September 2023

Gò0dNews

Back Row (L to R): Darrin Douglas, licensed funeral director; Mason Holliday, funeral assistant; Perry Horner, funeral assistant; Marc Rush, licensed funeral director; Jim Hibbard, funeral assistant. Front Row (L to R): Brent Swanson, funeral assistant; Robert Bankston, funeral assistant; Judy Satterfield, administrative assistant; Kathy Partin, family services; Joseph Bathe, funeral assistant; Darla Rush, administrative assistant; Greg Rush, licensed funeral director. Not pictured: Jenna Eve Picou, licensed funeral director; Harold (Joe) Parker, funeral assistant; Susan Harper, after care-family support.

About Us

WRITERS

Brenda Dedmon

Brian Johnson

Charles Finney

David Kemp

Denise M. Shahan

DeWayne Hamby

Dorothy Teague

Ed Carr

Granger Hughes

Heather Medley

Jan Merop

Judy Hood

Leslie Bennett

MaryLee Carr

Rachel Smith

Rhonda Cross

Dr. Rob Debelak

Rodney Jones

Sheila Bird

Shelly McClanahan

Stephanie Brown-Daniels

SALES

Bud Kinches

423-650-2801

Email: bud.goodnews@gmail.com

DESIGN

Caleb Prytherch

Email: art.goodnews@gmail.com

PHOTOGRAPHER

Paula Knipp

423-310-4207

FACEBOOK

GoodNews CM

EDITOR/ARTICLE COORDINATOR

Sandra Gilmore

Email: articles.goodnews@gmail.com

PUBLISHER

Matthew and Bethany Ruckman

Cell: 423-503-1410

Email: goodnewstn@gmail.com

OFFICE

423-790-5378

WEBSITE goodnewscm.com issuu.com/goodnewscm

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 strengthen our community through relevant editorial and effective advertising.

GoodNews Christian Magazine is written by men and women in the community who love and serve the Lord. Our hearts are open and willing to be used by God to reach out to the community to spread the GoodNews!

Disclaimer

All of the content in the GoodNews Christian Magazine is for general information and/or use. Such contents does not constitute advice and should not be relied upon in making (or refraining from making) a decision. Any specific advice or replies to queries in any part of the magazine is the personal opinion of such experts/consultants/persons and is not subscribed to by GoodNews Christian Magazine. The information in GoodNews Christian Magazine is provided on an “AS IS” basis, and all warranties, expressed or implied of any kind, regarding any matter pertaining to any information, advice or replies are disclaimed and excluded. We reserve the right to refuse any advertisement or article we deem inappropriate.

God: Our Ever-Present Help in Trouble

by David Kemp

When I was a young boy, I had three different recurring nightmares that were so vivid I still remember them today, even though it’s been years since I actually had those dreams. I would wake up terrified. As long as I stayed in my own room, I would remain terrified. So I would go and crawl in bed between my mom and dad. And there with them, I knew I was safe.

There are plenty of other things we all face that could cause us to fear. But there is Someone to whom we can always draw close and be helped and comforted. Psalm 46:1 NKJV states, “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” A refuge is a shelter, a place of safety and security. There are cities in the world today that are under attack. When people are under attack, they go to where shelters are to find refuge. And when you are under attack – from people, from circumstances, from tragedies – you must go to where the shelter is. God is our refuge and strength.

The words “very present” mean “ever-present.” Family members and friends are not always able to be there in times of our need or trouble or danger. But God is our everpresent help in trouble. He is always present everywhere. Don’t think of Him as being spread out so that part of Him is in one place and another part of Him is somewhere else. God cannot be divided into parts. All of God is always present everywhere, so whenever you need Him, all of God is present right there with you, willing and able to help you.

One summer, Martin Luther went through a long period of deep depression. He finally found comfort in Psalm 46, and he quoted verse 1 repeatedly: “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” And that verse

was the basis for Luther’s hymn, “A Mighty Fortress Is Our God.” There are not many songs still being sung almost 500 years after being written, but that one is!

Time after time, the Bible records God’s promise to people: “I am with you.” Isaiah 41:10 NKJV is a wonderful example: “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.” One of the last things the Lord Jesus Christ said before ascending back to heaven was His promise, “I am with you always, even to the end of the age” (Matthew 28:20 NKJV). Hebrews 13:5-6 NKJV records what the Lord says and what we can say in response: “He Himself has said, ‘I will never leave you nor forsake you.’ So we may boldly say: ‘The Lord is my helper; I will not fear. What can man do to me?’ ”

The skeptic says, “God is nowhere.” The Christian knows better. Using the same letters, the Christian says, “God is now here!”

David Kemp is pastor of Hickory Valley Baptist Church, 2320 Hickory Valley Road, Chattanooga, TN 37421. Feel free to contact him at pastor@hickoryvalleybaptist.com.

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Jalapeno Pepper Poppers

by Ed and MaryLee Carr

We had these at a party and were instantly addicted! They are easy enough to make and keep on hand. We have 1-2 per day!

Ingredients/Instructions

Start with 10-12 medium to large size jalapenos, washed, sliced length-wise with stems and seeds removed.

In a bowl, soften 8 oz of cream cheese. Mix in 2 teaspoons paprika and 2 teaspoons minced garlic. Using a small spoon, fill each pepper half.

Cook bacon according to package directions, then break each piece of bacon in half. Place one half-piece of bacon on each pepper.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Bake for 5 to 10 minutes, depending on how soft you want the peppers to be.

These can be stored – covered – in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Ed and MaryLee Carr live in Cleveland, Tennessee. Ed is an excellent craftsman, especially with woodworking. MaryLee’s first love is singing, along with sewing and leading the prayer ministry at Lakeview Community Church. You can reach them at classiccarr57@gmail.com.

Tax Buckets and Your Financial Plan

Money Matters Granger Hughes with

Placing money in the right tax buckets refers to strategic tax planning to optimize your financial situation by minimizing tax liabilities. It involves understanding the different types of tax-advantaged accounts and investment strategies available to you. While this article can provide general information, please keep in mind that tax laws can vary by state, so it's always a good idea to consult with a qualified tax professional and qualified financial professional for personalized advice.

Typical income sources in retirement usually include some or all of the following:

• Social Security benefits

• Tax-deferred Accounts (401(k), IRA, 403(b), 457, SEP-IRA, etc.)

• Taxable Accounts (1099's)

• Tax-exempt Accounts

• Pension benefits

• Rental Properties

• Business Income

• Other full or part-time income

These sources of income generally fall into one of three types of categories; Taxable, Tax-Deferred Growth, and TaxFree Income.

Taxable Investment Accounts: This category includes money such as savings accounts, money market accounts, individual stocks and bonds, mutual funds, and brokerage accounts. Taxable accounts don't offer specific tax advantages, but they provide flexibility in terms of withdrawals and investment choices. Income generated from investments in these accounts, such as interest, dividends, and capital gains, may be subject to taxes, but they also allow for long-term capital gains rates, which can be more favorable than ordinary income tax rates. Taxable accounts should hold a specific

amount of assets determined by your annual expenses. This amount would ideally be 6 months of expenses.

Tax-Deferred Growth Accounts: These accounts include 401(k)s, 403(b)s, 457s, Traditional IRAs, and Tax Deferred Annuities. If your employer offers a retirement plan like a 401(k) or 403(b), contributing to it can provide immediate tax benefits. Contributions are typically made on a pre-tax basis, reducing your taxable income for the year. Additionally, earnings within the account grow tax-deferred until you withdraw the funds in retirement. Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs): IRAs offer tax advantages for individuals. Traditional IRAs allow you to contribute pre-tax income, reducing your taxable income for the year. The earnings grow tax-deferred, and you'll pay taxes when you withdraw the funds in retirement.

Tax-Free Income: Accounts that can provide tax-free income include Roth IRAs, Roth 401(k)s, and municipal bonds. Both Roth IRAs and Roth 401(k)s are funded with after-tax contributions, but qualified withdrawals, including earnings, are tax-free. For the most part, income in this category is not taxable at a federal or state level and usually does not cause Social Security to become taxable. Municipal bonds are the exception as they can cause your Social Security income to be taxable.

Keep in mind, the suitability of these strategies depends on your specific financial situation and goals. It's essential to consider factors such as your income, age, risk tolerance, and future plans when determining the right tax buckets for your money. Consulting with a tax advisor or financial planner can provide personalized guidance based on your circumstances.

