministry. In 1966, Samaria Baptist Church called him as their pastor. This church was the beginning of
his ministry through media, using a loudspeaker to broadcast his sermons throughout the community on Sundays. At every church to follow, Dr. Phillips had a radio ministry, either preaching live on radio or providing a sermon for the stations to broadcast. When he and his wife, Paulette, moved their young family to Hixson in 1979, his desire for using media to minister to the community intensified. He started a radio ministry that aired for many years on WDOD radio and then launched Abba’s House Media through television and radio in 1984.
One Unified Purpose
When God was looking for a prophet to speak to the nation, He came to Isaiah in a stirring vision and asked this question, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?” Then Elijah responded with the answer all Christ followers should give, “Here am I. Send me!” (Isa. 6:8 NIV). Every church and every pastor has a different calling from God. But for all Bible-believing churches, pastors, and Christ-followers sitting inside those churches and listening to those sermons, there is one unified purpose. And He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation. He who has believed and has been baptized shall be saved; but he who has disbelieved shall be condemned” (Mark 16:15 NASB). “I’ve never thought of myself as a TV evangelist,” says Pastor Phillips. “I’m a local pastor who uses television to get the Gospel out to those who will never step foot in the doors of a church. Before we give a dime to any other mission work, twenty percent of everything given here goes to get this message out so that when we stand before God, we’ll say by television, by internet, by radio, by Tweet, by Facebook, by whatever we could, in every way, we have shared the Good News to all creation.” Ron Phillips has been senior pastor of Abba’s House for thirty-six years. Learn more about the church and view the weekly television program, Ron Phillips from Abba’s House, at abbashouse.com.
issuu.com/goodnewschatt // 19
Gò0dNews for Parents
Go Ahead and Quit! Parenting in obedience to God is really tough.
P
arenting is tough stuff. Parenting in obedience to God is really tough stuff. God never promised it would easy, but He promises to be with you. On a particularly tough homeschooling day last week when the perfect storm of frustrated student met frustrated mom who was also the frustrated teacher, I sent my sweet unsuspecting husband this text: “I quit!” (I can be a bit dramatic when I let my emotions sit in the driver’s seat). In full transparency, it wasn’t the first text of the week like that.Parenting in obedience to God means bringing up your children in a God-centered, eternally minded environment that is guided by God and His ways. Parents who succeed declares that their children do not belong to the world, but are set apart, dedicated to the Lord for His good work and holy calling. This battle-stance provokes
20 // November 2015
by Alicia Klepper the Enemy of the soul, and because Satan fights what he fears the most, there will be battles (Satan is nothing if not persistent). What is more threatening to the plan of the Enemy than a generation army being raised to be obedient to the Almighty God? One of the aspects of our parenting in obedience to God involves homeschooling. One of the facets of your parental obedience to God may include enforcing rules that make you the mean mom or dad, when requiring church attendance, participating in family Bible devotions, filtering harmful kinds of music, movies, games, serving in the church or community, or if you’re like us, all of the above! I know from personal experience, this is definitely not the easy way, but it is the best and most worthy way. So go ahead and buckle up, because when you roll out the map of parenting in obedience to God, you can schedule some challenges on your
journey: raging storms, violent seas, rocky roads, and the occasional desire to quit. I never quit on the mountain, on the victory lap, on the downhill, or relaxing in the shade. It’s always in the valley, in the middle of the race, on the uphill, facing the heat when I throw my hands up. I know I’m not alone. However, today I want to encourage you to go ahead and throw your hands up. Throw your hands up in surrender to Jesus Christ. Surrender your fears, worries, doubts, inabilities, inadequacies, frustrations, losses, mistakes— everything to God. While you’re at it, go ahead and quit. Quit trying to be in control. God is in control. Quit shaming yourself for your mistakes. The blood of Christ purifies you. Quit raising your children like they don’t first belong to God. They are His creation. Quit fighting like it’s your battle to win, and rest in the fact that the Lord has already won for you. Stand in His victory, for He fights for you, and He is with you. “But you will not even need to fight. Take your positions, and then stand still and watch the Lord’s victory. He is with you. “O people of Judah and Jerusalem. Do not be afraid or discouraged. Go out against them tomorrow, for the Lord is with you!” (2 Chron. 20:17 NLT).
