September 2024

Gò0dNews

OCTOBER 1 - 5, 2024

About Us

WRITERS

Dr. Alan Hix

Candyce Carden

Charles Finney

Corrie Vallance

Filip Brunner

Jade Morgan

John W. Fortune

Jon Mann

Juliana Horatia Ewing

Mitch Jolly

Rick Hughes

Sandra Gilmore

Thomas Morrison

SALES

Matthew Ruckman

423-503-1410

Email: goodnewstn@gmail.com

DESIGN

Caleb Prytherch

Email: art.goodnews@gmail.com

PHOTOGRAPHER

Melanie Abney

706-844-3818

FACEBOOK

GoodNews Rome

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 issuu.com/goodnewsrome

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.

Faithful Complaint

This article is adapted from Pastor Jolly’s blog and podcast. See his website www.theologyinthedirt.com for current podcasts and archives of previous ones.

by Mitch Jolly

Ihave been in local church ministry for 30 years. Jennifer and I have been married for 24 years. We don’t know life without local church ministry. Local church work is spiritually and emotionally heavy work. The last three to four years have been arguably the hardest of all the years of ministry, and somehow in it all, the Lord has sustained us.

The morning of July 20, 2023, while walking the dog and praying, I started complaining to the Lord. I used the Bible to help me complain by quoting Psalm 73:13-14.

Psalm 73:13-14 ESV, “All in vain have I kept my heart clean and washed my hands in innocence. For all the day long I have been stricken and rebuked every morning.”

I reminded the Lord that I have kept my marriage intact, kept my hands to myself, kept my eyes clean, worked to keep the character requirements of 1 Timothy 3, worked to be a good manager of His resources, been faithful and

accountable, and submissive to others, and have not quit, The best the Lord could do for us is to shove us into the valley of the shadow of death (see Psalm 23) and have it all feel like He was not even present.

I declared to the Lord that I was just about done and ready to move on to something else and that I was even beginning to wonder about His intentions toward us being good.

I told the Lord we were tired of taking hits as we discover how to live out what we believe in the public square. I was like, “Let somebody else do it,” with a few other salty words thrown in there.

After about an hour of intense one-sided conversation, it was not long in the silence that I began to hear the Spirit. He counseled me about being able to say out loud what I was thinking, knowing He already knew what my thoughts were. The Spirit took me to the text for today and helped me see this was actual trust in the Lord and confidence in His love for me.

That did something in my discipleship that might never have happened without hard stretches of time bringing me to a place of raw honesty with the Lord.

Psalm 84:11, perhaps my favorite verse in all the Bible, had a helpful balm in it. It says, “For the Lord God is a sun and shield; the Lord bestows favor and honor; no good thing does he withhold from those whose walk is blameless.”

The Lord loves and accepts me based on Jesus’ gift of His righteousness to me by faith alone, not my veneer of self-righteousness in pretending I was not hurt or hurting. And because I am upright in God’s eyes by Jesus, I can tell him my hurts and wonderings and trust what has been allowed is for good.

The truth is that the Lord is at work whether we perceive Him in the details or not. The Lord is at work whether we are enjoying His refining work or not.

Rejection and hardship are NOT proof of the Lord’s absence or lack of progress for us or in us. If we are walking with the Lord and seeking His kingdom first, these things are often the Lord’s means to grow us and mature us in the faith.

The cross is not just how we get saved. The cross is also how we are discipled.

THE TOTAL CHURCH EQUIPPING CONFERENCE

Cost: $15 Per Person

Thom S. Rainer is a renowned church leader, author, and consultant, currently serving as the founder and CEO of Church Answers, an online resource platform for church leaders. He previously held the positions of President and CEO at LifeWay Christian Resources and was the founding dean of the Billy Graham School of Missions and Evangelism at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. His expertise in church health led him to establish the Rainer Group, a consulting firm that has guided numerous churches and organizations. A prolific author, Rainer has contributed more than two dozen books to the field, including influential works such as “I Am a Church Member” and “Autopsy of a Deceased Church.”

SESSION TOPICS:

MISSIONS

• Steps to Recognize and Raise Up Missional Leaders in Your Church

• Getting Ready to Go NEXT GEN – KIDS

• Babysitter vs Influencer

• Leading a Child to Christ

• Starting a Special Needs Ministry in Your Church NEXT GEN – STUDENTS

• Six Things Every Volunteer Needs to Know to Work with Teenagers

• Navigating Best Practices for Discipling Teenagers

• Beyond Meat: Helps for those that lead youth Bible study

PASTOR WELLNESS

• Why Groups Matter: Small Group & Sunday School Training

• Winning the Church Back to Men

• The State of Manhood

• Key to Multiplying Gospel Impact Through Your Senior Adult Ministry

• First Impressions and Guest Services

• Fears in Disciple-making

• New Member Connection and Assimilation

• Open Your Church to Deaf People

• Teaching/Leading an Adult Class or Group

EVANGELISM

• The Power of Prayer in Evangelism

• The Five-Star Evangelistic Leader

MINISTRY ADMINISTRATION

• Artificial Intelligence and Your Ministry: The New Fuel for Efficiency and Impact

MISSION GEORGIA

• Navigating Trauma in the Church

• Four Keys to a Healthy Church

• UNLEASH!: 5 Strategies for Shaping a Church That’s Reaching, Discipling, and Deploying Young Leaders

• Deacon Ministry Foundations

• Current Trends and Common Practices in Turn-Around Churches

• Dealing Effectively with Church Conflict PUBLIC AFFAIRS

• Protecting Evangelism and Missions through Religious Freedom

• Reducing the Risk of Child Sexual Abuse in the Church WOMEN

• Five Essential Elements for Leading Women in the Local Church

• Women in Ministry WORSHIP & MUSIC

• Harmonizing Hearts: The Art of Being a Great Worship and Music Leader

• Sound & Vision: Elevating Worship Experiences Through Audio, Visual, and Livestream Mastery

IWorship is Not a Spectator Sport

by Candyce Carden

sn’t it interesting how God gives us different preferences and personalities that lead us to pursue different pastimes? I love watching college football season and the Atlanta Braves. Fall is paradise for this spectator sports fan.

Too often, we treat worship as a spectator sport whether we’re sports fans or not. We attend church. When it’s time to sing, we stand but don’t open our mouths, bow our heads to pray but don’t open our hearts, and lift our hands to pass the offering plate but don’t open our wallets. We listen to the pastor’s sermon with half an ear while thinking about lunch plans.

music as you prepare to leave. Pray. Thank God for the church staff who planned a meaningful worship experience. Ask God to open your hearts, minds, and ears to hear the message He has for you today. Pray that an unsaved person accepts God’s gift of salvation.

The Worship Experience: To stay involved during worship, we can follow a few suggestions. If you aren’t a singer, focus on the message of the lyrics. Allow the instrumental music to soar through your soul as you connect, with thanksgiving, to God. If you donate online or in another way, actively participate during offering by praying the tithes and gifts are used to advance God’s kingdom.

“Therefore let us be grateful for receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, and thus let us offer to God acceptable worship with reverence and awe” (Hebrew 28-20 ESV).

I’ve been guilty of treating worship as a spectator sport. As baseball and football seasons overlap, I implemented a few practices to keep me engaged during worship. Maybe you will find something helpful here.

