Gò0dNews December 2016
Complimentary
Christian Magazine
Cleveland
• Who Am I? p. 14 • Picking Your Team p. 32 • Just Believe p. 50
And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain... Revelation 21:4
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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
O
ne of the most popular Christmas songs says, “Joy to the world, the Lord is come.” Because of the things we have to do during the holiday season—shopping, decorating, attending banquets, parties, and other church activities—sometimes Christmas includes everything but joy. So do we really celebrate Christ’s coming with joy? A few years ago I read a book by Jeff Walling titled Daring to Dance With God that explained how we discover early in life the importance of holding on to something—our mother’s hand, the coffee table, or anything else our little hands can grasp. This insecurity is seen later in life as we cling to control and security for all we’re worth. We clutch power and property till our knuckles turn white. So the very act of celebrating demands that we first let go of everything else and take God’s hand. When we do, three things must be released before the dancing can begin. 1. We must let go of fear. But where shall I put this fear if I do let go of it? The apostle Peter encourages us to put it in the only place that’s fitting—the Father’s hand. “Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you” (5:6-7). 2. We must let go of the reins. The moment we truly let go and give God control is when we feel the joy and release that only comes when we’re no longer in charge. Releasing control brings freedom, energy, and drive to dance in celebration with the One to whom we’ve resigned the wheel. 3. We must let go of guilt. Feeling guilty and dancing are mutually exclusive activities. Dancing is joyous by nature; guilt is depressing by nature. This may sound easier to do than letting go of the reins, but many Christians find it the most difficult release of all. When we fall, He goes to great lengths to restore us to an upright position—but only if we take His hand. If we adopt an “I’d-rather-do-it-myself” attitude, we block His hand from rescuing us. Even if our knees are bruised from stumbling and our shins bloody from unexpected tumbles, we can depend on Him to correct every “misstep,” because He loved us enough to become one of us. So during this Christmas season, go ahead . . . celebrate! Accept His hand. The dance floor is empty and He’s waiting for you! 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 14
GoodNews from the Pastor’s Desk
6 Are All Believers Called to Be SAINTS? by Mike Shreve
GoodNews for Kids
8
The Shepherds Journey to Welcome the Christ Child by Carl Corser
GoodNews on Money Matters
10 “What if We Gave Every Baby $1,000?” by Andrew Lee
GoodNews for Men
12 Who Wants to Be a Caveman? by Robert Green
GoodNews for Women
14 Who Am I?
by Rhiannon Skeen GoodNews for Parents
20 In the Eyes of God, Not the World by Bethany Ruckman GoodNews for Life
22 Faithful to Her Promise by Delaney Walker
28
GoodNews for Health & Fitness
50
GoodNews for Everyone
24 Habits of Healthy Couples 40 Everyone Needs a Crisis by Hannah Davis GoodNews for Teens
26 Teens and Their Family Lives by Fernando Alejandro GoodNews Cover Story
28 Nissan of Cleveland by Emily Bangura GoodNews for Everyone
30 The World Is Made Holy
by Mead Vest GoodNews for your Taste Buds
42 Christmas and Chocolate by Angie Parris GoodNews from the Physician’s Desk
44 Learning from Football by Dr. James Marcum GoodNews for Everyone
46 Maybe Kid’s Church Is the
through Thanks
Main Service (Part 2)
by Julius McCarter
by Chris Knipp
GoodNews for Couples
32 Picking Your Team by John Garrod GoodNews for Seniors
34 Looks like Miss Daisy’s turn to take the wheel by Esmerelda Lee
GoodNews for Everyone
36 A Promise Kept!
by Dr. William Lamb GoodNews Christmas Activity
38 What Is Advent?
by Danielle Jennings
GoodNews for Grandparents
50 Just Believe
By Darlene Lofty GoodNews for Everyone
52 Victorious Living (Part 2 of 2)
by Kelly McDonald Jr. GoodNews from the Outdoors
54 Take a Kid Hunting by Rusty Asble
Gò0dNews from the Pastor’s Desk Are All Believers Called to Be SAINTS?
T
by Mike Shreve
he word saint has traditionally been used to refer only to Christians who reach a high degree of dedication to God. However, the following scripture throws the gate wide open all those who love the Lord: “To the church of God which is at Corinth, to those who are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be SAINTS, with all who in every place call on the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, both theirs and ours (1 Cor. 1:2 NKJV).” In this verse, three simple criteria are offered for “sainthood”: (1) Belonging to “the church of God”—The word church is from the Greek word ecclesia (pronounced ek-klay-see’ah) meaning called-out ones. Therefore, it is comprised of all those who have been truly called out of a life of sin into a life of consecration to God; (2) Being “sanctified in Christ Jesus”—The word sanctified has a double meaning: first, being cleansed from the defilement of sin, and second, being dedicated to the purposes of God; (3) Calling on “the name of Jesus”—in other words, living a life of daily communion with the Savior of all mankind. So all who have been born again, regardless of denominational affiliation, are not only invited, but included in “the assembly of the saints” (Ps. 89:5 NKJV). Wow! In an age of much spiritual compromise, isn’t this a challenging idea to embrace?
6 // December 2016
SANCTIFIED PEOPLE BECOME SAINTS
Sainthood and sanctification are inseparably interwoven, because a saint is simply someone who is sanctified. This initially comes as a gift from God. As soon as we confess Jesus as Lord of our lives, a number of sanctifying influences work together to present us “holy unto the Lord.” At that glorious moment of spiritual rebirth, we are: • “sanctified by the truth” (Jn. 17:19 NKJV) • “sanctified by faith” (Ac. 26:18 NKJV) • “sanctified by the word of God and prayer” (1 Tim. 4:5 NKJV) • “sanctified . . . in the name of the Lord” (1 Cor. 6:11 NKJV) • “sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all” (Heb. 10:10 NKJV). • “sanctified by the Holy Spirit” (Ro. 15:16 NKJV) • “sanctified by God the Father” (Jude 1:1 NKJV) • “sanctified” by the blood of Jesus (Heb. 13:12 KJV) However, claiming sainthood from the very start of our walk with God is almost like asserting that an acorn is really an oak tree. It is, but it isn’t. It may have the identity and the potential, but to really be an oak tree in a manifested way, that acorn has to “fall into the ground and die,” then spend a good deal of time growing (see John 12:24). And so it is with us. All believers have the identity and the inheritance of being saints, but to really be saints in a valid and viable way (to fully realize this inner potential), we must die to self, die to the world, and die to sin. Then we must spend a good deal of time growing in God, yielding to His nature and fulfilling His will. Then we emerge in the very character of the “King of saints” Himself (Rev. 15:3 NKJV). This should be our goal every single day.
Mike Shreve has been teaching God’s Word since 1971. He has authored 14 books including the best-selling “65 Promises from God for Your Child” and a new book on the names and titles of God's people, titled “WHO AM I? Dynamic Declarations of Who You Are in Christ.” He and his wife, Elizabeth, pastor The Sanctuary in Cleveland, TN. www.shreveministries.org
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Gò0dNews for Kids The Shepherds Journey to Welcome the Christ Child Viewed by “Little Lamb” by Carl Corser
I
t was a crystal clear night as our shepherds were watching
excitement, "Let's go to Bethlehem to see this wonderful baby
us, keeping a close eye on us, making sure no harm came
the angels told us about!"
near us. Then suddenly, someone appeared out of nowhere.
He looked similar to my shepherds, but I knew he couldn't be a shepherd. I heard my shepherds saying words of astonishment
Suddenly, I heard my shepherds call out, "Come on, sheep and lambs! Let's go find this baby, the Christ child." So we went on our journey to find this wonderful baby.
and shock. Instantly, this brightness came and shone all around
When we got there, I heard my shepherds say one to another,
them. All my shepherds gathered together with fear griping
"Sure enough, this is exactly what the angel told us."
their hearts to find out what was happening. Then I heard them say, "What do you want from us?" "I'm an angel of the Lord from above. I bring good tidings
"The angel said we would find him here, and here He is. Isn't He a beautiful baby? Mom and Dad's eyes are gleaming with joy. God hath given them the Promised One."
of great joy. Be not afraid. There's nothing
The shepherds told everyone around about
wrong. Calm down. Take it easy."
the surprise visit they had out in the
I saw their faces relax and a
pasture. They explained all that the
peaceful calm came upon them as
angel said to them and about the big
the angel shared with my shepherds
host of angels that sang so clearly,
the terrific news. "A baby is born
"Glory to God in the highest, and on
today in David's city—a Savior,
earth, peace, good will toward men."
Christ the Lord."
As our shepherds finished
As all this was happening,
telling the wonderful story,
my fellow lambs gathered around
I saw everyone's eyes filled
with their attention focused on our
with amazement and joy. It was
shepherds. Wow! What a sight!
a beautiful sight for us lambs to
The angel continued to tell my
behold.
shepherds that they would find the
Our shepherds stayed for a while,
baby wrapped in warm clothing, lying in a manger at the stables. Suddenly, as the angel finished speaking the terrific news,
and then I heard the call again: "Let's go back to the pasture!" But this time my shepherds were singing, praising, and
there was lots of someones appearing that looked like the
glorifying God in the highest for all the things they had seen
angel, and they made noise. I saw my shepherds flinch with
and heard. They rejoiced during the complete journey back to
surprise again. We, too, were ready to run for fear.
the pasture.
Soon the noise became clear and I heard them saying,
You know, there was something different about my
"Glory to God in the highest, and on earth, peace, good will
shepherds from this exciting event. They were so gentle with
toward men" (Luke 2:14 KJV). That means peace and goodwill
us. They protected us more diligently from danger than they
toward my shepherds. Listen, lambs; that will benefit us too.
had before. If everyone could see Jesus like my shepherds did,
Well, the excitement was soon over, because all the angels left, disappearing into the night sky. "Where did the angels go?"
they too would be different people. Thank you, Lord, for this wonderful, wonderful event.
I asked, but, my question was left unanswered. My shepherds began saying to one another with
8 // December 2016
Carl Corser is an Ordained bishop, vice president of the Gideons Cleveland North Camp, Peach State board of directors and Chaplin, owner of Corser Enterprises Roll-Off and A+ Sheet Metal.
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“What if We Gave Every Baby $1,000?” 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.
