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Nothing Is Wasted: A True Story of Hope, Forgiveness, and Finding Purpose in Pain
Nothing Is Wasted is a story for anyone who has encountered trauma, tragedy, or a major transition and wondered, how do I begin to move forward through what I've experienced?
Where is God in the midst of your greatest pain?
Davey Blackburn wrestled with that age-old question in the aftermath of the murder of his beloved wife, Amanda, and their unborn daughter. As the high-profile case slowly meandered its way toward legal justice, Davey embarked on the wrenching task of finding strength to restore his shattered soul and the broken pieces of his life.
At turns horrific yet hope-filled, heartbreaking yet faith-affirming, Nothing Is Wasted is Blackburn’s disarmingly raw account not only of the shocking tragedy that forever changed his life, but of his late wife’s inspiring trust in the God who welcomed her into His loving arms.
The trauma he endured could have made anyone try to escape from the agony, yet by grace Blackburn chose to face the pain head-on and cling to his Savior to guide him through the storm.
As the riveting story of one man’s journey through the valley of suffering unfolds, listeners will join Blackburn in
the surprising ways that hope and joy can arise in the midst of any trial or sorrow. the tension in accepting that “Why?” may never become clear this side of eternity. how a good Father is faithful to draw near to the brokenhearted. how forgiveness is the key to finding freedom in even the most unimaginable of offenses. where to discover purpose in the deepest pain. how a breathtaking moment at the altar symbolized love’s triumph over death. . . . and much more. Most of us will never endure the depth of heartache that Blackburn has walked through, and yet his message is for us that even in the greatest losses and most complex tragedies, God is inviting us on a path towards redemption and healing, hope and faith, where we can begin to see that nothing is wasted.
PLEASE When you purchase this title, the accompanying PDF will be available in your Audible Library along with the audio.
Where is God in the midst of your greatest pain?
Davey Blackburn wrestled with that age-old question in the aftermath of the murder of his beloved wife, Amanda, and their unborn daughter. As the high-profile case slowly meandered its way toward legal justice, Davey embarked on the wrenching task of finding strength to restore his shattered soul and the broken pieces of his life.
At turns horrific yet hope-filled, heartbreaking yet faith-affirming, Nothing Is Wasted is Blackburn’s disarmingly raw account not only of the shocking tragedy that forever changed his life, but of his late wife’s inspiring trust in the God who welcomed her into His loving arms.
The trauma he endured could have made anyone try to escape from the agony, yet by grace Blackburn chose to face the pain head-on and cling to his Savior to guide him through the storm.
As the riveting story of one man’s journey through the valley of suffering unfolds, listeners will join Blackburn in
the surprising ways that hope and joy can arise in the midst of any trial or sorrow. the tension in accepting that “Why?” may never become clear this side of eternity. how a good Father is faithful to draw near to the brokenhearted. how forgiveness is the key to finding freedom in even the most unimaginable of offenses. where to discover purpose in the deepest pain. how a breathtaking moment at the altar symbolized love’s triumph over death. . . . and much more. Most of us will never endure the depth of heartache that Blackburn has walked through, and yet his message is for us that even in the greatest losses and most complex tragedies, God is inviting us on a path towards redemption and healing, hope and faith, where we can begin to see that nothing is wasted.
PLEASE When you purchase this title, the accompanying PDF will be available in your Audible Library along with the audio.
Audible Audio
Published July 30, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 129 reviews
October 29, 2024
Wow. This book is heavy, heartbreaking, unimaginable, yet at the same time impactful, powerful, and beautiful.
I remember hearing about this tragedy in November of 2015, when Amanda was brutally murdered in her home by some burglars. I was shocked and saddened by this tragedy, and felt a small connection to her as I was a young ministry wife myself at the time like she was. Amanda and her husband were planting a church in the Indianapolis area.
Written by her husband, this book is his story through the trauma, pain, questions and journey of faith to find that with God -nothing is wasted.❤️
I appreciated his raw honesty of working through all the intense emotions and feelings of hatred, prejudice, anger, forgiveness, peace, and contentment, etc.
I loved how Amanda wrote many journals in her short life, and he shares several excerpts from them. Her desire to be used of God is inspiring.💜
I listened to the audio, and it was powerful as the author reads it, his voice breaking at times. Several times I was 😭😭 as I listened. (Listen FREE on Hoopla!)
Although she was killed in 2015, the trial was not complete with sentencing until 2022, seven years later!😦 He shares the words he spoke in court that day as he faced his wife’s killers. Again, powerful!
