Gò0dNews January 2022
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About Us WRITERS
Amy Eaton Andrew Lee Brenda Dedmon Brian Johnson Chad Van De Griek Dean Draper Dorothy Teague Greg Grotewold Jonathon Wright Jordan Burchette Judy Hood Katie Loveless Kyle Blevins Larry Lane Matthew Dennis Mike Shreve Pam Wattenbarger Paula Burgner Sandra Gilmore Wayne Williams
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Caleb Prytherch Email: art.goodnews@gmail.com
PHOTOGRAPHER Paula Knipp 423-310-4207
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Hello Friends, We want to take a moment to tell you who we are and what we are about. Our names are Matt and Bethany Ruckman and we have six beautiful children, Brendon, Kailey, Andrew, Leah Jean, Emma, and Cooper. We live in Cleveland, Tennessee, and love what this town has to offer! We have started GoodNews Christian Magazine because we feel that when God, family, and community are combined, lives will be changed. GoodNews Christian Magazine is a complimentary, 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
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Contents JANUARY 2022
GoodNews from the Pastor’s Desk
6 Would You Rest if Your Life Depended on It? by Matthew Dennis
GoodNews for Kids
8 Indoor Winter Party by Brenda Dedmon
GoodNews Money Matters
10 Fitness, Finances, and Faith by Andrew Lee
GoodNews for Men
12 Stand Your Ground by Kyle Blevins
GoodNews for Women
14 For The Weary by Amy Eaton
GoodNews for Everyone
18 Giving God Thanks After Being Robbed
by Mike Shreve GoodNews for Everyone
20 Forty: Life Starts Here by Paula Burgner
GoodNews for Life
22 My Dad
by Dean Draper
GoodNews for Parents
24 What A $40 Jogging Stroller Taught Me
by Jordan Burchette GoodNews Cover Story
26 Volunteer Rid A Pest GoodNews for Everyone
28 Kicks and Kindness
by Chad Van De Griek
GoodNews for Everyone
30 Surrender the Burden by Greg Grotewold
GoodNews for Grandparents
32 The Arrival
by Wayne Williams
GoodNews for Everyone
34 Picking Up the Pieces by Dorothy Teague
GoodNews Business Spotlight
36 Hyderhangout: Quilt
6
Fabric & More
GoodNews for Everyone
38 What Happens When
Pastors Pray...Together
by Larry Lane
GoodNews for Everyone
40 A New Start
by Brian Johnson
GoodNews for your Taste Buds
42 The Best Flourless Chocolate Cake
by Pam Wattenbarger
26
GoodNews for Everyone
44 Head In the Clouds by Katie Loveless
GoodNews for Everyone
46 The Joy of January by Sandra Gilmore
GoodNews for Everyone
48 Jesus Our Faithful Friend by Jonathon Wright
GoodNews Poetry
50 Soar With the Eagles by Judy Hood
50
Gò0dNews from the Pastor’s Desk Would You Rest if Your Life Depended on It?
W
by Matthew Dennis
hen the pandemic hit our shores, my life
Isaiah 30:15 tells us, “This is what the Sovereign
was forced to slow down. As someone in
Lord, the Holy One of Israel, says: ‘Only in returning to
ministry, slowing down can be incredibly
me and resting in me will you be saved. In quietness and
challenging for me. Pastors tend to be terrible at the
confidence is your strength. But you would have none of it.’”
spiritual discipline of rest. In general, American culture is
That last line has been incredibly convicting for me. Are
fast-paced and busy. Many of us like being in the hustle
we willing to put away our facades? Would we rest if we
and bustle and tend to place our identity in what we
believed our lives depended on it? The good news is that
do, rather than in who God says we are. Because of this,
although slowing down can be scary, God has so much
slowing down can be incredibly frightening.
better that He wants to give to you. As a good, perfect
Why is this? Peter Scazzero states, in The Emotionally Healthy Leader, that everyone has a shadow, and this shadow is defined as the “accumulation of untamed emotions, less-thanpure motives, and thoughts that, while largely unconscious, strongly influence and shape your behaviors. It is the damaged but mostly hidden version of who you are” (page 55). When the world slowed down, I found myself changing on the inside as the business that once drowned out my inner man was no longer there. God began
Heavenly Father, He wants to give good things to His
revealing wounds He wanted to heal, as well as areas in
children, but we have to do our part and get up. Just like
my life where I was getting a false sense of security and
the paralyzed man at the pool, Jesus is asking us, “Do you
identity. He wanted to replace those areas with Himself
want to get well?” (John 5:6). Go to that silent place, slow
as the source of my self-worth.
down, and ask the Father what He wants to remove and
Likewise, in the quiet place, God will reveal to you
give you in return. Ask Him what He thinks of you and
what motivates you. After that, He will begin cutting
how He wants you to see Him. You very well may face
things out of you; and like surgery, the cutting and
brokenness, but your brokenness is the bridge to your
healing will hurt because there is a process and recovery
destiny, and God wants to make something beautiful out
time. However, if that surgery is not done, our shadows
of it.
will slowly kill us on the inside. Many of us will wake have been if only we had stepped into everything God had planned for us.
6 // January 2022
About The Author
up one day and have to face the man or woman we could Matthew Dennis is currently serving as a children’s pastor and one of the college ministry leaders at The Grace Point in Cleveland, TN. You can follow him at awakenpurpose.wordpress.com.
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Gò0dNews for Kids
Indoor Winter Party
W
by Brenda Dedmon
hen January brings wintry weather, it is difficult to find fun things to do. Ask your parents if they would help you plan an “Indoor Winter
Party” and invite your friends to come for a fun event. The following are activities that would make a fun party! Pin the Nose on the Snowman To play this game, you will need to draw three circles for a snowman on a poster board. Draw a nose on the snowman. Cut out noses from orange
Donuts on a Stick You will need the following items: miniature powered white donuts (3 per child), black jellybeans (6 per child), orange jellybeans (1 per child), strawberry Fruit Roll-Ups, (1 per child), paper candy sticks (1 per child). Have each person place the donuts on the candy stick. The black jellybeans are for buttons and eyes. The orange jellybeans are for the noses. Fruit Roll-Ups are for the scarf and mouth.
construction paper. Print the name of each person on the noses. Secure a blindfold for the game. Blindfold one person and lead them to the board to place their nose on the snowman. Continue until everyone has had a turn. The winner is the one that is the closest to where the nose should be. Candy Dice To play this game, you will need a dice and a bag of assorted miniature candy. Give each player four pieces of candy and place the remaining candy in a pile on the table. Each person will take a turn rolling the dice. The following are the instructions for the number person to your left, 3 Pick two pieces from candy pile, 4 Skip your turn, 5 Take a piece from someone, 6 Put one piece back to the pile. The winner will be the person who gets ten pieces of candy first. Ice Sculptures Before the party, freeze water with various food colors in assorted sizes and shapes of plastic cups, bowls, muffin tins, and cake pans. Minutes before doing the activity, have your parents remove the ice from the containers by running warm water on them. Place plastic tablecloths on the tables. Allow each child to use the ice to make ice sculptures. Be sure to take pictures of the sculptures.
8 // January 2022
Strawberry Hot Chocolate You will need to ask your parents to make this to enjoy with your donut snack. The following are the ingredients: 1 cup of sliced strawberries, ¼ cup sugar, 2 cups of milk, ½ cup of white chocolate morsels. In a small bowl, place the sugar over the strawberries and set them aside for 10 minutes, then puree in a food processor. Heat the milk and chocolate over medium low heat until the chocolate has melted. Add strawberries and cook for 2 more minutes. We read in Ecclesiastes 3:11, “God has made everything beautiful for its time.” Even on cold, dreary days, we can still enjoy fun times with friends. About The Author
rolled: 1 Pick one piece from candy pile, 2 Give a piece to the
Rev. Brenda Dedmon is the retired director of the Children’s Learning Center, First Baptist of Dalton and an avid Roll Tide fan.
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Fitness, Finances, and Faith 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.