Preparing Our Hearts and Minds for Active Worship

Before Church: To prepare to worship, we can silence the distractions. No sports talk shows—or other television. No social media or other hobbies. Instead, listen to praise

Resolve to remain attentive to the sermon, despite inner distractions. Taking notes helps me. Pray for your minister and the congregation. Know that God has nuggets of wisdom for you. You don’t want to miss them. Jotting a brief reflection about the sermon often deepens understanding.

After the Benediction: Rather than dashing off, look for someone to interact with. Offer a word of welcome. Compliment a young mother on how well-behaved her children are, or how cute they look. Thank your church staff for what they do.

My older sister used to tell me that going to church made the entire week better. She was right. Worship is a great way to start the week, but it doesn’t stop on Sunday. We’re more likely to maintain a closer connection with God throughout the week after a meaningful worship service. As with anything, we will get out of it what we put into it.

Offering God acceptable worship with reverence and awe is the least we can do for Him after all the gifts He offers us.

WMedicare and the Upcoming Annual Enrollment Period

Money Matters Rick Hughes with

Driven by a passion to educate, inform and prepare future retirees, Mr. Hughes founded Hughes Retirement Group in 2007. His main interest is helping his clients in reducing their taxes.

ith the transition of seasons from summer to fall this month, we begin to prepare for cooler temps, shorter days and the beauty of change as trees shift from greens to oranges, yellows, and reds. This time of change in nature is a great reminder that change might also be needed in our season of retirement. Enter the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP).

AEP runs from October 15th to December 7th of each year and offers Medicare beneficiaries the opportunity to review their current coverage. This is a time to reevaluate your healthcare coverage needs, see if adjustments need to be made, make sure you are optimizing benefits available to you and make educated, informed decisions that will impact both your health and finances in the upcoming year.

Many Medicare Advantage and Part D (prescription drug) plans update their benefits, coverage options and costs at this time. This can have an impact on your out-ofpocket expenses and inclusion of your doctors in certain networks. Have you had changes to your health in the past year? Maybe you will need to start seeing a new doctor or specialist or begin a new medication. A plan that has been working for you might not be the best option in the new year due to plan updates.

While we all know that Medicare and healthcare go hand in hand, sometimes we don’t realize that Medicare is also a piece of our Retirement Plan as well. Expenses associated with your healthcare are directly tied to your financial plan and income needs during retirement. Bridging a healthcare gap between retirement and Medicare eligibility age requires planning. Budgeting for co-pays

and prescription drug costs associated with Medicare plans factor into your overall retirement income need. As you assess your coverage needs during the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period, it may also be a good time to review your overall financial and retirement plan as well.

Hughes Retirement Group started out taking care of the Medicare needs of our community. Throughout this journey, we realized the tie between Medicare and financial planning. This led to the growth of our business to include both areas so that we could help ensure that our community had all the knowledge they needed to make not only informed but educated decisions for all of their retirement needs.

In the spirit of this education mindset, Hughes Retirement Group will be hosting our Inaugural Medicare Shake and Bake 2024 event Monday, September 23rd at the Olive Branch Event Center here in Cleveland. We will shake up the A,B,C’s of Medicare with two educational classes to choose from. One will be offered at 10:00 am and the other at 2:00 pm. During this time, we will discuss changes for the upcoming year that will be crucial to your evaluation of your Medicare needs and current coverage. After class, feel free to let all of that information bake in while you visit the various senior focused services that will have booths set up to help continue this educational experience for our community. If you would like to join us, please RSVP your time choice, name, and number of guests to Robin@hughesretirementgroup.com.

Pain = Blessing

by Jon Mann

Life is full of happiness, love, and joy. It is also full of pain, loss, and suffering. You are thinking to yourself right now, no duh, right? However, if presented with a choice, the majority of us, if not all, would prefer to never experience anything bad in our lives ever again. What if I said, in doing so, we would miss the greatest opportunity and blessing ever presented to us? (You now probably think I am crazy and wonder how this made the cut). Before you quit reading, let me ask you this one question: What is one thing that every single person in the world has in common? We have all experienced pain in one way, shape, or form, some worse than others. However, like my wife likes to say, “Pain is pain.”

You are probably still wondering how pain is a blessing. There are multiple ways. First, have you ever had a cut and after it healed it left a scar? If so, you know that the area where the scar is is tougher than the surrounding area that is not scarred. Second, remember when you were younger and your parents said, “Don’t touch. It's hot.” and, you did anyway? Did you learn the lesson to listen and not touch it because it’s hot? Lastly, have you ever seen a pearl? If so, do you know how a pearl is created? A pearl is created from sand, trauma, or a parasite entering the shell of the clam and damaging their bodies. Just think—those beautiful pearls we see come from the result of a traumatic injury.

God did not plan for pain, loss, and suffering to be a part of the world. However, sin entered the world, and these are reflections of that darkness. Am I saying that I'm glad we have pain, loss, and suffering in the world? Absolutely not. But God can turn them into a blessing. *Genesis 50:20 says, “But as for you, you meant evil against me; but God meant it for good, in order to bring it about as it is this day, to save many people.” The scar leaves your skin tougher. The only way for that to have happened is if you kept going like the righteous in Proverbs 24:16, “For a righteous man may fall seven times and rise again.” In the moments when we make mistakes, and when we are at our lowest, God meets us there in those times like in 2 Corinthians 12:9, “God’s grace is sufficient for you, and His strength is made perfect in your weakness.”

Lastly, as the clam made beautiful pearls from a traumatic experience, so can you help others who are hurting by giving mercy and grace. You know everyone has experienced some type of pain. Don’t be afraid to show your scars. Revelation 12:11 says, “We overcame him (satan) by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony.” Decide today to give your pain freely to the Lord. Don’t choose to harbor it and let satan win. Allow God to turn your pain into a blessing!

*All Scriptures NKJV

The Power of Get Up and Go

by Corrie Vallance

In Matthew, Chapters 1 and 2, we see a great example of one man’s faithful actions in the husband of Mary, Joseph. Just think about what we could do to avoid conflict if we heard and obeyed the heavenly father as Joseph did!

Joseph never hesitated to listen to God’s voice. And by jumping at the chance to follow the commands of the Lord, Jesus was born into this world and saved from being murdered by King Herod. We have our Lord and Savior because of Joseph’s unyielding faith. The Lord’s purpose for mankind was carried out by Joseph’s actions.

But Joseph wasn’t following blindly. He followed by faith, calling that which is unseen, seen! By implementing the thought pattern that God’s provisions are already given to us by inheritance, we can move forward. Following by faith is rather the opposite of following blindly. It is truly said that the blind walk by sight. But what they are seeing is the world, not the spiritual realm. Spiritual blindness stops us from even imagining the possibilities, the colors, the depth, width or might of God’s love! Faith empowers us to see these things as they already exist because we know they do truly exist.

Why do we think God spoke to Joseph in his sleep?

I believe it is the way into the mind through the back door, so to speak. It is a way for God to speak to us through our subconscious rather than our conscious mind. Our

consciousness is constantly battling with itself. The clatter that comes from that thinking clouds our judgment. Our conscious mind is the Adamic Nature we are born into and therefore we cannot shut it off or shut it out completely. But in our sleep, we are freed from this thinking, this consistent intention to call things good or bad. And so, in our slumber, we have the ability to simply receive a thought instead of interpret it.