Driven by a passion to educate, inform and prepare future retirees, Mr. Hughes works with his father to help provide educational opportunities for clients as well as others in the community. He feels a responsibility to help inform those who may otherwise not be aware of strategies, changes, and opportunities available to them when it comes to their financial well-being.

Whatever your goals, we can help you get there.

Retirement Planning | Tax Planning | Social Security Strategies

Medicare Planning | Estate Planning | Long Term Care

Retirement planning is the process of determining how you can meet your goals through the proper management of your financial resources.

Tax planning should not only assess your tax situation at retirement and in the present, but also look towards the future.

Social security strategies are various approaches that an individual may take to maximize their social security benefits.

There is more to Medicare than meets the eye. Making the best decision for your situation at age 65 is one of the biggest retirement decisions one may make.

Estate planning is a key element of a successful financial strategy. It ensures you will leave a legacy that provides for your loved ones by properly protecting and distributing your wealth according to your wishes.

If you're ready to take the next step in your retirement planning journey, call (423) 664-4203 today to explore your options.

Main Office: 1035 Peerless Crossing NW, Cleveland, TN 37312

Chattanooga Office: 6752 Executive Oak Lane, Chattanooga, TN 37421

hughesretirementgroup.com

Good, Good Father

by Dorothy Teague

Father-daughter dances have become popular these days in school and community settings. I love to see the pictures of fathers being so attentive to their daughters, holding them gently but securely. The daughters are smiling as they see their fathers smiling down at them. This is a picture of how our Heavenly Father dotes on us. He loves each one of us unendingly. God “loves us with an everlasting love” (Jeremiah 31:3 KJV). A good father displays many of the traits of God our Father.

John 3:16 is the verse we learn to quote as a child. Sometimes loses its meaning when we hear it so much. But the weight and meaning of this verse should never be taken lightly. “For God SO loved the world, that He gave His one and ONLY Son, that whosoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life” (emphasis added by author). A loving father who knows Christ loves their children with a Christ-like love, willing to protect them at all costs. The parable in Matthew 18 shows us the Father’s love toward each one of us. He leaves the ninetynine and searches for the lost sheep and rejoices over it once it is found.

A father who is in tune with his children knows what they like and gives good gifts when their birthdays come around. God knows the desires of our hearts before we even ask. We are His children. He longs to give us good things. James 1:17 KJV says, “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights.”God doesn’t always give us material things like an earthly father does, but His gifts are everlasting. He gives us His Holy Spirit to reside within us. He grants us forgiveness when we ask. 1 John 1:9-10 KJV says “He is faithful and just to forgive our sins,” when we confess them to Him. He gives us mercy every time the sun comes up. “His mercies are new every morning and great is His faithfulness” (Lamentations 3:2223). He also gives us grace. 2 Corinthians 12:9 assures us that His grace is sufficient for all our needs. God, through Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross, gives us the gift of going to Heaven if we believe on Him (see John 5:24).

The comparisons could go on and on between God the Father and a Christian father, but what about those children who suffer abuse at their father’s hand? These fathers leave not only scars and bruises on the outside but on the souls of children which can never heal without the love and healing hand of God. Children in these circumstances are

made to feel unworthy as individuals, but God sees us as a special treasure. Ephesians 6:4 warns fathers to not provoke children to anger by the way they treat them but instead to bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord.

There is a praise song we sing at church called, “Good, Good Father.” There’s a line in it I especially like, that says, “So, I run to the Father again and again and again.” It is a promise that when we mess up and go astray, like the Prodigal Son (see Luke 15), we can run back to the Father. When we need healing from hurt inflicted upon us or when we need to feel His comfort, we can run to Him. He will always be the Father who loves us and welcomes us with open arms again and again and again.

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.

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Mama’s Broom and the Battle of the Dirty Bottoms

by Charles Finney

In a house filled with chaos and laughter, there lived a remarkable woman named Mama. She was a force to be reckoned with, armed with her trusty broom, and a heart full of love. Mama's broom wasn't just an ordinary cleaning tool; it was her battle gear, her weapon in the never-ending war against dirt and dust.

Mama would put on her imaginary armor every morning, ready to face the challenges that lay ahead. She would tie her apron tight around her waist, proclaiming it as her battle skirt. With a twinkle in her eye, she would declare, "Today, we march into battle, my army of the Lord!"

Her children would giggle at Mama's theatrics, but they knew better than to underestimate her. Mama was a force of nature. She had a special talent for cleaning out more than just dirt and dust. When her kids misbehaved, Mama's battle gear transformed into a tool of discipline. With a swift flick of her broom, she would sweep away their mischievousness and restore order in the household.

Mama's powers didn't stop there. She possessed a vast arsenal of Bible verses that she would use to encourage her little soldiers. As she scrubbed the floors, she would sing hymns and recite verses like "Put on the full armor of God" and "The Lord is my strength and my shield." Mama believed in the power of faith and the strength it provided in times of need.

One day, Mama faced an epic battle of a different kind. It seemed that dirt and dust had formed an alliance with her children's misbehavior, creating an army that threatened to overthrow her meticulously clean kingdom. The little soldiers were running wild, leaving trails of crumbs and toys in their wake.

Undeterred, Mama called upon her army of the Lord. She put on her battle gear, sweeping and singing, reciting Bible verses like a seasoned warrior. With each swipe of her broom, she conquered the invading forces of messiness. The children, intrigued by Mama's determination, joined her in the fight. Together, they created a formidable army, armed with dustpans and feather dusters.

As they battled their way through the chaos, Mama's broom became a symbol of strength and love. It wasn't just about cleanliness; it was about teaching her children discipline, responsibility, and the importance of a tidy home. Mama's broom became a beacon of hope, a reminder that even the smallest tasks could be tackled with bravery and humor.

At long last, Mama and her army emerged victorious. The house was once again a sanctuary of order and cleanliness. The children, exhausted but proud, snuggled up to Mama, their hero. She held them close, whispering stories of her battles, weaving tales of bravery and silliness.

The legend of Mama's Broom has lived on, passed down through the generations. It became a cherished family story, a reminder that even in the midst of chaos, a touch of humor and a heart full of love can conquer any mess. Mama's broom, her battle gear, had become a symbol of strength, faith, and the unbreakable bond between a mother and her children. It wasn't just about sweeping away dirt and dust; it was about sweeping away the worries and troubles of life, leaving behind a clean slate for love and laughter to flourish. They continued to march forward, ready to face whatever messiness life threw their way, armed with Mama's broom and the unwavering belief that with love, laughter, and trust in God, they could conquer anything.

Charles Finney—minister of inspirational Good News, retired various positions and industries, management and operational, freelance writer, author of “Grandpa-Good News From The Good Feel Cornfield.” Writings are a remembrance of family, farm life and church upbringing to be a blessing to all!

Cleveland Church Directory

Anglican

Mission Cleveland

1165 Church St SE, Cleveland, TN 37311

Apostolic

First Apostolic Church Of Cleveland

4859 Freewill Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37312

(229) 343-6880

Assembly of God

The Collectives Church

1976 Westland Dr SW, Cleveland, TN 37311

(423) 641-0193

Triune Assembly

301 Sunset Drive

Cleveland, TN 37312

Baptist

Antioch Baptist Church

2807 Old Alabama Rd. SW

McDonald, TN 37353

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

Covenant Baptist Church

249 Calhoun Rd SE, Cleveland, TN 37323

(423) 559-2653

Dalton Pike Baptist Church

3055 Benton Pike NE, Cleveland, TN 37323

(423) 472-7606

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

New Salem Baptist Church

175 Ladd Springs Rd, Cleveland, TN 37323

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 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