S
ome may remember an ambitious economic pro-
source of income. If $15,000 annually is your main source
posal back in the 1990’s called “KidSave.” KidSave
of income, that’s a pretty lean retirement. Besides keep-
was one proposal to save our broken Social Security
ing the lights on and buying groceries, you’re not doing
system which is rapidly facing insolvency unless significant
much else. Let’s assume that the average retiree receives
changes are made. The idea of KidSave was for the govern-
those Social Security checks every month over a 20-year
ment to invest $1000 for every newborn baby, and then
retirement. That’s only about $330,000-$350,000 even after
allow that money to grow during the baby’s entire working
adjusting for the cost-of-living increases over those years.
lifetime until age 67. What could be the result? That’s the
In other words, the KidSave proposal would provide our
exciting part: assuming the $1000 was invested in a broad
children and grandchildren with roughly twice the amount
stock market index fund that included large, midsize, and
of money in retirement as our current Social (in)Security
small companies, both U.S. and international, how large
program. Opponents of the KidSave idea may skeptically
could the account balance grow from that tiny $1000 initial
suggest that these investment accounts might not attain
investment, assuming the markets meet their past averages
their annual ten percent average total returns in the future.
over the last century of approximately ten percent annual
Fair enough. But think about the perils of doing nothing:
return? The answer is nearly $600,000. Imagine if every
any accountant with a working calculator can show you
American (starting with the newborns today) had $600,000
that the current Social Security program will be able to pay
in an account when he or she retired. Even adjusted for in-
out only 75% of benefits starting in the next decade or two.
flation, that’s a lot of money. Let’s compare this proposal to
So imagine those monthly Social Security checks decreased
our current situation. The average net worth of all Ameri-
by one-fourth moving forward. Ouch.
cans today is merely $37,000 per person. This includes all of
So why didn’t the KidSave idea ever become law?
the billionaire, ultra-rich people. If you exclude billionaires,
That’s hard to say, but it would make for a fascinating
the average net worth drops tremendously. Furthermore,
book idea or research project (maybe some of my students
the average Social Security check today is only $1300 per
can be persuaded to research this for their research topic
month, or $15,000 per year. Remember, that’s an “average,”
coming up). The idea had broad support in Congress from
meaning many people receive less than this. And nearly
both Democrats and Republicans. Obviously, I think it’s a
61% of current retirees say Social Security is their main
wonderful idea that should at least be given a chance. My
10 // December 2016
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Gò0dNews for Men
Who Wants to Be a Caveman?
We need a new breed of men, cave dwellers, who are ready to throw off mainstream society’s chains and stigmatisms and embrace the ideals of God-given manhood. by Robert Green
C
aveman? Not the Fred Flintstone kind or the club-carrying,
over her, but sacrificially gives himself fully to her by laying his life
spear-hunting, cave-painting, Neanderthal of a man. I’m
down in service to her. This is the highest and most honorable form
referring to the disillusioned band of misfits who followed
of leadership, and it finds its origin in Christ’s passionate sacrificial
David, the giant slayer, into the Cave of Adullam and came out as “Men of Valor” (see 1 Sam. 22). This cave was where David sought
love for the church in that He gave His life for it. 2. The “spiritual caveman” is marked by growing through
refuge from Saul who was on a search-and-destroy mission to kill
accountability. Isolation is the first sign of a dying man. Biblical
him. It turns out that David passed up several opportunities to kill
masculinity is not afraid of transparency and vulnerability
Saul while hiding out in this cave. These bandits found rest in the
that comes through accountability. Men who seek the cave are
cave and experienced a powerful transformation as they morphed
submitted to a band of brothers who flee from isolation and seek
into “Mighty Men.” This brotherhood of spiritual cavemen became
connection. Cave dwellers are men who have found freedom in
renowned throughout Israel for their deeds of valor. If ever there is a
confession and understand that, in their weakness, Christ can be
time in history that manhood needed the cave, it’s now!
made strong. They sharpen their blades with other men before
Listen to David as he is giving his son Solomon his dying words and exhortation of manhood in 1 Kings 2:1-3: “As David’s time to die drew near, he charged Solomon his son, saying, I am going the way of all the earth. Be strong, therefore, and show yourself a man” (NASB). Authentic manhood has been under attack for many decades, and this present generation has traded the cave for comfort and convenience. The
they go off to battle (see Pro. 27:17). They are open to correction and rebuke because they know that it will help them “. . . stand firm in the faith” (1 Cor. 16:13 NASB). 3. The most identifiable mark of cave dwellers is they are marked by love. Paul gives the men in Corinth a pointed command toward biblical masculinity that comes across almost like a rapid-fire burst of directives in 1 Corinthians 16:13-14. Verse 14
entertainment industry and the press have marginalized
conveys that the power of manhood is wrapped up in
and portrayed men as buffoons, mama’s boys, and
his ability to love deeply. He says, “Let all that you do
worse. Sadly, many men have quietly bought into
be done in love.” This is the real litmus test for biblical
these characterizations, giving up their status as
manhood. The call is to do everything in love. This
leaders, providers, and champions of worthy causes.
means to discipline our children in love. It means to
Worse yet, the church has feminized its rituals and has
treat aliens and foreigners with love. It means to treat
emasculated worship by creating a safe and risk-free religious experience. We need to adhere to the call of David and show ourselves as men. I think there are three key marks of a
our enemy or opponent with love. To know the measure of a man, see how well he loves God, himself, and others. I’m calling for members to join the Caveman’s Club Fraternity where real men no longer shun their leadership
cave-dweller that help to bring definition to authentic
roles as father, husband, and spiritual director; where
biblical masculinity and give us an opportunity to show
men are ready to serve their wives and children the
ourselves as men. 1. Real biblical masculinity is marked by men who neither shuck leadership nor abdicate their leadership
way Christ loved the church and where men submit to accountability and a commitment to sharpen other men. This is what it means to show yourself a man!
role but rise to the call to lead. This isn’t some pitch for bravado machoism but a call to positional God-given leadership (see Eph. 5). This leadership must first find a resting place in our homes, then the church and around our community. When a man puts a ring on a women’s finger, he becomes the lead pastor. He doesn’t lord this
12 // December 2016
Robert Green leads the Caveman’s Club, an outreach Men’s Ministry of the Westmore Church of God and is the Ocoee Region Area Director for the Fellowship of Christian Athletes.
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Gò0dNews for Women
Who Am I?
Isn’t that the ever-present question in many people’s minds?
O
by Rhiannon Skeen
ur pastor recently spoke
humanity, with you and me, He
intimate with the One who got
about how decisions
stopped everything, reached down,
intimate with us when He formed us
determine destiny. The
and took the time to put us together.
out of dust.
decisions we make determine
Just think about that. Humanity
The search for who we are can
where our life will lead. If we walk
was so dear to God's heart He put
be cut short if we stop and realize
around in a haze for most of our
His hands in the dirt and molded
whose we are. Once we have that
lives seeking to “find ourselves,”
every part of us. Out of everything
understanding, then God can begin
we might not get around to
He created—sun, moon, stars,
to release our purpose to us. Our
understanding why we are here.
animals, water, flowers, cells,
decision to know God determines
Knowing who we are should only
organisms, all of it—He only took
our destiny.
come from one source—the One
the time to form us. He spoke it all
who created us.
into being until He got to humanity
Sometimes they come through trial
and then He got intimate and took
and error. That is okay. The most
only one time God got messy?
the time to form every cell and
important thing to do is to keep
There was one time He put His
organ.
going. God has not and will never
Do we realize that there was
Answers are not easy.
hands into the dirt and decided to
If we set out in life to search
give up on you, so don't give up
play in the mud. That one time was
for who we are before knowing the
on Him. It may take three failed
when He formed humanity. Let's
One who made us, we will come up
attempts to find the one thing that
go deeper than that. If we look at the account of Creation, there was only
empty. Sure, we can find jobs that we enjoy, families that help us feel
fits, but it is better to try than to quit. So who are you? You are a child of the Most High King, fearfully and
one time He actually
happy, and ways
wonderfully created for great works
formed anything.
to pass the time
through Christ Jesus. Why does
Yes, only once did
in life. But
it matter? Because God has great
He physically reach
nothing will
things in store for those who love
down to mold
ever truly
Him and are called according to His
something. With
answer that
purpose (Rom. 8:28 NIV).
every other thing
deep longing
in existence, He
until we get
simply spoke and it was so. But with
14 // December 2016
Rhiannon Skeen is a Lee University graduate, a wife, a new mother, and the creator/administrator of www.whatsoeverislovelyliving.com. She and her husband are in full-time ministry with Global Apostolic Revival Network (www. GARN.tv). They are passionate about spreading the love of God and seeing heaven invade earth.
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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 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) 472-0932 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 Center Point Baptist Church 1205 Lower River Rd NW Charleston, TN 37310 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 (423) 472-7606 Elkmont Baptist Church
16 // December 2016
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 Location: YMCA at 10:00am Fairview Baptist Church 5545 Runway Dr NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 790-5353 First Baptist Church 1275 Stuart Road Cleveland, Tennessee 37312 (423)709-9100 or clevelandfbc.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 Rolling Brook Baptist Church 1675 Greendale Dr NE Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 472-0612 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 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 Pastor Mark Strickland 695 S Ocoee St, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-2642 or ccfchurch.us
Church of God Agape Place Church of God Pastor John and Melanie Arias 2611 Blue Springs Road SE Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-8691 Cornerstone Church of God Pastor Rick and Lori Sentell 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 Pastor John A. Lombard Jr. 900 15th St NE Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 479-3389 Fellowship of Praise Church of God Pastor Selma Hall 931 Inman Street East Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 479-3121 or fellowshipofpraisecog.org Grace Community Church of God Pastor Kevin Mendel 4745 Mouse Creek Road NW, Cleveland, TN 37312. (423) 614-0708 or www.gracecleveland.org Heritage Fellowship Church of God Pastor Steve Gilbert 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 Lakeview Church of God Pastor Dustin Wilds
105 Pound Street S.E. Cleveland, TN 37323 (423)-790-5805 or lakeviewcog.org North Cleveland Church of God Dr. Mark Williams 335 11th St NE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-5513 or nccog.org Michigan Avenue Church of God Rev. David B. Boles 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 (423) 472-6925 South Cleveland Church of God Pastor Edwin Lipsey 1846 Volunteer Dr SW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-6382 or southcleveland.org Westmore Church of God Pastor Kelvin Page 2412 Wolfe Dr NW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 559-9646 or www.westmorecog.org Zion Assembly Church of God Pastor Kim Erwin 5512 Waterlevel Hwy, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 476-3337 or zionassemblychurchofgod.com
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 Pastor Michael Ferree 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 Pastor Tazz Reid 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 Pastors Jamie and Judy Jacobs Tuttle 523 Urbane Rd. NE Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 790-5200 DPCI.TV Evening Light Gospel Dr. Donald E. Smith, Jr. 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 Pastor Evan Cockerham 930 25th Street, NW Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 339-3028 or thelovingchurch.com 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 Pastors Mike & Elizabeth Shreve 1203 Smith Dr. Cleveland, TN 37311 (423)478-2843 / shreveministries.org United Christian Church Pastors Charles and Margie Poteat 2200 Peerless Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 479-4277 Unity Christian Ministries Pastor Aubrey Ector 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 Rev. Kevin Wilson 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
issuu.com/goodnewscm // 17
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 // December 2016
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 Emmanuel Church 1905 Congress Parkway S. Athens, TN 37303 423-745-0851 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
Church Activities & Events The Sanctuary
2017 Vision Conference - Bold As A Lion
First Lutheran Church
Candlelight Holy Communion
January 19-21, 2017 (Thurs. 7pm, Fri. 10:30am & 7pm, Sat. 10:30am) Hosted by: Mike and Elizabeth Shreve For more information call our ministry office: 423-478-2843 or email us at info@shreveministries.org. Boldly claim your inheritance in God and boldly pursue your destiny!
