Gò0dNews August 2017
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CLEVELAND
• Pain to Purpose... p.14 • The Plumb Line p.36 • The Blessings of Job p.54
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About Us
Writers
Andrew Lee Beth Henderson Bertha Blair Charles Laws Christina Edwards Debbie Pease Deanna Key Don Smith Esmerelda Lee Dr. James White Jade Morgan Jason Barnes Jerra Barker Jessica Oliver John Garrod Judi Marvin Kelly McDonald Jr. Kregg Ware Melissa Phillips Sam Blankenship Sashual Thomas
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Hello Friends, We want to take a moment to tell you who we are and what we are about. Our names are Matt and Bethany Ruckman and we have four beautiful children, Brendon, Kailey, Andrew, and Leah Jean. We live in Cleveland and love what this town has to offer! We have started GoodNews Christian Magazine because we feel that when God, family, and community are combined, lives will be changed. GoodNews Christian Magazine is a complimentary, Christian lifestyle publication. You can find us throughout the community in retail establishments, churches, restaurants, and more. Our magazine opens the door for Christians to work together to grow and strengthen our community through relevant editorial and effective advertising. GoodNews Christian Magazine is written by men and women in the community who love and serve the Lord. Our hearts are open and willing to be used by God to reach out to the community to spread the GoodNews!
Letter from the Editor
A
long U.S. Highway 64 in the scenic forest of Southeast Tennessee, the Ocoee River has cut a steep, winding channel into a mountainside of hard rock. People come from all over the nation to experience the thrills and spills of rafting the Ocoee. The articles in the August issue have much in common with a river trip. We usually climb into the boat when the river is pleasant and calm, and we have confidence that we’ll reach our destination sooner or later. We are unaware that just around the bend may be an adversity that threatens to capsize our boat and leave us stranded on the rocks. These trouble spots along the river of life may take the form of heartbreak from a lifethreatening illness, a troubled marriage, rebellious teenagers, or the treacherous whirlpool of financial woes. Any one of these adversities could pull us under to defeat. Even if we stay afloat, our mental serenity and balance seem all but impossible. If we’re not careful, these emotional rapids can also drown out the still, small voice of God speaking to us. From the time we are born, you and I negotiate the course of this river with its rapids of adversity and confusing currents. We do not ask to be born. We don’t choose our parents, our siblings, our ethnic heritage, our social or economic status. So we ride the river, guided by the hand of God, even when we don’t know He is there. Often we feel isolated in this frightening experience questioning, Why me? Sometimes we believe that we should escape these problems and difficult transitions because we are Christians. When the captive people of Judah cried out against the trials of life in their strange land, the prophet Jeremiah sent them a message from God: “For I know the plans I have for you . . . plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future (29:11 NIV). I believe this message is a watchword for our lives for now. God will give us the power and the strength to stay in the boat and go on downstream, but He never expects us to navigate it alone. Through every adversity, He supplies a “raft of grace” to carry us over the rapids and around each new bend in the stream. Take time to gear up for new challenges, to unfold new horizons, to realize new dreams, and to rediscover God’s strength and faith for a truly fulfilling summer.
Disclaimer All of the content in the GoodNews Christian Magazine is for general information and/or use. Such contents does not constitute advice and should not be relied upon in making (or refraining from making) a decision. Any specific advice or replies to queries in any part of the magazine is the personal opinion of such experts/consultants/persons and is not subscribed to by GoodNews Christian Magazine. The information in GoodNews Christian Magazine is provided on an “AS IS” basis, and all warranties, expressed or implied of any kind, regarding any matter pertaining to any information, advice or replies are disclaimed and excluded. We reserve the right to refuse any advertisement or article we deem inappropriate.
Contents 12
GoodNews from the Pastor’s Desk
6 Decisions, Decisions by Jason Barnes
GoodNews for Kids
8
28
GoodNews for Teens
26 Teens: Struggles and
Pizza by Deanna Key
by Bertha Blair
GoodNews for Everyone
by Andrew Lee GoodNews for Men
12 Hearing God’s Voice in Today’s World by Kregg Ware
GoodNews for Women
14 Pain to Purpose... by Melissa Phillips GoodNews for Parents
20 Children—Molded by God by Charles Laws GoodNews for Life
22 Life-Affiring Decisions by Jessica Oliver
28 An Ambassador for Christ 30 Why Were You Born? by Kelly McDonald, Jr. GoodNews for Couples
32 What Is Normal?
GoodNews from the Physician’s Desk
44 Making Communities Healthier by Debbie Pease GoodNews for Everyone
46 The Sweet, Intimate Word of the Lord
by Don Smith
by Judi Marvin
GoodNews for Seniors
GoodNews for Everyone
Retirement
GoodNews for Everyone
34 Reinventing Yourself after 48 Mt. Olive Ministries by Esmerelda Lee
GoodNews for Everyone
36 The Plumb Line by Jade Morgan
GoodNews for Women’s Health
38 What can Happen if I don’t get my Varicose veins treated?
GoodNews for Health & Fitness
by Dr. James White GoodNews for Everyone
by Christina Edwards
by Jerra Barker
24 People-Watching
42 Grandmother’s Spaghetti
by Sam Blankenship GoodNews Cover Story
10 “How to Blow $650 Million”
GoodNews for your Taste Buds
Issues
The Alphabet and You—My Superheroes
GoodNews on Money Matters
46
40 Never Say Never (Part 1)
50 Which Name Do You Go By? By Sashual Thomas GoodNews for Everyone
52 A Sad Misunderstanding by Beth Henderson GoodNews for Everyone
54 The Blessings of Job by John Garrod
Gò0dNews from the Pastor’s Desk
T
Decisions, Decisions by Jason Barnes
he passage of scripture from Acts 9:1-19 tells the story
“Lord,” Ananias answered, “I have heard many
of how the Lord called Saul (Paul), on his way to
reports about this man and all the harm he has done to
Damascus.
your holy people in Jerusalem. And he has come here
Meanwhile, Saul was still breathing out murderous
threats against the Lord’s disciples. He went to the high priest and asked him for letters to the synagogues in
with authority from the chief priests to arrest all who call on your name.” But the Lord said to Ananias, “Go! This man is my
Damascus, so that if he found any there who belonged
chosen instrument to proclaim my name to the Gentiles
to the Way, whether men or women, he might take them
and their kings and to the people of Israel.
as prisoners to Jerusalem. As he neared Damascus on
I will show him how much he must suffer for my name.”
his journey, suddenly
Then Ananias went to
a light from heaven flashed around him.
the house and entered it.
He fell to the ground
Placing his hands on Saul,
and heard a voice say
he said, ‘Brother Saul, the
to him, ‘Saul, Saul, why
Lord—Jesus, who appeared
do you persecute me?’
to you on the road as you were coming here—has
“Who are you,
sent me so that you may see
Lord?” Saul asked.
again and be filled with the
“I am Jesus, whom you are
Holy Spirit.’ Immediately,
persecuting,” he
something like scales fell
replied. “Now get up
from Saul’s eyes, and he
and go into the city,
could see again. He got
and you will be told
up and was baptized, and
what you must do.”
after taking some food, he regained his strength (NIV).
The men traveling
God’s Holy Word
with Saul stood there
teaches that the choices
speechless; they heard the sound but did not see anyone. Saul got up from
we make not only affect our life but everyone's around us.
the ground, but when he opened his eyes he could see
We have a decision to make to listen to the voice of truth. If
nothing. So they led him by the hand into Damascus.
we decide to listen to God, even the rough road becomes a
For three days he was blind, and did not eat or drink
blessing in the end. "In God’s time . . . " He will make our
anything.
"crooked, evil" road "straight, and anointed" for His glory!
In Damascus there was a disciple named Ananias. The Lord called to him in a vision, ‘Ananias!’
Decide today to submit to Him, fully, and what a blessed life you will live!
“Yes, Lord,” he answered. The Lord told him, ‘Go to the house of Judas on Straight Street and ask for a man from Tarsus named Saul, for he is praying. In a vision he has seen a man named Ananias come and place his hands on him to restore his sight.’
6 // August 2017
Jason Barnes is the pastor at Philadelphia Missionary Baptist Church in Cleveland, TN. He has been preaching since 2005 and has been in pastoral ministry since then as a youth pastor for six years and a lead pastor for almost six years. He has a beautiful wife of 24 years and a beautiful daughter that God has blessed them with that is 16yrs old. If you’re looking for a friendly church, we are a loving and compassionate people who believe and preach Jesus Christ and him crucified! We don't see a dead God for he is alive and well, sitting at the right hand of the Father making intercession for all if us. God bless you and keep you us our prayer. Psalms 91.
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Gò0dNews for Kids The Alphabet and You—My Superheroes
S
All letters are different on purpose, like you. by Bertha Blair
uperheroes come in different
What came to mind as you belted
P=Peaceful
shapes, sizes, and colors. We
out the letters in the song? Did you think
Q=Qualified
have Batman, Superman, Wonder
of sounds, words, objects? Maybe you
R=Responsible
Woman, and Captain America, just to
just enjoyed singing because you knew
S=Sensitive
name a few. These heroes have their
all the letters, and you were focused on
T=Truth
own special gifts, combine with a power
not skipping any because they are all
U=Uplifting
that they use for good.
equally important. As you prepare to
V=Valuable
go back to school (which I call God’s
W=Worthy
heroes. The first song we learn, as we
mission field), know that just like every
X=Xenial
embark on our education adventure is
letter is important in the song, you are
Y=Youthful
the ABC alphabet song, so obviously
important to the school. You may not
Z=Zestful
they play an important role. I want you
look, talk, sound, walk or dress like ev-
to take a deep breath and think back
eryone, and that’s okay, because you are
to when you first learned your ABC’s,
fearfully and wonderfully made, clothed
but those differences make you who
you didn’t say them did you? No,
in your one of a kind superhero attire,
you are. You were not meant to fit in;
you sang them. I think we should sing
equipped with purpose and power.
you’ve been called to stand out. You will
I think the ABC’s should be Super-
them together right now; ready, get set,
I know you want to carry a sword
You may be faced with differences,
do exceedingly and abundantly greater
sing “ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTU-
and that’s cool, you can because you
than what people expect. Remember the
VWXYZ” now I know my ABC’s next
were chosen to. So the sword is all yours
alphabet they share have many differ-
time won’t you sing with me?
but you also get to wear an armor belt,
ences, but it’s those differences when
breastplate, shield, and helmet. You car-
blended together that creates a sound,
ry within you the classroom key to the
and those sounds create words, and
Kingdom. So as you go throughout your
those words create sentences. What
day, remember who you are, take the
will you create with all your superhe-
letters of the alphabet, and attach them
roes abilities that lie within you? In the
to words so they can be the superheroes
words of Dr. Seuss: “Today you are You,
that motivate and empower you daily.
that is truer than true. There is no one alive who is Youer than You.” Be You
A=Attitude (attitude determines altitude)
on purpose, and just like the letters of the alphabet are original superheroes,
B=Brave
so are you. You’re a part of God’s win-
C=Confidence
ning team that He’s clothed in passion,
D=Determination
gifted with purpose, and equipped with
E=Encouraged
power. Thanks for being a superhero for
F=Fearless
the Kingdom and on God’s team. We
G=Great
always win!
H=Happy I=Instinctive J=Joyous K=Kind L=Loving M=Motivated N=Nice O=Obedient
8 // August 2017
Bertha Blair has taught in the Cleveland City School System for 10 years. She is currently pursuing a M.S. degree at Lee University in psychology. She loves God and loves people.
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“How to Blow $650 Million” MONEY MATTERS WITH DR. ANDREW LEE Dr. Andrew Lee is professor of English at Lee University. He also serves as a coordinator for Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University. He and his wife Esmerelda have three children.
B
y now you may have read that actor Johnny Depp is allegedly “broke.” Though he has earned over $650 million dollars thus far in his acting career, he spent the money faster than he could earn it. He is now suing his financial managers, claiming they should have somehow saved him from his own extravagant spending. For their part, the financial managers are counter-suing Depp, claiming they tried everything in their power to make him reign in his spending, but he never listened to them. How do you blow through $650 million dollars? Here’s how: Depp bought a chain of islands in the Bahamas as well as bought an entire village in France, also a 150-foot yacht, and at least forty-five luxury vehicles. In addition, he spent thirty thousand dollars per month on wines, plus untold millions on collections of art and Hollywood memorabilia, as well as keeping a staff of forty fulltime employees. When his spending outstripped his earnings, he took out loans to continue his extravagance rather than cutting back his spending. In addition, he chose his sister as his personal manager, and she loaned herself seven million dollars of her brother’s money without telling him. (If you’re reading closely, there’s a cautionary tale here about not mixing family and business as a general rule). Altogether, Depp was blowing over two million dollars per month; that’s sixty-six thousand dollars per day (and remember he’s asleep during some of those hours). No matter how much money you earn, there is always a way to spend it faster than you can earn it.
10 // August 2017
I’ve personally known people who earned one million dollars or more annually but who went bankrupt due to spending all of that and much more. As Mr. Micawber from Charles Dickens’ 1850 novel David Copperfield observed, “Annual income twenty pounds, annual expenditure nineteen [pounds] nineteen [shillings] and six [pence], result happiness. Annual income twenty pounds, annual expenditure twenty pounds ought and six, result misery." The difference between happiness and misery, according to Dickens, is the difference between living on less than you earn and spending more than you earn. Johnny Depp apparently suffers from the same mindset as many lottery winners: they quickly spend much of their money (principal) instead of investing the principal and spending only the earnings from that principal. Even at today’s paltry interest rates on CD’s and savings accounts, one percent interest on $200 million dollars is two million dollars per year. Why not live on that and leave the $200 million alone? Proverbs 21:20 advises, “The wise have wealth, but fools spend whatever they get.” Sometimes, the answer to one’s financial crisis really is increasing one’s income, and I’m a firm believer in second jobs or “side hustles” to bring in extra money. But sometimes the answer may be reducing spending, and that takes discipline. God’s Word tells us, “No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it” (Hebrews 12:11).
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Gò0dNews for Men Hearing God’s Voice in Today’s World Having a relationship with God is the ultimate factor in distinguishing whose voice is speaking to you.
T
by Kregg Ware
oday I hear many people ask the question? “Why can't I hear God's voice? How do I know He's talking to me?” There are many people who can't hear the voice of
God. It's not that they choose not to hear or that they don't want to,
Voice 2: Our voice tends to speak out of emotion, which can lead you down the wrong path. Voice 3: The Enemies’ voice is a counterfeit to God’s voice. It tries to mimic the voice and direction of God.
it's probably because they don't have a clear understanding of how
It doesn't have to be a perfect moment to hear God’s voice. God
God operates. My experience has always been that God can choose
can and will speak to you no matter what your situation is. If you're
to speak to anyone, anywhere, at any time, but what God loves the
listening, God’s best work can be done through chaos. Genesis 1:2
most is a relationship with His people. The Hebrew meaning for
says “The earth was without form, and void, and darkness was upon
relationship is Yada, which means "to know."
the face of the deep” (KJV).
