Gò0dNews October 2015
Complimentary
Christian Magazine
CHATTANOOGA
• What Is The Church p. 6 • Strength p. 12 • Time For Peace p. 22
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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Writers
Pastor Mike Shreve Andrew Lee Beth Houle Brenda Dedmon Fernando Alejandro Karen Brummer Kristy Adams Lindsey Cooke Melissa Noble Snyder Nathan Long Rhiannon Skeen Terri Whiteside William Lamb
About Us 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
W
ith October comes many changes. The leaves are changing to brilliant colors, the temperature is cooler, which alerts us to turn up the thermostat, pull out heavier clothes, and put away our sandals and flip-flops. Summer is past. It’s time to move into a new season and realize that change is not our enemy—it’s part of life! We often experience personal changes in our health or surroundings, which may be awkward and uncomfortable at first. That doesn’t mean it’s wrong—just that it’s new. Soon it gets easier. Remember, it takes hundreds of blows for a stone-cutter to split a rock. Each stroke combines with those before, building eventual success. Learning to handle change
happens the same way. We all have an emotional thermostat that wants to return us to the comfort of our preset status quo based on our old beliefs. This thermostat is built on years of reinforcement and must be reset in this process. No wonder change is a challenge. If you treat change as an enemy, if you try to keep it from touching your life, it will penetrate more, and you’ll be under greater pressure. But if you look at change as a friend, as something that’s going to happen to you anyway, things are different. Ask, “How can I make the best of this situation? How can I look at change as an opportunity for improvement?” The good news is that when our conscious beliefs match our unconscious beliefs, there is no stopping us. When this happens, we are living life from the inside out. Put another way, we are living a congruent life. It is this congruency that allows us to fulfill our purpose, achieve our goals with peace, and be our very best. Rhiannon Skeen’s article (p. 22) describes this process. Sometimes the changes that produce stress are the very things that give color and enjoyment to life. The things that have enriched my life are often found in situations I might have avoided if I were afraid of change and challenge. Dealing with the challenges has made me stronger and better able to withstand pressure. Ezekiel 36:26 gives us this promise: “I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you” (NKJV). 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.
October 2015
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About Us GoodNews from the Pastor’s Desk What Is the Church? by Pastor Mike Shreve GoodNews for Kids Pumpkin Fun Time by Kristy Adams GoodNews on Money Matters Knowing What to Do and Then Doing It by Andrew Lee GoodNews for Men Strength by Nathan Long GoodNews for Women Girls with Swords Are Battle-Worthy Opponents by Melissa Noble Snyder GoodNews for Parents WHO IS IN CHARGE AT YOUR HOUSE? by Brenda Dedmon GoodNews for Everyone Time for Peace by Rhiannon Skeen GoodNews for Health & Fitness Playground Workouts by Lindsey Cooke GoodNews for Teens God’s Grace Is Sufficient by Fernando Alejandro GoodNews for Seniors It’s All in Your Head! by Karen Brummer GoodNews for Everyone Here or There by Terri Whiteside GoodNews for Couples The Power of Words by Beth Houle GoodNews for Service You Can’t Sleep Your Life Away by William Lamb
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
What Is the Church? by Mike Shreve
A
cts 2:47 explains, “The Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved.” So from the start, “the church” was a work of God, not a work of man. The word “church” is translated from the Greek word ecclesia (pronounced ek-klaysee’-ah) meaning “called out ones.” So all who are in the church have been called out of darkness into His marvelous light” (see 1 Pet. 2:9). Presently, over two billion people claim the Christian faith in this world. However, there is a “professing church” (those who profess an intellectual belief in a historical Christ) and a smaller-in-number “possessing church” at its core (those who possess a genuine, personal relationship with Jesus). This latter group is made up of sincere lovers of God out of every denomination who are born again (John 3:1-7). This is the true church—not an organization, but a living organism—the body of Christ worldwide. The church is the most valuable institution in the world. Acts 20:28 declares we are “the church of God which He has purchased with His own blood.” Whenever we purchase something, we must first be convinced that the item is more valuable to us than the price—or we will never make the transaction. In like manner, God must have decided that even though we were sin-stained and under a curse, we were more valuable to Him than His own blood. How amazing is that!
The Church Is the Most Important Institution in the World
The church is called “the pillar and foundation of the truth” (1 Tim. 3:15 NKJV). This world is saturated with deception. But the church is a memorial “pillar” raised up high above all nations radiating the bright
6 // October 2015
light of truth. Furthermore, the church is a strong foundation on which God is building His eternal plans and purposes. Without this influence, there is no hope for the seed of Adam.
The Church Is the Most Blessed Institution in the World
The Savior asked Peter, “What do people say about the Son of Man?” The chief apostle responded, “Some people say you are John the Baptist . . . or some other prophet.” Jesus replied, “Who do you say that I am?” Peter answered, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God” (Matt. 16:13-16 CEV). Jesus then declared Peter was blessed because he received that insight from God, not from people—then He declared: “Upon this rock I will build My church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it” (Matt. 16:18 KJV). In other words, the greatest adversaries of the human race—death, the grave, eternal destruction— will not triumph over the Church because it has been formed, not by doctrinal persuasion, but by supernatural revelation. Therefore, absolutely nothing can prevent its members from obtaining ultimate victory, because God declares Himself both "the Author and the Finisher of our faith" (Heb. 12:2). At the resurrection we will emerge: “A glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but . . . holy and without blemish” (Eph. 5:27). Yes, we will then be “called out” of time into eternity, and ultimate, absolute, irreversible victory will be ours—forevermore! Mike Shreve and his wife Elizabeth pastor The Sanctuary in Cleveland, Tennessee. They also run a Christian publishing company called Deeper Revelation Books. Their church celebrates the Old Testament feasts from a New Covenant perspective. www.shreveministries.org
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Gò0dNews for Kids
Pumpkin Fun Time Get ready to learn, play, and decorate!
