May 2021

Page 1

Gò0dNews May 2021

Complimentary

Christian Magazine

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CLEVELAND

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About Us WRITERS

Andrew Lee Bekah Prytherch Beth Maxwell Brenda Dedmon Charles Finney Dorothy Teague Filip Brunner Heather Tate Jack Borders Jessica Mathis Kristen West Melissa Phillips Paula Burgner Paul McGuire Precious Lou May Dr. Rob Debelak Sandra Gilmore Stephanie Shrum Tamara Clark

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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,

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Contents M AY 2 0 2 1

GoodNews from the Pastor’s Desk

6 Well, Well!

by Dr. Rob Debelak

GoodNews for Teens

8 About God, Not About Me by Filip Brunner

GoodNews on Money Matters

10 If You Build the Process, the Goal will Come

by Andrew Lee GoodNews for Men

12 Giants In The Land—The Empty Chair

by Jack Borders GoodNews for Women

14 Strength of A Woman by Jessica Mathis

GoodNews for Everyone

18 Qualities About Our Heavenly Father

by Paul McGuire GoodNews for Everyone

20 Freedom In Christ by Precious Lou May

GoodNews Poem

22 Awakening

by Tamara Clark

GoodNews for Parents

24 A Mother’s Faith

by Brenda Dedmon

GoodNews Cover Story

26 Jason Wright

GoodNews for Everyone

28 Our Ebenezers by Beth Maxwell

GoodNews for Everyone

30 Consider

by Charles Finney

GoodNews on Motherhood

32 Three Things My Kids Taught Me

by Stephanie Shrum GoodNews on Hope

34 Hope In Loss

12

by Melissa Phillips

GoodNews Business Spotlight

36 Smoothie King

GoodNews for Grandparents

38 Some Benefits of A Grandparent

by Kristen West GoodNews for Everyone

40 Battles

by Paula Burgner

GoodNews for your Taste Buds

26

42 Chicken Bake

by Bekah Prytherch

GoodNews for Everyone

44 A Heart Condition by Dorothy Teague

GoodNews for Everyone

46 Afraid To Try

by Heather Tate

GoodNews for Everyone

50 Church Is Not A Building by Sandra Gilmore

50


Gò0dNews from the Pastor’s Desk

Well, Well!

R

by Dr. Rob Debelak

eference abounds to Jacob’s twelve sons; in lesser limelight

the request itself a precursor to addressing weightier matters of

is his one daughter—Dinah. This Old Testament girl’s story

spirituality (vv. 10-15).

is brief and troubling but significant in forming a backdrop

Each woman lived in times fraught with devotional rivalry.

for Jesus’ redemptive conversation with a New Testament

In Dinah’s world, competing worship practices framed the day:

Samaritan woman.

Jacob’s altar for God contrasted Canaanite paganism (Genesis 33:20),

Following a family reunion (Genesis 33:1-17), Jacob settles near the

and later, religious differences from the Divided Kingdom period

Canaanite town of Shechem (Genesis 33:18-20). On the city’s outskirts

pit an unsanctioned Samaritan temple against Jerusalem’s official

(v. 18), he camps near a water source sufficient for his livestock (v. 17;

sanctuary (John 4:20). “Unclean” by heritage and faith, numerous

John 4:12). Time lapses. The adventurous Dinah sets out, intent on visiting local girls her own age (34:1), and calamity strikes. Akin to phrasing in the garden incident (Genesis 3), a prominent young man of the area saw her, took her, and defiled her (34:2). Dinah’s painful ordeal compounds in her father’s lack of immediate comment (34:5); the offending family’s desperate negotiations (34:3-4, 6, 8-12); her siblings’ seething rage (34:7); and the clandestine conniving of city members (34:18-23). Two of Dinah’s brothers retaliate in bloody retribution (34:25-29). Everyone has their ideas for dealing with Dinah’s situation; notable in this charged scene, though, is that only men take action or do the talking— Dinah is essential but without voice. She may have told what happened (v. 5), but readers never hear her. Overshadowed by other

relationships suggest a checkered past (v. 18): like Jacob’s daughter,

conversations, Dinah is practically muted and nearly erased. From

the Samaritan woman is “defiled.”

the city periphery to social stigma, she is unduly marginalized. Genesis 34 thus describes a young woman leaving familiar

Earlier in Canaan, devious men bargained for Dinah with ulterior motives—depersonalized, she is like property bid on—they

safety (home and well) who takes an unchaperoned journey,

negotiate for her, not with her. Genesis 34 ends in the massacre of

meets a man (who treats her horribly), and quietly recedes from

the town’s men. Jesus, however, reasons peaceably and personally

deliberations over her future. Readers are left with unresolved

with a nameless Samaritan woman, requesting only a little water.

concerns, seeking answers to tough questions posed by harsh

Her past is no barrier to her future. Retaining choice and voice, she

events. Centuries pass. Later, John’s Gospel revisits the vicinity

is valued. Her resulting transformation is so significant that she

with remarkable differences! This time, an obscure, socially

testifies her positive experience (4:28-29); the good news spreads,

disenfranchised woman leaves a city, arrives at a well, and meets a

and people go out to the well where Jesus waits (4:30). Modeling

man (who treats her with dignity). He dialogues with her, genuinely

the example of treasuring others, the Master overcomes obstacles to

loving her (and her people) into the Kingdom! This story reversal

genuine faith. Her encounter with Messiah (4:25-26) sees an entire

resolves with salvation and joy!

city spared; grace prevails for women and men alike (4:39-42)!

Jesus walks territory often avoided by pilgrims traveling

I wish Dinah had never suffered; I value her, in no way trivializing what she endured. While difficult questions linger, I

by the patriarchs (Abraham, Genesis 12:6; Jacob, Genesis 33:18).

appreciate that her story intersects with the larger redemptive story,

Jesus reaches Sychar (John 4:5-6, 12; “Shechem” or close by),

helping me sense God’s hope in dealing with tragedy over time. It

stationing Himself near water. An unaccompanied woman arrives

may well be that Jesus made a specific trip to that same region—a

to draw from the well (John 4:7), and Jesus initiates conversation.

place known for pain—to spotlight the unprecedented power of

Her chiding (4:9) exposes tension (Jews vs. Samaritans); where

divine love.

previous challenges may justify suspicion (Nehemiah’s era), Jesus dissolves racial prejudice in a simple entreaty for water (John 4:7-9):

6 // May 2021

About The Author

to and from Jerusalem. His route (John 4:4) reflects paths trod

Dr. Rob Debelak is associate professor of Bible in Lee University’s Online Program. He has taught at Lee University for 25 years, and is a veteran of the U.S. Air Force. He and his family reside in Cleveland, TN.