The Bible states in John 10:27: “My sheep hear my voice, and I
I love it when God gives His children a trial run, so to speak; a
know them, and they follow me” (NKJV). God wants His people to
small task to hear His voice, meaning when God speaks, He will not
hear, and know Him intimately. The deeper our relationship gets
give you a major task unless He feels you're ready for it. I'm reminded
with the Father, the clearer His voice becomes. For example, when
of a time when I wasn't familiar with hearing God’s voice. I was
a person starts dating, he/she can't expect to kiss on the first date,
hungry, so I went to a restaurant to get something to eat. The moment I
because they don't know one another. After that relationship grows,
walked in the door, I saw a man standing in front of me about to order
so does everything else. It's the same way with the Father. As your
his food. I heard a voice say, “Tell this man that I love him.” I looked
relationship grows, so does our understanding of who God is, and
around to see who was speaking behind me, but no one was there.
how to hear His voice, how it sounds, if He's upset, happy, or sad. God has a unique voice. Revelation 14:2 says, “And I heard a voice from heaven, as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of a great thunder” (KJV). When John
I was nervous, and at that very moment, I had to immediately determine who was speaking to me. Until you recognize the voice of God you must use the process of elimination. Thus, my process of elimination, I knew the
baptized Jesus, the Bible states in Matthew 3:17: “And lo
Enemy would never tell me that “God loves you.”
a voice from heaven, saying, this is my beloved son, in
And I also knew that I would never on my own
whom I am well-pleased” (KJV). In Luke's account, the
tell him anything anyone said because I didn’t
people around heard thunder when God spoke.
know him, and how would he react if I did. So
Although God never changes, I believe the way that He speaks does because God uses conventional ways to speak to His people. For example, God may not
after my process of elimination, I knew that it was God speaking to my inner-man. And in obedience, I did as God instructed. To be able to hear God’s
speak to you through a loud thunder
voice clearly, you must have a
but through an article in a magazine.
relationship with God. Like
God may speak through a billboard
any other relationship, it
or through your pastor. But whatever
requires that you to spend
way God decides to speak, it will be
time in the Word, in prayer, and in God’s presence
a still, small voice. There are three
where you develop the inevitable confidence of
voices that you have to recognize in
knowing the voice of God.
order to determine the voice of God. Voice 1: God’s voice will encourage, uplift, and give direction which will lead you in His will.
12 // August 2017
Minster Kregg Ware is an ordained minister, author, and businessman who has been in ministry for over 15 years. He is the founder of Kregg Ware Ministries which is based in Cleveland, Tennessee. Kregg has been married to his wife Karin for 20 years they have two beautiful children Kaliyah and Kregg Ware Jr.
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Gò0dNews for Women
Pain to Purpose . . . Like a Caterpillar Experiences while Becoming a Butterfly. by Melissa Phillips
I
n my life, I have been through many painful times;
declare the works of the Lord.” In that moment, my
however, not one of those painful times have been
mindset was changed, something shifted in my spirit,
without bringing a greater purpose. When I look back
and where I had been eye level with my situation, it
even over my childhood, I can now see purpose from
was like I moved up a level. My perspective changed,
things I experienced. Women, I am writing to tell you
and because of that the situation, the cancer, the fear,
this: You have a purpose in your life to accomplish. That
the grief, the pain, had to look up to me. This is where I
purpose cannot fully come to pass without submitting
gained understanding that it was not my battle to fight by
yourself fully to God and allowing Him to do
wasting my energy and strength. This was God’s battle to fight. I wasn’t removed
His work through you. It is time to stop
from the trial. I endured three
feeling like you are a victim and
surgeries and one and a half-
rise up and be victorious.
year’s of healing. But God never
In October of 2014
left me; He gave me peace.
after turning forty, I
I spoke God’s Word, which
was diagnosed with
is full of power and life. I
ductal carcinoma in
worshiped Him through
situ breast cancer
the storm, and He brought
with a highly
me through. Women,
aggressive grade
what storm are you in?
that was spread
What do you need
through my entire right breast. The
freedom from? Is it
grief I experienced
fear, grief, sickness,
was unlike any
bondage, or worry? Your answer
pain before. After I
is found
heard the diagnosis, I completely shut down.
in God’s
A voice began to tell me
Word. Find a scripture to relate to your valley.
I was going to die and my
Get it on a note card, speak it out loud,
kids wouldn’t have their mom. My husband immediately contacted our
and declare it. His Word is power and life
pastors, and they began a prayer chain. Me, I went to bed,
to those who find it. Ephesians 3:20 says God is able to
surrounded by darkness, overwhelmed with grief, and
do exceeding, abundantly above all you could ask or
fear. Still sobbing, twenty-four hours later, I got up and
imagine. God will not allow your pain to be wasted. He
wrote out scriptures in the Bible of what I needed and
is now using my pain to show His power and deliver
started to declare the Word of the Lord over me out loud.
others. Think of a caterpillar and the painful process it
After all, isn’t that how God created all things? He spoke
goes through to reach its purpose. Oh, the beauty found
them into existence.
in a butterfly.
That same weekend, I was prayed over at church, and as I lay under the power of God, I heard a man’s voice in my ear say, “You will live and not die and
14 // August 2017
Melissa Phillips is married to her husband Jacen and they have two children, Samuel and Jaxen. She is the article coordinator at GoodNews Christian Magazine. Her heart is to see others transformed by the power of God.
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Cleveland Church Directory
Assembly of God Grace Assembly 1976 Westland Dr SW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-7729 Triune Assembly 301 Sunset Drive Cleveland, TN 37312
Baptist
Beacon Baptist Church 505 Corvin Rd NE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 472-7056 Big Spring Baptist Church 1415 Hardwick St SE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-1101 Bellefounte Baptist Church 132 Bellfounte Rd NE, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 336-2312 Bethel Baptist Tabernacle 3165 Buchanan Rd SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 479-5820 Blue Springs Baptist Church 699 Blue Springs Church Rd SW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-0932F Candies Creek Church 294 Old Eureka Rd Charleston, TN 37310 423-479-3731 candiescreekchurch.com Candies Creek City Church 850 17th St. NW Cleveland, TN 37311 423-458-4405 Cedar Springs Baptist Church 723 Cedar Springs Church Rd SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 479-5506 Center Point Baptist Church 1205 Lower River Rd NW Charleston, TN 37310 (423) 336-2133 Cleveland Cowboy Church 3040 Blythe Rd. Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-7936 or clevelandcowboychurch.com Cloverleaf Baptist Church 2290 Waterlevel Highway Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 339-3617 Clingan Ridge Baptist Church 2412 Georgetown Road, NW Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 472-3511 or www.clinganridgebaptist.com Church At Grace Point 2595 Old Freewill Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 728-5050 or grace-point.com Covenant Baptist Church 249 Calhoun Rd SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 559-2653 Dalton Pike Baptist Church 3055 Benton Pike NE, Cleveland, TN 37323
16 // August 2017
(423) 472-7606 Elkmont Baptist Church 4030 Old Freewill Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 479-4600 Emmanuel Baptist Church 1227 Powerline Dr NE, Cleveland, TN 37323 East Cleveland Baptist Church 1145 Arnold St NE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-8728 Farmland Community Church 1675 Greendale Dr. SE Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 473-9891 First Baptist Church 1275 Stuart Road Cleveland, Tennessee 37312 (423)709-9100 or clevel andfbc.com Galilee Baptist Church 665 Old Chattanooga Pike SW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 496-2019 Henegar Baptist Church 7423 Mouse Creek Rd. Cleveland Tn 37312 Hopewell Baptist Church 188 Old Georgetown Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 479-3763 The Journey Church 1668 S Lee Hwy, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 728-4100 Lebanon Baptist Church 1411 Old Parksville Rd NE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 479-6700 Macedonia Baptist Church 3119 Spring Place Rd SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 479-1713 Maple Street Baptist Church 1700 Maple St NE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 478-3622 Maranatha Baptist Church 453 Blue Springs Ln SE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 614-8991 Michigan Avenue Baptist Church 2741 Benton Pike NE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 472-8891 Mt Carmel Baptist Church 7619 Blue Springs Rd, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 479-1620 New Friendship Baptist Church 1344 Chatata Valley Rd NE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 476-6007 North Cleveland Baptist Church 2815 Ocoee St N, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 476-8524 or northclevelandbaptist.org Oak Grove Baptist Church 4452 Bates Pike SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 479-9125
Old Pathway Baptist Church 224 Rymer Rd NE, Cleveland, TN 37323 Parkway Baptist Church 185 Meadow Ln SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 339-5522 or www.parkwaybaptist.info Philadelphia Baptist Church 910 30th St SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 Philippi Baptist Church 2325 Old Harrison Pike NW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 479-5385 Pleasant Grove Missionary Baptist Church 799 Inman Street East Cleveland, Tennessee 37311 (423) 476-4081 Ridgeview Baptist Church 1501 S Ocoee St, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-5119 Samples Memorial Baptist Church 371 Samples Chapel Rd SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 476-2329 Shenandoah Baptist Church 138 Osment Rd Se, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 339-0103 or www.sbcministries.com Shiloh Baptist Church 3406 Blair Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 479-5755 Stuart Park Baptist Church 850 17th St NW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-6741 Tasso Baptist Church 164 Old Charleston Rd NE, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 559-2114 Temple Baptist Church 3070 Harrison Pike, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-6813 Thompson Spring Baptist Church 5660 Bates Pike SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 790-1823 Union Baptist Church 797 Hughes Lake Rd SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 559-1720 Valley View Baptist Church 4657 Spring Place Rd SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 472-7707 or vvbaptist.org Washington Avenue Baptist Church 1720 Perry St SE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-0489 Waterville Baptist Church 4555 Dalton Pike SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 472-5582 or watervillebaptistchurch.org West Cleveland Baptist Church 1959 Westland Dr SW, Cleveland, TN 37311
(423) 472-8927 Westwood Baptist Church 4001 Georgetown Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 472-1534 or www.westwoodlife.org White Oak Baptist Church 2043 White Oak Valley Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 559-2359
Catholic
St Therese Catholic Church 900 Clingan Ridge Dr NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 476-8123
Charismatic
Cleveland Christian Fellowship 695 S Ocoee St, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-2642 or ccfchurch.us
Church of God
Agape Place Church of God 2611 Blue Springs Road SE Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-8691 Cornerstone Church of God 2823 Lee Hwy, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 478-0006 Church of God Sanctified, Inc. 746 First Street N.E. Cleveland, TN. 37311 (423)479-3895 East Cleveland Church of God 900 15th St NE Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 479-3389 Fellowship of Praise Church of God 931 Inman Street East Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 479-3121 or fellowshipofpraisecog.org Grace Community Church of God 4745 Mouse Creek Road NW, Cleveland, TN 37312. (423) 614-0708 or www.gracecleveland.org Heritage Fellowship Church of God 4635 S Lee Hwy McDonald, TN 37353 (423) 476-6316 International Worship Center Centro Internacional de Adoraciรณn 533 Central Ave. NE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-1977 or www.iwcchurch.com Kinser Church of God 141 Kinser Road Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 476-7400 Lakeview Church of God 105 Pound Street S.E. Cleveland, TN 37323 (423)-790-5805 or lakeviewcog.org North Cleveland Church of God 335 11th St NE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-5513 or nccog.org
Michigan Avenue Church of God 515 Minnis Road N.E (423) 584-3663 Mt Olive Church of God 3522 Harrison Pike, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 479-3381 Mt View Church of God 210 Roadway Dr SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (706) 455-3528 South Cleveland Church of God 1846 Volunteer Dr SW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-6382 or southcleveland.org Westmore Church of God 2412 Wolfe Dr NW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 559-9646 or www.westmorecog.org
Church of God of Prophecy Cleveland Spanish COGOP 2610 Grove Ave. Cleveland, TN 37312 (423)473-7199 Durkee Road COGOP 201Durkee Rd. Cleveland, TN37312 (423) 472-4384 Keith Street Ministries COGOP 4000 Keith ST. NW Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 476-2448 Peerless Road COGOP 3301 Peerless Rd. NW Cleveland, TN 37312 (423)303-2680 Spring Place COGOP 2530 Spring Place Rd. Cleveland, TN37311 (423)476-6414 Union Grove COGOP 533 Union Grove Rd Charleston, TN 37310 (423) 479-5357 Wildwood COGOP 140 Wildwood Ave Cleveland, TN 37311 (423)479-6584
Disciples of Christ
First Christian Church 3925 N. Ocoee Street Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 472-6682
Episcopal Saint Luke’s Episcopal Church 320 Broad St NW, Cleveland, TN 37311
Lutheran
First Lutheran Church 195 McIntire Ave NE, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 472-6811
Latter-day Saints The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 4200 Pryor Rd N.E. Cleveland, TN 37312 423-503-6394
Methodist Big Spring United Methodist 1196 Hardwick St SE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-5242 Black Fox United Methodist 1820 Old Chattanooga Pike SW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 339-1908 Broad Street United Methodist 155 Central Ave NW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-5586 First United Methodist Church 3425 Ocoee St N, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 476-4504 S. Cleveland United Methodist 1165 Church St SE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 507-5760 Tasso United Methodist 1106 Tasso Ln NE, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 479-4457 Trinity United Methodist Church 731 1st St SE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 614-7900 Valley Head Methodist Church 920 Mouse Creek Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 472-0575 Wesley Memorial Methodist 3405 Peerless Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 472-9578
