July 2023

About Us

WRITERS

Andrew Corbin

Beth Maxwell

Brian Branam

Candyce Carden

Dale Levan

Danny Cochran

Darlene Lofty

Granger Hughes

Janelle Martin

Jennifer Govea

John C. Mannone

Joshua Chi Tatum

Karla Smedley

McKenzie Carlisi

Pamela Latham

Dr. Pat Gross

Reagan Marsh

Rita Carr

Terrie Ruff

SALES

Matthew Ruckman

423-503-1410

Email: goodnewstn@gmail.com

DESIGN

Caleb Prytherch

Email: art.goodnews@gmail.com

PHOTOGRAPHER

Paula Knipp

423-310-4207

FACEBOOK

GoodNews Dalton

EDITOR/ARTICLE COORDINATOR

Sandra Gilmore

Email: articles.goodnews@gmail.com

PUBLISHER

Matthew and Bethany Ruckman

Cell: 423-503-1410

E-mail: goodnewstn@gmail.com

OFFICE

423-790-5378

WEBSITE goodnewscm.com

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 started GoodNews Christian Magazine in 2012 because we felt that when God, family, and community are combined, lives will be changed.

This month marks our eleventh year providing GoodNews Christian Magazine as a complimentary, Christian lifestyle publication. You can find us throughout the community in retail establishments, churches, restaurants, and more. Our magazine opens the doors for Christians to work together to grow and strengthen our community through relevant editorial and effective advertising.

Since 2012, more than 400 GoodNews Christian Magazine writers -- your friends, family, colleagues, and neighbors who love and serve the Lord – have provided insight and encouragement. Enjoy this sampling of their work from the last eleven years.

Our hearts are open and willing to be used by God to reach out to the community to spread the GoodNews!

issuu.com/goodnewsdalton 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.

What Do You See?

The prophet Jeremiah is unusual. He is unusual not because of some sort of wild, outlandish visions or miracles. He is unusual because of his total lack of them. Ezekiel saw flaming wheels. Isaiah saw God on His throne. Daniel received visions that are more like comic books than sermons. Yet Jeremiah, saw nothing until the day God told him to take notice.

In Jeremiah 1 God asks the prophet a most profound question: “What do you see (Jer. 1:11)?” Jeremiah then begins to describe to God things that he sees every day. “I see an almond tree.” “I see a man pouring out a boiling pot of water.” Perhaps Jeremiah’s most well known prophecy is that of the potter’s wheel (Jeremiah 18). It is life changing vision inspired by a day at the potter’s shop, watching a master at his craft. The message of Jeremiah that shook a nation came about by him simply taking notice of what was there as he walked.

He saw those things everyday, but when God told Jeremiah to notice them, the prophet never saw them the same way again.

What do you see?

I have a smartphone, so I can say this with authority. Technology is sucking the life out of our souls. We need to take less notifications and we need to take more notice. Our smartphones dumb us down with constant interruptions. Instead of time with God first thing in the morning we have to check email and receive status updates. Most of us can no longer sit still at a red light. Once the car is stopped, even for a minute or two, we immediately start flipping through apps and perusing our notifications. We receive more information at an intersection than our grandparents did in their lifetimes.

We get a lot of information but have lost the art of meditation. We know what is happening, but think very little of what it means. Those who want to go further in life must also go deeper. Like Jeremiah, we have to notice the almond trees. When was the last time you read something

from the Bible and thought about it the entire day? When was the last time something you read in the Bible changed the way you saw things throughout the day? If the brain is constantly interrupted by notifications, giving proper attention to deeper truth is impossible.

Because we are at a place in time and technology in which we want to know so much, we have reached a place in which I believe we know too much. The fast pace at which we receive notifications is causing the erosion of one of our greatest God given abilities—the ability to think. We no longer take time to think about what we know.

Isaiah 26:3 says, “You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you.” With constant notifications we are not at a pace for peace. It is difficult to get our minds to “stay” on the Lord when it strays after every vibration and alert that comes through our smartphone. Set a pace for your day that will train your mind to “stay.”

Where is He?

Over the summer, I was at the beach with my daughters and some family friends. Driving down the road that runs parallel to the ocean, the four-year-old noticed the view. In her excitement, she yelled, “Mommy! I see it! There’s the beach!” Her excitement was hard to contain as she chattered. But we kept driving, she grew disappointed. “Mommy? Where did it go? I can’t see it.” As we continued riding, her squeals and sighs went up and down. Like most kids, Rylynn persisted in her “Where did it go?” until she was satisfied with the answer.

“Rylynn, it did not go anywhere. We did. As we moved, the hotels and shops were in the way of us seeing the ocean. But sweetie, it is always there. There’s just stuff in the way.”

I pondered on that profound statement. Really? Isn’t that the way it is with God? He is always there. We just can’t see Him for the junk in our lives obstructs our view. Think about it. We go to church on Sunday, and there He is. We sing our songs, we listen to the message, and we feel Him in our midst. We sense His mighty power and feel an overflow of His Holy Spirit.

But as Sunday fades into Monday, we begin the routine of school with all its do’s, don’ts, and checklists. Do get up early; do your assignments. Don’t be tardy to class; don’t be on your cellphones at certain times. Activities or work after school cause pressure on our time and duties at times. When we add a social life with friends and family, life can be exhausting. The God feeling that was so strong on Sunday is drained from us, even if we dropped by church on Wednesday evening for a quick fill up.

So, I asked Rylynn’s question: “Where’d He go?” We know the answer. Nowhere. He is always there; many of us

learned that as a kid. He has longed for us to talk with Him, but it is like we put Him on a shelf and make Him one of our duties or activities on our weekly checklist.

That’s not His desire. Instead, I believe He wants us to walk with Him hand and hand whether the view of Him is in plain sight like during church times or when our life is filled with the constructed things that are blocking our sight.

There are small distractions like outings with our friends or assignments, but there are towering obstructions like conflicts with our peers or adults, self-image or pride issues, or important life decisions.

God desires for us to see Him during it all! How?

Reserve a time to read your Bible and pray daily. As we do, the buildings of life that could block our view of Him will crumble. Thus, we will strengthen our relationship with God allowing His presence to flow in us throughout the week.

An investment advisory fiduciary is a financial professional or entity that provides investment advice to clients and is legally bound to act in the best interests of those clients. This fiduciary duty requires the advisor to prioritize the client's interests above their own and to provide advice that is prudent and aligned with the client's goals and risk tolerance.

The fiduciary duty is a higher standard of care compared to the typical "suitability standard" followed by some financial professionals. Under the suitability standard, advisors are only required to recommend investments that are suitable for their clients, which may not necessarily be in the clients' best interests.

In contrast, an investment advisory fiduciary must act in a manner that is loyal, diligent, and free from conflicts of interest. They have a legal obligation to provide advice that is based on thorough analysis, professional expertise, and a genuine understanding of their clients' financial situation. This includes disclosing any potential conflicts of interest and ensuring that the advice provided is in the best interest of the client.

Ensuring that your financial advisor is a fiduciary is important for several reasons:

1. Duty of Loyalty: A fiduciary is legally obligated to prioritize your best interests above their own. This means they must act with loyalty and avoid conflicts of interest that could compromise the advice they provide. By working with a fiduciary, you have greater assurance that the recommendations and decisions made are solely in your best interest.

2. Higher Standard of Care: Fiduciaries are held to a higher standard of care compared to advisors who operate under the suitability standard. Fiduciaries are required to provide advice that is diligent, thorough, and based on a deep understanding of your financial situation, goals, and risk

What is a Fiduciary and why does it matter to my investments?

Money Matters Granger Hughes with

tolerance. This higher standard ensures that the advice you receive is well-researched, well-informed, and tailored to your specific needs.

3. Disclosure of Conflicts: Fiduciaries are required to disclose any conflicts of interest that could influence their recommendations. This transparency allows you to make informed decisions and understand any potential biases or incentives that may exist. It helps you evaluate whether the advice being provided is truly in your best interest or influenced by external factors.