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Gò0dNews for Teens

About God, Not About Me

W

by Filip Brunner

hat is life about? “But as for me, how good it is to be near God! I have made the Sovereign Lord my

shelter, and I will tell everyone about the wonderful things you do” (Psalm 73:28). Life is not about the fears and uncertainty and unending violence of the present day. Psalm 73:28 echoes the final words of Joshua: “And if it seem evil unto you to serve the Lord, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other

side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” The psalmist understood, just as Joshua did, that life is meaningless outside of the protection, love, and guidance of the Sovereign Lord. God is sovereign in several ways. The fact that God is the creator of the universe is certainly proof enough. But we need not look any further than the Fatherhood of God to understand exercises His sovereignty over us. The truth is that being in the hands of God should offer us the comfort we need to get us through life. 1. It is good to be near God. The psalmist understood the comfort that nearness to God offers. 2. The psalmist made God his shelter. When the storms of life beat against the side of the tempestdriven boat, we can take comfort in knowing that Jesus is asleep in the back of the ship. 3. The psalmist wants everyone to know how good and powerful and trustworthy his God is. Notice that I said HIS GOD: Is God your God? If He is not, would you consider the offer of eternal life He gives? “I will take the cup of salvation, and call upon the name of the Lord” (Psalm 116:13). “For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved” (Romans 10:13). All of these benefits of God are only available to

8 // May 2021

the children who have been adopted into the family of God by the blood of His Son Jesus Christ who offered one sacrifice, once for all. “This world is not my home, I’m just a-passing through, my treasure is laid up somewhere beyond the blue.” So goes the Gospel song. The Bible calls the trouble we suffer in this present world not to be compared to the blessings of heaven. This world is passing away, and just like Abraham, we look for a country made by God. We would be encouraged if we echoed Joshua when he said, “…as for me and my house, we WILL serve the Lord.” Remember that none of these troubles of our world will mean anything once God makes all things new. Be comforted that it is about God and not about you; walk with Jesus today. About The Author

and appreciate the tenderness and fairness in which God

Filip Brunner is married to his wife, Dr. Kim Brunner and together they have six children. He is a writer, author, and artist.


Dusty Clayton

Dusty Clayton is a licensed REALTOR in the state of Tennessee and Georgia. She was born and raised in Chattanooga/Cleveland area. She is the mom of two beautiful daughters and is married to her wonderful husband of almost 20 years. They attend North Cleveland Church of God where she works as the Administrative Assistant to the children’s pastor and serves in the kid’s ministry. Having 20+ years of experience assisting 3 generations in her family’s construction business gives her the knowledge to better serve you and your family with your real estate needs. The interest in real estate came from growing up around it, but the reason to pursue a career came from her testimony. She understands life happens and this motivator helps her clients overcome obstacles so their dream becomes a reality. Her goal is to create a positive and stress free experience during this important journey.

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If You Build the Process, the Goal will Come 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.

I

n the 1989 movie Field of Dreams, this famous line has

retirement accounts, savings account, and other investment

survived in our popular culture: “If you build it, they

accounts. (5) Wake up at least 15 minutes earlier every

will come.” Often, especially at the start of each new

morning this week in order to read 2-3 pages (or listen

year, we will make a list of goals we hope to achieve in the

to podcasts or audiobooks) to increase your financial

coming year. We all know that the two most common goal

knowledge. (6) Make a list of people in your community

categories for Americans every year are to lose weight/get in

whom you admire for how they handle their finances, and

shape, and to manage our money better in the coming year.

then get to know these people. Take them out for coffee

These goals are our destinations, where we hope to end up.

and pick their brain about how they became financially

But what about the process involved to get us to our goals?

successful, and ask them for advice on how you can do

Our time, energy, and thoughts should be invested in the

the same. (7) Set “alerts” on your cell phone to remind you

process rather than the goal. If you build the process (and

every morning of these crucial steps in your process so you

follow it consistently), the goal will come.

don’t forget and so you don’t become complacent—keep

Try this: once you have made your list of long-term goals (where you want to be and what you want your life

moving forward! Once you have the steps in your process—for our

to look like), make a list of practical, daily and weekly steps

purpose, the process is daily and weekly action on

you can take to move you closer to your end goal. (Notice

improving our personal finances—now it’s time to actualize,

I recommend daily and weekly steps rather than monthly

realize, Midas-size, and energize by doing these steps daily

steps—if you perform these steps day by day and week by

and weekly without fail—drowsy or alert, stressed or

week, then the monthly and yearly goals will take care of

relaxed—no excuses. By following the steps in your process

themselves. It’s inevitable!) For instance, your list of steps

and focusing daily on completing these steps, your goals

might include the following: (1) Make a written budget of

will be met over time, logically and inevitably, as the end

expenses and income for this week. (2) Open all your bills

result of your process. Most people (if they bother to write

(mail) and write down how much you owe this week and

down personal goals at all), put their list of goals on the

when the bills are due. (3) Open your banking statement

mirror or fridge and glance at the list from time to time until

(or check it on your cell phone app) and balance your

the day arrives when they admit they’re making no progress

checkbook so you know accurately how much money you

and throw away the list, vowing to make another list of

have in your checking account right now (then do the same

goals next New Year’s Day. Forget that. Instead, list real-life,

with your savings account). (4) Sign up for auto-drafts from

practical steps and routines to follow every day, and then

your paycheck to be transferred directly into your

follow them. Proverbs 21:5 reminds us, “The plans of the

10 // May 2021

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Gò0dNews for Men

Giants In The Land—The Empty Chair

A

by Jack Borders

few years ago, I wrote an article entitled

about, I cannot help but be aware of the empty chair.

“Giants in the Land, Obstacles in Our Path.”

The empty chair is the place at my side where my wife

In the article, I pointed out that whenever

has always been. I spend as much time as possible

God calls us to do something, there is a giant blocking

with my daughter and her family. Through all the

our path. The giant’s challenges and taunts are usually

conversation, fun, and laughter, there still remains the

accurate when they remind us that we are not smart

empty chair. As we put on a smile and try to celebrate

enough, experienced enough, or qualified to carry out

birthdays, holidays, and other special occasions, there,

God’s plan. The giant currently in my path is the giant

once again, is the empty chair. The empty chair is a reminder that I cannot fix everything, a symbol that life will have times of pain and hardship, a reminder that things don’t always go as planned. The empty chair is also a reminder of what Jesus told us: “In the world you will have tribulation” (John 16:33). That sounds hopeless until you read the rest of the verse: “But take courage; I have overcome the world.” The empty chair provides hope that when we enter

called Alzheimer’s disease. In 2014, my wife—my best

Heaven’s gates, we will all be whole. The suffering and

friend—was diagnosed with Early Onset Alzheimer’s.

the pain end. No more Alzheimer’s. No more ALS. No

As I helplessly watched the disease progress, our

more cancer, and the list goes on. When the story of

family was forced to make the painful decision to

our lives does not unfold as we had hoped, we must

place my wife in a memory care facility on a full-time

remind ourselves of Paul’s words in Romans 8:18: “For

basis. I would love to say that it gets easier with time,

I consider that the sufferings of this present time are

but it does not. There are many lonely days filled

not worthy to be compared with the glory that is to be

with sadness and pain, but I know she is cared for by

revealed to us.” May we all look forward to that day.

professionals with far more skill and training than I void. As I spend time with people whom I care deeply

12 // May 2021

About The Author

have. Friends reach out and do their best to fill the Jack Borders is a Christ follower, husband, father, grandfather, and caregiver living in Cleveland, Tennessee.


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Gò0dNews for Women

Strength of A Woman

M

by Jessica Mathis

ale and female: two words that seem

It is time for us as sisters—and brothers—

so simple to define, yet today’s culture

of Christ to get on our knees and pray. Our

has made two little words much more

government is slowly getting every biblical idea

complicated than they were intended to be. From the beginning of time, God chose

women to have a certain role, and in my opinion,

out of the White House. Our government is slowly becoming dangerous to every woman, child, brother, and sister in Christ.

that role is very important and distinguished. How special is it that we, as women, get to experience a tiny life growing inside our bellies? Our bodies are made to nurture and sustain another human being. Does that not amaze you? Women are full of emotions— sometimes our emotions can be over the top—but we are able to sympathize easier with others. We can be comforters to those who are hurting. When we think of a comforter, we think of Ruth in the Bible. Ruth dropped everything to be there for Naomi in her time of need. God used Ruth to be a comforter and true

Let us take all of what God specifically gave to

friend. God created women to be able to relate to

us as women and stand up for our rights. Let us

one another.

use our strength, emotional pull, and experiences

Women know how to put all of their struggles

to try and change our world and what it is

aside and get on with their day. All women,

becoming. Let us show our world what it really

whether a wife, employee, friend, or mother, have

means to be as strong as a woman.

how they feel. 14 // May 2021

About The Author

to power through and handle life, regardless of My name is Jessica Mathis. I am a blessed Christian, wife, stay-at-home mama, and part-time women’s advocate. I am just trying to raise a tiny human, one day at a time.