Pentecostal
Faith Memorial Church 910 17th St NW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-6281 First United Pentecostal Church 4095 Peerless Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 476-9436 Full Gospel House of Prayer 1500 Wildwood Ave. Cleveland, TN Set Free Christian Fellowship 1175 King Edwards Ave. Cleveland, TN
Nazarene Cleveland First Church Of The Nazarene 2712 Henderson Ave. Cleveland, TN 37312-5225 423-472-7371 New Hope Church of the Nazarene 2018 Washington Ave Cleveland, TN 37364 (423)479-7343
Non-Denominational Christian Fellowship Ctr 895 6th St NE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 479-9591 Church Alive Ministries Cleveland, TN 37353 (423) 559-1371 Cleveland Community Chapel 1823 Forest Ridge Dr. Cleveland, TN 37311
Cleveland Cornerstone Church 533 Broad St NW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 479-1775 Cornerstone Family Church 4997 N. Lee Highway Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 380-9160 cfctn.net Community Hall Church 1305 6th Street Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472 2178 Dwelling Place Church 523 Urbane Rd. NE Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 790-5200 DPCI.TV Evening Light Gospel 200 20th St SE Cleveland, TN 37311 Freedom Fellowship Church 3555 Blue Springs Rd, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 478-0654 God’s Family Fellowship 197 Neely Circle NE Cleveland, TN 37312 Phone (423) 790-7533 www.godsfamilyfellowship.net Graceway Chapel 221 14th St NW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 728-2226 International House of Fire 1701 South Lee Hwy Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 790-0772 Living Word Church 930 25th Street, NW Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 339-3028 or thelovingchurch.com The Net Church Bradley Square 12 200 Paul Huff Pkwy Cleveland, TN 37312 Norvel Hayes Ministries 155 S Ocoee St, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-3882 Restoration Fellowship 211 Trewhitt Dr SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 479-4249 The Simple Gospel 850 Elrod St SE Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 650-9572 www.pointing2jesus.com Shema Israel Ministry 850 Elrod St SE Cleveland, TN 37311 423-994-8553 Tasso Christian Church 1135 Tasso Lane, Cleveland, Tn. 37312 (423) 479-2705 The Sanctuary 1203 Smith Dr. Cleveland, TN 37311 (423)478-2843 / shreveministries.org United Christian Church 2200 Peerless Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 479-4277 Unity Christian Ministries
2419 Georgetown RD NW 37312 423-473-9338 Walker Valley Community 787 Lauderdale Memorial Hwy Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 336-9696
Presbyterian
Charleston Cumberland Presbyterian Church 8267 N Lee Hwy, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 336-5004 First Cumberland Presbyterian 161 2nd St NE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-6751 First Presbyterian Church 433 N Ocoee St, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-5584 Flint Springs Cumberland Presbyterian Church 515 Flint Springs Rd Cleveland TN. 37323 423-284-6397 or Facebook Prospect United Cumberland Presbyterian Church 310 New Murraytown Rd., NW Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 476-6181 St James Cumberland Presbyterian 151 Short St NE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-5762 Trinity Presbyterian PCA 1780 Stuart Rd NE, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 559-9595
Seventh Day Adventist
Ladd Springs Seventh-Day 5860 Bates Pike SE Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 476-1889 Bowman Hills Adventist 300 Westview Dr NE Cleveland, TN 37312 East Cleveland Seventh-Day 801 Howard Circle SE Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-9299
Zion Assembly
Zion Assembly Church of God 5512 Waterlevel Hwy, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 476-3337 or zionassemblychurchofgod.com
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Athens Church Directory
Assembly of God
Abundant Blessing 2613 Cardinal St Athens, TN 37303 423-435-5867
Baptist
Antioch Baptist Church 218 Canal St. Athens, TN 37303 423-745-3332 Central Baptist 13 Nash Dr. Athens, TN 37303 423-745-0400 Clearwater Baptist 964 County Rd. Athens, TN 37303 423-744-7147 Covenant Baptist 241 County Rd Athens, TN 37303 423-263-1569 East Athens Baptist 301 Central Ave Athens, TN 37303 423-745-1394 Fairview Baptist 251 County Rd. 128 Athens, TN 37303 423-649-0346 First Baptist 305 Ingleside Athens, TN 37303 423-745-5441 First Bible Baptist 1819 Old Niota Athens, TN 37303 423-745-0765 Freedom Baptist 2207 Velma Rd Athens, TN 37303 423-746-0193 Mount Pleasant Baptist 414 Chester St. Athens, TN 37303 423-745-6510 Idelwild Baptist 118 county rd Athens, TN 37303 423-746-0002 Lakeview Baptist 182 County rd. 126 Athens, TN 37303 423-745-0451 Mount Pleasant Baptist 414 Chester St. Athens, TN 37303 423-745-6510 Mount Verd Baptist 251 County Rd 249 Athens, TN 37303 423-507-1286 New Hopewell Baptist 197 County Rd Athens, TN 37303 423-744-0940
18 // August 2017
New Zion Baptist 393 County Rd 616 Athens, TN 37303 423-263-9841 North Athens Baptist 402 Tellico Ave Athens, TN 37303 423-745-3813 Oak Grove Baptist 1212 County Rd. 100 Athens, TN 37303 423-744-9986 Parkway Baptist 1701 Velma Rd Athens, TN 37303 423-745-9709 Rocky Mount Baptist 1002 Rocky Mount Rd Athens, TN 37303 423-745-8758 Rogers Creek Baptist 510 County Rd 180 Athens, TN 37303 423-744-0295 Short Creek Baptist 892 County Rd. 50 Athens, TN 37303 423-336-5089 South Liberty Baptist 505 County Rd 655 Athens, TN 37303 423-745-5124 Union Hill Baptist 258 County Rd Athens, TN 37303 423-745-1241 Unity Baptist 162 County Rd 750 Athens, TN 37303 423-744-0420 Valley View Baptist 323 County Rd 370 Athens, TN 37303 423-745-5159 West End Baptist 803 Clark St. Athens, TN 37303 423-744-8274 West View Baptist 2707 Highway 39 Athens, TN 37303 423-745-2193
Catholic St. Mary Catholic Church 1291 E. Madison Ave. Athens, TN 37303 423-745-4277
Christian
Athens Christian Church 802 S Matlock Ave Athens, TN 37303 423-745-5791
Church of God
Aoh Church Of God 501 Ohio St
Athens, TN 37303 423-745-1279 First Church of God 200 Fisher St. Athens, TN 37303 423-887-5855 Woodward Church of God 507 Woodward Ave Athens, TN 37303 423-745-1618
Community
Christ Community Church 14 Congress PRKY S. Athens, TN 37303 423-745-8185
Latter-day Saints
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormons) 508 Cedar Springs Rd Athens, TN 373 423-745-0102
Nazarene
Athens Church of the Nazarene 1908 W. Madison Ave. Athens, TN 37303 423-744-3017
Episcopal
St Paul Episcopal Church 123 S. Jackson ST. Athens, TN 37303 423-745-2224
Lutheran
Athens Lutheran Church 710 Forrest Ave. Athens, TN 37303 423-745-9419
Methodist
Allen Memorial UMC 800 Decatur Pike Athens, TN 37303 423-745-1560 Keith Memorial UMC 600 W Madison Ave. Athens, TN 37371 423-745-2612 Piney Grove UMC 767 County Rd. 750 423-462-2130 Athens, TN 37303 Riceville 2519 Cindy St Athens, TN 37303 423-462-2130 St. Mark Ame Zion Methodist 707 N. Jackson St Athens, TN 37303 Tranquility UMC 135 County Rd. 177 Athens, TN 37303 423-334-3062 Trinity UMC 100 E. College St Athens, TN 37303 423-745-0452
Vine Grove UMC 517 County Rd. 778 Athens, Tn 37303 423-507-5760
Non- Denominational
Ascension Life 935 Rocky Mount Rd Athens, TN 37303 423-829-5102 Christian Freedom Worship Center 109 Cherry St Athens, TN 37303 423-745-8999 Calvary Tabernacle of God 2820 Hwy 11 Athens, TN 37303 423-744-7159 Christian Community Church 190 Congress Parkway Athens, TN 37303 423-453-7111 Great Deliverance Ministries 2329 Clearwater Rd Athens, TN 37303 423-745-7575 Liberty Church 3328 Hwy 11 Athens, TN 37303 423-745-9248 Overcoming Faith Christian 14 Carter Rd Athens, TN 37303 423-745-3105 Restoration Church 3115 Hwy 39 Athens, TN 37303 423-745-7777 Sanctury 9 S. Kilgore St. Athens, TN 37303 423-745-8900
Pentecostal
Crosslife Ministries 817 S. White St Athens, TN 37313 423-368-7197
Presbyterian
First United Presbyterian Church 321 N. Jackson St Athens, TN 37303 423-744-9073 Freedman Chapel C.P.C.A. 415 Cleveland Ave. Athens, TN 37303 423-252-0159 Mars Hill Presbyterian 205 N. Jackson St Athens, TN 37303 423-745-1403
Seveth-Day Adventist
Seveth-Day Adventist 230 New Englewood Rd Athens, TN 37303 423-745-2335
LIST YOUR Church Activities & Events Special Events Such As... •Revivals •Cookouts •Concerts •Fundraisers •Etc. articles.goodnews@gmail.com 423.478.6484
ò0dNews for Men Gò0dNews for Parents
Ananias
Children−Molded by God
Are you willing to be an “Ananias” to a brother or sister in Christ who is going through a difficult situation? Charles Laws With faith, prayer,byand God’s G. love, children can become beautiful pieces of art. by Charles Laws
ometimes as we read the scriptures, there is a simple
W
On the surface, this is a simple yet profound story,
meaning on the surface, but many times there is a but the question arises: “Why did God need Ananias to hat was the attitude of Jesus toward These can be used for good or bad. How it is used is up deeper truth. This happens in the Book of Acts in lay his hands on Saul so that the scales would fall from children? In Matthew 19:13, little children to the individual. Bullying has always been existent, but “Damascus-road” experience. his eyes?” After all, He made Saul blind in the first place! were brought to Jesus for Him to lay His today social media has become a tool for bullying, and many cases we are more comfortable with the simple We see that Saul spent several days with a small band of hands on them and pray for them, but the disciples some children are bullied using cell phones and posts ng because it requires less of us! Sometimes it requires disciples, and they became companions. He would not rebuked those who brought them, as if to say that Jesus on Facebook. Some children have become afraid to go to on on our part other than reading it as our daily have felt comfortable meeting the entire group of disciples did not have time for them. But in Matthew 19:14, we school due to being bullied! Unfortunately, when used on! In Acts 9:2-9 we read of Saul’s conversion on the at once, especially considering the fact that he persecuted see that Jesus loves little children. Jesus said, “Let the in the wrong way, social media can cause our piece of Damascus to persecute the Lord’s disciples, called Christians zealously before his Damascus-Road experience! little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for pottery to become marred. As human beings, we are e of the Way” (see Acts Also, the disciples would the kingdom of heaven tempted by Satan and he neared Damascus, not have felt comfortable belongs to such as these” children are not exempt. from heaven flashed meeting Saul by himself! (NIV). In Mark 10:15 Jesus If they are given a him and he fell to the The truth is that Saul needed makes a further statement solid base when they are . Then a voice said to Ananias to introduce him to about children that applies young, they can build on it aul, Saul, why do you the entire band of disciples. to adults as well: “I tell you and continue to be molded ute me?” Saul answered Each of us needs other the truth, anyone who will by God, the “Master are you, Lord?” The Christians in our Christian notisreceive the kingdom of Potter,” inone the way that He given to him in journey, sometimes just
God like you a little child will : “I am Jesus whom never enter it” (NLT). secuting.” He replied.
intended for them to individual andhas sometimes a small group,be to molded. help us Their pottery
innocence when they are ust do” (NIV). young, but over time they ul was blinded by the
develop cracks, willing to be an “Ananias” to but with faith, a brother or sister inprayer, Christ and God’s
Children get up and go into the (including d you will young be told people) what possess an
are exposed theeat world nd for three days he didtonot nor drink anything. and lose their innocence. parently stayed at the house of a disciple named
may situation. be weak at times through a difficult and become Also, each of us should be marred and
love, these can be mended who is going through a difficult situation. The following into a beautiful piece of lessons are learned from the above and are excellent for
The speaks of all us aasdisciple a piece of potterydiscussion and God in aart. When they are born, they are a big lump of “clay.” not Iscariot). In Bible Damascus there was Bible study. is the Potter. The Potter has theand right to make what our job as parents to teach the to little children about Ananias. The Lord called him in a vision told 1. He Each of It usisneeds other Christians at times help us
wishes as expressed Isaiah 64:8: “Yet, love situation. and forgiveness. He will never leave us, go to the house of with Judasthe onclay, Straight Street andinseek throughGod’s a difficult O Lord, you are ourwas father. WeHe arewas the clay, you are drop us, and never let us break. Proverbs 22:6 man called Saul of Tarsus who blind. 2. Athe visitornever is more at ease if hewill or she is accompanied
We hands are allon thehim work ofhe your hand” (NRSV). by a friend says, child in the way he should go, and when ted furtherpotter. to lay his that might or“Train a smalla group. Children (andwas adults) are but likethe a piece he istool old he not growth turn from it” (NET). his sight. Ananias naturally afraid, Lordof pottery. 3. An excellent forwill church is the
Sometimes may be weak and develop cracks; Go” in verse 15, and hethe didpottery as the Lord commanded. development of small groups or “communities.” it becomes marred and other ales fell from Saul’s eyes and he gotincurs up and wasimperfections due
the influence the society in whichIn we live. Our ed. He tooktosome food and of regained his strength.
is much different than it the was when I was 19(b)-20 wesociety read: “Saul spent severalnow days with
a child. factors are cell (smart)inphones, Facebook, es in Damascus. AtBig once he began to preach the
gues that Jesus is the Son God” (NIV). computers, andofother components of social media.
May 2017 20 // August 2017
Charles is aismember of Cleveland CharlesG.G.Laws Laws a member of Cleveland First Church First Church of the He Nazarene. He has a B.A.with a major of the Nazarene. has a B.A. degree degree with a major in mathematics and in mathematics and minors in physics and education minors in physics and education from Austin from Austin Peay State University in Clarksville TN Peay State University in Clarksville TN and a and adegree M.A.with degree withinamathematics major in mathematics from M.A. a major from TheUniversity University Tennessee (UTK). He enjoysm The of of Tennessee (UTK). He enjoys reading,chess, chess, walking listening to music. reading, walking andand listening to music.
Challenge! OUR TEACHERS WILL SEE YOUR CHILD FOR WHO THEY ARE AS WELL AS WHAT THEY COULD BE.
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Gò0dNews for Life
Life-Affirming Decisions
“I
Since every individual has different passions, ideas, and motivations, every individual can change the world if given an opportunity to do so. by Jessica Oliver
wonder how many Nobel laureates, medical
arm of Planned Parenthood, reported that having a child
researchers, physicians, nurses, inventors,
would interfere with a woman’s education and her work
philanthropists, diplomats, and humanitarians
and ability to care for dependents. She could not afford
have been lost to abortion in the forty-two years since Roe
the baby financially, and she did not want to be a single
V. Wade. Forty-two: old enough to become the president
mother or deal with relationship issues when the baby
of the U.S.”
was born.
