January 2017 by GoodNews Christian Magazine

Gò0dNews January 2017

Complimentary

Christian Magazine

Cleveland

• “Thanks Be to God” p. 6 • OVERCOMING ANXIETY p. 38 • Spiritual New Year’s Resolution p. 50

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Writers

Alicia Klepper Andrew Lee Angie Parris Caleb Prytherch Chari Buckner David Gray Delaney Walker Destiny Hope Shreve Don Smith Esmerelda Lee Glenda Prichard Dr. Greg Collins Hannah Davis Dr. James Marcum Jennifer Govea Julius McCarter Kelly McDonald Jr. Kristy Adams Mark Klepper Mike Shreve Rusty Asble Terrie Ruff

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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

have a framed picture in my office, given to me by a friend, that has three different shoes on it—a dressy high-heeled shoe, a fancy boot, and a walking shoe. The caption reads: “I can deal with anything if I have the right shoes.” This is one of many shoe “things”—scarves, hats, pins, blouses, dresses, umbrellas, purses, and many miniature collectible shoes—given to me since my book, Sand in My Shoes, was published. However, this particular picture is meaningful, especially in times of disappointments. And along with the joyful occasions and momentous happenings, there will be times of disappointment in the coming year. In his book, The Windshield Is Bigger Than the Rearview Mirror, Jeff Wickwire describes the pain of dealing with disappointment: “There are some needles only God can thread on our life tapestries.” We try so hard to figure out the whys, but each time we come up with more hurt and questions. Only when we practice forgiveness do we discover a fresh ability to focus on the future. Wickwire adds: “The scene out of the rearview mirror is replaced with an expanded view through the windshield of hope and faith.” I know it takes more than the right kind of shoes to deal with whatever life throws in our paths, but God’s decree will overshadow any disappointment, failure, wrong decision, or misstep we might take. I’m confident that with God’s Word (and maybe some comfortable shoes), we can deal with anything because when God’s Spirit covers our feet, His love will be our safeguard during those times of disappointment as promised in Psalm 3:3: “But You, O Lord, are a shield for me, my glory and the One who lifts up my head” (NKJV). Have a joyful and meaningful 2017! Disclaimer All of the content in the GoodNews Christian Magazine is for general information and/or use. Such contents does not constitute advice and should not be relied upon in making (or refraining from making) a decision. Any specific advice or replies to queries in any part of the magazine is the personal opinion of such experts/consultants/persons and is not subscribed to by GoodNews Christian Magazine. The information in GoodNews Christian Magazine is provided on an “AS IS” basis, and all warranties, expressed or implied of any kind, regarding any matter pertaining to any information, advice or replies are disclaimed and excluded. We reserve the right to refuse any advertisement or article we deem inappropriate.

Contents 12

GoodNews from the Pastor’s Desk

6 “Thanks Be to God” by Julius McCarter

GoodNews for Kids

2017 Reading Challenge by Kristy Adams

GoodNews on Money Matters

10 “Make a Will, Insure a Way” by Andrew Lee

GoodNews for Men

12 “Guys, Are We Chasing the Right Dreams?” by Mark Klepper

GoodNews for Women

14 Your 2017 New Year’s Resolution: “I AM ENOUGH!” by Alicia Klepper GoodNews for Parents

20 Pray God’s Promises Over Your Offspring! by Mike Shreve GoodNews for Life

22 Celebrate the Sanctity of Life by Delaney Walker

GoodNews for Health & Fitness

24 Just Desker-cise! by Hannah Davis GoodNews for Teens

26 A New Year Does Not Mean A New Beginning by Caleb Prytherch GoodNews Cover Story

GoodNews for Everyone

40 What Will Your Resolution Be? by Dr. Greg Collins GoodNews for your Taste Buds

42 Fajita Chicken Casserole by Angie Parris GoodNews from the Physician’s Desk

28 Grissom-Serenity Funeral 44 Understanding Pain Series Home and Services by Chari Buckner GoodNews for Everyone

30 The God Appointment

by Dr. James Marcum GoodNews for Everyone

46 “I Am Hungry for God . . . ” Really?

by Terrie Ruff

by Don Smith

GoodNews for Couples

GoodNews for Everyone

32 Maybe Bono Had It Wrong 50 Spiritual New Year’s by David Gray Resolution

GoodNews for Seniors

34 “New Year’s Resolutions of Ninety-Year-Olds” by Esmerelda Lee

GoodNews for Everyone

By Jennifer Govea GoodNews for Everyone

52 Pray for Our Leaders by Kelly McDonald Jr. GoodNews from the Outdoors

36 The Encounter of a Lifetime 54 A Moment to Remember by Glenda Prichard by Rusty Asble

GoodNews for Everyone

38 OVERCOMING ANXIETY by Destiny Hope Shreve

Gò0dNews from the Pastor’s Desk

“Thanks Be to God”

The good news to us pastors is that the resources for our watchfulness are as near as the resources we offer our brothers and sisters week in and week out: prayer, communal accountability, and responsibility. by Julius McCarter

ome years ago I was sitting with a candidate for

pride, foolishness. All these evil things come from within, and

ordained ministry. A newly minted seminary gradu-

they defile a person” (Mark 7.20-23 ESV).

ate, he was prepared for a theological dispute with me

When temptations come, they find a natural ally in me. In

of one variety or another—an interview that was meant to

other words, my sin problem isn’t simply a surface anomaly

demonstrate to me whether he was intellectually prepared

that can be removed with laser precision but a metastasized

for ministry. As the interviewer and counsel to the ordaining

melanoma that will require long and intensive treatment to

body, I had other plans.

avoid a deadly result. We pastors often forget this.

As we sat down, I opened my Bible and began to read:

I tell young ordinands that there are three sins that will

“Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God

always take down a pastor—those sins related to money, sex,

so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your

and power. It’s always easy for pastors to be susceptible to that

anxieties on him, because he cares for you. Be sober-minded;

old lie of our pride “It won’t happen to me.” So Peter begins

be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a

by encouraging us to remain humble by keeping our feet

roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Resist him, firm in

planted on the earth so as to follow Jesus in our lives.

your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being

What pastors need most is to remind themselves daily

experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world. And

of the good news: “Follow me,” Jesus says. That is often into

after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace,

places of pain and brokenness—and sometimes, into the heart

who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself

of our own pain and brokenness. So we must remain on guard:

restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you. To him be the

“Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil

dominion forever and ever. Amen” (1 Pet. 5:6-11 ESV).

prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour”

I knew that time and again, temptation and culture aim to undermine pastors. So I intend, when I first sit with candidates

(1 Pet. 5:8 ESV) We aren’t in this alone, and the pastor who attempts to

for ministry, to inquire about the state of their soul and how

go it alone will inevitably stumble. Those resources have been

they prepare to handle those temptations and pressures. Be-

given to us in our baptism, in the body and blood of Christ,

cause, make no doubt about it, temptation for pastors happens

in the forgiveness of our sins through confession. As a pastor,

in spades. We’ve seen how both the devil and the world target

you deliver these gifts to your people in the Word of God, but

pastors and their families. If they can take a pastor down,

you need the gifts too. No one, including you, can live without

they can often take others down with him. What is more, we

them. The greatest help in temptation is our Lord’s promise:

pastors, like everyone else, have beating in our own chests a

“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our

heart full of sin, that is “deceitful above all things, and desper-

sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1.9

ately sick; who can understand it?” (Jere. 17:9 ESV). Why so

ESV). You are loved in Christ, washed clean in Christ’s blood.

negative today? Jesus explains: “What comes out of a person is what defiles him. For from within, out of the heart of man, come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, coveting, wickedness, deceit, sensuality, envy, slander,

6 // January 2017

That is the Good News. Thanks be to God. 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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GĂ˛0dNews for Kids

2017 Reading Challenge Make time to develop a love of reading as a family.

by Kristy Adams

ost of us know how important reading is and its long-term value to our childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s success in school and in life. But on the list of priorities families face each day, reading together sometimes falls to the bottom. No matter how old children become, your involvement in their reading can allow your child to become a lifelong reader. As parents, when we take time out from our hectic schedules to give our children quality, undivided attention, this resonates with them, showing them they are important to us. Reading for and with children, therefore, gives parents the opportunity to establish a strong and nurturing bond. This time spent together also fosters one-on-one communication between parent and child. Starting this tradition early will allow children to understand that reading does not have to be a stressful subject in school, but rather a bonding time filled with mystery, laughter, suspense, and quality time with loved ones. As an educator, I find all too often that the majority of my students fear, or rather, loathe reading. The thought of a possible book study, report, or reading

8 // January 2017

assignment sends them into a tailspin. The challenge then for me is to take these precious students and introduce them to reading at a whole new level. To show them that a book does not have to be something to stress over, but rather something to look forward to and enjoy. The struggle to teach them this late in their academic career that reading can actually be for pleasure and not just for a grade is next to impossible. If these students developed a love for reading at an early age, by being read to, by family reading time, by understanding that reading books can be a pleasurable, relaxing experience, I truly believe that more and more students would not struggle with finding joy in reading during their school years. I challenge you to start a new tradition with your family. With the new year, challenges and goals are often set for adults, so why not use this strategy to start a 52-week reading challenge at home with your children? Pinterest is filled with fun reading challenges that are completely age appropriate for everyone in your home. I was shocked at the plethora of lists to choose a print for 52-week family reading challenges. For 2017, I challenge you to read one book each week aloud with your family. Do not make this about school! This is not a homework assignment, nor is it to determine if your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s reading level is on track. This is a time to develop a love of reading as a family. Show your child that reading does not have to be stressful, or even scary. Build this time into your schedule so that it is done when you are most relaxed and can truly enjoy the book that you have picked out together. A love of reading is such an important gift that we can give to our kids. I challenge you for 2017 to develop a love of reading in your home. Kristy Adams Centers for Creative Learning Owner Educational Therapist Dyslexia Specialist

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“Make a Will, Insure a Way” 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.

recent survey by the website Legal Zoom reveals

Will because they have a weird superstition that doing so

that over half of all Americans have no Last

somehow hastens their death. That’s just silliness. Others

Will and Testament in place. Why not? The one

don’t make a will because they think they don’t possess

certainty in this life is that someday (should the Lord tarry)

much of a legacy to leave to family and friends. But most

we will all die. Having a written and signed Will in place

would be surprised, if they did a serious self-inventory,

helps to ensure that your possessions (both financial assets

at just how much they actually possess that might have

as well as personal items such as collections, furniture,

sentimental or economic value for their loved ones. Finally,

artwork, china pattern, etc.) will be left to specific people.

many people believe that making a Will is too expensive.