357 Highway 64

Ocoee, TN 37361

(423) 338-4292

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 Christ

North Bradley Church of Christ

1510 Stuart Road NE, Suite 207

Cleveland, TN 37312

(423) 473-3298

Church of God

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

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 Community Church

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 Springs Methodist Church

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

Mt. Zion Methodist Church

7223 Georgetown Rd Cleveland, TN 37312

Pleasant Grove Community Church

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

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

Revolution Life Church

1525 Jones Ave SW, Cleveland, TN 37311

(423) 310-7287

Full Gospel House of Prayer

1500 Wildwood Ave.

Cleveland, TN

Set Free Christian Fellowship

1175 King Edwards Ave.

Cleveland, TN

Cleveland, TN 37312

(423) 476-8133

Church At Grace Point

2595 Old Freewill Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37312

(423) 728-5050

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

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

Jacob’s Tent Fellowship

1080 Montgomery Ave NE, Cleveland, TN 37311

Eleven22 Church

1701 South Lee Hwy

Cleveland, TN 37311

(423) 488-4526

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 Stones Church

4165 Peerless Rd NW

Cleveland, TN 37312

Living Word Church

930 25th Street NW

Cleveland, TN 37311

(423) 339-3028

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

Tri-State Cowboy Church

200 Natures Trail SW, McDonald, TN 37353 (Building 3)

(423) 303-8954

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

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,

Mount Zion Prayer Center

650 25th Street NW

Cleveland, TN 37312

(423) 478-5044

New Life Bible Church

155 S Ocoee St, Cleveland, TN 37311

(423) 472-3882

Redemption To The Nations

2750 Keith Street NW, Cleveland, TN 37312

(423) 591-7886

Restoration Fellowship

211 Trewhitt Dr SE, Cleveland, TN 37323

(423) 479-4249

Rock Bridge Community Church

3635 Georgetown Rd, Cleveland, TN 37312

(423) 641-1485

The Sanctuary

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

Tell Someone

by Stephanie Brown-Daniels

One thing that most believers can agree on is the importance of sharing our faith. Jesus said in Matthew 28:19-20 NIV “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, v 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” While most of us agree that sharing our faith is important, there are some who shy away from talking to people about Christ. It can be intimidating to speak up in today's world where some try to paint Christianity as narrow-mindedness or even hate. This is so untrue. The Gospel is the ultimate message of love and acceptance. Jesus died so that all would be forgiven of their sins and have eternal life.

There are many ways to share our faith. My church has a witnessing team of which I was a part for many years. This organized event taught me many good strategies for sharing my faith. One thing we always did was start with prayer. I believe the Holy Spirit speaks freely through believers. It's a good idea to pray and be ready to flow in the Spirit. Another thing I learned was not to overwhelm people. Going out in groups of two or three is more than enough. Then, we would simply engage people in conversation. People are typically friendly and open to casual conversation. The conversations always led to asking them about their relationship with Jesus Christ. Sometimes just asking someone if they know what happens to them after death

sparks enough conversation to get them to realize their need for a Savior.

Finally, I think it’s always a good idea to be ready to share your personal testimony. You never know how God will use your experience to touch the heart of someone. The person you take the time to minister to may not have much time left to make a decision. James 4:13-14 NKJV reminds us, “Come now, you who say, ‘Today or

tomorrow we will go to such and such a city, spend a year there, buy and sell, and make a profit’; whereas you do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away.” Be courageous in sharing your faith. It may be at the grocery store, gas station, work, or at the park, but someone in your path needs to hear the Good News that Jesus is Lord. God wants to use you!

Stephanie Daniels is a dedicated HR Manager based in Virginia with a deep love for the Lord. Her faith drives her passion for writing, and she has penned three self-published books that aim to inspire and uplift readers on their spiritual journeys. Her titles include Grace Growing Up, Overcoming Eve, and Restoring Hearts. Stephanie’s writing not only offers a unique perspective on life’s challenges but also encourages readers to seek the Lord’s guidance and wisdom. Her engaging and heartfelt prose resonates with people from all walks of life, drawing them closer to their faith, and fostering a deeper relationship with God.

Don’t Neglect Your Marriage

by Rachel Smith

When my boys were little, my husband used to always say, “Let’s go on a cruise, just me and you.” My reply was always no because I didn’t want to leave the kids. I had the perspective that one day the kids would be grown, and we would have plenty of time to travel with just the two of us. What I didn’t realize was that our marriage needed it more than I knew. When our marriage hit rock bottom in 2014, God opened my eyes and showed me how I had neglected my marriage in so many ways. I did what a lot of moms do without even realizing it, I put the kids first. Every weekend I was at a beauty pageant or a baseball game, and hardly ever thought about a date night. All my money went to buying the kids things they wanted or investing in their future, without thinking twice about investing in our marriage.

The Bible says “Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from Him” (Psalm 127:3 NIV). Children are indeed a blessing from the Lord, but we were never meant to put them above our spouses. When Adam was alone in the garden, he was given Eve as a companion and help mate, not a child. Studies show that many parents will use their kids to fulfill the needs they are lacking in their marriage. If you spend all your time with your kids, you communicate with them more than your spouse, you have more physical touch with them than with your spouse, and they are your primary focus, that could be you.

Life is all about balance, and I believe according to the Word the proper balance is God first, your spouse second, and then your children. Every time I hear of a couple preparing for their first child, my advice is always the same: don’t neglect each other when the child comes. As a marriage counselor, I have seen more affairs happen when a couple has small children. Now obviously kids need a lot

of care and a lot of attention, so you don’t want to neglect them either, but your spouse should be a priority. The key is making sure you still plan for alone time with your spouse whether it’s a date night at your favorite restaurant, or putting the kids to bed early so you can watch Netflix and chill. Your kids need to see that you two make time for each other. They may whine a little when you’re giving each other attention, but your kids need to see what a healthy marriage looks like. If your kids' sports and activities are

keeping you from having time alone with your spouse, then your kids are too busy. I would encourage you to pray and ask God to show you if you’ve gotten out of balance in any way when it comes to your marriage and your children. Our two boys have now moved out of the house, and I’m thankful that my husband and I didn’t stop investing in our marriage. Love your kids, raise your kids, but don’t neglect your marriage in the process.

Rachel Smith is the founder of Transformed Wife, a non-profit organization that helps others learn God’s design for marriage. She hosts local conferences and retreats to help strengthen couples, and travels to speak all over the world. She has been married to her husband, Richard Smith, for 16 years. www.transformedwife.com.

The PIE Center

It all started with a dream. American Uniform was once the largest manufacturing facility in Bradley County. In 2006, American Uniform closed the doors to its facility in Bradley County which left a strong, sound building unoccupied. In July 2017, Bradley County purchased the building establishing the first milestone toward the creation of the PIE (Partnerships in Industry and Education) Center. After 6 years, the center fully opened to students in January of 2023. The PIE Center Director, Brittany Cannon, states, “We realized after starting, this project was a lot bigger than any of us had anticipated. It would not have been possible without Him. As a result of that we have scriptures written on the inside of the walls and hidden crosses all throughout the building itself. We also had numerous people volunteer to come pray over our new adventure.”

Dr. Linda Cash, Director of Schools, explains, “Bradley County’s vision of growing students and building futures is at the heart of the PIE Innovation Center’s purpose. The PIE Innovation Center will create innovative student experiences through collaboration with business, industry,

and non-profit organizations which will change the learning path for students by providing experiential learning in STEM, embedded workplace learning experiences, and the promotion of design thinking. This 273,000 square foot building will incorporate STEM, career and technical education programming, and partner leases that provide work-related experience and also a home for the GOAL Academy. Bradley County’s unique approach to combining industry and education under one roof allows for the development of a labor pool that will impact the quality of life for students and employers.”

What makes up the PIE Center?

The PIE Innovation Center is a unique complex that will use a K-J model for students through exposure beginning in elementary and ending in upper level high school classes housed on campus. The PIE Innovation Center will create an intensive, strategic student experience through collaboration with business, industry, and nonprofit organizations by housing them all under one roof. This educational experience will give students a vision for their future through embedded work-based

learning and experiential learning in STEM, changing learning pathways, and promoting design thinking. Education and workforce development promote the concept of teamwork and collaboration. The PIE Innovation Center truly makes this happen by providing students within our region:

• on-site business settings to engage in real-world work experiences;

• the necessary skills to be college and career-ready;

• state-of-the-art educational opportunities in CTE focus areas of welding, machining, audio visual production, mechanical electrical plumbing, medium heavy truck technology, mechatronics, chemical technology, Information Technology, advanced health sciences, and work-based learning opportunities;

• post-secondary educational opportunities: industry certifications, dual credits, dual enrollments Drive to 55 and EPSOs

This initiative center will support the Drive to 55 campaign to increase the number of Tennesseans with post-secondary credentials to 55 percent by the year 2025 through the perfect combination of revolutionary high school training, post-secondary/college-bearing courses, industry credentialing, and workforce development skills which will bridge the gap between business/ industry and education as well as lead to more college and career ready students. According to the Drive to 55 Pathways to Postsecondary Report, students engaged in Early Postsecondary Opportunities (EPSOs) are more likely to enroll seamlessly into postsecondary programs and

succeed in programming after high school. Advanced Manufacturing classes in the innovation center will provide dual credit, dual enrollment, and industry certification linking students to college coursework while in high school.