4. Minimization of Financial Exploitation: Fiduciaries are bound by their fiduciary duty to act in a manner that prevents financial exploitation. This is particularly important for vulnerable individuals such as the elderly or those with diminished capacity. Fiduciaries must prioritize the protection and preservation of your financial assets, reducing the risk of abuse or undue influence.

5. Trust and Confidence: Working with a fiduciary can instill a greater sense of trust and confidence in your financial advisor-client relationship. Knowing that your advisor is legally obligated to act in your best interest can provide peace of mind and enhance the trust you place in their guidance.

The fiduciary duty is typically associated with Registered Investment Advisers (RIAs) in the United States who are regulated by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) or state securities regulators. These advisors are required to register with the appropriate regulatory body and adhere to specific rules and regulations governing their conduct.

Choosing an investment advisor who acts as a fiduciary can provide investors with an additional layer of protection and confidence, as it ensures that their advisor is obligated to act in their best interests.

Fathers Make a Difference

Most fathers sincerely want to do a good job raising their children and preparing them for life, but are not certain how to do that. In Ephesians 6:4 Paul provides two basic practices that if followed consistently, will help men fulfill their mission as fathers. While the practices are directed primarily to fathers, they can be applied by parents, grandparents, and anyone who has the opportunity to invest in the lives of young people. However, these instructions being addressed to fathers remind us that

sometimes doing fun things and other times just hanging out. Fathers also provoke their children to anger and frustration when they are lacking critical communication styles. Sincere praise and appreciation should be offered when the children have done commendable things and also for no apparent reason. Fathers should commend their children and let them know that their father is proud of them and loves them. That pride and love should be stated in clear language. Fathers are sometimes uncomfortable expressing their feelings in words, but children need to hear those words.

fathers are to be involved in raising the children. The first statement describes what fathers should avoid while the second statement describes what parents should actively pursue in raising children.

The first bit of advice Paul offers fathers is to avoid provoking their children to anger. This does not mean that fathers should never do anything their children dislike, but that fathers are to avoid practices that lead children to frustration, feeling that they can never please them. Therefore, parents must build relationships with their children. The old saying, “Rules without relationship equals rebellion,” is true. This involves spending time with children

The second word of advice for fathers is to teach their children about the Lord and his instructions for life. Some of this instruction is deliberate conversation about important issues, while much of it involves casual conversation. In Deuteronomy 6:45, God gave the great confession of faith to Israel. It was the declaration that the LORD was one God in contrast to the idol gods of the Canaanites, and that they were to love the Lord their God with all their heart, soul, and strength. The Lord instructed the fathers to teach this great truth diligently to their children. While there is a place for formal instruction, life’s greatest lessons are often learned during the routine events of life. The Lord commanded the Jewish fathers to talk of their faith when they fulfilled the routine activities of life. Conversations between a father and his children should be relaxed and personal. Men often struggle with this, but children need to hear their fathers talk of their faith. The Book of Proverbs is a great example of a father discussing the important issues of life with his son. The phrase, “My son” appears twenty-three times in Proverbs as Solomon discusses the great issues of life with his son. Fathers play a vital role in preparing children for life and eternity.

Women Will You Answer the Call?

Please know, women of God, when God calls you, He equips, enables, provides, and qualifies us to do His will. You must know that He will never abandon us to figure it out on our own or without God's strength. So don't fear or fret it; God is with us always (Hebrews 13:21). God always provides the skills, abilities, direction, and protection that we need when He calls us out. God said, "Be still and know that I am God! Listen to my voice.”

I am very sure of this, that he who begun a good work in you, He will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ (Philippians 1:6).

Women, stop sitting around twittering your thumbs with uncertainty, doubt, naysayers, jealousy; friends walk away, don't worry. God is saying, I called you and yes you can! Always listen to the voice of Jesus who called, chose, appointed, and anointed you to tell the good news about Christ Jesus! You, believe the report the Lord! Just do it! We can believe God by being obedient to His commandments and His will. For this is the work of God, that you believe in Him who sent you (John 6:29).

You must continue to walk by faith and not by sight. Rejoice always because you have perfect confidence in God (1 Corinthians 7:16).

May God continue to bless us daily with grace and new mercies that we may do His will. Lord, thank you, for always being there for us and keeping us on track, for helping us focus and providing all our needs and some of our desires. I will trust in you Lord with all my heart (Proverbs 3:5-6). Lord you are our strength and shield for that our hearts are filled

with joy and thanksgiving and He will do the same for you (Psalms 28:7).

Women, when life's journey brings on trails, troubles, tribulations and struggles that seems unbearable, God ask the question, “Behold, I am Lord, the God of all flesh, Is there anything too hard or difficult for Me?” (Jeremiah 32:27). The answer is, No there's nothing too hard for God; just trust God and His word.

Always remember that God has a perfect plan for each of our lives; however, He didn't say we will not be tired. He did say, “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to proper you and not harm you, plans to give you hope and a future” (Jeremiah 29:11).

In closing, women seek ye first the kingdom of God above all else and live righteously. He will give you everything you need to move forward (Matthew 6:33). Women, will you answer the call and take your rightful position in ministry? Lord, help us to go into the hedges and highways to win souls to Christ. May this word encourage you today and always.