The choice Joseph had when he woke up was to simply follow the message he had received during sleep, or in his dreams. He took action upon it without understanding. He chose to simply follow the command of the Lord. So Joseph got up and moved as instructed.

I recently moved from California to Tennessee, a 2500 mile move. This move has been so displacing and life altering. I made this move with a Penske truck and trailer that towed my meager possessions across the grand span of the United States. I can’t imagine packing a mule with some water and bread, leaving everything behind, and then trekking across the Sierras, the Rockies, and all that terrain to move to another town.

But Joseph never quibbled about his assignment. He simply packed the mule, the woman, the child and set upon the journey. The length of the first trip Joseph took with Mary is undetermined. I have read 492 miles, 90 miles, and even 60 miles. But even at 60 miles, going the speed of a walking mule would be too much for a person of my faith capacity to endure!

Reading this chapter truly can cause us to see the need to evaluate the reluctance in our Christian faith. We have such a desire for comfort that our mindset can work against the Lord and His plans for our lives. I laugh out loud at the thought of my inadequacy to be more like Joseph when called by God in my own life. So, dear reader, let this Scripture challenge us to pattern after Joseph and get up and go as the Lord leads!

Rome Church Directory

African Methodist Episcopal

Bethel AME Church

22 Nichols Rd Rome, Ga 30161

706-295-0019

St. James AME Zion Church

3 Maxwell Lane Rome, GA 30165

404-307-7396

Summer Hill AME Church

1981 Kingston Hwy NE Rome, Ga 30161

706-235-7113

Anglican

St. Andrew’s Anglican Church 42 Ash Street Rome, Ga 30161

706-235-5892

Apostolic

First Apostolic Church of Rome

3213 Cave Spring Rd Rome, Ga 30161

706-235-9551

Assembly of God

Redemption Church

105 Broadus Road NE Rome, Ga 30161

706-232-0277

Baptist

Antioch Baptist Church

4526 Big Texas Valley Rome, Ga 30165

706-232-7248

Armuchee Baptist Church

6648 Big Texas Valley Rd NW Rome, Ga 30165

706-235-3169

Berean Baptist Church

8 Skyline Dr Rome, Ga 30161

706-295-9832

Blue Pond Baptist Church

1291 Morrison Campground Rome, Ga 30161

706-235-3296

Bryant Chapel Baptist Church 24 Shady Lane Rome, Ga 30161

706-235-9768

Bush Arbor Baptist Church

3290 Black Bluff Rd Rome, Ga. 30161

770-885-0779

Calhoun Avenue Baptist Church 1021 Calhoun Ave Rome, Ga 30161

706-234-4431

Calvary Baptist Church 101 Broadus Rd NE Rome, Ga 30161

706-291-1461

Cedar Creek Baptist Church

5440 Black Buff Rd Rome, Ga 30161

706-777-8360

Cedar Valley Baptist Church 3024 Cedartown Hwy SW Rome, Ga 30161

706-295-0978

Community Chapel Baptist Church

3733 Black Bluff Rd Rome, Ga 30161

706-232-4070

Desoto Park Baptist Church

1107 Cave Spring Rd. Rome, Ga 30161

706-232-6207

Dykes Creek Baptist Church

3181 Kingston Hwy NE

Rome Ga, 30161

706-291-7790

East Rome Baptist Church

601 Cedar Ave Rome, Ga 30161

706-234-8553

East View Baptist Church

901 Kingston Ave Rome, Ga 30161

706-291-8250

Eden Valley Baptist Church

348 Eden Valley Rd Rome, Ga 30161

770-608-8168

Emmanuel Baptist Church 1414 Old Dalton Rd Rome, Ga 30165

706-232-3939

Enon Baptist Church

3105 Turkey Mountain Rome, Ga 30161

706-295-5052

Fairview Baptist Church 2348 Old Cedartown Hwy SE Lindale, Ga 30147

Fellowship Rome Baptist Church

314 Burnett Ferry Rd Rome, Ga 30165

706-234-9416

First Baptist Church 100 E 4th Ave Rome, Ga 30161

706-291-6850

Flatrock Baptist Church

848 Cunningham Rd SW Rome, Ga 30161

706-234-9976

Flint Hill Baptist Church 3578 Wax Rd SE, Aragon, GA 30104

706-232-8121

Friendship Baptist Church 2283 Calhoun Rd NE Rome, Ga 30161

706-295-4803

Garden Lakes Baptist Church 2200 Redmond Cir Rome, Ga 30165

706-234-6615

Greater Mount Calvary Baptist

445 East 14th St Rome, Ga 30161

706-234-5047

Hill Crest Baptist Church

2202 N Broad St Rome, Ga 30161

706-291-8806

Hollywood Baptist Church 112 Lombardy Way Rome, Ga 30161

706-234-6642

In Focus Baptist Church 12 N Hughes Rome, Ga 30165

706-234-8963

Lakeview Baptist Church 80 Salem Dr Rome, Ga 30165

706-235-2149

Lovejoy Baptist Church 436 Branham Ave Rome, Ga 30171

706-232-1917

McFall Baptist Church

3011 Rockmart Rd SE Rome, Ga 30161

706-235-5673

Mount Alto Church

1915 Huffaker Rd NW Rome, Ga 30165

706-232-6222

Mount Carmel Baptist Church E 20th St Rome, Ga 30161

706-232-8777

Mount Olive Baptist Church 17 E Pennington Rome, Ga 30161

706-234-6413

New Antioch Baptist Church 4553 Calhoun Rd NE Rome, Ga 30161

706-295-2248

New Bethel Baptist Church Weathington Dr Rome, Ga 30161

706, 291-8939

New Canaan Baptist Church 3 Excelsior St Rome, Ga 30165

706-291-1984

New Hope Baptist Church Hwy 156 Rome, Ga

706-235-0250

New Hope Baptist Church 399 Moran Lake Rd Rome, Ga 30161

706-290-0507

North Broad Baptist Church

1309 N Broad St Rome, Ga 30161

706-295-2100

Northwood Missionary Baptist 4076 Calhoun Rd NE Rome, Ga 30161

Park Ave Baptist Church 531 Park Ave SE Lindale, GA 30147

Parkview Baptist Church 4 Wesley Drive Rome, Ga 30165

706-232-4431

PisGah Baptist Church Alabama Rd Rome, Ga 30161

706-232-4431

Pleasant Hope Baptist Church 5935 Rockmart Road SE Silver Creek, Ga

706-235-2800

Pleasant Grove Baptist Church

500 N Division St Rome, Ga 30165

706-235-0731

Pleasant Valley North Baptist 735 Old Summerville Road NW Rome, GA 30165

706-232-6426

Pleasant Valley South Baptist 702 Pleasant Valley Rd SE Silver Creek, Ga 30173

706-234-1841

Providence Baptist Church 17 Burnett Ferry Road SW Rome, Ga 30165

706-291-0689

Riverside Baptist Church 48 Ash Street Rome, Ga 30161

706-291-8114

State Line Baptist Church 8536 Black Bluff Road Cave Spring, Ga 30124

678-988-0339

Saint Paul Baptist Church Pleasant Valley Rd Rome, Ga 30161

706-235-5037

Second Avenue Baptist 823 E 2nd Ave Rome, Ga 30161

706-232-3663

Shannon First Baptist Church 400 Fourth Street, PO Box 997, Shannon, GA 30172

Sherwood Forest Baptist Church

1 Goodman Rd Rome, Ga 30161

706-291-6174

Shorter Avenue Baptist Church

1410 Shorter Ave Rome, Ga 30165

706-234-8266

South Broad Baptist Church

508 South Broad St Rome, Ga 30161

Spring Creek Baptist Church

