#inspiration

Political Divide

In the United States, we have fallen into a trap. A dangerous trap. We have decided that our only “friends” can be the people we agree with politically. I’m not sure how we got here.

Since the founding of the United States, we have had disagreements about politics and policies. For a long time it was healthy debate, not unhealthy hatred. We could battle things out but go have a drink afterwards. Everything was good between us. Why did it change?

People aren’t robots. They have thoughts, feelings, dreams and desires. They rarely align perfectly with everyone else’s aspirations. We must come to the realization that it’s okay to disagree. And we can do it without destroying relationships…

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#inspiration

Doubt

Do you doubt yourself? If so, why? You didn’t have doubts as a child. None of us walked perfectly when we started walking, but we never doubted our ability to master walking.

The world is hard and harsh. Our setbacks can cause doubt to creep in. But the lessons from childhood are still relevant. Don’t give up on your dreams, no matter what! Go for what turns you on and never look back.

You can do anything you set your mind to. Anything

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#spirituality

Useful

The word useful means “able to be used for a practical purpose or in several ways.” A car is useful to get us where we need to be. Sleep is useful, too, when you think about it.

Let’s consider the people God used. King David was an adulterer. Gideon was deeply insecure and afraid, always doubting God. And Moses was a murderer. Yet God used them in awe-inspiring ways. They are prominent figures in the Bible, the greatest book ever written.

If God used them, perhaps He can use me, too. I believe I’ll let Him…

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#spirituality

The Determined People Podcast: Interview with Chris Almendarez

Today’s guest is a devout man of God whose world came crashing down on him in 2015 when his lovely wife Jana was diagnosed with cancer. Chris Almendarez, president of the Round Rock Express Minor League Baseball team, joins us to share his story of faith and love, how God has guided him through the most difficult times in his life, and the amazing charity work that he has become involved in in honor of late wife. Towards the end, we also sneak in some baseball talk. Make sure to tune in for this harrowing tale of love, loss, and faith on today’s Determined People Podcast.

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#inspiration

Law Enforcement

I am pro-law enforcement. I know a good amount of dedicated police officers who do policing the right way. They are protectors, guardians and warriors combined into one.

Law enforcement officers have a unique skill set. They provide protection for everyone, including those who are protesting them. It’s a calling, for sure, and not for just anyone.

Let’s honor our devoted police men and women. They deserve it because they have earned it…

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#spirituality

Junk

What comes to mind when you hear the word “junk?” Perhaps you think of stuff that’s outdated or is no longer useful. Maybe it’s clutter you have been intending to get rid of but just haven’t made the effort.

Some people think of themselves as junk. They have been told they are worthless, not worth a damn. I grew up hearing this from both my parents. Talk about a crisis of identity!

God created all of us, and He doesn’t create junk. There is nothing random in God’s planning or execution.

Remember this: God did not create you and then forget about you. You are on His mind, even when you don’t feel His presence…

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#spirituality

As Common As DNA

We are all uncommon beings. God created us as unique and special individuals. Even identical twins have different fingerprints.

In the same vein our DNA strands are complex and beautifully created. The precision God used in making us shows how much He cares.

We sell ourselves short. We settle for a life that is less than what God equipped us for. Be bold. Pursue your calling…

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