Dalton Church Directory

Assembly of God

Christian Fellowship Assembly

3656 Chattanooga Road, 30755

706-280-7594

The Sanctuary

515 Reed Rd NW, 30720

706-270-2088

The Healing Center Church

515 Reed Road, 30720

706-229-9456

Baptist

Abundant Life Baptist Church

811 J and J, 30721

706-278-5289

Antioch Baptist Church

1205 Antioch Road, 30720

706-278-1305

Beaverdale Baptist Church

2496 Beaverdale Rd NW, 30721

706-259-7089

Calvary Baptist Church

2115 Chatsworth Rd, 30721

706-278-6324

Carolyn Baptist Church

2305 Cleveland Highway, 30721

706-259-8142

Centerpoint Baptist Church

420 Centerpoint Drive SE, 30721

706-277-2100

Christ Reformed Baptist Church

1378 Dug Gap Rd, 30720

706-226-3026

Concord Baptist Church

1054 Hopewell Rd, Cohutta 30710

706-694-8618

Cove Baptist Fellowship Church

461 Carbondale Rd SW, 30721

706-277-3484

Crown View Baptist Church

502 West Tyler St, 30720

706-278-7422

Deep Springs Baptist Church

1660 Beaverdale Rd NE, 30721

706-259-3255

Dug Gap Baptist Church

2031 Dug Gap Rd, 30720

706-278-2377

Eastbrook Baptist Church

204 Hill Rd, 30720

Eastside Baptist Church

913 East Morris St, 30721

706-278-8553

Eleventh Avenue Baptist Church

2550 South Dalton Bypass, 30722

706-278-7020

Emmaus Baptist Church

4268 S. Dixie Rd, 30735

706-483-5251

First Baptist Church

802 Kenner St, 30721

706-226-9681

First Baptist Church of Dalton

311 North Thornton Ave, 30720

706-278-2911

Grace Baptist Church

2049 Lower Kings Bridge Rd, 30721

706-537-6884

Good Hope Baptist Church

2525 Lake Francis Rd, 30721

706-259-3719

Grove Level Baptist Church

2802 Cleveland Highway, 30721

706-259-8519

Good Samaritan Baptist Church

3137 Cleveland Rd, 30721

706-259-7239

Gospelway Baptist Church

336 Jupiter Cir, 30721

706-278-1424

Grace Baptist Church

2049 Lower Kings Bridge Rd, 30721

706-537-6884

Harmony Baptist Church

187 Lower Dawnville Rd, 30721

706-226-5521

Harvest Baptist Church

3986 Cleveland Hwy, 30721

706-694-8951

Hill Crest Baptist Church

1901 Cityview St, 30720

706-279-1267

Hopewell Baptist Church

3527 Airport Rd, 30721

706-226-5987

Kinsey Drive Baptist Church

2626 Kinsey Drive,30720

706-277-3505

Lakeshore Park Baptist Church

12 Crescent St, 30720

706-275-6050

Liberty Baptist Church

506 South Pentz St, 30720

706-226-5535

Lindsey Memorial Baptist

706-673-7650

3503 Lindsey Memorial Rd.

Rocky Face, Ga. 30740

Macedonia Baptist Church

1355 Dawnville Rd NE, 30721

706-259-9220

Maple Grove Baptist Church

347 Maple Grove Rd, 30721

706-483-6300

McFarland Hill Baptist Church

307 Brickyard Rd, 30721

706-277-5521

Mount Rachel Baptist Church

332 Haig Mill Lake Rd, 30720

706-278-5192

Mount Ridge Baptist Church

1401 M L King, Jr. Blvd, 30721

706-278-0335

New Hope Baptist Church

900 Roan St, 30721

706-226-2093

New Hope Baptist Church

706-673-8050

2105 Tunnel Hill-Varnell Road

Tunnel Hill, GA 30755

New Life Baptist Church

2620 Old Grade Rd, 30721

Northwest Georgia Baptist Church

222 North Pentz St, 30720

706-463-3490

Olivia Baptist Church

1817 Guy St, 30720

706-278-3507

Pine Grove Baptist Church

4004 Airport Road, 30721

706-264-8630

Poplar Springs Baptist Church

897 Poplar Springs Rd, 30720

706-259-8727

Reformation Baptist Church

244 N. Hamilton St, 30720

706-314-8711

Rocky Face Baptist Church

1544 Rocky Face Railroad St, 30740

706- 226-5751

Salem Baptist Church

1448 Pleasant Grove Dr, 30721

706-259-7045

South Dalton Baptist Church

498 Lakemont Drive, 30720

706-278-4946

Shiloh Baptist Church

2014 East Waugh St, 30721

706-226-5981

Temple Baptist Church

2310 South Dixie Hwy, 30720

706-226-6785

Valley Baptist Church

2907 Old Rome, 30720

Welcome Hill Baptist Church

2772 E Welcome Hill Circle, 30721

706-278-0368

Whitfield Baptist Church

2134 Dug Gap Rd, 30721

706-278-6776

Bible

Fellowship Bible Church

2044 Dug Gap Rd, 30720

706-278-6269

Catholic

Saint Joseph’s Catholic Church

968 Haig Mill Lake Rd, 30720

706-278-3107

Christian

First Christian Church

1506 Dug Gap Rd, 30720

706-278-7244

Church of Christ

Central Church of Christ

515 N. Tibbs Rd, 30720

706-278-8051

Riverbend Church of Christ

2218 S Riverbend Rd, 30721

706-226-0819

Church of God

Church of God of Union Assembly

2311 South Dixie Rd, 30720

706-275-0510

City View Church of God

3688 Chatsworth Hwy, 30721

706-226-6686

Crosspointe

2681 Underwood Street 30721

706-278-2649

Lifegate Church

2744 Cleveland Highway, 30721

706-259-0016

Valley Brook Church of God

1474 Mineral Springs Rd, 30720

706-279-3296

Community

Church on the Hill

1035 Abutment Rd, 30721

706-278-9208

Community Fellowship Church

409 North Fredrick St, 30721

706-278-3204

Freedom Community Church

908 Elk Street, 30720

706-463-2690

Rock Bridge Community Church

121 W Crawford St, 30720

Episcopal

Saint Mark’s Episcopal Church

901 West Emory St, 30720

706-278-8857

Jehovah’s Witnesses

Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses

1309 Applewood Drive, 30720

706-529-0192

Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses

1817 Dug Gap Rd, 30720

706-270-0156

Latter-day Saints

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

610 Shugart Rd, 30720

706-278-5295

Lutheran

Christ the King Lutheran Church

623 S Thornton Ave, 30720

706-278-3979

Methodist

Bethel AME Church 620 Spring Street, 30720

706-226-2714

Bethel UMC

123 Bethel Church Rd, 30721

706-278-3309

Dalton First UMC 500 South Thornton Ave, 30720 706-278-8494

Fairview UMC

735 Riverbend Rd, 30721

706-996-5057

Five Springs UMC

2823 Five Springs Rd, 30720

706-277-3928

Mineral Springs UMC 4079 Airport Road, 30721 706-517-0200

Mt. Vernon UMC 597 Lafayette Road Rocky Face, GA 30740 706-673-4667

New Haven UMC 4040 South Dixie Highway, 30721 706-217-1879

Pleasant Grove Methodist 2701 Cleveland Highway, 30721 706-259-3141

Sugar Valley UMC 503 Murry Hill Dr, 30720 706-280-9112

Trinity UMC 901 Veterans Dr, 30721 706-278-4042

Varnell United Methodist Church 3485 Highway 2 Cohutta, 30710 706-694-8023

Wesley Chapel UMC 808 Jamestown CT, 30721 706-270-2331

Nazarene

First Church of the Nazarene 2325 Chattanooga Rd, 30720 706-278-8428

Grace Church of the Nazarene 1111 Nelson St, 30721 706-278-1171

Non-Denominational Abundant Life Bible Church 901 Chester Road, 30721 706-270-9733