H
by Kristy Adams
ere in beautiful North Georgia, pumpkins are harvested in early fall and echo the changing colors of the leaves. Since pumpkins are used as a decoration for the fall season, children see them everywhere! Pumpkins are the ultimate October icons—the fruit of the month, if you will. (Yes, pumpkins are a fruit.) This month, celebrate pumpkins with these hands-on activities that will add fun to your child’s learning. Get ready to make a mess, and develop some amazing family memories with these pumpkin projects.
Chalkboard Pumpkin
Painting a pumpkin with chalkboard paint provides endless drawing and writing activities that can be done many times on the same pumpkin. You can find chalkboard paint at almost any craft store. I use the spray paint in a can. Paint the entire pumpkin. Once the paint is dry, your little artist can draw faces on the pumpkin with different colored chalk. Older children can practice writing spelling words or even practice vocabulary words such as adjectives. Get creative and have your child write as many descriptive words as he or she can on the pumpkin. The beauty of this project is that as long as the pumpkin lasts, so does the paint and the activities.
8 // October 2015
Pumpkin Seed Math
Pumpkins come in all shapes and sizes. Turn your dining room table into an estimation station. Have your family members guess the weight of the pumpkin, the number of seeds in the pumpkin, the circumference of the pumpkin, and the height of the pumpkin. Once everyone has had a chance to write down his or her answers, start measuring and counting! To make it even more fun, have a little prize to give to the winners. You can also use the seeds to practice simple math. Add, subtract, skip count, and sort the seeds for some hands-on math fun.
Pumpkin Senses
Have your child use his or her five senses to describe a pumpkin. What does it look like? How does it feel? What does it taste like? Does it make a sound? Then, have your child compare a pumpkin to an apple, using all five senses. This is a great way to build vocabulary and learn how to be descriptive when talking and writing.
Pumpkin Art
If you are anything like me, then you have a plethora of art supplies around your home. Why not use those supplies to make some fancy pumpkins. Not only is this a great way to clean out those art tubs, but it is a great way to decorate pumpkins with younger children without having to carve with a knife. Paint, glitter, markers, paper, feathers, buttons, and even pushpins can be used to turn a plain pumpkin into a fantastic work of art. Because you are not cutting the pumpkin open, it will also last much longer on your front porch. It is virtually impossible to avoid the excitement inspired by the harvesting of fall pumpkins. This is the best time of the year to utilize the endless possibilities of pumpkins in your home or classroom. Happy fall! Kristy Adams Centers for Creative Learning Owner Educational Therapist Dyslexia Specialist
Norvel Hayes Ministries
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Gò0dNews on Money Matters
Knowing What to Do and Then Doing It
D
Stop swiping the credit cards for convenience and practice what you’ve learned about your personal finances. by Andrew Lee
ave Ramsey, perhaps the
we know we should be doing. (In that
month before the money ever reaches
best-known among the Chris-
sense, financial planning success is often
your checking account? You knew that
tian financial counselors on
compared to taking care of one’s health
many experts recommend that we save
the airwaves today, has often said that
and maintaining a healthy body weight.
between 10 to 15 percent of our gross
“Personal finance is 20 percent head
We know we should eat the salad and
income every month in an automatic
knowledge and 80 percent behavior.”
veggies instead of ordering that pizza,
payroll deduction going into our 401(k)
Based on my own personal experience,
but it’s another matter to actually do it).
or 403(b) retirement plans. You had
as well as what I’ve observed in oth-
So if we know what we should be
planned to call the payroll office and
ers over the years, I would agree with
doing financially—living on less than
take care of this one day soon but you
Ramsey’s sentiments. These days, it’s
we make, saving regularly, paying off
never actually followed through.
not hard to find financial information,
debt aggressively, making a budget and
investing tips, savings rates, and online
sticking to it—then why don’t many of
instead of credit cards when shopping
budgeting tools and retirement calcula-
us actually follow through by practicing
or dining out would help us to spend
tors just about anywhere we look. If
what we’ve learned? The ancient Greek
less and save more; but we never actu-
that’s not enough, there are television
philosopher Socrates probably said it
ally followed through, and instead kept
channels like MSNBC and Fox Business
best with his simple maxim to “Know
swiping the credit card for convenience.
Channel that bombard us with all things
thyself.” We need to take an intimate
But how convenient is the 18 percent
financial, all the time, 24/7.
and honest look at ourselves, where
interest rate we’re paying on those credit
So for many people, financial litera-
Likewise, we knew that using cash
we fall short in our financial discipline,
cards, not to mention late fees? Not to be
cy, wealth building, and debt reduction
and where we had good intentions but
outdone by Socrates, William Shake-
aren’t usually a matter of not knowing
never followed through. For instance,
speare wrote in Julius Caesar, “The fault,
what to do. Rather, the issue simply
why haven’t you ever increased your au-
dear Brutus, is not in our stars, but in
becomes mustering up the will power
tomatic payroll deduction to contribute
ourselves.” Or to put it another way, in
and determination to actually do what
to your company’s retirement plan every
the words of the old comic strip, Pogo, “We have met the enemy, and he is us.” Ultimately, all of our financial knowledge is pointless without practical implementation in our daily lives. This requires discipline. As the wisest financial manual of all time, the Book of Proverbs 25:28 tells us, “A man without self-control is like a city broken into and left without walls” (ESV).
10 // October 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
Strength
In moments of greatest stress, strong Christians submit their will as opposed to exerting their will.
