Category Archives: self-help

Church Newsletter from Georgetown, Kentucky

By Iris Thompson, Church Newsletter Contributor

Greetings from Georgetown, Kentucky, where life has a pace that feels just right—calm, quiet, and full of charm. It’s a place that welcomes you with open arms, offering that peaceful, small-town vibe, but with easy access to the bustling energy of nearby cities like Frankfort and Louisville. For those of us who call Georgetown home, we’re lucky to enjoy the best of both worlds.

Situated just a short drive away from Lexington, the Horse Capital of the World, Georgetown feels a world apart from the fast-paced excitement of its neighbor. The city, often fondly referred to as G-Town by locals, has a slower, more relaxed rhythm that makes it an ideal place to raise a family, enjoy the outdoors, or just unwind after a long week. Yet, in the blink of an eye, we can find ourselves in one of the nearby cities—whether it’s a shopping spree in Lexington, dinner in Frankfort, or a weekend excursion to Louisville. With such easy access to these wonderful places, we’re able to strike the perfect balance between serenity and opportunity.

Growth and Expansion in Georgetown

Over the years, Georgetown has seen a remarkable transformation. The driving force behind much of this growth is the massive Toyota manufacturing plant that calls G-Town home. This global company’s presence has played a huge role in not only expanding the city’s population but also in making it a key player in Kentucky’s economy. Many families have moved here to be close to the plant, which has in turn attracted new restaurants, shops, and even more family-owned businesses to the area.

The growth has brought a lot of changes, but Georgetown has managed to maintain its warm, welcoming, and small-town atmosphere. It’s the kind of place where neighbors know each other by name, where the streets are lined with trees and locally owned shops, and where you’ll often find families sitting on porches, chatting as the sun sets. Despite its increasing popularity, Georgetown has managed to hold on to the charm that makes it so unique.

As a result, Georgetown has become an attractive option for those looking for a quieter lifestyle without giving up access to big-city amenities. The Toyota plant has been a source of prosperity for the town, and with that, G-Town has also expanded its array of dining options, retail shops, and entertainment choices. Yet, even with these modern additions, there is a deep respect for Georgetown’s history and its agricultural roots, which are on full display in the surrounding fertile farms.

A Family-Friendly Town with Small-Town Heart

One of the things I love most about Georgetown is the strong sense of community. It’s not just a place where people live; it’s a place where people care for one another. Whether it’s a neighbor helping with groceries or local businesses supporting charitable causes, there’s a palpable sense of togetherness here. This is perhaps most evident in our church family, where we come together not only to worship but to lend a hand to those in need.

Georgetown’s family-owned businesses also play a big role in making this town feel like home. From mom-and-pop diners serving up delicious home-cooked meals to local boutiques that offer unique gifts and clothing, these businesses give Georgetown a personal touch that larger cities often lack. Shopping locally in G-Town means you’re not just supporting a business—you’re supporting a neighbor, a friend, and the heart of the community.

The farms surrounding Georgetown are another important part of the town’s identity. With fertile soil and a long history of agriculture, many local farms grow fresh produce and raise livestock that help feed not only our town but the entire region. The presence of so many farms is a reminder of the values that shaped this town, and it’s always heartwarming to see a local farmer at the market or a church event sharing their bountiful harvest.

Access to Amenities, Without the Hustle and Bustle

While Georgetown may feel like a small town, it offers plenty of modern amenities to make life comfortable. The town has experienced a noticeable rise in its popularity, particularly over the past couple of decades, and with that rise has come an increase in restaurants and shops catering to a growing population. In recent years, we’ve seen new eateries pop up, offering everything from classic comfort food to international cuisine, giving residents more dining options than ever before.

For those of us who enjoy dining out, Georgetown has certainly stepped up its game. A night out for dinner no longer means a long drive to Lexington or Louisville. Whether you’re in the mood for a cozy café, a farm-to-table experience, or a night of Italian cuisine, Georgetown’s restaurant scene has it all. The best part? The majority of these places are family-owned, adding that personal touch to your dining experience.

In addition to dining, G-Town has also expanded its shopping scene. Though it may not have the expansive malls of a larger city, Georgetown boasts a variety of charming stores that offer everything from home décor to clothing to gifts. For those of us looking to do a little retail therapy, the locally owned shops are a perfect place to spend an afternoon. And for those seeking more traditional shopping experiences, Lexington is just a short drive away, with its mix of big-box stores and high-end retail outlets.

Georgetown also benefits from its proximity to Frankfort, the state’s capital, and Louisville, which is brimming with cultural events, attractions, and activities. Whether it’s a trip to Frankfort’s historical sites, a visit to Louisville’s museums, or taking in a Kentucky Derby event, G-Town residents can easily venture out to explore all that these cities have to offer.

A Place to Worship and Grow Together

The small-town feel of Georgetown extends to our church as well. I’m blessed to be part of a close-knit congregation where we support one another through thick and thin. Our church has been a vital part of the community, helping us grow spiritually while also giving back to the town we love. It’s not just about Sunday services; it’s about being there for each other, sharing in the joys and sorrows of life, and showing up when someone needs a hand.