Bridging the Gap Ministries

514 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, 30721 706-277-7575

Relentless Worship Center

210 Robinwood Dr, 30721

706-313-1129

Dalton House Of Prayer

897 College Dr, Conference Rm 3, 30720

706-915-6545

Dawnville Community Church

1409 Dawnville Rd NE, 30721

706-259-5342

Good Neighbors Church

910 South Thornton Ave, 30720

706-226-0846

Gospel Light Tabernacle

804 Sheridan Ave, 30721

Grace Fellowship Ministries

620 N Glenwood Ave 2&3, 30721

706-280-1375

Northwest Christian Fellowship

272 Main St, Varnell, GA 30756

706-694-9830

River of Life Church of Dalton

2919 East Walnut Ave, 30721

706-965-6683

Saint James Overcoming Church

400 North Fredrick St, 30721

706-278-0319

Tunnel Hill Community Church

706-673-4022

121 North Varnell Road

Tunnel Hill, GA 30755

Pentecostal

Iglesia de Dios Pentecostal Fuente

de Agua Viva

1007 Underwood St, 30721

706-278-4963

La Senda Antigua

308 East Matilda St, 30720

706-270-8826

True Gospel Pentecostal Church

109 South Henderson St, 30721

706-278-5696

Shadow Ridge Worship Center

122 Wheat Drive

Varnell, GA 30721

706-280-4546

Presbyterian

ChristChurch Presbyterian

510 South Tibbs Rd, 30720

706-529-2911

First Presbyterian Church

101 S. Selvidge St, 30720

706-278-8161

Grace Presbyterian Church

2107 Threadmill Rd, 30720

706-226-6344

Salvationalist

Salvation Army

1109 N. Thornton Ave, 30722

706-278-3966

Seventh Day Adventist

3 Angels Hispanic SDA

701 E Morris St, 30721

706-618-1182

Dalton Hispanic SDA

112 W Long St, 30720

706-275-0523

Dalton SDA Church

300 South Tibbs Rd, 30720

706-226-2166

Chatsworth Church Directory

Baptist

Blue Ridge Primitive Baptist Church

706-517-9849

134 Hyden Tyler Road

Chatsworth, GA 30705 US

Calvary Baptist Church

706-695-7747

Highway 225 North

Chatsworth, GA 30705 US

Center Hill Baptist Church

706-695-7988

65 Berry Bennett Road

Chatsworth, GA 30705 US

Cisco Baptist Church

706-695-9270

Highway 411 North

Chatsworth, GA 30705 US

Cool Springs Baptist Church

706-517-5388

Holly Creek Cool

Chatsworth, GA 30705 US

Fellowship Baptist Church

706-695-2626

4396 Highway 52

Chatsworth, GA 30705 US

First Baptist Church

706-695-2112

121 West Market Street

Chatsworth, GA 30705 US

Flat Branch Baptist Church

706-695-2663

3443 Highway 286

Chatsworth, GA 30705 US

Free Hope Baptist Church

706-695-3717

4176 Highway 76

Chatsworth, GA 30705 US

Holly Creek Baptist Church

706-695-8522

422 Holly Creek

Chatsworth, GA 30705 US

Liberty Baptist Church

4221 US-76,

Chatsworth, GA 30705 US

Little Consauga Baptist Church

706-517-5733

1100 Sugar Creek

Chatsworth, GA 30705 US

Maranatha Baptist Church

706-695-6330

Highway 225 South

Chatsworth, GA 30705 US

Mount Pisgah Baptist Church

706-517-8944

2309 Old Highway 411

Chatsworth, GA 30705 US

Murray Baptist Church

706-695-9712

508 West Peachtree Street

Chatsworth, GA 30705 US

New Hope Baptist Church

706-517-3089

1273 New Hope Road

Chatsworth, GA 30705 US

New Prospect Baptist Church

706-629-9521

7629 Highway 225

Chatsworth, GA 30705 US

Old Fashion Baptist Church

706-695-5420

885 Ben Adams Road

Chatsworth, GA 30705 US

Open Air Ministries

706-386-484

1058 Mtn Crest Dr.

Chatsworth, GA 30705 US

Prayer Baptist Church

706-624-9216

10859 Hwy. 225 South

Chatsworth, GA 30705 US

Shinning Light Baptist Church

706-517-1739

801 North 5th Avenue

Chatsworth, GA 30705 US

Smyrna Baptist Church

706-695-5815

1913 Smyrna Church Road

Chatsworth, GA 30705 US

Spring Place Baptist Church

706-695-5532

441 Highway 225 South

Chatsworth, GA 30705 US

Strait Way Baptist Church

706-517-2861

508 West Peachtree Street

Chatsworth, GA 30705 US

Total Praise Baptist Church

706-695-6441

1461 Greeson Bend Rd,

Chatsworth, GA 30705 US

Zion Hill Baptist Church

706-517-5913

Highway 225 North

Chatsworth, GA 30705 US

Bible

Grace Bible Church

2599 Leonard Bridge Rd.

Chatsworth, GA 30705 US

Church of Christ

Woodhaven Church of Christ

706-847-7400

508 West Peachtree Street

Chatsworth, GA 30705 US

Church of God

Chatsworth Church of God

706-695-9388

Highway 411 South

Chatsworth, GA 30705 US

Central Community Church

706-695-4242

60 Pine Hills Drive

Chatsworth, GA 30705

Spring Place Church of God

706-695-8000

717 Tibbs Bridge Road

Chatsworth, GA 30705 US

Full Gospel

Faith Worship Center

706-695-6866

189 Hyden Tyler Road

Chatsworth GA 30705

House Of Prayer

616 Jenkins Road

Chatsworth, GA 30705 US

Methodist

Casey Springs UMC

7250 Chastworth Highway South

Chastworth, GA 30705

Center Valley UMC

706-971-4646

5394 Highway 225 North

Chatsworth, GA 30705 US

First United Methodist Church

706-695-3211

107 W Cherokee Street

Chatsworth, GA 30705 US

Fullers Chapel UMC

2144 Fuller’s Chapel Rd

Chatsworth, GA 30705 US

Mineral Springs UMC

71 North Way St

Chatsworth, GA 30705 US

Spring Place UMC

706-695-5143

Po Box 248

Chatsworth, GA 30705 US

Non-Denominational

God’s Light House

784 Smyrna Church Road

Chatsworth, GA 30705

The Church of God of the Union Assembly at Chatsworth, GA

706-695-7335

Highway 52 Alternate

Chatsworth, GA 30705 US

Liberty Tabernacle

706-517-3140

2196 Smyrna Church Road

Chatsworth, GA 30705 US

Living Word Christian Fellowship

706-695-5005

960 Cherokee Drive

Chatsworth, GA 30705 US

New Beginnings Ministries

706-695-6067

646 Floodtown Road

Chatsworth, GA 30705 US

North Gate Church

706-548-4967

7727 Highway 225 South

Chatsworth, GA 30755 US

Tabernacle of Praise

706-517-0377

1435 Leonard Bridge Road

Chatsworth, GA 30705 US

Wings Of Faith Ministries

706-695-1527

1122 North Holly Drive

Chatsworth, GA 30705 US

Pentecostal

Victory Tabernacle

706-517-1458

355 Ellijay Street

Chatsworth, GA 30705 US

A Place to Worship

706-517-8568

259 Old Landfill Rd

Chatsworth, GA 30705 US

Presbyterian

Sumach Presbyterian Church

706-695-4773

2089 Sumach Church

Chatsworth, GA 30705 US

Seventh Day Adventist

Seventh-Day Adventist Church

706-517-5124

1115 Highway 52

Chatsworth, GA 30705 US

Science and Christianity

As a mother, and an educator, I have learned that science is not the enemy of Christianity, but the confirmation of God’s wonderful plan of creation. Here are some fun things you can do with your children to teach them some simple scientific principals as well as God’s amazing ways.

1. Bubbles and Balls: Using several different bubble wands, show the children that no matter the shape of the wand, bubbles are always round. The reason they are round is that bubbles are shaped by the air pressure around it. God doesn’t want us to be shaped by our world, but for us to remain the way he made us, like a rubber ball. Eventually, a bubble will break because the pressure outside becomes greater than the pressure inside. A solid rubber ball doesn’t lose its shape.

2. Chalk in Buttermilk: Soak small pieces of colored chalk in buttermilk for about an hour, then let the children color either on black paper or on the sidewalk and note how much brighter the colors are, and that they change color as they dry. When we “soak” ourselves in God’s word and His teachings, it makes a difference in us, and how the world sees us.

3. Penny Polishing: Find some dirty pennies, and place them in a clear cup. Cover them with lemon juice and let them soak for 10 minutes, then clean them off with a paper towel. They will look brand new! This is a chance to let children

know that God can take our dirty hearts and make them clean with His Love!

4. Diversity Lesson: Take several hard boiled eggs, and dye them different colors. After they dry, peel them and show the children that on the inside, they all look the same. Then explain how God created us all differently and yet on the inside, we are all the same.

5. Salt Makes a Difference: Using a ¼ cup Epsom Salt, and ¼ cup warm water, in a clear cup stir until the salt is dissolved and then add a few

drops of food coloring. Place the cup in the refrigerator until crystals begin to form (about 4 hours). Spoon the crystals out on a paper plate. Jesus tells us to be salt and light in our world, so that the world can see that adding Jesus to our lives makes a difference.

I hope you’ll take advantage of these activities to make a teachable moment with your children. (These are especially good on those rainy days!)

Mission Statement:

We believe when people are equipped, motivated, and passionately engaged in living out their faith in Jesus Christ they have the potential to be world changers.

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

Writer Guidelines:

Who: Our writers range from pastors, professors, and professional writers to stay at home moms and dads, business professionals, and others who have a desire to reach out to people through words of encouragement.

What: We believe that it is important to laugh together, praise each other, encourage one another, and to everyone, or from woman to woman, or man to man. We love to share recipes and family traditions as well. We ask that articles be kept to a 500 word maximum. We’d love to hear from you!

Where: Please send submissions to articles.goodnews@gmail.com

Why: Because God has not intended for us to just survive. We believe that we are intended to reach out to love and encourage each other. God has brought each of us through tough times, blessed us, and made the “impossible” possible. Let’s, together, share the love of Jesus Christ.

The 80:20 Relationship Rule

Reversing the formula to focus on your relationship

When you were dating, your main conversations likely centered around your childhood, your dreams and aspirations,and what you liked most about each other. Now that you are married, what do you two discuss most? “Did you pay the mortgage/rent? What time do we have to be at your nephew’s graduation? Why is our son acting like that?”

Whoa, what changed? What happened to pursuing her and treating him special?

This shift is what my husband calls the 80:20 Relationship Rule. When two people are dating, it is composed of 80 percent relationship and only 20 percent responsibilities. There are very few commitments on your plate such as having dinner together at her grandmother’s house or going with him to a baseball game (when you don’t enjoy the sport); however, when the two become one in marriage, there is a shift to 20 percent relationship and 80 percent responsibilities.

Sure, a couple needs to work out the bills, the kids, and deciding with which in-laws to spend the next holiday, but that doesn’t mean that relationship needs to be sacrificed in the process. How can you add more fun and love to the relationship while continuing to be responsible adults that fulfill all of the other commitments? Two examples will help to limit the 80 percent responsibilities discussions to prevent you two from talking about it 100 percent of the time and expanding the 20 percent relationship time to fuel the flame of love.