Alicia Klepper and her husband Mark have been married for 13 years. Alicia homeschools their three children. The Kleppers are active members at Peerless Road Church of God of Prophecy.
Church Activities & Events New Haven Baptist Church Youth Revival
November 1 - November 4 • 6pm
1058 Graysville Road • Chattanooga TN
______________________________________________________
Mighty Warriors Church Fall Festival
November 7 • 3pm 7510 Lee Hwy • Chattanooga, TN
________________________________________
Chapel Hill United Methodist Church Reckoning Day
November 8 • 6pm ________________________________________
Concord Baptist Church Andrew Peterson Concert November 14 • 7pm
7025 E. Brainerd Road • Chattanooga TN ________________________________________________
The Gathering Church Know Love Chattanooga
November 4, 2015 • 7pm The Gathering - Great Commission Cafe 4445 Hixson Pike • Hixson, Tn 37343
This network of evangelical churches in Hamilton County is working to combat human trafficking while bringing love and hope to survivors. For more information or to find out how your church can be involved, visit the Know Love website.
Gò0dNews for Life
ARISE Testimony
A
A Bible study group where it is safe to share with like-minded individuals on their journey to healing. bortion Recovery in Study and
it felt safe to share, grieve, cry, and
• Do you avoid the subject of
Encouragement (ARISE) is
laugh. I dealt with feelings of guilt,
abortion or feel guilt, anger, or
the post-abortion program of
shame, unforgiveness, and anger with
sorrow when remembering or
Choices Pregnancy Resource Center.
like-minded women on their journey
ARISE offers hope and healing through
to healing. We’ve maintained our
confidential support groups and
friendship and have formed a Beyond
counseling for post-abortive women
ARISE Group for continued support. It
and men. Every person who comes
was a difficult journey but well worth
in terms of “before” and “after”
through our doors has a different
every single step to gain forgiveness
the abortion?
story. Sharon* is one of many who
and freedom so I can live the abundant
has experienced healing and freedom
life Christ died to give me!”
through ARISE. “When I entered the ARISE
If you have had an abortion or been involved in an abortion decision,
discussing your abortion? • Do you believe you can’t tell anyone about the abortion? • Do you tend to think of your life
• Do you have feelings of anger toward the people who were involved in your abortion? • Have you found yourself
program, I was shattered and
perhaps you are thinking, Okay, but
either avoiding or becoming
emotionally beaten down. Things
that’s in the past. Do I really need to be
overly dependent in your
happened in life and I had made really
healed?
horrible choices. The Enemy wanted
Some people seemingly never
relationships? • Do you have increased feelings
me to believe his lies to alienate
need to work through any kind of
of anxiety or struggled with
me from people that really cared;
healing process. But for many, the
depression since the abortion?
he wanted me to soak in my river
memory of abortion lies like a hidden
of regret where I almost drowned.
infection within, weakening and
the use of drugs or alcohol since
Drinking and depressed, I gave up
impairing them in ways they may have
the abortion, or do you have an
on everything—I did not care. I felt
never realized were related.
eating disorder?
unworthy of the Father’s promises through His Son, Jesus. One Sunday the Lord led me to a church where I heard a woman’s
Is that true for you? See if you recognize yourself in some of the following questions:
• Have you begun or increased
• Do you sometimes have nightmares relating to the abortion? If so, it is likely you are
abortion testimony. After the service, I
experiencing post-abortion stress
inquired about the ARISE program and
syndrome. Encouragement and
signed up for the Bible study group.
support are offered through a powerful
Jehovah Rapha, the Lord my healer,
six-week Bible study that promotes
met me there where
healing in the hearts of participants experiencing the aftermath of an abortion. Contact Linda Williams at (423) 266-8322 or lwilliams@ choiceschattanooga.org to participate in a study, or if you need support, information, and assistance. All correspondence is confidential.