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Cleveland Church Directory ACNA Emmanuel Fellowship Anglican Church (ACNA) 155 Inman Street East, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 400-3307

Apostolic

First Apostolic Church 4355 Holiday Inn Express Way Cleveland, TN 37312 (229) 343-6880

Assembly of God

Grace Assembly 1976 Westland Dr SW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-7729 Triune Assembly 301 Sunset Drive Cleveland, TN 37312

Baptist

Beacon Baptist Church 505 Corvin Rd NE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 472-7056 Bellefounte Baptist Church 132 Bellfounte Rd NE, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 336-2312 Bethel Baptist Tabernacle 3165 Buchanan Rd SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 479-5820 Berean Baptist Church 2355 Bucks Pocket Rd SE, Old Fort, TN 37362 (423) 478-1697 Big Spring Baptist Church 1415 Hardwick St SE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-1101 Blue Springs Baptist Church 699 Blue Springs Church Rd SW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-0932 Candies Creek Church 294 Old Eureka Rd Charleston, TN 37310 (423) 479-3731 Cedar Springs Baptist Church 723 Cedar Springs Church Rd SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 479-5506 Center Point Baptist Church 1205 Lower River Rd NW Charleston, TN 37310 (423) 336-2133 Cleveland Cowboy Church 3040 Blythe Rd. Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-7936 Cloverleaf Baptist Church 2290 Waterlevel Highway Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 339-3617 Clingan Ridge Baptist Church 2412 Georgetown Road, NW Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 472-3511 Church At Grace Point 2595 Old Freewill Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 728-5050 Covenant Baptist Church 249 Calhoun Rd SE,

16 // May 2021

Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 559-2653 Dalton Pike Baptist Church 3055 Benton Pike NE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 472-7606 East Cleveland Baptist Church 1145 Arnold St NE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-8728 Echos of Mercy Baptist Church 535 Durkee Rd SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 715-9739 Elkmont Baptist Church 4030 Old Freewill Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 479-4600 Emmanuel Baptist Church 1227 Powerline Dr NE, Cleveland, TN 37323 Farmland Community Church 1675 Greendale Dr. SE Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 473-9891 First Baptist Church 1275 Stuart Road Cleveland, Tennessee 37312 (423) 709-9100 Galilee Baptist Church 665 Old Chattanooga Pike SW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 496-2019 Henegar Baptist Church 7423 Mouse Creek Rd. Cleveland, TN 37312 Hopewell Baptist Church 188 Old Georgetown Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 479-3763 Lebanon Baptist Church 1411 Old Parksville Rd NE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 479-6700 Macedonia Baptist Church 3119 Spring Place Rd SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 479-1713 Maple Street Baptist Church 1700 Maple St NE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 478-3622 Maranatha Baptist Church 453 Blue Springs Ln SE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 614-8991 Michigan Avenue Baptist Church 2741 Benton Pike NE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 472-8891 Mt Carmel Baptist Church 7619 Blue Springs Rd, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 479-1620 New Friendship Baptist Church 1344 Chatata Valley Rd NE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 476-6007 North Cleveland Baptist Church 2815 Ocoee St N, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 476-8524 Oak Grove Baptist Church 4452 Bates Pike SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 479-9125

Old Pathway Baptist Church 224 Rymer Rd NE, Cleveland, TN 37323 Parkway Baptist Church 185 Meadow Ln SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 339-5522 Philadelphia Baptist Church 910 30th St SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 Philippi Baptist Church 2325 Old Harrison Pike NW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 479-5385 Pleasant Grove Missionary Baptist Church 799 Inman Street East Cleveland, Tennessee 37311 (423) 476-4081 Public Church 850 17th St. NW Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 458-4405 Ridgeview Baptist Church 1501 S Ocoee St, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-5119 Samples Memorial Baptist Church 371 Samples Chapel Rd SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 476-2329 Shenandoah Baptist Church 138 Osment Rd SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 339-0103 Shiloh Baptist Church 3406 Blair Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 479-5755 Stuart Park Baptist Church 850 17th St NW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-6741 Tasso Baptist Church 164 Old Charleston Rd NE, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 559-2114 Temple Baptist Church 3070 Harrison Pike, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-6813 Thompson Spring Baptist Church 5660 Bates Pike SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 790-1823 Union Baptist Church 797 Hughes Lake Rd SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 559-1720 Valley View Baptist Church 4657 Spring Place Rd SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 472-7707 Washington Avenue Baptist Church 1720 Perry St SE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-0489 Waterville Baptist Church 4555 Dalton Pike SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 472-5582 West Cleveland Baptist Church 1959 Westland Dr SW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-8927 Westwood Baptist Church 4001 Georgetown Rd NW,

Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 472-1534 White Oak Baptist Church 2043 White Oak Valley Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 559-2359

Catholic

St Therese Catholic Church 900 Clingan Ridge Dr NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 476-8123

Charismatic

Cleveland Christian Fellowship 695 S Ocoee St, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-2642

Church of God

Agape Place Church of God 2611 Blue Springs Road SE Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-8691 Community Chapel Church of God 807 Blythe Ave SE Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 479-2143 Cornerstone Church of God 2823 Lee Hwy, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 478-0006 Church of God Sanctified, Inc. 746 First Street N.E. Cleveland, TN. 37311 (423) 479-3895 East Cleveland Church of God 900 15th St NE Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 479-3389 Fellowship of Praise Church of God 931 Inman Street East Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 479-3121 Grace Community Church of God 4745 Mouse Creek Road NW, Cleveland, TN 37312. (423) 614-0708 Heritage Fellowship Church of God 4635 South Lee Hwy McDonald, TN 37353 (423) 476-6316 International Worship Center Centro Internacional de 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 197 Neely Circle NE Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 790-7533 Graceway Chapel 221 14th St NW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 728-2226 International House of Fire 1701 South Lee Hwy Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 790-0772 The Journey Church 3191 South Lee Hwy, McDonald, TN 37353 (423) 728-4100 Living By Faith Ministries 183 1st Street NW Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 457-9072 Living Word Church 930 25th Street, NW Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 339-3028 or The Net Church Bradley Square 12 200 Paul Huff Pkwy Cleveland, TN 37312 New Life Bible Church 155 S Ocoee St, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-3882 Restoration Fellowship 211 Trewhitt Dr SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 479-4249 The Simple Gospel 850 Elrod St SE Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 650-9572 Shema Israel Ministry 850 Elrod St SE Cleveland, TN 37311 423-994-8553 The Sanctuary 1203 Smith Dr.

Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 478-2843 Tasso Christian Church 1135 Tasso Lane, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 479-2705 The TRIBE 1175 King Edward Avenue SE Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 380-8802 United Christian Church 2200 Peerless Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 479-4277 Unity Christian Ministries 2419 Georgetown Rd NW Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 473-9338 Walker Valley Community 787 Lauderdale Memorial Hwy Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 336-9696

Presbyterian

Charleston Cumberland Presbyterian Church 8267 N Lee Hwy, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 336-5004 First Cumberland Presbyterian 161 2nd St NE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-6751 First Presbyterian Church 433 N Ocoee St, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-5584 Flint Springs Cumberland Presbyterian Church 515 Flint Springs Rd Cleveland TN. 37323 (423) 284-6397 Prospect United Cumberland Presbyterian Church 310 New Murraytown Rd. NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 476-6181 St James Cumberland Presbyterian 151 Short St NE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-5762 Trinity Presbyterian PCA 1780 Stuart Rd. NE, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 559-9595

Seventh Day Adventist

Bowman Hills Adventist 300 Westview Dr NE Cleveland, TN 37312 Cleveland Fellowship Church 211 Trewhitt Drive Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 400-7054 East Cleveland Seventh-Day 801 Howard Circle SE Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-9299 Ladd Springs Seventh-Day 5860 Bates Pike SE Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 476-1889

Zion Assembly

Zion Assembly Church of God 5512 Waterlevel Hwy, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 476-3337

goodnewscm.com // 17


Gò0dNews for Everyone

Qualities About Our Heavenly Father y Father is Faithful. “My Foundation is My Faithfulness, but it is known, truly, only by those whose trust is in that sure Foundation.” PLB* “The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases. His mercies never come to an end” (Lamentations 3:22). My Father is Patient and Kind beyond measure or comprehension. “The Lord is slow to anger and filled with unfailing love, forgiving every kind of sin and rebellion” (Numbers 14:18a). My Father overflows with Joy, which He gives to His own (and He’s the inventor of humor). “And the ransomed of the Lord shall return and come to Zion with singing; everlasting joy shall be upon their heads; they shall obtain gladness and joy, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away” (Isaiah 51:11). My Father is endlessly creative. “When I consider your heavens. The work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, what is man that you are mindful of him, or the son of man that you care for him?”(Psalm 8:3-4). My Father is the Masterful Teacher, educating us “down to the scruple.” “Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls” (Matthew 11:29). My Father joyfully includes me in His plans. “For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord, “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope” (Jeremiah 29:11). There is no one so delightful to get to know, One who shares secrets and personal thoughts on important things, some that do affect me and some that don't. “Friendship with the Lord is reserved for those who love Him; with them He shares the secrets of His covenant” (Psalm 25:14). My Father is a Wonderful, non-judgmental friend. “No one, Lord,” she answered. “Then neither do I condemn you,” Jesus declared. “Now go and sin no more” (John 8:11). Although He can be terrifyingly fierce, I never feel afraid to call upon Him, nor to come close in worship, or to bring Him my concerns. “Though He slay me, yet I

18 // May 2021

will trust in Him. Even so, will defend my own ways before Him”( Job 13:15). I am His; He is mine. He is my delight; I am His delight. “I am my beloved’s, and he is mine...” (Song of Solomon 6:3). “Delight yourself in the Lord, and He will give you your heart’s desire” (Psalm 37:4). “Then the Lord will be your delight. I will give you great honor and satisfy you with the inheritance I promised your ancestor Jacob. I the Lord have spoken!” (Isaiah 58:14).“For the Lord your God is living among you. He is a mighty savior. He will take delight in you with gladness. With His Love, He will calm all your fears. He will rejoice over you with joyful songs” (Zephaniah 3:17). Finally, I add this paraphrase the Lord gave to me of a much loved verse: “Trust in the Lord (Me) with all your heart, and don't trouble yourself trying to figure everything out. In all things, give thanks, give honor by obeying; speak well and do all, in honor of and to Me. And I'll always show you what to do" (Proverbs 3:5). Learn to know Him, there is no more worthy pursuit. Take this verse as a challenge and a promise: “Friendship with the Lord is reserved for those who love Him; With them, He shares the secrets of His covenant” (Psalm 25:14). *PLB stands for Papa’s Listening Book, which is a collection of listening journals of the author.

About The Author

M

by Paul McGuire

Paul McGuire has been born again for almost 60 years, and has pursued to hear God’s Voice through all those years. He and his wife Teresa of 45+ years are active at Living Word Church in Cleveland, Tennessee. They have two children and four-and-counting grandchildren.


Church Activities & Events Four Point Baptist Church

Mountain Revival Singing Morning Service Sunday, May 9 | 10:30AM 3501 Redwood Drive, Cleveland, TN

North Cleveland Church of God Worship For Women

Friday, May 14 | 7PM 335 11th Street NE, Cleveland, TN 37311

First Baptist Cleveland Senior Adult Luncheon

Thursday, May 20 | 11:30AM - 1PM 1275 Stuart Road NE, Cleveland, TN

Rock Creek Baptist Church Ordained In Service

Sunday, May 23 | 6PM 1628 Reynolds Bridge Road, Benton, TN 37307


Gò0dNews for Everyone

Freedom In Christ

T

by Precious Lou May

here is therefore now no condemnation to those

inside out. Suddenly, our whole world is changing. We are

who are in Christ Jesus! When? The very moment

no longer of the world, and yet we still live in the world.

we accept Him! For the law of the Love of Christ

That’s because when we have truly accepted Christ, the old

Jesus has set us free from the law of sin and death! Free from the law? What kind of law are you talking

about? The convicting laws of guilt, condemnation, feelings of inferiority and defeat. Discouragement, an

man or woman has died, and Jesus has resurrected Himself in you. We are called to take up our cross and follow Him. He wants to make us fishers of men and women! And guess

“I’m stuck” attitude. I’ll always be this way, I’m a failure and the list goes on and on. Satan is a liar! He will cause you to lie to yourself as well as others. He will cause you to believe the lies that others have said about you! He is the accuser! The wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life! What is the gift of God? Why it’s Jesus! He is pure love, He is a healer, a deliver, a restorer, a teacher, a bread of life giver, your counselor, He waters the seed that has been planted, He is a gardener, and so much more! I wrote a poem in the year 1983. In fact I wrote a lot of poems that year. Unbelievably, these were actually wrote before I really

what, He Himself will train us how, as long as we do not

had any idea who Jesus really was/is to me, before I fully

lose our focus. You see, we still have a choice. We always

accepted Him and His free gift in me. How in the world,

have a choice of whether we want to obey the call of God

can this be you might ask? To be quite honest I cannot tell

on our lives or not. Everyone’s calling is not the same, and

you, I just know that is how it happened to me! One key,

that’s okay, but it is imperative to our true happiness that

is acceptance, but there are many other keys. Perhaps, self

we are obedient to the calling that He has placed within us.

fulfilling prophecy. You know what we tell ourselves about

Remember my brothers and sisters, He knew us before

ourselves has more power than we realize. According to

we were ever born. He alone knows the plans He has for

the scriptures we are told, (and I truly believe) life and

us. It’s up to us to listen to the Holy Spirit, and obey His

death are in the power of the tongue!

instructions. Obedience is another key!

We who have truly repented, and invited Jesus into

It’s my sincere hope that somehow, someway I have

our lives, also receive a phenomenal power that is nothing

encouraged you along on your journey towards really

short of miraculous! That power changes us from the

knowing and trusting in God, accepting Jesus, His one and only Son, and the person of the Holy Spirit!

20 // May 2021


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Gò0dNews Poem

Awakening

P

by Tamara Clark

ay attention.

There is a new beginning.

To the way the limbs move

He stirs the horizon,

As they are touched

Awakens the Earth

By the breath of the sky,

He turns it slowly

Leaves tremble

On the tips of His fingers.

Then fall

Lift your eyes and see Him!

Making way for new growth.

He waits for you!

About The Author

Rise up, my friend!

22 // May 2021

Tamara Clark was born and raised in Loveland, Colorado. She moved to Cleveland, Tennessee, in June of 2020. She attends church at the Church of God Jerusalem Acres in Cleveland.