1. Weekly Meetings

My husband and I have weekly meetings about certain subjects so that we talk about them and then close the topic until next week. For example, talking about money can be very touchy. If you don’t pick a time to talk about the bills, vacation, gifts, college funds, then the topics tend to come up at inappropriate times, which can really kill the moment. If you’re at a party and you realize the car loan didn’t get paid, that’s not the best moment to resolve it. Or if you are on a date with your wife and she starts talking about needing to buy birthday gifts for your son’s friends, the mood fades.

2. Focus and Prayer

Dating your spouse regularly is key to keeping the romance alive. It shows intentionality that you want to set aside everything else—including talking about the kids—and just focus on your spouse. It doesn’t have to be expensive, just intentional. Whether it’s seeing “Children of Eden” at the ACT Playhouse, walking the loop, or meeting at The Perfect Cup during your lunch break, it is so important to spend quality time enjoying each other’s company. Avoid at all costs talking about responsibilities. Tell your wife what you love about her. Share with your husband why you admire him. Reminisce about all the places you two have lived or the vacations you shared. Talk about your bucket list, pray for each other.

On a daily basis, take a break from discussing responsibilities once dinner is over and enjoy each other for the rest of the evening. Set aside different days this summer when you flip the 80:20 ratio to invest most of your energy in having fun together.

King Solomon was the wisest man who ever lived and he wrote, “For everything there is a season, a time for every activity under heaven” (Eccl. 3:1 NIV). Let’s be wise and take his advice.

Being the Spiritual Leader of Your Home

God has appointed the man as the leader of the home (Ephesians 5:21-23). Being the head or the leader of the home comes with responsibilities. I believe one of the many responsibilities of the man of the home is to get your family together to go to church.

In Genesis 35, Jacob is told by God to go to Bethel. Bethel in Genesis is a form of the church in our day. It was a place where the presence of God was, and it was a place that Jacob recognized as the house of God. In Genesis 35:1, God tells Jacob to go down to Bethel and to dwell there. In Genesis 35:2-3, Jacob makes the decision for his family to go down to the house of God. “Then Jacob said unto his house hold, and to all that were with him, Put away the strange gods that are among you, and be clean, and change your garments. And let us arise, and go up to Bethel.”

Jacob made an important decision for his family. In Genesis 35:2-3, he basically tells his family, get cleaned up, and dressed up because we’re going to church! He did not put it up for a discussion or a vote. He had some authority about him, and he had done his duty as the man of the home. I believe that God has appointed the man of the home to make sure his family gets up, gets ready, and goes to church.

Thankfully, I had a father that made church a priority in my life. When I played baseball in high school, we used to have some games on Wednesdays

which would cause me to miss church. My dad would tell me that every now and again would be fine, but it better not happen every week. I am thankful for a dad that made church a priority in his life and in my family’s life. Now that I am married with my own family, I make it a priority for us to go to church every time the doors are open.

I believe that fathers all around the world will be rewarded for being the spiritual leader of their homes

and putting the Lord first. I also believe those fathers that are not the spiritual leaders will be judged one day by the righteous judge, Jesus Christ.

Just as Jacob did in Genesis 35, men need to be the spiritual leaders of our homes. We need to make up our minds that we are going to live for God and try our absolute best to ensure that our families do the same.

Discover Beautiful Smiles By Design Dentistry—Where Your Comfort and Convenience Take Center Stage!

Welcome to Beautiful Smiles By Design Dentistry, where we prioritize your convenience and well-being above all else. Our practice, conveniently located at 509 South Thornton Ave in Dalton, boasts a modernized building and state-of-the-art equipment, all designed with your comfort in mind. Led by our esteemed Dr. Chikwava, our knowledgeable staff is dedicated to ensuring that your smile and comfort are guaranteed throughout your dental journey.

At Beautiful Smiles By Design Dentistry, we believe that your experience should be seamless and hassle-free. That's why we have carefully located at a prime location in the heart of downtown Dalton, making it easily accessible for our patients. Our modernized building offers a comfortable and inviting environment, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere from the moment you step through our doors.

We apply the best practices in dentistry in accordance with the latest technologies available in the industry to deliver assured exceptional results repeatedly. Our practice is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment, ensuring that all procedures are carried out predictably and effectively. From digital scanners that provide precise impressions to 3D Pro Imaging that offer detailed visuals of your oral health, our advanced tools enhance diagnostics and treatment planning.

We believe in guiding you to achieve your dental objectives because we appreciate that a beautiful smile goes hand in hand with your overall health and comfort. That's why we prioritize both aspects of your dental experience. Our aim is to guarantee not only exceptional dental results but also your complete comfort and satisfaction. We want you to leave our practice with a radiant smile and the confidence that comes with it.

Our treatment planning process is designed to listen to your goals and provide personalized recommendations to help you achieve the smile you desire. We understand that every patient is unique, and we take the time to create tailored treatment plans. That's why we offer high-quality lab work that enables you to describe and choose your preferred smile before we begin the treatment. Our greatest joy comes from witnessing the

transformative power of a smile. We proudly present some of the before and after treatment scenarios, showcasing our patients' remarkable smile makeovers.

As an indication of our positive achievements, we are proud that the majority of our patients have given us five-star reviews on Google, validating the quality of our work and their positive experiences. The overwhelmingly positive feedback from our satisfied patients speaks volumes about the quality of our work. We are proud to share numerous testimonies of patients who have experienced remarkable transformations and have achieved beautiful, confident smiles on our website and other social media. Find us at www.beautifulsmilesdentistry. com or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/beautifulsmilesbydesigndalton.

Such remarkable results have positioned the practice as a household name regarding dentistry in and around our community. Once they enroll, the majority of our patients stay with us to the end of their treatment plans, In fact, many of our patients have become advocates for Beautiful Smiles By Design Dentistry, referring their friends and family to us. It's not uncommon to see whole families making Beautiful Smiles their dental home, a testament to the trust and satisfaction they have in our services.

At Beautiful Smiles By Design Dentistry, we understand the value of your time. We continuously improve our systems and protocols to minimize the time you spend at our practice while still providing top-quality care. We strive to streamline our processes, from scheduling appointments to efficient treatment procedures, so that you can make the most of your valuable time. To make your dental journey even more convenient, we have developed an interactive website where you can learn about all the services we offer well before you even visit us. You can explore our comprehensive range of treatments, including general dentistry, traditional braces, implants, endodontics, tooth-colored fillings, and crowns. In addition, we provide specialized services such as cosmetic dentistry, Invisalign, teeth whitening, athletic mouthguards, porcelain veneers, and laser dentistry. Our website also allows you to schedule your own treatment appointments, giving you control over your dental care and making it easier than ever to access our services.

We are committed to making dental care accessible and affordable for our patients. That's why we accept patient insurance

plans from most insurers in the industry. We work closely with insurance companies to ensure smooth and hassle-free billing processes, taking the stress out of managing your insurance claims. In addition to insurance, we also offer Launch Loyalty, an inhouse payment arrangement designed to provide flexibility and convenience for our patients. We understand that each patient's financial situation is unique, and we are dedicated to finding solutions that fit your needs.

We are passionate about ensuring that all patients in pain and in need of treatment are taken care of promptly. We go the extra mile to facilitate the use of other products like CareCredit, a healthcare credit card that allows you to finance your dental treatments. Our team is well-versed in assisting patients with insurance and financing options, guiding you through the process and helping you make informed decisions about your dental care.

Dr. Chikwava, now a proud resident of Dalton, is not only dedicated to providing exceptional dental care but also actively involved in the community. He sponsors a program called "Level Up" at the Mack Gaston Community Center, offering community youth access to leadership training and educational activities during the summer months. Dr. Chikwava is also passionate about giving back through the annual free dental day, "Give Kids a Smile," held at our office. We are proud to support the Dalton and Calhoun High School Football Teams as a major sponsor, contributing to the local sports community.

Experience the difference at Beautiful Smiles By Design Dentistry. Join us to discover gentle dentistry at its best. Visit us at our convenient location on 509 South Thornton Ave in downtown Dalton or call (706) 226-9798 to get started and let us provide you with the exceptional dental care you deserve.

