Gò0dNews December 2020
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CLEVELAND
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Andrew Lee Angela Hughes Ruiz Bekah Prytherch Brooke Hale Charles Finney Charlton S. Lewis Danette Reeves David West Dorothy Teague Douglas Baynes Evelyn Bathe Felicia Ratledge Glyndora Condon John Garrod Dr. Julius McCarter Leslie Bennett Sandra Gilmore Shirley J. Fink Stephanie Evans Dr. William Lamb
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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 six beautiful children, Brendon, Kailey, Andrew, Leah Jean, Emma, and Cooper. We live in Cleveland, Tennessee, 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,
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Contents DECEMBER 2020
GoodNews from the Pastor’s Desk
6 The Challenge of Advent and Christmas
by Dr. Julius McCarter
GoodNews for Kids
8 The Greatest Gift by Bekah Prytherch
GoodNews on Money Matters
10 What’s You Net Worth? by Andrew Lee
GoodNews for Men
12 Manly Lessons From A Little Old Lady
by John Garrod GoodNews for Women
14 Hidden Gifts
by Evelyn Bathe
GoodNews for Christmas
18 The Lights of Christmas by David West
GoodNews for Everyone
20 My Times Are In Your Hands by Sandra Gilmore
GoodNews for Life
22 Jumping To A Conclusion by Glyndora Condon
GoodNews for Everyone
24 Grow Through It! by Shirley J. Fink
GoodNews Cover Story
26 Discovery Outlet GoodNews for Everyone
28 Making A Gray Christmas Gray
by Stephanie Evans
GoodNews for Everyone
30 It’s Not About You...or Me by Dr. William Lamb
GoodNews for Everyone
32 Hymns and Hims by Charles Finney
GoodNews on Fear
34 Do Not Be Afraid by Dorothy Teague
GoodNews Business Spotlight
36 Inman Coffee
6
GoodNews for Everyone
38 That Which Cost Me Nothing by Danette Reeves
GoodNews for Everyone
40 A Still, Small Voice by Charlton S. Lewis
GoodNews for your Taste Buds
42 Chili
by Brooke Hale
GoodNews for Everyone
44 Rise and Be The Church
26
by Felicia Ratledge
GoodNews for Everyone
46 On Purpose
by Angela Hughes Ruiz
GoodNews for Everyone
48 Christmas
by Douglas Baynes
GoodNews for Everyone
50 Rise Up
by Leslie Bennett
48
Gò0dNews from the Pastor’s Desk
The Challenge of Advent and Christmas fter my first Advent/Christmas at my first congregation, I noted that sermons during this season frequently received negative responses from some in the congregation. What’s the problem? Is not this a prelude to one of the Christian year’s most joyous seasons? One person emerged after I had preached at the Advent service and accused me of “promoting irresponsible passivity” in my sermon. “You should remind us,” he said, “We are educated, responsible people who have been given the gifts to make the world a better place.” Yet what was I to preach, stuck as I was with the repeated Advent Gospel assertion that God really has come in Jesus Christ to do for us what we could not do for ourselves? How could I calibrate the Hebrew Scriptures’ prophetic announcement that history had again become interesting not because we had at last gotten organized but because God was moving among us? In short, my critic had gotten more than a whiff of eschatology and found its odor distinctly offensive to his activist, educated, progressive sensibilities. He, like most of us, would rather get better than be born again. He, like most of us, wants a world improved rather than made new. Advent is the season of “the last (Greek: eschatos) things,” a time of winter, death in nature, and the ending of another year. Yet it is also the beginning of the church year, a time of birth at Bethlehem, a time when we know not whether to name what is happening among us as “ending” or “beginning” because it feels both as if something old is dying and something new is being born. Christian eschatology, like Jewish eschatology before it, makes a claim about the future in which the Creator of the world at the beginning is fully revealed as the world’s Redeemer at the end. Eschatology is more a matter of Who? than When? “The end” is not so much a matter of chronology (When?) but rather a debate over who, in the end, is in charge. The hope for the coming of Christ in fullness has nothing to do with the hope engendered by wishful thinking, a positive mental attitude, or creative social programming. The good news of Advent and Christmas is that we are being met and reconstructed by a God who intends to make all things new.
6 // December 2020
More than likely, Advent eschatology offends us for more mundane reasons. I am at church seeking personal advice for how to have a happy marriage or how to get along with the boss next week only to have Advent wrench my gaze in our subjectivity in its insistence that whatever God is about in the Advent of Jesus, it is something quite large, quite cosmic, quite strange and humanly unmanageable, and something more significant than me. I am not the master of history. So let us begin with the honest admission that our real problem with these Advent/Christmas texts is largely political and economic. Tell me, “This world is ending. God has little vested interest in the present order,” and I shall hear it as bad news.
However, for a mother in a barrio in Mexico City who has lost four of her six children to starvation to hear, “This present world is not what God had in mind. God is not finished, and indeed is now moving, to break down and to rebuild in Jesus,” I presume that would sound something like Gospel. For her, the Advent/Christmas message presages a revolutionary conflagration. A great deal depends, in regard to our receptivity to these texts, on where we happen to be standing at the time when we get the news, “God is coming.” It’s Advent. Let the revolution begin. About The Author
A
by Dr. Julius McCarter
Dr. Julius McCarter is a husband to Kendra, a friend to some, a teacher to many and a follower of Christ. Julius has been a pastor and teacher for over 20 years. A lover of good books and music most of his life. His most recent book is Pastoralia: Reflections after 20 Years in Ministry.
Gò0dNews for Kids
The Greatest Gift
D
by Bekah Prytherch
o you like Christmas presents? Well, I do!
was born or will be born! Everyone can have this
Did you know that there will never be a
gift! And the best part is that it is free for all! All we
Christmas present as great as a Christmas
have to do is receive this wonderful, free gift.
present that we received over 2000 years ago!?!
The greatest gift that I am talking about is
You can think of all the Christmas presents in the
Jesus Christ. He was born of a virgin Mary on that
entire world that would be amazing and cool, but
Christmas night and he came to this world to give us a free gift of eternal life, so someday we can live in heaven with him. He died on the cross for you and for me and He took all of our sins so we could be free! His gift is free to all of us, because he already paid it in full! Have you received this gift from him, eternal life to live forever in heaven? “Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.
none of them can compare to the one that we got in
This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby
Bethlehem on that Christmas night, when Jesus was
wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger”
born in a manger. Luke 2 tells us about the birth of
(Luke 2:11-12).
Jesus and I encourage you to read this and learn all about Jesus’ birth. I think it is so cool that we all share this gift.
“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God” (Ephesians 2:8).
Sometimes it’s hard to share things, but this is a gift that we want to share with everybody. Not everybody and everyone in the whole world that
8 // December 2020
About The Author
only do you want to share it, but it is a gift given to
Bekah Prytherch is the children’s pastor at Heritage Fellowship Church of God in McDonald, Tennessee. She is married to her husband, Caleb, and they live in Cleveland, Tennessee.
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What’s Your Net Worth? 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.
T
he question posed in the title of this month’s column has multiple meanings. First, when was the last time you tabulated your own net worth, financially speaking? It’s an important metric, and wealthy and financially successful people know their net worth and monitor it often. Simply make a list of all your debts (liabilities) including mortgages, student loans, car loans, personal loans, lines of credit, as well as any credit card debts, medical bills, and so forth. Then, make a list of all your assets—money in savings, investment accounts, equity/value of real estate owned, cars, personal property, collectibles, etc. Subtract your debts (liabilities) from your assets, and the amount left over (if any) is your net worth. If you have more liabilities than assets, you have a negative net worth (hopefully not). For 2020, the median net worth for U.S. households is $97,300— meaning that half of all U.S. households have a net worth greater than this, while half of households have less. You may have heard this catchy maxim: “Your network determines your net worth.” This means that the people in your life (your network) will play a role in determining how financially successful you are. So, if you spend all your time with people who are financially illiterate or undisciplined with money, you will likely follow suit. But thankfully, we have control over our “network” and can make changes to improve our social connections by “networking”—meeting successful people and emulating their good money habits. Your network, friend group, or social circle do not have to remain stagnant. You always have a choice to reach out to others whom you admire and expand your network over time. After all, I’ve never heard of anyone who had too many friends (except maybe on social media).
