Keep Your Edge, Proverbs 27

"You use steel to sharpen steel, and one friend sharpens another."

Proverbs 27:17

Sons of the Kingdom, your "Braveheart" moment is here. Are you engaged in the battle? Are your spritual and earthly weapons sharp and are you prepared for the battle ahead. I love the line, in "Braveheart" when the Irisman says "It's my island!" to Sir William Wallace. Meaning, that God was on his side and he took dominion over his fear and his commitment to the victory. He called in Heaven itself to his aid, like close air support on the attack.

The bible says that our children are "like arrows to the warrior." Well, we are someone's children ourselves and can be like "laser guided missiles" or "cluster bombs" in the "theatre of operation." Or even better, like a Marine on a mission. So, that means we are a deadly weapon to the warrior who orchestrates our lives, our heavenly father. We were designed and created for this very day to play a part in expanding the Kingdom of Heaven.

What battles are you fighting today? Who can you sharpen? Tactically, how can you join forces with others to take down strongholds and make a way where there seems to be no way. God is using his men to lead, but to lead we must first follow his direction and be guided. Our challenge in this era is to become "uncommon men" (quote from "The Miracle"). How common are you?


"Keeping Sharp"

Proverbs 27:22 - "Pound on a fool all you like—you can't pound out foolishness."

You and I can't help foolish people. We need to be on the alert for those who will impede successful execution of our objectives. A fool is someone who does not take direction, is eagerly angered, makes rash decisions, and creates trouble for others. An excellent example of fools in action is the "Extreme Chase" type TV programming we've seen. The culprit knows he is ultimately going to get caught by the law, but he endagers everyone's life and property to prolong the situation. Even when they are caught, they are still putting up a fight.

On Mission, On Assignment, and in the ZONE!

Andy Valadez
e-mail: Andy@TeamMarketingDynamics.com

2.15.09 The Marathon, Proverbs 15

"A life frittered away disgusts God; he loves those who run straight for the finish line."

Proverbs 15:19

The picture above is a poster of my cousin that I had created for him. He ran a full marathon in Houston several years ago. Our family was proud of him. In his run, he dedicated a mile to each of our family members (he prayed as he ran for each of us). We honored and celebrated him after the run and were very appreciative that he gave his all for each mile. He is a life champion and I admire his dedication to God.


Gianna Jessen, Survivor

Proverbs 15:20 - "Intelligent children make their parents proud; lazy students embarrass their parents."

I prayed over my eldest girl today to prepare her for a math test. I prayed that God would equip her with the ability to score very high and that she would have the desire to do well and study hard each and every day. We have to model our expectations for our children. I asked her to ask God for super natural abilities and for a desire to excel. She has made me proud by her attitude to run a good race.

On Mission, On Assignment, and in the ZONE!

Andy Valadez
e-mail: Andy@TeamMarketingDynamics.com

Rawhide, Proverbs 14

"No cattle, no crops; a good harvest requires a strong ox for the plow."

Proverbs 14:4
I am building an infrastructure for my business. I'm no cowboy, but this verse appeals to me, because it tells me I need to have cattle and a strong ox to get my businesss objectives complete. Cattle represent revenue opportunities as do crops, not to mention the food and substance for a the owner and his family. The ox are the hard workers that leverage one's own strength. So, I am praying and looking for oxen. I have plenty of business opportunities and lot's of seeds planted and as result a pending crop. The one thing I am missing is excellent and skilled labor. He will provide.


"The gullible cowboy."

Proverbs 14:15 - "The gullible believe anything they're told; the prudent sift and weigh every word."

I read recently that the inventors of the television and amplified sound both died broke. They trusted those they introduced there technology to, only to find that their knowledge had been stolen without any significant rewards for their hard labor. People promised them much, but did not honor their commitments. So, this verse cautions us not to be gullible. Test every word and verify.

On Mission, On Assignment, and in the ZONE!

Andy Valadez
e-mail: Andy@TeamMarketingDynamics.com

2.13.09 The Bright Life, Proverbs 13

"The lives of good people are brightly lit streets; the lives of the wicked are dark alleys."

Proverbs 13:9
"Heart Nebula" photo by Matt Russell

I don't like to be out in the city at night. Statistics show that criminals enjoy the cover of dark and feel more free to assault, drug deal, murder, rob, rape, etc. In addition, there are more drunk driving accidents at night. When I do go out at night, I am extra viligent and alert.