A
s we enter 2022, the New Year’s resolutions have been made once again, and loftier personal goals have been set. Very likely, some of these resolutions involve money and fitness. Save more money this year! Make a budget and stick to it! Invest more for retirement! Pay off debts! Exercise daily and eat more veggies! Lose X number of pounds! Remember Ben Franklin’s famous maxim, “Early to bed, early to rise, makes a man (and woman) healthier, wealthier, and wise.” Let’s explore the relationship between fitness and finances in order to be both healthier and wealthier this year (making you wiser, as well). Hal Elrod’s 2012 book The Miracle Morning has been cited by countless millionaires as a key to financial success. The book recommends waking up early in order to have time to prepare your mind, body, and soul for whatever challenges and opportunities you may encounter each day. One of the recommended activities each morning is exercise. Whether this involves cardio, weightlifting, yoga stretches, or a combination of all three, numerous studies reveal that many financially successful (wealthy) people regularly begin each morning with exercise. In fact, these people feel strongly that staying physically fit is essential to their financial success. Many of the millionaires surveyed said that regular exercise lowers their stress levels and increases their energy levels which consequently allows them to think clearly and creatively about business deals and investments—directly impacting their finances. Many financially successful people are what we’d call “hard charging go-getters”; they are always in motion, physically and mentally, so physical fitness is invaluable to their lifestyles and decision-making. Consider other important connections between fitness and finances. Both areas involve disciplined behavior—
10 // January 2022
exercising daily, monitoring your diet and nutrition, monitoring your spending and saving habits, regularly investing, paying attention to your weight and net worth to ensure you’re on track to meet your fitness and finance goals. It won’t just happen by chance or luck—fitness and financial success require intentionality, persistence, and a plan. Both areas also involve “delayed gratification” because you likely won’t notice major benefits until some time has passed. It takes a while to see weight loss and clothes fitting more loosely, and it takes a while to pay off debts and to see investments and net worth growing significantly. This is where faith comes in. Hebrews 11:1 reminds us that faith is the “evidence of things not seen” (yet). Unless you believe that your efforts and discipline will eventually pay off, odds are you won’t stick with it. Since March of 2021, I’ve lost about forty pounds and am now at the same weight and pants as when I was a college student. I’ve been using the Noom system which is really just an incredibly simple mindset shift of how to eat and to think about mealtimes. Some of the “tricks” include slowing down and eating more “mindfully” to enjoy each bite (no screentime during meals—no TV, no scrolling on your phone); just eat quietly without distractions. Another “hack” is to try eating with your less dominant hand which makes you slow down naturally because it’s awkward. Notice how this “slow down” mindset also applies to finances, like the advice to “sleep on it” instead of making sudden impulse purchases. What’s the best workout? Easy—it’s the workout you just finished! A completed workout is done, “in the books,” and moving you toward better fitness. Likewise, what’s the best investment? It’s the one you already had auto-drafted out of your paycheck and invested into your retirement plan without you even realizing it! When it comes to fitness and finances, “Done is better than perfect!”
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Gò0dNews for Men
Stand Your Ground
M
by Kyle Blevins
en, as leaders in our families, our businesses,
firm in the faith. Be courageous. Be strong.” Even if
churches, or other causes, are often charged
you feel refreshed, this can still be quite the challenge.
with a generalized expectation to “stand firm.”
Unfortunately, even as strong men, we are very reward-
I believe this expectation is a hopeful one where people
driven beings. Even as leaders, there must be some cause
need to have someone to rely on. Most men will stand
for us to fight for ourselves and others. This charge from
up to this challenge, but even in doing so, I have known men in my life who take this to the extreme in both unhealthy, but also inspiring ways. Some have taken that to mean not “feeling” at all, while others have neglected themselves mentally and physically to set out what they aim to do. At the end of the day, that kind of standing firm does well to serve the hidden master of pride, but little to solidify the foundation which would actually carry us through. That is the foundation of faith. As I think about different situations people might expect us to stand firm in, the only one that remains worth standing for is that of spiritual and moral excellence, of faith. If standing your ground doesn’t maintain a level
1 Corinthians 16:13 may need another “boost” and I
of security, of spiritual well-being, or of a sharpened
believe Romans 5:3-5 can give us just that. It reminds
vision for that which you are leading, then not standing
us of all the rewards for fighting through the right
firm is not weakness—it is wisdom. I share that because
thing. “We know that suffering produces perseverance;
I know some men who have tried to cling to every little
perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope
opportunity that comes their way. If they don’t control in
does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been
excellence all that finds its way to them, then they are less
poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who
of a man. I pray today that lie is identified, spoken to, and
has been given to us.”
cast out. Now that we have filtered out what should really be stood for, you should feel renewed energy already
I pray that you are nourished in your spirit today, that you filter down where you wish your excellence to be, and that the Holy Spirit be with you in all you aim to do.
than you realized as you focused on something more special. 1 Corinthians 16:13 says, “Be on guard. Stand
12 // January 2022
About The Author
about standing firm. Perhaps you have more in the tank Kyle Blevins is a husband and a father of three boys. He enjoys connecting with the world through skateboarding and music. Apart from his day job, he is a freelance writer and aspiring author. You can follow his work at iamredirected.com.
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Gò0dNews for Women
For The Weary
“A
by Amy Eaton
thrill of hope, a weary world rejoices.” Though those words were penned by
Adolphe Adam in 1847 when he wrote “O
Holy Night,” they still hit home for many of us today. It’s been a hard few years, and 2021 was one I found myself in the depths of grief often. Losing loved ones and friends, missing loved ones far away, and experiencing multiple significant changes has left me weary. I know many whom are also weary from all the weight they feel from difficult days, sickness, grief, and heartache. My point is: the world is still weary… All this ongoing weariness takes a toll on our bodies, minds, and souls. Study the science of stress and you’ll quickly learn that lack of rest and increased stress levels can make you more prone to sickness and even depression. God designed our bodies to need rest. He even went as far as to model the importance Himself during creation week. Jesus was a beautiful example of practicing rest and prioritizing stillness with God. We too must make rest and stillness with God a priority to be the best, most healthy versions of ourselves. I love that Jesus reminds us that we can come to Him for true rest in Matthew 11:28-30. While His instruction is speaking to practical and physical rest, it’s also much deeper than that. When we refuse to pause or prioritize rest, we are in essence saying “I can’t rest, everything is resting upon my shoulders.” This is like saying we can do it without God. Yikes! I’m guilty at times, too. But when I am willing to be aware of this mistaken self-sufficiency, I am then able to remember that any good things I accomplish are because of Christ’s sufficiency within me (Philippians 4:13 AMPC). When I’m tired, He welcomes me lovingly to receive His rest. He welcomes, you too: “Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life.
company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly” (Matthew 11:28-30 MSG). Beloved, as we embark on a new year and the possible busyness it brings, please remember to make time to rest with your Savior. Remember that you can do far more with what’s left of your days through spending time with Him, than you could ever do in your own strength. Bring Him your burdens, and make the exchange. Receive His rest. Keep company with Him as you learn to live freely and lightly. Looking for a simple devotional to help you focus on rest? Check out REST: Choosing Peace, Growth, and Learning Holy Rest on Amazon or other online retailers for a short monthly devotional with weekly Bible study, by Amy Eaton.
with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep
14 // January 2022
About The Author
I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work Amy Eaton has a passion for loving people and helping them see their worth and value in Christ. She hopes her writings will be an encouragement and point people to the heart of God (Acts 20:24).
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Cleveland Church Directory Apostolic
First Apostolic Church Of Cleveland 4859 Freewill Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (229) 343-6880
Assembly of God
Grace Assembly 1976 Westland Dr SW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-7729 The Collectives Church 3925 N. Ocoee Street, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 641-0193 Triune Assembly 301 Sunset Drive Cleveland, TN 37312
Baptist
Beacon Baptist Church 505 Corvin Rd NE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 472-7056 Bellefounte Baptist Church 132 Bellfounte Rd NE, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 336-2312 Bethel Baptist Tabernacle 3165 Buchanan Rd SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 479-5820 Berean Baptist Church 2355 Bucks Pocket Rd SE, Old Fort, TN 37362 (423) 478-1697 Big Spring Baptist Church 1415 Hardwick St SE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-1101 Blue Springs Baptist Church 699 Blue Springs Church Rd SW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-0932 Candies Creek Church 294 Old Eureka Rd Charleston, TN 37310 (423) 479-3731 Cedar Springs Baptist Church 723 Cedar Springs Church Rd SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 479-5506 Center Point Baptist Church 1205 Lower River Rd NW Charleston, TN 37310 (423) 336-2133 Cleveland Cowboy Church 3040 Blythe Rd. Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-7936 Cloverleaf Baptist Church 2290 Waterlevel Highway Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 339-3617 Clingan Ridge Baptist Church 2412 Georgetown Road, NW Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 472-3511 Church At Grace Point 2595 Old Freewill Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 728-5050 Covenant Baptist Church 249 Calhoun Rd SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 559-2653
16 // January 2022
Dalton Pike Baptist Church 3055 Benton Pike NE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 472-7606 East Cleveland Baptist Church 1145 Arnold St NE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-8728 Echos of Mercy Baptist Church 535 Durkee Rd SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 715-9739 Elkmont Baptist Church 4030 Old Freewill Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 479-4600 Emmanuel Baptist Church 1227 Powerline Dr NE, Cleveland, TN 37323 Farmland Community Church 1675 Greendale Dr. SE Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 473-9891 First Baptist Church 1275 Stuart Road Cleveland, Tennessee 37312 (423) 709-9100 Galilee Baptist Church 665 Old Chattanooga Pike SW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 496-2019 Henegar Baptist Church 7423 Mouse Creek Rd. Cleveland, TN 37312 Hopewell Baptist Church 188 Old Georgetown Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 479-3763 Lebanon Baptist Church 1411 Old Parksville Rd NE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 479-6700 Macedonia Baptist Church 3119 Spring Place Rd SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 479-1713 Maple Street Baptist Church 1700 Maple St NE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 478-3622 Maranatha Baptist Church 453 Blue Springs Ln SE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 614-8991 Michigan Avenue Baptist Church 2741 Benton Pike NE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 472-8891 Mt Carmel Baptist Church 7619 Blue Springs Rd, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 479-1620 New Friendship Baptist Church 1344 Chatata Valley Rd NE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 476-6007 North Cleveland Baptist Church 2815 Ocoee St N, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 476-8524 Oak Grove Baptist Church 4452 Bates Pike SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 479-9125 Old Pathway Baptist Church 224 Rymer Rd NE,