The PIE Center enables students to choose their own learning path by connecting students with the people, experiences, and opportunities to succeed as an industry leader. The PIE Center’s location is situated conveniently for Chattanooga, Knoxville, and Nashville areas giving the Center reach beyond the county and the state.

For more information see their website: bcspie.org.

Why I Love These Lyrics

by MaryLee Carr

This song has been an anchor for me for most of my life. Whenever I feel anxious or unsure, there are two phrases from this song that always comfort me: "All I have needed, Thy hand has provided." And, "Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow, blessings all mine with 10,000 beside."

Thomas Obediah Chisholm wrote over 1,200 poems during his lifetime. For most of his adult life, he dealt with ill health and experienced poverty. When asked about his situation, he replied, "God has given me many wonderful displays of His providing care, which have filled me with astonishing gratefulness."

In 1923, he was inspired by Lamentations 3:22-23 to write the text for this hymn. “It is of the Lord's mercies that we are not consumed because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is Thy faithfulness” (Lamentations 3:22-23 KJV).

Repeating these lyrics either in my mind, during my devotion time, or whispering them softly—anywhere, any time—always brings me comfort, peace, and assurance that God loves me so very much and will always provide faithfully. I invite you to try this for yourself.

Great Is Thy Faithfulness

Lyrics by Thomas Obediah Chisholm

Great is Thy faithfulness, O God my Father

There is no shadow of turning with Thee Thou changest not, Thy compassions, they fail not As Thou hast been, Thou forever will be.

Refrain:

Great is Thy faithfulness.

Great is Thy faithfulness. Morning by morning new mercies I see.

All I have needed, Thy hand hath provided.

Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me.

Summer and winter and springtime and harvest, Sun, moon, and stars in their courses above, Join with all nature in manifold witness, To Thy great faithfulness, mercy, and love.

Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth, Thine own dear presence to cheer and to guide, Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow. Blessings all mine with 10,000 beside.

Children Are A Gift

by Brenda Dedmon

We read in Proverbs 127:3 The Voice “Children are a gift from God. They are His reward.” God gave you a beautiful gift in your child. He also gave you the responsibility of rearing your child to become all that God created them to be. As parents, you have the greatest influence in nurturing your child and enabling them the ability to discover the way God created them.

This would be a daunting expectation if you were left to yourself to accomplish this task. However, God’s gift comes with an instruction manual for you to follow. The first instruction comes in Proverbs 22:6 The Voice “Teach a child how to follow the right way; even when he is old, he will stay on course.” So as parents how do you know the right path to teach?

• Step Two: Recognize the unique person God gave to you. “For I am Your unique creation, filled with wonder and awe. You have approached even the smallest details with excellence; Your works are wonderful” (Psalm 139:14 The Voice).

In the gospel of Luke, we read how Jesus grew. It is a blueprint for Step Two in nurturing your child. “And Jesus kept on growing—in wisdom, in physical stature, in favor with God, and in favor with others” (Luke 2:52 The Voice).

• Wisdom = Mentally You will begin to see at an early age, the mental growth of your child. Continue to provide appropriate challenges based on their gifts and interest.

• Physical Stature = Physically From their first cry, the journey begins. A child grows more in the first six years of their life than in any other six-year period. Helping your child develop physically offers great opportunities for family connections.

• Favor with God = Spiritually Your personal example in your spiritual journey is the best way to teach about God. A powerful teaching tool is allowing children to see how God’s love is demonstrated through your love and actions.

Jesus was questioned about what the greatest commandment was. Matthew wrote in his gospel that he replied: "Jesus (quoting Scripture): “Love the Eternal One your God with all your heart and all your soul and all your mind.” This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is nearly as important, “Love your neighbor as yourself.” The rest of the law, and all the teachings of the prophets, are but variations on these themes" (Matthew 22: 37-40 TLB). It may sound too simple to have only two steps. However, in this scripture, Jesus expressed it in two steps. So where do you start?

• Step One: Obey these commandments in your life. In your parenting journey, all your choices should come from a place of love.

• Favor with Others = Emotionally and Socially In developing their potential to make friends, being aware of others' needs, and feeling secure through your love you will enable them to grow in both areas.

Conversations Starters:

• Read Psalm 139:14. Compare baby pictures of yourselves and your child. Share how God made each person special.

• Remind your child that God gave them as a gift. Share through conversation and pictures favorite memories as a family.

• Read 1 John 4:7. Discuss God’s love for everyone and the ways He has shown love to your family. Discuss ways you can share love with others.

Written by Rev. Brenda Dedmon, retired director of Children’s Learning Center, First Baptist of Dalton and an avid Bama fan.

Backward, Forward, Upward

by Jan Merop

Isat back in my beach chair and watched the kite soaring in the sky as my husband Ken maneuvered it this way and that. The wind caught it and swirled it around. Then other wind currents gave it a push and it seemed to skip through the air.

Against the backdrop of a clear blue sky, my eyes and mind remained focused and enthralled. No worries intruded. No future plans crowded in. This simple task of upward gazing held my attention.

That gets me thinking about looking backward or forward for too long. Looking back can be good and bad. It can remind us of God’s goodness and faithfulness; tickle our funny bones over some laughable memory; and, build hopeful stepping stones into the future. Or, it can trap us in memories that hold us captive and don’t allow us to move on and grow.

Looking forward also has its pros and cons. As we grasp God’s vision and purpose for our lives, we can’t help but look ahead. We make plans, set goals, and dream about the fulfillment that’s just around the bend.

But, if we get too caught up in forward thinking there is a tendency to miss the present. And, in turn, we miss God’s presence today. We can become discontent because we don’t see things falling into place the way we expected they would.

That’s why it’s best to look upward. Lean back and rest in God. He will take care of the past and use it for his purposes when we give it all to him. God will direct the current to propel us into the future at just the right time.

For now, He is preparing and equipping us to be ready when that day arrives.

The best part of upward gazing is focusing on the Lord Jesus Christ. The Bible says in Acts 17: 25b NKJV, “He gives to all life, breath, and all things.” And then in verse 28, it says, “For in Him we live and move and have our being.”

Therefore, as we focus on Him and not let other things intrude and rob us of joy, peace, and purpose, we are vessels through whom He will work. As it says in Romans 8:28 NKJV, “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.”

So give God your past, present, and hopes for the future. Upward gazing! That’s the best. Selah

Jan has been writing her weekly inspirational column, Pause… and Consider, for over 30 years, joyfully encouraging others in their Christian walk. She enjoys reading, cooking/baking, sewing, and music. New to Cleveland, she and her husband Ken enjoy walking and hiking in God’s marvelous creation. They have three married sons and five grandchildren and belong to the Church at Grace Point.

A New Way To Drink Coffee and Change Lives

Do dreams really come true? Even after three years? six years? At the Salvation Army in Cleveland, TN, yes dreams do come true! This team dreamed of a coffee truck to extend the reach of the Coffee House and community building on Inman Street. The truck represents an opportunity to take what they have become known for outside the limitations at the physical location. It enables this service organization to have a presence at community events, at special occasions for members of their broader family, and to create new relationships with new friends who do not yet know who they are or what they do. It also represents a chance to increase financial support that sustains all the valuable youth programs and leadership development. Sergeant Ruth Forgey who serves as the Salvation Army Corps Administrator adds, “The truck represents the ability

to expand our reach to the entire community and to give others the opportunity to re-invest in the valuable work we get to do.”

When will this dream-come-true-on-wheels be seen in traveling around the Cleveland area? Soon! There are several steps to prepare the truck to house a coffee station and of course the required inspections.