People reveal their personalities in how they treat people. Some are dark and some are light. I enjoy being around positive people who seem to exude the excitement and love of life and the knowing their eternal future. They know God and it shows. They truly have a bright life.


"A Glimpse of Heaven"

Proverbs 13:11 - "Easy come, easy go, but steady diligence pays off."

My father used to tell me "If it were easy, everybody would be doing it." Meaning, that nothing worth having is going to take work. Diligence however can seem like fool's work to many. Sometime people who are dedicated are seen as being odd.

I was commenting to a few business associates about the importance of diligence. I gave a great example of opportunities that people had missed, because they simply were not good at returning calls or replying to relevant e-mails. If you do this, you are not being diligent in all matters. You never know what opportunities are coming your way and should make it a point to address every matter (a little additional effort makes all of the difference).

On Mission, On Assignment, and in the ZONE!

Andy Valadez
e-mail: Andy@TeamMarketingDynamics.com

2.12.09 Airheads, Proverbs 12

"A person who talks sense is honored; airheads are held in contempt."

Proverbs 12:8
There seems to be a lot of talking heads, but people don't seem to be saying anything really important. However, many think they are making sense. It is rampant (myself included). There is an interesting dynamic when God gives wisdom in a matter. It seems to resonate with people. When we listen to God through prayer, we learn something about ourselves and others. Communicate God's love and if necessary use words.

This example happened to our family. I was at evening business meeting when my wife frantically called to tell me the house was flooding in the kitchen. A faucet hose had broken and she didn't know how to shut the water off and she and my girls were panicking. She could get under the sink, but the hot water was too hot to grant her access to the turn knob to shut off the water. When she called me, I really didn't know what to do until I remembered that we have a shutoff valve outside the house that controls the water flow to our entire home. Within minutes, she had the situation under control and the girls (who had been praying) were relieved to have avoided the impending flood and damage to our home (me too).

Here is the real message. The only reason I knew about this valve was because some of the neighbor kids, playing a practical joke had shut off the water years before. After calling the water district, the repairman diagnosed the problem. What we the thought was an evil prank years before helped us to avoid major damage to our entire house. Because I make it a point to answer my wife's call anytime she calls, we were able to stop the damage immediately and fortunately she was home to catch this situation in time. I pray over our home daily and it is amazing to me that God provides answers, years in advance. He said nothing, but we clearly understand how much he loves our family.


"Talking Heads"

Proverbs 12:16 - "Fools have short fuses and explode all too quickly; the prudent quietly shrug off insults."

I have been guilty of having a short fuse. I am a Marine afterall. I have experienced the wrath of a drill instructors who have a short tolerance for mistakes and boneheaded moves. Unfortunately, I developed that habit as well when it came to the mistakes of other people. In the military, the mission mindset is critical. In daily civilian life it may not be so critical. So, I have learned to be a little more gracious and forgive where needed. We should be slow to anger, but we must also realize that it is okay to have a holy anger and moral outrage when it comes to the things that must change.

On Mission, On Assignment, and in the ZONE!

Andy Valadez
e-mail: Andy@TeamMarketingDynamics.com

Hard Time, Proverbs 11

"A good person is saved from much trouble; a bad person runs straight into it."

Proverbs 11:8

God keeps us out of trouble. He knows our limits. However, some people do wind up in the snare. I can personally count the narrow misses myself, yet God protected me. "There but by the grace of God go I" has been murmured by many a Christian follower. We know we have been spared and God is using us for other purposes.

One of my neighbors is doing 4 years in prison. I walked by his house today and said a prayer for him. He has been in jail now going on several months (a huge contrast from his nice home and lush meticulously kept yard). I thanked God for sparing me his fate.

He had invited me to join the local Municipal District Board and I declined (althought I was curious). The board was later investigated for fraud and two of the members were exposed in the media all over the city. I later told my wife, I am so glad I never got on the board and around the bad company. I am sure they thought their indescretions were minor at first and then it became rampant and blatant to the tune of $100,000 taken from the neighborhood. The guys offered to pay it back, but it was too late. I feel sorry for the them, but they got justice.


"Former Prisoner Testimony"

Proverbs 11:27 - "The one who seeks good finds delight; the student of evil becomes evil."

What I love about God is that he takes all comers. If you are sincere and really want to change your life and pledge your allegiance to him, he will take you in and change your life. Many play a game and want to make the decision when it may be too late. The narrow path really is an exciting path, full of mystery, hope, desire, love, and adventure. We walk by faith and not by sight and that makes all of the difference.