T
by Nathan Long
ake a second and answer this: “Describe a man in
definition of “strong” but took some time to read the
three words or less.” What did you come up with?
second and third definition’s synonyms: “secure and
Did you list characteristics or make a sentence?
long-lasting.” These words, for me, bring out an image
What does this show you about how you view males? I
of a different kind of strong—images of male teachers,
recently asked local college students to answer the same
leaders, and mentors in my life who have been a safe
initial question and had over 200 students, both men and
haven and a base for me. So maybe it’s not the word
women, respond. Can you guess what the number one
strong that’s the issue but my assumptions to the word
answer was? The number one answer was strong.
itself! Maybe it’s time to change my paradigm from a
If you’re anything like me, I cringe when I hear this description. Images of chauvinistic, pompous, generally
worldly idea of strong to a Godly one. Matthew 26:36-46 is the story of Jesus in the Garden
distasteful people who are all but desirable to be like,
of Gethsemane and one of the stories I see where Jesus’
come to mind. One way it was put, when the Disney
strength shown brightest. Jesus was at His rope’s end;
movie-lovers out there hear the word strong, they think
His final mission was about to start, and He knew that
of the “Gastonia” male. Looking at the Oxford dictionary
it wasn’t going to be easy. It’s in the moments of great
synonyms of strong doesn’t help either. With words such
stress where the temptation of “I need to hold it together
as, “powerful, muscular, rugged, lusty . . .” who can help
for the good of others,” the temptation of “If I ask for help
but conjure up images of a boozy Gaston singing about
I’m weak,” and the temptation of “I need to make a plan”
how awesome he is.
become the most enticing. In this story though, we see
Being an optimist, I’d like to think that the majority of the college-aged students weren’t referring to the first
that Jesus did the exact opposite of these temptations. 1. He didn’t hide His emotions (v. 37). 2. He asked for help from God and His friends (v. 38) 3. He submitted to God’s plan (v. 39) The Christian idea of strength is the exact opposite of the world’s. Strong Christians are the ones who submit their will as opposed to exerting their will, no matter how much they want to do otherwise. Jesus could have called angels to save Him from the cross, but He chose the hard way—the higher road and did what was right as opposed to what was easy. That’s what strong is for the Christian: doing what’s right even unto death.
12 // October 2015
Nathan Long graduated from Lee University in 2012 with a bachelor of science degree in pastoral ministries. He is currently the resident director of New Hughes Hall at Lee University while completing a master’s degree in marriage and family therapy.
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Gò0dNews for Women
Girls with Swords Are Battle-Worthy Opponents To be equipped to fight the spiritual battles, we must be on guard with our sword—the Word of God.
W
by Melissa Noble Snyder
omen need reminding that we are in war—a
The Word tells us to “put on the full armor of God so
battle between good and evil, light and
we can stand against the tactics of the enemy.” We must be
darkness, and for most of us, we struggle
equipped and ready for battle. How do we get equipped?
with the battle in our minds. This battle is called spiritual
We get the necessary training and preparation by:
warfare. The Bible tells us that the Word of God is a sword,
• Spending time in the Word
an essential weapon enabling us to fight these battles.
• Studying the Word
Imagine holding a sword with both hands. Because of this sword, you have influential power. You can fight
• Memorizing the Word Lastly, we must wield the Word as the mighty
offensively and defensively. A mighty woman of God
weapon it is. “For the Word of God is living and active. . .
with the sword can successfully protect, defend, and
. It penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and
attack the Enemy. Girls with swords are targets for attack. Satan does not want us
marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart” (Heb. 4:12 NIV). As girls with a sword, we will
to live for God. He wages a battle
have spiritual battles throughout
for our souls because we are battle-
our lives. These battles will give us
worthy opponents. He looks for
opportunities to glorify and serve
ways to get us off track, to get us
our Commander-in-Chief, Jesus
confused, to cause us to doubt, to
Christ. Once the battle is over and we
get us depressed, and to make us
are victorious, we have a testimony
question God and what the Bible
to share. Brag and boast about His
says. The forces of evil are on the
goodness. “Let not the wise boast in
earth searching for opportunities to
his wisdom, let not the mighty boast
catch us off guard.
in his might, let not the rich boast
Being a woman of God is a call
in his riches, but let him who boasts
to arms. We cannot fight spiritual
boast in this, that he understands
warfare using earthly methods, or
and knows me, that I am the Lord
battle in the flesh. If we do, we will
who practices steadfast love, justice,
lose. As soldiers of God, we listen
and righteousness in the earth. For
only to our Commander-in-Chief.
in these things I delight, declares the
When we follow His commands we demonstrate our faithfulness, obedience, trust and our
Lord” (Jer. 9:23-24 NIV). There is a warrior in every woman of God who
willingness to follow His orders. As women in His army,
carries a sword. When Satan strikes, raise your sword
we never go into battle alone. The Holy Spirit always enters
with confidence and fight back with the truth. When
into battle with us.
you do this, you win every time. With God, women can
Be on Guard
be an impressive combination of princess and warrior.
One tactic of the Enemy is to get us to fight in our own
strength. He knows we are ineffective on our own and on our own, we are easy prey. He also knows a girl with the sword is unstoppable and unbeatable!
14 // October 2015
Carrying a sword is a beautiful thing. Do it like a hero. In her years of ministry, Melissa Noble Snyder has served in leadership roles in various areas which include counseling, teaching, social services, personal growth education, and Christian Life Coaching. As a writer/editor, she has written award-winning articles and has been recognized for her inspirational, faith-based advice column. Her greatest passion is her calling, which is to inspire women to live Christ-centered lives. She can be contacted at godgirlmelissa@gmail.com
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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 // October 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 2007 East 27th, 37407 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
Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory and Florist
T
he most traumatic time for a family is the unexpected
Our Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory and Florist
death of a loved one. The sudden absence of that per-
officers and staff, with years of longevity and experience
son leaves a vacuum filled with indecision and confu-
include: President Gene Pike, 58 years; Vice President Stephen
sion. It’s hard for most people to think clearly with the grief
Pike, 30 years; East Chapel Manager, Mike Blevins, 26 years;
and details they face. Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory
East Brainerd Chapel Manager, Robert Schrader, 12 years;
and Florist work to make that load easier.