Furthermore, having a Will can help guard against

But today there are many low-cost legal documents and

unpleasant estate battles in probate court where a total

software programs that can be purchased online and are

stranger (the Judge) will decide who gets what bequest

specially written to accommodate the laws of your specific

from your estate. It would be better to make that decision

state of residence.

for yourself while still alive by writing a Will, wouldn’t it?

Just as important as having a Will is having an

1 Timothy 5:8 reads, “But if anyone does not provide for

adequate amount of term life insurance. My readers

his relatives, and especially for members of his household,

know that I’m an advocate of Dave Ramsey and his

he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.”

financial principles, so I recommend having the proper

Part of providing for family includes providing a peaceful

amount of term life insurance rather than whole life,

path for spouses, children, and grandchildren to receive

universal life, variable life. Term life offers much

their allotted portion of the deceased’s estate without

more insurance at a much less expensive premium

undue bickering or confusion. Having a written Will

cost. Ten to twelve times your annual income is the

doesn’t guarantee that family members will never squabble

recommended amount of term life insurance to buy,

about what each of them received after your death. After

so if you earn $40,000 annually, you should purchase

all, we live in a fallen world with imperfect people. But

between $400,000-500,000 worth of term life insurance.

it does clarify the intentions and wishes of the deceased,

Don’t leave your loved ones unprotected. I’ve personally

and this goes a long way toward helping to keep the peace

known fathers of young children who died with no life

among the surviving family. Some people don’t make a

insurance, and the results were financially disastrous for

10 // January 2017

their families. Make a Will, and insure yourself.

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Gò0dNews for Men

“Guys, Are We Chasing the Right Dreams?” “No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us.” —Philippians 3:13-14 NLT

by Mark Klepper n Paul’s letter to the Philippians, he is encouraging the

Our intentions are often noble: to do well, succeed,

believer to persevere in the journey with Christ, always

provide for our families, or build a legacy. Again, it’s not

keeping the focus on the heavenly prize of eternal life.

always in what we do, but in how we go about doing them.

However, along the way to the finish line, we can lose

Too often the pressure of obtaining the prizes of earth have

sight of the eternal and place our focus on the temporary.

left us relying on ourselves. We are chasing our dreams

Paul’s motivation for men to press on with God and

by chasing our own abilities, apart from God. Matthew

receive the heavenly prize has been distorted into us

6:33 instructs us to, “Seek the Kingdom of God above all

chasing down earthly rewards, an effective tactic of the

else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything

Enemy. Satan is fine with the perseverance God has given

you need” (NLT). God has given us a dream, a passion,

man, as long as man doesn’t use it to acquire the things

a calling, and in our excitement to succeed in it, we have

of God. He’d rather we pursue temporal treasures—

made it our idol. We stopped walking with God’s presence

whatever satisfies the here and now of what we can see

and started pounding on the door of opportunity, all in the

and touch.

name of God-given passion pursuits.

The earthly blessings given from the hand of God

The wonderful news is that if the world has twisted

that are here today and gone tomorrow, do not snare the

our desires into pursuing the wrong dreams, or we are

hearts of men unless we make them the objects of our

chasing the calling instead of the Caller, Romans 12:2

affection. The trap is not always in what we have, but in

welcomes us, invites us, urges us, to receive a renewing of

how we pursue those things of success, prosperity, skill,

our minds. “Do not conform to the pattern of this world,

gifting, opportunity, desires, blessings, a life abundant is

but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then

the desire of God for His children (see John 10:10). God is

you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—

the Giver of all good things (see Matt. 7:11). We must ask

his good, pleasing and perfect will” (Rom. 12:2 NIV).

ourselves: “Are we seeking His heart or His hand?” Is the object of our affection to know God more or to have more of what God can give us? Do we want the Blesser or the just the blessing?

12 // January 2017

Mark Klepper and his wife Alicia have been married for 15 years. They have 3 children and are active members at Peerless Road Church of God of Prophecy.

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Gò0dNews for Women Your 2017 New Year’s Resolution: “I AM ENOUGH!” Suggested reading: Psalm 139

by Alicia Klepper ere we go again . . . a new year. Nothing

beginning (Isa. 46:10). He foresaw you overworking.

seems to come more quickly than that

He already knew about your impatience. He created

midnight countdown to a fresh year. After

your body that you condemn. He knows how old you

a filling holiday season of not-enough and way-too-

are, and how old you feel. Those gray hairs you dye,

much, we barely take a breath before ringing in a

He has them all counted. God sees that you really

brand new 365 days that ushers in all of its promises

want to do everything that is right, but instead you

and pressures. And just as we slap up that shiny new

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every thought (see Ps. 139:2).

less; lose more. Age less; moisturize more. Take less;

Before there was ever any earthly evidence of

give more. Yell less; hug more. Isolate less; socialize

you, He knew everything you would ever do and

more. Busy less; rest more. Talk less; listen more. Sit

not do. He knew about both your fulfilled and

less; run more. Offend less; love more. Bicker less;

unfulfilled potential. He knew every moment of

agree more. Complain less; thank more. Fear less;

obedience and every moment of disobedience. He

pray more.

was already aware of every mess He would rescue

Lesses and mores; mores and lesses. Each goal is a worthy endeavor, but when is it enough?

you from, every sin He would wash you clean of. He saw every hurt you would cause, and every

Daughters of God, when will we just be enough,

hurt that would come your way. He already

as we are? When will we look in the mirror

heard the cries and questions you would

and instead of pointing out all of things we

direct toward Him (see Psa. 139:16). And

don’t do and the things we do too much of;

even with all of this knowledge of your

say, “Girl, you are enough!”? Let’s

flaws and imperfections, your sins, and

make this the year of “I AM

shortcomings, He saw it good that

ENOUGH!” You know why

you should be created. God knew

you are enough? Because

you then. God knows you now.

your Creator says so: “For

And God says, “Through Christ

we are God’s masterpiece.

Jesus, you are enough!”

He has created us anew in

“For God made Christ, who

Christ Jesus, so that we can

never sinned, to be the offering

do the things He planned for us long ago”

for our sin, so that we could be

(Eph. 2:10 NLT). A perfect, original, artistic, creating

made right with God through Christ” (2 Cor. 5:21 ESV).

God created you. He knew you before you were conceived (see Jer. 1:5). He knitted you together in the womb (see Ps. 139:13). He sees the end from the

14 // January 2017

Alicia Klepper and her husband Mark have been married for 15 years. They have 3 children and are active members at Peerless Road Church of God of Prophecy.

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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 // January 2017

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 Lukeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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 Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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

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 New Zion Baptist 393 County Rd 616 Athens, TN 37303 423-263-9841 North Athens Baptist

18 // January 2017

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

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Gò0dNews for Parents PRAY GOD’S PROMISES OVER YOUR OFFSPRING!