This book has had a great impact on me reminding me what’s truly important in life, challenging me on my willingness to let God do anything in my life, and encouraging me to face the challenges in my life head on - “run towards the roar.”
⚠️ Death, deep grief, great loss.
Quotes I want to remember:
📖 “If your goal in this world is to make life easy and comfortable for yourself, joy and happiness will always elude you.
This world is not comfortable or easy.”
📖 “Instead of trying to make life easy, our goal should be this: Live well in a difficult world.”
📖 “What the enemy means for evil, God uses for good.”
📖 “This world is much bigger than your world. History is much bigger than your lifetime. Don’t get so bogged down in your circumstances that you fail to miss the larger story of what God is doing in history.”
📖 “Trust me, Give me a little time, and I will turn this into something beautiful.” -God
📖 “This was the path of healing even if I was limping along.”
November 7, 2024
What an amazing story! Heartbreaking, convicting, moving. This was a story that makes you take a step back and think about what’s really important in life.
Hearing about the trial and what was said during that day, was also moving. The forgiveness that occurred and the conviction felt by the one man who was part of the home invasion. God had a bigger plan for this whole situation. While it was hard, God used the evil and the hard to help heal many hearts.
God can take hard situations and turn them into something amazing and beautiful if we allow Him. Don’t get angry or bitter. Take a step back and let God take control of your life.
Hearing about the trial and what was said during that day, was also moving. The forgiveness that occurred and the conviction felt by the one man who was part of the home invasion. God had a bigger plan for this whole situation. While it was hard, God used the evil and the hard to help heal many hearts.
God can take hard situations and turn them into something amazing and beautiful if we allow Him. Don’t get angry or bitter. Take a step back and let God take control of your life.
July 21, 2024
Beautiful book and story of God showing up in the midst of tragedy. I thought Davey did a good job showing us his pain and how he honestly wrestled with the aftermath of his wife’s murder.
I love how he used the words of other people in his life to guide him (and the reader) and also how he showed us Amanda’s incredible heart for Christ through her journal entries.
It was amazing to see how he leaned on his support community all the way through (and how they showed up for him and Weston.)
Reading what he said to the perpetrator at the end of the trial brought me to tears. Incredible book with so much to take away.
I love how he used the words of other people in his life to guide him (and the reader) and also how he showed us Amanda’s incredible heart for Christ through her journal entries.
It was amazing to see how he leaned on his support community all the way through (and how they showed up for him and Weston.)
Reading what he said to the perpetrator at the end of the trial brought me to tears. Incredible book with so much to take away.
August 25, 2024
Absolutely heartbreaking & incredibly powerful. Only God can weave tragedy & redemption together & allow Him to be the center of grief & healing.
February 3, 2025
Heartbreaking story, lots of redemption surrounding it. Also very cheesy at times.
September 27, 2024
Davey spoke at my friend’s church in DE and she was so moved, she bought me the book. Nothing is wasted with Jesus in your life!!! Just an amazing story.
August 27, 2024
This is an AMAZING book & testimony! The way Davey Blackburn talks about his story of an egregious act of evil to waking through pain to God restoring his story is just so powerful! Amanda’s life, & the testimony of her Husband & family has led thousands to Jesus. This book gives a glimpse into that & it will melt your heart and make you take a look at how God can use your story & everything in your life- the good & the bad- & turn it for good.
January 14, 2025
My reviews are generally just notes to myself. I read so many books, that after a year or so, I can’t remember many of them, without a few notes.
Actually a 3.5. I would have given it a 4 if the center of the book was chopped by at least 50%.
Positive points - I had followed this crime story online and on podcasts the first couple years, and wanted to hear Davey’s side of the story. There are definite lessons I can learn about forgiveness, love and peace. When he was talking about the 23rd Psalm, it really spoke to me. I actually didn’t know that they weren’t still blaming Davey.
I enjoyed hearing & learning more about Amanda.
The Negative - The entire 40%+ in the middle of the book is a Reeaalllly long sermon. It look me 2 days to get through that part. I’m a firm believer that we don’t always see God’s plan with our puny human brains. Christians can tend to come across as thinking they have it all figured out. Or that they have to twist it that way. Sometimes it can sound a wee bit arrogant- this did.
SPOILERS
The worst part for me was the last part of the book. Davey was leading us through the trial, from his view point. We are hearing about Amanda’s murderers, and suddenly he starts talking about how he is So attracted to this woman at his gym. He describes basically “stalking” her until, eventually she becomes his second wife. This happens Years before the trial, just months after Amanda was murdered. So why put this here? Cringe. I literally, physically, was cringing. This book was about his first wife & unborn child being brutally murdered. He talks so much about Amanda turning herself inside out to serve others, including him. Then he feels the need to describe how he turns himself inside out, pursuing a new woman. It may just be me, but it just felt wrong.