How to Read the Bible

People frequently ask, “How should I read the Bible?” It’s a great question, because the Bible is a big book, written by 41+ authors, translated from 3 languages, and encompassing some 4200 years of ancient cultures. It can certainly be intimidating! So here’s some of the counsel I give.

1. Read patiently. 66 books means a lot of ground to cover, a lot of theology to learn, and a lot of history to grasp. New words, concepts, and the deeply interconnected nature of Scripture means that this will be a long-term project, and that’s okay. Take a breath, take a step, rinse, and repeat.

2. Read prayerfully. This reading is not merely a cognitive exercise. To understand the Bible rightly requires the illumining work of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 2:9-10,14) to lead us to Christ, who is the centerpiece of Scripture. Such growth is under God’s providence (Hebrews 6:3), and teaches us dependence on him.

3. Read persistently. The Bible takes time to master, and a lifetime to be mastered by it. Chip away at it! Most biblical books can easily be read start-to-finish in under an hour, and some in less than 10 minutes. Discipline yourself to read a portion each day, and decide to do it stubbornly.

4. Read practically. Scripture contains lovely doctrinal depths, each intended to lead us to worship God, and to teach us how to live unto him, for his glory. Theology is meant to be lived (1 Thessalonians 2:13), and Scripture overflows with theology.

5. Read personally. The Bible speaks to my need, my sin, my obedience, my worship, the state of my soul, and most importantly, my Savior. Humility is key here: it’s written to others, but it’s for us (Romans 15:4; 1 Corinthians 10:11). Don’t ignore its original historical context; but don’t discount its wisdom and perspective for today, either.

6. Read progressively. In other words, aim for the progress of understanding more today than you did yesterday. That means taking time for study, research, and reflection. Don’t aim for just moving the bookmark; aim for grasping the meaning.

7. Read promised-ly (hey, I was on a roll). In other words, read Scripture on its own terms, as not only the very word of God, but also God’s testimony of his redeeming love in Christ. Scripture speaks about Jesus (Luke

24:25-27,44; John 5:39,46). He is its ultimate subject and controlling category, and all God’s promises are kept in him (2 Corinthians 1:20). Rebels receive gracious promises, mediated only through Jesus.

Across Scripture’s various genres, history, narrative, Gospel, epistle, wisdom, poetry, lies the big picture of who God is, and how he has shown mercy in Christ while we were yet sinners. The goal of reading the Bible is to know this God, obeying him by his word, communing with him by his Spirit, drawing near to him by his Son, resting in his steadfast love, to the praise of his glory. Take up and read!

He Taught Me How to Fly

Ileft some real bad stuff behind me, Jesus carried me through pain, He filled my heart with joy, My life has not been quite the same, I laugh and smile daily, I thank Jesus every morn,

I’m walking in his favor, He removed that infected thorn, He’s the only true friend I’ve ever had, He’s got me higher than the sky, He threw me up into the air, After he taught me how to fly!

The Onion Pillow

Ihave neck problems, so I have a certain chiropractic pillow that I use. I have one that I have used for several years, and you can tell by looking at it. My wife purchased a new one from a local chiropractor to take its place, and she threw the old one in the garbage. I slept on the new pillow for one night and woke up with a bad headache and neck ache and realized that the new pillow would not work. So I dug the old one out of the trash, put a clean pillow case on it, and laid down. I didn’t realize that my wife had also put onion peels in the trash with the pillow. Now my beloved pillow smelled like onions. Every night for a week, I slept with the aura of onions swirling around my head until Febreze cured the old pillow of its smell and I could get a new pillow that worked.

What thoughts affect your mind when you go to bed? Those thoughts, whether good or bad, will affect your sleep and your peace. If your mind is filled with worry or fear, it will affect the “smell” of your night. If your mind is filled with pornography, your thoughts will be clouded by guilt or wrong desires through the night. If your thoughts are filled with bitterness or negativity, the “smell” of your night will keep you awake. But if your thoughts are controlled by things of the Lord, He will give you perfect peace.

Among Mayan believers in Guatemala, “worry dolls” are used to sleep well. The tradition is to keep close to the

bed six worry dolls, each doll is for a worry that you have. A person is instructed to talk to the dolls and tell them his or her worries before going to sleep, and if on the next day your worry is gone, the doll has served its purpose.

I agree that it probably helps some to share your worries, fears, negative thoughts, even with a doll, but the Bible tells us to give all of these to God in prayer. He can and will take them and do something about them. We are told not to worry, but to pray. We are told about 365 times in the Bible not to be afraid, but to trust Him. We are told to pull up roots of bitterness, unforgiveness, and resentful thoughts toward others because of all that God has forgiven us.

So, whatever has happened during your evening, bad news, negative comments from others, controversy, thoughts of tomorrow or yesterday, take time to read the Bible and see God’s perspective on whatever is swirling around your mind and heart. Give them to Jesus. He will spray spiritual Febreze to take away the germs of sleeplessness and give you His peace.

“Finally brothers (and sisters), whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable—if there is any moral excellence and if there is any praise—dwell on these things” (Philippians 4:8).

ò0 dNews for Grandparents

Things I’ve Learned From My Granddaughter

Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good! His faithful love endures forever. —Psalms 118:1

On April 1, 2010, my husband and I were blessed with our first granddaughter. Kinley was a little one, weighing in at less than five pounds, but she was absolutely perfect! When Kinley was 19 months old, she had an accident that almost took her life (another story for another day). She suffered an anoxic brain injury. After almost two months in Egleston and Scottish Rite hospitals, she was released. What a wonderful day that was! Kinley was coming home, but she was not the same little girl that

probably one of the easiest things to share, and sometimes your smile may be the only one that someone sees that day. Nehemiah 8:10 tells us “Don’t be dejected and sad, for the joy of the Lord is your strength!”( NLT).

BE CONTENT

Kinley doesn’t care if she has the newest toy on the market or if her coloring book has her markings on every page. She doesn’t fuss about which shoes she has on or if her bow isn’t perfect. She’s content with whatever she has in most situations. She has learned Paul’s lesson at an early age: “Not that I was ever in need, for I have learned how to be content with whatever I have” (see Phil. 4:10).

BE PERSISTENT

Kinley has overcome so much in her five short years. Only God knows how many times she fell as she was learning to walk, but she would get right back up and take off again. She sounds out her words carefully until she gets it right. She wants to succeed in whatever she is doing. Kinley doesn’t quit!

had left back in November. She could no longer crawl, walk, talk, or feed herself. Doctors were uncertain of her the future. A brain injury heals differently than a broken bone. However, we trusted God to bring her to complete healing. These last four years have brought tremendous progress. Kinley has relearned many things, but she has also taught me a few things in the process.

BE JOYFUL

Kinley has a smile for everyone, and you can’t help but smile back when you see the pure joy on her face. A smile is

God has answered so many prayers since Kinley had her accident. Watching the miracles unfold as He has healed her body has strengthened my faith in ways that I can’t put into words. He has been faithful during the darkest of nights and the brightest of days.

I began by saying that Kinley came into this world perfect. She’s almost six years old now. She started Pre-K this year and is doing very well, but due to her injury, she still has some problems. She struggles with things that other children accomplish easily. She is strong-willed, opinionated, and stubborn. But she is exactly the way God wants her, and that’s my idea of perfection!

I’m Happy Even When I’m Not Happy

“Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content” (Phil. 4:11, NKJV).

It was lunchtime and I was ready to eat! It had been a busy morning and I was highly engaged in my work when the loud growling sounds from my stomach reminded me that it was time to take a break. As I entered the cafeteria, I greeted coworkers and the cafeteria crew and gave Karen her usual hug. As I did, she gave me her usual smile. I sat down and began eating lunch and reflecting on an article I glanced at before leaving my office. The article’s focus was on knowing God’s will for your life. As I thought about the key points, I felt impressed to ask Karen how she knew God’s will for her life.

She smiled and told me, “I feel it. Sometimes I dream about things, like when my mother was sick, I dreamed she would be healed. I was so excited to tell her that I couldn’t sleep that night and she was healed!” We were both laughing and affirming each other’s experiences of God’s various ways of speaking to His children when I felt impressed to ask her another question. “Karen how do you stay content?”