August is rolling in, and with that comes early,
No one permits another to intentionally hurt or
fast-pace mornings all because school is officially back in
kill someone without punishment, and abortion is no
session. Students are, once again, wandering out in the
different. The point is not who the baby will be in the
halls with bright eyes, new ideas, and expectations to
future but that the baby has the opportunity to simply
receive a new and higher education.
exist and experience life. Further, the Preamble states
Whether it be elementary school, middle school, or
that every member of the human family shares equal
high school, students are ready to take on new experiences,
and inalienable rights. Inalienable rights are linked to
as well as meet new friends. Maybe your child’s new
dignity, human values, as well as human rights, which
“best friend” that he makes this upcoming year is a New
we, including human babies in the womb, should not be
Hope baby. Maybe it is the kid that sits next to your child
deprived of.
in class or the one who has a locker next to him. Maybe this new best friend is quiet, or maybe he is unreservedly loud and is known as the “class clown.” What if your child’s best friend now did not actually exist? Things would look a whole lot different. What if the
Ronald Reagan once observed, “I’ve noticed that every person for abortion has already been born.” Every individual has different passions, different ideas, as well as different motivations. This means that every individual can change the world. America must first give them the opportunity to do so. New Hope Pregnancy Care Center
quiet or the loud student did
has been empowering those affected by
not exist? While there is no
unplanned pregnancy in hopes that those
way of knowing what would
men and women will make life-affirming
happen, it would change the
decisions since 1986. Since 2005, New Hope
ambiance of the school entirely.
has confirmed the birth of more than 600
According to statistics, over 11,000 abortions were performed in 2015 in the state of Tennessee purely due to the convenience of the
babies. Who knows, your child’s new best friend could be a New Hope baby. That’s why at New Hope we offer help and hope. Let this school year be the best one yet.
woman. Guttmacher Institute, the research
22 // August 2017
Jessica Oliver is a senior at Lee University studying public relations with a minor in journalism. She is an aspiring author and is hopeful the Lord will use her talents to glorify His kingdom.
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Gò0dNews for Health & Fitness
People-Watching
A
Observing others plays a large part in our fitness journeys. by Christina Edwards
ll of us are people-watchers . . . admit it! Observing others in public places is just funny. I’m not one that intentionally sets out to people-watch; it just happens while I’m at the gym. There’s something so fascinating about observing others making efforts to better their bodies. Just like bird-watchers, people-watchers are sure to have their favorites. At my gym, I have a handful of people I admire. Granny: A woman who is old enough to be my grandmother. She’s at the gym every day. She is in phenomenal shape. She has excellent stamina and endurance. She makes me look weak in comparison. Leg Man: A younger man (probably in his midtwenties) with legs that are toned and defined. I could be convinced he is constantly flexing. I’ve seen him lift weights. I’ve watched him run on the treadmill. I’ve observed this man during his one-on-one sessions with his personal trainer. When given a challenge, he meets it. Dancer Chick: A young lady who frequents the dance classes. Her confidence is through the “roof!” It’s almost comical how intense her facial expressions become when she dances to certain songs. She knows all of the routines and acts as if her every move is being recorded for a new hip-hop music video. What does any of this have to do with health and fitness? At every gym there will always be a man that looks like a professional body builder. His muscles glisten with
24 // August 2017
sweat as he lifts what appears to weigh the amount of a small car. Or you may notice the lady that looks as if she could play Barbie in a live action film. She wears makeup to the gym; she never sweats and has rock-hard abs. While comparison can be the biggest thief of joy, I’m not convinced it has to be that way. When I observe others, I choose to learn from them. My body may not be where I’d like it to be. I’m not very fast; spaghetti noodles are probably stronger than my arms, and I feel personally victimized when my trainer tells me to do a sit-up. Yet, when I people-watch, I see determination and possibility. Every journey starts with a single step. Granny didn’t become a powerhouse overnight. Leg Man didn’t just wake up with perfectly sculpted legs. Dancer Chick hasn’t always been able to dance like J-lo. We’ll never know who is watching. It’s very likely that my fellow gym-goers are people-watching me. We must decide what others are going to see. Paul writes to the Church in Rome, “I urge you, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship” (Rom. 12:1 NASB). May our workouts not only improve our physical health and relationships with the Lord but also give the people-watchers a reason to praise our God. Christina Edwards is a senior at Lee University. She serves in youth ministry and has a heart for children. This year she competed in a 12 week fitness challenge where she won the local competition for females in her division.
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Gò0dNews for Teens
Teens: Struggles and Issues
B
“God is our refuge, an ever-present help in trouble.” —Psalms 46:1 NIV by Sam Blankenship
eing a youth pastor and a bus driver, I personally
looked at me with tears in her eyes and said that she
see teens who are going through so much in their
had been cutting herself. It broke my heart to think that
lives. A lot of them have personal issues they
a little girl would even have that kind of thought to hurt
face inside their homes. They have so many distractions
herself to get out of the pain she was going through. It
that keep them from fully living their lives as a normal
really opened my eyes to the pain that young people go
teenager. Some of the main distractions include the
through in their lives. As parents, we need to be in our
following factors:
children’s lives and making sure that they know we love
Cyber Addictions: Social media is virtually destroying our young people. They will put everything
them as parents. Underage Sex/Teen Pregnancy: Whether we want
they do on a computer. Let me say that the cell phone is
to believe it or not, teen pregnancy and premarital sex
basically a small computer that our teens use every day.
has become a part of about 40 to 45 percent of teens
Cyber addiction is real, and as parents we need to keep
today. It has become such a problem that some schools
our kids in church and monitor their use of a computer
have considered installing daycares in the schools to
or cell phone. We also need to stay on our knees praying
take care of kids while young Moms and Dads attend
for God’s protection for our teens.
classes. This should really concern us as parents to see
Depression: There are a lot of teens today battling
and know this is happening. The high schools are full of
depression. Some encounter bullying at school, some
pregnant girls and the middle schools are getting a lot of
encounter eating disorders thinking they are not
pregnant girls as well.
wanted, and some encounter thinking their parents
Teenagers (ten to nineteen) face so many struggles.
don’t want anything to do with them. There are so many
It is time we as parents become a part of our teenagers’
broken homes today that can cause a teenager to have
lives. We should take them to church and not just send
depression issues. Whatever the case, depression is real
them. We need to love them and be an active part
in so many teens.
of their lives. Parents, do not let the cell phones and
I remember about two years ago I had a ten-yearold little girl that rode my bus. One day she brought a knife on the bus. When I saw it, I took it from her and asked her why she brought a knife on the bus. She
26 // August 2017
computers do it for you! Sam Blankenship is the youth pastor of Philadelphia Missionary Baptist Church in Cleveland, TN. He has a doctorate degree in theology from the gospel school of the Bible.
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FEATURED COVER STORY
An Ambassador for Christ “Like many businesses, my business is the ‘people’ business, remarks Dennis Anderson. It’s about establishing and developing relationships and earning people’s confidence and trust. They want to know that we’ll be there for them if they have a really bad day.”
A
ccording to Dennis Anderson, almost no one sets out from childhood to be an insurance agent, and Dennis wasn't the exception. But in 1991, he began a new journey that has proven both personally satisfying and strategic. However, his young adult life gave no indication that he would follow this path. "My early impression was that insurance guys were probably expert talkers and golfers, and spent their business hours persuading people to buy things they didn’t want." But after sixteen years of satisfying work in the corporate marketing environment, Dennis began to feel the tug for independence and for a greater sense of control over his future. That's when Tony, a friend from church, began to suggest to Dennis that he would enjoy and thrive in the agency environment with Shelter Insurance. Tony was actually suggesting that Dennis replace him as Shelter's local agent! Tony had been an engineer, but thought that running an insurance agency would be suited for him. After all, his dad had made the same transition successfully some time earlier in another town. But after three years at the helm, Tony decided
28 // August 2017
that he was truly made for engineering. So with much prayer (and encouragement from his wife, Donna) Dennis eventually became Shelter's local agent. Almost twenty-six years later, he's very glad he did.
Earning Trust over the Years
There have been continuous opportunities to earn trust over the years. Oddly enough, it is when the major weather events have occurred that business has grown the most. The "Blizzard of '93" stimulated exponential growth in Shelter's local family of customers. "I remember the very first day that roads were drivable, our adjusters were out handing total loss checks to farmers whose barns and poultry houses had collapsed. This made a big impression on their friends and relatives who weren't as fortunate with their claims experiences. Then of course the tornado and hail events of 2011 and 2012 were just as traumatic and tragic. So many people were affected in such a personal way. As a result, life around the office was both physically and mentally draining for several months, but through experiences like this, many people begin to understand what kind of protection they have against life's disasters."
Sharing the Good News of Jesus
But if you ask Dennis and his licensed assistant, Robin Conn, what they like most about their jobs, it is not the normal business answer. "We feel that God has put us in a strategic place as ambassadors for Christ. We have the opportunity of being the face and the aroma of Christ when people are having their worst days. We deal with people in their happy moments, like births, graduations, and weddings. But we also hear from people when there has been a death, a personal tragedy, a loss of job, or divorce. These are the raw moments of life when people are looking for hope. What a privilege it is to represent the God of the universe as He works to reconcile the world to Himself−and allows us to be involved in this with Him!" (See 2 Cor. 5:18). For Dennis, this intersection of business and Christian ministry goes back to the ‘70s when he came to faith in the midst of the "Jesus Movement." Soon after this life-altering experience, he became part of a "Christian rock" band (before it was called "contemporary Christian music"). The band traveled across the country, sharing the good news of Jesus in outdoor venues, high school assemblies and in some
"brave" churches. They ended up living in Washington State for a while, being recognized in town as "those Jesus freaks," whose job it was to talk about Jesus. The thought that people expected him to walk the Christian walk out of duty began to bother him. But during this period, the band had performed in some Full Gospel Businessmen's regional conventions. Through this exposure, Dennis had noticed what a strategic impact it can be when business people represent the Kingdom in a way that is unexpected by the people in their influence. "That is when I decided that 'vocational ministry' was not my calling. I asked the Lord to allow
me to 'sneak-up' on people by representing Christ in the business world." He says that God has been faithful to answer that prayer.
Share the Abundance of Life
But love and encouragement toward the body of Christ is also a passion for both Dennis and for Robin his long-time assistant. "The Lord has taught me over the years that our approach to church should be, 'Come to the table with some food to share with the others who gather there. As you do, you'll go away with much more food than you brought. Then go into the marketplace on Monday and share the abundance of life with a hungry world.'" Dennis is an elder, small group leader, and member of the choir and music ministry at Westmore Church of God, where his main emphasis is discipleship. Robin is a leader in both Women's Ministries and Awana at Westwood Baptist, where she also enjoys ministering through the choir. They invite you to come see them at their office on 4160 Ocoee Street North in Cleveland, or to call them at 423-476-1300 or contact them at danderson@ shelterinsurance.com or www.shelterinsurance.com/ dennisanderson.
issuu.com/goodnewscm // 29
Gò0dNews for Everyone Gò0dNews Everyone WhyforWere You
Born? Listening Is a Learned Trait You were created with gifts, talents, and a calling no other human has. by Kelly McDonald, Jr. by Kelly McDonald Jr.