The church, much like Georgetown itself, has a humble, welcoming atmosphere that makes you feel like you belong. Whether it’s a Sunday sermon, a youth group meeting, or a community event, you’re bound to find people here who are willing to lend a helping hand or share a kind word. Our town is a living example of the kind of unity and support that comes from shared faith and mutual respect.

In Conclusion

In the end, Georgetown is a place that offers the best of both worlds: the peacefulness of small-town life with the convenience of being close to larger cities. With its booming population, growing economy, and abundance of local businesses, Georgetown has certainly changed over the years, but it has managed to hold on to the things that make it special—its community spirit, its respect for history, and its small-town charm. It’s a town where neighbors help neighbors, where the pace is slower, and where you can always find a familiar face.

As we continue to grow, it’s important to remember what makes Georgetown unique: its people. We may be surrounded by big cities and large corporations, but the heart of G-Town lies in its local businesses, its farmers, and its vibrant church community. There’s no place I’d rather be.

Blessings,
Iris Thompson

Claiming Your Divine Inheritance Through Faith


Faith is central to embracing the promises of God. When the Israelites stood at the threshold of the Promised Land, they faltered in faith, seeing the challenges as insurmountable rather than the opportunities as divinely ordained. Their lack of belief led to 40 years of wandering and unfulfilled potential. Similarly, when we face obstacles, we must remember that divine provision does not automatically materialize in our lives. Instead, it must be claimed through steadfast faith.

God’s grace provides healing, redemption, and victory, but these blessings must be actively received. The act of faith involves standing firm and declaring, “This is mine, paid for by Christ.” Healing and wholeness are part of God’s promise, yet they require us to engage spiritually by believing, speaking, and expecting His Word to manifest. This process is not dependent on human strength or ability; it is a commitment to trust in God’s power.

Symptoms of sickness or trials in life can challenge even the strongest believers. However, these challenges should not lead to shame or self-doubt. Believers are not called to heal themselves or make every issue disappear through their own efforts. Instead, their role is to stand firm, unwavering in their trust, and declare their redemption. Faith requires persistence, a refusal to accept defeat, and a declaration of God’s promises over our lives. With God, nothing is too hard, no diagnosis too severe, and no situation beyond redemption.

Healing and redemption extend beyond physical conditions to mental and emotional well-being. Just as the Israelites were redeemed from slavery, believers today are redeemed from confusion, fear, and sorrow. By declaring freedom from such afflictions and aligning ourselves with God’s Word, we can experience the peace and wholeness that Christ has already purchased.

Redemption from the Curse
The redemptive work of Christ encompasses freedom from all forms of curse as outlined in the Law. This includes physical ailments, emotional struggles, and inherited conditions. Deuteronomy 28 describes various afflictions, from external sores and boils to internal disorders, yet Galatians 3:13 reminds believers that Christ has redeemed us from every curse. His sacrifice on the cross was sufficient to break the hold of every sickness, disease, and inherited ailment.

Believers must take ownership of this redemption by boldly declaring it. The act of vocalizing one’s freedom and healing aligns the believer with God’s truth, reinforcing faith and countering doubt. This approach is not about denying the reality of symptoms or challenges but about asserting God’s authority over them.

Inherited conditions or generational struggles often weigh heavily on families. Many people accept these issues as inevitable, believing them to be part of their genetic or familial identity. However, Scripture offers a powerful alternative: freedom from every inherited curse. Christ’s redemptive work ensures that no generational ailment or curse has the right to persist in the life of a believer. Through faith, believers can break free from these chains, declaring the power of redemption over themselves and their descendants.

Persistent or recurring illnesses are another area of focus. The notion that some afflictions are “too chronic” or “too severe” is contrary to biblical teaching. Redemption covers all forms of sickness, including those considered incurable or prolonged. Rather than passively accepting such conditions, believers are called to resist, stand firm, and affirm their healing.

Living in Redemption
Living in the fullness of redemption requires active faith and consistent engagement with God’s Word. Just as the Israelites had to fight to possess the Promised Land, believers must actively claim their inheritance in Christ. This includes declaring freedom from fear, depression, confusion, and all forms of mental or emotional torment. Redemption extends to every area of life, ensuring that believers can experience peace, joy, and clarity.

Christians often struggle with feelings of inadequacy, guilt, or unworthiness, especially when faced with challenges. However, redemption assures that forgiveness and righteousness are already granted through Christ. Believers are called to embrace their identity as redeemed and righteous individuals, walking in the authority and freedom that comes with it.

Building this faith requires immersion in Scripture and a deliberate focus on God’s promises. Personal testimonies, like the story of a young woman who overcame terminal illness through unwavering faith, illustrate the transformative power of believing and acting on God’s Word. Her journey highlights the importance of feeding on Scripture, maintaining a confession of faith, and refusing to give in to doubt.

Believers must adopt an attitude of relentless faith, speaking God’s promises over every situation. This includes boldly declaring freedom from illnesses, mental struggles, and generational curses, while refusing to accept any condition as permanent. By doing so, they align themselves with God’s will and position themselves to experience His blessings fully.

Redemption is not just a theological concept; it is a lived reality for those who dare to believe, stand firm, and declare God’s promises over their lives. It requires persistence, courage, and a deep trust in the redemptive power of Christ. Through this unwavering faith, believers can experience victory in every area of life, living as evidence of God’s grace and power.