Thank God in advance for fulfilling the pledges He’s already made. by Mike Shreve

arenting can be very challenging. Many influences are competing to control the hearts and minds of our offspring. There are a number of ways to combat these negatives, but one of the most effective means is prayer. Too many parents pray the problems. They rehearse before God all the upsetting things their children are doing or facing—and all too often they pray with fearful, distressed, or discouraged attitudes of heart. Could they inadvertently be reinforcing the very things they seek to overcome? How much more powerful it is to enter God’s presence reminding Him of the commitments He has already made in His Word concerning our sons and daughters. There are 7,487 promises in the Bible. Sixty-five of them directly relate to the children of those who are in covenant with God. Here are eight of my favorites: DIVINE INSTRUCTION—All your children shall be taught by the Lord, and great shall be the peace of your children (Isa. 54:13 NKJV). DELIVERANCE—Though hand join in hand, the wicked shall not be unpunished: but the seed of the righteous shall be delivered (Pro. 11:21 KJV). SALVATION—I will contend with him who contends with you; and I will save your children (Isa. 49:25 NKJV). GOD’S SPIRIT AND BLESSING POURED OUT— For I will pour water on him who is thirsty, and floods on the dry ground; I will pour My Spirit on your descendants, and My blessing on your offspring (Isa. 44:3 NKJV) COVENANT AND MERCY—Therefore know that the Lord your God, He is God, the faithful God who keeps covenant and mercy for a thousand generations with those who love Him

20 // January 2017

and keep His commandments (Deut. 7:9 NKJV) AWAKENED LOVE FOR GOD—And the LORD your God will circumcise your heart and the heart of your descendants, to love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul, that you may live (Deut. 30:6 NKJV) THE LEGACY OF THE WORD—"As for Me," says the Lord, "this is My covenant with them: My Spirit who is upon you, and My words which I have put in your mouth, shall not depart from your mouth, nor from the mouth of your descendants, nor from the mouth of your descendants' descendants," says the Lord, "from this time and forevermore" (Isa. 59:21 NKJV) ETERNAL LIFE— “For as the new heavens and the new earth which I will make shall remain before Me," says the Lord, "So shall your descendants and your name remain” (Isaiah 66:22 NKJV). No parent can force a child to love and serve God. But God intends to be involved in the process supernaturally. One touch of His Spirit is far more effective than hours of pleading and counseling from a distraught parent. So purpose now to partner with the Creator in this high calling of parenthood. Don’t beg Him to move for your child anymore. Instead, thank Him in advance for fulfilling the pledges He’s already made. In fact, exuberantly praise Him as if these things are a “done deal.” That’s faith—and faith pleases God. What a great way to intercede every day of 2017! Get ready for miracles to happen!

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 Life Celebrate the Sanctity of Life

“Only human beings were expressly created as God’s image bearers, and this absolute conviction must be upheld by a society or it risks moral decay.” —Mark Camper

by Delaney Walker

ince 1973, over 57 million American lives have been lost to abortion. Depending on your stance, this statistic could bring about any number of

Abortion will no longer be a viable option when the truth and value of unborn life is recognized and accepted. Over the last 44 years, abortion has not only taken

reactions: exasperation, frustration, horror, disgust,

the lives of more than 57 million unborn babies, it has

sorrow, indifference, or acceptance. At New Hope, the

affected millions of American lives. Abortion has been

number of lives lost saddens us as much as it pushes us

touted as a simple fix to a complex problem. In our haste

to reach out to those in need.

to hide our indiscretions, we did not notice its toxic

Once we move past the surface questions of how

impact on our personal beliefs, our families, and our

and why, the one question that continually resounds

nation’s morale code. We cannot take back the lives lost,

is simple and to the point: What would have made the

but we can lead a shift in our country’s mind-set.

difference in each one of those situations? The knee-jerk reaction is to point fingers at everyone

At New Hope, we empower those affected by unplanned pregnancy to make life-affirming decisions

involved in an abortion: the mother, the father,

by providing help, hope, and accurate information. We

unsupportive relatives, the church, the government, the

do this because we recognize the sanctity of human

clinics, and cultural pressures. However, none of those

life, which goes beyond the unborn baby at risk. Every

factors can support the weight of more than 57 million

boy, girl, man, and woman who walks through our

lives. Instead, we all bear the burden of this statistic; we

doors reflects the image of our Creator. This means they

all bear witness to the blight upon our nation.

are worthy of our love, our help, and our respect. The

Contrary to popular belief, the answer does not lie in finding a way to outlaw abortion—although, that

numbers seem insurmountable, but together we can make a difference.

is a byproduct of the real solution. As beings

Join us Saturday, January 15 at Living

made in the image of God, we need to

Word Church for our annual Celebration

remember the sanctity of human life. This belief must permeate into

of Life. The short program will begin promptly at 5 p.m. and end with a candle lighting and prayer.

every aspect of our world: personal, professional, and societal.

22 // January 2017

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 Just Desker-cise!

You can sneak in a workout while working at your desk. by Hannah Davis

ou’ve got a long day of work ahead with no time to hit the gym? I’ve got you covered. I’m here to eliminate the

4. Booty Stretch

excuses with a little thing called desk-ercise! Desk-ercise is

opposite thigh, and actively try to push

a way to strengthen dormant muscles and stretch muscles that get

your right knee toward the floor until you

tight throughout your day—and you’ll be able to do it all right at

feel a stretch through your right hip. Too

your desk! Humans are simply not meant to sit for long periods of

much sitting is a major culprit of tight hips

time. Too much sitting leads to weight gain and wrecks your body when you don’t work to reverse the negative patterns that sitting creates. Here are a few creative and inconspicuous ways to get moving and stretch throughout your day so that sitting doesn’t get

Place your right ankle on your

that lead to dysfunctional hip patterns and low back pain. This stretch can be held for as long as two minutes per side to release the tightness!

Twist Gò0dNews for Health &5. Seated Fitness

the best of your day. And don’t be shy. Desk-ercise is the new rage! Begin with good posture. It’s actually work to keep your

This is a great way to relieve tight back muscles and open up your chest

shoulders from slouching and your core engaged. It’s a little

and shoulders! Simply place one arm on Tips for Achieving Your Fitness Goals the opposite side of your chair allowing

known fact: better posture automatically makes you look slimmer!

1. Air Squat Hold

by Hannah Davis

Rise just slightly out of your office

Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are squat forwere 30bought seconds a time not yourposition own, for you with at a price. So glorify God in your body. 6: 19isometric 20 (ESV) every hour on—1 theCorinthians hour. This

chair; squeeze your glutes and hold that

exercise will get those dormant glutes and t’s March, and if you made New Year’s health/

hamstrings fired up. fitness resolutions, now is when you might be getting

2. Chair Dips

frustrated and contemplate giving up. You may think it’s been too hard or that you have already failed. There is good reason why youChair shoulddips not give You are areup. a great worth it to your Maker and those around you. The upper-body toner, but be following tips will help you get over the hump of selfyou have a year. stable chair doubt and achievesure lasting results this

thisgoal one. Place your Be specific.for If your is weight loss, I

1. encourage you to hands attach a on reasonable timeline. For the edge of your

example, if your end goal is to lose 50 chair, bent at the knees pounds by August, your weekly and dip down. Keep your the goalback couldas beclose to loseto one to chair two as possible pounds each week. These

breaths; then switch.

the road to treat major health issues like heart disease and diabetes. Your health should be a priority because your family needs you.

6. Toe Touch

5. Focus on today. Finally, be encouraged by per leg.

achieving small daily goals. Take the stairs instead of

7. Quad/Hip Flexor theStanding elevator. Park away from a store’s entrance.Stretch Eat a

healthy dinner. Go for a walk. Over time, these small While you’re waiting at the water feats add up and have a huge impact! fountain or on the phone, stand up and Remember, it’s a marathon, not a knock this stretch out to counterbalance sprint. Trust the process! Improving your health is a sitting! daily journey. all day The quads and hip flexors Focus on physiological become super tight from sitting and even improvements that can happen with just one workout and wearing heels, which tend to place us in an

smaller increments are

seconds of rest betweenrealistic each round, do one round periodically and will or encourage you to stay on track. 2. Have a plan.

3. Lunge and Respond (to emails) Schedule your workouts

Lunge and meal planand just respond like you helps me when do other appointments. helps to chair out of the replying to emails. ItGet the go to the gym or workout at home way lunge forward your desk withand a written plan. If you’re atomember of a but

gym,the ask back the desk if one Get of their best trainers keep legstaff straight. as low as you can show you how to use the equipment properly.

can and hold while you respond to an email.

3. Prioritize. I hear the excuse that “I just don’t have the time or money to get healthier and more fit.”

Then, repeat on the other leg while you

respond to another email. Keeping thenot back leg straight healthcare will provide You can’t afford to! Out-of-pocket costs continue to rise. can either spend less money a stretch for your hip flexors which areYou commonly overly tight in on

a gym membership, a personal trainer, and healthier

people who sit a lot. Do this periodically throughout the day. foods now, or you can spend even more money down

24 // January 2017 24 // March 2016

Sitting on the edge of your seat, extend

4. Be accountable. The importance of having your leg out with your toes pointed to the someone to report to is priceless. Create a reward system together. For example, if you and lose 8try pounds by your toes. Try your ceiling to grab the end of the month, you get a spa treatment, or you best not to round your back. This stretch treat yourself to a sporting event. Using a tracking app will do great at relieving a tight lower or fitness device like MyFitnessPal or a FitBit canjob be an excellent motivator. and calves. Hold the stretch for 30-90 seconds back, hamstrings,

throughout the movement. Try three rounds of 10-15 reps with 30 throughout the day.

yourself to twist. Hold for five slow deep

a week of healthier eating.

anterior pelvic tilt.