2636 Chulio Rd SE Rome, Ga 30161

706-234-1220

Springfield Baptist Church 113 Smith St Rome, Ga 30161

706-295-7217

Thankful Baptist Church 935 Spider Webb Dr Rome, Ga 30161

706-291-8132

Three Rivers Church 2960 New Calhoun Highway NE Rome, Ga

706-766-0942

Trinity Baptist Church 1728 Calhoun Rd NE Rome, Ga 30161

706-295-3368

Turner Chapel Baptist Church 756 Turner Chapel Rd Rome, Ga 30161

706-235-8682

Unity Baptist Church 2261 Pleasant Valley Rd Rome, Ga 30161

706-232-2184

West End Baptist Church 107 Mississippi Dr Rome, Ga 30165

706-235-1971

West Rome Baptist Church 914 Shorter Ave Rome, Ga 30165

706-232-9722

Wilkerson Road Baptist Church

Wilkerson Rd Rome, Ga 30161

Woodlawn Baptist Church 1649 Cartersville Hwy SE Rome, Ga 30161

706-232-4171

Word & Way Baptist Church New Rocketmart Rd Rome, Ga 30161

706-234-8729

Catholic

Saint Mary Catholic Church 911 N Broad St Rome, Ga 30161

706-295-7014

Christian & Missionary Alliance

Missionary Alliance 306 Coker Dr Rome, Ga 20165

706-235-9190

Church of Christ

Church of Christ 108 E Callahan St Rome, Ga 30161

706-291-0675

Lindale Church of Christ

3035 Maple Road

Lindale, Ga 30147

706-234-3027

Oak Hill Church of Christ

1500 Martha Berry Hwy Rome, Ga 20165

706-291-0351

Rome Church of Christ 121 Primrose Road Rome, Ga 30161

706-234-4444

Church of God

Armuchee Church of God

4974 Martha Berry Hwy Rome, Ga 30165

706-232-4414

Church of God of Prophecy 94 Huffaker Rd. Rome, GA 30165

706-528-4225

Lindale Church of God

585 Park Ave

Lindale, Ga 30147

706-232-5676

New Life Church of God

210 E 18th St Rome, Ga 30161

706-232-0704

New Hope Overcoming Church of God

200 Nixon Ave Rome, Ga 30161

706-234-4695

North Rome Church of God 1929 N Broad St Rome, Ga 30161

706-291-6687

Rome AOH Church of God

504 Decatur St Rome, Ga 30165

706-295-2999

West Rome Church of God UA 2827 Alabama Hwy Rome, Ga 30165

706-880-6895

Church of God in Christ

Great Joy Church of God in Christ 60 Shorter Industrial Blvd Rome, Ga 30161

706-766-6148

Disciples of Christ

First Christian Church

209 E. Second Ave, Rome, Ga 30161

Episcopal

Saint Peter’s Episcopal Church 101 E 4th Ave Rome, Ga 30161

706-291-9111

Foursquare

Rome Foursquare Church

308 Reservoir St NE Rome, Ga 30161

Full Gospel

Christ Gospel Church 619 Chulio Rd SE Rome, Ga 30161

706-234-7744

Independent Bible

Grace Bible Church 614 Dalton Rd NE Rome, Ga 30165

Interdenominational

Cornerstone Church

324 Mathis Dr Rome, Ga 30165

Ministerios El Vino Nuevo

4216 Alabama Hwy NW

Rome, Ga 30165

706-291-0500

Renovation Church

13 Redmond Ct. Rome, Ga 30165

706-314-9084

Latter-day Saints

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

3300 Garden Lakes Pkwy

Rome, Ga 30165

706-235-2281

Lutheran

Holy Trinity Lutheran Church

3000 Garden Lakes Blvd

Rome, Ga 30165

706-232-7257

Methodist

GracePoint Rome

43 Chateau Court Rome, Ga 30161

Holsey Sinai CME Church

1233 Martin L King Rome, Ga 30161

706-295-7265

Lindsay Chapel UMC

9 College Park Dr SW Rome, Ga 30161

Livingston UMC

21 E Lakeshore Dr SE Rome, Ga 30161

Metropolitan UMC

700 Broad St Rome, Ga 30161

706-291-8660

Mt Pleasant UMC

4782 Alabama Hwy Rome, Ga 30165

706-232-4350

New Bethel Methodist Church

Reeceburg Rd Rome, Ga 30161

706-235-9700

North Rome UMC

706-291-6704

Oostanaula UMC

74 Battey Farm Rd Rome, Ga 30161

706-292-0084

Rome First UMC

202 E 3rd Ave Rome, Ga 30161

706-291-8590

Rush Chapel UMC

1225 Rush Chapel Rd Rome, Ga 30161

706-291-7986

Scott Chapel UMC

3 Chambers St NE Rome, Ga 30161

Second Avenue UMC

801 E Second Ave SW Rome, GA 30161

Silver Creek UMC

36 Reeceburg Rd SE Silver Creek, GA 30173

706-234-2518

South Broad UMC

546 S Broad St

Rome, Ga 30161

706-232-5230

Trinity By The River, Global Methodist

606 Turner McCall Blvd SW Rome, Ga 30165

706-291-0033

Wesley Chapel UMC

9 College Park Dr SW Rome, Ga 30161

West Rome UMC

1003 Shorter Ave

PO Box 2247 Rome, GA 30164

706-234-6214

Messianic

Congregation Hallelu HaShem

1869 Floyd Springs Rd NE, Armuchee, GA 3105

706-936-6711

Nazarene

Rome First Church of the Nazarene 20 Glenda Dr Rome, Ga 30165

706-234-5023

Non-Denominational

Access Church

1905 Calhoun Rd Rome, Ga 30161

705-584-7497

Beech Creek Church

2972 Alabama Hwy, Rome, Ga 30165

706-346-1018

Christian Church at Rome 2417 Shorter Ave Rome, GA 30165

706-235-0501

Glorious New Jerusalem Church 537 W 12th St Rome, Ga 30165

706-295-2045

Glory Tabernacle Church

300 Watson St Rome, Ga 30165

706-235-0888

Gospel Harvester Church

1246 Cartersville Hwy SE Rome, Ga 30161

706-290-9858

Greater Refuge Ministries 1604 North Broad St Rome, GA 30161

706-622-2448

Legacy Church 524 Avenue A SW Rome, GA 30165

LIFE Church of Rome 19 John Davenport Drive Rome GA 30165

706-728-3166

Lighthouse Church of Rome Lighthouse Dr SE Rome, Ga 30161

706-291-0864

New and Living Way Bible Church 59 Dykes Creek Rd Rome, Ga 30161

706-233-9200

Northside Church

75 N. Floyd Park Rd. Rome, Ga 30165

706-233-9896

Rally Up International Ministries

2460 Shorter Avenue

Rome, Ga 30165

706-235-8561

Shannon Community Church

600 First Street Shannon, GA 30172

706-491-7112

Solid Holy Rock Deliverance Tabernacle

700 Kingston Ave Rome, Ga 30161

706-291-8948

The Church at Rome 1649 Cartersville Hwy SE Rome, Ga 30161

706-346-2733

Trinity United Christian Church 6 Deer Run Trail Rome, Ga 30165

706-204-8270

We The Church 1818 Kingston Hwy Rome, Ga 30161

Words of Faith Tabernacle 3134 Rockmart Rd Rome, Ga 30161

706-314-9158

Orthodox

All Saints Church 615 Cleveland Ave Rome, Ga 30165

706-378-4474

Pentecostal

Cannon Temple Holiness Church 308 Porter St Rome, Ga 20161

706-233-9001

Christ Temple Holiness Church 1321 Martin L King Rome, Ga 30161

706-235-3787

Victory Temple Of Joy 118 Williamson St. Rome, Ga 30165

706-766-3865

Presbyterian

First Presbyterian Church EPC 101 E 3rd Ave Rome, Ga 30161

706-291-6033

Seven Hills Fellowship 530 Broad Street Rome, GA 30161

706-530-1630

Silver Creek Presbyterian Church 6 Old Rockmart Road Silver Creek, Ga 30173

706-234-6862

Westminster Presbyterian Church 1941 Shorter Ave Rome, Ga 30165

706-235-8561

Seventh-Day Adventist

Rome Bethany Seventh-Day Adventist Church 307 E 14th St SW Rome, Ga 30161

706-292-0067