22 // November 2015
*Name changed to protect confidentiality.
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Gò0dNews for Health & Fitness The Basic Tool for Success in Fitness . . . and Life! “Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit.” —Proverbs 18:21 (NKJV)
T
by Thomas Morrison
here is a miracle waiting to be unleashed, and
A slice of lean turkey? An apple and some brown rice
the secret lies right under your nose! Literally!
perhaps? Of course not. You thought about chocolate!
Most people can upgrade the quality of their lives
Why? Because your mind does not process a negative
dramatically by simply harnessing the power of their words.
command before it introduces the subject to your thinking.
Proverbs 18:21 is just as relevant for us today if we are ever
And now, the very thing you are trying to avoid is at the
going to experience the power we need to reach our goals!
forefront of your thinking! This is why you want to focus
When Words Become Worlds
Let’s start by asking a simple question: What were you
thinking just before you got that last piece of pizza, or went through the drive-thru for a fast-food burger? Were you
your statements in the positive. Focus on what you want— not what you don’t want.
The Power of Truth
Do any of these sound familiar?
focused on obtaining a flat, firm stomach and a healthy meal
• “I’m fat.”
after your workout? I doubt it! We don’t need to wonder
• “I’m dying for a piece of cake!
why we drive through the Golden Arches. Our thoughts drive us. So how are you going to focus your mind to
• “Nothing ever goes my way!” They are just simple examples, but they illustrate
drive you to the true goals you have in your heart?
how prone we are to exaggerate (lie) when
The easiest way is to simply use the basic tools of
expressing our feelings. The problem is, if speaking
the mind that you have at your disposal. And those
like that becomes a habit for us, we start to never
tools are words.
Life or Death, Positive or Negative
feel good anymore. Our words (the building blocks of our thought) are charged with negative emotional connotations. State what you want when you talk much more than what you don't want.
Unfortunately, we live
"I want to be leaner and more alive" is
in a negative world, and many
much better than "I'm tired of being
of us compound the problem by
fat and feeling like my life is slipping
speaking negative about ourselves!
away." See the difference? Comprehend
Positive or negative, the principle
where your mind goes when you make
works the same. You must be very
each statement, and understand that
careful about what you look at and focus
your mind is creating the reality you
on in your thought life. And you mustn’t seek to
experience. This is not Voodoo—it is
drive away the negative things by complaining about them, cursing them, or rededicating yourself to stand against them. It’s like the old saying: “Don’t curse the darkness, light a lamp
God-given responsibility. So you see; change your thoughts (words), and you can change your life.
instead.” Say this to yourself: “I will not think about a piece of chocolate.” Now, with that piece of determined dedication, what have you thought about?
24 // November 2015
Thomas Morrison is the fitness coordinator and a personal trainer at Bradley Wellness Center in Dalton, GA, where he has served for the past 15 years. You can find out more about him and his writings at www.bradleywell.com.
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Gò0dNews for Teens
You Are Enough
I
Stay in the Word and remember the purpose God has for you. by Ashley Smith t doesn’t matter if you’re twelve or seventy-two,
more about the plans He had for my life, and how
rejection is always hard to deal with. When it
they were so much more than what I could envision.
comes from our peers, we automatically assume
I could also see how He had a purpose in my life, and
that there is something wrong with us, that we are
how I crossed paths with the very people who were
lacking something that keeps us from being enough.
meant to be in my life. I began to see that He created
We may think we are weird or different, and that can
me to be just me—weird personality, quirks, and all.
cause us to try to hide part of who we are to fit in with others. For several years, I was that girl—the one who
Psalms 139:14 says “I will praise You for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Marvelous are Your works, and that my soul knows very well” (NKJV).
wanted everyone to like me. I was always sort of shy
Once I truly believed that verse, I could fully become
and reserved, viewed as a girl with
the person God had wanted me to be all along. When
a weird personality. It kept me from
I stopped trying to be like everyone else, I realized
opening up to a lot of people unless
that people actually do like me for who I am.