10 // December 2020
Finally, let me pose the question again in a different context: “What’s your net, really worth?” What if your “net” includes your sphere of influence, as well as your talents that God has blessed you with, which you can use to “catch” others whom God puts in your path? And what if by using your “net” to “catch” and pour into the lives of these people, you can be a positive influence on others—spiritually, emotionally, and financially? So how far does your “net” reach? Do you spend every week and weekend within the same confined sphere of influence, never reaching beyond your comfort zone, never taking a risk to change your routine and meet new people? What does your “net” end up catching usually? Anxiety? Discontentment? Envy of others? Or does your net catch joy, love, grace, peace, and hope? The lives we reach with our net (gifts, talents, relationships), can reap an abundant harvest both in this life and in eternity for God’s kingdom. Once you’ve “caught” something in your net, what are you going to do with it? You decide. Do you throw it back? Or like the good steward in the Gospels who had ten talents, do you maximize your “catch” to help it reach its fullest potential? And remember, your net definitely includes your finances. How far does your financial net reach? Are you able to give generously to worthy causes? If not, consider making your net stronger by being intentional about your finances: track your spending, commit to save at least 10% of each month’s pay, invest for future growth, and make a regular habit of giving away some money each month. Strengthen your “net” and watch God reward your diligence and intentionality. As the disciples discovered in Luke 5:6, your net may soon be overflowing with blessings!
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Gò0dNews for Men
Manly Lessons From A Little Old Lady
I
by John Garrod
’ve been taught lots of things in my life: how to swing a
4. She did not underestimate God. In verse 3, Elisha tells
bat, block a linebacker, kick a ball. I’ve been taught how
her to go borrow vessels. “Not a few,” says the King James
to throw a punch, throw an opponent, throw a grenade,
version. She sends her sons out to borrow vessels. None
apply a choke, and apply handcuffs. I’ve been qualified
of this makes any sense to her at this point. I mean, how
with a pistol, a rifle, a submachine gun, and other Army
could it? But they GO, and they borrow vessels, and not a
toys. I know how to read a map on land or at sea. I can
few but a bunch: as many as they can.
even tie like three knots without looking them up online.
5. She followed through. She locks the door. “Why are
But hands down, one of the best lessons I’ve learned
we locking the door?” she probably thought. We have
was taught by a little old widow.
NOTHING for people to steal: unless there’s a vessel-
In 2 Kings chapter 4, we learn of a woman in a bad situation. She’s been left a widow. Her late husband, the son of one of the prophets, had no 401(k) program set up, and she is now in trouble. Debt collectors are coming to collect the only things she has left of value: her two sons. Faced with the loss of what she cherished most, she takes the right steps. 1. She admitted her status. This is a tough call for us men. For us to own up to the seriousness of our situation means that we have to face facts: We’re in over our heads. We have nothing. Well, nothing but that little jar of oil. 2. She called for help. Ouch! Even worse than stopping to
stealing gang on the loose. And then, she begins to pour
ask for directions is actually calling out for help. Yet that’s
the oil. She doesn’t question how this will work, like most
just what she did—she got the attention of the man of God,
of us men will do. She just…pours.
the only God who could help her: the God of the impossible. 3. She was obedient—absurdly obedient. Sometimes God
We men struggle with her lessons because they start with humility and require faith beyond comprehension.
asks us to do things that make NO sense—at least not to
We want to know how it will work, why it will work, and
our limited understanding. Like Moses trying to stall God,
what the secret is. And the little widow just laughs, smiles
we look at that stick and say, “Why throw this down? How
at her sons, and keeps pouring the oil.
will that help?” And once that stick starts slithering, well, God crazy?
12 // December 2020
About The Author
I for one am NOT looking to pick that thing up! What, is John Garrod is a father of six, husband of one. He is a recent graduate of Lee University (c/o ’19), a discipleship teacher at South Cleveland Church of God, and a U.S. Army veteran.
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Gò0dNews for Women
Hidden Gifts
“N
by Evelyn Bathe
ow thanks be to God for His indescribable gift
The following story illustrates how we can lose our focus and
which is precious beyond words!” (2 Corinthians
miss God’s greatest gifts: There once was an ancient Persian by
9:15).
the name of Ali Hafed who owned a large farm with orchards,
Everyone loves to receive gifts! Children can hardly wait to
grain fields, and gardens. He was a contented and wealthy man.
open their Christmas gifts, and some have been known to sneak a
One day, an ancient Buddhist priest told Ali Hafed that if he
peek before it’s time. Many parents who give gifts have learned the
had a handful of diamonds, he could purchase a whole country,
art of hiding them until they are able to wrap them and put them
and with a mine of diamonds, he could place his children upon
under the tree. As a parent, a few times, I have hidden gifts and
thrones. Ali Hafed heard this and went to his bed that night a
forgotten where I hid them, only to discover them much later!
discontented man. He said, “I want a mine of diamonds!” Early
When I was growing up, gifts were few and far between. In
in the morning, he sought out the priest. “Will you tell me where
fact, I don’t remember getting a lot of gifts at Christmas: certainly
I can find diamonds?” “Well,” said the priest, “If you will find a
not enough for my parents to hide. One memorable Christmas, I
river that runs over white sand between high mountains, you will
got a walking doll, and one special Christmas, my sister and I got a
find diamonds.” So Ali Hafed sold his farm, collected all his money, left his family in the charge of a neighbor, and went away in search of diamonds. After years of searching, his money was spent, and he passed away in rags and wretchedness. Meanwhile, one day, the man who purchased Ali Hafed’s farm led his camel out into the garden to drink. As that camel put its nose down into the water, the man noticed a curious flash of light from the shallow stream, and reaching in, he pulled out a black stone with light that reflected the colors of the rainbow. He took that stone into the house and left it on the mantel, then went on his way and forgot all about it. A few days after that, the same priest came to visit, saw that flash of light from the mantel, and exclaimed, “Here is a diamond!” They went into the garden, stirred up the white sands with their fingers, and came upon many more beautiful, valuable gems.
used bicycle to share. But the most wonderful gifts I remember that
According to the story, this marked the discovery of the diamond
made a lasting impression are:
mines of Golconda, the most valuable diamond mines in the
• The treat bags we got from the church filled with fruit, nuts, and candy • Friends and family visits when we would sit around cracking nuts and eating oranges, which we did not have except at Christmas • Learning parts and songs and carols, which we would perform at the Christmas programs
history of the ancient world. Had Ali Hafed remained at home rather than traveling to strange lands where he eventually faced starvation and ruin, he would have had “acres of diamonds.” Perhaps we should stop running to and fro in search of the perfect Christmas and focus on the true treasures of Christmas that have been there all along. Don’t allow the jewels of the Christmas season to remain hidden! Continue to give gifts as you have the
• The excitement of decorating the tree
opportunity to share with those you love and those less fortunate.
Many of those one-time precious gifts have been obscured
However, always give priority to sharing with others the real gem
by the trappings of present-day Christmases. But if we strip away
of Christmas, the blessing of Emmanuel, God with us!
make Christmas meaningful.
14 // December 2020
About The Author
those trappings, I believe we will still find the hidden gifts that
Evelyn Bathe is the wife of Joseph, mother of Jonathan, and grandmother of Brooklyn and Jackson. She has been a speaker for youth, women, and marriage conferences and served in various Christian ministries. Evelyn and her husband retired from pastoring and presently attend Peerless Road Church in Cleveland. Follow Evelyn’s blog at evelyntbathe.wordpress com.