Cleveland, TN 37323 Parkway Baptist Church 185 Meadow Ln SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 339-5522 Philadelphia Baptist Church 910 30th St SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 Philippi Baptist Church 2325 Old Harrison Pike NW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 479-5385 Pleasant Grove Missionary Baptist Church 799 Inman Street East Cleveland, Tennessee 37311 (423) 476-4081 Public Church 850 17th St. NW Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 458-4405 Ridgeview Baptist Church 1501 S Ocoee St, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-5119 Samples Memorial Baptist Church 371 Samples Chapel Rd SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 476-2329 Shenandoah Baptist Church 138 Osment Rd SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 339-0103 Shiloh Baptist Church 3406 Blair Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 479-5755 Stuart Park Baptist Church 850 17th St NW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-6741 Tasso Baptist Church 164 Old Charleston Rd NE, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 559-2114 Temple Baptist Church 3070 Harrison Pike, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-6813 Thompson Spring Baptist Church 5660 Bates Pike SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 790-1823 Union Baptist Church 797 Hughes Lake Rd SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 559-1720 Valley View Baptist Church 4657 Spring Place Rd SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 472-7707 Washington Avenue Baptist Church 1720 Perry St SE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-0489 Waterville Baptist Church 4555 Dalton Pike SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 472-5582 West Cleveland Baptist Church 1959 Westland Dr SW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-8927 Westwood Baptist Church 4001 Georgetown Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 472-1534
White Oak Baptist Church 2043 White Oak Valley Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 559-2359
Catholic
St Therese Catholic Church 900 Clingan Ridge Dr NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 476-8123
Charismatic
Cleveland Christian Fellowship 695 S Ocoee St, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-2642
Church of God
Agape Place Church of God 2611 Blue Springs Road SE Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-8691 Community Chapel Church of God 807 Blythe Ave SE Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 479-2143 Cornerstone Church of God 1826 SE Dalton Pike Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 478-0006 Church of God Sanctified, Inc. 746 First Street N.E. Cleveland, TN. 37311 (423) 479-3895 East Cleveland Church of God 900 15th St NE Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 479-3389 Fellowship of Praise Church of God 931 Inman Street East Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 479-3121 Grace Community Church of God 4745 Mouse Creek Road NW, Cleveland, TN 37312. (423) 614-0708 Heritage Fellowship Church of God 4635 South Lee Hwy McDonald, TN 37353 (423) 476-6316 International Worship Center Centro Internacional de Adoración 533 Central Ave. NE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-1977 Kinser Church of God 141 Kinser Road Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 476-7400 Lakeview Church of God 105 Pound Street SE Cleveland, TN 37323 (423)-790-5805 North Cleveland Church of God 335 11th St NE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-5513 Michigan Avenue Church of God 515 Minnis Road NE (423) 284-7573 Mt Olive Church of God 3522 Harrison Pike, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 479-3381 Mt View Church of God 210 Roadway Dr SE, Cleveland, TN 37323
(706) 455-3528 Pine Hill Church of God 1484 Old Alabama Rd McDonald, TN 37353 (423) 488-0939 South Cleveland Church of God 1846 Volunteer Dr SW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-6382 Westmore Church of God 2440 Legacy Pkwy NW Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 479-3415
Church of God of Prophecy
Cleveland Spanish COGOP 2610 Grove Ave. Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 473-7199 Durkee Road COGOP 201 Durkee Rd. Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 472-4384 Keith Street Ministries COGOP 4000 Keith ST. NW Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 476-2448 Peerless Road COGOP 3301 Peerless Rd. NW Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 303-2680 Spring Place COGOP 2530 Spring Place Rd. Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-6414 Union Grove COGOP 533 Union Grove Rd Charleston, TN 37310 (423) 479-5357 Wildwood COGOP 140 Wildwood Ave Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 479-6584
The Church of God
The Church of God Jerusalem Acres 1826 Dalton Pike SE Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-1597
Community
Fellowship in Christ 1025 Beech Circle NW Cleveland TN 37312 (423) 314-2382
Disciples of Christ
First Christian Church 3625 N. Ocoee Street Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 472-6682
Episcopal
Saint Luke’s Episcopal Church 320 Broad St NW, Cleveland, TN 37311
Lutheran
First Lutheran Church 195 McIntire Ave NE, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 472-6811
Latter-day Saints
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 4200 Pryor Rd N.E. Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 503-6394
Methodist
Big Spring United Methodist 1196 Hardwick St SE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-5242 Black Fox United Methodist 1820 Old Chattanooga Pike SW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 339-1908 Broad Street United Methodist 155 Central Ave NW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-5586 First United Methodist Church 3425 Ocoee St N, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 476-4504 Mount Zion UMC 7223 Germantown Rd NW Cleveland, TN 37312 Pleasant Grove UMC 3043 Pleasant Grove Church Rd SW Cleveland, TN 37311 Red Hill United Methodist Church 527 Red Hill Valley Road SE Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 728-5413 South Cleveland United Methodist 1165 Church St SE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 507-5760 Tasso United Methodist 1106 Tasso Ln NE, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 479-4457 Trinity United Methodist Church 731 1st St SE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 614-7900 Valley Head Methodist Church 920 Mouse Creek Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 472-0575 Wesley Memorial Methodist 3405 Peerless Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 472-9578
Pentecostal
Faith Memorial Church 910 17th St NW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-6281 First United Pentecostal Church 4095 Peerless Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 476-9436 Full Gospel House of Prayer 1500 Wildwood Ave. Cleveland, TN Set Free Christian Fellowship 1175 King Edwards Ave. Cleveland, TN
Nazarene
Cleveland First Church Of The Nazarene 2712 Henderson Ave. Cleveland, TN 37312 423-472-7371 New Hope Church of the Nazarene 4514 Waterlevel Highway Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 473-3379
Non-Denominational
Benton Pike House Of Prayer 2615 Peach Orchard Hill Rd, Cleveland, TN 37323 Christian Fellowship Ctr 895 6th St NE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 479-9591
Church Alive Ministries 6315 Mouse Creek Road NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 476-8133 Cleveland Community Chapel 1823 Forest Ridge Dr. Cleveland, TN 37311 Cleveland Cornerstone Church 533 Broad St NW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 479-1775 Community Hall Church 1305 6th Street Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-2178 Crossroads Community Church 1000 South Lee Highway Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 716-2871 Dwelling Place Church International 523 Urbane Road NE Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 790-5200 Evening Light Gospel 200 20th St SE Cleveland, TN 37311 Fairhaven Ministry Center 1807 Blythe Ave. SE, Cleveland TN, 37311 Freedom Fellowship Church 3555 Blue Springs Rd, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 478-0654 God’s Family Fellowship 2823 South Lee Hwy Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 458-4490 Graceway Chapel 221 14th St NW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 728-2226 International House of Fire 1701 South Lee Hwy Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 790-0772 The Journey Church 3191 South Lee Hwy, McDonald, TN 37353 (423) 728-4100 Living By Faith Ministries 1175 King Edward Avenue Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 457-9072 Living Word Church 930 25th Street NW Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 339-3028 New Life Bible Church 155 S Ocoee St, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-3882 Restoration Fellowship 211 Trewhitt Dr SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 479-4249 Shema Israel Ministry 850 Elrod St SE Cleveland, TN 37311 423-994-8553 The Sanctuary 1203 Smith Dr. Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 478-2843 Tasso Christian Church 1135 Tasso Lane, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 479-2705 The TRIBE 1175 King Edward Avenue SE Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 380-8802
United Christian Church 2200 Peerless Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 479-4277 Unity Christian Ministries 2419 Georgetown Rd NW Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 473-9338 Walker Valley Community 787 Lauderdale Memorial Hwy Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 336-9696
Presbyterian
Charleston Cumberland Presbyterian Church 8267 N Lee Hwy, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 336-5004 First Cumberland Presbyterian 161 2nd St NE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-6751 First Presbyterian Church 433 N Ocoee St, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-5584 Flint Springs Cumberland Presbyterian Church 515 Flint Springs Rd Cleveland TN. 37323 (423) 284-6397 Prospect United Cumberland Presbyterian Church 310 New Murraytown Rd. NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 476-6181 St James Cumberland Presbyterian 151 Short St NE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-5762 Trinity Presbyterian PCA 1780 Stuart Rd. NE, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 559-9595
Seventh Day Adventist
Bowman Hills Adventist 300 Westview Dr NE Cleveland, TN 37312 Cleveland Fellowship Church 211 Trewhitt Drive Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 400-7054 East Cleveland Seventh-Day 801 Howard Circle SE Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-9299 Ladd Springs Seventh-Day 5860 Bates Pike SE Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 476-1889
Zion Assembly
Zion Assembly Church of God 5512 Waterlevel Hwy, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 476-3337
List/Update Your Church Listing (423) 478-6484
goodnewscm.com // 17
Gò0dNews for Everyone
Giving God Thanks After Being Robbed
O
by Mike Shreve
ne of my favorite stories about maintaining a
spirits whose agenda is to “steal, and kill, and destroy”
thankful heart comes from the respected Bible
(Jn. 10:10).
commentator, Matthew Henry. At a certain point
in his walk with God, he made a commitment to always abide by the often-quoted biblical command: “In everything
Anyone professing faith in God should pursue this mindset in the following two ways: First, when we approach God in prayer, we should
give thanks, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus
rehearse with gratitude the things He has already done in
concerning you” (1 Th. 5:18).
our lives, as commanded in Psalm 100:4: “Enter into His
Of course, this verse does not mean we give thanks to God for the problems of life, but rather, we thank God in
gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His name.”
spite of the problems of life—thus, rising above them. Not surprisingly, Matthew Henry’s commitment was put to a test soon after he made it. He was robbed. At first, he felt compelled to react in negative ways: upset, angry, depressed, and fearful. But then, he remembered his commitment. So, he sat down, took hold of his mind, and prayerfully pondered how to respond to the situation. Feeling inspired, he wrote down four things he decided he could be thankful for, despite the life-threatening encounter he had just endured. This is the proclamation he penned to God: “Let me be thankful first because I was never robbed before; second, because although they took my purse, they did not take my life; third, because although they took my all, it
Second, when we present our petitions, we’re instructed
was not much; and fourth, because it was I who was robbed,
to thank Him in advance for things we desire Him to do:
not I who robbed.”