I truly knew them. Otherwise, I would just agree with the crowd and follow along. This need to be accepted by the majority followed me through high school, and partially into college. Through that time, I lost some of my shyness and became more outgoing, but I still wasn’t very confident in who I was. My
When you think about it, everyone is different. We aren’t meant to be cookie-cutter people with identical lives. How boring would it be if we all had the exact house on matching streets and cars that looked alike? Personally, I like a little flair to life, and that would just be so dull. The most important thing to realize is that the only opinion that truly matters is God’s. People will still reject you because Jesus was
personality is kind of loud and
rejected, but that doesn’t lessen
different, but not the cool type of
the purpose that God has for
different (if there is such a thing);
you. To learn more about who
it’s just weird. Because of that, I was
God created you to be, read His
so afraid someone might think poorly
Word and develop a daily time of
of me.
prayer with Him. The more you
Then something awesome happened. I started to learn who
seek Him, the more that He will show you.
I was in Jesus. I started to learn
26 // November 2015
Ashley Smith is a member of Cornerstone Church of God where she is the youth leader. She graduated from Lee University in 2010 with her degree in biology.
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Gò0dNews for Seniors
All About Gratitude Focus on the good and positive experiences in your life.
W
by Karen Brummer
hat is gratitude? The dictionary tells us it is a
they feel and express gratitude; and gratitude has the ability
noun meaning, “the quality of being thankful;
to improve relationships and motivate employees. Studies
readiness to show appreciation for and to
even show that gratitude has the ability to improve one’s
return kindness.” To me, gratitude and thankfulness are
financial condition! Interestingly, science has also found that
also emotions. I feel those things deeply. I love counting my
gratitude is highly correlated with emotional maturity, so
blessings, especially at night because I find so many that I’m
don’t expect a teen to express as much gratitude as perhaps
always asleep before I can finish counting. I personally begin
a grandmother.
with the blessings of opportunities, and first on the list is the opportunity I was given to grow up in a loving family. What a blessing! I get a surge of overwhelming emotion each time
• “Gratitude is not only the greatest of virtues, but the parent of all the others.” —Cicero • “Do not indulge in dreams of having what you have
I consider how blessed I have been by that opportunity.
not, but reckon up the chief of the blessings you do
What is first on your gratitude list?
possess, and then thankfully remember how you
People feel and express gratitude in multiple ways. We recall positive memories and feel thankful for past blessings; we assess good fortune in the present as blessings, knowing there are many less fortunate that we; and we maintain hopeful attitudes about the future. Regardless of the current level of someone’s gratitude, it’s a quality that individuals can successfully cultivate further. How? By focusing on the good and positive experiences in our lives. While religions and philosophies have long taught the benefits of being thankful, even science has found gratitude to be important in our lives. Research shows improved well-being among grateful people; people are happier when
would crave for them if they were not yours.” — Marcus Aurelius • “Reflect upon your present blessings, of which every man has plenty; not on your past misfortunes of which all men have some.” —Charles Dickens • “When eating bamboo sprouts, remember the man who planted them.” —Chinese Proverb • “Giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.”—Holy Bible • “Never let the things you want make you forget the things you have!” —Author unknown • “What if you gave someone a gift, and they neglected to thank you for it. Would you be likely to give them another?” —Anonymous At The Terrace at Mountain Creek, we are truly thankful for the caring staff who share their compassion and energies daily, and our absolutely wonderful residents who have rich histories of service to their families, their jobs, and their country; residents with a depth of knowledge and experience we respect deeply. We claim our residents and staff as family, and we are thankful for each one.
28 // November 2015
Karen Brummer is the community relations liaison at The Terrace at Mountain Creek, where she can show her passion for seniors. She not only educates the public on the many aspects of senior living, but she also has a rich history of face-to-face contact with prospects, residents, and their families. This experience, combined with her real-life role of daughter to parents in their 80s, gives her firsthand understanding of seniors and the challenges they face.