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Cleveland Church Directory ACNA Emmanuel Fellowship Anglican Church (ACNA) 155 Inman Street East, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 400-3307
Apostolic
First Apostolic Church 4355 Holiday Inn Express Way Cleveland, TN 37312 (229) 343-6880
Assembly of God
Grace Assembly 1976 Westland Dr SW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-7729 Triune Assembly 301 Sunset Drive Cleveland, TN 37312
Baptist
Beacon Baptist Church 505 Corvin Rd NE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 472-7056 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 Berean Baptist Church 2355 Bucks Pocket Rd SE, Old Fort, TN 37362 (423) 478-1697 Big Spring Baptist Church 1415 Hardwick St SE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-1101 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 Cedar Springs Baptist Church 723 Cedar Springs Church Rd SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 479-5506 Center Point Baptist Church 1205 Lower River Rd NW Charleston, TN 37310 (423) 336-2133 Cleveland Cowboy Church 3040 Blythe Rd. Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-7936 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 Church At Grace Point 2595 Old Freewill Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 728-5050 Covenant Baptist Church 249 Calhoun Rd SE,
16 // December 2020
Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 559-2653 Dalton Pike Baptist Church 3055 Benton Pike NE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 472-7606 East Cleveland Baptist Church 1145 Arnold St NE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-8728 Echos of Mercy Baptist Church 535 Durkee Rd SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 715-9739 Elkmont Baptist Church 4030 Old Freewill Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 479-4600 Emmanuel Baptist Church 1227 Powerline Dr NE, Cleveland, TN 37323 Farmland Community Church 1675 Greendale Dr. SE Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 473-9891 First Baptist Church 1275 Stuart Road Cleveland, Tennessee 37312 (423) 709-9100 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 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 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 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 Public Church 850 17th St. NW Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 458-4405 Ridgeview Baptist Church 1501 S Ocoee St, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-5119 Samples Memorial Baptist Church 371 Samples Chapel Rd SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 476-2329 Shenandoah Baptist Church 138 Osment Rd SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 339-0103 Shiloh Baptist Church 3406 Blair Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 479-5755 Stuart Park Baptist Church 850 17th St NW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-6741 Tasso Baptist Church 164 Old Charleston Rd NE, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 559-2114 Temple Baptist Church 3070 Harrison Pike, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-6813 Thompson Spring Baptist Church 5660 Bates Pike SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 790-1823 Union Baptist Church 797 Hughes Lake Rd SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 559-1720 Valley View Baptist Church 4657 Spring Place Rd SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 472-7707 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 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 White Oak Baptist Church 2043 White Oak Valley Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 559-2359
Catholic
St Therese Catholic Church 900 Clingan Ridge Dr NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 476-8123
Charismatic
Cleveland Christian Fellowship 695 S Ocoee St, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-2642
Church of God
Agape Place Church of God 2611 Blue Springs Road SE Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-8691 Community Chapel Church of God 807 Blythe Ave SE Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 479-2143 Cornerstone Church of God 2823 Lee Hwy, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 478-0006 Church of God Sanctified, Inc. 746 First Street N.E. Cleveland, TN. 37311 (423) 479-3895 East Cleveland Church of God 900 15th St NE Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 479-3389 Fellowship of Praise Church of God 931 Inman Street East Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 479-3121 Grace Community Church of God 4745 Mouse Creek Road NW, Cleveland, TN 37312. (423) 614-0708 Heritage Fellowship Church of God 4635 South 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 Kinser Church of God 141 Kinser Road Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 476-7400 Lakeview Church of God 105 Pound Street SE Cleveland, TN 37323 (423)-790-5805 North Cleveland Church of God 335 11th St NE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-5513 Michigan Avenue Church of God 515 Minnis Road NE (423) 284-7573 Mt Olive Church of God 3522 Harrison Pike, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 479-3381 Mt View Church of God
210 Roadway Dr SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (706) 455-3528 Pine Hill Church of God 1484 Old Alabama Rd McDonald, TN 37353 (423) 488-0939 South Cleveland Church of God 1846 Volunteer Dr SW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-6382 Westmore Church of God 2412 Wolfe Dr NW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 479-3415
Church of God of Prophecy
Cleveland Spanish COGOP 2610 Grove Ave. Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 473-7199 Durkee Road COGOP 201 Durkee Rd. Cleveland, TN 37312 (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, TN 37311 (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
The Church of God
The Church of God Jerusalem Acres 1826 Dalton Pike SE Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-1597
Community
Fellowship in Christ 1025 Beech Circle NW Cleveland TN 37312 (423) 314-2382
Disciples of Christ
First Christian Church 3625 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 Mount Zion UMC 7223 Germantown Rd NW Cleveland, TN 37312 Pleasant Grove UMC 3043 Pleasant Grove Church Rd SW Cleveland, TN 37311 Red Hill United Methodist Church 527 Red Hill Valley Road SE Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 728-5413 South Cleveland United Methodist 1165 Church St SE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 507-5760 Tasso United Methodist 1106 Tasso Ln NE, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 479-4457 Trinity United Methodist Church 731 1st St SE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 614-7900 Valley Head Methodist Church 920 Mouse Creek Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 472-0575 Wesley Memorial Methodist 3405 Peerless Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 472-9578
Pentecostal
Faith Memorial Church 910 17th St NW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-6281 First United Pentecostal Church 4095 Peerless Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 476-9436 Full Gospel House of Prayer 1500 Wildwood Ave. Cleveland, TN Set Free Christian Fellowship 1175 King Edwards Ave. Cleveland, TN
Nazarene
Cleveland First Church Of The Nazarene 2712 Henderson Ave. Cleveland, TN 37312 423-472-7371 New Hope Church of the Nazarene 4514 Waterlevel Highway Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 473-3379
Non-Denominational
Benton Pike House Of Prayer 2615 Peach Orchard Hill Rd, Cleveland, TN 37323 Christian Fellowship Ctr 895 6th St NE,
Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 479-9591 Church Alive Ministries 6315 Mouse Creek Road NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 476-8133 Cleveland Community Chapel 1823 Forest Ridge Dr. Cleveland, TN 37311 Cleveland Cornerstone Church 533 Broad St NW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 479-1775 Cornerstone Family Church 4997 N. Lee Highway Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 380-9160 Community Hall Church 1305 6th Street Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472 2178 Dwelling Place Church International 523 Urbane Rd. NE Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 790-5200 Evening Light Gospel 200 20th St SE Cleveland, TN 37311 Fairhaven Ministry Center 1807 Blythe Ave. 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 (423) 790-7533 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 The Journey Church 3191 South Lee Hwy, McDonald, TN 37353 (423) 728-4100 Living By Faith Ministries 183 1st Street NW Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 457-9072 Living Word Church 930 25th Street, NW Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 339-3028 or The Net Church Bradley Square 12 200 Paul Huff Pkwy Cleveland, TN 37312 New Life Bible Church 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 Shema Israel Ministry 850 Elrod St SE Cleveland, TN 37311 423-994-8553 The Sanctuary 1203 Smith Dr.
Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 478-2843 Tasso Christian Church 1135 Tasso Lane, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 479-2705 The TRIBE 1175 King Edward Avenue SE Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 380-8802 United Christian Church 2200 Peerless Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 479-4277 Unity Christian Ministries 2419 Georgetown Rd NW Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 473-9338 Walker Valley Community 787 Lauderdale Memorial Hwy Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 336-9696
Presbyterian
Charleston Cumberland Presbyterian Church 8267 N Lee Hwy, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 336-5004 First Cumberland Presbyterian 161 2nd St NE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-6751 First Presbyterian Church 433 N Ocoee St, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-5584 Flint Springs Cumberland Presbyterian Church 515 Flint Springs Rd Cleveland TN. 37323 (423) 284-6397 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
Bowman Hills Adventist 300 Westview Dr NE Cleveland, TN 37312 Cleveland Fellowship Church 211 Trewhitt Drive Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 400-7054 East Cleveland Seventh-Day 801 Howard Circle SE Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-9299 Ladd Springs Seventh-Day 5860 Bates Pike SE Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 476-1889
Zion Assembly
Zion Assembly Church of God 5512 Waterlevel Hwy, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 476-3337
goodnewscm.com // 17
Gò0dNews for Christmas
The Lights of Christmas
A
by David West
s a young boy, I was fascinated by the
elaborate detail and attention that lines form as cars wait to
transformation of my hometown during the
drive by and take in the view. More trees may be artificial,
Christmas season. Brightly colored signs went up
but they stand in homes bearing beautiful lights, and music
on the light poles, shapes of angels, stars, and shepherds were suspended over the streets, and glittering lights made it all sparkle. For a few weeks, every trip downtown was
fills the air. Christmas lights and decorations speak the hopes and dreams of our hearts and faith. The tinsel and twinkle of the season have people slowing to watch the lights, helping their children see or understand the displays, and talking about what they have seen the next day. The music of Christmas is a special type of decoration. Watch the faces of people when they hear the music. See the smiles, the bright eyes? Listen as their voices join the chorus. It’s easy to be drawn to the lights and decorations of Christmas. Peace, love, hope, and redemption are, of course, the themes found in Christmas. Our decorated towns, houses, and trees proclaim these themes and create memories for us. While we consider these things, let us remember the other lights of Christmas. Those lights are the lives of believers. We don’t plug in or operate by
a journey into a special wonderland of dreams and color.