Seventh-Day Adventist Church 2526 Cedartown Hwy SW Rome, Ga 30161

706-234-4117

Cave Spring Church Directory

Cave Spring Church of God

19 Mill Street

Cave Spring, GA 30124

706-777-8348

Grace Fellowship Baptist Church

6635 Blacks Bluff Rd SW

Cave Spring Ga 30124

706-346-9786

Live Oak Baptist Church

5506 GA-100

Cave Spring, GA 30124

706-777-8566

The Empty Tomb

5630 Fosters Mill Rd SW

Cave Spring, GA 30124

Rehoboth Missionary Baptist

6 Rehoboth Rd SW

Cave Spring, GA 30124

706-777-3313

First Baptist Church 4 Old Cedartown Rd.

Cave Spring, GA 30124

706-777-3566

Cave Spring UMC

30 Alabama Street

Cave Spring, GA 30124

706-777-8624

Jackson Chapel UMC

301 Jackson Chapel Rd

Cave Spring, GA 30125

706-777-3750

ò0 dNews for Relationships Plumb Line

by Jade Morgan

Afew years ago, I felt led to lead a devotion at our women’s meeting. I really thought I had the topic all worked out, but God kept a particular issue on my mind for days on end before the meeting. I could not seem to find the “perfect” verse to use, so I asked a few friends for advice on the topic. I was led to Amos 7:8.

Background:

● Amos was a shepherd and looked after fig trees.

● He was from Judah.

● God sent him to Israel.

● Jeroboam was King at the time and Israel became hugely successful. They had full control of the trade routes, thus becoming crazy rich. The Israelites thought they would always be this way, this successful.

● Although the Israelites believed in one God, and that He ruled the nations, He is their judge. He decides what is done about their sin, that worship is important and that they did not obey God’s law. Therefore, their worship did not bring anything good from God.

● Amos compared their behavior to that of their ancestors.

● Amos begged God to not reign total judgment on the Israelites; twice God complied.

● God wanted people to behave in a true way instead of sacrifices. Sacrifices are good, but behaving in a true way is more important.

Which brings us to Amos 7:7-8 AMPC:

“Thus He showed me, and behold, the Lord stood upon a wall with a plumb line, with a plumb line in His hand. And the Lord said to me, Amos, what do you see? And I said, A plumb line. Then said the Lord, Behold, I am setting a plumb line as a standard in the midst of My people Israel. I will not pass by and spare them any more [the door of mercy is shut].” A plumb line?

I looked up the definition: A plumb line is an object to which masons first build and frame walls of houses, and by which they do at any time measure them, whether they stand upright, or any way belly out and decline.

I still did not really get it. Then, I read that the word ‘plumb’ means: to a complete degree; exactly. Ex: “plumb tired.” Now that was a phrase I knew well. Click. I got it.

God is “measuring” the Israelites against the perfect standard: Jesus. When we sin, we start to bow, decline, or tilt. We lose our vertical alignment. Our standard, or plumb line, is and forever will be Jesus. He was sent to be the perfect example.

When relationships are considered, we cannot compare ourselves to others or compare our sin to others' sin. We cannot compare to justify. We answer to Jesus. Our relationship with Him is what matters most. He alone judges our sin. We know right from wrong– period. Just because my sin isn’t as “bad” as someone else’s does not mean it is permissible or accepted. Sin is not weighted differently.

The plumb line when perfectly straight, spins. The most beautiful spin too. When it is off kilter in any way, no spinning will occur.

I once heard this example and my goodness, the impact it has made in my life!

Think of a big city skyline. All of the buildings are different sizes, shapes, colors, etc. Some you notice immediately; some you have to look a bit more closely to see. Some stick out like a sore thumb but, that’s when we are looking straight at them. What about the view from above? When God looks down at that skyline from Heaven, He sees flat, straight across surfaces. None stick out more than others; none are bigger or smaller. They all look the exact same. This is like our sin.

It is not weighted by our Father in Heaven. Conviction looks different for everyone, but ultimately, our hearts know right from wrong. And that’s plumb clear!

Fall’s Finest Festival: The Coosa Valley Fair

by John W. Fortune

Dear friends,

Students are getting back into the classrooms; football is now in the news. With these activities in full swing, you know the Coosa Valley Fair is fast approaching! The “Fall’s Finest Festival” is coming to town for its annual visit. The Fair Association works throughout the year to be ready for its arrival. Are you ready? Make plans to attend!

This year is a very special year for the Coosa Valley Fair. This special event was formed for our community in 1949. This year marks the 75th year of fun at the Fair! (Having missed only one year due to COVID-19). It is truly a blessing that we have had a fair for so many years. It has continued to be successful for several generations, and everyone still enjoys the fun at the Fair.

Wade Shows has been our partner in this adventure for decades and brings safe and exciting rides, midway attractions, and games to test your skills plus there will be more than enough cotton candy, candy apples, corndogs, and plenty of your other favorite fair foods.

The world has changed a lot over the years, but it seems the fundamentals of this Fair still exist to this day. The Fair started as an agricultural fair and we still have cows and sheep in our cattle barn. Our young children train and show these fine animals for competition, winning ribbons that they are proud to show off. We have a petting zoo for children (and adults) to see animals up close that they may not have seen before. Local businesses will have new tractors and equipment, and other things on display for the farm and your yard.

This event is very much a community fair. Food booth rentals are available for local non-profits. Most of the funds

from this year’s event will go to help the local community of Rome and Floyd County. This is a huge fundraiser for the Coosa Valley Fair because proceeds go back into maintaining the fairgrounds so that other organizations have a place to hold many events throughout the year.

