A Do-Over: Nothing Wasted

## Introduction

Today, I invite you to journey with me through a message that speaks to the very essence of our lives: the idea of a do-over, a chance to start fresh, and the promise that nothing is wasted in the eyes of God. To kick things off, let’s consider a film that many of you may know well: "Groundhog Day," starring Bill Murray. In this iconic movie, Murray's character finds himself reliving the same day repeatedly, providing a comedic yet profound exploration of second chances. 

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This theme resonates deeply within our Christian faith, reminding us that God continually grants us opportunities for renewal and grace, regardless of our past mistakes. As we reflect on our lives, we recognize that sometimes we are handed a do-over, much like the characters in the film.

### God Offers a Do-Over!

We’ve all experienced moments in our lives where we wished we could hit the reset button. Life offers us situations that leave us with a longing for a do-over. Perhaps it was a hurtful word spoken in anger, a conversation that went awry, or a regretful decision that still haunts us. 

Consider the words from Psalm 145:8-9 (NLT): “The Lord is merciful and compassionate, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love. The Lord is good to everyone. He showers compassion on all his creation.” It is comforting to know that God's character is rooted in mercy and compassion, always ready to offer us a fresh start.

This theme of redemption is not only prominent in our lives but is also woven throughout the pages of Scripture. Take Moses, for example. He was called to lead the Israelites out of Egypt but made a grave mistake by taking matters into his own hands, resulting in the death of an Egyptian. Despite his failures, God approached Moses in the burning bush and offered him a do-over (Exodus 3).

Similarly, we see this in the life of King David. After his sin with Bathsheba, he faced severe consequences, including the tragic loss of their first child. Yet, even in his brokenness, God extended grace to David, allowing him to start anew. In 2 Samuel 12:24 (NLT), it states, “Then David comforted Bathsheba, and he went to her and slept with her. She became pregnant and gave birth to a son, and they named him Solomon. The Lord loved the child.” Through Solomon, God’s plan continued, demonstrating that His grace can turn our failures into something beautiful.

The concept of a do-over extends further. Think of Jacob and Esau, Joseph and his brothers, or Peter, who denied Jesus three times yet was restored. Each of these figures illustrates that God’s grace allows us to learn from our failures and gives us the opportunity to fail forward.

No matter how far we think we’ve strayed, God invites us to bring our brokenness to Him, assuring us that He can create something beautiful from our mistakes. 

### The Importance of Grace

As we contemplate the significance of grace, I recall a personal anecdote from my dating days. I once thought it would be a sweet gesture to leave a chocolate candy bar in my girlfriend Cindi’s car, accompanied by a note. However, the heat melted the chocolate, making a mess instead of a memorable moment. This situation reminded me that not all good intentions yield good results, and sometimes we wish we could redo those moments.

David Jeremiah eloquently puts it, “Regarding our sins and souls, Jesus paid it all. We come to him with a load of guilt and confess all our regrets. We tell Him about that moment of foolishness that causes shame. As we confess it, He forgives it.” This assurance of forgiveness is powerful, yet it’s essential to understand that grace is not a license to sin. 

I can personally attest to the consequences of my actions. As a police chaplain in Wheaton, Illinois, I experienced the consequences of distracted driving firsthand. I sped through a school zone, fully aware of the potential repercussions. Thankfully, one of the officers, a sergeant who had installed me as a chaplain, let me off with a warning. He said, “Carder, slow it down next time.” In that moment, I wished for a do-over, but I learned a valuable lesson about responsibility.

David Jeremiah continues, “As we lay it before Him, He washes it away with the blood of Calvary. What God has forgiven should no longer have dominion over our minds.” This is a powerful reminder that through Jesus, we are offered a spiritual do-over.

### The Abundance of God’s Grace

It is important to recognize that God does not merely want to pardon our sins; He desires to provide us with an abundance of life. It can be frustrating when we encounter individuals who underestimate the significance of grace. We sometimes hear people say, “Don’t worry about it,” without understanding the depth of the cost of our sins.

A personal experience comes to mind: I once faced the challenge of being fired seven times while working at Ponderosa. Each time, I learned valuable lessons that contributed to my growth. This experience aligns with Stuart Briscoe's words: “There is unspeakable joy for the person who knows release from guilt and the relief of forgiveness.” 

### Nothing Is Ever Wasted

The good news is that with God, nothing is ever wasted. Our lives are filled with moments where we may feel we have squandered time, resources, or relationships, yet God assures us that every experience, even our failures, can be redeemed. 

In John 6:12 (NIV), we find Jesus instructing His disciples after the miraculous feeding of the 5,000: “When they had all had enough to eat, he said to his disciples, 'Gather the pieces that are left over. Let nothing be wasted.'” This moment exemplifies the importance of stewardship and the belief that every situation can serve a divine purpose.

I once participated in a street evangelism initiative called Revive Indiana, where we shared the gospel in downtown Marion. During one encounter, a man expressed his belief that his sins were too great for God to forgive. He felt that his life had produced nothing good. In that moment, we were able to share the transformative message of hope—that with God, nothing is ever wasted.

### The Art of Kintsugi

In the context of restoration, I’d like to highlight the Japanese art of Kintsugi, which involves repairing broken pottery with gold. This art form symbolizes the beauty found in brokenness. Like Kintsugi, God takes our shattered lives and makes them more beautiful through healing and grace.

In Romans 8:28 (NLT), we are reminded, “And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.” When we acknowledge our missteps and offer them to God, we allow Him to work in our lives.

### Embracing God’s Plan

As we consider the implications of our spiritual do-overs, it becomes evident that God desires to make all things new in our lives. A retired minister friend of mine sends daily devotionals that inspire reflection. One particularly fitting message reminds us that “Winter seems so stubborn, unwilling to release its frigid grasp. You are weary of the weather and the lifeless scene outside your window. Remember that God is still at work even in the wintertime.”

This sentiment resonates deeply with the promise found in Revelation 21:5: “I am making all things new.” 

### Conclusion

As we reflect on the grace of God and His willingness to offer us do-overs, let us remember that it is not the absence of fault or sin that defines us but rather the price paid for our sins. Jesus paid it all. Every opportunity for renewal is a testament to His unending love and mercy.

What regrets do you carry today? What do you wish you could redo? I encourage you to take those burdens to God. Allow His grace to wash over you and renew your spirit. In His hands, nothing is wasted, and every part of our story can be repurposed for His glory.

God’s grace is sufficient! He will restore us and provide spiritual abundance. As we allow Him to gather the pieces of our lives, we uncover the powerful gift of His plan for us. 

We may not be free from troubles, but we can find profound reward in knowing that we need not live in spiritual complacency. 

In closing, I am reminded of the words of Matthew Henry: “When God intends great mercy for His people, the first thing He does is to set them a-praying.” 

Let us resolve to give grace to ourselves and others, to learn from our mistakes, and to embrace the do-overs that God lovingly offers. Amen.