Holy Name of Jesus - New Years
St. Therese Catholic Church
Peerless Road Church
THREE KINGS FEAST
Saturday, December 3, 2016 The meal will be served from 11:30-1:30 PM. Monetary Donations: This helps cover the cost of gifts, food and supplies. Donations will be accepted at the church office during office hours. Large Blankets: Preferably Queen & King sizes (no throws please). Place the blankets in the boxes in vestibule or bring to the office, until December 2nd. Desserts: Cakes, pies, cookies, etc. These should be brought to the PLC Kitchen on Saturday, by 10:00 AM. Apples/Oranges: For our guests. Please bring them to the office the week of the Feast. They are needed by 10:00 AM on December 3rd. Help at the Feast: Everyone who can help is requested to be in the gym by 10:00 so that team leaders can get their teams organized.
Living Word Church
Kids Town Christmas Program
Sunday, December 11, 2016 10:30am – 12:00pm The children’s Christmas program will be Sunday, December 11th during the Sunday morning service. More details to come!
First Baptist of Cleveland All Things Mom
Wednesday, December 7 • 6:00 pm – 7:15 pm • Free All Things Mom is an event to join with other moms for fellowship and intentional discussion about being a mom. Hear from special guest speakers at each event and grow in life alongside local mothers as part of the First Baptist Cleveland family! Register online.
North Cleveland Baptist Church FAMILY PROMISE
FAMILY PROMISE will be hosted in the Annex December 4-11. Jay is beginning to coordinate some of the duties that go along with this in house ministry opportunity. If you would like info on how you can get involved, please sign up on the tear off and Dr. Jay will send you the information.
The Church at Grace Point Ladies Christmas Tea Sunday, December 11, 2016 2:00pm – 5:00pm
December 24th - 7pm - Christmas Eve
Festival of Christmas
December 25th - 10am - Christmas Day January 1, 2017 - 10 am
Ladies Christmas Brunch in the Atrium December 2nd
Serve Food Distribution in the Gymnasium December 3rd - 12:00 Noon
Kids Christmas Musical Sunday Morning Encounter December 4th
Extravaganza- Kids Christmas Shopping Experience December 7th
Seniors Christmas Banquet in the Atrium December 10th - 4:00pm
Adult Christmas Musical- Sunday Morning Encounter December 11th
Christmas Fellowship in the Gymnasium December 11th - 6:00pm
Christmas Blessing in the Hospitality Room December 15th - 6:00 p.m
Serve Food Distribution in the Gymnasium December 17th - 12:00 Noon
Advent Service- 10:45 Encounter December 18th
Family Communion- Drop-In Service in the Sanctuary December 25th - Christmas Day
South Cleveland Baptist Church Christmas Music Program
Sunday, December 11, 2016 - 10:30am
Children’s Christmas Program (PM Service) Sunday, December 11, 2016 - 6:00pm
Westmore Church of God
A Westmore Family Room Christmas
Saturday, December 10th at 7pm and Sunday, December 11th at 10 am, you are invited to a Westmore Family Room Christmas featuring the Sanctuary Choir and Orchestra with Student Choir, Drama Team, Interpretive Dance Teams, Youth Ensemble and a Christmas Pageant with Carols. You will experience a powerful blend of heart-stirring music, drama, and interpretive dance that will transport you back to the very first Christmas in Bethlehem. Come let us “Adore” the birth of Jesus Christ, our Savior, here at Westmore.
Gò0dNews for Parents In the Eyes of God, Not the World
Are you teaching your children to be God-fearing warriors who will stand up for God even if it means not having approval from their friends?
"A
by Bethany Ruckman
m I now trying to win the approval of human
I can't tell you how many parents and teens have
beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please
teased them for their decision or pressured them to change
people? If I were still trying to please people,
their minds. If they were doing it for the approval of
I would not be a servant of Christ" (Gal. 1:10 NIV). “Cue
others, they would have changed their minds, but they are
the crickets,” or at least that’s how I felt when I read this
choosing to focus on a closer relationship with God before
last week. This verse can apply to everything we do, but I
a close personal relationship with a boyfriend or girlfriend.
wanted to focus on how we are raising our children. Ask
My husband and I have had numerous conversations
yourself: “Am I training up
and go deep into prayer
my children to try to win
about what is best for our
the approval of their peers
children, as I am sure you
or God? Is social status
have. There are days we
important? Why are they
feel so strongly that we
working so hard to be the
are on the right path with
best at their sport? Who do
something then—bam—a
they play their music for?”
test! Tests are tough my
I get it; I really do,
friends, not a little pop
and there is nothing better
quiz. It’s a true test of
than watching our children
perseverance to do what is
succeed at something they
pleasing to God. Then the
have worked so hard for.
questions come back: “Am I
It is so exciting when the
showing them to be God-
once ear-piercing sound that
fearing warriors who will
once filled the house during
stand up for God, even if
music practice is now beautiful and identifiable as a song. It warms my heart to see my older kids gathered with a
that means not having approval from their peers?” Yikes. What a responsibility. Maybe, I will just crawl under
group of friends. It shows me that they are building bonds,
my bed and hide because the task at hand seems almost
and that all of the embarrassing habits we all might display
impossible. No, I can't; I will not. We cannot compromise
at times in our house can actually be left at the house, and
what is good in the eyes of the Lord to help our kids be
they can go out into society and be civilized.
popular. We cannot sacrifice time with God to spend all
Here's the kicker that we as parents must consider:
of our time to get them to star-athlete status. We cannot
“Do we care more about them fitting in than we are willing
forget that musical talent is a gift from God that is meant
to overlook that maybe the friendship might not help them
to be used for His glory. First Corinthians 10:31 says, "So
draw nearer to Christ. We must think about this. Even
whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all
Christian friends can be unhealthy friendships. Two of
for the glory of God" (NIV). Stay strong warrior parents,
our children are in youth groups, and they have made the
stay strong!
decision not to date for a while. Instead, they are waiting for a more meaningful relationship when the time is right. This is not accepted by most teens, Christian or nonChristian, or even parents for that matter.
20 // December 2016
Bethany Ruckman is a wife, mom of 4, and a registered nurse. She can be reached by email at sunbird9922@hotmail.com.
Challenge! OUR TEACHERS WILL SEE YOUR CHILD FOR WHO THEY ARE AS WELL AS WHAT THEY COULD BE.
An academy of excellence...
UNITED CHRISTIAN ACADEMY United Christian Academy has excellent teachers who care—experienced teachers committed to equipping students with the skills to pursue their dreams and face the challenges of life with confidence. In partnership with parents, we are dedicated to providing a strong academic foundation that recognizes the individual learning style of each child while promoting academic excellence, creativity, independence, and spiritual growth. (423) 478-2500 ucacademyinfo.com
423.478.2500 · ucacademyinfo.com
Gò0dNews for Life Faithful to Her Promise Life is sacred—no matter its circumstances. by Delaney Walker
S
he looked to be about fourteen. Her thick, black
her side, and for some reason, this seemed to make her
hair was pulled back from her face to reveal a
neighbors all the more disgusted. She could explain the
pair of dark eyes. She stared off into the distance;
situation, but it seemed unlikely they would believe
her forehead creased as she mulled over recent events. Although slight, her stomach protruded enough
to reveal the beginnings of a pregnancy bump. Her left hand curved protectively around her middle. An air of quiet confidence surrounded the girl.
the truth. Some days even she had to pinch herself to make sure she wasn’t in a dream. “Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God,” the angel had said to her. “You will
Her family was not happy, to say the least. The
conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call
once friendly smiles from her neighbors had turned
him Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son
into contemptuous looks. Strangers in town whispered
of the Most High” (Luke 1:30-32 NIV).
loudly when their paths crossed. Sometimes it seemed
She remembered telling the angel she was the
they almost hoped she would hear, as if their words
Lord’s servant. “May your word to me be fulfilled”
would somehow teach her a lesson she had missed. At
(Luke 1:38 NIV), she had said before the angel
times, it looked as if they wanted to kill her.
disappeared. She had meant those words, and still
In her womb grew a baby. As a young girl, she had imagined her husband making the announcement with pride
did, but some days she had to close her eyes and remember—remember the promise. Remember the purpose. Remember the Lord’s will. And thank God, Mary was faithful to her promise. This Christmas, once again we have the opportunity
in his eyes.
to celebrate the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ, who
Their families
was in every way a human. He faced temptations, He
would react
laughed and experienced sorrow, and He started His
with jubilation, and, in turn, there would be a celebration. This was not the reality of her current situation.
life in His mother’s womb. Jesus at conception was no less of a human than He was nine months later at His birth. Two months after conception, Jesus was no less of a human than He was when He spoke with the Woman at the Well. Jesus, kicking in His mother’s womb, was no less of a human
Her intended
than He was thirty-three years later when He died for
still planned to
our sins on a cross.
marry her, but it had taken him a
Life is precious—no matter its size. Life is worthy to be saved—no matter its ability.
little while to come around. He stood by
22 // December 2016
Delaney Walker is the development director at New Hope Pregnancy Care Center. She is an avid fan of reading, exercising, and making silly faces at babies in the grocery store.