Community is still very visual in the Community Building, as there are schools, local clubs, and local Veterans groups that have displays to promote and educate the public on what they do each day to help our community.

We have many ways for folks in the North GA area to show off their talents and take home some bragging rights. Also in the Community Building, we have our local talent displayed through quilts, pottery, woodworking, painted china, arts and crafts, and homemade scarecrows. Baked items and home canning are also entries in this building. We have a huge flower, fruit, and vegetable display also in competition for ribbons.

In a separate building, we have a display to show off the area’s artistic talent and photography at all skill levels.

I will now mention the Village Building. It is full of local small businesses and some not so small. These folks want to promote their business in the old-fashioned way with oneon-one contact with visitors. Go browse through the Village Building and pick up some snacks and sweet goods while you check out the tractors, lawnmowers, all-terrain vehicles, and motorcycles, plus visit with various political groups and church groups from our community. Also, Michael Frisbee will be back with his magic act, and he is always drawing a crowd.

The last building I will mention is the Special Events building. With its audience of mothers, dads, grandparents, family, and friends, this building is a very exciting place to be any night during the Fair. It is by far the most exciting place each night, to say the least! It is home to our beauty pageant featuring all age groups where our Miss Coosa Valley Fair will be crowned. This building also hosts the cheerleading competition. Come cheer for your favorites!

A couple of special things that will also occur will be our Senior Day plus some special events early each day for students to enjoy.

The entire Coosa Valley Fair experience is designed to have fun and make memories that will last a lifetime. Our very professional parking team will get you parked, and the efficient folks at the admission gates will get you into the Fair without delay. During your visit, our local police and security team will be on-site and working diligently to ensure you have a safe time at the Fair.

I am very proud to be President of the 75th Coosa Valley Fair, as I have also been coming to the Fair for many years. I have ridden the rides, eaten the food, and enjoyed the sights, sounds, and smells of the Coosa Valley Fair. I have taken home my share of stuffed animals and won many a fish-in-the-bowl at the ring toss! In my later years, my kids and grandchildren have attended with me. We have enjoyed making memories together.

So clear your calendars, mark the dates, make plans, and bring your family and friends to the Coosa Valley Fair any time (or multiple times!) during October 1 - 5, 2024.

Last but not least, I wish to express a special thanks to the members of The Coosa Valley Fair Association for making 75 years of fair fun possible.

Sincerely,

John W. Fortune 2024 President,

Coosa Valley Fair Association

OCTOBER 1 - 5, 2024

The Hilarious Misadventures of the Rabbit-Trappin’ Smiths

by Charles Finney

Once upon a time, there lived a family as rural and uneducated as they come - the Smiths. The Smiths were known for their unconventional ways including finding humor in the simplest of things. One fine day, the head of the Smith clan, Farmer Jeb, decided it was high time he caught himself a rabbit for supper. Armed with nothing but a rusty old trap and a heart full of determination, he set out on a misadventure that would soon have the whole town laughing.

The Smiths' idea of a trap was unique. It consisted of a broken laundry basket, a piece of string, and an empty moonshine jug. Jeb figured if he placed the jug just right, any rabbit lured by its shiny surface would get caught in the basket when it fell over. He proudly set up his trap, convinced that he had outsmarted every rabbit in the county. Little did Jeb know, his plan was about as foolproof as a screen door on a submarine.

Grandma Smith, a wise old woman despite her lack of formal education, was sitting on the porch, her Bible in her lap. She had a habit of finding solace and wisdom in the scriptures, even if she didn't always understand them. On this particular day, she was reading aloud from the King James Version of Psalm 25:14-15, her voice carrying across the fields like a gentle breeze: “The secret of the Lord is with them that fear Him; and He will show them His covenant. Mine eyes are ever toward the Lord, for He shall pluck my feet out of the net.”

Little did Grandma know, her words would soon have a whole new meaning for the Smith family.

Back at the rabbit trap, Jeb waited patiently, hidden behind a bush, convinced he was about to make culinary history. Unbeknownst to him, a curious raccoon had caught wind of the shiny moonshine jug. Fascinated, it approached the trap, reaching for the jug.

Just then, the laundry basket fell with a loud thud, trapping the raccoon inside. The raccoon darted around, creating a ruckus that could wake the dead. Jeb, thinking he had caught the most ferocious rabbit ever, leaped from behind the bush, armed with a broom.

“Pa's caught a demon rabbit!” shouted Jeb's youngest son, Billy, running toward the chaos with wide eyes.

Grandma Smith closed her Bible and made her way to the scene. Seeing the raccoon trapped in the laundry basket, she chuckled.

“Jeb, that ain't no rabbit. You’ve caught yourself a bandit!” she said, her eyes twinkling with amusement.

Jeb scratched his head, realizing his folly. The family erupted into laughter, even the raccoon seemed to chitter in amusement as if it knew it had outsmarted the great rabbit trapper.

As they released the raccoon back into the wild, Jeb wiped tears of laughter from his eyes. “Well, I reckon that's one way to catch a critter, even if it ain't the one I was aimin' for.”

Grandma nodded sagely. “Sometimes, life's lessons come in unexpected ways, Jeb. Just like how the good Lord shows us His secrets in mysterious ways.”

When the Smiths gathered around the dinner table, they shared tales of their day. Grandma Smith brought up the scripture she had read earlier. “You know,” she said, her eyes twinkling, “maybe the meaning of life is a lot like that raccoon. Sometimes, you think you're chasing one thing, but life surprises you with something entirely different.”

The family pondered Grandma's words, and then, as if on cue, burst into laughter once more. And in that moment, surrounded by love, laughter, and the warmth of family, the Smiths realized that the meaning of life wasn't some grand mystery to be solved, but a series of moments, both big and small, that brought joy and laughter, even in the most unexpected of circumstances.

Sovereign God, Where Is My Free Will?

by Filip Brunner

As our Father, God is interested in us on a very personal and intimate level. As our Father, God will let us mess up. The prophet Jonah was told by God to go to the city of Nineveh and cry out against it, warning them to repent or be overthrown.

Jonah hated the Ninevites, and rightfully so. They were a bunch of angry, sadistic sinners. And yet God loved them enough to warn them to repent. God’s sovereign will was for the Ninevites to repent and to turn to Him. Jonah’s will for the Ninevites was literally to: “…go to hell Nineveh, with my blessings.”

God wants to see lives changed. Jonah wants justice to be done.

Sound familiar?

1 Corinthians 6:9-11 KJV

“Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God. And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.”

What is the will of God for my life?

God wants:

● Abraham, the liar, to be the father of a nation.

● Moses, the murderer, to be the leader of a nation.

● David, the adulterer, to be the father of Solomon.

● Saul, the mass murderer, to become Paul, the writer of most of the New Testament.

● Gideon, the coward, to be a mighty warrior.

Let me invite you to consider this. My will is to do my thing, to go into the far country and live with the pigs. The Father’s will is for me to see His love, His goodness and to come to my senses and come back home. Then and only then can I enjoy the freedom and the gifts of the new clothes, the signet ring and the food at the Father’s table. It is only when I surrender to the will of the Father that I can have true freedom. Not to do my best but to do His best for my life. It is here, in the Father’s house and in the company of Jesus that we can be free not to sin. We gain the power of the Holy Spirit to bask in the presence of the Sovereign God. And so, it is the foreknowledge of God which bridges the age old question, “Is God Sovereign or do we have free will?” Because God is all knowing, we have the freedom through Christ to do God’s Sovereign will. Just like Esther, we were born for such a time as this. Readers, here you have something to think about.