Reduced stress, better sleep, I promise theseand desk-ercises release more energywill will be quicklya cocktail of achieved. awesome hormones that will make you happier at work and get Good habits on a consistent

your creativebasis juices flowing! As long as you’ve got clothes on that will help you achieve a healthier you can move andForaren’t afraidtips, to get a little sweaty, you mind and in body. more fitness findjust me on

Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram@bodybyhannah. can also do pushups against the side of your desk, full squats, and

lunges periodically throughout the day to get moving and sneak in a workout. 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 A New Year Does Not Mean A New Beginning Let’s start something new today and see how our lives can be greatly transformed!

by Caleb Prytherch hen January 1 comes around, every person

Because we know that we can give our problems

is trying to figure out what kind of goals

over to Christ, knowing that He will take care of them,

or commitments to make for the upcoming

we do not have to wait for the new year to make a

year. Often times these goals may include a person

new commitment or to start fresh with something.

trying to lose weight, breaking a habit, starting a new

No matter what situation we have dealt with or are

one, and many more. It appears that individuals seem

currently dealing with, we can find peace in knowing

to think that they must change or do something new

that we can start fresh and new, right here, right now.

when the new year starts—almost as if there is not

God promises that He is always there for us, so why

another time when they can commit to something

don’t we just accept His unrelenting love for us? Let

new. Although I do understand the reasoning behind

us no longer be slaves to our sin, bound up in our past

starting something new at the beginning of a new year,

mistakes, but let us be changed and free, letting the

I believe we often lose sight of the fact that we can start

peace of God fill our hearts. Don’t wait for a new year

something new at any time of the year, any time of the

to get a new, fresh start, but rather, start today and let

day, or whenever it is needed.

God take over your situation and begin your new life—

In our lives, it is a proven fact that we all make

living and walking in the fullness of Jesus Christ.

mistakes and mess up at times. We may have done something that we feel like no one could ever forgive us for, let alone the fact that we find it hard to even forgive ourselves. We carry around this weight of heaviness for so long that it eats us alive, causing us to not be able to see or feel any bit of hope for our lives. When we carry around this weight, it is not healthy for us, but there is hope! In Matthew 11:28-29, Jesus says, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your soul” (NLT). It is important that we take these words of Jesus and truly apply them to our lives. When we fail or mess up, we need to forgive others and ourselves and give our problems to Jesus. It is not healthy for us to carry our burdens alone, because we have a Savior who is willing to help us during our situations, and He promises that He will never leave us or forsake us (see Deut. 31:6).

26 // January 2017

Caleb Prytherch is a graphic designer and he designs GoodNews Christian Magazine. He is currently working on completing his Bachelor’s degree in pastoral ministry from Lee University. He is passionate about ministry and seeing others reach their full potential through Jesus Christ.

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Grissom-Serenity Funeral Home and Services Serving the needs of Cleveland and Bradley County for more than twenty-five years. by Chari Buckner

hile the world has changed a lot during this

been funeral directors, but in today’s culture, women have

time, most people believe that the way funerals

busted almost every glass ceiling. “So far, the feedback has

are conducted have remained stagnate. Today

been very positive. I believe we provide a more nurturing,

there are a lot of options now to celebrate the life of a

caring experience, and the families have really embraced the

beloved family member. Most traditional funeral homes

change,” stated Kristy.

continue to provide meaningful funerals, but clients now

Kristy has a genuine passion for her profession, and

are more particular that ever about wanting a personalized,

it shows in the care and compassion she gives to every

custom memorial service or funeral.

family that walks through the door. When asked about

Recent Changes

her customer-care philosophy, Kristy states, “One thing

Serenity over the past few months and these changes have

conference when meeting with a family is listening. That’s

There have been some recent changes at Grissom-

enhanced Grissom-Serenity’s commitment and ability to provide the best service possible. Kristy Potter is the new manager, and she is a licensed funeral director. She comes to Grissom-Serenity with more than twelve years of experience in the funeral industry. Also, Kim Humberd joined the firm last summer and is now an apprentice funeral director, which entails two years of on-the-job training and online classroom studies. When you meet Kristy and Kim, you immediately realize that these ladies are not the stereotypical, stuffy morticians commonly characterized in movies and television shows. First of all, women traditionally have not

28 // January 2017

I find that is very important in our initial arrangement critical. Though I like to have as much information about the deceased and his or her family beforehand, I do not lift my pen except to make notes during the first 10 to 20 minutes. I take this time to ask the family members about their loved one and absorb the stories and memories that are sure to follow.” She continues, “That is where I get the ideas for my suggestions to enhance the memorial service or funeral. It is vital to have ideas to help guide the family on what will truly personalize the service that we provide for them. When one doesn’t have something different to offer, one will not stand out in a line of similar.”

While new to the funeral industry, Kim adds, “I am so excited about the opportunity to become a funeral director with Grissom-Serenity Funeral Home. I have worked in the banking and insurance business for over twenty-five years in the area of client relations. This passion for helping others translates very well to helping families in their time of need. My mission is to make a difference for the families I serve. I want to provide families with the care and compassion they deserve and need, while planning their loved one’s service.”

Affordable and Flexible

Grissom-Serenity is gaining ground in the area’s

competitive funeral market by being affordable and flexible. Kristy explains, “When a client chooses us, it is usually because we have served their family in the past, or it is someone who is looking for an affordable alternative to some of the expensive funeral homes in Chattanooga. We get a lot of our business from outside Bradley County, and while we do not do much advertising, business continues to thrive. I believe the “word-of-mouth” element pays off. We have a great reputation and strive to continue giving the best service to the families we serve at a very affordable cost.

For example, one of the latest trends in home design, shiplap, is in our new caskets made from authentic and fabricated barn wood. Urns are now made from glass, metal, wood, polymer, or ceramic and come in a variety of shapes and sizes. 5. Pet Cremations. We are now assisting pet families through our affiliation with Faithful Friend Pet Crematory and Funeral Home in Cleveland. “We know that pets provide an important role in our lives, and we are now be able to help our families deal with the loss of a pet,” said Kim.

Lower cost does not have to mean lowered expectations and customer service.” Kristy states that there are some changing trends to watch in the funeral business: 1. Traditional funerals with receptions: Many families are choosing to celebrate the life of their loved ones with a dinner or reception outside of the funeral home after the service. Some people are not affiliated with a local church, so they are choosing to gather with family and friends at a restaurant, a hotel meeting facility, or formal reception hall instead of the funeral home. Grissom-Serenity can help facilitate this type of reception. 2. Cremations with viewing and full funerals: While the number of cremations is increasing, a lot of families still want to have a traditional viewing and funeral prior to the cremation to help with the healing and closure. 3. Memorial services at a later date: With the popularity of cremation comes a lot more flexibility in the timing of the memorial service. Families are choosing to wait until a family reunion, when children and grandchildren’s school schedule allows or on a specific date to have a service for the deceased. These services can be held at home, a meaningful place, or even a vacation spot. 4. Non-traditional urns and caskets: The type of material and designs for caskets and urns are changing.

“Many customers are bucking the cookie-cutter styled services and desiring more celebrations of their loved ones’ lives. Forward and open-minded thinking is what will drive the future of the industry. Of course, the other thing I want people to remember about their experience with us is that we treated their family like we would want our family treated,” explained Kristy. If you would like more information about preplanning or, if you have questions, please contact Grissom-Serenity Funeral Home and Cremation Services at 423-476-8575 or www.grissomfh.net.

issuu.com/goodnewscm // 29

Gò0dNews for Everyone Gò0dNews for Everyone

The God Appointment “And I will come home on the appointed day.” —Proverbs 7:20 NKJV by Terrie Ruff

pencer and I hurriedly made our way to a drawn to her and knew I had to get the books to her. local pottery store where he would choose a Spencer selected his pottery, and as he painted I kept piece of pottery and paint it. It was a surprise a watchful eye on the cashier. Then she disappeared I had planned for him since being introduced to behind a curtain that led to the workroom. I wondered the “pottery” world in weeks prior. While there, I how God would intervene, and I began to question met a friendly cashier. I especially remember her my actions, afraid that I might offend her I; didn’t comment about gift books I had given my friends. even know her name. Then she reappeared and began That’s when she shared with me her love of books! sweeping and ended up at our table. As she recognized We talked about reading books “old-style” versus me, I thanked her for her kindness during my first it was nottrends an enemy reproaches could bear it. . . told . Buther it was you, my companion the newer“For technological andwho agreed that we me; Then visitI to the store and I remembered her love ofand my acquaintance. We took sweet counsel together.” —Psalms 55:12-14 NKJV were both “old-school” books. Then I handed by Terrie Ruff savoring the experience her the gifts I was actually holding book, instructed to give. She t doesn’t matter if you were blind-sided or saw hit with grace and dignity. Out of trembling lips of highlighting key smiled and her eyes it coming in your direction, the hearted fire of an unconditional love, He asks His Father to forgive words/phrases andattack hurts. The words of the wounded seemed water as she inward them. What a beautiful Savior we to have! placing give a book marktointhe emotional hits that cause deep received gift. voice One day He’s coming back the and allThen of His place aspain, a reminder to she hugged me and inflicts blows that bind you and fire that children will be set free from the attack of the pick up burns whereyou. we left “Yoube have no Enemy, and in the end,said, we will victorious off. Our conversation what this means “It took my breath away, it was like someone because He will put to an idea end to friendly fires! Until ended, and I realized to me.” She left and punched me in the stomach, I can’t believe it; this then, we must look to Him for strength, courage, how at-home I feltI with came back and sat for He is unreal. don’t understand why, it hurts so bad. and hope as we face unthinkable challenges the friendly cashier. down at our table, and When will this ever end? I’m so tired; I am angry, is our example. While talked about God butdriving the outcome is in God’s hands. I pray for them, If you’ve been hit bywe friendly fire, consider I still love. I forgive.” These brave, honest words giving that hurt and pain to the Great home I thought of her. and life. She Extinguisher. thanked come from choked in the painful reality willobedient put out the painful fires in your life, heal What brought her tothroats the pottery store? Did she have a ofme forHe being to God’s impressions and survivors whoGod? are hit so constantly terribly byreminded friendly fire. you, andHe setwas younear. free from that Spencer heavy load. Before family? Did she know I was said she knew She gave a tour These blows and show respect ofwhen persons, and too often know it, thewe painful fog ofourselves your experience will of her love of books, I knew that I took of the you workroom and introduced and are a common, human experience. These blows are be lifted and the healing power of God’s sunshine Spencer to paint pottery, I would have gift books for exchanged contact information. incredibly painful because the one you love and shine brightly in your life. I know, because her! I didn’t even know her name, but God guided me I’llwill be going to the store Wednesday to pick up my trust and least expect has attacked as an eyespainted are filled with sunshine now!Stephanie’s Choose to love, to the specific books that would minister to you her on thisenemy Spencer’s pottery. As I prepare would. But cheer up, my brother and my sister. forgive, pray, and experience freedom phase of her journey, and I felt at home using my gift next surprise, I do so with confidence knowingand thatjoy I as Jesus understands the hit and sting of friendly fire. soar above fire andplanned allow the healing waters of encouragement for my unknown sister. will beyou fulfilling God’sthe divinely appointment. does because He, too, was hit of Jesus’ loveastoI prepare heal you.toOh He’s the “Great I pickedJesus Spencer upunderstand yesterday and we finally made My prayer is that go yes, home to live with by those He loved and trusted from careless sleep of Extinguisher” and He has the last word, and trust it to the much-awaited pottery store. Spencer was Him eternally, Stephanie will be there too! His companions He so desperately needed, to Judas me, He will put out the friendly fires of our lives ecstatic! As we made our way toward the entrance, I Does God have an appointment with you today? who offered a kiss of betrayal, to Peter’s curses of forever. Hallelujah! Amen! quickly tucked the gift books in my purse and began Don’t miss it! denial, to Golgotha, where those He came to save looking for the friendly cashier. And there she was, but crucified Him. Yet, He showed us how to accept the Terrie TerrieRuff Ruffisisoriginally originally from from South Carolina she didn’t look as happy as I remembered. Still I was but has been in Tennessee for approximately Carolina but has been in Tennessee for