On Mission, On Assignment, and in the ZONE!

Andy Valadez
e-mail: Andy@TeamMarketingDynamics.com

Be Excellent, Proverbs 10

"God is solid backing to a well-lived life, but he calls into question a shabby performance."

Proverbs 10:29
There is a great song we sing to the youth in our bible study that says, "Be excellent in all your ways." I often think about that song, its meaning and its inspiration to the children. As we grow, we may lose our flare for excellence. Oh we expect it from others, but may not have it ourselves. There are many areas in our lives that require maintenance. Excellence in our marriage, our relationships with our children, our family and friends, in business, in the community, and in our health. As I read this verse, I am feeling a little shabby in some of these key areas.


"Healing Rain" by Michael W. Smith

Proverbs 10:31 - "A good person's mouth is a clear fountain of wisdom; a foul mouth is a stagnant swamp."

When you speak, blog, write, podcast, or broadcast do people respond? Are you a clear fountain of wisdom? I love to hear great speakers. I have heard Tom Peters, John Maxwell, John Hagee, Joel Osteen, Ken Blanchard, Zig Ziglar, Rudy Ruettiger, and just love the wisdom they share with their audiences. Compared to them, I am a stagnant swamp. How do we become the orators of our generation? How do we garner influence with our words and deeds? Wisdom is the great equalizer. We should approach our relationships through wisdom and prayer. We will be given the words to speak and the guidance we need.

On Mission, On Assignment, and in the ZONE!

Andy Valadez
e-mail: Andy@TeamMarketingDynamics.com

Death Proof, Proverbs 9

"Leave your impoverished confusion and live! Walk up the street to a life with meaning."

Proverbs 9:6
I spent Friday and Saturday in Austin, Texas meeting with directors, writers, animators, and an independent record label representing over 2,500 indepdendent artists. I love the entertainment world and especially movies. I have been a fan of Quentin Tarantino's movies for some time; although, there is much controversy with his work. I admire the product of his cinema, because they are so grinding edge.

While in Austin, I visited "Texas Chili Parlor" where a scene from "Death Proof" was shot. The place was a cool "hole in the wall" type location. The food was pretty good too.

"Death Proof" is a bazarre movie for sure. A maniacle killer "Stuntman Mike," played by Kurt Russell, is on the loose. He ultimately faces justice at the hands of his supposed victims.

Movies offer us a little insight into the mayhem of evil. It causes us to wonder why evil exists and what makes people do the things they do. It is also a reminder that evil is out in the world and can only thrive when good people do nothing.


"I Was Here" BlueFishtTV

Proverbs 9:18 - "But they don't know about all the skeletons in her closet, that all her guests end up in hell."

The Christian walks leaves an impact, a legacy. Jesus's example has transcended over 2,000 years (the one name that causes much consternation). He overcame death. To become "Death Proof" we must accept the one who had victory over death.

On Mission, On Assignment, and in the ZONE!

Andy Valadez
e-mail: Andy@TeamMarketingDynamics.com

2.8.09 Private Jet, Proverbs 8

"Prefer my life-disciplines over chasing after money, and God-knowledge over a lucrative career."

Proverbs 8:10

I remember gettting updgraded to First Class on Continental Airlines in 1988. I was traveling back to Texas from my base in California while serving in the U.S. Marines. My friend McKenna was a stewardess to my surprise and came to my "coach" seat and told me "Mr. Valadez, there appears to have been a mistake in your seating arrangments, you have reservations in First Class." I was really surprised and enjoyed the comforts of the leather chairs and the champagne and VIP treatment on the 3 hour flight back to Texas. What a dream.

As an entrepreneur, I am working hard so that one day, my family can have some of the comforts that come with success. However, as we go on this journey, I am seeking out the balance that God would call me to live as we plan to share our treasure, talents, and our time. How much is too extravagant?

I'd love to have a private jet for my family and friends to travel on business or leisure, but in today's economy and questions of service to the Kingdom, would that be too much? God grants wisdom in such matters and since I don't have that problem now, I won't worry about it too much.


"Rich Young Ruler" movie scene "Jesus of Nazareth"

Proverbs 8:18 - "Wealth and Glory accompany me—also substantial Honor and a Good Name."

If you are a follower of Christ, you are an heir to the Kingdom. Your wealth has been established, although on this earth you may be poor in terms of material possessions. As a child of God, we should approach life as kings and queens and seek wisdom that will only increase our wealth in the heavenly and natural world. Why does God make his people wealthy? He obviously has no problem doing so. However, when we have made our wealth our God, then he does have a problem with that. He knows our heart and the "one thing" that keeps us from being totally sold out for him.