“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and
When I was confronted with this story and realized how thankfulness calmed his mind and realigned his faith, I was immediately convicted of areas of negativity in my own thought life and speech that needed to be adjusted. The
supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God” (Ph. 4:6). Six things are accomplished by giving God thanks in this dual way (as illustrated by the following acrostic):
thought kept echoing in my heart, “If Matthew Henry could
T—tames the turmoil of the mind
be that thankful after being robbed literally, then I need to
H—helps the focus of the heart
more passionately express thankfulness when it seems I’ve
A—acknowledges the goodness of God
been robbed—mentally, emotionally, or even physically—by
N—nullifies the influence of the enemy
circumstances of life.
K—kindles the fire of joy unspeakable
unexpected adversities, by the lower nature, by the corrupt world system, by harmful relationships, or even by evil
18 // January 2022
S—sets the stage for miraculous, divine intervention About The Author
“Robbed by who or what?” you may say. Robbed by
Mike Shreve has traveled evangelistically out of Cleveland since 1970. He and his wife, Elizabeth, also pastor “The Sanctuary” and run a Christian publishing company named Deeper Revelation Books. www.shreveministries.org.
Church Activities & Events Dwelling Place Church International 11th Anniversary Celebration With Geron Davis and Kindred Souls Sunday, January 16 | 10AM 523 Urbane Road, Cleveland, TN
Thankful Missionary Baptist Church Men In Prayer
Saturday, January 1 | 8AM - 9AM 980 N Orchard Knob Ave, Chattanooga, TN
Burks United Methodist Church
Children’s Ministry Homeless Collection Sunday, January 9 | 3PM 6433 Hixson Pike, Hixson, TN
Cornerstone Baptist Church The Agee Family
Sunday, January 16 | 11AM 5479 TN-58, Chattanooga, TN
Gò0dNews for Everyone
Forty: Life Starts Here
L
by Paula Burgner
ast year’s words belong to last year’s language,
Wisdom comes once you have gone through hard
and next year’s words await another opportunity
winters. Wisdom is like snow, once it covers the ground it
to impress us. The new year is a fresh start, an
beautifies everything that it touches. In order to appreciate
opportunity to start over again without any judgment, ties,
the beauty of the snowflake, it is necessary to stand out
or baggage. You must learn to treat everything that has
in the cold. Throughout the years, I have gained strength,
happened before today as a rehearsal preparing you for the
wisdom, and respect for this life that I have been given.
journey ahead. Forty is a new decade of adventure that awaits. In life, you don’t stop laughing when you grow old, you grow old when you stop finding the joy in life. Getting older is like a beautiful painting. It is a work of art to be enjoyed, and yet some never get to make it to that gallery of life. Be confident that you are a perfect age. Each year we are given is special and priceless. You will only live this life once. Be comfortable with growing older because age has no barrier, it is just a limitation that you put in your mind. Our faces can say a lot, as they carry all of our memories—some bad and some good. However, we have to keep a good attitude because attitude is the true
I have learned to enjoy this life and take each day with a
measurement of age. Your age is not lost youth but a new
grateful heart.
stage of opportunity for growth to be achieved. You are
We have to remember that with each passing year (do
never too old to set another goal or dream a new dream. Just
not think of it as getting older because age is just a number), we
remember, it is not the years in our life that count, but the
are given the opportunity for a new chance to learn more,
life in those years that makes it all worth wild.
love more, and enjoy this life more. Just as the Bible tells us
The truth is that aging seems to be the only way to live
in 2 Corinthians 5:17, “Therefore if any man be in Christ,
a long life. Most of us are starting to see the wrinkles trying
he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold,
to show up. However, those wrinkles show that you have
all things are become new.” So, with each passing year that
laughed, the grey hair shows you have cared, and the scars
comes around, celebrate that new start to another great year
show that you have lived. The scars we get in this lifetime
in the life that you are given.
can be thought of like a permeant tattoo. Some of them are endured throughout our life.
20 // January 2022
About The Author
from good memories and some are the things that we have Paula Burgner is a very strong willed, outgoing, girl who loves working out, and she believes in her heart that you are capable of doing anything that you put your mind to.
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Gò0dNews for Life
My Dad
T
by Dean Draper
wo years have passed since my dad went home to his Heavenly Father. I find myself reflecting on his life, his influence on me and many others. It would be impossible, within the confines of an article, to capture his life adequately. Many knew him as Glenn Draper. I knew him as “Dad.” I am reminded of the song, “Leader of The Band,” by the recording artist Dan Fogelberg, “My life has been a poor attempt to imitate the man. I’m just a living legacy of the leader of the band.” No one can fill his shoes. When I watched my dad grow old, it was difficult to shake the image of the strong, determined, energetic man I grew up with. But I was able to reflect on a life truly lived. A man who never seemed to waste one moment. When I was a boy, this larger-than-life character was superhuman to me. I didn’t need Batman or Superman; I had my father. Cape or no cape, he was all I needed when adolescence took its difficult turns. He represented my Heavenly Father. He was always there, always encouraging, never absent, never condemning. I still keep a simple reminder of that image. I have an old yearbook from 1976. When I flip through the pages, I come to a picture of me making a shot in an afternoon basketball game at my school. The bleachers are filled with moms, rooting their sons on. In that sea of women, there is one man, my dad, with his fist up in the air, as if he were shouting, “That’s my Boy!!” Why was he there? He should have been at work. He knew some things in life are more important than a career. I never saw my dad raise his voice at my mom. I never wondered if he wouldn’t come home. At 6 p.m. sharp, the kitchen door always opened. He laid his briefcase down and hugged the love of his life. We held hands and prayed over every 8-course meal she prepared. Every Saturday, we were out playing football in our backyard. He was quarterback for both teams, yes, teams of freckle faced boys pretending to be NFL superstars. Once, a testy neighbor complained to my dad about the dirt patch that had become our backyard. All the grass was gone from endless football games. My dad told him, “I’m not raising grass, I’m raising men.” Preach it, Dad! In 1975, my dad boarded a private jet to lead a music conference in Jekyll Island. Two disappointed boys stood
22 // January 2022
by the runway and waved goodbye. Before the plane took off, the door unexpectedly opened. He bristled down the stairs, grabbed my brother and me, and off we flew to the beach with nothing but our church clothes on. What kind of a father does that? It was easy for me to come to Christ at a young age. I saw Him shine through my dad. The Bible describes
our Heavenly Father as “A God of forgiveness, gracious and compassionate, slow to anger, abounding in lovingkindness.” I understood what the Bible meant when it says, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” My dad modeled those promises. When dad’s health started to decline, he would call me almost every day just to talk. The crowds had stopped cheering, and he wasn’t galloping around the globe performing for Presidents and dignitaries. He just wanted to talk with his son. There were times I didn’t answer those calls because I was just too busy. There were times I cut those calls short. Boy, would I love just one more phone call, just to hear his voice. At the end of dad’s life, he didn’t say much. His mind and body were fading. My hero became very human. Jesus was waiting on the other side, but I didn’t want him to leave. Just before he died, I grabbed his bruised hand and muttered, “I love you Dad.” His eyes remained closed, but he said his final words to me, words I never doubted my entire life. “I love you too, son.”