North Chapel Manager, Tom Tallent, 26 years; Valley View
“We urge everyone to preplan a funeral,” Eugene M. Pike
Chapel Manager, Darrin Wolfe, 15 years; Catering Champion,
Jr. stated. “A prearranged funeral has all the details in order
Don Musick, 10 years; Sales Manager Tim Brown,15 years;
when that difficult period comes. Probably 60 percent of our
Sales Manager Dave Auton, 50 years; Hamilton Memorial
funerals are prearranged.”
Gardens Superintendent, Steve Burchard, 28 years; Chat-
The funeral profession is not only a career but a spe-
tanooga Memorial Park Superintendent, Donnie Longley,
cial calling. “We are here to help families through the most
31 years; Care Center Manager, Chase Williams, 11 years;
stressful time of their lives,” explained Gene Pike, President
Florist Manager, Sylvia Wendt, 18 years; Insurance and Death
of Chattanooga Funeral Home. “The greatest challenge is the
Certificate Specialist, Robin Gobble, 10 years; Funeral Home
long hours,” Pike recalled. “We have someone to give comfort
Office Manager, Kay Low, 31 years; Cemetery Office Manag-
and advice seven days a week, twenty-four hours a day.”
ers, Jennifer Loveless, 18 years, Allison Priputin, 27 years, and
Mike Blevins, East Chapel Manager, spoke with pride of the professionalism the company offers. “Most companies are like a revolving door. We have a 100 percent service guaran-
Judy Atkins, 19 years. Many of our other employees, both full and part time, have been with us for 30 or more years. Other full-time members of our organization are: Richard
tee. If a customer is dissatisfied with our services, we will fix
Headrick, Bill Owens, Trevor Wilson, Kevin McDowd, Brad
it or refund the part they didn’t like. Our service is excellent
Wilkey, Jim Sadler, Pam Guinn, Tom Nolan, Haley Mundis,
because of our staff. Each one is well trained and knowledge-
Joe Marler, Mike Taylor, Frank Hilley, Ron Anderson, Steve
able about the business. Some began working here in 1946 and
Wells, Jody Longley, Richard McDaniel, Michael Longley,
are still here.”
John Duncan, Jody Longley, Jim Tucker, Jim Landrum, J.J.
“Most of our people stay until retirement,” according to Stephen Pike, son of Gene Pike. “They have benefits which include company stock purchased through our 401K plan.” Our staff has a combined experience of around 950 years.
Leonard, Beckey Jones, Larry Turk, Tom White, Kay Self, Julie Stevens, Skylar Scoggins, John Janik, Kevin Roberts. Working part time are: Martha Ragland, Joel McDonald, David Thompson, Larry Davis, Frances Farmer, Tom Head,
Martha Ragland has 67 years, Gene Pike has 58 years, John
Jack Molton, Charles Murray, Chris Mylek, Shirley Ownby,
Craven has 55 years, and Joel McDonald and David Thomp-
Wayland Stewart, F.L. Pierce, Dot Longley, Wayne Thompson,
son have 42 years each!
Gary Britt, Laverle Coats, Linda Thompson, Shirley Snell, Ron
18 // October 2015
Biggers, Phyllis Horton, Gary Goodwin, Joyce Longwith, Dan
many church and civic organizations. Gene is a deacon, for-
Lovin, and Steve Yarbrough.
mer finance chair, and president of Friendship Sunday School
“Celebration of Life” is our focus. Making Everlasting
Class at Ridgedale Baptist Church. Gene is past president
Memories is a slide projection of photos from the individual’s
of Chattanooga Civitan Club, president of the Chattanooga
life. Memorabilia on display may be antique cars, fishing
Half Century Club, Board Member of Chattanooga Freedoms
tackle, golf clubs, a handmade quilt, bowling trophies, or any
Foundation, past president of Chattanooga Big Brothers Big
artifacts a family wants to represent their loved one’s life, hob-
Sisters, past president of Contact of Chattanooga and former
bies, and special talents. Catering and decorations can also fol-
board member of Walter Boehm Birth Defects Center.
low a theme, such as “Go Vols” or a favorite NASCAR driver. Most families request a trinity white dove release where
Stephen Pike, a Chattanooga native, is a graduate of McCallie School. He received his degree from the University
three white doves are released (representing the Father, Son
of the South at Sewanee. He is a deacon at Silverdale Baptist
and Holy Spirit). The fourth dove represents the spirit of the
Church, former board member of Bethel Bible Village, and for-
deceased. These doves then fly in formation back to their avi-
mer chair of multiple Pat Boone Golf Tournaments. Stephen
ary in Pikeville, Tennessee.
is a past president of the Hamilton Place Rotary Club. He
Our two cemeteries, Hamilton Memorial Gardens and
has served on the boards of Make a Wish Foundation, Pro Re
Chattanooga Memorial Park, celebrate the lives of those who
Bona, and United Way Board Center for Non-Profits. He cur-
have passed away each calendar year with a Candlelight
rently serves on the board of Volunteers in Medicine, Junior
Service on the first Saturday in December. These ceremonies in-
Achievement, and Fellowship of Christian Athletes.
clude a prayer service, special music, and a remembrance tree.
Mike Blevins is active with Jones Memorial Methodist
Another service our company offers the Chattanooga
Church in East Ridge and the Circle of Faith Sunday School
community is the Escape School presented through churches,
Class. Mike graduated from Lakeview Ft. Oglethorpe High
schools, or organizations to help children avoid abduction and
School and Gupton Jones Mortuary School in Atlanta. Dar-
how to get away if they are kidnapped.
rin Wolfe has served as a bishop for his church, Jesus Christ
Chattanooga Funeral Home began as National Funeral
of Latter Day Saints in Ooltewah. He is a past board member
Home in 1933 at a modest location in the 500 block of McCal-
of Hospice of Chattanooga and is a certified Escape School
lie Avenue. Carroll B. Wells was the first president and served
Trainer. Darrin graduated from Tyner High School, received
until 1974. This chapel moved in 1939 to 1800 block McCallie
his bachelor’s degree from University of South Carolina, and
Avenue. The name Chattanooga Funeral Home was intro-
a mortuary degree from Jefferson State Community College.