– Gregory M. Rogers, MD

Learning About God Through Autumn Leaves

Autumn is a special time of year when the leaves on the trees change colors and fall to the ground. These changes can teach us a lot about God and our faith. Let’s explore some fun lessons about autumn leaves and see what the Bible has to say.

Embracing Change

In autumn, the green leaves turn into beautiful shades of red, orange, and yellow. This reminds us that change can be beautiful. The Bible says in *Ecclesiastes 3:1, “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.” Just like the leaves change, we also go through

different seasons in our lives, and God is with us through all of them. Think about a time when something changed in your life. How did it turn out to be a good thing? How did God help you through that change?

The Beauty of Letting Go

When the leaves fall from the trees, it shows us that sometimes we need to let go of old things to make room for new things. Jesus teaches us in Matthew 16:25, “For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it.” Letting go can be hard, but it helps us grow and trust God more. Is there something you need to let go of, like a worry or a fear? How can trusting God help you let it go?

The Reminder of Life’s Cycles

The seasons change every year in a cycle: spring, summer, autumn, and winter. This reminds us that life has different times, too. Psalm 1:3 says, “That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither—whatever they do prospers.” When we stay close to God, we can grow and be strong, no matter what season of life we are in. What are some ways you can stay close to God every day? How does it make you feel strong and happy?

Preparation and Rest

Autumn is a time when many animals get ready for winter. They gather food and prepare to rest. This reminds us that rest is important. Hebrews 4:9-10 tells us, “There remains, then, a Sabbath-rest for the people of God; for anyone who enters God's rest also rests from their works, just as God did from his.” Just like the animals, we need to rest and trust God to take care of us. What are some ways you can rest and spend time with God? Why is rest important?

The Assurance of New Beginnings

After the leaves fall and winter comes, we know that spring will follow, and new leaves will grow. Isaiah 43:19 says, “See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?” God is always doing new things in our lives, just like new leaves grow in spring. Can you think of a time when something new and exciting happened in your life? How did it make you feel to know that God was with you?

Autumn leaves are not just beautiful to look at; they also teach us important lessons about God. They remind us that change can be good, letting go is important, life has different seasons, rest is needed, and new beginnings are always possible. Next time you see the colorful leaves falling, remember these lessons and thank God for His wonderful creation and His love for us.

*All Scriptures NIV

for Everyone When Life Overwhelms Us

by Dr. Alan Hix

Do you sometimes face situations in which you feel completely overwhelmed by circumstances, yet you must find a way to move forward? In these moments, we need more than mere courage; we need a source of strength beyond ourselves. Judges 6:11-16 reveals a profound encounter between Gideon and God in which Gideon finds boldness in the assurance of God's presence despite overwhelming circumstances.

Gideon was threshing wheat in a winepress to hide it from the Midianites. At any moment they might appear to steal the hard-earned harvest. Gideon may have felt overwhelmed by fear and uncertainty, yet, in this very ordinary moment, an extraordinary encounter unfolds. The angel of the Lord appears and addresses Gideon with an unexpected greeting: “The Lord is with you, mighty warrior!”

In modern language, Gideon's response was something like, “Who me? I’m not anybody, and my family is not important.” To take the focus off himself, he raises concerns about the apparent absence of divine intervention in the face of the Israelites' suffering. In other words, Gideon is saying, “God, where have you been all this time?”

Undeterred by Gideon’s accusation, God assures Gideon of His divine plan for delivering Israel from the Midianites. The insignificance of Gideon’s family and his own sense of personal inadequacy become irrelevant in the face of God's empowering promise: “I will be with you, and you will strike down all the Midianites, leaving none alive.”

Gideon's journey from doubt to acceptance is reflected in his acknowledgment of God's promise. It is not Gideon's might but God's presence that defines the outcome of the challenge before him. In response to God’s promise, Gideon finds the courage to embrace God’s call upon his life.

In this story, we find an important truth: God's promises are not contingent on our qualifications or abilities. His presence transforms our inadequacies into opportunities for His glory to be revealed. When we face challenges, we are not alone; we are carriers of the divine presence, and God's promises resonate with the assurance that we will overcome through His strength.

Because of this assurance, we can face our challenges with renewed confidence. Like Gideon, our focus shifts from our limitations to God's unlimited power. His assurance enables us to step into situations that seem overwhelming, knowing that we have the promise of His presence.

The promise, “I will be with you,” was the same one given to Moses, Jeremiah, and Isaiah when they expressed their own sense of unworthiness: “I can’t speak.” and “I am only a

youth.” and “I am a man of unclean lips.” When Joshua found himself having to step into Moses’ shoes, God's promise to him was: “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9 ESV).

In the encounter between Gideon and God, we discover a timeless truth: God's presence transforms fear into courage, doubt into faith, and weakness into strength.

As we navigate life's challenges, let us take courage in the promise that we are not alone. Looking forward to the time when God would send His messiah, Isaiah declared, “Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call His name Immanuel (which means, God with us)” (Isaiah 7:14 ESV).

God's declaration, "I will be with you," invites us to face difficulties with unwavering confidence, knowing that in His presence, we find the courage to face our challenges in His strength.

dNews for Everyone

Hope Prevails: Rodney Waddell’s Testimony

by Sandra Gilmore

“They were treating me for one thing but it was definitely another,” Rodney Waddell explains.

“Earlier that day, I knew something just wasn’t right when I was in my garage at home. I beat on the car to alert my wife. She called for help and the paramedics were on their way in moments.”

At the initial survey, all the signs of a heart attack were there. EMTs did their best to get Waddell stabilized en route to the hospital for more specialized care. Later, it was discovered that he suffered from an aortic dissection, a rare and extremely dangerous condition where the inner layer of the aorta, the large blood vessel branching off the heart, tears. Blood surges through the tear, causing the inner and middle layers of the aorta to split (dissect). This leads to massive internal bleeding, leaving a mere 7-10 minute window for effective medical intervention before the risk of bleeding out becomes imminent. Statistically, only about one-third of people survive such an event and the subsequent surgery. For Rodney, it was about focusing on the One who could heal and save him, not the statistics of an anticipated one-third survival rate.

This ordeal began on November 15, 2018. After 45 days in the hospital, Rodney resumed his normal routines with his family and on his delivery route. And yet, what could be seen as mundane became miraculous. Before his heart event, Rodney went about his days with a deep belief in the Lord. After the heart event, plus other health challenges, each day became a treasure and an opportunity to share with others just how much God cares about our lives. The blessings of daily life became more evident. He takes more joy from each day. Laughter, problem-solving, and engaging with people are now elevated components of his days rather than just simple parts of daily routines.

“He is with me, I know that for sure,” Rodney confirms as he shares with individuals as well as groups and/or congregations in churches throughout the Rome, GA area. You see, the aortic dissection wasn’t the only battle Rodney faced. The hurdles he met next were COVID-19 in 2020, then a stroke in 2021, and more recently cancer in 2022. The span from November 2018 to May 2022 tested Rodney’s resolve and physical strength.

