Every Species Matters to God's Heart

A little over a year ago, I broke my left arm badly enough that I spent almost six months in a cast. What I didn’t realize at the time was how much that injury would take from me. The simplest parts of life suddenly felt impossible. I couldn’t get ready in the morning, shower, drive, or even open doors on my own. If I had to carry something? Forget it. I needed help with everything—things I had taken for granted every single day. Most of all my dream of dancing on a collegiate level was crushed.

I hated feeling like a burden. I depended on my family, my friends, and even strangers just to get through the day. And in the middle of it all, I found myself asking a question I didn’t want to admit out loud:
–Where is God in this?
–Where was He in the pain?
–Where was He in my helplessness?
–Where was He when it felt like my freedom and my plans had been ripped away over one “little” broken arm?

But now, as I look back, I see something I couldn’t see then. I see how God was weaving purpose into every moment of that season.

Because of that injury, I built friendships I never would have made otherwise. I shared precious time with my brother before he left for medical school. I made memories with high school friends before stepping into a new chapter of life. And most importantly, I found a deeper connection with Christ, a closeness I never would have imagined before.

Through the cracks in my bones, God’s light came pouring in. And if His light was shining there—in my brokenness—how much more is it present in every healthy part of me? Because if God had a plan for every single creature He brought onto Noah’s ark, even the tiniest insect, then I know He has a plan for me.

Think about it: God designed fruit flies. Tiny, pesky, irritating little bugs. And yet, even they have purpose. They’re vital to decomposition and the health of our environment. Something so small, so seemingly insignificant, is still part of His greater plan. If God thought the world needed fruit flies, don’t you think He believes the world needs you too? You are never too broken, too small, or too far gone for God’s love. His purpose for you is great and full of love.

So the next time you see a pet, a squirrel, or even that one fruit fly buzzing around your kitchen, take a moment to pause and remember: If God made that with intention, how much more intentional was He in creating you?

Thessalonians 5:18 says it beautifully: “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” God’s plan for you is alive and active—even in the waiting, even in the brokenness. Trust Him. Yield to His guidance. And watch His purpose unfold.