On Mission, On Assignment, and in the ZONE!

Andy Valadez
e-mail: Andy@TeamMarketingDynamics.com

2.7.09 Making Love, Proverbs 7

"Come, let's make love all night, spend the night in ecstatic lovemaking!"

Proverbs 7:19

Ah! Got your attention. Proverbs 7 warns of the seductress. She's sweet, young, smells good, and beautiful. One indescretion shouldn't matter, many say. But, that makes all of the difference.

My young daughter asked me, "Daddy what is lust?" We were watching the movie "Fireproof." A father was explaining God's standards compared to ours to his son, who was battling for his marriage. My daughter was geniunely curious about the question.

We've made no subject off limits with our young curious daughters; however, we don't give them too many details, only what is appropriate for their age. I told my daughter that "lust is looking at another who is not your wife or husband in way that you 'want them' or does not honor God." Lust is the same as adultery by God's standards.

If God's standards are so high, do we just blow them off? Or do we seek to understand his decrees and commands, so that we might live forever.


"A Recording from Hell" on Tangle (formerly GodTube)

Proverbs 7:27 - "She runs a halfway house to hell, fits you out with a shroud and a coffin."

After hearing the 19 second from hell from this video, I have to admit that I am and was concerned about my family, loved ones, and my friends. If this place is real (which I believe it is), I surely don't want anyone to be there, but sadly there will be many there who wished they had made a decision to follow Christ. Compared to eternity in hell, obedience on earth to God is a far better a price to pay.

On Mission, On Assignment, and in the ZONE!

Andy Valadez
e-mail: Andy@TeamMarketingDynamics.com

2.6.09 Two-Faced, Proverbs 6

"Riffraff and rascals talk out of both sides of their mouths."

Proverbs 6:12
It has been said that we have three personalities presentations. There is the person we think thin we are, the person others think we are, and then the way we really are. Integrity is getting the three to agree and represent the real person behind the trio. Knowing this, brings the above verse into clearer vision. How do we control our tendency to "double talk" or be "double minded?" We must pledge our allegiance daily to God and look for those instances in our lives when we have obviously played both sides.


"Soldiers Under God's Command" by Stryper

Proverbs 6:16-19 - "Here are six things God hates, and one more that he loathes with a passion: eyes that are arrogant, a tongue that lies, hands that murder the innocent, a heart that hatches evil plots, feet that race down a wicked track, a mouth that lies under oath, a troublemaker in the family."

Did I read that right "God hates?" The wicked find no "quarter" (a military term, meaning surrender is not offered during battle). After reading this, one must ask why he hates these things. Wisdom comes from understanding his ways and less of our own.

On Mission, On Assignment, and in the ZONE!

Andy Valadez
e-mail: Andy@TeamMarketingDynamics.com

2.5.09 Lovely as a Rose, Proverbs 5

"Lovely as an angel, beautiful as a rose—don't ever quit taking delight in her body."

Proverbs 5:19


I have a picture on my desk of my wife when she was two months old. The picture serves as my reminder, that I am to care for her all of her days. The picture makes me smile and reminds me of my own daughters when they were the same age. She looks so delicate, innocent, and unaware of the hard life ahead (I chuckle). I feel very fortunate to have her in my home and together we have grown older and still appreciate each other through our years of battles, victories and celebrations, and sad moments in our lives. These days, they have been very fragrant and life has been so blessed as we watch our young children grow and explore their world. We hope they see the love and appreciation we have for each other, although it isn't all roses. There have been thorns along the way.

I wear my deceased father's wedding ring on my index finger as a reminder of the sanctity of marriage. My parents divorced when I was 22 (I am 43) and my mother gave me my father's ring a couple of years ago, several years after his death in 2003. I was shocked to know that my mother still had his ring.


"Addicted to Pornography"

Proverbs 5:20 - "Proverbs Why would you trade enduring intimacies for cheap thrills with a whore? for dalliance with a promiscuous stranger?"

I recently read a book "Every Man's Battle" by Stephen Arteburn and it challenges men to control our eyes and our heart. He referenced this constant battle that men must fight. We are visually stimulated and our tendancy is to give in. Dwelling on impropriety is a distraction. I am not going to get preachy here, but a sign of spiritual maturity is being able to dart one's eyes away from sexually oriented thoughts and visual stimulus. However, there are really few prohibitions when those thoughts are about your own wife and you and she are free to love. That is the beauty of marriage, it is relatively guilt-free.

