Law Office of John Schmidt & Associates PLLC

11/28/2024

Check out this 5-Star review from Matthew Foley! We're so blessed to be able to help our clients. ""

11/15/2024

The billionaire businessman cited a desire to bring fairness and balance to the newspaper

Trump effect.

In a bold move that has shocked the media world, Patrick Soon-Shiong, owner of the Los Angeles Times, fires the entire editorial board and promises a fresh start with a new team.

11/07/2024

Check out this 5-Star review from Deivis Rivero Alvarez! We're so blessed to be able to help our clients. "(Translated by Google) The customer service was incredible.

(Original)
Fue increíble la atención al cliente"

11/06/2024

Check out this 5-Star review from Kelly “Kitten” Sullivan! We're so blessed to be able to help our clients. ""

10/26/2024

🚨 A New Expansion of Government Power That Should Alarm Us All 🚨

The recent update to the DoD Directive 5240.01 (Sept 27, 2024) quietly introduces something we should ALL be concerned about—expanded military authority to use lethal force against U.S. citizens under certain "emergency" conditions. Yes, you read that right. This directive allows military personnel to assist law enforcement, potentially including the use of lethal force, if an "imminent threat" is perceived.

What makes this even more concerning is that military commanders can act on their own judgment for up to 72 hours without prior approval from higher-ups like the Secretary of Defense. While legal oversight is required after the fact, it sets a dangerous precedent. It blurs the line between civilian law enforcement and military intervention, a line that the Posse Comitatus Act was meant to keep clear, ensuring that the military cannot be used to police American citizens.

We should be asking: how will these powers be used? And under what criteria will a situation be deemed an "imminent threat"? This directive, introduced under the Biden administration, comes at a time of heightened tension, with more and more people being labeled as domestic threats simply for speaking out or questioning government actions.

This isn’t about left vs. right—this is about defending our fundamental rights as citizens. Expanding the military’s role in domestic law enforcement opens the door for potential misuse, and it raises serious concerns about civil liberties, including the right to protest, privacy, and due process.

We need to stay vigilant and informed about these developments. Let’s not let this go unnoticed. 🛑

09/30/2024

💤 When Life Drains Your Energy, Let God Renew Your Strength 🌿

Some days, it feels like there’s nothing left to give. You’re running on empty, drained by the never-ending demands, worries, and responsibilities that seem to pile up. Life can be overwhelming, and it’s natural to feel worn out when you’re carrying so much. But even when you’re at your lowest, there’s hope.

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” - Matthew 11:28

It’s okay to feel tired. It’s okay to need a break. God sees you in your exhaustion and invites you to lean on Him. You don’t have to power through on your own strength—He is there to renew you, to carry you through the toughest days.

“But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” - Isaiah 40:31

When circumstances feel like they’re too much to handle, remember that you are not facing them alone. Let go of what you cannot control, and trust that God is working on your behalf. He is your strength when you have none left. Take a moment to breathe, to rest, and to let His peace wash over you.

“The Lord is my shepherd; I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, He leads me beside quiet waters, He refreshes my soul.” - Psalm 23:1-3

No matter how heavy life feels right now, know that it’s okay to pause and recharge. You are worthy of rest and renewal. God is with you, ready to lift your burdens and restore your spirit. 🌿💕

09/28/2024

🌿 "Do Not Make Another Stumble" – Walking in Love and Understanding 🌿
(Romans 14:13-23)

Hey friends, I’ve been reflecting on Romans 14:13-23, and it’s really been on my heart lately. I want to start by saying I’m not coming at this as someone who’s got it all figured out. I struggle with this just as much as anyone. But I find Paul’s words so encouraging because they remind us that we’re all on this journey together, and none of us are perfect. If you’ve ever felt unsure about how to handle differences in faith or worried about accidentally causing someone else to stumble, I hope this passage offers you some hope and guidance. 💞

1. Avoid Being a Stumbling Block
Paul starts by urging us not to pass judgment on each other, but instead "resolve never to put a stumbling block or hindrance in the way of a brother or sister." (Romans 14:13) This means that even though we might feel free to do certain things (like eating certain foods or drinking wine), we need to be careful not to unintentionally harm someone else’s faith. Our actions might be perfectly fine for us, but if they cause someone else to struggle, we might end up being a stumbling block without even realizing it. 🛑

Here's an example: If I have the freedom to drink wine and enjoy it responsibly, that's great. But if I’m around someone who feels it's wrong, or who might have a personal history with alcohol, my choice to drink might cause them distress or make them question their own faith. It’s not that the wine is inherently bad; it's about walking in love and considering how my actions could affect another person’s spiritual journey. I’ve had to learn this the hard way at times, realizing only after the fact that what I did might have made things harder for someone else.