duced in 1962. Gene Pike has been president since 1974. Ste-
Robert Schrader is a member of Silverdale Baptist Church St.
phen Pike joined the firm in 1989. The funeral home expanded
Elmo campus. Robert is an ordained minister and a certified
in 1969 to include the North Chapel at 5401 Highway 153 in
Escape School Trainer. Tom Tallent graduated from Rhea
Hixson, adjacent to Hamilton Memorial Gardens, which was
County High School and received his mortuary degree from
acquired in 1996. A second cemetery became part of the orga-
Gupton Jones in Atlanta. Don Musick is a member of St. Ste-
nization in 1994 with the acquisition of Chattanooga Memorial
phen’s Catholic Church, the Elks Lodge #91, and the Knights
Park in White Oak/Red Bank. The East Chapel at 404 South
of Columbus Council #6099. Don serves on the advisory board
Moore Road was established in 1978. The Valley View Chapel
of Room at the Inn. Chase Williams graduated from the Chat-
at 7414 Old Lee Highway was acquired in 1991. The most re-
tanooga School for the Arts and Sciences with two associate
cent expansion occurred in November 2006 with the opening
degrees in Behavioral Science and Mortuary Science and a
of the East Brainerd Chapel at 8214 East Brainerd Road.
bachelor’s degree in Mortuary Science from Cincinnati Col-
In 1970, Chattanooga Funeral Home became part of Service Corporation International, a publicly held company with
lege of Mortuary Science. Most of our employees are involved in every facet of the
over 2000 funeral homes nationwide. This allows prearranged
community. They may be your neighbor or the person who
plans to be transferred to other locations throughout the
sits next to you at church. All of us are willing to help you,
country. Chattanooga Funeral Home preplanning is managed
both in your time of need, or to answer questions you may
by Tim Brown and Dave Auton. They have eleven trained
have about prearranging. Our phone number is 423.698.2541
preneed counselors assisting those wishing to make arrange-
and our website is www.ChattanoogaFuneralHome.com.
ments in advance. The company’s president, Gene Pike, was born in Lafayette and moved to Chattanooga where he has been active in
issuu.com/goodnewschatt // 19
Gò0dNews for Parents
Parenting in Pain
As parents, we should emulate the perfect model of parenting set by God the Father.
T
by Shibu Joseph
he past two months has been a season of pain and
Remember that as parents, we should emulate the
loss in our small community. Unexpected tragedies
perfect model of parenting set for us by God the Father.
and losses are followed by waves of sorry and grief.
We should draw near to our children and nurture an
Though we know and believe God’s grace is sufficient for
environment of open communication with them. Our words
us, it is sometimes difficult to transfer that source of peace
and actions should clearly express that we are for them—not
to a child who is grieving or dealing with pain. In fact, I
against them.
believe one of the hardest tasks parents face is the inability to remove or lessen a child’s pain. My natural instinct might compel me to get close to our child, to hold him and become the comforting, protective presence in his life. I could see myself desperately wanting
Jen Slattery, a contributor to Christ to the World Ministries, ACFW Journal, and the Christian Pulse wrote extensively on teenage depression and the parenting that coincides with it. She reminds us to . . . 1. Recognize that anger and irritation might be a sign of
to take the pain from him.
sadness or depression.
Perhaps it’s as easy as a
2. Encourage open
mother’s kiss on a boo-boo
communication and avoid
when it comes to our five
communication barriers.
year old. But what are we
3. Let your teens know you
expected to do when the
are for them, not against
child is older?
them, and that you will help
As a teenager, I
them through this.
remember dealing with
4. Never judge their emotions;
confusing, depressive
instead, validate them.
emotions after painful
5. Separate emotions from
events. I withdrew from
behaviors. Emotions are never
my family only to hide
sinful or wrong. It is what we
under the shadow of the
do with them that creates sin.
most popular, entertaining
6. Get help when needed.
distraction of the day—
Ultimately, remember
comics, video games, sports, girls, and so on. I recall the
that God created your children in His image. So only He
obvious disdain of some of the adults in my parents’ church.
alone truly understands their hearts and knows the answers
They saw my behavior as defiance or rebellion and freely
to their questions. All we can do is pray often and do our
offered their opinion at times. Instead of seeking God’s
best to listen, love, and lead.
solution for my problem, they would interject that I was looking to the world. However, what they didn’t realize was the emotional roller coaster my growing mind was riding. But my father knew. He knew that I was dealing with new emotions of anger and sadness. And in knowing so, he endeavored to be the parent that communicated the love of Christ despite my circumstance.
20 // October 2015
Shibu M. Joseph is a management consultant, accountant, and entrepreneur with a passion to impact the world in which he gets to live, work, and play. He is married to his best friend Tera (Lynn) and finds great delight in his five-(almost six) year old, Mathew. Shibu and his family are members of the Westmore Church of God. For more information visit www.shibumjoseph.com.
Church Activities & Events The Gathering Church
Scott Memorial Church of God
The Gathering - Great Commission Cafe
1665 Waterhouse Street • East Ridge TN
October 4, 2015 - 7:00pm 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.
Fall Harvest Church
Join us for our 2nd Annual Block Party! SATURDAY, OCTOBER 17TH, 1-4 PM. Entertainment featuring: Robert Streets & Stuart Heights Baptist Church Praise & Worship Team. Face Painting, Bouncy House, Puppet Show & Yard Games for the kids. Free Hot Dog dinner with all the trimmings. Admissions is FREE! ______________________________________________________
One Accord Community Church Fall Festival
October 24 • 2pm 343 Sweetland Dr. • Chattanooga, TN 37415
________________________________________
Silverdale Baptist Church Fall Festival
October 28 • 5:30pm
Heritage Fellowship Church of God Presents
McDonald FREE BBQ Apple & BLUEGRASS Fest Saturday, October 24 | 1-4pm Apple-Smoked
LIVE
MCDONALD, TENNESSEE
Hayride | Door Prizes | Vendors Redneck Games {Bonfire} APPLES | FrP ii ee sd
Rain Date: Saturday, November 7
4635 South Lee Hwy, McDonald, TN | hfcg.org
Gò0dNews for Everyone
Time for Peace
God’s peace replaces our doubts, anxiety, fears, stress, and anger.