H
ave you ever considered why you were born? take potential on planet earth. When My dear brothers and sisters, note of this: Everyone should be He came to earth, He quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry because human I can certainly tell you that it is not by chance told us, “I have come that they might have life, and anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires. that you exist. It is not by chance you are—James 1:19-20 that they might have it more abundantly” (John 10:10 NIV reading this article. There is a great, divine purpose KJV). Jesus came to give us eternal life, but He also
TSpiritual What Is the Good News? Momentum (Part 2 of 2)
presented Evennow! more so, here is a difference between hearing and came for your life. Consider the following: to give usby lifeother full of people. purpose right
we should be quick to listen to the voice and When you receive Jesus, child of discernment of God so you thatbecome we cana properly fingerprint. Nowhere one else hasare your God. have a spiritual that respond. A You wisewill man once said, “IfFather you are active process you considering the The good newsand of the kingdom ofheart. God is always that wetalking, have the opportunity to repeat join what then you will only words being spoken taking them to fingerprint. will speak to you, nurture you, and a God’s Kingdom thatqualities—his endures forever. “ForYour sinceresponse the creation of the world invisible eternal power and divine nature—have you already know. But if you listen, you will should be geared toward the • You are the only person on earth provide for your needs in a way that havemade, everything currently know and learn message another is conveying toMcDonald, been clearlythat seen, beingperson understood from what has been people are without excuse.” by Kelly Jr. so thatyou withAyour voice. No one else cannot. When youtime.” begin what someonehumans else knows at the same you. conversation is defined as a message —Romans 1:20 NIV received. That message is processed, and an looking sounds like you do. Jesus Christ, to have a relationship withfor your hen our Savior, came to earth, to the kingdoms of this world to we provide our One time in particular when want by Kelly McDonald, Jr. appropriate response is issued. In a world to guard ourallwords is when are in for the • You are only person on come. The Kingdom your purpose being Hethe said, “The time has needs and solve ourCreator, problems, wewe are to look to the texting, for emails, cell phones, we want t isofimportant us to and see an example where onpresence the roof. The yearsSolomon of servingwrote, God, the battles your won, of God. “Guard earth of with your iris pattern created will become actualized. God has come near.want Repent and believe the almighty God. instant gratification. We to say what we steps when you we go read to the house of God. chapters Go spiritual momentum was stopped. King David was and the momentum about in previous in your eyes. You see the When youinto receive Jesus, our way, but this is not God’s way. God goodwant news!” (Mark 1:15 NIV). Jesus talked about the good By accepting Jesus Christ, wetoenter a Kingdom near to listen rather than offer the sacrifice a mighty us man Helisteners. won battles forwants God and up to this point became stilled upon the actions of toofbeGod. He us of where world through a God. unique also become free citizen newswants of the kingdom ofgood That was the central focus our needs for.that Jesus saidain Matthew of fools, whoare doprovided notyou know they do wrong. worshiped with of hisand heart. watch the spiritual one evening. You know what happened next? David to listen toall others toLet’s Him. Everyone has Do not be quick with your mouth, do not be set of eyes. of His and kingdom (Eph. 2:19His ministry. What is the good news? 6:33, “But seek first his kingdom his righteousness, something to contribute conversation. momentum at a specific point in in hisalife. In 2 Samuel 5, committed withtoBathsheba. hasty in adultery your heart utter anything before These scientific facts Phil. 3:20as NKJV). Before we can really understand good we to and all these things will be20, given to you well” (NIV). Ecclesiastes 3:7 tells us thatthis there is news, “A time God. Godways, is inDavid heaven you onItThis earth, David became king over all twelve tribes of Israel. He In some wasand never the are same. took silentfingerprint, and time tobackground speak” (NIV). explain why means thatsustenance: there a specific mustbe understand theahistorical behind Jesus’ Human natural food, so letneeds yoursupersede words bemere few” (Eccl. 5:1-2isNIV). also captured Jerusalem and defeated the Philistines. In David years to get things back on track. Instead of going Sometimes we clothing. are so busy talking that we Iniris therecognition process listening, we must voice, task you were putmiss on words.and The Roman Empireofruled the Promised Landguard (and shelter, water, and Ourthat needs have a spiritual 2 Samuel 6, David brought the Ark of thementions Covenantthis into forward, he decided to take a break atwritten a time when he God’s voice. We can miss His Word ourselves against anger. James technology work. Scienceworld) in Jesus’ lifetime. The to fulfill as aever citizen most of the Mediterranean component that no human earth government could as well. in theIn verses above. Often we the promise Jerusalem. 2 Samuel 7, David received needed to press in. There is a time where we need to only confirms what the around Biblein 27 in that Kingdom. It kingdom is a task ministry of Christ began or 28 AD. Just before provide. In the midst of a time period where the hear about things the In Job 34:3-4, Elihuwhen said,it “For ear that his throne would endure forever. In chapters 8-10, rest. However, we must discern is timethe to press already tellsor us: praise you fit just Jesus’world ministry began, the Romans entered into a time of of Rome was being exalted,uniquely Jesus boldly liftedfor theyou. in“Ichurch, and we tests words theone tongue David other kings and organized the kingdom. in. Just recall Jesus fromas part of thistastes series. food. David’s getdefeated This anger because Iangry. am fearfully and brings It will be the thing that were prosperity under the Emperor Augustus, who ruled from kingdom ofLet Godus above it. Several Roman Emperors discern for ourselves what The momentum was going in the right direction. He downfall started when the momentum stopped. is us to the brink of actions wonderfully made; gives you theasmost joy 27 BC to 14 AD. Thereyour was works plenty of food in the empire. jealous of God’s people, and there were many asand twelve right; let us learn together what is thatlike areancontrary to God’s seemed unstoppable force for God. One character in (NIV). the BibleLet’s who stayed consistent good” listen, taste the are wonderful, I know that fullenemies. This led many satisfaction in life. Once They had peacein from of their persecutions against Christians between 64 and 324you AD. purpose theall world. Then we arrive at 2 Samuel 11. “In the spring, at throughout his Christian life was is this? Paul words given, andPaul. giveWhy a proper In premature well” (Psa.139:14 NIV).“Savior.” People began to proclaim begin in it, youfall will people toour call Augustus The kingdom of God will to notwalk rise and then as do responsein from God. listen to the time when kings go off to war, David sent Joab was always involved the work of Let’s God; he always anger, we can say or God isnews” the Creator of never imagine life without it. the “good of the Roman Empire. Jesus preached the those of mankind. It always thelisten preeminence; others, so wehas can to Godit cannot and do things that weand later out with the king’s men the whole Israelite army. pursued God. In Colossians 1:29, Paul said, “To this beThe used ofI God. humanity. HeWe made you unique. encourage you today to seek goodregret. news of the kingdom of God. The gospel was not just be overthrown. promises of its ruler, God almighty, should be and besieged Rabbah. They destroyed the Ammonites end I labor, struggling with all his energy, which so He made you of atokind. GodWe with your heart and walk a message with spiritual meaning; are sure; He is faithful. canall have complete confidence quick to one listen the Youit also carried political But David remained in Jerusalem. One evening David powerfully works in me.” entire matter that is have gifts, talents, andup a the calling that because no seekwill therule purpose which ramifications. It stirred Romans this good in Him. One daywith this Him; Kingdom planetfor earth listening. Hearing is just allowing words
• You are thethrough only person onears. earthListening with youris an to go your
W I
got up from his bed and walked around on the roof other human being on earth has. Have you ever felt news was about a different Kingdom. of the palace. From the roof he saw a woman bathing like Today, there isthe something more forit your life?all Does world thinks that can solve of itsyour . . .” (2 Sam. 11:1-2a NIV). First, David sent out the normal, schedule make you weary? problemsroutine by human intervention. We think that by human troops while he remained in Jerusalem. He stopped the You wereand created more. were government effort,for we something can make the worldYou a better momentum. It seems that he had decided to take an created for a trusting great purpose. God sent His son, Jesus, place. We are in man. When the gospel of the extended break in the middle of an important battle. to die for of you sowas thatbeing you proclaimed, could actualize your full kingdom God it was a challenge The Bible specifically says, “One evening,” David went to Roman dominance in the lives of people. Instead of
30 August 2017 52 // July 2017 52 // // June 2017 50 // March 2016
When we are saved, the power and energy of Christ you were born. were not born in vain. He has completely (see Rev.You 20:4-6). When you join this Kingdom, abides within us through His Spirit. It pushes us to go ayou great purpose fortoyour life. we have to do is no longer have worry or All be fearful of the world forward even when we do not feel like it. The focus of simply seek Him. events going on around you. You have “Good News” to this verse is to let the Spirit of God drive us forward by share every day. yielding to it. Let’s keep the momentum going!
Kelly is an an ordained ordained Kelly McDonald, McDonald, Jr. is evangelist Hungry Hearts Hearts evangelist with Hungry Ministries. written15 15books books Ministries. He has written andbooklets booklets on Christian and ChristianLiving. Living. www.hungryheartsministry.com www.hungryheartsministry.com
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Gò0dNews for Couples Gò0dNews for Couples
What Is Normal?
God’s design to stay connected, stay engaged, stay “one,” requires the relationship as ever maturing.
TI
Modern-day Servants . . . by Don Smith
Working together for God’s Kingdom thatSmith book the author gives an analysis of five basic hroughout Scripture we are told stories of many by In Don
personality and howin they as they well were as couples. Most those couples area odd, to saynon-descript Astypes demonstrated the communicate reference in Acts, n the ‘80s,of I read a book about seemingly the least. Adam and Eve−Adam was willing to feacouple named Priscilla and Aquila. They were
how toofcommunicate with them. people aside have and read one mind doctrinally. TheyMany took Apollos
taught him a more excellent They knew what they tured in the ministry the apostle. Youthe find them that book and have attempted toway. change their personality let his wife be the guinea pig forofanPaul experiment with believed not ashamed tobook. share that beliefto with Acts, Romans, andAbraham Timothy. From type. That wasand notwere the purpose of the We need tree of the mentioned knowledgeinof good and evil. was those few
someone else.As They theLove sameDare “page” when it came verses authors LoistoT.aHenderson andhis Harold observe and learn. thewere bookonThe promotes, willing to sacrifice his wife king to save own Ivan skin.Smith to the beliefslike of their household. How canexam you be an entire novel. Asall I was readingwere this book to study we’re taking our final ontogether this David hadwrote multiple “couplings” of which not (whichwe need if you have differing beliefs about something so eternal?
I couldn't put down), I was mesmerized by this couple. person we are connected to. the storybook fantasy the Western romanticist is looking There is no indication that they were "credentialed" min-
for. Where is the role model for a Western styled Judeo-
isters by the church, that they held conferences about how
Christian couple?
The kingdom of God is one. As a matter of fact, Paul said
Learning your mate’s ins and outs is the only
that very thing to the Corinthians . . . you should be of
way you’re going to have a long relationship, a lasting
to work with your local apostle. They didn't do interviews
one voice, one doctrine, one purpose. As a couple, the two
with local media on the idiosyncrasies of Paul. They were−
became one. Figure out what you believe and run with it.
Let’s set one standard clear; God wants us to be
friendship, and real future together. If we “shop” for the
perfect “Knight in Shining Armor” or the “Damsel in connected to one person for our lifespan. He created Adam Again by the reference of Paul to Timothy, they were as Paul says in Romans 16:3−“my helpers.” My question
that How we can we will be forever and gave him Eve.does Jesus reaffirmed thisget in along? the Gospels helpers. do save, you help one another? Doshopping. you have a seris how a couple like this What when could be Distress” in
Men do this attitude? quite well; out how to conquer, He was asked divorce.that He lent emphatically thatkingdom vant’s Wethey werefigure at a friend’s house for dinnerbut with theirabout personalities to workingstated with the conquering is done, havewere nothing else toThe do “since the beginning” male and female and that like once the several other couples andthey the hosts amazing. of God, andthere more was specifically, a late-comer apostle was and is Paul God’s design. Anything than that design (the apostle formerlyother known as Saul).
(in their minds). But wanted in ordera to keep the relationship alive husband really particular thing, and he deferred,
butthere it seemed to have lost in all the day. passing around. It strikes me thatof there seemsWe to be noabout desire for fame. and real, should be agotten conquering every Women is outside the created purpose couples. talk His wife noticed thatnew he didn't haveat what wanted and only thing this couple to do kind was work to keep things and look theirhe“Knight” as “permissiveThe will” and “perfect will” wanted or whatever of for also need made sure she wonder brought it him, didn't pass it to somethe Kingdom.will How say−as a couple− that ever glistening ontothe white steed. will, we please—God’s is many for usof toyou staycan connected, stay that“one.” there isLet’s a common between you? Do you find engaged, stay just setwork this as the standard God
yourself on two different continents working separately
uses for couple relationship.
elsepurpose and ask them to get it torelationships him; she took it him. It one is our to look at our astoever
Do you help one another like that? Do we work together,
living, ever growing, ever maturing. Remember, as
and pulling at the fabric of your connectivity? If you are
believe together, and serve one another? I believe those
together, don't you think God would want you working
things are key to being a successful couple.
In the course of human history the evidence is clear
that we (humans) are broken, fallen, and sinful by our very
the old cliché goes . . . you’re only promised today, for tomorrow may never come.
together for His kingdom? To me that would mean you go
nature. As we embark on our journey with others, it is
to church together, pray together, talk with one another, set
incumbentout upon us today understand that. Several yearstoago in your together. What is important one Ishould was encouraged to readtoathe book called the 5 Love Languages. be important other.
32 // 2017 June 2017 32 // August
Donald E. E. Smith SmithJr. Jr.M. M.Div., Div., D.Min. D. Min.He Heisisexecutive executivedirector of HeartsofSet Free. Set Free. director Hearts donsmith@heartsetfree.org donsmith@heartsetfree.org
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Gò0dNews for Seniors
Gò0dNews for Seniors Gò0dNews for Seniors
Seventy Years Strong Intergenerational Intersection Strength in Being Alone bywith Esmerelda LeeI have Staying and involved their church, theirlearned work in through the community, Being alone is a choice, I want to share what seniors. and their family has kept this couple’s love strong! by Esmerelda Lee uring the month of May, our oldest son Based on demographics alone, it behooves us as by million. Esmerelda Lee
D SI Reinventing Yourself after Retirement graduated from high school. parents, ince I have begun my new job, IMy have been who
a nation to find way atofirm communicate. Highetyou hand andaoffer handshakeGilbert to someone
enjoy an inspiring old love stories. Favorites like
adhere to a strong work ethic. Mitchell attributes his
hadAn notAffair visitedtoin five of years, made special said, “Wherever there are beginners and experts, traveling weekly. Most my time isaspent recently a restaurant. Remember, Love is a Many Splendid sons’encountered successes tointheir mother. He old didand say that he
trip to meeting see their oldest grandchild graduate, and enjoyed there isBetty some kind of learning going on, kind“some new people, andmove even though I am • Being alone is an opportunity to try newsome things. Thing, and others me more than some young, and believed in giving their children
of the modern-day love stories on the Hallmarkof teaching. good that helped every minute ofsenior the pomp andeach circumstance that goes We lickings,” are all an pupils and we who aretoo. allbegan teachers.” still working in living, week is completely Recently, I met older lady line
R
Channel. There is something to beEsmerelda said about theLee by InShe a world where so many people along with anfilled American high school graduation. Interacting older adults enables youth to focus on their different and with opportunity. What I haveAs they dancing. with had never danced while married purity and innocence of the courtship and love
own happiness and make life-altering decisions
rose to the singing of the American anthem, and develop social skills, problem discovered, however, is that aold lot movies. ofnational my time is spent morenetworks, than fiftycommunication years, but Inow that she depicted through I am also honored to for based on these motives, asked Betty and Mitchell
ecently, I read that “Retirement isplayed youinstop money toalone, start their own business, and years applauded when every graduate walked across the stage, solving abilities, positive attitudes toward aging, and alone. Whether I am traveling, awhen hotel out room or having found herself rather than sit inthe hersixty-nine home see these love storiesin real life retirement through if they were happy throughout older adults. Couples that fell inLiving love and marriage. “We lost, always it I saw tears intimes, their eyes. In South Africa, aexperience student’s final a sense ofof community service, according to Generations most I am alone. This new hasstayed and mope over years she worked decided toout, try and if we living meals, at work and start working at living. finally work for themselves. in love through a world war, the Depression, life
didn’t laugh at each other, we found someone or
day of high isand the day United (2002). Older caused me toschool pause totally new. without an alarm clock, living spend hours care arena hassomething benefitted older in challenges, raisingto and burying loved ones are The health something to laugh about. You’ll from have problems whenabout he or she takes thewe last think the seniors
couples lovedtofor life.day—is that golfing, and having no rigid that agenda your
adults benefit from Never foralso a moment
who doesn’t? You just havethrough to talk it adults that marriage, still feel abut strong call to impact lives
exam,daily, walksand around saying serve the and fact Betty Mitchell Lyle are a local Cleveland
the positive mindset, a spectator discern out,” Mitch replied.could
retirement? So when Imust wasfeel asked to in give presentation community service and volunteering. This is not a fought, new goodbye one’s teachers, vibrant attitudes, couple that theafirst grade at When I asked if they ever that manyto themet that this beautiful Arnold Memorial School. For Mitchell it they looked puzzled. “Who doesn’t recently to a large group of seniors venture for seniors; however,seventy-eight-year-old since the population of and then is finally finished.in Knoxville, and vitality of a same way. was love at first sight. Betty believes that
a graduation IBetween haverequested thought many Tennessee, and they the topic, “Re-inventing the grinning first-grader grew on her
fight? We are both so different, and
younger generation. lady had lost a daughterefforts seniors is growing at a rapid pace, volunteering we like different things. When we
party,of and helping with Studies show that the ones and a husband, because over time. According to Mitchell, they have improved, and baby fought, the one with the strongest yourself aftertimes Retirement,” Iwho believed it would be a great boomers who are retiring are houselost chores that needed have awere spouse. I can’t on each other but did not “sweet” to be done fordifficult years, it imagine how
opportunity for me toget research how older adults are serious until after World War II.