On Mission, On Assignment, and in the ZONE!

Andy Valadez
e-mail: Andy@TeamMarketingDynamics.com

2.4.09 The List, Proverbs

"Above all and before all, do this: Get Wisdom! Write this at the top of your list: Get Understanding!"

Proverbs 4:7

If you are like me, then you have a "To Do List" a mile long, but what is your top priority? The number one thing that you must do every day. Successful people are 100% efficient. They complete only one very important task everyday. Everything else is gravy or a head start on other initiatives.

My one thing before all others is to pray and read the bible. I must admit that I am not 100% efficient in that dedication. Sometimes I am praying in the chase and on the run. Do you pray over your day? If not, try it.


"The Bucket List" Music Video

Proverbs 4:13 - "Hold tight to good advice; don't relax your grip. Guard it well—your life is at stake!"

Are you a risk taker? I am. Public opinion is important. When it comes to public opinion I am really only worried that I am not doing something unethical or damaging to my personal life testimony. All else is open game.

I will initiate action and only worry about those who "get it" or understand or are curious about where God is taking the idea and my life's purpose. How does God want to use your ideas, influence, and resources today? Will you risk it on behalf of someone else? Will you step in and be the missing piece to the puzzle? No risk , no reward (Know Risk, Know Reward). Jump out of the plane and wait a little while to pull the rip chord. No guts, no glory. Geronimo!

On Mission, On Assignment, and in the ZONE!

Andy Valadez
e-mail: Andy@TeamMarketingDynamics.com

2.3.09 Live Well, Proverbs 3

"Don't lose your grip on Love and Loyalty. Tie them around your neck; carve their initials on your heart. Earn a reputation for living well in God's eyes and the eyes of the people."

Proverbs 3:3-4

How do you keep your psyche bullet proof in an era of skeptics, doubters, and self-seekers? The "eyes" of people do matter to us, whether we admit it or not. How we live resonates with others around. Our love and loyalty vibrates through and fortifies our relationships with God first, then people. You can hold your head up high, when you first please God. Try to it the other way around and you will be disappointed in yourself and in others. Jesus said we should "forgive." That word is on my daily planner, to remember to "forgive" people who let me down. I realize that I may have let people down myself and can only hope that they would forgive me.


"Resurrection" by Amena Brown

Proverbs 3:5 - "Trust God from the bottom of your heart; don't try to figure out everything on your own."

We sometimes only trust God with the "top" of our heart. Meaning, that we are ready to bail at the first sign of trouble. When you trust God completely, you demonstrate a willingness to weather the storms of life with an understanding that you will emerge a different person, a stronger person. God wants give us the power to overcome all obstacles and that may mean a tough road that conditions our spirit. We are never wise or smart enough to figure it all out. Trust. Your best days start today.

On Mission, On Assignment, and in the ZONE!

Andy Valadez
e-mail: Andy@TeamMarketingDynamics.com

2.2.09 The Search, Proverbs 2

"That's right—if you make Insight your priority, and won't take no for an answer, Searching for it like a prospector panning for gold, like an adventurer on a treasure hunt, Believe me, before you know it Fear-of-God will be yours; you'll have come upon the Knowledge of God."

Proverbs 2:3-5
Life is a treasure hunt. We are seeking for our true calling. Unfortunately, we may get distracted along the way with fool's gold. When we make seeking God our priority, he helps us to navigate to true treasure in all areas of our life. Are you tired of digging in the wrong places? I've been there.


"Lift Your Chains You Are Free" - Casting Crowns

Proverbs 2:6-8 - "And here's why: God gives out Wisdom free, is plainspoken in Knowledge and Understanding. He's a rich mine of Common Sense for those who live well, a personal bodyguard to the candid and sincere. He keeps his eye on all who live honestly, and pays special attention to his loyally committed ones."

A blessed life is an incredible thing. There is peace, confidence, strength, joy, and laughter in the home of the wise. There is much celebration in all things great and small. Our father delights in his children and knows our greatests needs. Those things that give us hope in the future, answer the fears in our lives, and give us stability in tough tough times and exhiliration in the triumphant times.

On Mission, On Assignment, and in the ZONE!

Andy Valadez
e-mail: Andy@TeamMarketingDynamics.com

2.1.09 In the Battle, Proverbs 1

"Start with God—the first step in learning is bowing down to God; only fools thumb their noses at such wisdom and learning."