Friendly Fire

30 // January 2017 40 // July 2016

23 years. She is23a Licensed Level Social approximately years. SheMaster is a Licensed Worker (LMSW). You can email her Master Level Social Worker (LMSW). You at Terrieruff@yahoo.com. can email her at Terrieruff@yahoo.com.

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GĂ˛0dNews Christian Magazine

Gò0dNews for Couples

Maybe Bono Had It Wrong

Contrary to U2’s famous song, I think you will find exactly what you’re looking for.

by David Gray

he tendency to search for or interpret information in a way that confirms one's preconceptions is known in Psychology as confirmation bias. It is the type of selective thinking whereby one tends to notice and look for what confirms one's beliefs, while simultaneously ignoring or undervaluing the relevance of what contradicts one's beliefs. We like to imagine that our beliefs are rational, logical, and objective. But they are often based on paying attention only to the information that upholds our ideas, while ignoring the information that challenges them. We read about, hear, and see data and facts about any given topic but come to different conclusions because of our own preconceived ideas. We see this playing itself out all the time in various political, theological, and cultural arenas. The truth is that confirmation bias even manifests itself within the minutia of our everyday relationships. One of the biggest challenges in many marriages is that we are often looking through bad lenses. Much like a cheap pair of sunglasses causes us to see the whole world through a warped tint, the lenses we wear, the perceptions we have skew and distort truth. If your perception is that your mate is uncaring or selfish, then everything he or she says and does will be filtered through that lens. Suddenly your perceptions will be reinforced by what you see—the dirty socks left on the floor in the room you just cleaned becomes “She doesn’t care about me!” when filtered through your lens. Soon it seems that everything your spouse does confirms

32 // January 2017

your previously held beliefs. So even though your spouse took out the trash, cleaned your car, and mowed the lawn, it’s the dirty socks that stand out and confirm your beliefs. If you’re not careful, you can become fixated on this bad perception, and it can completely destroy your relationship. Maybe Jesus meant something like this when He said, "The lamp of the body is the eye. Therefore, when your eye is good, you are full of light. But when your eye is bad, your body also is full of darkness” (Luke 11:34 NKJV). The good news is your perspective can change. Instead of cheap sunglasses, we need to ask the Holy Spirit to give us corrective lenses. Jesus declared, “The Spirit of the Lord . . . has chosen me to bring . . . recovery of sight to the blind” (Luke 4:18 NRSV). We are often blinded to the truth. Sometimes it’s as simple as choosing to see the good. Most of the time, it’s right there in front of us; we just haven’t seen it. In 2017 I challenge you to a treasure hunt. I challenge you to try to catch your spouse doing something good every day. Make a note of it. Look for the times when he or she is helpful, caring, or selfsacrificing. I’m convinced that when you intentionally try to see the good in your mate, you will find it. And many times your relationship will almost improve instantaneously without your mate changing a thing, because now it is the negative things that have taken a back seat. Happy hunting!

David Gray was co-founder of "MarriageWorks of Cleveland." His passions include strengthening and encouraging healthy marriages and leadership development. David and Kendra have been married for 29 years. For more info go to graymatterstoday.com

Gò0dNews for Seniors Gò0dNews for Seniors

Strong “New Year’sSeventy ResolutionsYears of Ninety-Year-Olds”

Staying involved with their church, their work in the community, by Esmerelda Lee and their family has kept this couple’s love strong!

new year has begun, and while many have

by Esmerelda Lee

health. She has few visitors, and understands that her

enjoy an inspiring old love stories. Favorites children like adhere to a strong work ethic. Mitchell attributes his are busy and have their own lives. When she written their new year’s resolution and made An Affair to Remember, Love is a Many Splendid sons’ successes to their mother. He did say that he is fortunate to have their company, she enjoys every their lists of goals, I wondered what seniors Thing, and others move me more than some and Betty believed in giving their children “some moment. Whenlickings,” I asked Ruby she is not lonely, she in our community have on their minds. This is what of the modern-day love stories on the Hallmark good thatwhy helped too. replied, “Girl,In I spent my where entire life people, I learned.Channel. There is something to be said about the a world so giving many to people focus on their puritylist andisinnocence of the courtship andI lovenow, it’s my own happiness life-altering decisions time for Jesus and and make me. I am never lonely; “My bucket empty. I have been everywhere depicted through old movies. I am also honored to based on these motives, I asked Betty and He is always with me. We have the best conversations Mitchell wanted to go. I am happy to stay put in my retirement see these love stories played out in real life through if they were happy throughout the sixty-nine years and sometimes, girl, He cracks me up!” Thirty minutes community surrounded by caring friends.” older adults. Couples that fell in love and stayed of marriage. “We always worked it out, and if we with Ruby was too short for my visit. I loved being with At ninety-four years of age, Jack, a retired in love through a world war, the Depression, life didn’t laugh at each other, we found someone or lovedto Ruby’s of contentment. businessman, travelled the world his petite challenges, raising and with burying lovedwife. ones areher. I especially something laughspirit about. You’ll have problems in “I ammarriage, just grateful be alive.” He remembers what a spitfire shelife. used to be. He couples that loved for buttowho doesn’t? You just have to talk it Betty Mitchell aremy a local Cleveland Lou fought out,” Mitch replied. through World War II and Korea. He chuckled, “That ole and gal gave me a Lyle run for money.” coupleof that in the first grade at When asked if they ever fought, loves to dance. This year he will turn Ione hundred When reminded his met having a bucket list, Jack Arnold Memorial School. For Mitchell it they looked puzzled. “Who doesn’t years old, and even though it’s difficult to dance with a remembers having a long list of goals. “It was long,” was love at first sight. Betty believes that fight? We are both so different, and walker, you can still see his shining black-tipped shoes he said. But he sat with me, he peered into theasgrinning first-grader grew onmy hereyes we like different things. When we gliding, as if his feet remember every of the and smirked, it was too long, ‘cuz for the over“Maybe, time. According to Mitchell, they fought, themovement one with the strongest two step. I asked my friend, “What is the secret also to long, life of me were I can’t“sweet” remember we sat onone.” eachAs other buttogether, did not case won.” Mitchell added, get serious until after Worldman. WarWhen II. he “We compromised, but Betty healthy living?” and Lou replied, “I just keep moving to made I looked over at this tall, distinguished Mitchell enlisted in the Navy in 1943 the most compromises. I am still the beat of the music.” talked about his beloved wife, I could tell by and stayed out to sea for most of that surprised that she chose me.”In This year, I have decided to learn from those the manner in which his face lit up that time. He remembers a year and half Betty’s much softer voice, she said, around me, to make lists and have dreams; to fight about, he remembered the way she made him going by before his feet even touched “If there is something however, I will be careful to forgive myself if I saving.” feel, but he could not remember his dry land. But each week when mail there is something worth delivered to his aircraft carrier, August 22, 2016, forget them. I will hold On on the moments I am Betty and bucket listwas or goals. Betty’s unrelenting letters and her faith Mitchell Lyle will celebrate blessed to have with the ones I love, however their “The best part of growing that henowould return home kept their love strong. fleeting seventieth wedding feel. anniversary. Today, these they sometimes older, is having expectations. When Mitchell and Betty were finally reunited lifelong Cleveland residents live at Garden Plaza at This year, I will expect less and give more. I expect nothing from people, after the war, they dated for eight short months Cleveland Senior Living. Their apartment has little I will continue and they don’t expect see me. before they to were married. After graduating college, awardsMost theyimportantly, won from serving in their vocations to have conversations with my And as forBetty my reward, I am too became a school teacher with Cleveland City and in their community, war-torn photographs Schools, and Mitchell of family members, and beside is a Heavenly Father,each and recliner rely old to have a colonoscopy, nor went to work for the railroad. Later he became one of the members of our City tattered and worn Bible. on His leading and even a mammogram or go visit a Council. They still laugh at each other and with each His comic relief. By gynecologist ever again.” When asked what was the secret to loving other. There are also days where the laughter and God’s grace, we will Ruby, will be ninetyeach other through sixty-nine years of marriage, the talking are silent. On those days, Fox News all continue seven nextthey week. She both stated, “Stay busy so you don’t get into anchors are the only voices heard to in keep the apartment. moving gracefully, lives in thetrouble!” Cleveland Betty and Mitchell were married at First Mitchell said it best, “What she forgets, I can Baptist Church in 1946, and were always involved in remember. When shedancing laughs,to I am the happy, music and even community and has their church, work, and family. They had two sons. though there were days she didn’t like me, she of life. been blessed with good Both Tony and David were strong boys, raised by always loved me.” a strong, no-nonsense working mother. Betty was Esmerelda loving, but she always made it clear that her sons EsmereldaLee Leeisiscampus campusmanager manager for Garden for Garden Plaza of an Plaza of Cleveland,Cleveland, an independent and assisted would love education like she did, and they would