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Gò0dNews for Parents

A Mother’s Faith

M

by Rev. Brenda Dedmon

other’s Day was made an official holiday in

hymns, and my mother would sit at the piano and sing the

1914 when President Woodrow Wilson declared

hymns I played, which led me to be the pianist at church.

it a national holiday. On this day, there are

Paul wrote to Timothy, “What strikes me most is

more phone calls made than any other day of the year. It

how natural and sincere your faith is. I am convinced that

is second to Valentine’s Day in flower sales and one of the

the same faith that dwelt in your grandmother, Lois, and

biggest gifting holidays. Mother’s Day is a wonderful way

your mother, Eunice, abides in you as well” (2 Timothy 1:5).

to honor mothers; however, is it only about the commercialization that we see today? Let us explore some faith ideas of how important a mother is to the family today. Proverbs 22:6 is a verse that describes how mothers will be a great influence on their children: “Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old, they will not turn from it.” This verse reminds me of my mother as her life was an example of God’s love in parenting me. She helped me to understand how to discover what God’s plan was for my life. She encouraged me to be creative, explore, and reach for the highest goals. At the age of 4, I discovered a “pretend friend” named

Paul reminded Timothy how his grandmother and mother’s faith was an important influence in how he lived his faith.

Charlotte. We did everything together, and most days, she

They provided the spiritual foundation he needed to be who

would eat lunch with us. We each had our favorite plates

God designed him to be.

that mother would put on the table. Some of her friends

What will your child remember about you? Are you

thought she should not let me play with a pretend friend.

providing Christian values that will be an example for

She would reply, “I see a lot of creativity with her playing

them to follow? Are you starting your child off on the way

with Charlotte.”

they should go? Will your child remember faith lessons

When I was in first grade, I signed myself up for piano

you demonstrated in your life? Are you helping your child

lessons. I told the teacher at school my mother wanted me

discover that they are “fearfully and wonderfully made”

to take piano. She gave me a list of prices. I gave that to

(Psalm 139:14)? Celebrate your faith this Mother’s Day with

my mother and told her that she wanted me to take piano.

your child.

much of a desire. A few years later, I was beginning to play

24 // May 2021

About The Author

My mother decided to let me explore piano since I had that 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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Jason Wright

I

grew up in Birchwood, Tennessee, where I was raised by

then taught in the Lebanon and Mt. Juliet Area as a physical

two amazing parents. My parents instilled a Christian

education teacher and coach for 16 years. However, I

foundation in me by living Christ-centered lives in front

constantly found myself being drawn back toward my love

of me from the moment I was born. I gave my heart to Christ at Decatur Church of God, where my father was—and still

of real estate. I obtained my building contractor’s license in 2006, and

is—pastor for over 35 years. As a young boy growing up in

my gorgeous wife and I began flipping properties (long

the Birchwood area, I have always been intrigued by real

before it was a cool TV show—LOL). Over the years, we

estate. I used to love playing the game Monopoly. For some

would buy homes, rehabilitate them, and then sell them. As

unknown reason, it really made sense to me, as it centered

I continued to repeat this process of buying and selling, my

around real estate. I know that sounds silly, but it’s true. I’ve

heart kept tugging me toward real estate. However, raising a

always been drawn to real estate. As I grew older, I began to

family and having a mortgage kept me tethered to a job that

understand that real estate could offer an opportunity for an

paid a weekly check with benefits; therefore, I continued to

amazing career where I would assist those trying to navigate

remain in the field of teaching for the sake of comfort and

the world of buying and selling real estate.

security. That all changed quickly when our marriage began

As many high school graduates do, I simply thought

to fall apart in 2014.

the next step for me after graduating high school was to

Oftentimes, we can’t seem to understand the trials

go to college and get a degree, so the idea of a real estate

we go through until we look back and see God’s grace,

career was put on the back burner. I graduated from Middle

mercy, and goodness as He was preparing us for something

Tennessee State University with a B.S. in Education and

amazing. Shannon and I felt that our only chance at saving

26 // May 2021


our marriage was to allow God to lead us through full surrender to Him. As we were working at allowing God to restore our marriage, we agreed that a fresh start would begin only by moving back to the Cleveland area. So we took a step of faith, sold our home in Lebanon, and quit our teaching careers. It reminded me of the Red Sea moment when the Children of Israel had to make a decision as Pharaoh was pursuing them; do we stay in Egypt or cross the Red Sea where there would be no turning back? Though they had been in bondage in Egypt, and that is all they knew, they had to step out in faith and cross the Red Sea in order for God to get them to the Promised Land. Like the children of Israel, we felt fear and trepidation in leaving the security and comfort of a career and restarting our lives, which required faith and trust in God without being able to fully see the harvest that would eventually lie before us. Following God has been the best decision of our lives, and I’m excited to tell you that not only has God restored our marriage, but we are thriving. I’m more in love with my wife than I’ve ever been, and we have two wonderful and amazingly talented children who love Jesus and use their musical talents for the glory of the Lord. North Cleveland Church of God is our home church where we teach a marriage class to help other couples strengthen their marriages and also be a light to those whose marriages may be struggling. North Cleveland welcomed us with open arms and has allowed us to continue to share our testimony of brokenness in our marriage with restoration through

Christ. We hope our story will continue to help others strengthen their marriages and not give up. Once we moved back and got plugged into our church, my wife said, “Honey, you have always dreamt of being a realtor. Now is your time; go chase your dream!” That one sincere comment from my biggest fan and supporter gave me the courage to move forward and pursue my real estate career. After getting my real estate license, I felt empowered, and I knew God had opened a door for me as my heart felt it was in line with my hopes, dreams, and God’s guidance. Since becoming a realtor in 2016, I’m able to use the real estate platform daily by meeting people and through my website, countitsold.com, where I can interact with many folks and find simple ways to share the love of Christ with them. When new agents ask, “How do you sell so much real estate?” I tell them, “I don’t spend my time trying to sell real estate; I spend my time building relationships. People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care!” I want to be more than just a real estate agent: I want to be a friend, a shoulder, a caring person, and a person others can trust. I want to use the knowledge and experience I have been given to help others. I want to be more like Christ daily and allow His light to shine through me as He has given me an amazing platform to help others and share His love.

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goodnewscm.com // 27


Gò0dNews for Everyone

Our Ebenezers

O

by Beth Maxwell

n my way to work every morning, I pass by a

saying, “This marks the place where God helped us” 1

well known manufacturing plant here in town,

Samuel 7:12 .

and every morning, I glance over between their

I have wonderful memories from my childhood church.

parking lots, and see this humongous round rock that lies

It was there that I learned what a church family was.

on a grassy area. It always reminds me of a certain passage

My Mom and Dad had already taught me about God’s

in the Old Testament.

unconditional love at home, and our church body was a

I would love to go and take a picture of it, but there’s

continuation and extension of that same love.

not really an easy way to do it unless I’m willing to get

The word “Ebenezer,” reminds me

caught sneaking into their parking lot, and

of singing this one particular song at

how could I ever begin to explain my

church, growing up, I remember

way out of that!

singing the phrase, “Here I raise

When good

my Ebenezer.” At the time, I

things happen, we

had no idea what this song

want to remember

meant, but I sang it with

it. Laura Ingalls

gusto as it vibrated through

talks about a

my soul. This song

“remembrance

happened to be called,

book” on the tv

“Come Thou Fount of

show, “Little House

Every Blessing.”

on the Prairie.”

God used this old

Journaling helps us

hymn, to help me put

remember things that have

down one of my first

taken place in our lives.