Mitchell enlisted in the Navy in 1943 embracing retirement and what this “living” actually my parents spent most must be suddenly learning
youth involved in life exuded so much caseshe won.” Mitchell also added,
making their mark through acts of service. “We compromised, but Betty made intergenerational and love.
the most compromises. I amYellow still Older adults have embraced thealone factprograms that mentoring • Being is an theare
and stayed out to sea for most of that surprised that she chose me.”In pages are now extinct. They opportunity are beginning tobegin have a 46% less likely to to rely on time. He remembers a year and half Betty’s much softer voice, she said, grandchildren. Every using illegal drugs, not hearing that warm Christ. For seventeen going by before feet even there is something to 27% fight of about, Through retirement, many olderhis adults havetouched found presence on social media,“Ifare enjoying the benefits dryfound land. But each week mail isless something worth saving.” evening was with likely to begin using voice of greeting each morning. Some when older adults years I had becomethere accustomed to constant love, the time to do something they always hoped they could having a smart phone, and are well versed on texting, was delivered to hismany aircraft carrier, August 22, 2016, Betty and in-depth conversations about alcohol, and 52% less experience being alone because of their families attention and sounds ofOn seniors and associates do before having children—go back toletters college. using Siri, and Skype. Mitchell Lyle will celebrate their Betty’s unrelenting andOver her faith life, love and lots of humor. skip school, or friends may have moved. I have considered how always around me. When likely we aretoalways with that he would return home kept their love strong. seventieth wedding anniversary. Today, these 20 colleges and intothe United States have Older adults are still traveling, starting new hobbies, Myuniversities daddyit made sure that according to Independent daunting must be walk into a restaurant or dining people, we often lose sight of God’s presence. When Mitchell and Betty were finally reunited lifelong Cleveland residents live at Garden Plaza at created programs to encourage these life-long spendingWhen time with grandchildren, andapartment mentoring he shared stories, spiritual Sector (2007). after the war, they dated forlearners eight short months Cleveland Senior fear Living. Their room and know no one. you constantly displeasing people, has little before they were married. After graduating college, awards they won from serving in their vocations lessons he has learned in My parents were Loneliness is difficult to experience at any age; people become your primary focus. Proverbs to attend or graduate from college. It is not abnormal to others. Some may reinvent themselves; others may find Betty became a school teacher with Cleveland City and in their community, war-torn photographs life, and listened for hours myself that loneliness and onlyprove here for three however, I am discovering 29:25 says “Fear of man, will to be a snare, see an eighty-year-old, vibrant senior with histoback most are redesigning asisfun Schools, and Mitchell went workpack for the themselves, railroad. ofand family members, and besideretirement each recliner a to his alone grandsons expressing weeks; being are not the sameone thing. Loneliness typically buttattered whoeverand trusts in the Lord is however, kept safe”their Later he became of the members of our City worn Bible. across his shoulder meandering through the college and filled with intrinsic rewards. However, the beauty their veryanxious direct opinions. Whena they about a time, love andThey openwe dialogue with ourinchildren created includes feelings about lack disagreed of connection (NIV).When keep trusting Him, and He will Council. still laugh at each other with each cafeteria line.with of this season in life is that youdays can design itlaughter with asked what was the secret towith loving other. There also where and subject, my father laughed and diffused the tension memories that will last aare lifetime. Intergenerational others. I When will not attempt to address loneliness; fill the void of being alone, because wethe are never your each other through sixty-nine years of marriage, the talking are silent. On those days, Fox News humor, and I witnessed our boys seeking their Papa’s own relationships don’t begin with Ride-sharing services like Uber, Lyft and many personal Forhave me,tothe idea of sitting on the however, I will attempt to address being alone. alone instamp. Him.always they both stated, “Stay busy so you don’t get into anchors are the only voices heard in the apartment. advice more and more each evening. grandparents. They are formed at churches, in thestart workto • Being alone is an opportunity to meet new friends. Through my recent travels, I have discovered such other companies havetrouble!” embraced retirees as vital couch a television show Betty and Mitchell were married at First and watching Mitchell said it best, “What shefrom forgets, I can Intergenerational relationships are key to the future place, in communities and within the family unit. With It takes courage to step out of your comfort strength in Him. I am learning to walk with only one Baptist Church in 1946, and were always involved in remember. When she laughs, I am happy, and even members of their work force. Older adults have great finish is something to look forward to. their church, work, family. They though there were days she likeofme, of our zone, world, not just our country. According to the U.S.two sons. strongspeaking intergenerational interaction, our blue the she and walk across theand street and meet a had new voice into my ear, knowing Hedidn’t will print guide me. work ethic; they tendBoth to be dependable and enjoy theboys, raised by David were strong always Census Bureau,Tony by theand year 2050 the nation’s elderly past will help our loved youngme.” leaders define a clear vision for neighbor. It takes courage to stretch out your a strong, no-nonsense working mother. Betty was socialization and extra will money a part-time job and population more that than double to 88 million, their future. Esmerelda isiscampus manager Esmerelda Lee has worked in the senior loving, but she always made it clear that her sons EsmereldaLee Lee campus manager for Garden for Garden Plaza offor Cleveland, an moreadults frail, over-85 to 19they would affords. Somethe older have actually will used their Plaza of Cleveland, anover independent and assisted living industry sixteen years. would love population education likequadruple she did, and independent and assisted facility living facilityas for seniors.living She operations and her husband She works a divisional for seniors. She and her husband Andrew have three children. 34 // August 34 // 2017 34 2017 // June July specialist forthree Enlivant Andrew have children.Senior Living. 342017 // March 2016
looks like from theirtime perspective. of sleep their with their to by yourself and
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
The Plumb Line
“Thus He showed me, and behold, the Lord stood upon a wall with a plumb line, with a plumb line in His hand. And the Lord said to me, Amos, what do you see? And I said, a plumb line. Then said the Lord, Behold, I am setting a plumb line as a standard in the midst of my people Israel. I will not pass by and spare them anymore, the door of mercy is shut” —Amos 7:7-8 AMPC
L
by Jade Morgan
ately I have been struggling with comparing myself to others. This
Although the Israelites believed in one God and that He ruled the na-
shouldn't come as a surprise, huh? I am a woman. I live in Amer-
tions, and He was their judge, He decided what was done about their
ica; it is 2017, and we are comparing ourselves in a social norm.
sin, and that worship was important. They did not obey God's law.
We engage in the act almost subconsciously. It is normal to an extent as
Therefore, their worship did not bring anything good from God. Amos
far as a checks-and-balances system with ourselves, but what about the
compared their behavior to that of their ancestors. Amos begged God
other ways we compare ourselves? See what is similar or different about
to not reign total judgment on the Israelites; twice God complied. God
them or in order to decide which one is better.
wanted people to behave in a true way instead of sacrifices. Sacrifices
To be honest, I have never really struggled with comparing myself
are good, but behaving in a true way is more important.
physically or ranking my success with others. Sure, there are times I
Which brings us to Amos 7:7-8 (see scripture above).
think, Gosh, I wish I looked like her, or if only I were thinner, or that person
A plumb line? What even? These were my initial thoughts. A plumb line
seriously has it together, why can't I be like that? However, these thoughts are few and far between for me. I am extremely grateful too. I know this is
is an object to which masons first build and frame walls of houses, and by which they do at any time measure them, whether they stand upright, or any way
not a common thing, especially among
belly out and decline. I still did not really
women, a single woman in her thirties
get it. Then, I read that the word plumb
at that. Oh, but God. He has a way
which means to a complete degree;
of showing us that something we
exactly. An example is: "plumb tired."
think we have all figured out is not
Now that was a phrase I knew well.
necessarily so.
Click. I got it. God is measuring the Israelites against the perfect standard,
I rarely struggle with comparing myself to others physically or successfully, but boy, oh boy, do I compare to justify my actions (actions being sin). God revealed this to me the other week, and it was hard for me to even admit to myself how right He was and is. I most definitely contrast the
Jesus. When we sin, we start to bow, decline, or tilt. We lose our vertical alignment. Our standard, or plumb line, is and forever will be Jesus. He was sent to be the perfect example. We cannot compare ourselves to others or compare our sin to
severity or "badness" of my sins or actions to others. For example, I may
others’ sin. We cannot compare to justify our actions. We answer to
be a few minutes late to work, but my mind is saying, Well, this person is
Jesus; He alone judges our sin. We know right from wrong−period.
much later than you all the time, at least you're not as bad as they are, or con-
Just because my sin isn't as "bad" as someone else's does not mean it is
cerning gossip, I mean, yes, I probably should not have said those things about
permissible or accepted. Sin is not weighted differently. The plumb line
that person. At least I don't talk about people like so-and-so does. Seriously, I
(pictured above), when perfectly straight, spins. When it is off-kilter in
do this too often. I find someone "worse" or "more flawed" than I am to
any way, no spinning will occur.
justify my actions. Wow, this is not okay! Last week I felt led to lead a devotion at our women's meeting. I
I once heard this example and the good impact it has made in my life. Think of a big city skyline. All of the buildings are different sizes,
really thought I had the topic all worked out, but God kept this particular
shapes, colors, and so on. Some you notice immediately, some you
issue on my mind for days on end before the meeting. I could not seem
have to look a bit more closely to see, some stick out like a sore thumb.
to find the perfect verse to use, so I asked a few friends for advice on the
That's when we are looking straight at them. What about the view from
topic, and I was led to Amos 7:8. Really, Amos? My thoughts exactly.
above? When God looks down at that skyline from heaven, He sees
Background:
flat, straight across surfaces. None stick out more than others; none are
• Amos was a shepherd and looked after fig trees
bigger or smaller. They all look the exact same. This is like our sin; it is
• He was from Judah
not weighted by our Father in heaven. Conviction looks different for
• God sent him to Israel.
everyone, but ultimately, our hearts know right from wrong.
Jeroboam was king at the time, and Israel became hugely successful. They had full control of the trade routes; thus, becoming crazy rich. The Israelites thought they would always be this way−this successful.
36 // August 2017
Jade Morgan is a 2008 graduate of Lee University, and is in her tenth year at Walker Valley High School as an Inclusion teacher. Jade spends her summers working at Ocoee Outreach, a local home repair ministry, and doing mission work near and far. She is a member of Public Church, where she leads a ladies Community Group and is active in women's ministry, Flourish.
Gò0dNews for Women’s Health
What can Happen if I don’t get my Varicose veins treated?
V
by Dr. James White
aricose veins range in severity from small tread-like spider veins
Compression with graduated support hosiery is important forms
to large ropy veins ... cosmetic to medically significant. There
of therapy for leaky veins. Fortunately, SVT is usually a benign and
are several adverse consequences of untreated varicose veins,
short-term condition. Symptoms generally improve in one to two
and their severity will vary from person to person depending on the
weeks although the firmness of the vein may persist longer. Deep vein
circumstances. Many people who don't treat their varicose veins may
thrombosis (DVT), unlike SVT, can be associated with significant and
experience continued symptoms of pain, fatigue and swelling of the legs
serious medical problems. DVT is often first noticed as a “pulling”
or ankles. Some varicose veins present without symptoms and just look
sensation in the calf of the lower leg, and it can be quite painful.
bad. More advanced medical problems may include hyperpigmentation
Symptoms also include associated warmth, redness and swelling. The
[stains], lipodermatosclerosis[plastic changes of the skin], venous
swelling often extends to above the knee. Some patients are at higher
leg ulcers, spontaneous bleeding, superficial thrombophlebitis, and
risk for developing DVT. These include:
a potentially life-threatening condition called deep vein thrombosis
• Over 60 years of age
[DVT]. The varicose veins themselves are not responsible for the major
• Recent surgery
damages to the body, pooling of the blood is the major problem. Blood
• History of prior DVT
that pools in the varicose veins is depleted of oxygen and nutrients. The
• Prolonged immobility/paralysis
veins also do not tolerate high pressure well and begin to allow red blood
• Malignancy
cells and fluid to leak into the tissues of the leg. This fluid leak causes
• Blood Clotting Disorders
ankle and calf swelling. The red blood cells in the tissues cause chronic
• Obesity
inflammation and the skin becomes dark and discolored-iron stains. The
• Pregnancy and Postpartum
medical term for the dark discoloration is hyperpigmentation.
• Infection
When the skin and the fat under the skin are inflamed for years,
When a diagnosis of DVT is made, anticoagulant treatments are
the tissues become woody and firm. The medical term for this woody,
often started. Anti-coagulation prevents progression of the blood clot,
hard tissue is lipodermatosclerosis. A condition that may occur over
breaks up the clot and prevents the clot from traveling to the lungs. If a
time, when there is chronic venous insufficiency, is a venous leg ulcer.
clot travels to the lungs it is called a “pulmonary embolus.
Hemoglobin driven into the skin under pressure causes inflammation to
Treatment of venous stasis and varicose veins is designed to
the point that the skin becomes thin. This break down causes weeping
destroy the faulty veins causing the blood to be routed through more
ulcers. The ulcers due to varicose veins are painful and difficult to heal.
normal vein pathways back to the heart. Treatment can be completed
Sometimes the ulcers cannot be healed until the backward blood flow in
by the combined therapy with lasers, radiofrequency, sclerotherapy
the veins is corrected with reduction in venous pressure.
and mini surgical stripping [phlebectomies]. The range of severity
Another possible consequence of untreated varicose veins is
of varicose veins is considered when a therapy plan is completed.
spontaneous bleeding from the varicose veins. As the skin over the
Prevention and early management is important to avoid more serious
veins becomes thin, eventually the vein can be exposed to the outside
complications associated with varicose veins. Should I have my veins
world and be easily injured by leg shaving, clothing, bedding, etc. The
treated? Treatment plans depend on the severity of your veins and
blood loss can be significant.
evidence of chronic venous pressure.
Superficial venous thrombophlebitis (SVT) involves inflammation of a vein just below the surface of the skin. The cause of inflammation is not an infection. Rather,inflammation is due to decreased blood flow through the vein, damage to the vein and blood clotting. The features of SVT include redness to the skin and a firm, tender, warm vein. Localized leg pain and swelling may occur as well. Treatment of SVT is directed toward reducing the inflammation.
38 // August 2017
Dr. James E. White is a board-certified General Surgeon by the American Board of Surgery and is a Fellow of the prestigious American College of Surgeons. His office, Advanced Surgical Concepts (ASC) is located at 2290 Ogletree Ave, Suite 112 in the Hamilton Office Park across from the Hamilton YMCA. ASC offers a variety of cosmetic procedures including varicose vein procedures, laser skin resurfacing, facial fillers, minimal invasive surgery and liposculpture. 423-648- 4011 or visit www. advsurgical.com for a complimentary consultation.
Gò0dNews for Everyone
Never Say Never (Part I)
N
God strategically places you in battles for a purpose much bigger than the fight you may face−and He makes everything beautiful in His time. by Jerra Barker
ever say never. Cliche? Maybe. However, there is
him in my head. The only problem was he had a little girl
much truth in that phrase. Growing up, I wasn't
that I adored. So one night I let him talk me into coming
always in church, but I knew of Jesus, I knew there
to see her. Everything was fine. He was nice and I played
was a heaven and a hell, and I knew that the only way to
with her until bedtime. Once she went to bed, I got ready
go to heaven was through Jesus, God's Son. I wasn't a bad
to leave and then it happened again−he raped me. Except
kid. All through school, I played various sports, made the
this time I wasn't drinking; I was painfully sober-minded.
honor grades, stayed out of trouble (other than the typical
I tried to get away until he held me down by my throat
teen attitude), worked once I turned sixteen, and respected
and told me, "You know I can do anything I want to you." I
my parents. I thought I was in control and had it all figured
will never forget the look in his eyes or the weight bear-
out, but as soon as I thought that, I quickly found out how I
ing down on me. I don't even remember getting home
was not in control.
that night. Again, I pushed it away, I shouldn't have been
Land Mines
there. If only I had known the damage holding those things
really venture down to what seemed to be a harmless path.