34 // January 2017 2016 34 // March

independent facility living facilityand forassisted seniors.living She and her husband for seniors. She and her husband Andrew have three children. Andrew have three children.

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

The Encounter of a Lifetime A renewed vision to tell the story of Noah and the Ark as a story of Noah’s faithfulness, his love for God, and his desire to find favor in the eyes of God.

by Glenda Prichard

ecently, I visited the “Ark Encounter” with my husband, my mom, and my aunt. I cannot begin to tell you all I saw and felt that day. It was a life-changing event, and as I reflect back on this experience, I find it a wonderful way to begin a new year. As we look at this true story found in Genesis 6:9-9;17, we find that Noah was called a righteous man, blameless in his generation. Wouldn’t it be great to hear those words describe your life? It also tells us Noah found favor in God’s sight! To be found blameless conveys the idea of being without evident fault, though not necessarily sinless. I believe Noah was a man who daily sought God’s guidance, forgiveness, and strength. He found favor in the eyes of the Lord. Favor is another word for God’s grace. As I toured the Ark, I felt so many emotions. I felt conviction! I wanted that relationship that Noah had with God. I wanted my life to be a life that was found blameless. As I repented, my heart then begin to worship right there in the middle of the Ark! As I continued this time with God, my heart begin to feel compassion for all the people in the world who do not know my Savior. Noah began telling his generation about God, and he passed the torch to those after him. That includes me. As you continue your journey on the Ark, you find yourself touring counties and learning about people, like you and me, who carried the torch and proclaimed the Good News to those who did not know it. When you complete this journey, you are challenged to be the next person to take this message to your generation. I left the Ark with a renewed desire to share this message of God’s redemptive love with children and their parents—a desire and compassion I

36 // January 2017

hadn’t felt before. I want to pass this story on to the children I minister to each week. I don’t want to give them a watereddown version that makes Noah more of a character than a real, godly man. He walked on this earth and is a relative to all of us! Included with all the animals, the rain, and the rainbow, there is so much more. I will no longer tell this story in such a way that makes it like a fairy tale for the children in my ministry. I want them to see it the way I saw it that day on the Ark. I want to share this redemptive story in a way that tells of Noah’s faithfulness, his love for God, and his desire to find favor in the eyes of God. This is a story that tells the salvation story. It is a story that gives us hope, a purpose, and a look at our relative, who just like us, was made in the image of God. It was his desire to tell the world that our God is all knowing; God is all present; God is all-powerful; and God is worthy of worship! Before my journey on the Ark, I found the idea of discovering my ancestors quite interesting. I never dreamed that a trip to visit the Ark Encounter would bring me into an encounter with my relative Noah, son of Lamech, and it would bring me to a place of renewal and commitment. I want to carry this message of love and salvation to my generation. I am to continue the work and carry the legacy that Noah passed to me. Will you join me as we take this message into this new year 2017 and make a difference in our world? Who knows, it might be you or me that God uses to change the world! Glenda Prichard is a preschool and children's specialist. She is passionate about using her skills and talents with preschoolers and children. Glenda is married to Phil Prichard and they have two sons (and daughters-in-law) and ve grandchildren. Glenda and her husband are members of East Athens Baptist Church in Athens, TN. Glenda can be reached at littlehouseinthebigwoods.pg@gmail.com.

Gò0dNews for Everyone OVERCOMING ANXIETY

The more you pray, the less you’ll panic. The More your worship, the less you worry. —Rick Warren by Destiny Hope Shreve

lmost everyone goes through the typical New Year’s cycle—making resolutions, then struggling to keep those commitments. Sound familiar? Doing this can produce a lot of negativity and cause you to start off your year feeling like a failure. This is not a good mindset to carry with you into the future. For the past few years, one of my resolutions has always involved overcoming anxiety. I make the decision to stop worrying so much and it usually works—but only for a little while. Then the old, familiar problems and challenges gather over my head like dark clouds on a rainy day. This year, I intend to succeed. But to do so, I need to identify clearly the problem areas and the solutions.

Gò0dNews for Teens

God’s commandments, panic sets in, and questions swirl in the mind like, Am I going to get caught?—Will God forgive me?—Is this going to ruin my future? Psalm 38:18 warns, “I confess my sins; they fill me with anxiety” (GNB).

The Consequence of Anxiety

There are many consequences of anxiety, but the following three are some of the most destructive: Weakness—Charles Spurgeon said, “Our anxiety does not empty tomorrow of its sorrows, but only empties today of its strength.” It weakens us mentally and emotionally so that we cannot deal effectively with life’s challenges. Misery—Proverbs 12:25 says, “Anxiety in the heart of man causes depression.” It darkens our minds with a sense The Cause of Anxiety of sadness and hopelessness. There are many causes of anxiety, but one of the Anger—One anxiety management website suggests, worst culprits is fear—fear of failure, fear of change, fear “Anxiety causes severe, constant stress. That means that of rejection, fear of temptation, and fear of the future. “Getting over a painful experience is much like crossing monkey bars. You have to let go at some point in you become irritable easier.” Sometimes the reason people We tend to fear what we think we cannot control. Jesus order to move forward.”—C.S. Lewis get angry is due to a deeper inner conflict that triggers dealt with this issue in His firstby Destiny Hope Shreve worry or nervousness. main message. He urged twist, and turn in unpredictable ways? That’s when he season is beginning to shift. Fall is in the air;

The Challenge of Change

leaves are beginning to make from His disciples nottheir to switch worry vibrant greens to autumn hues. Every time I look about food around I see changes taking place;and and clothing, while I love this seasonal transition,and otherthen types of change He said:can make me anxious and even upset. I have a love/hate relationship with “Do not change. If things stay the same forbe too anxious long, I get terribly bored. But when too many thingstomorrow; evolve all at once, about forI find that I am desperately seeking shelter in the familiar. tomorrow be in Around three months ago, my lifeshall was altered major ways. People I thought would be friends forever anxious for its own suddenly deserted me. It was a chaotic week full of tears things. Sufficient to for and pain. Afterwards, I understood it all happened a reason (like the often quoted scripture, “Toevil everything the day is the there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven” Eccl. it”actually (Matt.God 6:34 3:1 NKJV). I realized that itof was who took those people out of my lifeNKJV). to make sure I didn’t follow the downward path they were pursuing. cause Then I began to see changeAnother for the better. I enrolled in Cleveland Highof School, reconnected anxiety is sin. with old friends, and got transformed at the two church When people camps I attended. All of this was great, but there were times I felt like I was on aintentionally roller coaster and not strapped in well. Because I was fearful of new rebel against challenges I had never faced before, I wanted to go back so badly to the familiar. Thankfully, I pushed through. Have you ever felt that way . . . like your life was poised at the top of a track, about to quickly plunge,

38 // January 2017 26 // October 2016

you invite God into the situation; and if you believe,

The ofofAnxiety He willCure take control every circumstance and make

“all things work together for good” (Rom. 8:28 NKJV). There are many cures for anxiety, but usually God is That’s when you discover that change can be greatly the source. One ofamy scriptures is from Proverbs beneficial, and here’s few favorite key reasons why: Changes can make you more flexible. Being 31. That chapter describes characteristics of a godly resistant to new things can make a stressful situation woman. VerseFacing 25 says, “She is clothed with feel even worse. changes in life teaches you to be strength and more fluid and able to “go with the flow.” dignity and she laughs without fear of the future” (NLT). Change can make you more intelligent. If there were Once you demands put your faith intransitions, God andyou commit no difficult or awkward would your life never learn new things or have new experiences that totally to Him, there is no need to worry about tomorrow, awaken your hidden potential. because it’scan in make His hands. Change you grow in faith. Think of all the biblical examples, like Abraham leaving his Philippians 4:6 commands, “Be anxious for nothing, homeland, Moses leaving his prestigious position, the but in everything by prayer and supplication, with children of Israel leaving the bondage of Egypt, David leaving his sheep, Esther leaving an ordinary life, and thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God” Peter leaving his fishing nets. We remember these Bible (NASB). the primary answer totheovercoming anxiety charactersSo because of their courage to face unknown. Who knows? You might be next on God’s list. is prayer. “When anxiety was great within me, Your

consolation brought joy to my soul” (Ps. 94:19 NIV). Destiny Hope Shreveisisthe the daughter of Mike Destiny Shreve daughter of Mike and Elizabeth and Elizabeth Shreve, pastors of The Sanctuary. Shreve, pastors of The Sanctuary in Cleveland. She She will be a junior at Cleveland High School, hopes to have a career inCleveland journalism.. High School as a isand currently attending junior and hopes to work in the field of journalism.