Without hesitation, she came over to my table and told me, “I’m happy even when I’m not happy. That’s my ministry to others, that’s the promise I made to God. There are plenty of times I’m not happy, but I don’t show it. I’m here for others.” Wow! Being happy even when you’re not happy, I told Karen that was a beautiful sign of spiritual maturity, not to allow feelings to control her life, but instead to be controlled by the Spirit.

What a wonderful example Karen is of depending on God and allowing her life to be a reflection of His good work in her. While I do not believe she is promoting others

to ignore or discourage their true feelings and emotions, she has simply reached a point in her experience with God where she has given even her emotions to His care.

Karen, you are a beautiful example of the contentment that is promised in God’s Word. You are at peace and no matter what your situation is, you trust God’s will for your

life and the outcome you have left in His hands. Thank you for sharing with me what contentment means to you. Thank you for being a woman of contentment. It should be our goal to learn that whatever state we are in, to be content, and like Karen, to be happy even when we’re not happy.

Challenge yourself today to NOT be controlled by your feelings or your situation; instead, allow God to control your affairs and determine to be content! Be like Karen, learn to be happy even when you are NOT happy!

What is Wellness?

The Webster’s Dictionary’s definition of wellness is: “The quality or state of being healthy in body and mind, especially as the result of deliberate effort, or an approach to healthcare that emphasizes preventing illness and prolonging life, as opposed to emphasizing treating diseases.” I would like to take that a step further and say the definition of wellness is the state of being healthy in body, mind, and soul.

Wellness of the body is really all about fitness. Fitness is the measureable part of your wellness game, and that means it’s something you can observe, record, and repeat. Here are ten general physical skills to consider to get the most from your body:

1. Cardiovascular/respiratory endurance—the ability to gather, process, and deliver oxygen.

2. Stamina—the ability to process, deliver, store, and utilize energy.

3. Strength—the ability of a muscular unit, or combination of muscular units, to apply force.

4. Flexibility—the ability to maximize the range of motion at a given joint.

5. Power—the ability of a muscular unit, or combination of muscular units, to apply maximum force in minimum time.

6. Speed—the ability to minimize the time cycle of a repeated movement.

7. Coordination—the ability to combine several distinct movement patterns into a singular distinct movement.

8. Agility—the ability to minimize transition time from one movement pattern to another.

9. Balance—the ability to control the placement of the body’s center of gravity in relation to its support base.

10. Accuracy—the ability to control movement in a given direction or at a given intensity. When going down this list, I’m sure you see at least one of your favorites and a few of your least favorite things in all the world. The key to wellness of the body is training your weaknesses. With

that said, if cardiovascular/ respiratory endurance jumped right off the page and slapped you in the face, it might be a sign that some endurance training would do you a ton of good. Remember 1 Corinthians 6:20 says: “God bought you with a high price. So you must honor God with your body” (NLT).

Wellness of the mind and soul work hand in hand. “For God has not given us a spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and self-discipline” (2 Tim. 1:7 NLT). Take the mind you have been given and sharpen it, use it, train it. Your mind and soul are your strongest weapons in this battle for wellness, and what soldier would go to war without his sword and shield?

Power is found in those last few reps—in that last mile just before you break and end in failure. Fight to find the power you have already been given. David knew the power he had been given and put it to use when Goliath defied the army of the living God. He told King Saul, “ ‘I have been taking care of my father’s sheep,’ he said. ‘When a lion or bear comes to steal a lamb from the flock, I go after it with a club and take the lamb from its mouth. If the animal turns on me, I catch it by the jaw and club it to death.’ . . . I’ll do it to this pagan Philistine, too. . . . The Lord who saved me from the claws of the lion and the bear will rescue me from this Philistine!’ ” (1 Sam. 17:34-37 NLT). Every time you step on the battleground that is life, know your Maker will stand by your side. Love is passion. Be passionate about wellness, and the lifelong journey of living well. A strong community of people with similar goals and beliefs will pour love into your life and give you an outlet to pour yours.

Self-discipline is not always easy, but nothing worthwhile really is. True wellness of body, mind, and soul is worth the struggle; it’s worth the pain and it’s worth all the sacrifice. It may feel like taking up your cross daily can be a burden, but that cross you carry will bring you strength and the power to slay the Enemy and overcome any stronghold in the way of your wellness. Live well, friends.

Ways to Stay Active in the Summer Heat

There are so many wonderful ways to stay active while beating the summer heat. Here are six to get you started:

Take your workout to the pool.

Enjoy the sun while staying cool in the pool by doing an aquatics workout. By running in the water, a 130-pound person can burn an average of 472 calories per hour. As a bonus, the low-impact nature of the water is gentler on your joints than running on land.

Enjoy evening activities.

The summer months mean longer day-light hours, so take your family on an evening outing, after the temperature has cooled down a bit. Head to the park, or go on a walk through your neighborhood after dinner to get some exercise in before bed. After the sun has set, spend some time outdoors catching lightening bugs or playing a night game such as light-up Frisbee or hide and seek. Go on a hike.

Not only is hiking beneficial to your mental health by getting you out in nature, it is also a great way to stay active during the summer. For a 160-pound person, hiking for an hour can burn an estimated 440 calories, and by wearing a light day-pack, an additional 50-100 calories can be burned; the more challenging the terrain and incline of the hiking trail, the more calories that will be burned. Since hiking trails are generally shaded by the trees and foliage, hiking is a great summer activity to keep you moving without overheating and being in the direct sunlight. Just remember to always stay hydrated and to wear sunscreen and/or sun-protecting clothing. Spend some time on the water.

While the weather is warm, try some new activities in the water. Head to your local river rental store and try kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, or water bikes. Not only will you get a great workout, but you will have fun doing it!

Go on an afternoon adventure.

Head to a local park or college campus and ride bikes for a simple, inexpensive afternoon adventure! Pack a backpack with a blanket and some snacks, and have a picnic to take a break and rehydrate during your afternoon fun. Enjoy the sunrise/sunset.

During the summer, once the sun comes up, the heat starts to rise. If you generally like to walk or run for your

daily exercise, you may need to do so earlier or later in the day to avoid the heat. Perks of getting an earlier, or later, start is getting to enjoy the sunrise or sunset. Just keep in mind that being out in lower light conditions makes you less visible, so remember to wear bright and reflective clothes!

Whether you already have an exciting, active summer planned, or you need some ideas to get your summer going, we have plenty of resources at the Bradley Wellness Center. We offer several Kids Camps throughout the summer, monthly hiking groups, morning running groups, and numerous other activities. With our free childcare, you can bring your children to the gym with you, allowing you to get your workout in—even when the kids are out of school! Come by the Bradley Wellness Center today to get started!

The Beauty of Who You Are

“I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvelous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well” (Psalm139:14).

Often I hear someone say that they are not pretty or handsome enough, or tall enough, or short enough. Sadly, some people measure their worth by the world’s standards of beauty. But the world’s standards of beauty change like the wind.

The Bible states that you are fearfully and wonderfully made (Ps. 139:14). Your life has great meaning and you are the wonderful person God designed and created you to be. More importantly, you were created to serve the Lord. You are beautiful and very special to the Lord. You are greatly loved. God made you beautiful in the uniqueness of who you are.

The Word of God says in Jeremiah 1:5 that before you were in your mother’s womb, God knew you. Though your journey may have been one of rejection, heartache, disappointment, and pain, God will lovingly carry you and surround you with His love through every part of your journey (Zeph. 3:17).

You are never, no, never, alone. God knows your every need before you ask Him. God knows you and the very heart of every prayer you pray. Remember, you are unique and, again, you are fearfully and wonderfully made.

You are beautiful in God’s sight and your life has great meaning to our Heavenly Father. You are greatly loved. God will forever journey with you and His love is not conditional. Our Heavenly Father, our Abba Father Daddy, will journey with you until your very last breath!

To the one who may not be saved: Remember, you are greatly loved by God and before you were in your mother’s womb God knew you, loved you, and will love you for all of eternity. God desires to be your Heavenly Father, but you must know His Son, Jesus Christ.