battery power, yet we are declared to be lights in a dark and
Homes added lights and decorations to the rooflines, yards,
often frightened world. Jesus declared, in the Sermon on the
and sometimes an outdoor tree to make the wonderland
Mount, that we are the light of the world (Matthew 5:15).
more spectacular. Inside those houses, trees, decorations,
He continued by saying in verse 16, “Let your light so shine
and gifts could be found that reflected each family’s unique
before men, that they may see your good works and give
celebration of Christmas. Now, in my older years, I look
glory to your Father who is in heaven.”
back and realize how powerful those decorations were. My
I can’t think of a better time to be reminded that our
small town in Northeast Louisiana was transformed into a
actions, our words, our attitudes as believers are to reflect
different world because of colors, lights, and designs. As the
the image of Christ. When I have to hurry and rush,
city changed visually, it became different in other ways that
when someone is on my last nerve, when everything is
are hard to describe. It was special.
inconvenient, I am still called to be a light for Christ. It may
After all the years, some towns still hang the lights, banners, and angels. Many houses are decorated with such
18 // December 2020
not always be easy, and sometimes I fail, but it’s always who we are called to be.
Gò0dNews
Christian Magazine
Mission Statement:
W
Writer Guidelines:
e believe when people are equipped,
Who: Our writers range from pastors, professors, and
motivated, and passionately engaged in
professional writers to stay at home moms and dads,
living out their faith in Jesus Christ they
business professionals, and others who have a desire to
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.
goodnewscm.com Phone: 423.478.6484
reach out to people through words of encouragement. What: We believe that it is important to laugh together, praise each other, encourage one another, and to offer biblical advice. Articles can be directed toward everyone, or from woman to woman, or man to man. We love to share recipes and family traditions as well. We ask that articles be kept to a 500 word maximum. We’d love to hear from you! Where: Please send submissions to articles.goodnews@gmail.com Why: Because God has not intended for us to just survive. We believe that we are intended to reach out to love and encourage each other. God has brought each of us through tough times, blessed us, and made the “impossible” possible. Let’s, together, share the love of Jesus Christ.
Gò0dNews for Everyone
My Times Are In Your Hands
“F
by Sandra Gilmore
rom the rising of the sun unto the going down
receive us. In fact, He is constantly pursuing communication
of the same the Lord’s name is to be praised”
with us.
(Psalm 113:3).
Before our trip to Europe a few years ago, friends
When our King was birthed from Heaven into an earthly life, He was birthed into the element of time. The
energetically offered all kinds of advice: drink lots of water,
God who marks time in His covenants from everlasting
don’t ever drink the water, pack light, pack all kinds of
to everlasting had to learn the days of the week. The One
stuff, take good walking shoes, take your own pillow. Their
whose shoulders shall bear the government (Isaiah 9:6) had
advice covered a lot of ground!
His days governed by hours and minutes.
No one mentioned the one aspect that I found most fascinating about traveling the globe: time. As the sun sets
He learned all about our human experiences, including our intimate and paradoxical relationship with time. He learned how pain makes us beg for minutes to move quickly and how deep joy yearns for minutes to linger like hours. He also wrestled with how the days are long but the years are short. Truly, He is “familiar with all [our] ways,” as David records in Psalm 139:3. Jesus understands our relationship with time. He also understands how Satan uses it as a weapon against us. Jesus knows there are just not enough hours in the day to manage all the entanglements Satan lays in our paths. That’s why Jesus says to come to Him because His burden and His yoke are light and easy (Matthew 11:30). Our days can be counted for Him and
on one side of the globe, the sun is rising on the other. As
connected with Him. We can also declare with the Psalmist
a day begins for some, a day ends for others. This gave me
in Psalm 113, “My times are in Your hands.”
new insight into the Scriptures, “Pray without ceasing” (1
What a gift! We have a Savior who is Sovereign over
Thessalonians 5:17), and “…indeed, He who watches over
all—from the smallest atom to galaxies so far away they are
Israel will neither slumber nor sleep” (Psalm 121:4).
yet undiscovered by scientists—and still, He understands
My appreciation deepened for how ceaselessly available the Lord is when we pray, anytime, anywhere. The verse
our time zone. He loves us minute to minute, and He loves us from everlasting to everlasting!
from Thessalonians uses the phrase “no ceasing,” which “mission” with us is continuous. He is constantly ready to
20 // December 2020
About The Author
means “no intermission” in the original language. His
Sandra Gilmore serves the Lord as wife, mom, and encourager, mostly through writing and speaking, occasionally through cooking, rarely through anything athletic and only because of the mercy and grace of Jesus. You can reach her by email: tandsgilmore@yahoo.com or her website: www.sandragilmore.org.
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Gò0dNews for Life
Jumping To A Conclusion
M
by Glyndora Condon
any who enter our office are suffering from
yourself, then you would have to admit that approximately
anxiety, especially today with COVID-19,
80% of these episodes actually did end on a positive note.
the unrest in this nation, and the escalating
This, therefore, means that approximately 20% of the time,
violence as the elections are drawing closer. Regardless of the situation, anxiety is most likely derived from the
something negative did occur. Right? Scripture instructs us not to be anxious about tomorrow
automatic thought distortion of jumping to a conclusion,
and suggests that we have plenty of problems in the present
which includes either mind-reading or foretelling the
moment of our day. Correct? Correct.
future. We logical and educated individuals would scoff at such a silly suggestion.
Who of us would sit home and not work if there were a 20% chance of rain? Some tell me that they are so anxious as
How many of us, however, will attempt to finish someone else’s sentence and then argue with that person that we know more about what they are thinking than they do? If we did not have a conflict prior to this attempt, we now do. It may be wise to know that we cannot read the other person’s mind and then trust that this person knows their intent, purpose, and what they were going to say. We do not. Foretelling the future is also a very common error that drives anxiety. Have you ever paced the floor, lost the ability to concentrate or focus, could not sleep, lost interest in prior pleasures, had intrusive and repeating thoughts, and possibly experienced panic attacks over what you believe will happen in the near future to you or to others? You are so
they are trying to prepare for anything that might go wrong,
positive of it that you will disqualify any attempt of others
but who of us would take a new auto in for a complete
to reason with you.
overhaul when nothing wrong is occurring because
If you admitted that you have done either of the above, then welcome to a thought distortion.
something bad might happen? Is it even possible to prepare for everything that could or might go wrong in any event?
Imagine you have tossed and turned for two weeks
No. Wouldn’t the best time to assess our options be when
over one of these expected catastrophes, and as you traveled
there is an issue? We cannot control what we do not know,
to the event, you felt sick to your stomach but had to go.
but God has control. Therefore, enjoy today and trust Him
You have replayed every possible negative episode of your
in our tomorrow. Peace, be still.
are actually enjoying the event and then feel most foolish for wasting your joy over nothing. If you were honest with
22 // December 2020
About The Author
imagination and are exhausted, yet you discover that you Glyndora Condon, MS, MFT, NCC, LPC; Heal and Hope Counseling Services. Mother of 4, grandmother of 8; entrepreneur of a Christian based counseling service; healhopecounseling.com.