Probably would not read again.
Actually a 3.5. I would have given it a 4 if the center of the book was chopped by at least 50%.
Positive points - I had followed this crime story online and on podcasts the first couple years, and wanted to hear Davey’s side of the story. There are definite lessons I can learn about forgiveness, love and peace. When he was talking about the 23rd Psalm, it really spoke to me. I actually didn’t know that they weren’t still blaming Davey.
I enjoyed hearing & learning more about Amanda.
The Negative - The entire 40%+ in the middle of the book is a Reeaalllly long sermon. It look me 2 days to get through that part. I’m a firm believer that we don’t always see God’s plan with our puny human brains. Christians can tend to come across as thinking they have it all figured out. Or that they have to twist it that way. Sometimes it can sound a wee bit arrogant- this did.
SPOILERS
The worst part for me was the last part of the book. Davey was leading us through the trial, from his view point. We are hearing about Amanda’s murderers, and suddenly he starts talking about how he is So attracted to this woman at his gym. He describes basically “stalking” her until, eventually she becomes his second wife. This happens Years before the trial, just months after Amanda was murdered. So why put this here? Cringe. I literally, physically, was cringing. This book was about his first wife & unborn child being brutally murdered. He talks so much about Amanda turning herself inside out to serve others, including him. Then he feels the need to describe how he turns himself inside out, pursuing a new woman. It may just be me, but it just felt wrong.
Probably would not read again.
January 26, 2025
Wow, gripping, tragic, and yet inspirational true story, and I love the audiobook as it is read by the author. Beautifully written to point to finding purpose in pain, and we can only do that through Christ.
This is a story you won’t be able to put down. Written by a young pastor, and I loved his enthusiasm as he describes how he sees God working in his life. I love his honesty as he describes all of fluctuating emotions while processing such grief and pain.
The wife who passes in this story graduated from the same college I went to just one year before I got there, so I felt a little closer to the story, as if Amanda could have been a friend. ♥️
A few favorite quotes:
🌟 The best weapon we have against worry, is worship.
🌟 If your goal is to make everything easy and comfortable, joy and happiness will always elude you. This world is not comfy or easy- those who believe that it is are only fooling themselves.
🌟 Instead of trying to make life easy, Our goal should be this live well in a difficult world.
🌟Chase happiness and it will flee from you, chase holiness, and true happiness will cling to you. Not a circumstantial happiness, but a joy that sees you through any circumstance.
🌟Give me a little time, and I will turn this into something beautiful. - God
🌟 (escaping) Numbing pain is also numbing its antithesis, joy. Run to the roar.
🌟 The level of hurt you experience is directly correlated with the level of influence God wants to give you.
🌟 The name of God changes in Psalm 23 after the valley 💞💞💞 it gets personal. (I never noticed this before!)
🌟 If we let him, God won’t waste our pain. Turn pain into purpose. when you let Him take the lead in your healing, nothing is wasted. 💞
This is a story you won’t be able to put down. Written by a young pastor, and I loved his enthusiasm as he describes how he sees God working in his life. I love his honesty as he describes all of fluctuating emotions while processing such grief and pain.
The wife who passes in this story graduated from the same college I went to just one year before I got there, so I felt a little closer to the story, as if Amanda could have been a friend. ♥️
A few favorite quotes:
🌟 The best weapon we have against worry, is worship.
🌟 If your goal is to make everything easy and comfortable, joy and happiness will always elude you. This world is not comfy or easy- those who believe that it is are only fooling themselves.
🌟 Instead of trying to make life easy, Our goal should be this live well in a difficult world.
🌟Chase happiness and it will flee from you, chase holiness, and true happiness will cling to you. Not a circumstantial happiness, but a joy that sees you through any circumstance.
🌟Give me a little time, and I will turn this into something beautiful. - God
🌟 (escaping) Numbing pain is also numbing its antithesis, joy. Run to the roar.
🌟 The level of hurt you experience is directly correlated with the level of influence God wants to give you.
🌟 The name of God changes in Psalm 23 after the valley 💞💞💞 it gets personal. (I never noticed this before!)
🌟 If we let him, God won’t waste our pain. Turn pain into purpose. when you let Him take the lead in your healing, nothing is wasted. 💞
July 15, 2025
Even though most will never relate to Davey’s level of pain experienced in this life, the topic of pain and grief is so universal. I was in tears at multiple moments. You can’t help but think of your own grief as he’s processing his.