“Ebenezers,” I was in

When I eat a good meal, I

training for a lifetime of

want to remember it, so I can get it

worshipping and praising

again, or fix it again. When I read a good book, I take it slow to the end, remembering all the good parts along the way. And after watching my favorite movie, which

Him. My love for singing about the Lord began here, a very special memory. Going back and remembering how God has helped

happens to be the movie “Giant,” with Rock Hudson and

us in the past, seeing where our “Ebenezers” are placed

Elizabeth Taylor, I love remembering my favorite scenes.

throughout our life, helps us to know that He will continue

There are significant and specific times in my life, when I remember that God has helped me, brought me through

to be with us, and never forsake us. Go back and remember the times you saw God faithful

a storm, fought a battle for me, blessed me, guided me,

in the little things, and remember the times that you saw

protected me, dried my tears, and even held me, these times

Him faithful in the big things.

are to be remembered.

Remember these things. Remember your Ebenezers.

Mizpah and Shen. He named it “Ebenezer” (Rock of Help)

28 // May 2021

About The Author

“Samuel took a single rock and set it upright between My name is Beth Maxwell. Wife to Kevin, mom to Jeremy, Kurt, Alex, and our daughter Maria. I’m a Kindergarten assistant at Michigan Avenue School, who loves singing in my First Baptist Choir, and also loves writing.


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Gò0dNews for Everyone

Consider

W

by Charles Finney

hat does it mean to consider? The dictionary says it means to think about carefully, to think of especially with regard to taking some action, to take into account, to regard or treat in an attentive or kindly way, to gaze on steadily or reflectively, to come to judge or classify, to regard, to suppose, or to reflect or deliberate. Today, we need to consider. Consider HIM. Consider joy. Consider Jesus. Consider the lilies. Simply consider! It seems like we as a nation have failed to consider the duties we owe to God, our family, our neighbors, and ourselves. We have failed to consider the journeys of others and the roads they have had to travel. We have failed to consider the hardships and toils that have beset our world. Today in the USA alone, we have an estimated population of 331,002,651. In essence, there are that many roads traveling each day. Some are connected through church, family, friends, hobbies, work, and even political considerations. Some are not connected at all. Some are considered, while others are not. It is through all these interconnected efforts that we strive to achieve something beyond that which our forefathers accomplished. We are working but not considering. Haggai 1:5: “Now therefore thus saith the Lord of hosts; Consider your ways.” It seems like we have departed from the building blocks given to us. We have failed to consider the consequences of the separation of the principles of truth and morality. We have failed to show grace and no longer know grace. Our dereliction of duty has led us not to a nation under God but to a nation apart from God. We have abandoned God. Are we to consider ourselves as His people? Exodus 33:13: “Now therefore, I pray thee, if I have found grace in thy sight, shew me now thy way, that I may know thee, that I may find grace in thy sight: and consider that this nation is thy people.” We need to return to a day of consideration. Deuteronomy 4:39: “Know therefore this day, and consider it in thine heart, that the Lord he is God in heaven above, and upon the earth beneath: there is none else.” We need to consider that God is a God of mercy and love, but there will come a day when He will judge and chasten you. Deuteronomy 8:5: “Thou shalt also consider in thine

30 // May 2021

heart, that, as a man chasteneth his son, so the Lord thy God chasteneth thee.” Consider Jesus. Consider His death upon a cross. Consider His Resurrection, but more importantly, consider His return. Consider if you are ready for His return. 1 Samuel 12:24: “Only fear the Lord, and serve him in truth with all your heart: for consider how great things he hath done for you.” He loved you so much He died for your sins. He hears and answers prayers: 7.8 billion prayers in the world daily if they pray with a sincere heart.

Psalm 8:3: “When I consider thy heavens, the work of thy fingers, the moon and the stars, which thou hast ordained.” Consider the majesty and beauty of the world He created. Consider the failing of man as he polluted and daily destroys it. Ecclesiastes 7:14: “In the day of prosperity be joyful, but in the day of adversity consider: God also hath set the one over against the other, to the end that man should find nothing after him.” 2 Timothy 2:7: “Consider what I say; and the Lord give thee understanding in all things.” Hebrews 10:24: “And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works.” Consider this!


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Gò0dNews on Motherhood

Three Things My Kids Taught Me

A

by Stephanie Shrum

h, the pitter-patter sound of tiny little feet running

helped her to see things differently. I never hesitated to go to

down the hallway. The prerequisite alarm that

their Heavenly Father from that point on.

alerts you—it’s time to get up—just before the

Prayer. This is the big one. Girls are precious. They

overly happy tiny humans invade your bed as though they

are sweet, whimsical creatures that leave a trail of glitter

were attacking the dawn. No more sleeping in. No more

everywhere they go. However, those precious little wonders

selfishness. Life has new meaning now. It revolves around

come with testing and trials as well. Through these, God

the demands set by another life form, not your own. Is it all

taught me not only the power of prayer but also how to

worth it? God thinks so.

pray. He took me to His Word, where I learned to claim the

Psalm 127:3 tells us that children are a gift from the

promises for my children that only He could foreknow that

Lord: a reward, even! Why would God say this? As I look back over the years of raising two girls, a few good reasons come to mind. Here are three things that my kids taught me, although I could list thousands more. Love. When I had my first daughter, I remember feeling overwhelmed with love for her. It was unbreakable and sacrificial. I often think that this must be a glimpse of what our Heavenly Father feels for us. When I became pregnant with my second daughter, I worried that I might not love her as much as the first. Not only did I love her as much as the first, I somehow

I would need. I found that God is faithful to His Word. We

loved them both even more. Each child is unique, as is a

are called to train our children in the way they should go. I

mother’s love for them. But somehow, it is also equally the

believe a mother’s love creates the tenacity that is required

same. Only God could make that happen.

to hang in there in those tough times, to fight for our little

Faith. The Bible teaches us that God will be a father to the fatherless. There were countless times when He proved this to be true. I recall one of my girls arguing with me. I

ones until they are old enough and trained to fight the good fight of faith for themselves. The overall lesson that I learned is that my world has been enriched by having them in it. I wouldn’t want it any

that He promised to be their Father. I asked Him to correct

other way!

His daughter. Shortly after, my daughter came to me with an apology. She explained that she heard a sermon that

32 // May 2021

About The Author

was very upset. I called out to the Lord and reminded Him

Stephanie Shrum is the ASA for PCM/ J103/ComeOnLetsGo ministries. She is a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. She is also the author/creator of the blog runninganegativesplit.com.


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Gò0dNews on Hope

Hope In Loss

T

by Melissa Phillips

wenty-three years ago on February 3, my

to that word, and several weeks later, to the doctors’

dreams of becoming a mom were coming true,

amazement, I was pregnant.

and then at over three months pregnant, I

Seven years later, God gave me another boy. I have

miscarried. Whether it had been at four weeks or over

been doubly blessed. At some point at the Southern

12 weeks, it was a life, and I suffered a loss. Lying in

Baptist church I attended, a lady came over to me and

the hospital bed as the doctor told me what happened,

said, “I know this sounds strange, but God told me to

I still remember that the sadness, the hurt, and the heartbreak were overwhelming. For days I cried. But then it went on: the wondering. Was my baby a boy or a girl, and I could not get over it and was having dreams. I would go to sleep and dream of having my baby, and every time, the nurse would take the baby away and I could not see him/her, and it was horrible. I begin to ask God to please take the dreams away and please tell me what I had. Finally, one night, I had a dream, and this time, as the nurse took the baby away, she yelled, “It’s a boy!” I woke up amazed at what God had shown me. Every year, I remember him, but I never had

tell you Jesus is rocking your babies in heaven.” She had no idea I had had two miscarriages. But God let

closure. About a year ago, as I was telling Jaxen he

me know Jesus was rocking them both in heaven. See,

had a brother in heaven and he asked me his name, I

what they say is a clump of cells is LIFE. At conception.

said that I never named him. At that moment, I gave

Be encouraged today. Whatever loss you have

him the name I always wanted to use: “Luke.” My

suffered, there is healing. Whatever you have been

Luke would be 23 this year. Every year on February

praying for, there is HOPE. Today, I remember Luke

3, I never fail to think of him and tell his brothers

and the precious other one. Luke 18:27: “What is

how old he would be each year, but PEACE is there.

impossible with man is possible with God.”