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Gò0dNews for Health & Fitness Habits of Healthy Couples
“Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up!” —Ecclesiastes 4:9-11 ESV by Hannah Davis
D
r. Julie Sharp, head of health information at Cancer
to achieve them. Revisit each other’s goals often to track
Research UK stated, “Making lifestyle changes can
your progress.
make a huge difference to our health and cancer
Tip #3: Plan Healthy Meals/Activities Together
risk, and [studies show] that when couples make those changes together, they are more likely to be successful.” If you want to get healthier, setting up an accountability sys-
Make a weekly meal plan together. Encourage each
other to stick to it by preparing those healthy meals and
together. Visit a local farmer’s market together where Gò0dNews for Health &snacks Fitness
tem with your partner may be the “difference-maker.” Here are a few tips from healthy couples on how to keep each other accountable.
you can stock up on produce. Plan fun outdoor activities like hiking, biking, or even just window shopping in your favor-
neighborhood. Plan the time to take morning or nightly Tips for Achieving ite Your Fitness Goals walks together.
Tip #1: Set an Example
by Hannah Davis If you’re trying to motivate your partner to get fit, the
single most important thing you can do to get started is to
Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the
lead by example. Create ownyou, healthy new like Holyyour Spirit within whom you havehabits from God? You are your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify going to the gym andnot cutting out junk food. Talk to your God in your body. —1 Corinthians 6: 1920 (ESV)
partner about the healthier habits you’re incorporating, and
I
t’s March, if you New Year’s health/ share why they’re important toand you. If made you’re consistent
fitness resolutions, now is when you might be getting
with your healthy new frustrated routine,and your partner will likely be contemplate giving up. You may think
it’s been too hard or that you have already failed. There inspired to do the same. is good reason why you should not give up. You are worth it to your Maker and those around you. The following tips will help you get overnext the hump The stepof selfdoubt and achieve lasting results this year.
Tip #2: Set Goals in becoming more
1. Be specific. If your goal is weight loss, I together is to set encourage you to attach fit a reasonable timeline. For
example, if your end goalindividual is to lose 50 goals pounds by August, your weekly and share those goal could be to lose one to two goals with pounds each week. These smaller increments are realistic and will encourage you to stay on track. 2. Have a plan.
your partner. Do you want to lose
Schedule your workouts weight? Lose and meal plan just like you do other appointments. It helps to inches? Exergo to the gym or workout at cise homedaily? Cut
with a written plan. If you’re a member of a out junkbest food, gym, ask the desk staff if one of their trainers can show you how to use theand/or equipment properly. sugar? You 3. Prioritize. I hear the excuse that “I just don’t can motivate and have the time or money to get healthier and more fit.”
inspire each other You can’t afford not to! Out-of-pocket healthcare costs continue to rise. You can either spend less money on a gym membership, a personal trainer, and healthier foods now, or you can spend even more money down
24 // December 24 2016 // March 2016
Tip #4: Motivate/Support One Another
the road to treat major heart disease Once upon a health time,issues youlike and your partner might have and diabetes. Your health should be a priority because enabled each other’s bad habits. Now, it’s important to motiyour family needs you.
vate4.and support each other’s goals. Some days may require Be accountable. The importance of having
asomeone gentletonudge make aCreate healthier eating choice, while other report toto is priceless. a reward system together. For example, if you lose 8 pounds by days you may need to employ tough love tactics to keep the end of the month, you get a spa treatment, or you
your partner and inspired. Only the two of you treat yourself to amotivated sporting event. Using a tracking app or fitness devicewill like MyFitnessPal or FitBit can be an know what work for one another. excellent motivator.
Tip5.#5: Communicate Focus on today. Finally, be encouraged by
achieving goals. Take the stairs instead Justsmall like daily communication is key to of the
success of your
the elevator. Park away from a store’s entrance. Eat a relationship, it is equally important to the success of your healthy dinner. Go for a walk. Over time, these small
health and By sharing your triumphs and feats add upfitness and havegoals. a huge impact! Remember, it’s a marathon, notto a find healthy solutions. frustrations, you can work together sprint. Trust the process! Improving
Keep in mind that when to becoming and staying your health it is acomes daily journey. onto physiological healthy, there are Focus going be obstacles. It’s important to improvements that can happen
help each other tackle those hurdles so you can ultimately with just one workout and a weektogether. of healthier eating. celebrate your victories
Reduced stress, better sleep, and more energy will be quickly you greatly improve your chances of making these changes achieved.
By incorporating healthier habits with your partner,
Good habits on a consistent lifelong. Living a more healthy lifestyle will create a stronger basis will help you achieve a healthier
bond between youFor and your partner, mind and body. more fitness tips, findand me onultimately allow Twitter, Facebook, and other Instagram@bodybyhannah. you to serve each and others better! Create this account-
ability system with your partner and you are set for success!
Hannah Davis ownsowns Body ByBody HannahBy personal Hannah Davis Hannah personal training studio training studio in downtown Cleveland, TN. Hannah in Cleveland, TN.board Hannah on the advisory board as the served on the advisory as the served fitness expert fitness expert Magazine for Cosmopolitan Magazine and has contributed to for Cosmopolitan and has contributed to publications and and booksbooks includingincluding Women’s Health publications Women’s Health Magazine, SELF, Magazine, SELF, Yahoo Health, Fitness Magazine, and Yahoo Health, Fitness Magazine, and She the Rodale published book, the Rodale published book, Shape Up Shortcuts. is the author of the Operation Bikini Bodyauthor series youof the Operation Bikini Shape Up Shortcuts. She is the can find via her website: BodyByHannah.com. Body series, you can find via her website: BodyByHannah.com.
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Gò0dNews for Teens Teens and Their Family Lives
In a society where the family model is so distorted and under attack, followers of Christ must continue to strengthen the family dynamic in our homes, which begins with reaching out to the teens and showing them the importance of family.
P
by Fernando Alejandro
arents, do you remember when your child would come home from elementary school and tell you
every detail of their day at school? Sometimes it would take thirty minutes or longer and you would just nod or say, “Oh really?” or “Wow, that’s great honey?” But, your child is grown into a teenager and he or she is glued to a cell phone. The only answer you can get from your teen is, “It was okay” or “Yeah.” All you want is to communicate, but teens are consumed with their friends at school and social media. Teens, do you remember that you spent every waking moment with your parent(s) and you never wanted to leave their side? You would wake up early in the morning and crawl into bed with your mom and dad to spend some time with them? However, now, your parents are always on your case about school, chores, being active in the youth group, or the other activities that they want you to do while all that you want is to hang out with your friends and to spend time away with them. Are you to a point that you really don’t know what’s going on in your family or that your family doesn’t know what is going on in your life? What happened from the time you/your teenager left elementary school and entered into middle/high school? Once teens begin to find their friend groups who become their primary source of social time (teens spend more time at school and extracurricular activities than they do with their parents), spending time with their parents and
26 // December 2016
family is boring or that they cannot be themselves like they can around their friends. Around other teens, they are able to find individuals that have the same taste in music, clothing, and hobbies unlike their family that they view as too old and out of touch with society, or if they have siblings that are younger, they’re annoying. Older siblings, are not around because their friend groups consume them. Is it too late for family members to reach into the lives of their teens? No, let me suggest some simple actions parents can take to reconnect with their teens or vice-versa. • Set aside a designated time to spend time together and do something that both parties will enjoy. Living in a society where busyness consumes our lives, picking a time to spend together will change the family dynamic. • Build trust with one another that leads to opening up to each other. Students need to hear that their parents struggle and have or are overcoming obstacles in their own lives. • Reveal unconditional love that Christ showed humanity on the cross. Writing a simple “I love you” note or saying it will change the hearts of the family. “Train up a child in the way he should go, Even when he is old he will not depart from it.” (Pro. 22:6 NASB)
Fernando Alejandro attended Lee University in Cleveland, TN, graduated with his bachelor’s degree in youth ministry, and holds his ordained ministerial licensure with the Church of God. He is currently pursuing a master’s degree in ministry studies concentrating in youth and family ministry. When Fernando was saved in a youth ministry, he stepped into God’s plan for his life, to love, journey with, and disciple the next generation.
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COVER STORY
Nissan of Cleveland
By Emily Bangura Easy. Enjoyable. Empowering. Open. Simple ideas with very big implications.
A
lfonso Rivezzo is all about the hard work,
to a job he found on the Monster jobsite. After he
loyalty, honesty, and simplicity when it
got the job, he went back to Pennsylvania because he
comes to life, family, and work. Alfonso
was homesick. It was there that he met his fiancé and
is the General Manager of Nissan of Cleveland and
they had their first child. After Alfonso Jr. came into
came into the position in a roundabout sort of way.
their world, they went to Tampa, Florida and Alfonso
Just as many people go to school for something
became involved with Sonic Automotive in 2008. It
completely different than their vocation, so did
was at Clearwater Toyota that Alfonso learned the
Alfonso Rivezzo; and like many people who do this,
most about cars and running the business. After a
he has loved every minute of it.
few years, he transferred to Cleveland, TN to take
Alfonso was born in Queens, New York and lived there until he was twelve years old when his
over Nissan of Cleveland with Sonic. Alfonso Rivezzo comes from a family of hard
family moved to the Poconos in Pennsylvania. For
workers. His father is a former combat veteran,
ten years, every day, his parents would drive from
a Marine in Vietnam, and was a strict man who
Mt. Pocono to lower level Manhattan for two and
demanded respect and hard work from himself
a half hours each way in order to get Alfonso and
and others. Alfonso’s mother came from Lima, Peru
his brother to a better school than they had in their
and went from cleaning apartments in Manhattan
area. He later went to college and got his bachelor’s
to putting herself through college in St. John’s
degree in criminology. It wasn’t until 2006 that he got
in Queens, New York, with a little help from her
into the car industry. He started at Courtesy Ford in
husband. After school, she became a math teacher
Sanford, Florida after he tagged along with a friend
and has been in that profession for twenty years. His
28 // December 2016
doesn’t end with the customer interaction. They are also strongly involved in the community and participate in Habitat for Humanity, the Cleveland, TN Christmas Parade, and the Cleveland – Bradley Chamber of Commerce. Sonic Automotive owns Nissan of Cleveland and they are a great company who changes the way customers buy vehicles. They are a Fortune 500 company and they provide comprehensive services, including sales of both new and used cars, light trucks, sales of replacement parts, performance of vehicle maintenance, warranty, paint, collision repair brother is also a Veteran; he fought in Afghanistan.