Gò0dNews for Everyone
Trauma in the Labor Room “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” —Philippians 4:13 (NKJV)
by Gracie Hixson
O
n October 15, 2002, Kelly Hixson was a bit
Although my mom was relieved that I did not have
excited as she prepared to give birth to her baby
any life-threatening injuries, she knew that life for me
girl. As with most mothers, this was a time of
would have challenges. I could not crawl, but that didn’t
great joy, but for my mom, this night would also bring
stop my determination—even as an infant. I quickly began
great sadness. The joy came eighteen hours later when I
to scoot on my bottom and then was able to get anywhere I
was born. As doctors began to scramble, my mom could
wanted to go quickly. Then I began walking, but because of
tell that something was wrong. She knew right away that
the nerve damage in my left arm, I was a little off balance,
her little girl was in trouble.
and I fell all the time. Because I could not extend my arm to
Long anatomical descriptive terms began to fly out of
catch myself, there was always concern that I would break
the mouths of the medical staff, and all my mom knew was
a bone. Still, this didn’t stop my determination. I would get
her little girl’s left arm was not moving. The doctors soon
back up and keep on going.
broke the news of the diagnosis: Brachial Plexus Palsy—a loss of movement or weakness of the arm. It occurs when the collection of nerves around the shoulder are damaged during birth.
Months passed and the doctors knew I would need surgery if I ever wanted movement in my arm. At nine months, I was taken to Texas Children’s Hospital in Houston, Texas, where a team of specialist prepared me and my family for nerve surgery. My surgery was a success, but even with surgery, the doctors told my family there would always be limitations and things I couldn’t do. Thirteen years have passed since my injury, and I am still as determined as I was as an infant. I do not let my limitations stop me from doing anything. Things that are simple for my classmates might take me a little longer. For example, it is hard for me to do push-ups in gym class and to fix my hair. I just try to figure out a different way of doing things. I have played baseball, basketball, volley ball, and participated in cheerleading, public speaking, singing, climbing trees, and chasing my big brother. The sport that I love the most is soccer. You might think I have a really hard life, but I still try to do my best in my own special way. I never give up, and I never let my left arm stop me from doing the things I love. This is all just a part of who I am!
30 // November 2015
Gracie Hixson is a 7th grade student at Ocoee Middle School where she plays soccer and the trumpet. She is a member of the FCA and attends Heritage Fellowship Church of God.
Gò0dNews
Christian Magazine
Family Night AT JENKINS RESTAURANT & DELI
DECEMBER 12 • 5pm - 8pm
Kids eat for $1 with every adult entree purchase.
• Door Prizes! • Free Treats For The Kids! • Kids Coloring Contest!
5K For Joe Keller Saturday, November 14, 2015 • 8am Sign In & Registration • 9am Race Start • Pre-Registration: $25 (until Nov. 6) • Day of Race: $30 • 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk: $15 All proceeds go directly to the Keller family to help with the extensive cost of searching for their son, Joe. Donations will be accepted the day of the race. The 5K is open to all ages, however, all minors must be accompanied by an adult.