Before I had Samuel, I suffered a second miscarriage, as God had already told me He was giving me a boy and to name him Samuel. Although it hurt, I clung

34 // May 2021

About The Author

but this time, it was at home. This time was different, Melissa Phillips is a resident of Cleveland, Tennessee. The wife of Jacen and a member of Dwelling Place Church.


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Gò0dNews for Grandparents

Some Benefits of A Grandparent ’m a mother to four (now grown – thanks be to God) children! I remember the countless days of trying to get parenting right. The burden of feeling like I was doing or saying things that were going to “mess up” my kids. The numerous nights I put my head on the pillow unsure of how I was going to continue with this motherhood thing when the sun came up. Parenting is hard. It is not for the faint-hearted or weakstomached. IT. IS. HARD. Having raised my own now, it gave me a whole new level of respect for my parents. The sacrifices they made. The hardships they endured. The schedules they had to juggle. Then, several years ago, I was elevated to the delightful role of Grandma! I had heard from others who entered that elite group before me that this relationship would be like no other. Rumor was that grandparents would do things for their grandchildren that they would never do for their own kids. I didn’t believe it. I secretly questioned those people’s salvation and thought they just needed more of Jesus. But then, it happened to me—my grandson was born and my brain turned to mush and my heart to putty as there was nothing I wouldn’t do for him. (“You want cake for breakfast, darlin’? Absolutely!!” I’d slice it and serve it up as my adult daughter sat there looking on, rolling her eyes at me as she recalled the days of mandated oatmeal.) My grandson is nearly 14 now and I’ve learned a few things over the years about the benefits of being a grandparent: We bring a supporting layer of stability. When you’re in the day to day flurry of raising children, you’re just trying to stay alive—mentally, physically, and financially. Grandparents have navigated that flurry and reached a place of stability and calm. We can provide a space for our grandchildren to just be themselves without “getting on someone’s last nerve.” We bring wisdom, experience, and insight. Obvious, I know, but that age gap between us and our grown children can prove to be so useful for our grandchildren as they grow and navigate life. We’ve spent enough years circling around the sun to know there’s nothing new under it.

38 // May 2021

We provide love and acceptance…no matter what. Life is hard. As grandparents, we’ve lived long enough to know our grandchildren will be disappointed, hurt, and let down in this world. We bring an extra layer of love, an everattentive listening ear, and a great shoulder to cry on when our grandchildren need someone in their corner (having their favorite cookie available is always a plus, too).

We can supply an extra level of faith. Psalm 103:1718 says it so perfectly: “…the Lord’s faithful love is toward those who fear Him, and His righteousness toward the grandchildren of those who keep His covenant…” Paul noted the foundational importance of Timothy’s faith heritage as he said, “I recall your sincere faith that first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice…” (2 Timothy 1:5). As grandparents, we can never underestimate the influence we have on our grandchildren. Regardless of how often we physically get to see them, God has gifted us with a special place in their lives to help ground them (and cover them) in love, faith, and peace. Grandparents are a delightful blend of laughter, caring deeds, wonderful stories, and love. ~Unknown

About The Author

I

by Kristen West

Kristen West works at Rock Bridge Community Church with a heart for staff leadership, development, and care. She is a communicator with a passion to inspire, encourage, and challenge others in their daily walk with Christ. She writes and publishes weekly content on her blog at kristen-west.com.


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Gò0dNews for Everyone

Battles

L

by Paula Burgner

ife’s not all about the battles that you win,

it’s the journey that we take in life. We are all on

it’s about how we deal with the battles that

a journey in this life, it’s up to you what path you

come our way. You have to fall in love with

will choose.

yourself and with what makes you unique. You

God’s Word is always there to keep us in the

must take time to slow down and enjoy life. Too

right lane, you just have to be willing to accept

often we forget this as we are embraced in today’s

the directions. Although it may not seem like it on

rushed fast pace life that we have all come to

those hard days, but if we will just submit unto

know well. As we must stay grounded to God’s Word. Just as 2 Samuel 22:37 tells us, “Thou hast enlarged my steps under me so that my feet don’t slip.” God has given us this ability to be able to take a slow walk. When you take the time to slow down and think things through, you start recognizing what’s missing in your life. Too often we think we know where we are

God’s Word, listen to Him, and believe in our

headed, but we just end up back in the same spot

hearts, we will understand His plan as He will

where we started. Sometimes we must be forced

show it to us in His own time. Enjoy this life we

to slow down and to take the time to look at the

are given. Just as the Bible tells us in Philippians

blessings that God has given us. When we slow

4:4, “Rejoice in the Lord always, and again I say

down, we all discover something we weren’t

rejoice.” The journey in life is the reward.

path not knowing where it’s going to lead you, but you enjoy the ride. It’s not the destination,

40 // May 2021

About The Author

expecting. It’s just like life, you start down the 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 your Taste Buds

Chicken Bake

T

by Bekah Prytherch

his is a fast and easy meal my family loves and it’s great to pair with a salad! This a great meal when

Instructions

you don’t have a lot of time to prep beforehand.

1. Chop potatoes into cubes.

Ingredients

2. Cut onion, pepper, and carrots according to preference.

• 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

3. Place vegetables into a greased baking dish.

• 6 red potatoes

• 1 cup of carrots

4. Place chicken breasts on top of vegetables.

• 1 large onion

5. Pour Italian dressing and sprinkle the ranch seasoning over everything.

• 1 packet of ranch seasoning

6. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes or until done, at 400 degrees Fahrenheit.

• 1 green bell pepper

• 1/2 a cup of Italian dressing

42 // May 2021

7. And enjoy!



Gò0dNews for Everyone

A Heart Condition

I

by Dorothy Teague

f you are like most people, you made a New Year’s

able to use His Word through us by bringing it to our

resolution to lose weight and get fit. In the United States,

remembrance and speaking it to others as a witness or a

someone has a heart attack every 40 seconds. Every

comfort. Conversely, if we have spent our time reading

year, 805,000 Americans have a heart attack (CDC, 2020).

or looking at other things that are not good for us and not

We all want to lead a healthier lifestyle, but the work to

pleasing to God, then it will affect our walk with the Lord

get there is daunting. We need to eat the right foods, eat

and will not benefit anyone. Proverbs 23:7 says, “As a man

less, exercise, and be more disciplined in order to be heart

thinks, so is he.” What we spend our time thinking about

healthy. So if we really want to live longer and be healthy,

will be the activities we carry through on. If we hide God’s Word in our hearts, as Psalm 119:11 says, then we will be “heart healthy.” When we go to church, we put on our “Sunday best” in the way we dress and the way we act. We know all the right words to say and how to act. We raise our hands in praise and sing just as loudly as the next parishioner. So to those around you, it might seem like you are a good Christian. But God looks at the heart (1 Samuel 16:70). Only He can see if your heart is where it should be in your relationship with Him and others. We might be able to fool people for a while, but soon, the mouth speaks what is in our hearts.

we will put in the time and the work to not risk a heart attack or other health ailments. As surely as what we feed ourselves affects our total

In a sense, we all have a heart condition. We were all born into a sinful world with a nature to sin. If we don’t feed our hungry souls the Word of God, our hearts will not

physical health and heart, the same truth applies to

be healthy and whole. We must feast upon His Word! My

what we feed our Spirit. There’s a computer term that

resolution to be heart healthy is in this verse: “Let the words

states, “Garbage in, garbage out.” If we feed our spirit

of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable

man garbage, then garbage is what will come out of our

in your sight, oh Lord, my strength, and my redeemer”

mouths. “…for out of the abundance of the heart, his

(Psalm 19:14).

mouth speaks” (Luke 6:45). If we spend our time reading of our mouths when we are in conversation. God will be

44 // May 2021

About The Author

the Word, then it will rise up in our spirits and come out

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.