services, and arrangement of extended warranty
Alfonso watched his family work hard for all of their dreams and goals and saw how he could implement these traits into his business with Nissan of Cleveland. Alfonso’s hard work has paid off over the years he has been with Nissan of Cleveland. One of the biggest differences between their dealership and their local competition is their customer service. While their competitors add addendums, or extra fees or options, and start with prices above the MSRP,
contracts, financing and insurance of the company’s customers. Nissan of Cleveland is one of over one hundred dealerships owned by Sonic across thirteen states and twenty-five major metropolitan markets. Nissan is one of approximately twenty-five different automotive brands, with the majority of them being luxury and import brands. They are an industryleading automotive retailer committed to providing their customers with an outstanding automotive experience that is delivered with professionalism, integrity, and enthusiasm.
or sticker price, Nissan of Cleveland discounts their pricing and bases it on the selling price of an identical vehicle in their market area. They do not consider themselves to be in the car-selling business; they recognize all the pain-points of buying a car that have existed for years, and they create not only happy guests, but happy owners. Their goal is to make the experience easy, enjoyable, empowering, and open for the customer. However, their service
issuu.com/goodnewscm // 29
Gò0dNews for Everyone The World Is Made Holy through Thanks Gratitude to God becomes the continuous sanctification of the world.
A
by Julius McCarter
s we approach Thanksgiving, I’m reminded,
if it is received with thankfulness, for it is made holy by
especially today, as I prepare for yet another
the Word of God and prayer.
of those pastoral duties that bring a pastor’s
Think about that. Think of everything you possess,
heart to break—a funeral. That’s when life is treated as a
everything that is yours in life. How can we live with
possession that can be taken from us, damaged or lost.
these things in a way that doesn’t entangle us, in a way
Our lives become infused with fear, causing us to cling,
that isn’t sinful?
protect, hoard, defend, and aggress. The antidote to this
Receive them as gifts. When we handle the things
fear is gratitude, viewing life—the whole of life—not as a
of the world as gifts, they become holy, consecrated,
possession to be defended but as a gift to be shared.
and sanctified. Gratitude and thankfulness mark
Treating the whole of life as gift has become an
the boundary between the sacred and the profane.
important spiritual insight for me. That’s why, on days
Everything is sanctified by our thanksgiving. Receiving
like today, I always begin by praying 1 Timothy 4:4-5:
God’s gifts with thanks doesn’t merely identify them as
“For everything created by God is good, and nothing is
gifts. It sanctifies them. The world is made holy through
to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving, for it is
our thanksgiving.
made holy by the word of God and prayer” (ESV).
If Christians consecrate whatever they receive by
On the surface, it seems like a rather bland text. Be
thanks, they are not only claiming it as God’s own but
thankful. Got it. But there is an idea at the heart of this
also obligating themselves to use it in a particular way,
text that is very profound if you let the implications sink
to use it with thanks. Thanksgiving is thus the liturgy
in. And the idea is this: Gratitude sanctifies the world;
of Christian living. It is the continuous sacrifice that
gratitude makes the world holy. Nothing is to be rejected
Christians offer.
30 // December 2016
The Reverend Julius McCarter, Ph.D., is a minister and spiritual director who lives in Loudon, TN. He is the author of eleven books—most recently a theological commentary on the Book of Revelation. His ministry, Sunergoi Ministries, maintains a blog at www.the-little-friar.blogspot.com.
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Gò0dNews for Couples
Picking Your Team
A whole-hearted commitment can become a holy appointment. by John Garrod
I
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-
was an old-style family vacation, but packed into just
hitting talent you could from the pool available. No
four days. It was an opportunity to show them where
loyalty given, none expected. It’s about winning that
I grew up, the streets where we played wiffle-ball and
game and having bragging rights for a little while.
climbed trees, and the schools I attended when, a long
Thirty-two years ago, I made a selection. While that
time ago, I was their age. After 2,300 miles of driving, it
early determination was based on physical attraction
was time for me to realize just how old I am.
and a novice understanding of what love is, the decision
And then there was the wedding to meet family
was a whole-hearted commitment. This wonderful
and friends of the family, some of whom I haven’t seen
woman was to become my mate. That’s not the same
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
their new spouses, while the ex-husband
mother and be joined to his wife, and they shall become
sat across the table with theirs. Some of
one flesh”(NKJV). Jesus added to this in Mark 10: 8-9,
these couples I have known most
saying “So they are no longer two, but
of my life, and I remember their
one flesh. Therefore, what God has put
first weddings. And sadly, in
together, let not man put asunder”
the years to come, many more of the families there will
(NKJV). It’s a lifetime of “us” versus
split, thanks to the epidemic
“them,” even when “them” is
divorce rate in America.
family or friends who try to
So why do some couples
divide us, emotions that want
last, while others do not?
to overwhelm you, and odds
Divorce has hit half of my
that want to defy us. It’s saying
siblings and many of my friends.
“no” to temptation, turning a
There’s no simple, all-inclusive
deaf ear to the devil’s whispers,
answer, of course, but I think a lot
defending and praying for each
of it has to do with commitment to
other even when we’re upset with
the team. Instead, we go into it with a
each other. It’s joining hands and
wiffle-ball attitude. Wiffle-ball is a pick-up game of
setting course for the horizon regardless the obstacles.
baseball played with plastic balls and bats. Teams were determined by who happened to be outside when we started. So while brother may be teamed with brother today, they
32 // December 2016
John Garrod is a father of six, husband of one, Army veteran, and a resident of Tennessee. He is a member at South Cleveland Church of God.
Gò0dNews for Seniors Gò0dNews for Seniors
Seventy Years Strong Staying involved with their church, their work in the community, and their family has kept this couple’s love strong!
I
by Esmerelda Lee
enjoy an inspiring old love stories. Favorites like adhere to a strong work ethic. Mitchell attributes his An Affair to Remember, Love is a Many Splendid sons’ successes to their mother. He did say that he Thing, and others move me more than some and Betty believed in giving their children “some of the modern-day love stories on the Hallmark good lickings,” that helped too. Channel. There is something to be said about the In a world where so many people focus on their purity and innocence of the courtship and love own happiness and make life-altering decisions depicted through old movies. I am also honored to based on these motives, I asked Betty and Mitchell see these love stories played out in real life through if they were happy throughout the sixty-nine years older adults. Couples that fell in love and stayed of marriage. “We always worked it out, and if we in love through a world war, the Depression, life didn’t laugh at each other, we found someone or challenges, raising and burying loved ones are something to laugh about. You’ll have problems in couples that loved for life. marriage, but who doesn’t? You just have to talk it by Esmerelda Betty and Mitchell Lyle are a local Cleveland Leeout,” Mitch replied. couple that met in the first grade at When I asked if they ever fought, ecently, someone asked me my opinion about a Many older adults enjoy being a greeter at Walmart; Arnold Memorial School. For Mitchell it they looked puzzled. “Who doesn’t local business leader well past the typical however, they are discovering that there many jobs was love at first who sight.isBetty believes that fight? We areare both so different, and retirement age but continues to work every day. they can continue doing, jobs that will serve others while the grinning first-grader grew on her we like different things. When we “When doover you think person will was they the teaching them as well. Ourfought, countrythe faces a crisis time.this According toretire?” Mitchell, one withwith the strongest were “sweet” on each other but did not case won.” Mitchell also added, question. I replied, “I really don’t know, who says, he has the lack of caregivers, especially nurses. Dorothy Philips, until “We compromised, but Betty made to retire?”get Thisserious question leadafter me toWorld wonderWar whyII.some a tenured nurse in our community, continues to serve Mitchell enlisted in the Navy in 1943 the most compromises. I am still people believe that older adults must stop working. Is people at Life Care Center of Cleveland. Dot, as she is and stayed out to sea for most of that surprised that she chose me.”In receiving a Medicare card some sort of flashing yellow known to many, is always on time. She never calls in, and time. He remembers a year and half Betty’s much softer voice, she said, caution sign that the “end” is on the horizon? Or maybe she is meticulous with her education young nurses, her about, going by before his feet even touched “If there istosomething to fight it is the card to But markeach the rite of passage documentation and technique. like Dot Philips drygiven land. week when into maila thereNurses is something worth saving.” was delivered to hisWhat aircraft On August 22, 2016, Betty and season of resting and relaxation? if wecarrier, really don’t should never be pressured to retire if they desire to serve Betty’s unrelenting letters and her faith Mitchell Lyle will celebrate their enjoy resting? What if people truly enjoy what they do, and can still make a difference. that he would home kept have theirthat love strong.Currently, seventieth anniversary. Today, these or just enjoy being needed?return Will these people over 25wedding % of the drivers that serve When Mitchell and Betty were finally reunited lifelong Cleveland residents live at Garden Plaza at opportunity well into their senior years? millennials through Uber driving services are over the after the war, they dated for eight short months Cleveland Senior Living. Their apartment has little A recent article in U.S. News piqued my curiosity. A age of fifty. Many seniors can from still beserving attentive before they were married. After graduating college, awards they won incounselors, their vocations new studyBetty published by the JP Morgan Chase Institute intuitive consultants, wise leaders, and engaging teachers. became a school teacher with Cleveland City and in their community, war-torn photographs showed that a growing ofwent seniors turning to railroad. Isaiahof 46:4 says, members, “Even in your age, Ieach will be the Schools, andnumber Mitchell toare work for the family andold beside recliner is a Later he became one of the members of our City tattered and worn Bible. the “gig economy” and outfits like Uber, and other online same, And even to your graying years I will bear you! I They stillcarry laugh at And eachI other andyou with each platforms Council. to earn supplemental income. According to the have done it, and I will you. will bear When asked what was the secret to loving other. There are also days where the laughter and research, they found that more than 400,000 seniors bring and I will deliver you.” This scripture is a reminder that each other through sixty-nine years of marriage, the talking are silent. On those days, Fox News in some income from the gig economy (gig meaning our Heavenly Father never discounts people in their old they both stated, “Stay busy so you don’t get into anchors are the only voices heard in the apartment. “gigabyte”). "An increasing number of seniors age. He is Mitchell able to bear them, carry them and trouble!” Betty and Mitchell were are married at First said it best, “What she deliver forgets,them. I can supplementing their income through the online platform As I read this scripture, I am reminded that He has the Baptist Church in 1946, and were always involved in remember. When she laughs, I am happy, and even church, work, and family. They had though there were daysto she didn’t me, she economy,"their the report says. "Many online platforms are two sons. ability to give His children strength thrive. At like any age, Both Tony and David were strong boys, raised by always loved me.” especially well-suited for seniors in that they permit a job well done is gratifying. a strong, no-nonsense working mother. Betty was flexible work and allow people to generate income from Esmerelda loving, but she always made it clear that her sons EsmereldaLee Leeisiscampus campusmanager manager for Garden accumulated assets." for Garden Plaza of an Plaza of Cleveland,Cleveland, an independent and assisted would love education like she did, and they would
Looks like Miss Daisy’s turn to take the wheel
R
34 // December 20162016 34 // March
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
A Promise Kept! Do You Keep Yours?