There is only one way to God and that is through Jesus Christ (1 Tim. 2:5). Jesus Christ offers the gift of salvation.

This gift is free and shows His sacrificial love for you. The sacrificial gift of salvation was given through Jesus’s death and resurrection.

How can you be saved? You can be saved by receiving the free gift of salvation through Jesus Christ, the great Messiah.

Know this:

• God loves you (Rom. 5:8–9).

• All have sinned (Rom. 3:10–12, 23).

• Sin separates us from God (Rom. 6:23).

• God desires to be your heavenly Father and spend eternity with you (Rev. 3:20; John 3:16; 1:12).

You may wonder how you can have this relationship with God through Jesus Christ our Lord. Please, with a simple childlike faith repent of your sin (Acts 3:19). Believe that Jesus Christ died and rose again so that you can have eternal life (John 3:16; 15:13). Repent of your sins and receive Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior. Ask Him to come into your heart and become your Lord and Savior (John 1:12).

Allow Jesus Christ to have complete rule over your life (Gal. 2:20). He will surely do amazing things in your life.

Buds Green Salad

It’s Just a Salad

Lettuce. Empty a spring mix into a salad bowl, a great variety in every shade with every texture from soft baby greens to parsleys and curly kales of forest green; arugula and radicchio red with the crunch of romaine and crispy icebergs. Blend of peppery plants like mustard leaf and mesclun with hyssop petals will enhance the salad flavors.

Toss the ingredients together. But first, before their baptism, extra virgin (the purest) olive oil and red wine vinegar to wash. There should be no sprinkling of granulated garlic. Use only fresh cloves, cleaved and pressed into oil and infused with a gift of herbs: some sweet, others bitter, savory, picante; some floral, pungent, earthy. These are the salt of the earth, but add the salt of the sea, too.

Crush them between your fingers, merging together the fennel seeds and thyme, rosemary, and marjoram, with a bit of basil and flakes of parsley and red pepper. Add coarse black pepper, too. No tears, just life’s spices.

The oil alone cannot coax the joy out of the herbs; some acid is always needed. Vinegar and oil can mix when shaken together. Now spread the shaken liquid and herbs over the greens. Toss thoroughly, yet with gentleness of wooden spoons, (not the shiny metal ones.) Mix until every piece of lettuce is anointed with this oil and vinegar—a gladness to the palate. They are now ready to serve.

This food poem is a metaphor for the church. Originally published in the Tupelo Press 30/30 Project, it was shared at a picnic in Athens Regional Park where nearly seventy picnickers attended (ten churches and their pastors). This is the way the body of Christ should be gathered together—desegregated—loving each other and serving Him. The great Irish metaphysical poet, John Donne, said “No man is an island.” We need each other. And Saint Paul was not just talking about church services when he commanded we should “not forsake our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but

encourage one another; and all the more as you see the Day approaching” (see Heb 10:25). Remember, there is one faith, one body, one baptism, one Lord above all (see Eph 4:5 ). Let’s enjoy each other and the salad!

Green Salad

• 5 oz. spring mix or any variety of leafy greens

• 2-3 cloves fresh garlic, peeled (use quality herbs such as Penzeys Spices)

• 1 tsp. fennel seeds, crushed between fingers

• 1 tsp. parsley flakes

• ½ tsp. (each) thyme, marjoram, rosemary

• ¼ tsp. red pepper flakes (optional)

• 3 oz. extra virgin olive oil (Colavita)

• 1 oz. Champagne Wine Vinegar (Colavita)

• Sea salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste

Prepare the vinaigrette in advance (a few hours to overnight). In the bottom of a one half cup spice bottle, place all the herbs (except salt and black pepper) and garlic pressed with a garlic press (keep what remains in the strainer, too). Follow with olive oil and then the vinegar. Screw down the lid and shake well. Let sit at room temperature or in a cool place (a few hours or overnight). When ready, empty salad greens into a large bowl, grind the sea salt and coarse black pepper, pour dressing as desired, and toss well. Serves 5.

Summertime In Tennessee

There’s just something about the summertime that makes me grin from ear to ear. It could be the fact that life moves at a slower pace for me. I’m off during this time of year, and working in the school system allows me this freedom that I love. It’s a time to refresh, recharge, and mentally prepare for the new school year ahead.

I can remember staying outside all day long until the sun went down behind the ridge; then, the fireflies would begin to make their first appearance for the evening. There was a stillness with a faint glow in the sky that would fade

dad’s hammer and a nail, I would feel better about holding them captive; at least they would be able to breathe.

There’s a lost art in children being able to enjoy the simple things that the summer can provide. Mud pies, clover necklaces, picnics, and fireflies kept me busy as a little girl on those hot summer days. Several years ago, while trying to put into words what summertime meant to me, I wrote this poem in the hopes of capturing my love for this time of year as well as my love for my beautiful Tennessee home.

Summertime In Tennessee

The mountain laurel sways with ease along the stream once more.

A path of beauty spreads the way for Summer’s open door.

Blooms of color fill the land, a carpet all around, each one unique within itself upon a welcomed ground.

Fireflies roam up in the night, the twinkle shines above.

A tiny hand that reaches out to grab them all with love.

Friends and families gather for a picnic at the park.

into the night, the gloaming. This has always been one of my favorite times of the day. It feels as if time stands still, just for a few seconds, before the darkness takes over.

Hoping my mom would have an empty jelly jar to catch fireflies, I’d run into the house and let the screen door smack the back of my heels before I could make it into the kitchen. Sure enough, she would have a small jar rinsed out and ready so I could collect my beautiful treasures.

If you caught fireflies in the summer while growing up, then you know what a treat it really was and how fascinating it was to see these little bugs light up. Being very careful to poke several holes in the top of the lid with my

Crickets singing songs to hear when night becomes the dark.

Children’s laughter in the air, their shouts are filled with glee.

Summertime is special in the hills of Tennessee!

I wrote this poem in 1995, and every summer, I try to stop at some point and reflect on how God made my Tennessee so beautiful. He graced the mountains and the hills with a beauty like no other.

Following Our Spiritual Light

The sunflower is one of the world’s most recognizable flowers. Replicating the pattern and colors of the sun, it resembles its namesake. The flower grows tall and proud and symbolizes vitality, devotion, and adoration. Who can resist a smile of delight when looking at one of these beauties? No wonder it’s recognized by so many.

The sunflower has another characteristic that relates to its name. It follows the sun. A young flower faces east at dawn, waiting patiently for the sunrise. Throughout the day, it slowly tracks the sun’s light as it moves west across the sky. Then, during the night, the flower gently rotates east to begin the cycle again.

I wish I were as devout and loyal as the sunflower in seeking out the spiritual light in my life. Just as the sunflower needs physical light to survive, we need the spiritual light of Jesus to thrive.

Jesus said, “I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life” (John 8:12).

It’s much easier to follow the light of Jesus when our life is going well: when all is sunny and bright. But, what about those times when darkness descends?

• A broken relationship.

• A gut-wrenching medical diagnosis.

• The loss of a loved one.

• An employer who doesn’t need us anymore.

In this world, we will have trouble. But, Jesus promises we never have to walk in darkness, despite our clouds of pain. He is our refuge. He is our strength. The key to peace when walking through dark times is to draw close to Him.

“Look to the LORD and his strength; seek his face always” (Psalm 105:4).

Even on gray, cloudy days, the sunflower continues to follow the sun. In fact, the flower can point us to the sun’s position in the sky when we can’t see it. Let’s be as faithful as this unique plant in seeking Jesus, our spiritual light, again and again, day by day. By keeping our eyes fixed on Him, our dark times won’t overshadow our source of inner light. But, it doesn’t end there, for Jesus also tells us, “You are the light of the world” (Matthew 5:14).

Jesus said He came as the light of the world, but He also instructs us to be the light of the world. We can reflect His light by the way we lead our lives—loving others as He loves us. His light shines through our actions, words, and thoughts. When we faithfully follow Him, we add light to the world.

Sunflowers are true followers of their source of life, the sun. As believers, let’s become devoted followers of our source of life—Jesus Christ. By seeking His light, we find peace in our struggles and cast His light into a dark and hurting world.