They hope to be present for all of the community milestones- including their upcoming music festival, Phoenix Fest. Each year, Inman Coffee celebrates their birthday with an outdoor music festival, free to the community! The addition of the coffee truck means that the celebration can grow, and will be moving to Greenway Park on Oct. 7th! Featuring an incredible lineup of local, regional, and nationally acclaimed acts: Inman is proud to welcome Clark Beckham, Jordan Smith, Social Club Misfits, and Sanctus Real- make your plans to see the new truck in action there!

As the weeks go by, be on the lookout for the Coffee Truck. You might see it parked in some public spot anywhere in town or at various companies during shift change. Ruth Forgey explains, “We want to develop regular customers and to be an active part of their lives. Once we are rolling, we will publish and update our schedule of locations on our social media: @inmancoffee on Facebook or Instagram.”

The van itself is a story all its own. Once upon a time, the van served the Salvation Army as a Disaster Canteen. For twenty-plus years in dozens of regional and national disasters, it served communities bringing warm meals, creating a place to gather, and serving hope as well as nourishment. As the upkeep of the cooking equipment onboard became more costly, it was retired from service. A wonderful officer in The Salvation Army had heard about the Cleveland team’s concept. The idea was to take a decommissioned Disaster Canteen, strip it of its traditional equipment,

and install coffee truck-appropriate equipment. A Salvation Army officer on the extended team knew of the dream and then learned of the decommissioned canteen. He arranged for us to receive the truck, and the rest is history! And even more history will be made as it travels the Cleveland area serving the community. Whom will the coffee truck primarily serve? Everyone! And that includes folks who just want a simple cup of coffee as well as those who need their dreams nurtured and encouraged. You see, that’s the goal of this concept: To serve great, award-winning coffee while building community with a loving, family-like atmosphere as the team reflects the love of Christ in this new expression.

Night and Day

“They are new every morning: great is Thy faithfulness” (Lamentations 3:23 KJV).

by Denise M. Shahan

Iawake before dawn, unusually early. The house is eerily dark and quiet as The Hubs and our yellow lab, Bailey, sleep oh so peacefully. Padding quietly through to the kitchen, I hear the coffee calling my name. Only the essential lights switch on with my mission - “Do Not Disturb.”

On the front porch with my steaming cup of coffee, I’m sheltered beneath a perfect canopy of trees over the yard. I take my seat in the big wicker rocker, remaining still as the new day dawns. The purple-black draping of

The peace of these moments on the porch is amazing as I hear other life awakening all around. A woodpecker echoes a rapid-fire, almost machine gun, pecking on a hardwood about a block away. Distantly, an owl calls for its mate with a familiar “hoo-hoo-hoohoooooo.” Dozens of birds sing their own solos in greeting the dawn, each with its melody as sweet as the next. I sit so quietly sipping my coffee that the wildlife becomes oblivious to my being there. The sun rises behind the house and causes the sky to peek through more brilliantly clear blue by the minute. There is a chill in the early morning air; however, the chill is short-lived and no bother to me. The sweltering heat of summer mornings isn’t too far away. I am enjoying this morning so greatly.

Lights come on, one room at a time, in the surrounding houses of the neighborhood. Knowing most of the neighbors, some will work around their homes, walk in the morning coolness, go to school, and jobs. Me? I remain on the porch just a bit longer! Squirrels and chipmunks soon arise, scampering through the trees and yard, foraging for their hidden treasures. Deer arrive later in the day to feast on corn and lick the salt block The Hubs supplies them.

darkness slowly changes to grays, then brilliant greens, as the azure sky peeks into view just beyond the huge trees that make this place home. I begin to hear the faint call of chickadees and cardinals just while the shroud of nighttime gives way to a sunny, clear day. One brave chickadee flies in for breakfast nibbles of the seedcake hanging from the porch ceiling, eyeing me warily. I remain still, fearful of disturbing this small creature’s repast. A bright red male cardinal waits his turn from a low tree limb nearby, when suddenly, the chickadee does a swooping fly-over just above my head inside the porch and disappears around the front of the house. The fly-over was not a threat; instead, it felt as though the little chickadee was giving me a greeting. Looking back at the seedcake, I see the cardinal has wasted precious little time for his chance for breakfast.

“Thank You, Lord, for the beauty of Your world. Thank You for the grace in life You provide and the soliloquy of this blessed morning.” The shame of sleeping late most mornings and missing this wonder of a new day’s dawning – another day of life and whatever it holds – fills me with regret. This morning blessed me with such joy and gratitude. However, I know that this morning is special. I know most of the coming days will bring mornings when I sleep through the wonders I’ve witnessed today. God is good. How can anyone say that He does not exist? If only they had a morning like mine!

Denise M. Shahan who considers herself a “senior” senior will soon graduate college at 71 years of age. Denise, an awarding-winning writer, and her husband Jim along with their yellow labrador retriever Bailey live in LaFayette, GA. The Shahans are active members of LaFayette First Baptist Church.

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Nurturing Children’s Hearts

by Heather Medley

As devoted caregivers, we hold our children's wellbeing close to our hearts. From tending to their physical and emotional health to nurturing their spiritual growth, we strive to create an environment where they can flourish. Just like a skilled gardener tends to plants, we can cultivate our children's hearts with care, attunement, and a deep understanding of their needs.

When it comes to our children's emotional health, understanding their unique needs can be challenging. Just as a gardener adjusts the conditions for a plant's growth,

causes behind their behaviors. Self-care is important for caregivers so that we are able to respond instead of react. As we do this, we can create an environment where their emotional well-being can thrive.

we must often modify conditions and approaches to meet our children where they are. Are they yearning for more connection? Do they need outlets for self-expression? Have recent changes impacted their sense of emotional safety?

By observing their behavior, we can gain insight into their inner world and identify their needs. Just like every plant is different, every child is different too.

A child's behavior is a precious gift, even when it may initially seem troubling. It serves as valuable information, a form of communication, guiding us toward what they require for healthy growth. Instead of reacting with anger or punishment, we are called as caregivers to embrace a mindset that seeks to understand and address the root

While each child is unique, they do all share universal needs. Connection, self-expression, and emotional safety are foundational pillars that contribute to their emotional growth. By starting with these shared needs, we can tailor our parenting approach to provide what they require. Building a secure relationship based on love and trust lays the groundwork for their emotional wellbeing. We must create a safe space for them to express their feelings, knowing that they are heard, understood, and valued. In Isaiah 40:11, we find inspiration from the image of a shepherd caring for his flock. The shepherd gathers the lambs in his arms, carrying them close to his heart, gently leading those with young. This biblical verse beautifully encapsulates the role of caregivers in the lives of children. Just as a shepherd tends to each lamb’s unique needs, we are called to provide individualized care, rooted in love, compassion, and faith. Attunement and responsiveness become our guiding lights as we strive to understand and meet the emotional cues and needs of our children. By embracing kindness, empathy, and understanding, we forge strong bonds with our little ones, fostering their emotional well-being and growth.

Let us embrace the role of a caregiver with love, compassion, and attentiveness, knowing that by tending to their unique needs, we are faithfully fulfilling our calling. May our parenting journey be guided by faith, fortified by grace, and rooted in the everlasting love of God.

Heather Medley is a licensed professional counselor, speaker, and published author. She loves neuroscience research papers, bargain shopping, and laughter. She resides in Rome with her delightful kiddos and steady husband.

Tennessee Christian Preparatory School

Tennessee Christian Preparatory School (TCPS) is a preschool age three through twelfth-grade interdenominational school offering a college preparatory academic program for students. Located in Cleveland, Tennessee, TCPS integrates the Christian faith into the curriculum and the daily life of students. Tennessee Christian is fully accredited through Cognia. Tennessee Christian Preparatory School provides a quality college preparatory education, from a Biblical worldview, and equips students for tomorrow’s challenges by educating the mind and the soul.

TCPS is dedicated to the education of the whole child as a Christian and as a citizen. With the support and cooperation of home, school, church, and community, TCPS provides an environment where each student is given the opportunity to reach his/her greatest potential spiritually, intellectually, emotionally, and socially. The school serves the families of Cleveland, Bradley County, and surrounding communities by providing a quality independent school education from a Biblical worldview which will challenge students to share fully the gifts that have been given to them by God; to grow in grace and wisdom; to develop spiritually, academically, physically, socially and artistically; and to become people of character who value and improve the world they inherit.