Gò0dNews for Couples
Being Unified—Jesus at the Center
W
Let Christ be united with you in your relationship. by Mindy White
e are coming up on my favorite time of the year—a wonderful time of year to celebrate, reflect, make new memories, and to be thankful for all that we have. On the other hand, sometimes we can get so busy with work, family, friends, and church activities that we feel like we are in a whirlwind. The months of November and December are usually the busiest and the most stressful holiday seasons. Many times I have felt like my husband and I are in two different worlds trying to fit everything in. These are the times we have to take time to reunite as a couple. We need to look at where we are headed and what we are trying to accomplish. I want to remind you of the possibilities that come with the power of unity and why God placed you together as a couple in the first place. Ecclesiastes 4 tells us that “Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up” (vv 9-10 NIV). You are a team; be united in your goals even if you aren't always together for every moment and occasion in your life. You need each other. The Enemy tries to isolate us and make us feel like we are alone. God has put you together to help each other make it through this life. You are together for a reason, so focus on that togetherness. If one of you is having a hard time in an area of life, then the other is there to pick you up and help move you forward or help you finish the tasks for the day. Think how quickly you can make it through your daily to-do lists when you are both working at them. Get that good return
32 // November 2015
for your labor spoken about in Scripture. Be united in your effort and don't leave one person to do everything. The other side of that is accepting help and not taking everything on as your own responsibility. This applies to everything in your life—big and small. Those small tasks are training ground for the big events in your life and your relationships. Some are good and some are not so good. How you handle the little things gives you practice for when the tough times hit. You may feel like those small items don't matter in your relationship, but they do. Your relationship is strengthened and unified when you work on those life events together. Verse 12 goes on to say: “Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.” Make sure Christ is the third person in your relationship and that He is at the center of it all. If He isn't, you need to stop were you are and get Him there. The Enemy is after your relationship with each other and with Christ. Don't give him an inch because he will take a mile. Stop him in his tracks and remember the cord of three strands isn't easily broken. You want a strong cord and one that is dependent on Christ as the strongest thread. Try as you might, you will never make it without Him personally or as a couple. Don't let that even be an issue. Put Christ first and keep Him there.
Mindy White and her husband Robert have been married for 20 years. They have 3 kids, Brittain, Noah, and Alaina. She is a member of Cornerstone Church of God where she is the ladies ministry president.
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Gò0dNews for Everyone THE KINGDOM COMES . . . THROUGH YOU! by Dave Carringer
“A
nd whatever you do,
around us. It reminds us that we have
It doesn’t matter if you’re an
in word or deed, do it
been made one with Christ Jesus. It
astronaut, an accountant; the CEO of a
all in the name of the
reminds us that Jesus wants to be
billion-dollar corporation, or a stay-
Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the
intricately involved in every word and
at-home-mom. It’s really not as much
Father through him” (Col. 3:17). What
action we take part in today! It reminds
about what you’re doing. It’s about who
an amazing verse to start each day!
us that He has given us the authority
you are reflecting as you do it! The
This is not talking about us searching
to use His name to do the works of
entire third chapter of Colossians has
for “churchy,” religious activities to
the kingdom, as well as the ability,
to do with the character of our “New
be busy with, in effort to please God;
by His Spirit, to be a literal, tangible,
Man” in Christ Jesus. Paul reminds us
and the context really doesn’t have
manifestation of His character, love,
of this redeeming truth in Galatians
anything to do with what others are
and power as we do it. It’s possible to
2:20: “It is no longer I who live, but
doing at all. Look again at the first
actually change someone’s life forever
Christ who lives in me.”
four words and let them sink in: “And
by simply giving them a glass of water
whatever you do.”
in the love and Spirit of Christ. (see
personality, are the very expression of
Mark 9:41).
God’s own heart, and He made you the
We should be encouraged with this each morning as we start our day. This
The Message translates Romans
Friend, your gifts, talents, and
way you are on purpose. Tomorrow
isn’t some religious command we’re
12:1 this way: “So here’s what I want
when you wake up, remember this;
required to do to please God; for if we
you to do, God helping you: Take your
Somewhere in the course of your day,
have faith in Christ’s finished work
everyday, ordinary life—your sleeping,
there is someone God wants to touch
and have made Him our Lord, then
eating, going-to-work, and walking-
with the love of His Kingdom, and He
God is already pleased with us and
around life—and place it before God as
wants to do it . . . through you! As you
has fully accepted us in His beloved
an offering. Embracing what God does
start your day, remember Jesus’ words:
Son. Friends, this is an empowering
for you is the best thing you can do
“Behold, I am with you always . . . and
invitation of honor from on high, to
for Him.”
just as my Father has sent me, I also
share the kingdom of God with those
send you” (see Matt. 28:20; John 20:21).
34 // November 2015
Dave Carringer is a minister of the Gospel. God called him behind the bars in 1997, where he and his wife, Kay, share the Good News with thousands of state prison inmates each year. They also own Abundant Living Organic Foods and FRUITION Juice and Smoothie Bar.
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