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
Grow Through It! t is easy to feel defeated and hopeless when we face life’s challenges, disappointments, health problems, financial issues, and loss. God does not want us to go through it. He wants to be our refuge and for us to choose to have joy and Him in our hearts! Our Father wants us to “grow through” it. He wants us to do this with Him. He does not wish upon us worry, sadness, anxiety, or hopelessness. Our Almighty Father reminds us over and over in His Holy Word to trust in Him, for He is an all-powerful, forgiving, and loving God who is with you always. During these times, we tend to feel very alone, even when there is a myriad of support from family and friends. Psalm 145:9 says, “The Lord is good to all; He has compassion on all He has made.” We need to be gentle with ourselves and allow ourselves time to process, pray, meditate, accept, mourn, and YES, grow through it. In late 2015, my beautiful mom passed after a two-year battle with ALS (a horrific disease). Just four months later, our 22-year-old son, Aaron, overdosed on heroin. After a couple of football injuries in high school, doctors had prescribed hydrocodone, and he became an addict. Then, seven weeks later, our beautiful and only daughter went home to be with our Father in Heaven after her battle with brain cancer. All this in just eight months! So much had happened in such a short time span that I never grieved properly. I thought I had dealt with it. I am strong. I was terribly wrong! It all hit me hard much later. I was sad, angry (yes, with God), hopeless, and trying to avoid this terrible pain my heart and soul had endured. It was through those closest to me, especially my dad, who counseled and prayed with me and loved me through it, that I was able to make it. On July 12, 2020, my dad, Charles Laws, went home to our loving Father. You may recognize his name, as my dad was a regular contributor to Good News Magazine. We often discussed ideas, wrote a few articles together, and I would edit his writing. It was through Dad’s teachings, guidance, and faithfulness in his love of our Lord and Savior that I
24 // December 2020
was blessed to witness that I am able to share this with you today. My faith is strong. My love for Jesus is unwavering and unbreakable. I have a strong relationship with Him, and I chose not to go through it but to GROW THROUGH IT. Trust in Him and speak to Him, and He will listen. Pray, and He will answer. Walk with Him, and when you are unable, He will carry you through it. Psalm 125:1-2 says, “Those who trust in the Lord are like Mount Zion, which cannot be shaken but endures forever. As the mountains
surround Jerusalem, so the Lord surrounds His people both now and forevermore.” When we wake up in the morning, we should think powerful, positive thoughts and set our tone for the day. We should not think or get “stuck” on negative, debilitating thoughts. Not one place in the Bible does God say, “I am defeated! I am weak!” God is our encourager, our confidant, our everything. We must seek Him knowing our God will be with us always. He is our light, even in the darkest of times. Have faith and hope, and He will bless us with His mercy, grace, and love. God can change us and any situation into a testimony giving us the opportunity to witness to others. What a blessing we can gift to another who is going through it so they too can grow through it! About The Author
I
by Shirley J. Fink
Shirley J. Fink is the Mom of 5, Nana of 3, writer, blogger and holds a BA in Political Science/ Criminal Justice & Psychology from BVU. She can be found at: imnotmakingitup.com, imnotmakingitup@gmail.com.
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iscovery Outlet is a locally owned and
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home improvement, garden and outdoors, sporting
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whether you want to save two dollars on a family-
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We see the same faces three and four times a week
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Highway next to Don Ledford Chevrolet. Our goal is to be at least 20% cheaper than any other store on everything that we sell, but most items are discounted more than that. For 99% of what’s in our store, when it’s gone, it’s gone, and we receive new items almost every day. Just some of the categories of products that we sell are automotive, home decor, groceries—including fresh and frozen
26 // December 2020
inventory. Our motto, “Seek, Save, Enjoy,” truly sums up the experience at Discovery Outlet. We stand behind everything we sell with a money-back guarantee. We give back to the community in other ways besides our everyday low prices. At the beginning of the pandemic, when toilet paper was hard to get, we gave away 2,000 care packages with no restrictions: they included four rolls of toilet paper and three packs of sanitizing wipes. All people had to do was stop by the store and ask. We donated pallets of toilet paper to nursing homes that were in need. Best of all, throughout the entire shortage, we had toilet paper in stock at lower prices than the big box stores. Through our community day promotions, we partner with local charities like McKamey
We also give members a numbered envelope
Animal Center, the food bank, The Salvation Army,
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customer a check for the total amount of receipts
We also donate on an ongoing basis to the Ronald
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goodnewscm.com // 27
Gò0dNews for Everyone
Making A Gray Christmas Pink!
“F
by Stephanie Evans
or surely I know the plans I have for you…to give you a future with hope” (Jeremiah 29:11). Today I bought a string of 140 tiny, multi-
I don’t know if I’ll splurge for a tree at all because to me, the lights are the main attraction. Lights can drape across a pretty dark wood desk or sit quietly on a delicate
colored Christmas lights that sit on a chocolate-brown
chartreuse tea towel a friend brought me from Turkey. My
cushion-y rocking chair. One of my brothers gave me the
tiny lights may sit happily in my apartment window to keep
chair for my new place after I lost my home during a “gray
the cold company and (hopefully) delight my neighbors.
divorce” about 11 years ago.
Those tiny lights may dance for joy near my children’s and
In the years 2015-2020, “gray divorce” raged, with couples splitting up in middle age after decades of somehow
granddaughter’s photos. See them, over there, just across the room at eye level?
making their marriages work and rearing their children. In my case, my husband divorced me and married another woman within one year. (Incidentally, they reside in another state, and I took my maiden name back). I can state all that as facts and not rage or cry now. (Although not being able to be grandparents to our new grandchild together hurts, we both love her from where we are and keep the peace.) To me, gray divorce reminds me of the split-up between the apostles Paul and Barnabas in the Bible (Acts 15:36-41). Christians both, Paul and Barnabas still disagreed so sharply that they went their separate ways. God worked all things together for good, as He promises in Romans 8:28 for those who love Him. Still, the split between Paul and
Maybe I’ll wrap all those twinkling colors around
Barnabas saddens me. My divorce still saddens me, but
my gold-colored table lamp (also a gift!). This lamp
by God’s grace, I learn new ways to celebrate Christmas
holds (alas!) a real incandescent light bulb, which I managed
and other holidays. (They are sometimes more blue than
to save from the worldwide LED turnover. I use the
peachy, but as I’ve read, “Hope despairs, but despair
incandescent bulb sparingly because I like its gentleness.
hopes” (and keeps Kleenex on stand-by!). But back to Big Lots, where I found so
But who knows?! Only God knows, of course, but maybe, Lord willing, I’ll just light up the porch with
many kind people, fabulous merchandise, and my mini-all-
something papier-mâché (wink wink). As long as there’s
colors lights! I’ve always loved the tiny lights in all colors.
hope for peace, there’s hope! YAY CHRISTMAS!
Once upon a time, I dreamed of having a pink Christmas tree a pink tree today, but I decided, no, too pink; maybe I’ll go with a small traditional green tree, or maybe not.
28 // December 2020
About The Author
(fake, of course!) with pink lights. Big Lots actually displayed Stephanie B. Evans is a resident of Cleveland, TN, mother of two adult children and grandmother to one granddaughter. She is a former newspaper reporter, feature writer and library clerk who currently writes on a freelance basis. She can be reached at s.b.evans287@gmail.com
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
It’s Not About You…or Me
I
by Dr. William Lamb
n present day, these words are not popular but they are
to each one, we can all agree that there are negotiables and
necessary…it’s not about you or me.
non-negotiables. Just in case you are wondering, there are
To be honest, it never has been. I mean, I understand
plenty of non-tangibles that make the list (e.g. relationships,
how we can think life is about us. I like a nice meal, nice
companionship, mental health, emotional intelligence, etc.).
comfortable clothes, a few items to support my hobbies,
Don’t miss the point here, I am not concerned with what
the benefit of a working air condition, the luxury of a
you have or how much you have. That doesn’t really matter
lockable door to maintain safety, the hope of a financially
to me. What matters is what we do with what we have.
supported retirement, the privilege of choice, the promise of a harmonious meal with multiple family members because we do not fight, a party celebrating my birthday or worthy accomplishment, a Christmas present, and the ability to live free and do what I want to do. In present day, these words are not popular but they are necessary…it’s not about you or me. For 18 years, I have challenged college students on the way they need to see the world and others. Each semester, we usually talk about ism’s and injustices as well as the misfortunes of lack and the benefit of plenty. Yes, I am aware that lack can also be a benefit and plenty can be a curse depending on how the person holding these resources uses them. To foster communication around this topic, I draw an ascending three step stair case on
In present day, these words are not popular but they are necessary…it’s not about you or me. If you are still reading this article then try this. Take
the presentation board and label each step accordingly
out a piece of paper and create the image described earlier
with the word needs (first step), wants (second step), and
with the steps and make your own list placing the items in
excess (third step). These conversations usually offer an
the appropriate category. Then, recognize that what you
array of responses especially students from 1st world and
have has never been primarily for your benefit but rather
from 3rd world countries talk about the vast description
designed to help you serve others well. So, use what you
of “needs”. For example, most students would attest that
have for the good of others and you will most likely have
shelter is a need while the reality is for some, shelter pales
more and more to give away. This is always the better way.
