Nothing is Wasted
A simple message from Susan read, "Nothing is wasted."
Those three words met my turmoil, quenching the anger, disappointment, and sense of defeat that had consumed me. They spoke to the core of my pain, making sense of a seemingly inexplicable loss.
At that time, I had just endured an intense spiritual battle. Standing alongside allies, we faced an unexpected and crushing setback. The communal sentiment was defeat, and personally, I bore the weight of this loss heavily.
For those meeting me for the first time – Hello! I'm Angela. In my daily life, I am a Christian, wife, realtor, imaginative dreamer, reformer, and a recent addition to the world of politics. This newfound role is paramount, especially in these times when apathy reigns and many Christians feel politics isn't their realm. Yet history tells us differently. Many disciples were politically active, and our founding fathers were instrumental in the political arena. If they had chosen the path of political correctness over duty, America might not exist today. My parents embodied this courage, standing firm even in the face of unpopular opinions.
Today, I find myself where countless women of faith have stood: declaring God's truth, championing the innocent, and continuously battling against the forces that aim to rob our youth of their identity.
Anticipating a significant move for religious freedom in our schools, we were thrust into the limelight, facing scrutiny, name-calling, and attacks on our faith. And when the unexpected blow landed, my first thought was, "How, God? Why wasn't our stand successful?"
Days went by, and I wrestled with God, thinking this should have ended differently. But then Susan, whose name poetically means "Lily in the Valley," graced me with her wisdom: "Angela, nothing is wasted with the Lord."
And just like that:
Anger was quelled.
Sorrow faded.
The weight of defeat lifted.
My heart attuned to God.
During a moment of quiet reflection, I felt a divine assurance: "I'm working." God wasn’t pushing me to keep fighting in my own will. but stepping a side for Him to fight in His. He was reminding me of His omnipotence. Suddenly, scriptures like Psalms 46:10, "Be still and know that I am God," came back as a glaring reminder.
My fighter spirit is relentless. I'm not one to back down, even in the face of fear. But Susan's words offered a fresh perspective. I was shackled by the misconception that the temporary setback was my failing, that I had disappointed God.
In reality, the battle belongs to God. Our role? Simple obedience. Victory is assured when we adhere to His command, even if it's not instantaneous. Sometimes, perceived defeats are merely God orchestrating a larger plan, addressing multiple concerns simultaneously. Who am I to interfere with His grand design?
So, for anyone trudging through the valleys of despair, feeling the weight of their efforts being in vain, remember Susan's profound words: "Nothing is wasted with the Lord." It’s our cue to step back, recognizing that God will use every ounce of our dedication for a triumphant purpose.
Let’s be ever grateful for the Susans of the world, those lilies in the valley, who timely remind us of God's unwavering promises.
“ Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.”