In 1997 a group of parents committed to Christian education founded the Tennessee Christian Academy in Cleveland, Tennessee. With continued growth and support through the first decade, Dr. Bill Balzano took the lead as headmaster in 2007. Under Dr. Balzano’s leadership, TCA’s strategic plan expanded to provide not only a Christcentered education to the families in the surrounding area but also to do it with academic excellence. The school’s name was changed in 2008 to reflect this new commitment to a college preparatory education from a Christian worldview – Tennessee Christian Preparatory School. Dr. Balzano retired as headmaster in late 2017. As interim Head of School, in 2020 Mrs. Patricia Sluder managed the relocation of Tennessee Christian to a newly remodeled campus at

the site of the former First Baptist Family Life Center. In August of 2023, Jared Tilley became the Head of School at Tennessee Christian, continuing the mission and vision of Christ-centered education. Jared Tilley, Head of School, and Patricia Sluder, Board of Trustees President, are committed to excellence in education rooted in a foundation of faith.

The Learning Cottage at Tennessee Christian Preparatory School offers high-quality preschool care and pre-kindergarten instruction for ages 3-5. The mission is to foster growth in TCPS students spiritually, socially, emotionally, and academically. Students learn through center-based play, large group, and small group instruction. Due to small class sizes, teachers can give students what they need and build meaningful relationships in the classroom.

Tennessee Christian's Lower, Middle, and Upper School students are pursuers of excellence in academics, the arts, and athletics.

At TCPS, promoting the Arts plays a vital role in the commitment to the education of TCPS students. “We seek to guide students in the discovery of their artistic gifts and encourage their growth and confidence to be able to share their gifts with their peers, within our school, and with our community as a whole. We want students to acknowledge that all good things come from the Father and to use the gifts that He has given us to ultimately bring glory to Him. We offer an array of Fine Arts opportunities for our students from PreK-3 to twelfth grade,” explains President Sluder. She adds, “Tennessee Christian also offers a well-rounded athletic program, including sports, beginning in the elementary grades and continuing through high school.”

For more information, see the school’s website www.tennesseechristian.org, or the school’s Facebook page www.facebook.com/tcpsk12.

TENNESSEE CHRISTIAN PREPARATORY SCHOOL

Scattered Armor

Declarations from a Wounded Warrior

by Sheila Bird

When I think of a soldier, I think of someone strong, courageous, and sold out to their cause. Someone who would stop at nothing to defend their fellow man. Soldiers go to battle with their heads up, their shoulders square and their backs straight, because they’ve trained long and hard to win at any cost. They’re willing to accept the call of duty from their commanding officer even if it means stepping onto foreign land and facing the unknown.

My sword may have slipped from my hand, and my helmet may be sideways on my head but I will always be a proud soldier of the cross. In spite of my scattered armor, I know this war-torn vessel of flesh I walk around in carries within it the answer to all life’s troubles. God’s Word is woven into the very tapestry of my soul. I am His, for now, and for all eternity.

I love the way Jesus puts our battles into perspective. In 1 John 4:4 NIV, He says, “You are of God, little children, and have overcome them, because greater is He who is in you than he who is in the world.” If you are fighting a battle today, remember there is one who is closer than a brother. Jesus will never leave you. He is eternal life to all those who believe and trust in Him. Psalm 46:1 KJV is true, “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.”

I’ve never been on a real battlefield, but I know all too well what it feels like to wake up one day and find myself staring down a life-threatening opponent. When this happens, I know exactly what to do. As a soldier for heaven’s cause, I secure every piece of my spiritual armor like Ephesians 6:10-18 tells me to, and I go to war with confidence. I fight in faith because my Bible tells me in Romans 8:37 that I can be an overwhelming conqueror through Christ Jesus. I fight boldly, with honor through Word, deed, and passionate prayer.

God is always teaching my hands to war, but I know all too well, that war is not for the faint of heart. Sometimes even the elite get injured in battle. Few soldiers come off the battlefield unscathed. I know what it’s like to experience loss and even defeat in this broken world. Some of my deepest wounds have come from friendly fire. But Genesis 50:20 tells me that He can take anything that was meant to harm me and use it to my advantage.

Hold fast child of God. Let Isaiah 54:17 NKJV be your battle cry. “No weapon formed against you shall prosper, and every tongue which rises against you in judgment you shall condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and their righteousness is from Me, Says the Lord.” Let Romans 8:31 NIV be a platform for your perseverance. It says, “If God be for us, who can be against us?”

Many soldiers have justly earned a Medal of Honor for their service to our country. None can surpass the reward that will someday be ours and we lay our armor down at the feet of Jesus, in exchange for a crown of righteousness as promised in II Timothy 4:8.

Until then, may we all find comfort and reassurance in John 16:33 NKJV, “These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.”

Sheila Bird is a recent widow and longtime resident of Cleveland, Tennessee. Her mission in life is to deliver hope and encouragement by writing and telling her own

Who He Says We Are

by DeWayne Hamby

“You are one pathetic loser!”

Back in 1994, as I navigated the new landscape of working on an Apple Macintosh computer, I figured out I could replace the normal “gong!” with a popular soundbite. I proudly chose Jim Carrey’s line from the comedy “Dumb and Dumber.” When installed, my computer would boot up with all the whizzes and whirs and finally belt out that famous insult. Then I would go about my day.

I chuckled for a day or two . . . and then I decided to change it back. My Mac was booting up to the boring old ‘gonging’ once again. Why? I suddenly realized I didn’t want that proclamation over my life every day, even if it was in jest and even if it was not meant for me. I just didn’t want to hear it anymore.

We are plagued with arrows of self-doubt and insecurities to such an extent that we really don’t need additional confirmation. Yet we get it everywhere we turn. We don’t measure up. We’re not worth what we thought we were. We’ll never be good enough.

But that’s not the truth. The Word says we are fearfully and wonderfully made (see Psalm 139:14). God says we are made in His image (see Genesis 1:27). And Jesus says we are “blessed” (see Matthew 5:3-10)!

In the battlefields of our minds, there is a raging war of words between who we are and who we think we are. Who we are is defined by the One who created us and who we think we are is often dictated by outside and inside voices. As we listen and entertain what those around us and even

the enemy of our souls says, it begins to change us into less than what we were intended to be.

I heard a story of a man who kept working into his twilight years at a fast-food restaurant. Some of the workers began asking him if he felt okay. “You sure look sick!” one would tell him and he would say he was okay but walk around with that hanging over him for the rest of his shift. The coworkers did this on a continual basis until it affected the man physically. He felt sick and could not come to work anymore. And the coworkers had more hours to add to their timecards.

Somewhere, someone told you something that made you stop doing something that you loved, maybe because they thought you weren’t any good at it. Have you ever thought about what your life would be if you ignored that advice and pressed ahead?

What if we listened to the Word and let God tell us who we are supposed to be? It’s a noisy planet out there, but as we walk closer with Him, as we pray and immerse ourselves in His word, we can hear His voice more clearly.

“My sheep hear my voice and I know them, and they follow me,” Jesus says in John 10:27 KJV.

As parents, we’re also on guard against a society that frequently tries to redefine what or who our children should be. There shouldn’t be any doubt about who they are. We stay in the Word, and we let God speak to them loudly –“You are a precious child of God, the apple of my eye.”

DeWayne Hamby is a longtime Christian journalist and the new executive director for Trek Thru Truth, an emerging children’s museum dedicated to inspiring and educating children about the Bible. For more information on how you can become involved, visit www.trekthruth.com.

Lessons from the Bluebird

by Leslie Bennett

We were taking a walk on a gloomy day, When a bluebird decided a visit to pay. He landed in a tree ahead, “Oh, look! It’s a bluebird,” we said. He seemed to feel our presence near, And ruffled his feathers without fear. What a sight he was high in the tree, As he sat up tall for us to see. His beauty held our steady gaze,

And reminded us of brighter days. Then, just like that, he flew away, To brighten someone else’s day.

God reminds us when we are weary That although days will be dreary, If we look to Him as we walk along, He will give us strength to carry on.

Leslie Bennett is a kindergarten assistant at Michigan Avenue School. She is a member of First Baptist Church and sings in the adult choir. She manages a blog at ohyeshedid.org.