I
by Rhiannon Skeen
n Philippians 4:6, Paul tells the people not to be anxious, not to worry. He doesn't offer this as a suggestion, he states it more in the tone of a command. Be anxious for nothing. As a woman, I have looked at this verse and almost laughed because my mind goes 90-0 throughout the day, and worry happens to be what comes often. I don't want to focus on being anxious, but when you are a mom, wife, babysitter, homemaker, and so on, you get anxious. I babysit three days a week, and during those days, I am with my little one and a little boy who is a year old. Having two little ones can cause your anxiety level to skyrocket. Will someone trip? Will someone eat something off the floor? Can I get to them before it chokes them? And the worries go on and on. As if that's not enough, then I come home and I am anxious about what I'll cook, when can I do clothes, did I do dishes? Women worry. We get anxious. We perceive that a lot could happen at any given time, and so we are always on guard. But do we really have to be? Do we really have to fill up our time with worry? No. Nobody has time to be worried all day and night. It takes our mind of off the important things in life, and we are consumed with fear. Anxiety produces nothing positive. It only causes stress. In order to avoid stress, I need to be consumed with the promises of God, not the doubts of the devil.
22 // October 2015
Time for Peace
We don't have time to be anxious because we are busy, so the solution is to make time for peace. In Philippians 4:7 Paul goes on to say that if we come to God in thanksgiving, the peace of God will guard our hearts and minds. When I read this, I immediately think of a wellguarded castle with strong, tall walls surrounding this beautiful structure. I view it as an impenetrable wall. This is the peace of God. When it is at work in our lives, we have the strongest guard in place against doubt, anxiety, fear, stress, and anger. Flaming arrows may fly and the Enemy will attack, but with the peace of God in place, we have a cover. If we let that cover down and begin to be consumed once again with those negative things, our guard is compromised. The Enemy begins to breach our wall and our inner-being is no longer resting in peace. This is why we have to be intentional about time with God, time with fellow believers, and renewal of our mind. When we can change how we think, we can change how we go through things in our lives. Declaring God's truth into our situation changes how we view it. Don't give in to the lies of the Enemy. Speak God's truth and walk in His peace.
Rhiannon Skeen is a recent Lee University graduate, a wife, a new mother, and the creator/administrator of www.whatsoeverislovelyliving.com. She and her husband are in full-time ministry with Global Apostolic Revival Network (www.GARN.tv). They are passionate about spreading the love of God and seeing heaven invade earth.
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EOE
Gò0dNews for Health & Fitness
Playground Workouts Try these creative workouts with your children at the park.
S
by Lindsey Cooke
chool is back in session, and we all know that means
you tell your kids not to climb up the slide, but you may
shorter time to squeeze in all those things we need to
change your mind with this workout. Place your hands
accomplish. It typically means that our workouts are
on the side of the slide and shuffle up the slide without
the first thing that gets left out of our routine. But what if I told you there was a way to keep those workouts and make your kids happy at the same time? We all take our kids to the park, so why not utilize that
bending your knees. • Bench jumps: Similar to box jumps, jump from the ground to the bench with both feet. • Kid squats: That’s right. Grab your kid and use him or
time to get as tired as your kids? With so many options, I can
her as the weight for your squats! They see you living a
almost promise you that you will not get bored!
healthier life, so why not make them a part of it
Here are some ideas.
• Swings: Bring a towel or mat for this one. Place your
• Monkey bars: Just like when you were a kid, the monkey
feet in the swing, and walk out with your hands. Your
bars are a test of strength. You can go across them, use
shoulders should be shoulder-width apart. Next, draw
them for pull-ups, and you can even use them for some
your legs into your chest and then extend them back to
good abs workouts!
starting position. Still using the swing, lie on your back
• Benches: They aren’t just for sitting anymore! Use them
with your feet in the swing. Lift your hips up and curl
as a base for your push-ups and triceps dips.
your legs toward your chest; extend your back out, and
(Don’t worry, we will come back to the
lie down.
bench!)
These are just a few of the options that a park offers! Don’t
• Slide: Do the
forget that you can add sprints, crunches, Russian twists,
slide shuffle! If
and many more! “The Lord is my strength and my shield;
you’re like me,
my heart trusted in Him, and I am helped” (Ps. 28:7 NIV).
24 // October 2015
Lindsey Cooke is the administrative assistant for Cooke's Food Store & Pharmacy.
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Gò0dNews for Teens
God’s Grace Is Sufficient
G
Whenever you’re struggling with that “thorn” in your side, be reminded that God’s grace is there. by Fernando Alejandro
race is something that most people desire to
grace to you and to all. However, when you began to
have and think they deserve. It is one of these
take advantage of that grace and allow your flesh to
concepts that during your teen years you don’t
consume you, and you’re not trying to live a Spirit-
understand or may take advantage of because your
filled life, then how can God offer grace to a lukewarm
parents offer so much of it. But there comes a time when
heart? You have to realize that God wants you to obtain
your parents, friends, or teachers may not offer grace
this gift of grace, but He also wants you to live for Him
to you when you need it the most. The consequences
whole heartily. We all know that mistakes will happen,
of your actions have caught up with you, and the only
and God will forgive you, but you must make an effort
thing you can do now is to accept the punishment that
to live a life that is striving to live for Christ.
is on the way. However, the typical teens tries to have
The concept of grace is something that many of us
the last word as they utter, “Jesus knows how to forgive;
have difficulty in understanding. It’s something that
why can’t you?” That may be true, but Jesus also knows
we don’t deserve, but it’s also freely given to us even
that grace is given to those who are truly sorry for their
though we have a sinful nature. We may have an issue
actions and not trying to take advantage of the system.
in our lives of a “thorn” that is constantly there, even
God’s grace is freely given to all. Regardless of your past circumstances or failures, God offers
after years of praying for it to go away. Paul dealt with this same problem in 2 Corinthians 12:7-10. He had prayed three times for this thorn to be removed from his flesh, but according to Scripture, it never was removed. But God tells Paul something very interesting in verse 9: “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness” (NIV). In Paul’s weakest moments, when the thorn seems too hard to overcome, he must remember that God’s grace is sufficient and God’s power is perfected in that moment. Whenever you’re in trouble, having to struggle with that thorn in your side or you’re just tired from the cycles of life, be reminded that God’s grace is there. He will be your power in that time of weakness, and He will protect you. But you must strive not to be controlled by that thorn in your side, but allow God to remind you of His grace while having the thorn in your side.