Gò0dNews for Everyone

What Will Your Resolution Be? Every promise God has made, He has kept and made available to mankind.

by Dr. Greg Collins

he older I get, the faster time flies by. Each year seems

cast any aside, but He will embrace those who call out to Him.

to pass by faster than the one before it. It seems like

John 6:37 says, “All that the Father giveth me shall come to me;

only yesterday I was beginning my first winter in the

and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out” (KJV).

south, and now 2016 is gone and we are well into our second

Salvation is a gift from God. Through the shed blood of

winter here. One of the great traditions of each new year is the famous

Jesus on the cross of Calvary, God has fulfilled a promise to redeem His creation. He has promised His gift is for all of

New Year’s resolution—time when we make a vow to do

mankind and those who will receive Jesus; He will receive unto

something this year that we didn’t do last year, or something

Himself and be their redeemer, their salvation, and their God.

we did do that we won’t do this year. We resolve to break

Man will make many resolutions and promises over

bad habits, lose weight, work more or work less, all sorts of

the course of his life—some he will keep but many he

resolutions. The reality is, within six weeks, most of us will

will break. God has made many wonderful promises to

forget all about those things and all those resolutions we made.

mankind. Every promise that God made, He has kept and

God takes vows or resolutions very seriously. In the Book of Deuteronomy 23:21 God says: “When you make a vow to

made available to mankind. This year, my hope and prayer is that all of the world

the Lord your God, you shall not delay to pay it; for the Lord

would resolve to take upon themselves the promises of God

your God will surely require it of you, and it would be sin to

and the gift of salvation through Jesus Christ. Jesus is the

you”(NKJV). When we make a vow to God, it’s a vow that

fulfillment of every promise of God to His creation.

God intends for us to keep. If we fail to keep that vow, then it becomes sin to us. God is a covenant God. What He says He will do is exactly what He will do. He will not break His word or His promises to us. Unlike us, God keeps every vow He has ever made. Isn’t it exciting to know that what God says He will do, He does? When Jesus promised that all who call upon Him He will not

40 // January 2017

Acts 16:30-31 And he brought them out and said, "Sirs, what must I do to be saved?" So they said, "Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved, you and your household" (NKJV). Dr. Greg Collins has served over 20 years in ministry. A graduate of Andersonville Seminary, Dr. Collins’ ministry has impacted thousands of people around the country and world through TV, print and internet outreaches. He also preaches and teaches in many venues and crusades around the world. Most Sundays he can be found in the Pulpit of Faith Worship Center in Chatsworth, Georgia.

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Gò0dNews for your Taste Buds

Fajita Chicken Casserole

by Angie Parris

his is not a spicy recipe. If you want spice, use Rotel tomatoes instead of just diced and use Mexican Cheese instead of Colby blend.

• 4 cups shredded cooked chicken (about 3 large breasts) • 2 cups instant rice (uncooked) • 1 (10.5 oz.) can cream of chicken soup • 1 cup sour cream • 2 cups frozen “onion and bell pepper blend” • 1 (10 oz.) can diced tomatoes

42 // January 2017

• 1.5 cups chicken broth • 1 packet Fajita seasoning (I used mild) • 2 cups shredded Colby/Monterrey cheese Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Lightly spray a 9 X 13 baking dish with nonstick spray. In a large bowl, mix all ingredients using half the cheese and transfer to baking dish. Bake for about 25 minutes; top with remaining cheese and return to the oven until cheese is melted. Serve with crusty bread, flour tortillas, or tortilla chips! Enjoy!

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 Understanding Pain Series What is Pain?

by Dr. James Marcum

ecause questions about pain are the most

conditions. This might manifest as a burning, tingly, or

common questions we receive through our

pins-and-needles type of pain.

website, I am writing a series of articles on

Sometimes pain is caused by the nerves functioning

pain. Each month I will cover some aspect of pain. A

abnormally. This is termed dysfunctional pain. If pain

good place to start is to explain what pain is. Pain is an

continues beyond six months, it is termed chronic pain.

unpleasant feeling often caused by damaging stimuli.

Another definition of chronic pain is pain extending

The unpleasant feelings let us know something is “not

beyond the expected period of healing. Unfortunately,

right.” Hopefully, the cause of the pain can be identified

chronic pain is common and the 100 million meds help

and the stimuli of pain removed. Pain can be a physical

only 50 per cent of those suffering from chronic pain.

or a mental pain. Most pain goes away when the cause is removed.

Pain is variable from person to person and there are many aspects in which the medical profession is

Sometimes, however, pain arises and the cause cannot

still learning. In the upcoming articles, pain in different

be identified. Pain is the most common reason a

parts of the body will be addressed.

person consults with a provider. Pain is perceived

Remember, pain is abnormal and is a warning that

and processed by our nervous

something is not right. Nerves detect the abnormality;

system, which includes the brain.

transfer the information to the spinal canal and

Sometimes pain is caused by the

eventually to the brain. Genetics, brain

stimulation of the peripheral

function, and underlying disease

nerves by mechanical, thermal, or

states are a few of the many

chemical damage. This is termed

variables that determine how our

nociceptive pain.

body interprets pain. Trauma

Neuropathic pain is caused by

and nociceptive pain are the most

damage or disease affecting the

common cause of acute pain. The

nerves. Many medical

most common causes of chronic pain

conditions can cause

are back pain, which involves one in

this type of pain

four persons, arthritis, headaches, and

including nutritional

nerve damage.

deficiencies,

diabetes,

pray for each other as we have an

medications, or

Ultimate Physician who will help us

inflammatory

understand pain.

44 // January 2017

As we learn about pain, let’s

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 “I Am Hungry for God . . . ” Really?

In John 6:35 “Jesus replied, I am the Bread of Life. He who comes to Me will never hunger; he who believes on Me shall never thirst.”

by Don Smith his verse, as any other, sounds like one of

comes with performing miracles. It wasn’t about

those promises that people misinterpret;

doing the “works of God,” it was about drawing

taking it to mean something for which it was

attention to themselves. Their bellies were craving

never intended. I challenge you to read, slowly and

attention, fame, fortune; they were really looking for

deliberately, the entire sixth chapter of John. If you

nothing less than witchcraft.

will, you will see a theme that Jesus is building. • He baits the disciples to feed 5,000 men (not

Look at John 1, the whole chapter. Jesus is the Word. Jesus is the Light, Jesus is Life. I present to you

counting women and children), when they had

this thesis: If your evidence of being a Christian is the

no tangible resources.

performing of miracles, you are actually nothing more

• He escapes an attempted forced inaugural.

than a witch or warlock. The one who believes upon

• He walks on water.

Jesus is doing the works of heaven (see John 6:29). If

• He rebukes His followers.

it’s all about the show, where’s the glory of God? If

• He grosses them out with a demand that they

it’s all about your miracle performing works rather

become cannibals. That’s just some highlights; in all of this, He is attempting to teach them something. After the feeding of the 5,000, the people wanted to know how they could “work the works of God?” Jesus gives them the answer in verse 29. They persist and He tells them that He is the bread

than a close intimate walk with God, you’re a belly filler—not a glorifier. Filling your “belly” with the Word of God is your goal in life, not filling an auditorium to show off your “power” with God. You must see, this isn’t about you; it’s about what He did for us. While we were yet sinners He died for us. I

that came down from heaven while Israel

will pursue Him in His Word, in prayer, in

was wondering in the wilderness. He is

fasting, in relationship.

pushing them to understand, but they don’t understand. They are insisting on “feeding their bellies.” I’d like to present to you a notion; they weren’t looking for a relationship with

So when you say that you’re hungry for God . . . why are you hungry? If you believe you will never hunger nor thirst again, what are you hungry for? Ezekiel 3:1-3 says, “Our bellies should be filled with the Word of

Him; they wanted fame.

God.” Psalm 34:18 says,

When He said, you

“The Lord is close to the

want nothing but to fill

broken hearted and saves

your own bellies, He

those who are crushed in

was more accurately

spirit” (NIV).

proclaiming that they wanted the fame that

46 // January 2017

Donald E. Smith Jr. M. Div., D.Min. He is executive director of Hearts Set Free. donsmith@heartsetfree.org

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ò0 Mission Statement:

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.

