Embracing God's Plans: A Conversation on Faith, Courage, and Service

In a world where stories can inspire and uplift us, the latest episode of the Fearlessly Unshackled podcast brings a conversation that resonates deeply with anyone navigating the intricate pathway of faith. Hosted by Sarah Rose, the episode features Ty Hillman, who shares his journey—one filled with unexpected turns, unwavering faith, and a profound desire to serve others. 

 Setting the Stage: Life's Unexpected Journeys
Ty's story is a testament to how God orchestrates our lives in ways we often cannot foresee. Growing up in a family involved in rodeo in Northeast Colorado, Ty transitioned to Texas for college where he met his wife, Stevie. Their journey together, marked by a shared passion for horses and a deep commitment to their faith, reflects how God's plans unfold in our lives, often leading us to step out of our comfort zones.
In 2016, they decided to dive headfirst into rodeoing. While many might view such a decision as a risky venture, for Ty and Stevie, it became a platform for their work and their relationship with God. As Ty mentions, “The way the truck came into our life... His hand was on it, and He had a purpose for all that.” 

Trusting in God’s Plans
An important theme in their conversation is the notion of trust—trusting God not only with the big decisions but also with the worry and doubts that accompany them. 
“What I realized is that when I asked myself, ‘When hasn’t it turned out alright?’ I couldn’t think of a time,” he shared, highlighting how our memories of God’s past faithfulness can empower us to trust Him in the present.

The Power of Community and Service
Ty’s faith was nurtured by a loving family and a supportive community, emphasizing the importance of being surrounded by those who bolster our spiritual journeys. As he reflected on his upbringing, he stated, “I had good parents... I’m extremely grateful for the childhood that I had because that really did set a foundation for me.”
This foundation of support laid the groundwork for a life committed to service and mentorship, a theme that runs throughout the podcast episode. Seeing his wife’s inherent goodness and capacity to serve inspired Ty to contribute what he had learned through his own experiences.
“I wanted to share that,” he mentioned about his journey into coaching and mental skills training. “If I'm able to take what I’m learning and offer it to others, then that can be a wonderful way to contribute.” 

Balancing Ambition with Spiritual Depth
The discussion also delved into the balancing act of pursuing one’s passions—from rodeoing to coaching—while ensuring those pursuits do not become idols in our lives. Ty acknowledged the fine line between ambition and idolatry, noting, “How can you do everything you want to do but hold it loosely enough that it doesn’t become an idol?”
This struggle is something many can relate to, as it requires a continual introspection about where our priorities lie. “We can train our minds... but you cannot train yourself to earn God’s love,” Ty cautioned, reminding us that a genuine relationship with God is at the heart of our faith journey.

A Call to Action
The conversation culminated in a deep realization: while our journeys may differ, we are all called to serve, to love, and to grow in faith. Ty’s emphasis on sharing our experiences and serving others is a beautiful reminder of how we can amplify God’s work in our lives and in the lives of those around us.
For every listener, this episode serves as an invitation to reflect on your journey. Are you allowing God to lead your life in ways that may seem unconventional? Are you nurturing a personal relationship with Him beyond a performance-based approach? 

 Closing Thoughts
As Ty prayed at the end of their conversation, we too can invite God to guide us: “Lord, thank you so much for the opportunity, and I pray for direction over everybody here... that we just continue to seek You.”
This powerful conversation is a reminder that amidst life's challenges and uncertainties, our faith can guide us, mold us, and lead us to a life of purpose and meaning. 

Whether you’re a rodeo enthusiast, a coach, or someone just trying to navigate life, take a moment to reflect on where God may be leading you next. Your story, just like Ty's, can profoundly impact someone else's journey.
For those inspired by this discussion, be sure to like and subscribe to the Fearlessly Unshackled podcast. Join us in celebrating faith, courage, and the unwavering goodness of God in our lives. Until next time, may you be blessed in your journey!