After a lengthy conversation with a growing list of “things” in each category and the challenge to assign a value
30 // December 2020
Oh, don’t forget… it’s not about you or me but it is about others. About The Author
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
Hymns and Hims
O
by Charles Finney
ne Sunday, a pastor told his congregation that the church needed some extra money and asked the people to prayerfully consider giving a little extra in the offering plate. He said that whoever gave the most would be able to pick out three hymns. After the offering plates were passed, the pastor glanced down and noticed that someone had placed a $1,000 bill in the offering. He was so excited that he immediately shared his joy with his congregation and said he’d like to personally thank the person who placed the money in the plate. And there sat our Rosie, all the way in the back, shyly raising her hand.
The pastor asked her to come to the front. Slowly, she made her way to the pastor. He told her how wonderful it was that she gave so much and, in thanksgiving, asked her to pick out three hymns. Her eyes brightened as she looked over the congregation, pointed to the three most handsome men in the building, and said, “I’ll take him, and him, and him!” A friend of mine tells of a story where a woman went through a divorce from an abusive husband. She remarried several years later. Her daughter went to ask her dad for a favor. In his anger, he said, “Get Him to do it.” The second husband’s reply to his stepdaughter was not to worry. But she insisted in a crying voice, “Dad said, ‘Get Him to do it!’” Her stepfather’s only reply was, “Daughter, don’t you know what a Him (Hymn) is? I am only a song in your dad’s heart.”
32 // December 2020
A hymn is a type of song written for the purpose of adoration or prayer. The word hymn derives from the Greek word ὕμνος (hymns), which means “a song of praise.” The heavens make sounds and sing to the Lord. Planets do emit radiation which can be used to make sounds. We can hear them in the form of electromagnetic vibrations that are detectable by instruments NASA has developed. These sounds come from the electronic vibrations of planets, moons, rings, and basically every body you find in space. The light God created even sings at a frequency of its own. Psalm 47:7: “For God is the King of all the earth: sing ye praises with understanding.” Luke 19:40: “And he answered and said unto them, I tell you that, if these should hold their peace, the stones would immediately cry out.” Ringing rocks are rocks that resonate like a bell when struck. The rocks will ring out praises. Mankind has an inner song that resonates. He expresses it through an indication of feeling, spirit, character, etc., either on the face or in the voice. Some are in agreement; some are not. Proverbs 27:2: “Let another man praise thee, and not thine own mouth; a stranger, and not thine own lips.” We should first sing to God, then our families, then our neighbors: never to ourselves, as then we would be boasting. Psalm 47:6: “Sing praises to God, sing praises: sing praises unto our King, sing praises.” When two or more join together in unity, in love, in Christ, their voices touch even Heaven and are renewed. Colossians 3:10-11: “And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him: Where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian, bond nor free: but Christ is all, and in all.” Sing a Hymn to Him. Jude 1:24-25: “Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy, To the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen.”
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Gò0dNews on Fear
Do Not Be Afraid by Dorothy Teague
I
’ve always admired anyone that can play chess. It’s
Since March, God has been bringing a particular
such a complicated game that involves strategizing
scripture to my mind. “Be strong and courageous.
and planning ahead. Back in my teenage years,
Do not be afraid or terrified …, for the Lord your
my family visited relatives in Florida, where my two
God goes with you; He will never leave you nor
young cousins tried to teach me how to play chess. I
forsake you… Do not be afraid or discouraged”
never did get it but I admired them for how well they
(Deuteronomy 31:6 & 8). I thought it was for my
played at such a young age.
husband who was having heart issues and was
I recently watched a series about a young girl
about to undergo a heart catherization, but then I
who could see all the chess moves in her mind. I was
kept hearing it afterwards. I heard it in sermons, saw it in print, and heard it in my spirit as the election got closer and the war waged on against the dreaded Covid virus. Now, with perspective, I see some of the reasons why He spoke this to my heart. But His word is like an onion, revealing itself layer by layer. He reveals things to me a little at a time as I can handle it. I believe the Lord wants us to seek Him and His will as individuals and as a nation so that He can bless us. “Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord” (Psalm 33:12).
captivated by how she could think through the moves
I don’t know what the new year will bring, because
and how they would play out. The thought came to
I can’t see the moves on the board and how they will
me that God does that with our lives. He moves the
play out. I Do know that God has promised to always
chess pieces around the board to set things up in
be with me, even to the end of the world, (Matthew
order to accomplish His plans and purpose. It may not
28:20). Until then, I’ll keep singing the song I learned
seem good or look like it’s going to turn out for the
long ago, “He’s got the whole world in His hands.”
best when it’s happening to us, because we can’t see things, God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to His purposes.”
34 // December 2020
About The Author
how it’s going to play out. Romans 8:28 says, “…in all Dorothy Teague is a Tennessee native, who resides in McMinn County with her husband, Lewis, on their farm. After completing 31.5 years as a teacher in the Bradley County School System, she is active in her church at Eastanallee Baptist Church where she is a member of the choir and praise team.
B a s is w P b
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Gò0dNews Business Spotlight
Inman Coffee
I
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a full line of custom coffee drinks to suit all your desires! Recognized in “Southern Living” as one of the Best Coffee Shops in the South, Inman Coffee has been serving directtrade, socially conscious coffee in Cleveland for nine years! Founded by Joel and Cheryl Rogers, Inman is a social ministry of The Salvation Army. When you drink coffee from Inman, you help them do good in the community. In fact, the impact can be immediate: dozens of students have been a part of their student leadership internship program, learning life skills and job skills while also developing their skills as young leaders and difference makers. When you visit their shop, you can also catch a glimpse of their impact wall—a world map with faces and stories of people who have been directly impacted by the ministry of Inman and are making a difference around the globe. Since its opening, Inman has become known not just for great coffee, but for their music! They have hosted over 550 shows since their first day; many musicians have found their beginnings in this quaint space. From local musicians and touring acts to American Idols and Grammy winners, Inman has played host to all of them. While you can get many familiar drinks at Inman— cappuccinos, lattes, mochas, and frozen drinks—there is one drink that has been a signature drink since their opening and their best-selling drink since day one: the Black Tie Affair. Available frozen, iced, or hot, it is a mix of chocolate chai, vanilla chai, espresso, and milk that has kept customers coming back over and over again. Inman is known for their innovation and creativity, and there is always a slew of unique creations and seasonal flavors available, such as their Christmas movie-themed seasonal menu, with features like “The Grinch,” “Cousin Eddy’s Dirty Eggnog,” “Buddy The Elf,” or “The Filthy Animal,” a full lineup of pumpkin, maple, peppermint, and gingerbread drinks to satisfy your holiday taste buds, and truly delightful originals like their “Campfire Cold Brew,”
36 // December 2020
which is a bourbon-caramel cold-brew coffee with a toasted marshmallow milk foam, or their “Cookie Butter Latte.” The coffee is their own as well—they pride themselves on their custom roasted coffee and in their coffee creation bar, where you can craft your own unique coffee blend to take home or gift to friends and family. They also have their coffee beans available for sale in Cooke’s Food Store, where you can get one of a dozen of their flavors or varieties for your home. Inman is also home to delicious, homemade treats: Nutella Turnovers, Gooey Butter Cakes, and Espresso Bark are made right there for your enjoyment! They also have a collection of seasonal treats: Pumpkin Truffles and Cranberry Christmas Bars sell quickly from their cabinet. You can also enjoy (or buy to take home) COCOA BOMBS! This trendy new creation melts into your cup and explodes with cocoa and marshmallows for a truly unique treat. Come and enjoy shopping from their collection of local goods with a unique coffee twist, including locally made candles (including the Inman-exclusive “Coffeehouse” scent), handmade Christmas ornaments, thermal cups, mugs, shirts, and so much more.