2. Nothing is Unclean in Itself
Paul says, "I am convinced, being fully persuaded in the Lord Jesus, that nothing is unclean in itself." (Romans 14:14) This reminds us that we have freedom in Christ! However, if someone believes something is wrong, then for them, it is unclean. This is where we have to be extra careful. Just because we have the freedom to do something, we need to ask ourselves: Even if I can do this, should I if it might offend or harm my companion’s faith? If our actions distress someone else, we’re no longer walking in love. It's not about giving up our freedoms entirely; it's about using them responsibly and with a loving heart. ✝️

3. The Kingdom of God is Not About Rules
Paul emphasizes that the kingdom of God is not about food and drink, but about righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit. (Romans 14:17) This is such a freeing thought! Our faith isn’t meant to be weighed down by debates over every little practice. Instead, it's about how we love each other, pursue peace, and build each other up. 🕊 I’ve found that focusing on peace and joy makes it easier to set aside my own wants when it might be for the good of someone else.

4. Pursue Peace and Build Each Other Up
Paul encourages us to "pursue what makes for peace and for mutual upbuilding." (Romans 14:19) This means being sensitive to others' beliefs and making choices that encourage and strengthen their faith. If doing something might cause another person to struggle, then it's better to avoid that action out of love. It’s not about following a strict set of rules; it's about considering the impact of our actions. Sometimes, it's not obvious how our choices affect others, and that’s why Paul urges us to be careful. I’ve had moments when I didn’t realize I might have unintentionally caused harm until later, but each of those times was a lesson in how to love others better. 🌱

5. Hold Your Convictions, but Be Considerate
Paul reminds us to hold our convictions "as our own before God." (Romans 14:22) This means we don’t need to impose our beliefs on others, nor should we act in a way that goes against our conscience. But it’s also a gentle reminder to ask ourselves: Is it worth it? If what I’m doing might cause someone else to stumble or feel confused, maybe it’s better to set that freedom aside for their sake. This isn’t about feeling guilty over our choices; it’s about choosing to walk in love and being considerate of others' journeys. 🙏

So, How Do We Live This Out?
Be Mindful of Others: Even if we feel free in certain areas, let’s think about how our actions might affect those around us.
Ask, 'Should I?': Just because we can do something doesn’t always mean we should if it could unintentionally offend or harm someone else’s faith.
Walk in Love: Let love guide our choices, prioritizing others' spiritual well-being over our personal freedoms.
Focus on What Matters: Remember that God’s kingdom is about righteousness, peace, and joy—not debates over every little detail.
Encourage Unity: Let’s pursue peace and look for ways to build each other up in faith.
I know this isn’t always easy! I’ve definitely stumbled in this area myself, and sometimes I’ve been too focused on what I think is right without considering how it might impact others. But I’ve found so much hope in trying to walk this path of love and care for those around me. We’re all learning together, and that’s a hopeful thing! 💕

If you’d like to talk more about how we can support each other on our faith journeys and pursue peace, I encourage you to reach out to Douglas Hills Church of Christ at 📞 (502) 245-0573 or visit 🌐 douglashillschurch.org. Let's keep growing in love, understanding, and compassion, knowing that none of us have it all figured out—but we’re in this together! 🌻

09/28/2024

🌿 "Do Not Judge Another" – Embracing Differences in Faith 🌿
(Romans 14:1-12)

Hey friends! I’ve been reflecting on Romans 14 and wanted to share some encouragement. This passage is a beautiful reminder that we’re all on unique journeys of faith, and we don’t have to agree on every detail to love each other well. 💕

Paul talks about “disputable matters”—areas of faith where we might have different opinions but can still honor God. Here are some examples of what these might look like:

🍽 Dietary Choices: "Some believe in eating anything, while the weak eat only vegetables." (Romans 14:2) Some choose to avoid certain foods or drinks, while others feel free to enjoy them. And guess what? Both are okay! God welcomes us all.

Worship Styles: Whether we worship with traditional hymns or contemporary music, we are all praising the same God. Our styles might differ, but our hearts are united.

🗓 Special Days and Traditions: "One person considers one day more sacred than another; another considers every day alike." (Romans 14:5) Some love observing certain holidays or traditions, while others treat every day the same. That’s perfectly fine! We’re each doing it for the Lord.

Dress Codes: How we choose to dress—whether formally for church or casually—comes from our personal convictions. Let’s focus on our hearts and not judge based on appearances.