A High “Steaks” Ministry: Jonah & Nineveh’s Cattle

God poses a unique and puzzling question to a reluctant prophet: “…and much cattle?” Cows?!

by Dr. Rob Debelak

Moses specified diplomatic protocol and martial conduct toward two categories of cities (Deuteronomy 20:10-15 & 20:16-18). The distinction rested on whether peace terms could be proposed. Offers could be extended to distant nations; if refused, the men engaged in battle while the women, children, and livestock were spared. However, enemies nearer the Promised Land were guaranteed no surrender terms and were subject to complete destruction.

Nineveh, the ancient evil city of Nimrod (Genesis 10:812), was thoroughly wicked (Jonah 1:2). It was a city of the Assyrian empire, a people known for brutality. Its day of accountability neared. As a distant city, God dispatched Jonah as His messenger (per Deuteronomy 20:10-15). Jonah protested in private passive aggression and later in a volatile verbal tirade (Ch 1, 4:1-4). He was keenly aware of God’s character (4:2) and unwilling to risk Nineveh’s pardon.

What Jonah wants is Deuteronomy 20:16-18 – stiff judgment for the ungodly. No negotiations, just sacred war. Nineveh’s catastrophic demise could parallel Joshua at Jericho, eradicating anything in the city that breathes (men, women, children, cattle, sheep, and donkeys; Joshua 6:21)! Ninevite destruction would be an equal opportunity judgment that did not discriminate, providing maximum chance for even animals to die for their country.

Had Jonah thought this through? Traversing the historical landscape, Jonah relives the Exodus: he is called; delivered through a water miracle; and shelters in the wilderness, etc. Despite his disobedience, he is spared when running in the opposite direction (Ch 1), delivered from a watery grave (Ch 2), and shaded from intense heat (Ch 4). He is sensitive to his calling (1:2) and discerns when judgment is averted (3:10). Remarkably, he has no room in his heart for others to experience God’s grace.

Taking the scenic route to Nineveh, he pronounces a brief, negative message (3:4), and the city repents (3:5). God’s ambassador is far from happy, and he retreats to the margins in self-imposed exile (4:5).

Inside the city, a nameless king prays in the dirt (3:6); his community fasts and prays; all are adorned in sackcloth (3:79) - even the cattle! Outside the city, the prophet sulks alone

on his high place. Jonah angrily vented his complaint (4:1–4), conceding God’s graciousness, compassion, patience, and rich mercy (quoting Exodus 34:6). Yet he proceeded to build a front-row seat to watch the (still hoped-for) fireworks (4:5). His blistering outburst (4:1–4) is countered with God’s command of heat (4:5-8). The lesson on mercy ends by calling attention to the cattle (3:7; 4:9–11).

Why cows? The last and the least are afforded esteem in God’s eyes. Jonah is challenged by the cattle question to rethink things from God’s perspective. Judgment is a matter of death or life. The teachable moment accents just how fragile and precious the gift of life is. It illuminates divine justice and eternal love for creation, in how God can punish (remember Jericho and the bush of 4:7) but also pity the ignorant (young) and even the lowliest cattle. Repentance accepts His terms of peace; His grace is a stay of execution. Using simple things to confound the wise, God calls Jonah’s hand with a meager plant and a few cows. Unintentionally, Jonah blessed the world with knowledge of God’s benevolence.

The episode concludes with a king, his people, and his nation’s livestock given a new lease on life. We still wait, though, for Jonah’s answer…Which is preferred…grace or judgment? [Just ask the herd!]

Dr. Rob Debelak is Professor of Bible at Lee University. He has taught at Lee University for 29 years and is a veteran of the U.S. Air Force. He and his family reside in Cleveland, TN.

What Satan Wants from You and How Fast He Works to Get It

by Rodney Jones

Satan wants from you exactly what he wanted from Eve: her soul. And he got her soul, at least for a while. He would have taken her to Hell with him had not God Himself shed innocent blood on her behalf. It only took Satan a matter of hours to get what He wanted!! Think about that: from perfection to corruption in hours! Make no mistake about it, Satan wants you dead, and worse still, he wants to drag you down to the pit.

their hearts.” He comes immediately because he knows that the Word of God itself is quick and powerful and sharper than any two-edged sword. (see Hebrews 4:12 KJV). The Word of God saves souls and transforms lives. Satan does not want that to happen. Therefore, he attacks quickly.

He wants your faith to fail. “Simon, behold Satan hath desired to have you… But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not” (Luke 22:31-33).

He wants to corrupt your mind (see 2 Corinthians 11:13).

He wants an advantage over you. “Lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for we are not ignorant of his devices” (2 Corinthians 2:9 KJV).

He wants to fill your heart. “why hath Satan filled thine heart?” (Acts 5:3 KJV).

He wants you to savor the wrong things. “get thee behind me, Satan … for thou savourest not the things that be of God” (Matthew 16:23 KJV).

He wants you to turn aside from the work of God. “For some are already turned aside after Satan” (1 Timothy 5:15 KJV)

He comes on the scene only 3 chapters from the beginning of the Bible and He continues tormenting mankind until 3 chapters from the end of the Bible. In between these chapters are thousands of years of deception, misery, and death. This fallen angel is vicious, feared by thousands, and hates you.

If you have not been saved, you are in incredible, eternal, danger. At death, you will wake up in a world that you cannot get out of. Lost forever. The good news is that if you are saved, you are beyond Satan’s eternal reach. But if he cannot have your soul, he will settle for your total destruction. Satan spends his time seeking whom to destroy. And how quickly does Satan work? His work is immediate! When God makes progress in the human soul, Satan comes immediately to take it away.

In Mark 4:15 KJV the Bible says, “….Satan cometh immediately, and taketh away the Word that was sown in

He wants you to speak things you ought not. “They learn to be idle … speaking things which they ought not” (1 Timothy 5:13-15 KJV).

He wants to take you captive. “who are taken captive by him at his will” ( 2 Timothy 2:26 KJV).

He wants you to give place (flinch, hesitate, re-consider). “Neither give place to the devil” (Ephesians 4:26-2 KJV).

How do we defeat Satan? The same way that Jesus defeated him, by using the Word of God. In the wilderness, Jesus said, “It is written, it is written, it is written!” So, read it, memorize it, preach it, teach it, quote it, post it in your house and Satan will be defeated!

Rodney Jones is a retired Police Officer and is presently a Housing and Residence Life staff member at the University of Tennessee, Chattanooga. Rodney is a member of Catoosa Baptist Tabernacle in Ringgold, Georgia.

It’s Okay to Be You

by Rhonda Cross

Little Joy was not like the other children in her class. Joy was smaller than the other children. She wore glasses to help her see. She also talked funny. Joy would find herself sitting and playing alone. Many times Joy would go home sad and defeated. She wished she was like the other boys and girls in her class. She often wondered why God made her different.

Joy would daydream about being a mighty warrior princess, that everyone looked up to her, and she had many friends. She would protect her friends and family from pirates. She also had a pet dragon named Jireh. Jireh would let Joy fly on his back. They would fly wherever she wanted to go. Her friends would beg Joy for a ride on Jireh. Together Joy and Jireh would fight off the pirates and save the day. Joy loved going on her adventures with Jireh. She wished she could share her adventures with a friend. Joy went home after school one day and prayed for God to give her a friend.

Two weeks went by, she still did not have a friend. Then one morning, her teacher introduced a new girl, “Good morning boys and girls. This is Lee.”

Ms. Stacy sat Lee next to Joy. “Joy, this is Lee. I want you to be her special friend and to show her around.” Joy was scared Lee would make fun of her and leave her like the other children did.

“Hi, I'm Lee.”

Hi, I'm Joy. It is nice to meet you, “Joy said with a nervous smile. Ms. Stacy announced recess time. Joy stood up and started walking towards the door to line up.

“Wait, Joy!” Lee called out. “I need your help.”

Joy stopped and stammered out, “You need my help?”

Lee explained, “Yes. I am blind. I need someone to

guide me.” Joy took Lee by the hand and led her toward the door.

Together Joy and Lee took off toward the playground. “Will you please push me on the swings, Joy?”

Joy was excited that Lee wanted to play with her. “Are you sure you don't want to play with the others, Lee?”

“No silly. I want to play with you,” Lee confirmed. Joy shared, “No one ever wants to play with me. I'm different.”