by Dr. William Lamb
“I
will meet you at 2:30.”—I am so sorry that I am
574 of those verses referring directly to a personal
late. “I will take care of that for you.”—I can’t
Messiah. Those among the company of Christ followers
believe I forgot to do that. “Let me call them for
understand the reference of a personal Messiah being
you and see.”—Ouch, time got away with me, I am sorry.
Christ Jesus. These prophetic verses of a coming messiah
“I will remember to pray for you.”—I feel so bad that I
were only as good as the fulfillment of the promise.
forgot to pray for them. I hope they are okay.
Interesting though, is the reality that these promises
In the previous paragraph are statements that I have made to others over time (see statements in quotes), followed by the excuses I offered when I failed to keep
were not futile—instead the Creator of all, Jehovah God, masterfully orchestrated them. It is my assumption that most people reading
my word. I have been on the other side of the desk many
the articles in GoodNews know about the concepts of
times when others failed to follow through on their word.
God. They have a biblical frame of reference and are
I hope they were not as judgmental of me as I was of
usually closely associated to a house of faith or church
others’ lack of commitment.
community. However, it is also my assumption that
Is your word good? Can people depend on you? Do
many of those people I just described are easily caught
you deliver on your promises? Are you faithful to what
in mechanics of a systemized historical expression in this
you say you will do? If you make a commitment, do you
season of Christmas. Sometimes it seems that people take
follow through?
the expressions of a Messiah as trite as they do their verbal
Let’s admit it; we are human. In fact, for many,
commitments often followed by excuses. However, there
our humanity seems to cause us to stumble at times.
was no excuse for the coming of the Messiah because
This stumbling can be so severe that our word has lost
God’s Word is good and He followed through.
credibility, others no longer depend on us, promises
What if we went deeper in our faith journey to the
made are empty, and faithfulness seems to be a history
place where we refuse to minimize the truth of a promise
reference because of the lack of following through. I hope
kept. What if it meant more to us than just annual
you are catching the subtleness here.
celebrations of Christmas plays or being trapped in the
Bible scholars suggest that the Old Testament reveals
commercialized exchanges of lights, tinsel, and gifts?
more than 3,000 verses
It seems to me there is more. It seems to me that: a
revealing messianic
word promised should be a word kept; a promise kept
predictions, with
should be a foundation laid. Isn’t that what God did when He promised the Messiah, and what Jesus did when he came to earth in human form? During this month of December and year round, please take time to reflect on the real meaning of Christmas—“a promise kept.” As my dad would say, “See you on the other side of glory.” I will keep that promise!
36 // December 2016
Dr. William Lamb is a member of the administrative staff at Lee University (Cleveland, Tennessee) where he leads a diverse and global “service-learning” program for college students. He is a veteran of the United States Marine Corps. William and his wife Angela, along with their children Tyler and Megan, Nick, and Ben, reside in Cleveland, TN.
Gò0dNews Christmas Activity What Is Advent?
Advent is a great time to share the true meaning of Christmas with your children.
A
by Danielle Jennings dvent is when we prepare our hearts to receive
each week on an advent wreath. On Christmas, the center
God’s gift of Jesus. It is the time of year that we
candle, called the Christ Candle, is lit to represent Christ’s
turn our focus to the true meaning of Christmas.
birth and to conclude the waiting period of Advent with
Each week we celebrate what God allows us to receive by sending Jesus—hope, love, joy, and peace. We remind
the gift of Jesus. Below is an activity to engage the family during this
ourselves each year of these gifts by lighting a candle
advent season.
Interactive Advent Activity for the Family
11/30: Luke 1:68-79—A time of memories
What you’ll need:
12/2: Matthew 25:31-40—A time for charity
12/1: Luke 1:39-55—A time for greetings
• Paper
12/3: Romans 15:1-7—A time for visiting
• Scissors
12/4: John 14:1-6—A time of hope
• String
12/5: Isaiah 55:6-11—A time of faith
• Clothespins
12/6: Galatians 3:23-4:7—A time of promise
• Crayons or markers
12/7: John 11-14—A time for candles
• Camera (if you choose to take pictures)
12/8: Psalm 150—A time for music
Instructions • Before this activity, you can hang a piece or string on a wall in your house. • Cut each piece of paper in half, and then in half again to make four equal pieces. • Help your child date each piece of paper and hang up the blank pieces onto the string with clothespins. • Each day after you read, decide as a family how you will portray the verse. • Choose to write, draw, or take a picture and then hang the picture on the string. • At the end of the month you will have your own family advent calendar you built throughout the season.
12/9: John 15:1-11—Time for being in touch 12/10: Luke 10:38-42—A time of rushing 12/11: Colossians 3:12-17—A time of singing 12/12: Luke 1:5-80—A time for family 12/13: Psalm 118:19-29—A time for decorations 12/14: John 6:32-40—A time for baking 12/15: Thessalonians 3:11-13—A time for love 12/16: 2 Corinthians 1:3-7—A time of solitude 12/17: Isaiah 25:6-9—A time for remembering 12/18: Matthew 11:25-30—A time of peace 12/19: Hebrews 4:9-16—A time for holiday 12/20: 2 Corinthians 9:6-15—Time to give thanks 12/21: Ephesians 3:14-21—A time of blessing 12/22: Ephesians 2:4-10—A time for gifts
This year, Advent begins on November 27. 11/27: Jeremiah 33:14-16—A time of waiting 11/28: Psalms 25:4-5—A time of truth 11/29: John 3:1-21—A time of sharing
38 // December 2016
12/23: Luke 2:1-7—A time for joy 12/24: Luke 2:8-20—God with us Danielle Jennings is the director of children’s ministry at Ooltewah United Methodist. She is a graduate of Lee University and is currently working on her master’s degree. Her passion is working with children and helping them succeed.
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Gò0dNews Christian Magazine
Gò0dNews for Everyone
Everyone Needs a Crisis “The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.” —Exodus 14:14 NIV
E
by Mead Vest
veryone says that life can change in the blink of an
repair my vehicles, show up at the right time, counsel and
eye. We all know that phrase is true, and yet we
support my children, fix things around my house, and in
still rationalize subconsciously that it is only true
essence behave as the Body of Christ should in times of
for others. However, when reality hits and you are the
need. The Body of Christ, when working properly, is a
statistic, the small percentage of people that “it” happens
genuine gift of mercy that is so incredibly overwhelming
to suddenly is changed. In those moments of crisis,
in times of calamity. What do people, who don’t have the
you have the opportunity to take inventory of several
body of Christ surrounding them and lifting them up, do
different areas of your life that, up to that point you may
in times of crises?
have neglected or perhaps just overlooked. In these times
My family members have also put forth their true
of crisis you can truly see the character of others, the
character. Rather than the breakdown of family ties
character of your family, and the character of God.
due to raw emotions, hurt feelings, and disagreement,
My recent crisis starting on a day in June when my
there have been long talks of the hard things in life
husband entered the hospital for what seemed to be a
with a smattering of comic relief thrown in for good
fairly simple problem, but within the week his heart
measure. They have pulled together to be stronger as a
stopped pumping and his lungs stopped breathing.
whole than in parts and have been gracious and kind
As the people around me and my friends across the
while fiercely loving one another through it all. So, what
country began to mobilize into action to provide for
do people do in times of crisis that don’t have Christ-
my family’s various needs, little did I know that it was
followers in their family?
just the beginning. As I write this tonight, we are
In addition, God’s character has shown
on “day seventy eight” of institutional life.
through. His consistent provision is
He was revived in June when his heart stopped, but a short six-weeks later, it would stop again. Two and one-half
undeniably evident. His grace is sufficient moment by moment. His plan for me is hard, but He doesn’t claim it will be
months into the crises and no end is in
easy; He just claims He will walk
sight, yet I cannot help but recognize
through it with me. He was there on
the character of those involved.
day one and He is still here on day
My friends, both near and far,
seventy-eight. He is still sovereign.
have displayed their true character
He is still God, and I am still not. It
by supporting me. They have risen
is in the crises that our true character
to the occasion to help me in
comes through.
countless ways. It is their true character that is displayed as they bring me meals, help me with my children,
40 // December 2016
Mead Vest is married with seven children. She is passionate about classical education and serves on the school board of Candies Creek Academy associated with Candies Creek Baptist Church. She has homeschooled for over twenty years and is in leadership with a nonprofit that promotes competitive speech and debate for high school students. She is an avid organizer and an essential oils enthusiast.
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Gò0dNews for your Taste Buds Christmas and Chocolate They go hand in hand!