My Final Poison
It wasn't until my first year of college that I started to
I remember thinking, I'm young. This is when I'm supposed to
inside would do. A few months later I graduated college with my associ-
have fun and make mistakes. You get religious when you're old.
ate degree, and within a few months I decided to move to
Thinking that way was my first mistake down a six-year
Johnson City to attend East Tennessee State University. At
road of land mines. It began with going out drinking with
this point, I was as spontaneous as they come. My parents
friends, sometimes even smoking pot. No big deal? None,
separated not long after I moved. I wanted to blame them.
until the first time I was raped by someone whom I consid-
That was my glue, but it wasn't. I was already self-destruct-
ered a really good friend. I didn't realize what had hap-
ing from within. Not long after being in Johnson City, I
pened until the next morning, and I did nothing. I pushed
started hanging out with a girl I had met on social media.
it aside as my fault for being somewhere I shouldn't be.
She was my final poison.
I went on with my life and continued to party more and more. I ended up in a relationship with a guy I was crazy about until I realized he was not the guy I had made
40 // August 2017
(Continued next month.) Jerra Barker is the mother to a little boy, beginning work with the Chain Breaker jail ministry, and her heart's desire is to reach other women whom have experienced addictions and abuse to open their hearts to healing and a new life by the Grace of God.
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Can’t make it to the event? View a short film, ask questions hear from current foster parents. Chambliss Center for and Children Give us a call, we’ll be happy to talk Growing Young Lives 24 7 365 to you one-on-one. ChamblissCenter.org
Gò0dNews for your Taste Buds
Grandmother’s Spaghetti Pizza by Deanna Key
Ingredients
1-1 lb. box of thin spaghetti 2 jars of Prego spaghetti sauce (your choice of flavor) 2 packages of Hormel pepperoni 2 8 oz. bags of shredded mozzarella cheese 1 lb. of hamburger meat
Directions
1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees 2. Brown your hamburger meat and add the jars of spaghetti sauce. Let it simmer for about 30 minutes. 3. Cook spaghetti noodles according to the directions and drain them. 4. In a 9 x 13 dish, layer the ingredients like you
sauce, cheese, and pepperoni. Continue until you've reached the top of the pan. 5. Bake for 35 to 45 minutes until cheese is bubbly and it has started to brown the slightest bit. 6. Serve with garlic bread and enjoy! Serves 4 to 6 people. This was always a favorite of ours when my cousins and I would spend the night with my grandmother. She is a wonderful cook and was always trying to make meals a little different or fun for us kids. Now that we are grown with kids of our own, we get to fix these same dishes with our children and hopefully pass on a little tradition, as well as the love from where they started.
would for lasagna, starting with noodles,
42 // August 2017
Deanna Key is a 35yr old wife and mother of three children. She has served on foreign missions teams in the past and hopes to one day make that her future for her and her family. She and her husband Caleb balance work and home through alot of support, love and definitely prayer.
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Gò0dNews from the Physician’s Desk
Making Communities Healthier Five Tips to Keep Your Family Healthy During the Hustle and Bustle of the School Year by Debbie Pease, N.P.
T
he dog days of summer are coming to a close, and
But sleep is vital to your overall health and well-being. To
that means it’s time to get ready for another school
ensure you and your family get a good night’s rest, the
year−trading in Saturday afternoons at the pool for
National Sleep Foundation recommends the following:
homework, ballgames, and that seemingly never-ending to-do
● Stick to a regular sleep schedule;
list around the house. As we countdown to the start of the new
● Practice a consistent, calming bedtime ritual;
school year, Starr Regional Medical Center and Athens Family
● Avoid naps, particularly if you have a hard time
Practice want to offer five quick tips to help keep your family healthy and happy. 1. Plan ahead. Figuring out a nutritious meal that your family will enjoy can be tough at the end of a long day. So rather than waiting until the end of each day, plan your
falling asleep; ● Exercise daily; ● Ensure your bedroom is cool and calm; ● Invest in a comfortable mattress and pillow. 4. Wash your hands. One of the easiest ways to keep you
meals–breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks−before the
and your family healthy as the kids head back to school is
workweek begins. Simple tricks include filling your fridge
regularly washing your hands. Train family members to wash
with easy-to-grab fruits and prewashed vegetables for quick
their hands as soon as they enter the house to prevent the
and healthy snacks; cooking and pre-portioning lunches for
spread of germs. Always wash your hands before meals. And
the week; and making sure dinner consists of a lean meat or
remember to avoid touching your eyes, ears, nose or mouth
fish and vegetables for a well-balanced diet. This will save you
whenever possible.
time and energy and make it a little easier to bypass the fastfood chains on your way home. 2. Ditch your digital devices. Smart phones, tablets, and
5. Schedule downtime. An important part of maintaining good health for you and your family is scheduling downtime each week. Aim to have at least one evening each week that is
other digital devices are a big part of daily life, but they can
free of work or after-hours meetings, extracurricular activities
also be a big distraction from your loved ones. Try scheduling
or practices, or just the busyness that comes with running a
time for everyone to ditch the device and connect as a family.
household. Use this time to rest, recover, and get ready for the
This could be anything from establishing a “no-phone zone”
coming week.
each night during dinner, taking a post-dinner walk with the family, or simply “unplugging” the hour before you go to bed. 3. Get plenty of zzz’s. Between work, school, extracurricular activities, sports, cooking, taking care of the house, and everything else that gets crammed into a work week, getting a full night’s rest can sometimes be challenging.
44 // August 2017
At Starr Regional, we are committed to Making Communities Healthier, and we hope these five tips help you and yours stay healthy and happy during the upcoming year. Debbie Pease, NP, is a provider at Athens Family Practice in Athens, TN. The practice is open Monday – Friday, 7:30 am – 5 pm and Saturday 9am – 1pm with walk in access each day. For more information, please call (423) 744-7585.
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
The Sweet, Intimate Word of the Lord
H
If you want to know the Lord’s heart, meditate on His Word, which is His love letter to you. by Judi Marvin
ave you ever taken your Bible and just wandered
Sometimes simply reading scripture out loud to the
through the pages, not really knowing what you
Lord, or better yet, singing it to Him is beautiful. Many of
wanted to read−yet seeking for a scripture to speak
our songs come directly from God’s Word. I think He not
to your heart for that particular day? Perhaps you were joyful, and just wanted to meditate
on scripture that heightened that joy even further. Or, maybe you felt lost, lonely, heartbroken, and needed the Lord to wrap His arms about you through His Word.
only enjoys our prayers to Him, but He loves hearing us read His Word back to Him as well. It helps us to know His heart, and it joins ours with His. See how David’s heart reached out to the Lord: “Praise be to the Lord, for He has heard my cry for mercy. The
The Bible is filled with so many beautiful scriptures
Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in Him,
that bring so much comfort, peace, and boundless joy to
and He helps me. My heart leaps for joy and with my song
our hearts and spirits. Although the Lord speaks to us
I praise Him. The Lord is the strength of His people, a
through His Holy Spirit, His written Word also fulfills
fortress of salvation for His anointed one. Save your people
our every need, our every desire. Yet, how many of us
and bless your inheritance; be their Shepherd and carry
actually take advantage of this wonderful gift from God
them forever” (Ps. 28:6-9 NIV).
when we need it the most? The Bible is His love letter to
We are surely living in the final days preceding the
us, His children. It’s one of the ways He draws us nearer
coming of our Lord and Savior. All the more we should
to His Heart.
be drawing ever nearer to Him, seeking His face, praying,
We read how King David poured out his heart to the Lord through the pages of the Psalms. He enjoyed a close, intimate relationship with the Lord that spilled out on
devouring His Word, loving the brethren, and especially, loving the lost. Do you want to know the Lord’s heart? Meditate on
page after page. He cried out to his Maker . . . sharing his
His Word, His love letter. Enjoy His Word as His sweet
triumphs, joys, heartbreaks, fears, and much more. From
Spirit speaks to you. He’s the only One who can truly fill
his humble beginning as a young shepherd boy to his rise
that emptiness and longing in your heart.
as the greatest king in the entire Bible, David realized that the Lord’s mighty hand was always upon him. Yet, more importantly, David knew he had captured the heart of God. What made David special to the Lord was his broken, contrite spirit, and his repentant heart. David sorrowed over his sins, and that pleased the Lord.
46 // August 2017
Judi Marvin is a native of Michigan and has lived Ocala and Pensacola, Florida. At present, Judi, her husband, Tom, and son, Chase, reside in Riceville, Tennessee. She is the administrative assistant at East Athens Baptist Church.
Your Hearing Is Our Priority. 423.641.0956 ahlbergaudiology.com
H
Mt. Olive Ministries
ow does a church get its start? Sometimes it starts with a whisper of what could be. Sometimes it develops out of a hunger for community. Sometimes - maybe most times - it is birthed from a spirit-gripping, soul-weighting burden to win the lost. Mt. Olive may have been born of all three. In 1901, Meredith Cheek, a farmer near McDonald, TN, left his farm to the Methodist Episcopal Church “for Missionary purposes.” By 1911, the Mt. Olive Methodist Episcopal Church had been erected on a portion of that property. During this same time period, a new movement known as the Church of God established their headquarters and a church in Cleveland. The organization enjoyed rapid growth and additional churches were soon organized in Bradley County, Hamilton County and McMinn County. One of those was the White Oak Mountain Church of God in Ooltewah in 1913. Though not confirmed, it is believed that the Mt. Olive Methodist Episcopal Church was destroyed by fire in 1915 and, because they were unable to rebuild, the pastor abandoned the work. Many of the members of White Oak Church of God lived or had family members in the vicinity of Mt. Olive Methodist. We believe they saw an opportunity to plant a new Church of God work. By December 1917, White Oak had established the Mt. Olive Mission. With the World War I raging in Europe and loved ones leaving to fight, it’s no wonder that the Mt. Olive Mission took root and grew. Neighbors had to depend on each other like they never had before. People were looking for strength, for good news and for hope. According to our oral history, we started out with only a brush arbor for our meetings. By the summer of 1918, the congregation was well on its way to becoming an officially organized church and, in August, the Church of God purchased the property where the Mt. Olive Methodist Church once stood for the sum of $100. An abandoned building was moved to the property and the Mt. Olive Mission became Mt. Olive Church of God on January 1, 1919. Since that time, continued growth resulted in the need for a larger church building on four different occasions. What started as a small work in the country has become a church with influence felt around the globe. Over the years Mt. Olive has become known for several things, but from the beginning we were a church that: ▪ had a burden for the lost, ▪ saw the value of women, children, and youth in ministry, ▪ and understood the importance of worship and the Word. You might be surprised to hear that our first pastor was a woman named Mary Howell. Sister Howell had served as a writer, clerk and evangelist in Alabama. At age 28, after the death of her husband, she moved to Cleveland to attend the Bible Training School. It is clear that Mary Howell was industrious and had a heavy burden for the lost. When officials approached Mary about pastoring two newly organized churches in the country, she accepted the call. On her first Sunday she preached at Mt. Olive that morning, at the home of our church clerk that afternoon and was scheduled to preach at Mineral Park that night. In addition to her pastoral duties, Sister Howell witnessed door to door in the community, wrote tracts for the Church of God Publishing House and articles for the Evangel. She was known as an excellent speaker. One report about her ministry stated: “It was something new to the people to hear a woman preach, but seeing the wisdom and the Spirit of God that was with her they soon concluded that it was right and proper for a woman to preach. Many said they never heard anything equal to it. She preached the Word with boldness and did not fail to declare the whole counsel of God.” Mary Howell set the tone for things to come. Many of our subsequent pastors and church members have been diligent and passionate in their efforts to share God’s Word and His love. Though Gary Sears is credited with our slogan, “A Church to Come Home To,” the idea of “home” is a sentiment that has been associated with Mt. Olive for decades. Early members of our congregation seemed
48 // August 2017
to cherish the work that God was doing and wanted others to experience it. Efforts were made to welcome people of all backgrounds and ages. In 1931, one of our members, Miss Delzie Murray, submitted a letter to the Evangel praising God for the work He was doing at Mt. Olive. She spoke of growing numbers in the youth classes, powerful revival services, and spiritual growth. She closed her letter with a request: “Pray for the Church at Mt. Olive that it will stand and always be a soul-winning station for God.” We believe God heard and has honored that request. Through fellowship and ministry, our congregation truly became like family. Together, with God’s guidance and strength, we weathered the storms of life and the changing times trusting in the power of God to see us through. The late 70s and early 80s were a time of change for our congregation. Continued growth and aging buildings resulted in the need for not only a new church, but also a new parsonage which was paid for by the fundraising efforts of our Women’s Ministry. We added staff members to assist in caring for the flock. We started new ministry efforts to meet the needs of our congregation and community. We set forth and supported missionaries and ministers from our flock. On August 19, 1990, Gary Sears became the pastor of Mt. Olive. Under his leadership, we experienced our greatest growth. On February 3, 1991, we began having two morning services in order to seat everyone. By 1993, it was apparent that a larger sanctuary would be needed and construction began on our current building. Before it was completed, we had to add a third morning service. Finally, on May 8, 1994, Mother’s Day, we all came together under this roof to celebrate everything that God was doing in and through our “little church out in the country.” Since that time our ministries have grown and flourished. We’ve had some amazing opportunities to serve our community. For several years, we were able to produce a television show on local cable called “OK Cleveland” in which we highlighted people and organizations making a positive impact on our hometown. We’ve shown God’s love and shared the Gospel through Operation Kindness events, the Freedom Celebration, OK Kidz, and community-wide youth and children’s events. Our members have continually answered God’s call and used their talents for His glory. But our focus has not been solely on this location. We have endeavored to reach beyond these walls and beyond our county lines. Over the years we have assisted our own Parker family in their ministry to Native Americans. We have supported missionaries in at least ten different countries from Central and South America to Europe, Asia and the Pacific Islands. We planted churches in Texas, Montana, Oregon and Moscow, Russia. We also partnered with a church in Singapore helping them become part of the Church of God denomination, and providing teaching materials and guidance. Looking back, it’s amazing really what God started with one man’s act of kindness. It’s obvious that Meredith Cheek loved the Lord and wanted others to know him. But could he have imagined that his gift would result in the Gospel reaching a city, a county, a country and literally around the world? Did Mary Howell, Delzie Murray and all the other faithful members who started and nurtured this work ever envision all the opportunities we would have to reach the lost, to minister to the hurting, to encourage, to equip and to serve? We will never know on this side of Heaven how many people have been saved, restored, healed and impacted by God through Mt. Olive in the last 100 years. And there is still work to be done – needs to be met, lives to be loved and souls to be won. Mt. Olive has seen 100 years of God’s working, His blessing and His faithfulness. And because God is unchanging we know that, with Him, we can expect a future full of the same. He is still working, still blessing and still ever so faithful. What amazing things will God do with Mt. Olive’s future? Let us join together and be faithful in seeking His face, in loving each other and acting on His word so we can find out.