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
That Which Cost Me Nothing
I
by Danette Reeves
n 1 Chronicles 21:18-27, David has been told to build
our hearts and gifts bring glory to God? Have we sacrificed
an altar to God on the threshing floor of Ornan. When
sleep, “me time,” and money? Have we repented? Have
he arrives, Ornan basically gives David not only the
we humbled ourselves before Him? Has the offering of
threshing floor but also the animals, the wheat, and the wood. David’s response is intriguing to me. He says,
ourselves to God cost us anything? I am convinced that whatever we bring to God should
“No, but I will buy them at full price. I will not take for
cost us. I am fearful that we have (that I have) diminished
the Lord what is yours, nor offer burnt offerings that cost
God’s holiness and awesomeness. If you were going to
me nothing.”
perform for the Queen of England, would you not do your very best to be prepared? If you were going to cook for the greatest chef in the world, would you not do trial runs to try to bring your meal to perfection? If you were going to teach a university class, would you not have worked on your own education and also prepared for the class? Why, then, do we think we can just run into God’s presence or do His ministry without being prepared? He is much more holy and awesome than anyone on this earth. Have we become so comfortable with who we think God is that we feel no need to study to show ourselves approved (2 Timothy 2:15)? No need to come into His Presence
Thankfully, we live on this side of the cross where we no longer have to offer burnt offerings because Jesus
with a clean and pure heart, with holy hands (Psalm 24:3-5)? This is not a works-based theology. We are saved by
became the perfect and final sacrifice for our sins. But the
Jesus alone. We cannot work our way into God’s good
question remains: Do we ever bring to God the things
graces. However, everything we do for Him is an offering:
which cost us nothing?
an offering of love, praise, and thankfulness to our perfect,
We live in a world of doing whatever feels good
holy, wonderful God and King. I want to stand like David
whenever we please. Church is often done the same way.
in 2 Samuel 24:24, saying, “…I will not offer burnt offerings
We get up on Sunday morning after staying up late on
to the Lord my God that cost me nothing.” Will you join
Saturday night and rush to get ready so we can make our
me in this journey? He is worth the cost.
appearance in our local churches. Are we rushing into our hearts and minds roaring with the things of life? Have we taken time to prepare? Have we practiced well so that
38 // December 2020
About The Author
God’s presence without any preparation? Do we sing with
Danette Reeves teaches a Ladies’ Discipleship Class and is the Ladies Fellowship Director at First Baptist Church, Calhoun, Tennessee, as well as being active in the church music ministries. She lives in Cleveland, Tennessee, with her husband, Charlie, and is a mom to three grown children and Oma to four grandchildren.
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
A Still, Small Voice
T
by Charlton S. Lewis
he thundering blast of tornadoes, the
Okay, I don’t have the answers to all the uproar
destructive pressure of storm surges and other
happening in our world today, but I do know what He
flooding, the crumbling infrastructure from
is saying to me in His still, small voice. And what He is
quaking earth, the annihilation of everything in the
delicately whispering can change me.
paths of out of control wildfires: these all add to the heart-wrenching cries of families who have lost loved ones to COVID-19, wrongful shootings, and other terrible injustices. These have been the sounds of this year, and it has caused me to long for comfort, for peace, for reason, for justice. It is hard to hear anything that is good over the constant turmoil. But with these sounds of life so loud that they make me long for something quieter, can God get my attention above the “noise” in my heart that comes from my environment? Can I recognize His voice? In 1 Kings chapter 19, we find after he had seen a great manifestation of God’s power, Elijah fled to the wilderness in fear of Queen Jezebel. When it was time to get his attention, God told him to go and stand before the mountain. I think He was basically saying, “Observe.” A strong
Psalm 46:10 is my answer: “He says, ‘Be still,
wind blew and broke up the rocks, but God was not
and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the
in it. Then, there came an earthquake. And that was
nations, I will be exalted in the earth.’” I must turn my
followed by a fire, but God was in neither of these.
volume down and listen to that delicate whisper that
After those attention-getting manifestations, he heard a
says, “Be still, and know that I am God.” I cannot solve
still, small voice. God’s instructions for Elijah came in
the situations that need attention, but I can be still and
a very calm way. There is a footnote I like: “a delicate
know God. He will be exalted among the nations. He
whispering voice.”
will be exalted in the earth.
Wow! After the loud events all around Elijah, there came a still, small, “delicate” voice. And over all the
As I listen, may I hear that still, small voice and see Him exalted. And may that change me. Amen, let it be!
various sounds that I hear surrounding me, God can He is saying?
40 // December 2020
About The Author
speak in that same still, small voice. Will I hear what
Charlton S. Lewis is a retired civil engineer from the USDA Forest Service. He and his wife Paulette have three daughters, seven grandchildren, and two great grandchildren.
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Gò0dNews for your Taste Buds
Chili
by Brooke Hale
T
his chili will be sure to keep you warm all winter long. Chili is definitely a staple in my house. It is my husband’s absolute favorite, and honestly one
of mine, too! It’s incredibly flavorful, easy AND one pot (minimal dishes), and it can be served a number of ways.
Ingredients Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 2 ½ hours • 2 lbs lean ground beef • 1 tsp salt • 1 tsp pepper • 1/2 tsp chili powder • 1/2 tsp cumin • 1/2 tsp paprika • 1/2 tsp garlic powder • 1/2 tsp onion powder • 1/2 tsp thyme
Instructions 1. Brown and crumble the ground beef. When starting to brown, add seasonings and continue to brown and crumble. 2. While the beef is cooking, dice your onion, green bell pepper, and 2 of your jalapenos. Make sure to take out the seeds and ribs. Add the veggies to the pot with the beef and simmer until slightly softened, about 5 minutes. Remember to wash hands and utensils thoroughly after handling the jalapeno and its insides. 3. Add the Rotel tomatoes with green chiles, 2 cans of chili beans, the better than beef bouillon, and stir to combine. Add 2/3 of the V8 container and stir. When it starts to bubble, turn heat to low and partially cover (tilt the lid) and simmer for 2 hours stirring occasionally. 4. If chili is too thick, add more V8 until you like the consistency. Add the brown sugar and stir. Taste the chili and season accordingly. If you choose, add the corn here. Serve!
• 1 medium onion diced
I like to serve my chili topped with shredded cheese, red
• 1 green bell pepper diced
onions, and jalapenos. Feel free to add a dollop of sour cream,
• 3 jalapenos seeded, cleaned and diced (divided) • 1 can mild Rotel with green chiles • 2 cans of mild chili mixed beans (NOT drained) • 2 tablespoons better than beef bouillon • 2/3 container of 46oz V8 spicy hot • 2 tbsp brown sugar • (optional- ½ bag frozen corn) • shredded cheese (for topping) • red onion diced (for topping) 42 // December 2020
or some chips (Fritos are my favorite). I serve it over elbow macaroni for my toddlers. Can also be used to top a hot dog!
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
Rise and Be The Church
R
by Felicia Ratledge
ecently, the Lord began to show me things about
strive with man always. Listen, I can’t explain what I started
myself and I just so happened to be at work. We
to feel as I was standing there working. It was indescribable.
seem to always think that we are right and that our
It was like I felt him lifting His Spirit all the way off of me.
ways are right, but scripture says, “All the ways of a man
As I felt the lifting; I started to get terrified. I began to just
are clean in his own eyes but the Lord weighs Spirits”
weep like a baby and beg God not to take his Spirit from me.
(Proverbs 16:2). A lot of people seem to think that God is
Throughout the rest of the day I found myself saying “Lord
too sweet to bring his wrath on them. Don’t get me wrong,
are you there?” I got nothing back and did not feel a thing.