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Gò0dNews for Parents
What A $40 Jogging Stroller Taught Me by Jordan Burchette
I
have been taking advantage of our local greenway each
I stayed in a constant state of fear and panic during
morning after breakfast. I load my two kids in the car and
that time of their lives. What if someone snatched them
head to the park. The walk is peaceful, as the greenway is
up? What if they fell off of the swings or slide? These were
surrounded by thick trees, a gently flowing river, and many
questions that kept me at home, free from danger. Even
beautiful stops along the way, including a duck refuge.
when we were home, I rarely went outside for longer than
It is a perfect way to start one’s day, especially with two
an hour. What if they got mauled by a dog? Or what if
littles full of energy upon waking up each morning. After a
they got hit by a car? Many of the fears were completely
few days of enjoying the local landscape, they started to get
irrational, but I couldn’t see it at that time.
lazy. “We don’t want to walk anymore,” they whined. “My legs hurt,” they grumpily complained. “We just want to go
Isn’t that how life goes? We don’t always see God using those seasons to mold us at the time.
to the park,” they griped. So, in true Type-A fashion, I decided to “kill two birds with one stone.” I would run/ walk while the kids enjoyed the bumpy ride and then finish our morning exercise at the end of the track, where a beautiful playground was conveniently located. A win for all of us! I wanted a basic jogging stroller to run with and scored one on Facebook Marketplace for $40. I arranged a pick-up time with the seller and stuffed the lightly-used stroller into the back of my SUV. We headed towards the park, where I proceeded to fumble with the new stroller for ten minutes until I finally figured out how to use it. Once I finally got the stroller opened, locked, and
Now, several years later, I see how far God has brought
packed full of snacks and water bottles, we took off down
me. Somewhere in the last few years, I woke up and realized
the greenway. I walked for a few minutes to warm my
I wanted to be the mom that went out and really lived life
calve muscles up, and then I took off jogging, pushing
with her kids. I didn’t want to be a slave to fear any longer,
them as I jogged.
nor did I want to pass that fear onto my children. I want
As I was walking, I looked down at both of my kids, and
them to watch me live life even if I am scared. This morning,
my mind immediately returned to a few years ago when
I read my Bible and read about Jesus casting out demons that
we lived in Greenville, South Carolina. Isn’t it strange how
knew and feared Him because they knew who He was and
certain moments trigger memories? Our youngest was a
how powerful He was. Jesus, in the same chapter, rebuked a
baby, and our oldest was probably two or two and a half
storm. That is the God I, and hopefully, you, serve.
when we lived in that beautiful city. I remembered how I mile run/walk on a wooded greenway. I barely went outside in general, to be honest.
24 // January 2022
About The Author
would have never ventured out to take both kids on a three-
Jordan Burchette writes stories to encourage, inspire, and challenge others. When she isn’t writing, she is running her small business, enjoying time with her family, and drinking coffee. You can follow her blog at www.thewordsofjordannoel.com.
Erik Gardner – CEO of Volunteer Rid A Pest LLC announces another acquisition. “We are proud to announce that on October 1st, 2021 Volunteer Rid A Pest has officially merged with Pestaway Corportion and will begin overseeing the day-to-day operation of the business” stated Gardner. Pestaway founders and owners, Troy and Jeanette Donaldson have experienced health issues and are unable to carry on the operation of the business. Their daughter and son, Joyce and Eddie are retiring to care for their elderly parents. “Our company has taken over the day-to-day operation of the business and will make certain to serve our new Pestaway customers well!” said Gardner. “This merger gives our company a stronger reach into McMinn County and solidifies our company as the dominant player in the Athens/McMinn County market!” added Gardner. Volunteer Rid A Pest has been serving Bradley, Hamilton, Meigs, Polk and McMinn counties since 1970. They are a full-service company offering termite control, pest control, moisture control, rodent control, crawl space encapsulation, floor repair, mosquito control and lawn treatments. For more information please call 423-462-2865 or visit their website at www.volpest.com.
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Handyman services through their Handyman
owned termite and pest control company
Hotline division, crawl space moisture control
that was founded by Billy and Carolyn
through their Moisture-Guard division and they
Gardner on April 1, 1970. The company has grown from a “1 man with
provide crawl space encapsulations through their Encapsulation Kings division.
a spray can” operation, to a regional company
“I enjoy this business because it involves
with twenty-eight employees and a 10-county
solving our customer’s problems and protecting
service area.
their homes from damage. We go into a situation
Billy and Carolyn operated the company for
with an upset homeowner with a termite or
thirty-three years until Billy’s death in 2003. At
fungus problem, and when we leave, we have
that time, their son, Erik assumed the day-to-day
handled the problem and made their day better. I
operation of the business.
get a lot of satisfaction from that,” Gardner stated.
As the business grew, more services were
“But more than that, I feel job creation is
added, such as home insulation services
vital to our local community,” stated Gardner.
through their Energy Miser division, mosquito
“Each year, we have thousands of young people
control through their Mosquito-Guard division,
graduating from high school and college that need
26 // January 2022
good-paying jobs here locally. We want to do our part to help fill that need. We plan to hire four more technicians in 2022.” Erik Gardner’s eldest son, Paul Gardner, joined the company in 2016, and his second son, Derek Nichols, joined the company in July 2021. “I have enjoyed working with Paul and watching him learn the business. He is very devoted to his customers and helping solve their problems. I am also enjoying helping Derek get his career started. As a veteran of the United States Air Force, he also has the Service First attitude, which will serve him well,” said Gardner. Gardner also has a 15-year-old son, Tyler. “I’m not sure what path Tyler will take, but I think it will be hard not to want to work alongside his older brothers when that opportunity arises,” said Gardner. Volunteer Rid A Pest’s newest division is Encapsulation Kings, which was formed to address a burgeoning problem in our area—damp crawl spaces. These crawl spaces have too much moisture and this allows the fungus to grow on the wood framing members. This will not only damage the floor system but also create an unhealthy atmosphere due to fungal spores. “By encapsulating the crawl space, we can completely change the environment in the crawl space to be more like the living space above. We will protect the home from expensive damage and the people that live there from allergies and other respiratory issues!” stated Gardner. “We have already helped several local families with this service and look
any questions, visit Volunteer Rid A Pest’s website at www.volpest.com. If you would like to set up an appointment, call Erik Gardner and his staff at (423)-698-7205 or email Gardner at erik@volpest.net. “This business is all about helping solve problems for other people. What a great way to make a living! I plan to do it for as long as I can,” said Gardner.
forward to protecting many more.” Volunteer Rid A Pest’s office is located at 633 Mimosa Drive, Cleveland, TN 37312. If you have
TERMITE & PEST CONTROL goodnewscm.com // 27
Gò0dNews for Everyone
Kicks and Kindness
“B
by Chad Van De Griek
e kind. For everyone you meet is fighting
of the supporters that was walking the aisles began making
a battle you know nothing about”—Ian
his way near me. He reaches out his hand and I assumed
Maclaren (Rev. John Watson).
that he was wanting a random high-five. However, as we
I was at a soccer match on a Saturday night in Nashville.
high-fived, he quickly grabbed my hand and began to pull
I was in the heart of the supporter’s section and the energy
me up to my feet to get me standing with everyone else!
was absolutely electric! The supporters are the dedicated
I was completely caught off guard by this! “No, no, no! I
group of fans who spend the entire match standing, singing,
can’t stand!” My initial panic and fear quickly turned to
cheering, chanting, and helping create such a memorable
laughter as he gently guided me back to my seat. As one
experience for everyone.
could imagine, he began to apologize profusely. I reassured him that everything was okay and that I found the situation to be incredibly funny! I couldn’t help but smile as I sat in my seat and continued to watch the match. It was such a funny moment that I am sure neither of us will forget for a long while. And, to be clear, I’m not mad, or even slightly frustrated with the supporter that wanted to see me standing. I know that he meant no harm! My chair was nowhere near me, so there was no way for him to know about my disability. He was just trying to help me have a fun and memorable time, and he certainly did that! As I think back on that interaction on that Saturday night, it makes me smile. But it also makes me think. The thought that someone could’ve looked
Before I continue, it’s important to set the stage.
at me and not known that I was disabled is incredibly
There are a few people in front of the supporter’s section
intriguing to me! As I meditated on this idea, the quote that
that are leading the group in the songs, chants, and
I emphasized back at the beginning popped into my head.
cheers throughout the match. On top of that, there were
The truth is that we’re all fighting battles that most people
supporters that would walk up and down the aisles to relay
will never get to see. We never truly know how much pain
communication from the leaders in the front to everyone
someone is in or how much effort it took to get out of bed
throughout the section. It’s also important to reiterate
that morning. And just like me sitting at the soccer match,
that everyone in the supporter’s section seemed to be
some people don’t look like the fight that they’ve been in or
standing. Well…not everyone. I, obviously, was seated. My
are presently going through. That is why we should always
wheelchair was at the top of the section and I had gotten out
do our best to be kind and be gracious to those around us. I
of my chair, scooted down the stairs, and eventually got to
believe that it is our kindness and our reflection of Christ’s
the seats that my friends were sitting in.
love that truly makes an impact on people.
match was past the halfway mark and it is at this point in the night where our adventure takes a comedic turn. One
28 // January 2022
About The Author
With all of this in mind, let’s get back to the story. The Chad Van De Griek lives in Nashville, TN! He loves Jesus, hockey (Go Preds), and is a big Bible nerd. Chad was born with Cerebral Palsy and is very passionate about using his writing as a way to show God’s love to everyone! You can find more of his writing at chadvandegriek.wordpress.com.