Join us on August 20 at 10:30 AM as we celebrate 100 years of ministry at Mt. Olive. We have a wonderful celebration planned and there will be a dinner on the grounds following the service. Special Guest Speaker will be Dr. Tim Hill. Make plans to join us for this celebration event! 3522 Harrison Pike - Cleveland, Tennessee 37311 For more information visit mtolivecog.org
Gò0dNews for Everyone
Which Name Do You Go By? “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” —Romans 15:13 NIV
I’
by Sashual Thomas
m Sashual (Joy) Thomas. Some call me Sashual
but of peace” (1 Corin. 14:33 KJV). Ever since I started
and some call me Joy. “Why do I go by two
noticing more and more of this confusion with my
different names, you ask?” One is a family name,
name, I decided, “Why not stick to whatever just comes
which is Joy. My whole family and very close friends
to mind or however I’m introduced because I love both
call me that, and when I was in school, my mom told
of my names.”
me that I used to go by that as well when I was in
Sashual is unique, classy, elegant, bold, fierce,
kindergarten all
sensual, top of
the way until I
the line, and one
was in second
of a kind. Joy is
grade and I
highly favored as
decided to go
an overcomer and
with Sashual. She
an overachiever.
supposed it was
It is bright and
a more mature
always smiling
name for me.
even when there’s
For years
sorrow. I could go
now, I have gone
on and on about
by this rule:
both of my names
Family and close
but to be honest,
friends only call
combined they
me Joy; everyone
make me who I
else calls me Sashual. Someone I met helped change
am today−a mother of three, a devoted wife, and the
my role a bit. His name . . . my wonderful husband,
daughter to the most high King.
Gabriel Thomas, whom I love so much. When I was first
So which name do I go by or prefer? It doesn’t
introduced to people by him, he would say, “And this is
matter. I answer to both; I am both. They are both me
my fiancé, Joy.” I could never get the chance to correct
and made me who I am today. I have overcome battles
him in time. I figured after telling him a few times to tell
and obstacles that a female should have never ever been
them Sashual was my name that eventually everyone
through, but I made it by the grace of God. I’m lucky to
else would pick up this habit. But to my surprise, it
be alive; therefore I’m lucky to be called Joy or Sashual.
actually led to a funny confusion.
Take your pick.
“So I thought you were married to Joy. Who is Sashual?” I crack up at this quite often. I never thought about my name(s) being a source of confusion. I definitely don’t want to be in the same category as the devil. “For [Our] God is not the author of confusion,
50 // August 2017
Sashual (Joy) Thomas is a resident of Cleveland, TN, born and raised. She is the daughter of Jonathan and Brenda Porter and the oldest of five. She is a mother to three beautiful, full of life children and a wife to a devoted husband. She is a full-time student online enrolled at University of Phoenix and will be done with her bachelor of science degree in marriage and family therapy all by the grace of God only, in January. She is also helping her husband youth minister at Omega Center International.
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
A Sad Misunderstanding
M
Don’t allow noise, activity, self-importance, or independence keep you from missing out on time with God. by Beth Henderson
y friend and I had plans to meet for lunch. I arrived at the restaurant early, which is unusual for me, so I sat in my car smiling proudly at my reflection in the rear-view mirror. Feeling a bit smug, I smoothed my hair and touched-up my lipstick. I breathed a happy sigh. Life was good. And because I had time and was feeling a touch more “holier” than usual, I turned on the Christian radio station and sang along with those godly artists, who no doubt also arrive early to meet friends for lunch. After a sufficient three or four minutes of “worship,” I decided I'd help my not-as-early-as-me friend out by going in and getting a table. I'd even order and pay for our meals. Oh, what a wonderful friend am I! So, I called her but got voicemail. “Hey, I'm here early. I just wondered if it might be helpful if I go ahead and order?” I got out of the car and headed inside to find a table. It was the lunch hour after all, and the place was packed. I spied an empty table in the noisy, children’s play area. But a table is a table, and when you only have 45 minutes, you take what you can get. I made my way, watching carefully to avoid tripping over infant carriers, diaper bags, and high chairs. I thought, How glad I am that my children are past this stage. I sat down at a table and waited. The time came and went for my friend to show up. What could be wrong? Where was she?
52 // August 2017
I had been at the restaurant a full half-hour when I decided to call her again. I was reaching into my purse to retrieve my cell phone when it began to buzz. I quickly checked the caller ID. It was her. “Hello?” I asked anxiously. “We've gotten something terribly wrong,” she said. “What? What happened?” I asked, envisioning that disaster had befallen my friend. “I just got your message,” she said. “But I'm already in the restaurant, and I'm already eating.” I took in a quick breath. “Where?” I stood up and turned around. On the quieter side of the restaurant was my friend . . . and her food. I couldn't believe it. She'd been there all along. I just didn't see her. I couldn't help but think of the times in scripture when Jesus was standing right beside someone, and the person just couldn't see Him. I thought of the times I've done the same thing. Noise, activity, self-importance, or independence keep me from seeing the One I claim to seek when He’s already there. I thought how sad it is to miss out on time with Jesus. My friend and I laughed at the silliness of it all, and we had, after all, found each other in time to spend a few minutes together. But we left knowing that our time was too short. Beth Henderson is a grant writer/volunteer for New Hope Pregancy Center.
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
The Blessings of Job
“I
I’ve learned that the source of my blessings are not material. The blessing of Job is knowing what God has for those who remain true to Him. by John Garrod
have heard of you by the hearing of the ear, but
late). We had bills in front of us, bills behind us, and it
was a “baby” Christian first learning the Word
text message.
forNKJV). Couples nowGò0dNews my eye sees you” (Job 42:5 When I seemed they were closing in on us. And then I got the
It wasn’t Publisher’s Clearing House; it was my boss Picking Your Team
of God, I remember reading the Book of Job and having
a distinctive reaction: I got mad at God. (You can do that, telling me heawas down the business. He’d try A whole-hearted commitment can become holyshutting appointment. you know.)
to pay me what he owed me, but no promises when. The by John Garrod only light at the end of our
I
Why did He have to do
recently went back to my Texas roots for a wedding.
may be adversaries in the next game. When you’re a
My wife and four of our six kids went with me; this
team captain, your only goal is to get the fastest, best-
that? I wondered, What did
Job do to deserve was all ofanthe old-style family vacation, but packed into just
tunnel might turn out to be
oncoming hitting talent you could from thean pool available. train. No
misery that gotfour rained down days. It was an opportunity to show them where
If Iwinning still hadthat that same loyalty given, none expected. It’s about
the streets where we played wiffle-ball and on him? In theI grew backup, of my
game and having bragging rights for a little while. “baby” understanding of the
climbed trees, and the schools I attended when, a long
mind, I thought: If God
time ago, I was their age. After 2,300 miles of driving, it
would do that to a man who was time for me to realize just how old I am.
was living right, what And might then there was the wedding to meet family friends of the family, some of whom I haven’t seen He do with me,and a chief among
nature of God, I’d have cried,
early determination was based on physical attraction
thrown a fit, and probably
and a novice understanding of what love is, the decision
used unsanctified was a whole-hearted commitment. This wonderful language woman was to become my mate.(and That’s not the same my wife probably
in decades. As with any large gathering, there were
as dating someone you think is attractive and whose
some couples that had been together for ages. But there
company you enjoy; it’s a holy appointment. Genesis
were also ex-spouses seated at tables with
2:24 says, “Therefore a man shall leave his father and
sinners? It took me a few
years to get over that anger.
It’s a feeling starts while the ex-husband theirthat new spouses, sat acrosswhen the table with theirs. Some of to resurface, usually
I’m
Thirty-two years ago, I made a selection. While that
would have left me in Lowe’s and gone home.) But I had
the blessings Job now. I mother and be joined to his wife, and they shallof become one flesh”(NKJV). Jesus added to this in MarkJob 10: meant 8-9, knew what when
couples I have known most enduringthese a “mini-Job”
saying “So theyhe aresaid no longer two, but in chapter 42: “I have
of my life, and I remember their
one flesh. Therefore, what God has put
trial. But now the feeling
heard of you by the hearing
first weddings. And sadly, in
together, let not man put asunder”
fades in the light of a the years to come, many more
(NKJV).
deeper understanding of there will of the families
of the ear, but now my eye
You.” I’veversus been through It’s asees lifetime of “us”
split, thankson to in the epidemic what was really going
“them,”enough even when “them” is trials to recognize
divorce rate in America.
family or friends who try to
Job’s life. After the curses,
that the source of my blessing
So why do some couples
divide us, emotions that want
Job received blessings that
isn’t the sheep, the cattle, the
last, while others do not?
to overwhelm you, and odds
have nothingDivorce to do with has hitthe half of my
or the children. Those that wantcamels, to defy us. It’s saying
siblings and many sheep and cattle restored at of my friends.
“no” to temptation, turning aThe blessing are just symbols.
simple, theThere’s Book.noYet theyall-inclusive are as real
earGod to thehas devil’s of Job is knowing thatdeaf what for whispers, those who remain
the end of
and as tangible
answer, of course, but I think a lot
defending and praying for each
as the sounds and smells of the increased flocks and
true to Him are things too wonderful for me, which I did
herds in the last chapter of Job. Job now understands the the team. Instead, we go into it with a
not know.
of it has to do with commitment to
heart of God.wiffle-ball attitude.
is a pick-up of It was one ofWiffle-ball those days where game you want to just
baseball played with plastic balls rewind the hours like an old VCR. Let’s cancel today, and bats. Teams were determined by
folks. Our only running vehicle only barely fits that who happened to be outside when
qualification.we My paycheck still hadn’t arrived (5 days started. So while brother may be teamed with brother today, they
32 2017 // December 2016 54 // August
other even when we’re upset with each other. It’s joining hands and
I still didn’t know setting what God planned coursehad for the horizonfor me the obstacles. when I got back in the regardless van that day, but what I did know
put a smile on my face. I am His; I am in His hands; and it’s going to be okay. John is aisfather of six, JohnGarrod Garrod a father of six, husband husband of one, Army veteran, of one, Army veteran, and a resident and a resident of Tennessee. He of He isCleveland a member at South is aTennessee. member at South Church of God. Cleveland Church of God.
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†
MODEL: 5901354
• Choose Kawasaki® FX1000V, Vanguard™ BIG BLOCK™ or Vanguard™ BIG BLOCK™ EFI engine options • iCD™ Cutting System with stripe kit • 61” or 72” cutting widths • Hercules II™ cast-iron mower spindles
• Patented suspension system: Rear adjustable coil-over-shocks and front independent adjustable shocks • Dual commercial Hydro-Gear® ZT-5400 Powertrain® transaxles with 9” cooling fans
Mid-size, Maximum Value
Starting As Low As
8,499
$
†
MODEL: 5901348
• Choose from a Vanguard™ BIG BLOCK™, Vanguard™ 810cc EFI, Vanguard™ 810cc or Kawasaki® FX801V engine options • iCD™ Cutting System with stripe kit • 61” or 52” cutting widths
• Patented suspension system: Rear adjustable coil-over-shocks and front independent adjustable shocks • Dual commercial Hydro-Gear® ZT-4400 transaxles with 8.3” cooling fans
Outstanding Value and Productivity
Starting As Low As 1310 Railroad Ave • Athens, TN 37303
(423) 745-9296 Mon. – Fri.: 8am – 5pm Sat.: 8am – 12pm www.athenslawn.com
6,199
$
†
MODEL: 5901265
• Choose from Briggs & Stratton Commercial Series™, Vanguard™ 810cc, Kawasaki® FS, or Kawasaki® FS EFI engine options • iCD™ Cutting System with stripe kit • 61” or 52” cutting widths
• Patented suspension system: Rear coil-over-shocks and pivoting front axle • Dual commercial Hydro-Gear® ZT-3400® transaxles with 7” mounted cooling fans
† All loans subject to approval. Tax, set-up, and delivery fees not included. Models subject to change without notice. *Offer applies only to single-receipt qualifying purchases. A promo fee will be charged and included in the promo purchase balance equal to $150. No monthly interest will be charged on promo purchase balance (including related promo fee) and equal monthly payments are required equal to 2.083% of initial promo purchase amount until promo is paid in full. The equal monthly payment will be rounded to the next highest whole dollar and may be higher than the minimum payment that would be required if the purchase was a non-promotional purchase. Regular account terms apply to non-promotional purchases. For new accounts: Purchase APR is 26.99%; Minimum Monthly interest Charge is $2. Existing cardholders should see their credit card agreement for their applicable terms. Subject to credit approval.
NISSAN OF Cleveland a Sonic Automotive ÂŽ Dealership
WHAT IS BETTER DEALING? A completely transparent buying experience
Active Trade Appraisals
Lifetime warranty on all new vehicles
Lifetime Warranty
Technology driven process
National Inventory
Looking to Trade in? Our Active trade appraisal process ensures that you are involved the entire time so that you are well educated on your vehicle's value.
Nissan of Cleveland includes a Lifetime Warranty as an added perk with the purchase of a new Nissan vehicle, if you buy it here.
As a part of the Sonic automotive group, we have access to over 8000 pre-owned vehicles online. We carry all makes and all models to help nd your perfect car today.
One to One Rewards
Sonic Price
Credit Building
We OOer Nissan's One to One Rewards Program - the program that rewards you with every visit! Get discounts and special ooers from more than 300 online retailers.
We are the dealership you can trust. You don't need to be a great negotiator to get fair and competitive pricing. - Just shop at Nissan of Cleveland!
At Nissan of Cleveland, you have options. Just speak with our car nancing experts to nd out more. If you have had any credit bumps along the way, or rebuilding credit, we can help!
Technology
Additional Beneets
VPP
Vehicle Purchase Program Eligible participants can drive away in a brand-new vehicle for a hassle-free, pre-negotiated price. Employees of our valued business partners are eligible to receive the beneets of this program.
Our proprietary technology helps streamline the process to get you on the road faster.
NISSAN OF Cleveland
Complimentary Carwash, Free Shuttle Service, Free Wi-Fi, and relax in the comfort of our waiting area while your car is being serviced.
(844) 302-4084
a Sonic Automotive ÂŽ Dealership
131 Pleasant Grove Rd, McDonald, TN 37353
www.ClevelandNissan.com