God is so loving and gracious and He’s given us chance
I will admit that I have been stubborn and in my own ways
after chance after chance. I’m here to let you know my
lately and I do know better. We tend to make this walk with God harder than it is, but it’s really not hard. So I clock out of work, I’m walking to my car, and it is then that the Lord begins to deal with me again. He lets me know that he was showing me what it would feel and be like if He were to lift his Spirit and turn his back on me as I had done Him. He begins speaking and tells me to HUSH and LINE UP! He said you speak as I lead and tell you. He let me know that he had already equipped me for this walk but I wasn’t letting him be the head in my life. There is a door I've been needing to open and God let
friend that God is fed up with a lot of our mess and yes
me know that until I drop this weight and sin that he wasn't
he’s slow to anger—thank God for that because honestly I
doing a thing. But he also let me know as I line up that he
don’t want to experience his anger.
would do the elevating in this season. God has chosen you
I was at work and it was after my lunch break that the
and he wants to elevate you in this season. Stop blocking
Lord began to deal with me and I knew it was him. People
your blessings! God is making a call in this season and he is
would often ask me how I knew it was God? Let me answer
saying for YOU TO RISE UP AND BE THE CHURCH!
that question with a question. Does the enemy tell you me. He began letting me know that His Spirit would not
44 // December 2020
About The Author
anything good? But God spoke the scripture Genesis 6:3 to
Felicia Ratledge is a mother of three and she attends Dwelling Place Church International. She is an evangelist who speaks what God commands her to speak. It is her mission is to bring emotional healing to those who are hurt and broken hearted, declaring freedom to the bound.
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
On Purpose
A
by Angela Hughes Ruiz
s I write this article, I am remembering some of the more simple times during the holidays when I was growing up. Family
was always important. We would go visit my grandparents in North Georgia. They didn’t have an abundance of money or a fancy house, but there was
lots of love. Grandpa’s favorite part of the season was his soft peppermint sticks. He would always have a stash on hand to give the grandkids. Grandma loved to cook a simple traditional meal and made sure everyone had something to unwrap even if it was only a pair of socks or a $5 bill. That was actually a large amount for their fixed income. It wasn’t the cost of the gift or the amount that mattered. What really mattered was just being there to celebrate the birth of Christ with them. We would help them decorate the house with the little silver tinsel tree. I don’t remember many of the decorations on it, but I do remember popping corn and stringing it to put around the tree. There were some red glass balls and other ornaments, nothing too fancy. I thought it was the best tree ever. During the hustle and bustle of this season, it is easy to get so caught up in the rush that we forget what is truly important. We start to feel overwhelmed. God wants us to be more intentional with our time, to do things with purpose. Take time for family, enjoy each other’s company and make memories.
But sleep feels so good right now. The covers are warm on this brisk, cool morning. Yet He woos you, Never intrusive. He wants nothing…. No thing more than to hold you in His arms, To love you. He kisses your cheek with the soft light of morning, Just as He kissed the earth with the sweet drops of dew.
In the spirit of remembering the true meaning of Christmas,
The morning fog lifts ever so gently,
Christ longs to spend quiet time with us also. It is so easy to get
As the sun rises higher in the beautiful blue sky that emerges.
caught up in decorating, shopping, wrapping and cooking, that
“I just want to hold you in my arms. Let me love you. I will keep you warm.”
we forget to enjoy the gifts He has given us. Take time out to spend some special moments with Him today. Be intentional to notice the small, quiet ways He is drawing you.
Kisses Like Dew
As you snuggle up to those big loving arms, the day’s cares melt away Like the fog that lifts and disappears in the bright morning Son. There is no better place to be than with the One.
Morning breaks. “Wake up my love! I want to spend time with you.”
46 // December 2020
About The Author
You feel that gentle stirring in your innermost being. Angela Hughes Ruiz is the secretary to the Dean of Humanities, English and Social Sciences at Cleveland State Community College where she received her A.S. in Criminal Justice. She has served in many areas of ministry including youth, music, missions, security, ministry liaison, life clinic admin, and was a volunteer/employee previously at the Sheriff’s Office. Her biggest accomplishment in life is her son, Caleb.
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
Christmas
N
by Douglas Baynes
ow close your eyes and say that one word once
trees in the house. We have to purposely remember that
more. What does that bring to mind? Was it peace
Jesus is the reason that we enjoy this all. The birth of our
on earth, good will to men, or maybe a song: “Mary
Lord and Savior should always be the center of all this on
Did You Know”? I’m just going out on a limb here, but could it be you didn’t? Okay, if I close my eyes and say it slowly—Christmas—I get this. Burl Ives is singing “Have a Holly Jolly Christmas.”
our hearts and minds. As a boy, the Baynes family that lived on Darke Boulevard in Cleveland, Ohio, only had two decorations. Dad and Mom would put the tree up in the middle of the
Annie is decorating one of our three trees in the house, or
picture window a week before Christmas: bubble lights,
maybe all at the same time, as the décor is removed from
fragile glass ornaments, a good covering of aluminum
various boxes. All the pictures have been changed to holiday
icicles, and a nativity display that was on the coffee table. The barn was made of wood, and it had some real hay for the manger that the porcelain baby Jesus lay in. I still remember playing with the camels. The ’50s and ’60s were simpler times. We always had a Christmas Eve service, and the remembrance of Christ’s birthday never was to be overlooked by Santa Claus. This has been a trying year: sickness and so many out of work, the uncertainty of the new year, and the changing of our government. I don’t remember seeing so many folks here the first week of November who had all their Christmas decorations up. I think so many are hoping for
themes. Annie has even remodeled the bathrooms, and
the holiday season to make the ending of this trying year
spare toilet paper rolls have bows tied around them. I have
in some way get better. What started in a manger on a cold
my Lionel trains circling a winter scene in the corner of the
winter’s night ended with a sunny, warm morning 33 years
living room, and the TV is now locked on the Hallmark
later and hope for all through Christ: from Jesus’ beginnings
channel until January. You know you always have to watch
in a manger to Christ our risen Savior. From our home to
until the end to see IF the actors make that Christmas
yours, may the love that was seen as a babe so long ago be
connection! Tell me you don’t.
remembered in your hearts this year in the form of our risen
Now tell the truth and shame the devil, as Grandma
Savior and that He is only a prayer away.
has nothing on the Baynes’s home at Christmas. Much of America is no different from us: well, maybe a few fewer
48 // December 2020
About The Author
Douglas would tell me. Let’s be frank here: Clark Griswold C. Douglas Baynes lives in Cleveland, Tennessee, with his wife of 39 years, Annie. They attend Peerless Road Church of God of Prophecy.
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
Rise Up hen life beats you down, are you the “up and out” or the “down and out” type? Life is full of ups and downs, highs and lows, successes and failures, celebrations and disappointments. Our circumstances on any given day can be the result of choices we’ve made or things we had nothing to do with.
One thing is for sure: Satan comes after God’s children to sift us as wheat, to steal our song, and to destroy our testimony. It is up to us how we respond to the assaults of the enemy. We can wallow in self-pity, dig a hole, get in, and pull the dirt in on top of us, but choosing to remain in this state will get us nowhere and will benefit no one. 50 // December 2020
A better choice would be to pull ourselves up by our bootstraps, get in the Word and pray for God to help us put one foot in front of the other, and move forward. God has promised that He will fight for us. When the world sees us rising up and allowing God to fight our battles, it is such a witness to the grace and mercy of God in our life. Will it be easy? No. Will it be worth it? Absolutely. I have watched a friend rise up and allow God to fight for her during a devastating time in her life. It has been such a blessing and encouragement to me. I know it hasn’t been easy, and I’m sure she has had days when she felt like giving up, but God is with her and is continuing to do a wonderful work in her life. Her example has spoken volumes to me. God loves us dearly. We are His children, and He doesn’t want us to remain in a pit of despair. He is our strength and our song. I have witnessed it, and it has proven to be true. We can claim victory over the enemy! About The Author
W
by Leslie Bennett
Leslie Bennett is a kindergarten assistant at Michigan Avenue School. She is a member of First Baptist Church and sings in the adult choir. She manages a blog at ohyesshedid.org.
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