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
Surrender the Burden
T
by Greg Grotewold
he largest and most beautiful tree in our yard
let Him remind me of who He is and who I am in Him, I
came tumbling down last week. It was felled by an
turn inward. Rather than allow His grace to produce the
early morning windstorm. Though thankful the
benefits outlined in the passage above, I invite the opposite:
descending timber didn’t hit the house and hurt anyone, it
fatigue, insecurity, and fear. At the very moment I need the
took a good day and a half to clear with the chain saw.
Lord the most, I go it alone and face a season of drought.
With the massive pile of branches now hauled away, the only remaining sign of the tree’s existence is one very large
It doesn’t have to be this way. While I don’t know that I will ever “rejoice” when difficulties come, I do pray I will
stump. As I was thinking through how best to dislodge it, I decided to take a little break and calculate the tree’s age. The task wasn’t as easy as I had initially anticipated. While distinct growth separated most of the rings, there were a couple of clusters where only upon closer examination could delineation between the seasons be made. I presume these were difficult years of unusual drought. After counting a couple of times, I estimated the age to be twenty-seven. It wasn’t until later in the day that I began thinking more about the disparity in growth. And as I did, the spiritual parallel jumped out at me. If I were to take my “spiritual trunk” and perform a cross-sectional cut, what would I find? Would the pattern match that of my tree: material
more consistently relinquish them. The few times I in fact
growth during prosperous times and negligible during
have, Jesus met me where I was and unleashed a type of
difficult? Regrettably, I expect it would more times than not.
mercy that was commensurate with the significance of the
If spiritual growth is defined as a deepening hope in
affliction. In doing so, the Lord reminded me that He was
Jesus’s sovereign goodness, Paul pinpoints the source of my
in control and had my best interest in mind. There was no
regret with great precision. “We rejoice in our sufferings,
reason to fret. But, that’s not all. Jesus also ushered in a more
knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance
profound fellowship—one whose intimacy was sweeter than
produces character, and character produces hope, and hope
the hardship was sorrowful. He showered me with affection,
does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been
producing a hope that permeated the pain.
poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us” (Romans 5:3-5, ESV).
May I readily surrender my burdens to Jesus and avail myself of His sovereign goodness.
forfeited significant blessing. Rather than take the pain to Jesus and let Him instill a sense of peace, I run. Rather than
30 // January 2022
About The Author
I have too often wasted my suffering and in the process Greg Grotewold lives in Oakdale, MN, with his wife, Sandi, and their two sons, Luke and Eli. He is a deacon in his local church and greatly enjoys serving in this capacity.
Gò0dNews for Grandparents
The Arrival by Wayne Williams
32 // January 2022
said, “When a woman is giving birth, she has pain, because her hour has come. But as soon as she delivers the child, she no longer remembers the anguish for joy that a child is born into the world” (John 16:21, MEV). Even now, I don’t know who is more relieved that this gestation cycle has come full term—me, my wife, or the baby’s parents. Certainly, the mother, our daughter. And yet, with serious consideration for her humorously stated, one would have thought our son-in-law gave birth!
Proclamation. Lastly, exclaiming to family and friends that we are grateful, proud, and finally “grandparents” is the only thing that outweighs the narrative of the delivery itself. Similarly, as believers in the Lord Jesus Christ, you and I have the duty, as did the early shepherds, to “[make] known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child” (Luke 2:17). As the expectation continues to evolve, the anticipation has ended, and the celebration has been ignited. All that remains is the perpetual proclamation. “But greater still the calm assurance [that] this child [as well as you and I] can face uncertain days because He lives!” concludes the verse of the beloved song penned by the famous songwriter Bill Gaither. Happy New Year everybody and make the most of its “arrival!” About The Author
“H
ow sweet to hold a newborn baby and feel the pride and joy he brings.” What celebratory words to calmly exclaim “the arrival” of an innocent newbie into an everchanging world, both indicative of God’s creative genius. Recently, my wife and I had the glorious experience to “hold” our newborn grandbaby. It is the first for us, and obviously the first child for her parents, our daughter Brittany, and her husband Dennis. I am happy to report that both mother and baby are healthy, and all are doing well at the present time. After years of hearing from our contemporaries, my wife and I now know why they are called “grand” children. Yes, because they are truly “Grand!” Following the highly festive holidays of Thanksgiving and Christmas while reflecting on our familial addition caused me to think more spiritually about what it means to have a new arrival. I have concluded that there is a beyond reasonable degree of expectation, anticipation, celebration, and proclamation. Expectation. And what are God’s expectations of me? Well, the prophet radically posted the same question and likewise submitted a transformative response when he declared, “And what does the Lord require of you? Only this: to do what is right, to show mercy, and to walk humbly with your God” (New Catholic Bible). Yes, my wife and I, as well as “Baby K’s” parents, have a proverbial laundry list of expectations of her. Likewise, and you can be sure she has and will well over into teen years, have expectations of them and us! Anticipation. After nine months of prayer, patience, and endless preparation, she, this bundle of joy, made her arrival. But not without much anticipation. The Bible provides numerous scripture references that infer Christ’s coming into the world, Genesis 3:15; Isaiah 7:14; 9:6; Matthew 1:21-23; Luke 1:26-33, to name a few. But it is Galatians 4:4 that addresses the anticipation question when the apostle Paul stated, “But when the fullness of time came, God sent forth His Son, born from a woman, born under the law” (Modern English Version). Celebration. And what would the birth of a newborn be without some rejoicing and sighs of relief? Jesus, Himself
Wayne & Lita Williams are residents of Athens, Tennessee. She is a retiring social worker. He presently serves as a local supply pastor. Together, they have been in pastoral and outreach ministry for over 40 years.
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
Picking Up the Pieces by Dorothy Teague
B
ack in the ‘70s, I sang with my sisters in
my life was shattered and as I stood looking at all the
churches all across East Tennessee and there
brokenness, the only thing I knew to do was to give
was a popular song that we sang called
it to God to help me start again in my journey. We
“Broken Pieces.” Its popularity was gained because
all make bad choices and stray from the path that He
people from all walks of life could easily identify
wants us to be on. We live in a fallen world and fall
with it, as we have all been broken at one time or
victim to making decisions based on how we feel,
another. One night we stopped at a favorite restaurant
rather than what the Word tells us we should do.
that had a piano in the back dining room, and our
James 1:5 says, that “If any of you lacks wisdom, he
friend, who was a great pianist, was there. At his
should ask God, who gives generously to all without
urging to sing, we gathered around the old piano and
finding fault, and it will be given to him.” There
enjoyed harmonizing on many old favorites. Then,
are tragedies that we bring on ourselves, as well as
our friend began singing this song. I had never felt the
those that happen to us which are caused by others.
Holy Spirit so strongly in this song before. The Spirit
Illnesses, divorces, loss of careers, and death are all
was so overwhelming, I began weeping. Little did I
part of the human condition. But in every situation, we
know the battle he was having in his own life at that
must pick up the broken pieces and hand them to God
time. He was living every word of that song.
so that He can set everything right again.
There have been many times when
God never promised our lives would be easy nor the journey smooth, but what He DID promise is that He will never leave us or forsake us (Deuteronomy 31:6). Sometimes our lives are going to be like a shattered windowpane, with the fragments laying at our feet. But God can put the pieces of our lives back together in a brand-new way, creating a beautiful mosaic from our miserable mess. With His mercy and grace, we become a “work of heart,” His heart, a masterpiece of His design. All He requires is that we ask His forgiveness for our mistakes and, as the last line of the song goes, “just place the broken
34 // January 2022
About The Author
pieces at the Savior’s feet.”
Dorothy Teague is a Tennessee native, who resides in McMinn County with her husband, Lewis, on their farm. After completing 31.5 years as a teacher in the Bradley County School System, she is active in her church at Eastanallee Baptist Church where she is a member of the choir and praise team.
Gò0dNews Business Spotlight
Hyderhangout: Quilt Fabric & More
N
ot only do we have quilting supplies, we have
You can buy, sell, and trade. We take in your “leftovers”
many sewing, crafting, beading, and art items
for store credit. We buy bags of fabric scraps by the pound.
in stock with a variety that is just plain fun to
We have bought from estate sales and other clearance places
look through. We even have a cozy corner for those who
in the past. Don’t discard or give away those unwanted
want to “sit this one out.” Visit with us, tells us about your
pieces before you see what we can do for you; this is how
latest or next project, and look around. We have lots of
we get many “lost” and vintage fabrics for our customers.
nooks and crannies to hunt for treasures. There are lots of
Remember the old adage, “One man’s trash is another man’s
out-of-print fabrics, unusual items, and discounted items.
treasure”? We just might have the lost fabric for which
Please ask us to show you our Clearance Room too! We can
you have been searching. We work with over six charities
make alterations, including a staff with bridal and beading
through clubs that meet in our shop. If we cannot see our
experience. Men’s suits needing tailoring? We do that too!
way to purchase from you, we can get your unwanted
We have embroidery, applique, and lettering services. We do
materials to someone who does.