His family stood strong during each health episode. His wife, children, and grandchildren supported him with faithful prayers and unwavering commitment. Hope was and is a staple in their lives.

Scriptures that stayed with Rodney were James 1:2 KJV, “My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations.” and 1 Corinthians 10:13 KJV, “There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.”

Rodney adds, “I want to acknowledge my former and current pastors that have helped me along this journey: Pastor Mike Garrett from Dykes Creek and Pastor Mac McCurry of Pleasant Valley North Baptist both in Rome, Georgia for their guidance. There have been others who have and are dealing with various issues and they’ve asked me questions. I can only speak from my experience to just keep their heads up and know that they are not alone down this path called life.”

Someone recently asked, “Did you see a light?” Rodney replied with deep conviction, “Well, not exactly. I guess when you are walking in the Light, you don't have to look for it!”

Gò0 dNews for your Taste Buds

Savor the Season with Autumn BBQ

It was that special time of year when kids reluctantly traded their carefree summer days for the rigors of school.

The Johnson family had a tradition that helped ease the transition: a back-to-school BBQ. They knew gathering around the grill brought them together in a way that nothing else could. It was the perfect way to celebrate the end of summer and welcome the new school year.

Early Saturday morning found Dad, a seasoned grill master, venturing into the garage to dust off the trusty old barbecue. He couldn’t help but reminisce about all the family gatherings around that grill over the years. Meanwhile, Mom began preparing the marinated chicken that would be the star of the BBQ. She had a secret marinade recipe passed down from her grandmother, a recipe that had been perfected over generations. As she mixed the ingredients together, she thought about how proud her grandmother would be to see her carrying on the family tradition.

Their two kids, Emily and Alex, were tasked with setting up the backyard. They draped colorful streamers from tree to tree, and their laughter filled the air as they blew up balloons.

Dad carefully placed the marinated chicken on the grates. The sizzle and aroma of the cooking meat wafted through the air, drawing neighbors out of their homes and into the backyard. The Johnsons’ back-to-school BBQ was known throughout the neighborhood as the unofficial endof-summer party, and everyone was eager to join in. The family dog, Max, couldn’t contain his excitement either. He darted around the yard, stealing glances at the grill in the hopes that a juicy piece of chicken might fall his way. As the guests arrived, old friends and new neighbors mingled, sharing stories of their summer adventures and dreams for the upcoming school year. Energetic children ran through the yard, chasing each other as Max chased them.

Finally, the moment arrived when Dad declared the chicken was ready. He placed the perfectly grilled pieces onto a platter and carried it to the picnic table. The family

gathered around, savoring the flavors of the chicken and sides and the warmth of each other’s company.

The Johnsons and their guests were reminded once again that the best way to start a new chapter was surrounded by the love of family and friends, good food, and the comforting glow of the grill.

Lemon Garlic Marinade

Ingredients

1/4 cup olive oil

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)

2-3 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried oregano

Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, a pinch of salt, and a pinch of black pepper. Place your choice of protein (chicken, fish, shrimp, tofu, or vegetables) in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the lemon garlic marinade over the protein. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to marinate. For best results, marinate for 2-4 hours or even overnight, depending on the thickness of the protein. When you’re ready to cook, remove the protein from the marinade and grill, roast, or pan-fry as desired. (Discard the used marinade.)

Autumn Leaves

by Juliana Horatia Ewing

The Spring's bright tints no more are seen, And Summer's ample robe of green Is russet-gold and brown; When flowers fall to every breeze And, shed reluctant from the trees, The leaves drop down.

A sadness steals about the heart, —And is it thus from youth we part, And life's redundant prime? Must friends like flowers fade away, And life like Nature know decay, And bow to time?

And yet such sadness meets rebuke, From every copse in every nook Where Autumn's colours glow; How bright the sky! How full the sheaves!

What mellow glories gild the leaves

Before they go.

Then let us sing the jocund praise, In this bright air, of these bright days, When years our friendships crown; The love that's loveliest when 'tis old-When tender tints have turned to gold And leaves drop down.

for Health & Fitness

The Most Important Exercise for Fat Loss

by Thomas Morrison

Many believe that plenty of “fat burning” cardiovascular exercise is the best way to take off weight fast—and while that can have some value, it would not be the best exercise for that purpose. The best exercise to do while on a weight loss diet is actually weight training! Let me explain why.

Weight Training Prevents Muscle Loss While Dieting.

The reality is that most people can only burn an average of about 5-10 calories per minute in any form of exercise. With over 3,500 calories stored in every pound of fat, it is necessary to put in an average of 6-11 hours of exercise just to burn one pound! This is why the primary method to burn fat is your diet—NOT your exercise program. The main purpose of your exercise program is NOT to burn calories— it is to preserve muscle!

In general, without weight training, you will lose at least three pounds of lean weight out of every 10 total pounds you lose. And doing aerobic exercise like walking, jogging, and the like does not help. Back in 1999, researchers put overweight men on a 1500 calorie a day diet, and divided them into three groups—one that didn’t exercise, another that performed aerobic exercise three days a week, and a third that did both aerobic exercise and weight training three days a week. The results: Each of the groups lost almost the same amount of weight—about 21 pounds. But the lifters shed 5 more pounds of fat than those who didn’t pump iron. Why? Because their

weight loss was almost pure fat, while the other two groups lost just 15 pounds of fat, along with several pounds of lean body mass (aka muscle).

Just because your scale weight may show similar results whether you exercise or not, don't assume that the right kind of exercise isn't providing a significant benefit. The diet + weight training group lost 25% more fat than just dieting alone, or even dieting + aerobic exercise! Remember, muscle burns fat. And one pound of muscle takes up 18 percent less space on your body than a pound of fat. Hear that ladies? Hit weights when you diet—they’ll make you smaller, not bigger!

Weight Training Helps Preserve Your Resting Metabolism

Dieting and weight loss, by its nature, will cause your metabolism to drop—so anything that you can do to keep it burning hot is a step in the right direction. In fact, your resting metabolism will account for at least 2/3rd of all the calories you burn! And there is no more time efficient way to boost your metabolism than by weight training. Even training as little as three times a week for 20-30 minutes each time can help boost metabolism close to an additional 100 calories per day! The typical woman would have to walk a couple miles daily to get the same net calorie burn, and yet, she still wouldn’t lose as much fat without weight training!

Weight Training Improves Your Body Shape

The primary reason most people diet or try to lose fat is not simply to record a lower number on the scale—that is quite incidental. No, what most people want is to look better and be happier with their physique. As we have seen, simply dieting or doing cardio will cause you to lose both fat and muscle so that the end result is just a smaller fat person. At best you will be “skinny-fat”— smaller and thinner than before, but still soft and flabby rather than hard and lean. Weight training helps you to optimize body composition rather than just losing weight indiscriminately. Instead of just becoming smaller, you actually get leaner. So don’t wait to get lean, use weights!

Surrounded by natural splendor on the banks of Eagle Lake, the simple things in life are made even better at The Spires. With all the serenity of our 27,000 wooded acres yet all the vitality of our location at Berry College, it’s second nature to explore new opportunities and make genuine connections when you’re here.

This spectacular setting is brought to life by resort-style amenities, chef-prepared dining, friendly neighbors and a carefree lifestyle — plus the assurance of quality care available on-site if ever needed.