T
by Angie Parris
here is something about an upcoming holiday
from heat. Slowly whisk in 1/4 cup heavy whipping
that calls for us to drag out the recipe books—
cream until smooth. Cool mixture for about 15 minutes.
maybe something Granny used to make, or
Pour the caramel over the Oreo crust, then return to the
one we've clipped from a magazine, seen online, or
freezer for about 30 minutes until just chilled and set
remember from the old church cookbook of years
(do not let the caramel fully freeze).
gone by. Nonetheless, the sweeter the better. Every
Place chocolate chips in a glass bowl. In a saucepan,
now and again, one recipe comes along that just hangs
bring 1 cup heavy whipping cream to a simmer over
around. This is that recipe; pretty simple to make, few
medium heat. Pour the cream over the chocolate chips
ingredients but very luxurious. It’s fancy enough for
and let sit for 5 minutes, then whisk until completely
company or simple enough for supper. Somehow this
smooth. Pour the chocolate over the caramel and freeze
one calls for friends, coffee, and a fireplace crackling
for a final 30 minutes or until set and chilled. Before
in the background. Tiny slices completely satisfy the
serving, sprinkle the top with a flaky sea or Kosher salt.
taste buds and make this pie that special "company's-
Enjoy!
coming" dessert for this upcoming season! I love it with Sea Salt, but it would be divine without; you choose!
This really would serve approx 12 people. It is very rich and just a small slice will satisfy!
Dark Chocolate Salted Caramel Oreo Pie Ingredients:
1 package Oreo cookies (about 36) 1 cup (16 tablespoons) butter, melted and divided in half 2/3 cup packed brown sugar 1 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream 1 (12ounce) bag dark chocolate chips (not morsels). Finely crush the Oreo's with a food processor or blender. Stir crumbs together with 8 tablespoons of melted butter (1 stick) until well combined. Press into the bottom and sides of a pie pan or dish. Freeze crust for 10 minutes until set. Combine remaining 8 tablespoons butter and brown sugar in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly until mixture begins to bubble. Continue cooking, whisking constantly for one minute. Remove
42 // December 2016
Angie Parris is the cafeteria manager for Walker Valley High School here in Bradley County after serving as food service director for 22 years at Broad Street Methodist Church. Angie and Jackie are parents of 4, grandparents of 10—adjusting nicely to their new empty nest!
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Gò0dNews from the Physician’s Desk
Learning from Football
Recently nearly 160,000 people came together to watch a football game in Bristol, Tennessee. This was a “big deal” as it was the largest attended football game in history, “The Battle of Bristol.” Was there something long lasting to be learned from the game? by Dr. James Marcum
I
n the weeks leading up to the game, the hype and talk were
fundamentals of health? What are some of the basics for good
incredible. The Volunteers from the University of Tennessee
health that are sometimes overlooked?
and the Hokies from Virginia Tech University were analyzed
1. Water. We are comprised mainly of water. Water is
in great detail. All the time and money spent in talking about,
important for the chemical reactions of the body. Without water,
and preparing for, the game, was astounding. Regardless of
we malfunction. Water, not soda, is a fundamental for health.
whether this was a wise use of time and resources is another
We need enough water for health.
topic for another time, but what can we learn from this football
2. Movement. Our bodies depend on movement. Without
game? What can we store in our brains from this event to trigger
movement, our circulation, oxygen supply, metabolism,
a helpful, neural pathway in the future?
mobility, and structure are altered. We were designed to
Many of the commentators were speculating on the play calling, motivation, coaching, and talent being the keys to success. As I listened to the back and forth, who had the biggest
move and not sit at a computer desk or in front of a television. Movement on a regular basis is another fundamental for health. 3. Breathing. We were designed to breathe well. Without
and strongest players? Who had the smartest coaches? Who had
oxygen, the body just does not work as well. How many of
the best plays? This sounded like astute analysis for upcoming
us really know how to breathe well, taking in long, slow
success in the game.
relaxing breaths of oxygen and also breathing out effectively
However, one elderly analyst concluded that the team that
to remove wastes. We are often stressed and in positions
demonstrated the football fundamentals best, would have the
where this type of breathing is not accomplished. This
greatest success during the game. These football fundamentals
sounds obvious but is important.
included blocking, tackling the ball carrier, catching the ball,
4. Worship. What does worship have to do with health,
and running with the ball. This sounded so obvious. Why
you might ask? Well, I believe this is another one of the
weren’t others talking about this? Well, I admit this simple
fundamentals. This, I contend, is the foundation of health. We
truth was not flashy. The other analysts probably thought they
were designed to worship. In worship we can communicate
were being paid to make a much more detailed and cerebral
with the Master Designer. We can receive power to learn about
comment. The elderly analyst was correct. The team that
the health fundamentals and make needed changes one step at
demonstrated the football fundamentals had the most success
a time. Scientific studies and even genetic analyses show how
during the game.
worship and the relaxation response changes our physiology.
What can we learn from this? The fundamentals are
Fundamentals are often overlooked. Sure, there is more
important for success. Yet, sometimes the fundamentals,
involved to health, but this football game made me think
sounding so simple, are overlooked. We often assume
about fundamentals. The next football game I watch, I want
fundamentals are taking place. This is not always the case.
the neural pathways linking me back to the fundamentals of
Fundamentals are important in all aspects of life, relationships,
health to be activated.
learning, stewardship, and even our health. I discovered four fundamentals of football, blocking, tackling, catching, and running. What are four of the
44 // December 2016
Dr. James Marcum is speaker/director of Heartwise Ministries. He is a cardiologist practicing with the Chattanooga Heart Institute. He is very active in the television, radio, and print arm of Heartwise Ministries. He is married to Sonya and has two children, Kelli and Jake. He enjoys music and outdoor activities.
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
Maybe Kid’s Church Is the Main Service
L
Thoughts about Intergenerational Worship Environments Part 2 of 2 by Chris Knipp
ast month I began reframing an article from.
and the hearts of the children to their parents; or else I will come
ChurchLeaders.com about intergenerational worship. I
and strike the land with total destruction" (Mal. 4:6 NIV).
recommend reading part one before proceeding here, if
"And he will go on before the Lord, in the spirit and power
possible. However, if last month’s Goodnews is not available
of Elijah, to turn the hearts of the parents to their children and
to you, you can find it all in its entirety on my Facebook
the disobedient to the wisdom of the righteous—to make ready
page post on October 5, 2016 (https://www.facebook.com/
a people prepared for the Lord" (Luke 1:17 NIV).
chrisandpaula). I mentioned the importance of intergeneration worship.
They are both similar, separated by hundreds of years of no recorded prophetic revelation from God. That
Nevertheless, an intergenerational worship experience should
last recorded revelation of the Old Testament was about
not always be about kids entering the "strange world" of the
intergenerational ministry. In Luke's first chapter, the only
adult service. Could it not also be parents attending the "main
Gospel in chronological order; we see again this passion for
service" with their kids? Just like when speaking to a child,
intergenerational ministry, this call for the turning of hearts
it's important to get down on their level and speak to them
from one generation to the next.
eye to eye; it's important to get down on their level in the
The call is for the parents to turn their hearts first. I
kids-oriented worship environment as well. We have parents
suggest this happens best by parents visiting the child's world
do this from time to time. We've had many of them tell us
first before it is expected of children visiting the parent's
that they enjoyed the experience and that God's Word was
world. Of course this should happen in many environments,
preached to them in the kid’s service in a way that brought an
but especially at church.
understanding and clarity to them that they never had before. Sure, there are logistic and safety issues to consider
Remember that we as children of God can only go to God because He first came to us. He could have come to us as an
by letting adults into the kid’s service. So you should take
adult, but ironically; He came to us as a baby. We should take
precaution and plan accordingly. Yet, I believe doing the
up His example as we approach our children. We should first
necessary work to make these times happen are worth the
come to them as they are, yet not leave them as they are by
extra effort it takes. There is only so much time in the narrow
modeling the example of how they should be where they are.
window of this formational time in a child's life. We've got to
Then, when they come to where we are (adult church) they'll
make the most of it.
see it's not that different, and they’ll grow up understanding
When thinking through an intergenerational approach for
their identity as fellow disciples in the body of Christ.
your worship environments and discipleship efforts, spend some time meditating on these two very important passages of Scripture: "He will turn the hearts of the parents to their children,
46 // December 2016
Chris Knipp is the High 5 pastor at Westmore Church of God in Cleveland.
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e believe when people are equipped, motivated, and passionately engaged in living out their faith in Jesus Christ they have the potential to be world changers. Our mission is to bring people into a dynamic relationship with Jesus Christ—a relationship that empowers them to see how God can work through individual personalities, situations, and talents. Christ was an activist, he did not neglect the needs of the people as He brought His message. We strive to encourage everyone to look more like Christ by reaching outside of themselves to serve the needs of others—at home, at school, in communities, and across the world.