Paul reminds us not to pass judgment on one another over these "disputable matters." "Who are you to judge someone else's servant? To their own master, servants stand or fall." (Romans 14:4) We all belong to the Lord, and whether we eat, abstain, celebrate, or not, we’re doing it for God.

So how can we live this out?
Welcome Others: Accept one another, even when we don’t see eye to eye on every detail.
Respect Different Convictions: Understand that each person’s journey and traditions are unique.
Live for God: Your faith walk is about honoring God, not proving your way is the only way.
Show Grace: We’re all learning and growing. Let’s encourage each other along the way!
I struggle with this too! It’s easy to get caught up in thinking our way is "right." But let’s remember Paul's words in Romans 14: "Make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification." (Romans 14:19) 🕊

If you’d like to talk more about how we can embrace and encourage each other in our faith journeys, feel free to reach out to Douglas Hills Church of Christ at 📞 (502) 245-0573 or visit 🌐 douglashillschurch.org. Let’s grow together in love and understanding! 💕

09/26/2024

Co-Parenting and Emotional Support for Your Child

Be the Bigger Person for Your Child’s Sake

Parenting isn’t about “my day” or “your day.” It’s about being there for your child and supporting them emotionally. When your child has something exciting to share, be the bigger person. Pick up the phone, dial the other parent, and say, “You know what, your mom would love to hear about this. Tell her about your day, too.” Small gestures like these teach your child that their happiness matters to both parents and that they are allowed to love freely.

Children, especially when they act out, often don’t know how to express their emotions. Hitting them or responding with anger only teaches them to be fearful. Instead, when they’re upset, hug them. Hold them close until you feel their little body relax. Love them into a place where they can listen and understand. It’s in those moments that you’re not just correcting behavior; you’re building trust and teaching them how to manage their emotions healthily.

Parenting is about creating a safe space for your child to thrive, and that means showing them what it means to be calm, loving, and understanding, even when it’s hard.

09/26/2024

Your Son Will Model After You

Raising Sons: The Responsibility of Fathers

Fathers, your son is watching you. He looks up to you as his role model and will frequently model the same behaviors he sees you display. The way you handle your emotions, how you treat others, and the values you live by will shape who he becomes.

If your actions are guided by anger, aggression, or violence, you’re not just turning an angry young man loose into the world—you’re setting him up to potentially inflict pain on someone else’s daughter. Do you want your son to grow up thinking that strength is shown through intimidation or control? Or do you want him to learn that real strength comes from patience, kindness, and self-control?

The responsibility is yours to raise a young man who understands that respect, empathy, and love are the foundations of any healthy relationship. Be the man you want your son to become. Teach him that true strength lies in being calm, compassionate, and a protector of those he loves.

09/26/2024

Your Daughter Will Choose a Man Like You

Fathers, Your Influence Matters

Fathers, have you ever stopped to think about the kind of man your daughter will one day choose? She will often seek a partner who reflects the example set by you. This means your words, actions, and temperament play a vital role in shaping her expectations for future relationships.

So, ask yourself: do you want your daughter to choose a man who is loving, calm, and protective, or one who is angry and violent? Children learn from what they see. If they grow up in a home filled with kindness and respect, they will know to seek that in their own lives. But if they witness anger, fear, and harshness, they may end up believing that this is what love looks like.

Your task isn’t just to protect your daughter from the outside world; it’s also to be the example of how she deserves to be treated. Choose to be the calm and loving father who shows her that she is worthy of respect, care, and unconditional love.

09/26/2024

💖 Love Your Children More Than You Dislike Your Ex 💖

Co-parenting can be one of the hardest things to navigate, especially when there are feelings of hurt, betrayal, or anger. But here’s a gentle reminder: Your children need your love more than they need to witness the dislike between you and the other parent. Your love for them is the guiding light that can overcome even the most difficult emotions.

“Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.” - 1 Peter 4:8

It’s natural to feel frustration and resentment at times, but those emotions should never overshadow your love for your kids. They deserve the best version of you—a version that prioritizes their well-being over past pain. Speak kindly, act patiently, and show grace, even when it’s tough. In doing so, you teach them the power of love and forgiveness.

“Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.” - Ephesians 4:2

You may not be able to control how the other parent acts, but you can control your own heart. Let it be filled with love, not anger. Your children will remember the times you put them first, despite the challenges. They’ll carry that lesson of love into their own lives.

“Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old, they will not turn from it.” - Proverbs 22:6

Remember, your love for your children is bigger than any disagreement, argument, or history with the other parent. Let that love guide your words, your actions, and your heart. 💕