Your health means everything. And now is the time to make the most of it. It’s time to address those concerns, large or small, that you’ve been putting off. We’re here to help, providing a range of quality healthcare services, from routine screenings, to surgeries, to emergency care. Don’t make your health wait. Get the care you need now.

To find a healthcare provider, call 423-374-6571 To learn more, visit StarrRegional.com


Gò0dNews for Everyone

Afraid To Try

A

by Heather Tate

fraid to try…afraid to fail…afraid to succeed! Do thoughts such as these keep you from stepping faithfully into the purpose or calling

God has placed on your life? Yes, these thoughts hinder my progress in God’s purpose! Maybe you feel the same.

When I try to move forward, I often feel fear and doubt. We need to remember fear and doubt are not given by God. Fear and doubt are from the enemy. I make them a me problem; then they become a heart problem. In what areas of your life where you feel the call of

I’ve taken some time to consider self-sabotage. I’m not

God on your heart do you find doubt keeping you from

speaking of conscious self-sabotage; no, it’s more the kind

moving forward? Look at those areas, and compare the

of self-sabotage the enemy tends to whisper in my ear to

calling and purpose you believe you are meant to do with

cause doubt and fear: fear that keeps me from moving forward in what I am supposed to do to fulfill my God-given purpose. I considered areas of my life where I might avoid progress toward my God-given purpose. I am afraid to try because I am afraid not only of failure but that I won’t succeed: more importantly, that I can’t keep up with success! Yep, I’m afraid of success! Let’s look at a verse about fulfilling our Godgiven purpose. The Christian Standard Bible (2017) says in Psalm 57:1-3, “Be gracious to me, God, be gracious to me, for I take refuge in you. I will seek refuge in the shadow of your wings until danger passes. I call to God Most High, to God who fulfills his

God’s Word. Then meditate on 1 Peter 1:13: “Therefore,

purpose for me. He reaches down from heaven and saves

with your minds ready for action, be sober-minded and set

me, challenging the one who tramples me. God sends his

your hope completely on the grace to be brought to you at

faithful love and truth.”

the revelation of Jesus Christ.”

Verse two says, “…God who fulfills his purpose for

Finally, rest in Colossians 3:23-24 as you do your work

me.” Knowing God fulfills His purpose for us, we can

for the Lord: “Whatever you do, do it from the heart, as

boldly move forward because His Word combined with

something done for the Lord and not for people, knowing

our faith gives us the power to fight a battle against the

that you will receive the reward of an inheritance from the

enemy. James 1:5-6 says, “Now if any of you lacks wisdom,

Lord. You serve the Lord Christ.”

he should ask God—who gives to all generously and

I hope these words are both encouraging to you and

ungrudgingly—and it will be given to him. But let him

action-inspiring! May you be blessed as you venture boldly

ask in faith without doubting. For the doubter is like the

into the purpose God has for you.

surging sea, driven and tossed by the wind.” The key is to ask “without doubting.” Our doubts do we, as believers, demolish our own progress with our doubt? We fail to take a step forward in faith.

46 // May 2021

About The Author

cause turbulence in our lives like a stormy sea. How often

Heather Tate is the founder and president of Intricate Umbrella Inc, a Public Relations and Communications company. Heather’s desire is to help anyone fulfill their true purpose in life through education and personal development. To find out more about Intricate Umbrella Inc and services offered, visit IntricateUmbrella.com or email Heather@IntricateUmbrella.com.


The New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary Certificate Center meets at

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Gò0dNews

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Gò0dNews

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Gò0dNews

Christian Magazine

Mission Statement:

W

Writer Guidelines:

e believe when people are equipped,

Who: Our writers range from pastors, professors, and

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professional writers to stay at home moms and dads,

living out their faith in Jesus Christ they

business professionals, and others who have a desire to

have the potential to be world changers. Our mission is to bring people into a dynamic

relationship with Jesus Christ—a relationship that empowers them to see how God can work through individual personalities, situations, and talents. Christ was an activist, he did not neglect the needs of the people as He brought His message. We strive to encourage everyone to look more like Christ by reaching outside of themselves to serve the needs of others—at home, at school, in communities, and across the world.

goodnewscm.com Phone: 423.478.6484

reach out to people through words of encouragement. What: We believe that it is important to laugh together, praise each other, encourage one another, and to offer biblical advice. Articles can be directed toward everyone, or from woman to woman, or man to man. We love to share recipes and family traditions as well. We ask that articles be kept to a 500 word maximum. We’d love to hear from you! Where: Please send submissions to articles.goodnews@gmail.com Why: Because God has not intended for us to just survive. We believe that we are intended to reach out to love and encourage each other. God has brought each of us through tough times, blessed us, and made the “impossible” possible. Let’s, together, share the love of Jesus Christ.


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Gò0dNews for Everyone

Church Is Not A Building

E

by Sandra Gilmore

ven as a child, I thought her name was odd.

us into a kindergarten-kindred team. Despite our

(We’ll get to that a little later.) Since church

awkward social skills, trips, falls, spills, squeals, and

was already a big part of our family life,

giggles, she ushered us into the realm of fine little

going to kindergarten at our church was an easy

ladies and gentlemen.

routine for me on weekdays. Making the leap from

By the end of the school year, we knew how to

home alone with Mom and playing outdoors with

conduct ourselves in circle time, to forgive each other

the neighborhood kids to circle time with 10 or

graciously, and to encourage each other with artwork

more other kindergarteners took some ushering. To

or storytelling or even quiet time. We knew the basics

be successful in life’s transitions, we need capable

of learning through listening, loving God’s world,

ushers. Our kindergarten teacher was no exception.

and laughter. With crayons and paste (and even the occasional macaroni shells!), she taught us how to express our God-given creativity. With teeter-totters and merry-gorounds, she encouraged us to play until we were winded. And through tears, scrapes, or rainy days, she taught us to handle disappointment with a focus on hope rather than hurt. This remarkable lady’s name was Mrs. Church. Yes, her authentic surname was “Church”! She was not only an usher into social settings and learning but also an influencer

She mastered the delicate balance of gentle but

for how the Church can be in motion. After all, the

firm, subtle but clear, obvious but not obnoxious.

Church is not a building but a people: just like our

She lovingly set clear boundaries. With just as

dear Mrs. Church!

much love, she supportively helped us explore through exuberant creativity without creating chaos. She drew out our individual talents while melding

50 // May 2021

About The Author

the freedom within those boundaries. She led us Sandra Gilmore serves the Lord as wife, mom, and encourager, mostly through writing and speaking, occasionally through cooking, rarely through anything athletic and only because of the mercy and grace of Jesus. You can reach her by email: tandsgilmore@yahoo.com or her website www.sandragilmore.org.


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