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48 // December 2016
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Gò0dNews for Grandparents
Gò0dNews for Everyone
Things I’ve Learned From My Granddaughter
Just Believe
Give thanks to the LORD, for He is good! His faithful love endures forever. —Pslams 118:1
Hearing this, Jesus said to Jairus, “Don’t be afraid; just believe, and she will be healed.” by Darleen Lofty —Luke 8:50 NIV
D
O
n April 1, 2010, my husband and I were blessed
doesn’t fuss about which shoes she has on or if her bow
with our first granddaughter. Kinley was a little
isn’t perfect. She’s content with whatever she has in most
by Darlene Lofty
one,season, weighing in at less than five pounds,pool, but sheCPR situations. She hasparamedics learned Paul’sarrived lesson atquickly, an early age: Christmas the word believe was started, and
uring the was absolutely perfect! When Kinley was 19 months old, “Not that I was ever in need, for I have learned how to be can be seen everywhere. It’s printed on T-shirts, everybody was praying. she had an accident that almost took her life (another story content with whatever I have” (see Phil. 4:10). ornaments, linens, and signs as a reminder of It was estimated that she was in the water 3-4 minfor another day). She suffered an anoxic brain injury. After the magic of the season. I’m sure the word conjures up utes, but BE shePERSISTENT was without oxygen for about 10 minutes. almost two months in Egleston and Scottish Rite hospitals, different images for people. is my Doctors were us little hopeinofher survival even Kinleygiving has overcome so much five shortand years. Only shedifferent was released. What Believe a wonderful dayword that was! Kinley how many times as she wasThe learning home, but she was not the same little girl that and not just duringwas thecoming month of December. less hopeGod for knows her quality of life if she shefell survived. firstto she would get right up and take off leftstarted back in November. She could longer crawl, November 26, had 2011, out like any othernoSatur48 hours walk, werebut critical. Family andback friends came to again. the She sounds out her words carefully walk, talk, or feed herself. Doctors day between Thanksgiving and Christmas. I had plans hospital. Everyone was praying. A “Pray for Kinley” until she gets it right. She wants to were uncertain of her the future. to shop, clean, and decorate. I was in the middle of mov- Facebook page was created and we began receiving succeed in whatever she is doing. A brain injury heals differently ing furniture around toaaccommodate the Christmas tree hundreds of messages from people allquit! over the world Kinley doesn’t than broken bone. However, when I received a call from my I asked him to who were praying for our baby.God Onehas message menanswered so many we trusted Godhusband. to bring her pr ato ye rJairus s s i n c eabout Ki nley to complete healing. repeat himself three times before hisThese words finally sunk tioned Luke 8:50. Jesus is talking hishad her accident. Watching the last four years have brought in: “Kinley fell in a swimming pool and she’s not breath- daughter and said, “Don’t be afraid; just believe, and miracles unfold as He has tremendous progress. Kinley has ing.” Kinley is our youngest grandchild at 19 months she will be healed” (NIV). I took that verse to heart and healed her body has strengthened relearned many things, but old and our only granddaughter. I think I went numb began praying and BELIEVING that God would heal my faith in ways that I can’t put into she has also taught me a few things for a moment before I was able to walk next-door to my her. We prayed specificallywords. for her lungs, heart, He has been kidneys, faithful during the in the process. darkest nights and theafter brightest mom’s house. She began to make calls to family and and whatever else concerned the of doctors. Time JOYFUL of days. our requests for healchurch friends. WeBE didn’t know any details, but she just time we prayed and God honored a smile for everyone, I began by saying that Kinley asked everyone to Kinley pleasehas pray. ing. He used our trial to restore my faith and the faith of and you can’t help but smile back when you see the pure came into this world perfect. She’s almost six years old The next few hours run together in my memory. so many others. She was our Christmas miracle. joy on her face. A smile is probably one of the easiest now. She started Pre-K this year and is doing very well, We were getting phone from members who So what do to I believe in?sheI believe in the powerShe of things calls to share, andfamily sometimes your smile may be the only but due her injury, still has some problems. were with Kinley: one they got a heartbeat, she’s being aira little baby named Jesus who was born to a Virgin that someone sees that day. Nehemiah 8:10 tells us struggles with things that other children accomplish in easily. “Don’t dejected Iand sad, for theGod joy ofwas the LORDaisstable your so She is strong-willed, But she lifted, please hurry, she’sbecritical. know that very long ago. Iopinionated, believe in and thestubborn. death, burial, strength!”( NLT). We got to the hospiis exactly the way God anddied that’s for my idea with us on that drive to Atlanta. and resurrection of that littlewants Babyher, who my of sins. perfection! tal quickly, but it seemed to take forever. We learned I believe in the power of prayer. I believe in miracles! BE CONTENT more details after we arrived. Kinley had found an Kinley doesn’t care if she has the newest toy on the market unlocked door andorslipped out of thehas house unnoticed. if her coloring book her markings on every page. She Darlene andJohn John Lofty married Darlene and Lofty havehave been been married for 16 Her grandmother had spotted her in the pool from an years. they have they 4 grown children and 6 for 16 Together years. Together have 4 grown upstairs bathroom. Her dad had pulled her from the grandchildren. are members ofThey Salem Baptist children and 6They grandchildren. are
50 // December362016 // March 2016
Church in Dalton where they work in the youth
members of Salem Baptist Church in Dalton ministry. where they work in the youth ministry.
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
Listening a Learned Trait Victorious Is Living (Part 2 of 2) Kelly McDonald Jr. through Him who loved us.” “Yet in all these things we areby more than conquerors —Romans My dear brothers and sisters, take8:37 noteNKJV of this: Everyone should be
quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry because human anger does not by produce righteousness Kellythe McDonald, Jr.that God desires. —James 1:19-20 NIV ast time, we discussed David’s new challenge with victories God had given him. Always remember, this
LT
here is Goliath. a difference between hearing and the giant It had new obstacles from his
listening. Hearing isKing just Saul. allowing words friends, family, and even Remember, to go through your ears. Listening is an David received a prophecy from Samuel that he would active process where you are considering the be king! This means David's fight against Goliath was words being spoken and taking them to heart. already won. He was more be thangeared a conqueror! Your response should toward the message that another person is conveying to What was the real battle that David faced? The real you. A conversation is defined as a message battle was not the fight with Goliath. The real battle was received. That message is processed, and an this: Would David be discouraged from In going forward appropriate response is issued. a world into the victory that was already promised we him? of texting, emails, and cell phones, want instant gratification. We want to say what we He had to persevere despite serious opposition. want way,through but this not God’s way. God He hadour to break theis obstacles to arrive wants us to be good listeners. He wants us at the place of victory. The king at that time to listen to others and to Him. Everyone has did not think David had the talent. Praise something to contribute in a conversation. Ecclesiastes 3:7 tells us that there is “A time to God, talent be silent and did not matter; a time to speak” (NIV). Inhad thethe process of listening, we must guard David ourselves against anger. James mentions this power and anointing in the verses above. Often we from God. hear about things in the You or have divine destiny in world inachurch, and we get angry. anger brings Christ. It mayThis be teaching, preaching, us to the brink of actions setting up tables, having intercession, that are contrary to God’s administration, writing, singing, doing purpose in the world. creative and drama, helping the In ourarts premature poor, or any kindor of service to God. anger, we other can say do things that we later You already have the victory to arrive at your regret. We should be calling. Your giant is already slain. The test quick to listen to the isentire this: When Satan or is other people question matter that
other Even more ispresented not your firstby battle. The people. Lord has brought you
so, we should be quick to listen to the voice and victory in the past. In the middle of your trial or battle, discernment of God so that we can properly remember the times He has provided for you. This will respond. A wise man once said, “If you are build your confidence to you walk will in victory now. Your always talking, then onlyright repeat what past bruises become future battleyou strategies! youbattle already know. Butyour if you listen, will have everything you currently know and 2. Keep in mind that David took five smooth learn what someone else knows at the same time.” stones to fight Goliath. This was not because he might timethat in particular we miss;One he knew victory was when assured. Wewant learn in to guard our words is when we are in the 2 Samuel that there were four more giants just like presence of God. Solomon wrote, “Guard your Goliath thatyou could attacked! 2 Sam.Go 21:15steps when gohave to the house(see of God. near listen rather to offer sacrifice 22).toSome people saythan that these werethe Goliath’s of fools, who do not know that they do wrong. brothers! In 1 Samuel 17, David was equipped Do not be quick with your mouth, do not be to fight future battles! This teaches us that hasty in your heart to utter anything before the calling God. God is in heaven and you are on earth, gives so let your words be few” (Eccl. 5:1-2God NIV). Sometimes we are so busy talking that we miss you and me God’s voice. We can miss His written Word has abundant provision. God as well. prepares us for future battles in the middle In Job 34:3-4, Elihu said, “For the ear of our current battle! tests words as the tongue tastes food. Paul wrote, “Therefore take up the Let us discern for ourselves what is wholelet armor God,together that you may be able right; us of learn what is to withstand in the evil day, and taste havingthe good” (NIV). Let’s listen, words and give proper done all,given, to stand” (Eph. 6:13 aASV). Christ response from God. Let’s listen to fights for us and has already fought for us. others, so we can listen to God and We to stand. We need the fight and the behave used of God. battle in our lives to learn the strength of our God in the middle of our human weakness.
your calling and divine destiny, will you keep
We need the fight and the struggle not for our
going forward? Will you give up when you
strength, but to realize the strength of our God.
face resistance? There are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to victorious living: 1. When Saul questioned David’s ability to fight, David simply recalled the previous
52 2016 50 // // December March 2016
Kelly KellyMcDonald, McDonald,Jr. Jr.isisan anordained ordained evangelist evangelistwith withHungry HungryHearts Hearts Ministries. Ministries.He Hehas haswritten written15 15books books and andbooklets bookletson onChristian ChristianLiving. Living. www.hungryheartsministry.com www.hungryheartsministry.com
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Gò0dNews from the Outdoors
Take a Kid Hunting
Every adventure in the outdoors, what you see and or don’t see, is different. by Rusty Asble
I
always heard the saying, “If you take your kids
am I supposed to wear? What is the name of that type
hunting, you don’t have to hunt your kids.” I have
of tree? Why is the land like that?” It was question after
come to realize how true that saying is. Kids want
question that helped me learn.
a sense of adventure. Yes, all kids are different and adventure is defined differently to everyone, but what I am talking about is everything that leads up to the adventure. So let’s begin.
The Wonder
Being
I remember my first deer hunt with my dad. The
details are ingrained within my memory. The broken Oak tree. The six-step wooden stand. The swamp behind me. The corn stubble field in front of me. Even
The outdoors stirs up something inside a child.
what it felt like, the wood I was sitting on, the breeze in
Questions are always asked, “What’s on the other side
my face, the chill in the air. The most important part is
of that hill? What’s down in the creek? What’s in those
seeing my dad across the field from me sitting in the old
woods? What are we going to do? How are we going to
Gum tree. I was with him and it was good.
do it?” This wonder is the first start of the adventure.
The Outcome.
I Want to Learn.
Every child, and many adults, want to learn how to
Each adventure can vary from being cold, wet, or
lost. It can be a successful hunt or a frustrating miss. It
do certain things in the outdoors. As a child, I wanted
can be messed up equipment or a practice paying off.
to learn how to clean a rabbit. I thought that would
The new season may be transforming the landscape or
make me a man. I asked questions like, “What type of
dryness dulling the view. However, there is one thing
animals can I hunt? What are the methods of how I can
that never gets old, and I always love the outcome—that
hunt? Where do rabbits live? Where can I hunt? What
is walking out hand in hand with your child as the sun sets and darkness encroaches, whispering about the hunt, and the opportunity for a next time. Until then . . . By Reverend Rusty Asble Taking Faith To The Field
54 // December 2016
Rusty Asble is the associate pastor of recreation administration at First Baptist Church, Cleveland, TN. He and his wife Stacy have three children: Ridge, Garrett, and Susie. They reside in Cleveland.
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