Greek lettering and sports team lettering. Our Motto: We are Sew thankful to be of service to you. We treat our customers in the friendliest manner we can. All customers are important and kindness is number one. Customers are not just customers, but potential friends or “Hangouters.” We are here to share our love for quilting, crafts, needlework, and fiber arts. We are here to help others in their journey in this endeavor. We are here to teach, encourage, and expedite education of our craft to all who enter here. We accept all who enter our doors at the level they are
We’ve had an eBay store since 2007. We then moved to
at and skills they have. No one is too much of a beginner or
selling on another site in early 2008. In June 2009, we started
too skilled for us to try to help in any way we can. Need a
a small “brick ‘n mortar” store. We quickly outgrew that
skill taught or a class on a subject? Let us know! We will do
space (much to our surprise and delight) and decided it
our best to set up a class or arrange one-on-one instruction.
was time to move, which landed us in our first location in
Check out our calendar under the Happenings section at
Historical Downtown Cleveland, TN, in November 2009. In
www.hyderhangout.com. If you cannot find something there,
less than a year, Hyderhangout outgrew that spot, and in
contact us and we may have it in the works or can make it
November 2010 moved to the First Street Square in the Five
happen for you.
Points Museum District. Hyderhangout is located at 219 1st
Special orders are welcome. We all know the reality that no store can carry everything. But we are willing to sit down with you, discuss your ideas, and do our best to locate exactly what you’re looking for and get it for you. We carry so many brands of fabric on the premises but we can order all. You are the reason we are in business, and it is you we want to serve.
36 // January 2022
St NE, Cleveland, TN 37311. If you have any questions, you can call Hyderhangout at (423)-715-2908.
Gò0dNews for Everyone What Happens When Pastors Pray…Together by Larry Lane
“L
ord, you have hit my reset button again in regards to
didn’t know (or at least not very well) and with some we
the priority of prayer in my schedule. The important
didn’t like, to do heaven knows what?
things of praying and preaching the Word are again
That certainly was the sentiment of the sixty-five pastors
the very top of the list. I thank you for deepening the Lord among
that gathered at Lake Tahoe for our first summit in 1993.
the brothers, and reminding me that we are all on the same
We might have been reluctant to attend, but God wasn’t. It
team.”—Winchester, VA
changed our lives. We continued to have summits for the
“I have drawn closer to the Lord. I have stood on Holy
next twenty-five-plus years until I moved here to Cleveland,
Ground. I have been enlivened by the power of the Holy Spirit
TN. We learned something in those days. Mary and Joseph
working through the Body of Christ. This Prayer Summit has
lost the boy Jesus while attending temple worship, and we
re-connected me to the source of my life and ministry. I have been
pastors, as well, can lose Jesus while doing church. Seeking
renewed. I believe that we will never be the same again. Not only
the Lord and seeking the Lord together as leaders got
have I been empowered, but the Church, the Body of Christ, in the Northwest has been empowered. How awesome it is to know that I am not doing this alone!”—NW American Baptist Over thirty years ago, Joe Aldrich, then president of Multnomah Bible College, had an intriguing thought: What would happen if pastors from their city, but from different churches, got away and spent time seeking the Lord with no agenda? First, would any pastor make time to try such a crazy thing, and would God do anything if we left the agenda to Him? Joe used his favor and influence and pastors from Portland, Oregon, did just that for four days.
lost somewhere in our pursuit of ministerial success. We
Their lives and Joe’s ministry would be forever changed.
discovered that God was very interested in meeting with us,
As a result, God birthed a new ministry, Norwest Renewal
speaking to us, to melt our hearts and tear down our walls—
Ministries, and a movement that came to be known as
if we just gave time and room to work. What began as an
pastors’ prayer summits, spread across the nation and globe.
uncertain risk became an anticipated adventure.
In an age of over-burdened schedules, pastors have
On February 7-9, the pastors of Bradley County are
had to become very judicious with their time, only leaving
getting away for their first prayer summit. Key pastors from
their flock for seminars and conferences sure to help them
various churches in Cleveland are sponsoring this event.
become more effective pastors and grow their churches.
I am asking you, the reader, to pray for this time. And if
Having served as a lead pastor in small and large churches,
you attend a local church here in Bradley County, ask your
I remember well the flood of advertisements for conferences,
pastor if he is attending. Email me and I can send you more
seminars, and denominational gatherings that would
information. God is going to meet with these pastors. If He
challenge my limited time. The demands of the congregation
touches them, it will impact your church and mine. And if
always left me feeling like work was never completed.
our churches are impacted, it could transform our county.
investment. So why would I, or other pastors, subject ourselves and our schedules to three days with pastors we
38 // January 2022
About The Author
If I would go to any conference, it had to be worth the Larry Lane is the CEO of the Sentinel Group, producer of award-winning Christian documentaries. He moved to Cleveland with his wife Carol in May of 2020. You can reach Larry at larry@kingdomc.org.
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
A New Start
2
by Brian Johnson
022. A new year and a new start. The new year always brings a time of reflection and evaluation. We think about our regrets, the things we want to
change, and the new person we want to be. The great thing about our relationship with God is that we can make those changes anytime. Proverbs 24:16 says, “For a just man falleth seven times, and riseth up again: but the wicked shall fall into mischief.” What I love about that verse is God knows we’re going to mess up. Even a just person is going to fall. “He remembereth that we are dust,” (Psalms 103:14). The problem isn’t the falling; the problem is when we stay down. I’m a big sports fan. My favorites are football and baseball. In football, there’s a position called defensive back. These players usually defend receivers one on one or, if you’re sports challenged, they try to stop other players from catching the ball when the quarterback throws it to them. Sometimes defensive backs will give up a big play. It’s part of playing that position. It’s going to happen from
sin among you, let him first cast a stone of her” (John 8:7).
time to time but if they dwell on the mistake, it will affect
After all of the men dropped their stones, Jesus told her to
the next play.
“go, and sin no more.”
When we mess up as Christians and stay down, it
David committed murder and adultery and he was
prevents God from being able to use us as affectively in the
called a man after God’s own heart. He’s also mentioned in
next situation or for the next person we meet that needs to
Christ’s genealogy in Matthew and Luke.
hear the Gospel. Don’t listen to the lies of Satan: you’re not good enough,
Paul, when he was Saul, persecuted and jailed Christians. He presided over the stoning of Stephen, and
God won’t forgive you, you could never come back from
God made him the apostle to the Gentiles. He wrote a
what you’ve done. Remember what Jesus said about the
large portion of the New Testament and took the Gospel to
Devil, “…there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie,
Europe. There are many examples!
he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar and the father of it” (John 8:44).
There’s nothing wrong with evaluations and resolutions. Just know, as long as you’re still breathing, God can, will,
Listen to the truth of God: you’re forgiven, you’re loved, if
and wants to use you, no matter what you’ve done. Get up,
you’re saved, you’re still His child and, according to Titus 1:2,
move forward. God’s not taking you out of the game. Don’t
God cannot lie.
take yourself out.
caught in the act of adultery. There were several men standing ready to stone her. Jesus said, “He that is without
40 // January 2022
About The Author
There’s a well-known story about a woman that was
Brian Edward Johnson is a deacon at his church and a nurse by vocation. He wants to do the best he can to teach people to trust God, for their eternity and for each day.
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Gò0dNews for your Taste Buds
The Best Flourless Chocolate Cake
T
by Pam Wattenbarger
his gluten-free recipe takes some time to prepare but the decadent chocolate taste is worth the wait! Use good quality chocolate chips for the best
results. Plan to make the cake in advance, as it needs to set for at least six hours before serving.
Ingredients • 1 ½ cups dark chocolate chips • 2 sticks butter, softened • 6 eggs, at room temperature • 1 cup sugar • ½ cup water • 1 tablespoon cornstarch • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract • ½ teaspoon salt • Whipped cream, optional • Chocolate shavings, optional
Instructions 1. Preheat the oven to 275 degrees. 2. In a medium microwave-safe bowl, add the chocolate and the butter. Heat for 1 minute at 50% power. Stir. Return to the microwave and heat for 1 to 2 more minutes, stirring after each minute, until the chocolate is melted. Set aside to cool for 5 minutes. 3. In a large bowl, mix together the eggs, sugar, water, cornstarch, vanilla extract and salt until blended. 4. Stir the chocolate mixture into the egg mixture. 5. Spray a springform pan with cooking spray. Pour the chocolate mixture into the pan. Leave the pan on the countertop for 10 minutes to allow air bubbles to rise to the top. Gently pop any air bubbles with a fork. 6. Bake the cake for 45 to 50 minutes. The edges should be set, but the center of the cake should still jiggle. 7. Let the cake cool for 20 to 30 minutes. Place the cake in the refrigerator for at least 6 hours or overnight until it is set.
42 // January 2022
About The Author
8. Before serving, top each piece with whipped cream and chocolate shavings, if desired.
Pam Wattenbarger is the author of The New Southern Cookbook: Classic Family Recipes and Modern Twists on Old Favorites & The Southern Air Fryer Cookbook. Find her recipes and more at SimplySouthernMom.com.
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
Head In the Clouds by Katie Loveless
I
t had already been a hectic morning of preparing for the day
so much so that it was deemed necessary to start over.
amid cloudy skies. I was on my third stop when I caught a
Thus, demolition ensued after the storm to create space for
glimpse of something glorious along my familiar commute.
something new and improved.