Christian Magazine

Writer Guidelines: Who: Our writers range from pastors,

professors, and professional writers to stay at home moms and dads, business professionals, and others who have a desire to 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 brooke.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.

issuu.com/goodnewscm Phone: 423.503.1410

48 // January 2017

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

Spiritual New Year’s Resolution When the goal is to honor and glorify God, He will help you achieve it.

by Jennifer Govea

ew Year’s resolutions have various religious

style of Christian music on the Spotify app by searching for

origins, some of which date back to the Babylonians

“hymns,” “great worship songs,” or “Christian rap.”

and Romans who made promises to their gods.

• Lend a hand. Commit two to four hours a month by

Nowadays, this reflection of self-improvement tends to focus

either helping a department in your church or helping in the

on physical and financial goals that include losing weight,

community (cooking at a shelter, being a translator at the

quitting smoking, starting to exercise, spending less, and

jail, or organizing canned goods at the food bank).

saving more. Those are all good goals, but have you ever considered making any spiritual goals? Wherever you are in your spiritual journey, there’s

• Dig deeper. I’ve been a Christian for thirty-two years, but it wasn’t until I started reading God’s Word for myself and having an intentional time with Him seven years ago

always a way to grow deeper in your relationship with

that I felt a deeper connection with my Creator and Savior.

Christ. With the motive of knowing God more and

Pick a time, a place, and a plan to be with God on a regular

making Him known to others, take a look at the following

basis. One online resource is Our Daily Bread (odb.org).

suggestions and ask God what areas of your life He wants to transform. • Get more involved. If you already attend church on

• Up the ante. Perhaps you throw in whatever change is in your pocket into the offering plate. If so, consider being a percentage giver by committing to donate a certain

Sunday mornings, consider joining a Bible study or small

percentage at the beginning of each pay period. If you

group. You will find a group of people that can be new

already give consistently, think about raising the amount, or

friends, pray with you, support you during hard times,

giving a special offering to your church’s building fund, or

cheer you on when you get a promotion or have a new baby,

giving to missions.

and help you when you need to move. • Pump up the jam. Whether you are driving, cleaning,

If you find it difficult to focus on one or two of these spiritual resolutions, remember Proverbs 3:6 that reminds

or exercising, listening to Christian music will encourage

you to seek God in all that you do, and He will show you

your heart and mind. Radio stations in range are Air 1 (93.1),

which path to take.

Immanuel Broadcasting Station (102.5), J103 (102.7) and the new HOPE (93.3). Many radio stations including The Fish (104.7) and K-Love have free apps you can download so that you can listen from anywhere. You can also choose your

50 // January 2017

Jennifer Govea is a bilingual editor and former missionary in Latin America. She and her husband currently work at Rock Bridge Community Church and have a son.

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

Listening Is a Learned Trait by Kelly McDonald Jr.

My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires. —James 1:19-20 NIV

presented by other people. Even more so, here is a difference between hearing and we should be quick to listen to the voice and listening. Hearing is just allowing words discernment of God so that we can properly to go through your ears. Listening is an respond. A wise man once said, “If you are active process where you are considering the words being spoken and taking them to heart. always talking, then you will only repeat what you already know. But if you listen, you will Your response should be geared toward the have everything you currently know and learn message that another person is conveying to what someone else knows at the same time.” you. A conversation is defined as a message received. That message is processed, and an One time in particular when we want appropriate response issued. In a world “First of all, then, I urge is that supplications, prayers, to intercessions, and thanksgivings guard our words is when we be aremade in thefor all of texting, emails, cellare phones, we want thatpresence God. Solomon wrote, “Guard your men, for kings and and all who in high positions, we may of lead a quiet and peaceable life, godly instant gratification. We want to say what we steps when you go to the house of God. Go and respectful in every way. This is good, and it is acceptable in the sight of God our Savior” want our way, but this is not God’s way. God near to listen rather than to offer the sacrifice —1Timothy 2:1-3 RSV wants us to be good listeners. He wants us of fools, who do not know that they do wrong. by Kelly Jr.quick with your mouth, do not be to listen to others and to Him. Everyone has McDonald, Do not be something to contribute in a conversation. hasty in surrounded your heart to utter hen it comes to prayer, one of the basic questions them to be by people thatanything speak truthbefore and stand Ecclesiastes 3:7 tells us that there is “A time to God. God is in heaven and you are on earth, one could askto is: “Who should we pray for?” In upon God’s Word. be silent and a time speak” (NIV). so let your words be few” (Eccl. 5:1-2 NIV). we should pray for everyone! Paulguard gives us Other leaders your include your boss Sometimes weinare solife busy talking thatand weothers miss In the short, process of listening, we must specific guidance on this subject in 1 Timothy 2:1-3. The first at work. If those above you are blessed, you will be blessed as God’s voice. We can miss His written Word ourselves against anger. James mentions this as well. in the versesheabove. group of people mentionsOften when itwe comes to prayer is our well. Of course, we should never forget our church leaders. hear about things in the In Job said, “For leaders. Now, let’s be honest. As humans, we often criticize our They watch over you 34:3-4, and haveElihu to give an account to the God.ear world or in church, and we tongue food. leaders, but praying for them is much more productive. There’s We shouldtests have awords desire toas seethe them make thetastes right decision get angry. This anger brings Let us discern for ourselves what some behind Paul’s words that bring this lesson home. as well. “Obey your leaders and submit to them; for they is are us tohistory the brink of actions right; let us learn together what is that are God’s Paul wascontrary living in thetoRoman Empire. Many of the Roman keeping watch over your souls, as men who will have to give good” (NIV). Let’s listen, taste the purpose in the world. emperors were ruthless. As an example, one of these rulers account. Let them do this joyfully, and not sadly, for that words given, and give a proper In our premature was named Nero. Some historical sources say that he burned would be of no advantagefrom to you”God. (Heb. 13:17 response Let’sRSV). listen to anger, we can say or others, weperson can put listen to God and Rome and thenthat blamed on Christians. He lied and killed We cannot controlso every in every position do things weit later be used of God. Christians. If weshould can pray be for someone like Nero, then we can of authority. Praying for these leaders will help lessen these regret. We quick to listen theHow do we do this? pray for our leaders to today! feelings of anxiety and uncertainty that can come upon us entire matter that is We want to pray for our leaders to make the right as they prepare to make important decisions. “The king's

Pray for Our Leaders

decisions. Whether it’s the president, a congressman, a local

heart is in the hand of the Lord, as the rivers of water: he

official, or a judge on any level, we want to pray for wisdom.

turneth it whithersoever he will” (Prov. 21:1 KJV). God can

Their decisions will have a direct influence on us. Pray for God

turn the heart of even the most ruthless ruler toward Biblical

to save them and assist them in making godly decisions. It is

principles. Always remember leaders in your prayers.

important that we pray for leaders no matter what we might think about them. Another wise way to pray for our leaders is to pray for godly influences to come into their lives. Pray for

52 2017 50 // // January 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

A Moment to Remember

The moment I met them I knew I wanted to help them have a memory of a lifetime.

by Rusty Asble

ecently I was introduced to a

handling firearms and ammunition. On a

protection, and guidance as a decision

missionary family that was home

deer picture, I explained shot-placement

would soon be made to shoot or not.

on furlough from serving in a

and the importance of a clean and ethical

At 8:45 a.m. a shot rang out from

southeast Asian country. I was excited

shot. The Dad and son both took turns

their stand location. At 10 a.m. I showed

that our church could house them in

shooting my 22 caliber rifle with a scope

up to see what had taken place. A big

our mission home as they traveled the

that matched the 243 caliber rifle scope

smile beamed across the face of the son

country raising support for the years to

that his son would be using for the hunt.

from the stand. On the ground, with

come and sharing what Christ is doing.

This process allowed for much practice

great excitement, he shared his morning

The family was easy to talk to.

that assisted in the proper trigger-pull

story. We found the location of the shot

They were genuine; I like that about

technique and acquiring your target

and within 35 yards of following the

people. That drew me even closer

quickly within the scope. After an hour

blood trail, we found his first deer—a

to them. Also, knowing many times

of shooting, success was achieved with

beautiful God-ordained doe. Dad and son

pastor’s kids and Missionary kids do

multiple shots with a two-inch area on a

embraced. It was at that moment I knew

not get to experience opportunities due

consistent basis.

this was going to be a moment to remember.

to finances, lost connections, or just not

The Hunt.

having opportunities available to them. I was impressed to ask if He (Dad) and son or daughter would like to do a hunt for deer. It didn’t take long to get a resounding yes.

To the Range.

At 5:30 a.m. on Saturday, October

29, the 2016 Youth Hunt would soon be underway. While driving to the hunt property, I shared about the double-ladder stand location they would be hunting, the wind direction that was needed, what to

Taking a couple hours from the

expect, and the general firearm reminders.

office, I gathered my shooting range

I was able to get both Dad and son quietly

items and met the family. Driving to

in the stand about an hour before legal

Cleveland Hunting Rifle Pistol Club, we

shooting light.

talked about deer and the use of a firearm

As I went to another stand with my

for hunting. At the range, I took the time

daughter. I knew that this may be the

to explain safety, the dangers of a firearm,

morning for great success. Walking in the

and the necessity of responsibility while

darkness I said a prayer of thankfulness,

54 // January 2017

We all knelt down and prayed over the doe and thanked Christ for the ability, the opportunity, and conservation practices for such an animal. High fives and hugs followed. So let me ask you, what’s been your moment to remember? Have you made one? Can you make one? Take the first step and see what Christ can do. It will be for a lifetime. Reverend Rusty Asble Taking Faith To The Field 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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