26 // October 2015
Fernando Alejandro graduated from Lee University with a Youth Ministry B.S. degree. He is originally from Florida and was called into youth ministry at age 15 during a youth camp in 2008. He currently serves as an intern at The Element Student Ministry of Westmore Church of God and is the office administrator for GoodNews.
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Gò0dNews for Seniors
It’s All in Your Head!
“We can complain because rose bushes have thorns, or we can rejoice that thorn bushes have roses!”—Abraham Lincoln
H
by Karen Brummer
ave you ever been told, “It’s all in your head?” Sometimes we are disappointed and incensed when we hear those words as it implies we aren’t ill when we genuinely have symptoms. But there is a larger truth: it is all in your head! How so? There is an adage that says, “Whether you think you can or whether you think you can’t, you’re right,” meaning our belief makes it so. If we believe we can do something, we are more apt to make an honest attempt at it; whereas, if we believe we can’t, we’re likely to make little or no effort. Have you found this to be true in your life? Have you ever encouraged a child to believe in him/herself? If so, why? Likely because you knew it was imperative to achieving more in life and gaining more confidence. Could the same be true for adults? Happiness works the same way. I have a plaque at home that reads, “Happiness is a choice,” and I believe
that is absolutely true. It truly is not what happens to us, but how we respond to what happens to us that determines our happiness. What we think. What’s in our head! I personally know several people who have had tragedies in their lives, yet they are happy. Were they devastated by those tragedies? Of course! Great sorrow is a normal reaction to tragedy of any kind, but to continue living in that emotion while disregarding all the other good and wonderful things in life is an even greater tragedy. And that can happen by making the choice to focus on the negatives rather than the positives in life. Happy people have painful experiences and memories, but they focus only on the happier parts of life. And happy people attract happy people! A popular tune from 1944 reminds us: “Jonah in the whale, Noah in the ark, what did they do just when everything looked so dark? They said we better ac-centu-ate the positive, e-lim-in-ate the negative, latch on to the affirmative, but don’t mess with Mr. In-between. “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things” (see Phil. 4:8 NIV). Are you thinking on these things, or are you dwelling on the myriad of negatives constantly hawked on the news programs? For seniors considering entering a senior living community, the prospect can be frightening, but this doesn’t have to be the case. We can make the choice of happiness! We can consider it a frightening experience or an exciting opportunitya loss of independence or new freedom from burdens! Just ask any resident of The Terrace at Mountain Creek! They will be happy to tell you the fear was all in my head!
28 // October 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
Here or There Jesus is the Resurrection and the life. by Terri Whiteside
O
n August 7, 2015, I received a phone call from
know that whatever You ask of God, God will give You”
a physician in Michigan informing me that my
(vv. 21-22 NKJV).
only living grandmother had lung cancer. My
Mary had the same thoughts, but she knew Jesus
stomach dropped as I tried to keep it together while he
also loved Lazarus. When she saw Jesus, she also fell
continued to talk. The family decided at that time that
down at His feet and said, “Lord, if You had been here,
chemotherapy or radiation would be very stressful on
my brother would not have died” (v. 32). When Jesus
her already frail body.
saw her weeping, He groaned in His spirit and was
As I was telling my husband, tears begin to roll down my cheeks. I was still trying to be strong, but
troubled, and Jesus wept. Before that encounter with Mary, Jesus said, “I am
inside I was asking God why and why now, especially
the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me,
with her being so far away. I mentioned to my husband
though he dies, and whoever lives and believes in me
about my feelings. I did not want her to die, but neither
will never die. Do you believe this?” (vv. 25-26 NIV).
did I want her to be in any pain. He explained to me
Jesus then went to the tomb of Lazarus with Mary,
how the world has made us feel sad, but why would we
Martha, and the other mourners. Then He asked them
want our love ones to stay here in this world full of sin,
to remove the stone that covered the burial place.
knowing that they would be better off with Jesus?
Jesus prayed to His Father, closing with these words,
It really made me think about how Jesus handled
“Lazarus, come out?” (v. 43). When Lazarus came out
the death of someone close to Him. This took me to
of the tomb, Jesus told the people to remove his grave
the story of Lazarus. Lazarus and his two sisters, Mary
clothes. As a result of this incredible miracle, many
and Martha, were friends of Jesus. When Lazarus fell
people put their faith in Jesus.
ill, his sisters sent a message to Jesus, "Lord, the one
This story and scripture gives me assurance that
you love is sick" (John 11:3 NIV). When Jesus heard the
when death does come, it’s okay to be sad. At the same
news, he waited two more days before going to Lazarus'
time, it’s a true celebration when your loved one was a
hometown of Bethany. Jesus knew that he would do a
believer, because Jesus is the life, and the loved one will
great miracle. As soon as Martha heard that Jesus was
live forever with Him.
coming, she met Him and said, “Lord, if You had been here, my brother would not have died. But even now I
30 // October 2015
Terri Whiteside was born in Chattanooga. After graduating, she joined the U.S. Army and has been a nurse for sixteen years. She has been married to Chris Whiteside for seventeen years and has six children and three grandboys. She attends Hamilton Life Church, where she is the nursery coordinator.