Proverbs 1:7
You may never have to fight for your faith, but you might. When you are in the battle zone (spirituall or physically), your faith means everything. There is a saying in the military "In a firefight, there are no atheists." Their is saying among Christians, "You are strongest when you are on your knees." Meaning that God is ready to accept your petitions, hear your prayers, and is ready to dispatch his power on your behalf.


"More Love, More Power" (awesome song)

Proverbs 1:24 - "Look, I'm ready to pour out my spirit on you; I'm ready to tell you all I know. As it is, I've called, but you've turned a deaf ear; I've reached out to you, but you've ignored me."

I have been guilty of ignoring God. I've gone many years not attending church, gone to church, but didn't read my bible or pray as often as I should have. In these times, as a parent and husband and servant, I find that I must hear from God daily. I must make time for him through out the day. He has to impress upon me the things I cannot give, but through him I am able to perform all tasks he requires. I don't feel alone in the battle, but prepared to face the enemy and encourage others along the way. Lock and load.

On Mission, On Assignment, and in the ZONE!

Andy Valadez
e-mail: Andy@TeamMarketingDynamics.com

1.31.09 Diamond Heart, Proverbs 31

"A good woman is hard to find, and worth far more than diamonds."

Proverbs 31:10
Every little girl wants to feel special. My little girls are no different. They are prized and valued. My youngest will remind me every now and then that she "doesn't feel special." That is my que to drop what I am doing to remind her that she is incredibly treasured.

Sadly, many young girls lose their self-worth over time due to neglect or oversight. However, many young ladies retain their worth due to the influence, guidance, and direction of the earthly parents and heavenly father.

God gives parents wisdom to raise maidens of honor. Through much prayer and dedication a "diamond heart" is born. Still others, discover or rediscover their worth on their own. Where parents are absent, the heavenly father steps in to guide their faith and dedication. My girls love the "Cinderalla" story. A fairy tale, but a dream worth dreaming.


"God the Warrior"

Proverbs 31:24 - "Her husband is greatly respected when he deliberates with the city fathers."

It is a great feeling to be ushered in to speak with great people. Today I met a man who a close friend says could very well be our next president. I have also met many other men of integrity, the mayor of our city, the brother of former President George W. Bush, top generals, and others. I give credit to my wife. I am a better man because of her and all honor that has been given me I could not claim without her dedication to me. Because of her, I can walk with the wise and excellent men and feel no shame.

On Mission, On Assignment, and in the ZONE!

Andy Valadez
e-mail: Andy@TeamMarketingDynamics.com

1.30.09 Bath Time, Proverbs 30

"Don't imagine yourself to be quite presentable when you haven't had a bath in weeks."

Proverbs 30:12

Good hygiene is great advice and good for your health. Nothing like a fresh shower or bath, hair combed, fresh breath, a dab of deoderant, a clean shave, and a splash of cologne. We are at our best when we feel our best.

Fortunately, our God will take us as we are, but we must still be mindful that if we haven't talked to him in a while, we may need to ask him to wash our sin before we enter his presence. I remember a pastor telling the congregation, that when we pray we should come to him thanking and praising him, then we should ask him to wash away our sin and forgive us of our sins, and then approach him into the throne where we lay our petitions and seek his voice. You don't want to bust into God's presence without some kind of protocol that prepares you to receive more of him. Our lives don't have to be perfect to approach him. Fortunately, our God takes all comers in repentance.


"He Made a Difference"

Proverbs 30:13 - "Don't be stuck-up and think you're better than everyone else."

I don't know many "stuck-up" people personally, but I have run into business people who are very ego driven. When we think we are better than others, we lay a trap for ourselves. When I graduated from college and got my first job, I felt like I had to adjust or create this new persona. In reality, I fought this tendency the whole way, but it would creep up. Fortunately, I realized quickly that I was the same guy and was just blessed to be in a new realm and that being cordial with people, I would discover value in each person no matter their position. In fact, I have been very surprised by the power and influence of people in "low positions" and never try to make judgments about people and their capabilities. That focus has opened more doors for my interests over and over again. It is great to meet a CEO or an influential person who is very approachable. They forgive mistakes, are gracious, welcome dialogue, and treat everyone with respect. How do you treat people?

On Mission, On Assignment, and in the ZONE!

Andy Valadez
e-mail: Andy@TeamMarketingDynamics.com