Lee replied, “Oh, Joy, you're not different. You are unique just like me. You're one-of-a-kind. My Sunday school teacher said God created me to do great things. He created you to do great things too. There's a reason we were made special. God set us apart. We are free to be ourselves. No one else can be me or you. I've learned, I am fearfully and wonderfully made. I am God's masterpiece and His little warrior.”

“Me too!” Joy shouted. “I like to pretend that I am God's warrior princess. I go on adventures with my dragon Jireh.”

“Oh, please take me on those adventures with you. I would love to hear them. Joy started telling Lee all her crazy adventures with Jireh. The girls laughed until recess was over.

Lee asked, “Joy, will you please tell me about another adventure tomorrow? I can't wait to hear it.”

Joy could not wait to share another adventure with Lee. Joy went home happy and thankful that God had answered her prayers. Joy realized that it was okay to be different from others. That's how God made her. God made her unique, and there is only one like her. She felt like a warrior princess after all!

Rhonda Cross is the author of Regarding JoyAnna Marie and a licensed minister through the Church of God. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Christian ministry and an associate degree in early childhood education. For 26 years, she has been teaching in Sunday schools, preschools, and elementary school settings. She is a devoted wife and mother to six children and one grandbaby. She has a passion for helping others.

If Love

by Judy Hood

Lord, if love could get you into heaven

My heart is bursting at the seams. I love you that is a given, To be with you is my dream.

If love could get you through those pearly gates, Like an eagle, I’d soar right in. I know life will really be great In a land where there is no sin.

Lord, if love could get you to the throne

To humbly bow before Your Majesty. I would bow, if even all alone

My heart would live out its greatest fantasy.

But the best thing of all, We know heaven is really real. It’s not a fantasy at all.

Oh, my heart be still!

Be Present

by Brian Johnson

Have you ever been talking to a friend and had your mind wander? Maybe they’re talking about something important, their family, or issues at work. They’re confiding in you because you have a close relationship and, even though you care, you can’t help but think about what happened at work that day or what you need to get at the grocery store. We all do that from time to time.

I’m a nurse and I’ll never forget an exercise I was asked to do at a conference. There were about 20 of us. We divided into groups of two. We had to stand up, face each other approximately a foot apart and just look into each other’s eyes while music was being played. We weren’t allowed to speak and, although it was only about a minute, it seemed like forever. The point was to teach us to be present with our patients. When we’re with them, focus on them and their problem, not what’s going on with us.

God knows our minds are prone to wander. Exodus 24:12 KJV says “And the LORD said unto Moses, Come up to me into the mount, and be there: and I will give thee tables of stone, and a law, and commandments which I have written; that thou mayest teach them.” I can’t imagine being in Moses’ shoes. He’s got over a million people he’s trying to lead, individuals coming to him daily with their problems, and they complain to him regularly about the things they don’t have. We all can be somewhere physically but not really there. God’s word is awesome, especially when we really pay attention to the words of scripture. God told Moses to be there, not just physically but mentally as well.

When you spend time with God in his word, are you there? Do you find your mind wandering, thinking about the day ahead or the argument you had?

In I Kings 19 KJV, Elijah didn’t hear God in the wind, the earthquake, or the fire but He was in a still, small voice. We must learn to get away from the noise of the world and focus on what God has to say to us. That still small voice.

At the end of verse 3, in the 4th Psalm, David says, “The LORD will hear when I call unto Him.” Verse 4 says “Stand

in awe, and sin not: commune with your own heart upon your bed, and be still. Selah.” When we call on God, He will speak to us but we need to be still. This verse ends with Selah, a word used to tell us to pause and reflect on what was just said. I know it may be difficult but it’s important for us to be present with the Lord when He’s speaking. Find time in your day when you can put the things of the world to the side so you can focus on Him. When you do, you’ll be amazed at how close your relationship with God can be.

Brian Edward Johnson is a deacon at his church, nurse and author of Behaving Wisely, One Man’s Journey from Betrayal to Blessing. He longs for Christians to trust God for every aspect of their lives.

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Perfect Timing

by Shelly McClanahan

It was my first time as director of the annual church day camp. I was young, enthusiastic, and ambitious. I wanted to make camp memorable for all involved. Our normal method of advertisement was word of mouth, return campers, and the occasional flyer posted at the local grocery store. However, I wanted to ramp things up, to attract as many kids as possible. So I mailed out leaflets to the community. Perhaps I underestimated the power of promotion because, on that first day, we had more children than we could handle!

The counselors (who were mostly high school students) were overwhelmed. I bounced from one group to the next, asking, “What do you need? How can I help?” The answer was the same everywhere: “We need more people to help.”

The cafeteria workers helped with groups during the times they served lunch. Our bus drivers helped with groups. We had all hands on deck. Still, we were shortstaffed. Just two more people would make all the difference. What could I do? I was at my wit's end.

Then I remembered what I should have done in the first place. I talked to God. As we are told in 1 Peter 5:7 NLT, “Give all your worries and cares to God, for He cares about you.” I prayed that night. I told God that I knew He could cause two people off the street to help if that was what He had in mind (although I hoped He had a better plan than that). Then I peacefully fell asleep.

The next morning as I entered the church offices, the phone was ringing. It was a friend of mine working with college students who came to the area as summer missionaries.

“One of my missionaries was going to help with a project today, but it’s been canceled. Would you mind if she came to help at your camp?”

When she showed up, she brought a friend. Two! God sent two people to help us and they returned every day for the rest of the week. I cried tears of relief, of joy, of surprise. But I shouldn't have been surprised, because God has all resources in His hands to provide for our needs.

When I reflect on that day camp, I see that in His own way and in His own time, God supplied workers, and through the whole ordeal He proved to a young, inexperienced leader that she didn’t need to lead as much as she needed to lean. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take” (Proverbs. 3:5-6 NLT).

Shelly McClanahan has worked as both an ESL teacher and ESL Program Coordinator in public schools in the United States and in international schools in Albania, South Korea, and England. She has also taught adult ESL in church programs in Tennessee and Georgia. She currently teaches middle school ESL near Nashville.

Friends Are Important

by Brenda Dedmon

It is important to have friends because they make our lives better. We read in the Bible about Jesus and his friends. We read about them fishing, going on boat rides, praying together, and enjoying meals together.

We read in the Bible, Jesus said, “ Love one another” (John 15:17 KJV). Jesus had friends whom He loved. He enjoyed being with them. One day Jesus and His friends were in Capernaum. Read the following story to discover what happened while Jesus was teaching at his friend's house.

There was a man who was sick and could not walk. He had to lie in bed all the time and could not even sit up. His friends would visit him and help him to do things because they loved their friend.

One day they came and told him they had heard about a man named Jesus who had been making sick people well. The sick man said to his friends, “I wish I could see Jesus and that He would make me well.” One of his friends told him, “Jesus is in our town. We should see Him.: The sick man said, “How can I go, I can’t walk.”

His friends wanted to help him so they told him they would carry him. One friend said, “We can each hold a corner of your mat and take you. Each friend picked up a corner of his mat and went down the street.

They came to the house where Jesus was telling people about God. The house was full of people and the street was full. They wondered how they could get their friend to Jesus. “I know,” said one of the friends. “We can carry our friend up the steps on the side of the house to the flat roof. Then we can make a big hole in the roof and lower him down right in front of Jesus.”

They decided that was a clever idea, so they took their friend up the steps. Then they begin to make a hole in the roof. They took the four pieces of rope and tied them to each corner of the mat. Slowly they let their friend down to the floor in front of Jesus.

Jesus was surprised. He looked at the sick man and said: “Stand up. Take your mat and walk.”

The man stood up. He could walk! He picked up his mat and started walking around. Jesus had made him well. He and his friends were so happy. They thanked God for making their friend well.

Did you enjoy that story? Here are some questions to help you review and remember:

• How did the sick man’s friends help him?

• How did they get him in the house to see Jesus?

• What did the man do after Jesus healed him?

• What did his friends do after Jesus healed their friend?

Jesus said to love one another.

• In what ways can you show love to your friends?

• What are ways you may help your friends?

Talk with your family about things your family can do to show appreciation to your friends. Remember the Bible verse John 15:17 KJV when Jesus said, “Love one another.” as you make your plans.

Written by Rev. Brenda Dedmon, retired director of Children’s Learning Center, First Baptist of Dalton and an avid Bama fan.

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