423.336.3841 » 8466 Hiwassee St. NE » Charleston, TN
Gò0dNews for Couples
The Power of Words
“Gracious words are like honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body” (Proverbs 16:24 NKJV). by Beth Houle
W
e’ve all heard the statement: “Sticks and
intentionally cause harm to someone with our words.
stones may break my bones but words
So how do we prevent this? I tell my clients to think
will never hurt me.” I think many of us
of themselves as a mirror when they are talking with
wish it were this easy.
or about someone else. When you look in a mirror you
Words hold power. They create meaning from
see a visual image of yourself. When we hear others
situations, label circumstances, provide safety in a
words, we derive meaning from those words and our
relationship, or can destroy a relationship. Words are
mental mirror becomes distorted. What image is the
given their power by the way they are used, and we
person you are speaking to see through your words?
are the only ones who can control what words we
This is easiest to see in a parent/child dynamic. When
choose to use.
a toddler looks up wide-eyed to his screaming parent,
It can be really challenging to be constantly
he begins framing meanings about himself through
aware of our words. Sometimes we wonder if it is
his parent’s words. He begins to believe he’s a failure,
worth it. We get frustrated that we are asked to be
he’s annoying, bothersome, or worthless. He views
sensitive or expected to be politically correct. We are
himself through these words and the words become
drawn to what we perceive as truth about people or
his identity that he may carry for a lifetime.
circumstances and are eager to right what we believe to be wrong.
This is true even with adults. And the closer the relationship you have, the more influence you have
I meet with a lot of hurting people on a weekly
over their identity and self-worth. Research tells us
basis. Many of which who have lifelong scars from
that it takes five positive statements to counteract
someone who has used words carelessly. Almost
every negative statement we speak to an individual.
always, the people who have caused the most
This is true even when our negative statement is done
damage with their words remain unaware of the wounds they caused or are
damage we do when those criticisms and contempt eek out! Use your words wisely. Speak life into a broken
causing. Most
individual. Speak life into your home. Words can heal,
of us do not
and words can destroy. It’s not easy, but we can better
want to
32 // October 2015
in a productive, caring, and loving way. Imagine the
our homes and our world by being aware of our words.
Beth Houle, MS MFTI is a master’s-level marriage and family therapist in Cleveland, TN. She focuses her work in treating couples, families, and individuals with relational issues or difficulties through her private practice. More information can be found at healingbonds.com.
3330 Keith Street • Cleveland, TN 423.458.1571
Tues - Fri 10:30am to 6:30pm Saturday 11am to 5pm
Gò0dNews for Service
You Can’t Sleep Your Life Away Join me in celebrating the Creator’s gift of morning! by William Lamb
I
love mornings. There's something about being awake
Redeem the time. Time is constant. You can count on it.
before the sunrise where you can see beautiful skylines
Each 24 hours the Creator opens a brand new day for you
crafted by our Creator. Such visuals can reflect the
to use as you wish. If you don’t feel fulfilled or that you
writings of David in the Book of Psalm: "The whole earth
can complete the tasks at hand; wake up early and give this
is filled with awe at your wonders; where morning dawns,
morning stuff a try.
where evening fades, you call forth songs of joy" (65:8 NIV). My exposure to early mornings began by hearing my
Achieve more. I don't believe that being busy for the sake of busyness is wise. I understand how long to-do lists turn into unrealistic expectations, which result in packed
dad pray loudly when I was a child. Then, at 14 years old, I
schedules. I also know the feeling of never being finished.
had my first paper route, and we all know how much those
This alone is one reason worthy of rising early to redeem
reader types want their Sunday paper delivered before the
the time. I call it “magic” hours. Find those times of the day
sun illuminates the darkness. When I joined the United
that are less crowded and not yet tainted by clutter so you
States Marine Corps, waking up early in the morning
can set your day in order—but always start by focusing on
was no longer an option but a mandate. These morning
the Almighty (that’s the word my friend Dusty uses when
exposures stuck, and, on most days, I am up before the
he talks about God).
sunrise. Those who know me and those who hear me can attest
Establish a routine. Strategist suggests that it takes twenty-one days to establish a habit and I add—a day to
that in the early morning hours, I often enthusiastically
break it. Each of us has areas of our lives that are the result
announce. "Wake up world; you can't sleep your life away."
of learned behavior. Maybe you already have the routine
Ken, one of my church camp friends always responded,
of early mornings. If so, teach the principle to others. But
"That's because you won't let us sleep." I think Ken and
maybe you don’t know the advantage of waking before the
hundreds of others over the years are beginning to catch
sun peeks through the night. If that’s you, then take my
this gift of rising early in the morning.
challenge and start tomorrow. Some day you will be glad
Again, we see that David understood the benefit of early morning encounters with Jehovah. David wrote:
you did. When writing this article I realized that not every
"From the rising of the sun to the place where it sets, the
person holds my same opinion regarding mornings. In fact,
name of the Lord is to be praised" (113:3 NLT).
I have friends who disagree completely. That’s okay. I will
I realize that some people can't do mornings. Perhaps it's their work schedule; for others it's health concerns, and some just can’t get up early. Usually it seems to be a matter of choice. My hope is that you will understand these three points and enjoy some mornings with you and God.
34 // October 2015
keep posting pictures of the sunrise so they can vicariously celebrate the Creator’s gift of morning. Dr. William Lamb is a member of the administrative staff at Lee University (Cleveland, Tennessee) where he leads a diverse and global “service-learning” program for college students. He is a veteran of the United States Marine Corps. William and his wife Angela, along with their children Tyler and Megan, Nick, and Ben, reside in Cleveland, TN.
Dear Mom and Dad,
It’s not too late to chase your dreams. Love, Your kids
FINISH YOUR
RACE
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Bill Stafford
Doug Janeway
Please join us in welcoming our newest agents, Bill Stafford and Doug Janeway. Call 423.875.0949 or visit gossinsurance.com