The terrain is familiar, though changed over the last few years
Isn’t that what starting over is all about? I am encouraged
by an unexpected tornado followed by efforts to rebuild. In
to remember that our Maker was willing to start over just as He
fact, a local Christian school known as Grace was leveled in the
did with Noah, his family, and all the creatures spared in the
tornado’s aftermath. In this place where Grace was decimated,
ark. If God is willing to start over, won’t you?
terrific rebuilding is underway. This is the backdrop for a glorious rainbow I caught a
Just because something in your life looks different than what you feel God has promised, it doesn’t make His promises
glimpse of. It was stunning and breathtaking as it arched directly over the established architecture framing the rebuild. It vibrantly contrasted the pastel blue hues of the sky behind. I heard myself utter out loud, “Amazing.” Without a second thought, I opted to pull over and take a picture. However, in the short time of pulling over and turning around, the rainbow had vanished just as quickly as it appeared. Bewildered, I looked around and noticed the sun, which had shone gloriously just moments before, was now covered by a dense cloud. Like a child with an unfulfilled wish, I massaged my disappointment. I resigned myself to the drive ahead and began my journey at the stop sign intersecting with the view of Grace under construction. Just
any less true. His promises remain even if your circumstances
as quickly as the rainbow had appeared, I sensed the Lord
seem to overshadow them like a cloud. He is still faithful and
speaking to my heart with a question. Just because you can no
He is still good.
longer see it, does it make it any less true? Indeed, the rainbow and the promise it represents are both
For me personally, I struggle with wrecked remains of what has been and wonder what will be. The necessary
true. The rainbow is a momentary reminder that God won’t
prospect of starting over is daunting to me. God has been so
flood the entire earth again. Isn’t that a glorious promise amid
gracious to reconcile my questioning with the knowledge of His
cloudy skies when you have been pelted by the rain? Isn’t it
rescue. In His mercy, I get to start over and rebuild because He
salve to your soul to comprehend that every season of suffering
is far too kind to let me inhabit something that isn’t structurally
has its end? God isn’t interested in your total annihilation; He’s
sound. I’m reminded, it isn’t so much about what has been but
actually interested in your construction.
more about what will be.
You may be thinking that the grace for your life has just
And beloved, even amid cloudy skies, there are brighter
been decimated. Let me encourage you dear one, grace is
days ahead. It very well may be worthwhile to walk around
taking shape. His grace for your life is under construction.
with your head in the clouds.
not level the school. The structural integrity of the original campus was compromised by the severity of the storm,
44 // January 2022
About The Author
This is a great time for me to mention that the tornado did
Katie Loveless is a social worker, wife, and mother of five boys. She is a student of grace who enjoys writing, gardening, and empowering others to pursue stability. Katie is also the author of arisetoo.blogspot.com.
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
The Joy of January
T
by Sandra Gilmore
here’s a joy in January like no other month. Have you noticed that January, unlike other months,
has its own rhythm? Other months seem to adapt to
In fact, Scripture confirms this slower cadence of January and winter. In the Book of Job, we hear Elihu describing what the Lord set in motion: “He says to the snow, ‘Fall to the earth,’ and to the
schedules, wrap around agendas, even become the perfect
rain shower, ‘Be a mighty downpour.’ So that everyone He has
backdrop for gatherings or community events. Not January. This
made may know His work, He stops all people from their labor”
one-twelfth-of-the-year insists on having its own way.
(Job 37:6-7).
January can send a pop-up snowstorm in its sleep. It can
Isaiah connects winter’s snow with the Word of the Lord: “As
welcome balmy temps with open arms and then send them
the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return
packing as though their reservations ran out. January can embrace
to it without watering the earth and making it bud and flourish, so
ice as quickly as a diva dons diamonds.
that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater, so is my
So how is that joyful?
Word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty,
Not only does this month usher in the start of a new year,
but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for
January ushers in a cadence that’s unmistakable. Just about the time other voices are steadily and loudly raising cries to get
which I sent it” (Isaiah 55: 10-11). Psalms echoes that same process: “He spreads the snow like
motivated, gear up, and get stuff done, this top-of-the-year month’s
wool and scatters the frost like ashes. He hurls down his hail like
message whispers softly like snowfall. And like snowfall, there’s
pebbles. Who can withstand his icy blast? He sends his Word and
quite enough evidence that it’s on the scene. Snow’s blanket
melts them; he stirs up his breezes, and the waters flow” (Psalm
covers a multitude of sins—such as the front flowerbeds that
147: 16-18). As January escorts us to another trip around the
didn’t get weeded or the back deck that didn’t get painted in the
sun, how will you enjoy this winter? Ecclesiastes declares: “For
busy summer. Snow transforms the landscape into a white canvas
everything there is a season and a time for every purpose under
perfect for winter colors. There’s the ruby cardinal who flitters
heaven” (Ecclesiastes 3:1).
about finding both a perch and a provisional morsel. The emerald
Research hints at and even shows several benefits: We sleep
pines stand stoically with their evergreen branches. With the help
better in the colder months (or even in a colder room throughout
of the sun, the snow and ice explode with color, tiny prisms that
the year). With better rest, cold temperatures, and a slower pace,
turn loose grounded rainbows. There’s no doubt, a different season
our minds yield more creative ideas. We humans tend to postpone
is on the scene.
decisions or milestones in the summer, so winter could become the
In past centuries, society went by the Roman calendar which held 10 months, leaving winter or an extended “January” as one season with no delineated months. Romans considered winter a
season to work through projects or tackle obligations. What will you tackle? Or maybe, will you simply listen to the snow fall?
About The Author
time of peace without deliberate effort in agriculture or war.
46 // January 2022
Sandra Gilmore serves the Lord as wife, mom, and encourager, mostly through writing and speaking, occasionally through cooking, rarely through anything athletic and only because of the mercy and grace of Jesus. You can reach her by email: tandsgilmore@yahoo.com or her website www.sandragilmore.org.
Gò0dNews for Everyone
Jesus Our Faithful Friend
P
by Jonathon Wright
roverbs 18:24, “A man who has friends must himself
As the New Year continues to roll in, why not take some
be friendly, but there is a friend who sticks closer
time to spend with our best friend? Pray for God’s wisdom.
than a brother” (NKJV).
Keep Him in your life and plans. Listen to what His Word
My first friend was Chad, but I made the mistake of
and the Holy Spirit have to say. Many times, I have prayed,
telling him some private things, and he spilled the beans to
and a thought popped into my mind. This has happened so
everyone. So, I decided that I needed a more dependable
many times that I have confidence in talking to Him about
friend. Casper, the friendly ghost, was his name. We did not
everything. He truly has been a friend that sticks closer than
have a long friendship because I grew up and realized imaginary ghosts were not good friends. He wasn’t very friendly and never said a word. I did all the talking. As a kid, I did not know any better. Of course, that was long before the Lord came into my life. Jesus has been more reliable than Chad when I tell Him private things. The next friend that comes to mind is Michael, who befriended me in my high school days. We went everywhere together. For a time, I spent more time at his house than at home. He reintroduced me to God and Christ. Of course, he grew up and moved away. He went off to the military after high school, and I lost track of him. The day he left, I caught myself crying. He was the first true friend I had. Even though I lost
a brother. He has also used others, and I am so thankful for
a great friend, the Lord would be there to help me through
the many other friends He has blessed me with.
some rough times growing up. I am thankful for the Lord sending me a wife who knew
This passage also reminds us that good friendships are reciprocal. God blesses us with friendships when we are
some of my deepest secrets and still chose to love me. My
kind and friendly to others. We also can further express our
wife could not help me with some of the personal problems
thanks to God by giving kindness and love to other people
I experienced. Oh, she was a rock, but God continued to
in the same way He loved us. See John 17 and think about
love me to wholeness. I went through seasons where I was
our Lord’s words in this chapter. Jesus proved His love for
not serving Him, but He called me back and continues to
us and calls us to be kind and befriend others. I can see Jesus
call me back. He loved me despite it all. When I was at my
smiling when we do.
See Isaiah 54:4. Absolute forgiveness and restoration of our relationship was a priceless gift.
48 // January 2022
About The Author
worst, He told me not to remember the shame of my youth. Jonathon Wright currently lives in Cleveland, Tennessee, and has been a member of the Church of God for about twenty years. He is a graduate of Lee University and Beacon University where he earned a BA and MA in Biblical Studies. He loves studying the Bible and has done so for over thirty years, but only now has God given him a desire and the opportunity to be a writer. He is currently beginning the process of writing a book on Genesis entitled, God’s Good Prophetic Plan: From Beginning to End.
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Gò0dNews Poetry
Soar With the Eagles by Judy Hood
As you walk through this life, grab it by the horns You need to learn that from the day you are born The days go by so fast they will just pass you by And before you know it, you’ll be old with a sigh So, live your life, live it well, soar with the eagles, fly high Tap into your talents, don’t let the naysayers be your demise God has filled us with so much talent, if we just look deep within our soul We’ll learn who we are, we’ll find our life’s goal When you find your goal run with it, don’t ever look back To reach the pinnacle in your endeavors don’t ever slack Your reward is waiting over on the horizon When you achieve that, the sun will be a rising So, get up each morning, live your life to the full Always remember to live by the Golden Rule 50 // January 2022
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