The book was surprisingly not all sad though. There was actually plenty of funny & beautiful moments sprinkled throughout! I like how he captured those nuances of real life. There are several moments many may consider preachy, but he’s a pastor, so that is what he’s good at. And though it’s easy to write some of it off as cliché, you can’t deny that he’s sharing it all from personal experience. Not placating truisms, but pouring out his heart. I could honestly feel his genuine and powerful encouragement throughout because he was so vulnerable about his real thoughts that were fresh in his hardest moments. So when he did preach, it was a shoulder-to-shoulder level rather than looking down on us.
Thank you, Davey, for not burying your pain and hiding. I would completely understand if you did. But you chose the hard route of listening to The Holy Spirit as He’s led you each step of the way! Your book is a healing salve to anyone that will listen & your ministry & voice is powerful! Thanks for allowing your deep pain to be used for unimaginable good, only because it’s in God’s hands!
The book was surprisingly not all sad though. There was actually plenty of funny & beautiful moments sprinkled throughout! I like how he captured those nuances of real life. There are several moments many may consider preachy, but he’s a pastor, so that is what he’s good at. And though it’s easy to write some of it off as cliché, you can’t deny that he’s sharing it all from personal experience. Not placating truisms, but pouring out his heart. I could honestly feel his genuine and powerful encouragement throughout because he was so vulnerable about his real thoughts that were fresh in his hardest moments. So when he did preach, it was a shoulder-to-shoulder level rather than looking down on us.
Thank you, Davey, for not burying your pain and hiding. I would completely understand if you did. But you chose the hard route of listening to The Holy Spirit as He’s led you each step of the way! Your book is a healing salve to anyone that will listen & your ministry & voice is powerful! Thanks for allowing your deep pain to be used for unimaginable good, only because it’s in God’s hands!
October 5, 2024
Powerful. Captivating. Convicting. Redeeming.
Yes, this is a story about Davey and the heartbreaking and senseless murder of his wife. But even more, it’s a beautifully vulnerable reflection of the way God saw him through the pain and has created beauty out of ashes. From start to finish, this book is filled with such great reminders of who God is and how He’s working in all our lives for our good and His glory.
Yes, this is a story about Davey and the heartbreaking and senseless murder of his wife. But even more, it’s a beautifully vulnerable reflection of the way God saw him through the pain and has created beauty out of ashes. From start to finish, this book is filled with such great reminders of who God is and how He’s working in all our lives for our good and His glory.
December 15, 2024
This book was very good. It’s a beautiful & personal account of walking through trauma with Jesus. It challenged me deeply, revealed some places where I need to loosen my grip & release to God, and encouraged me by Davey’s testimony of God as a good Shepherd even in the midst of deep brokenness.
I read this book simultaneously with Gentle & Lowly, and it was a really unique combo to read about God’s deep & loving heart while also reading about a horrible tragedy. He is the same in it all, as hard as it is to wrap our minds around.
I read this book simultaneously with Gentle & Lowly, and it was a really unique combo to read about God’s deep & loving heart while also reading about a horrible tragedy. He is the same in it all, as hard as it is to wrap our minds around.
January 28, 2025
I’ve been staring at my phone trying to find the words. In 2024 one of my favorite things to say was “He wastes nothing” bc I just kept seeing it over and over throughout the year in the lives around me. And so thank you big brother for recommending this book. It was a heartbreakingly beautiful story. I cried every time I listened. My kids listened in at times and they got swept up in Gods goodness and in the beauty of choosing to let God use your pain.
September 23, 2024
The tragic story of Davey and Amanda Blackburn and Amanda’s murder that shocked the nation.
Davey Blackburn tells the story and the aftermath in this book handling all the issues of grief that come up when someone close to you dies, this event is made worse because his wife is murdered while pregnant. It’s a heart-breaking story, but Davey infuses it with hope.
Due to the public nature of the murder and Davey’s being a pastor, Davey is thrown into the public eye and becomes the face of grief for many people. Indeed, he eventually concentrates solely on ministry to grieving people.
Davey Blackburn tells the story and the aftermath in this book handling all the issues of grief that come up when someone close to you dies, this event is made worse because his wife is murdered while pregnant. It’s a heart-breaking story, but Davey infuses it with hope.
Due to the public nature of the murder and Davey’s being a pastor, Davey is thrown into the public eye and becomes the face of grief for many people. Indeed, he eventually concentrates solely on ministry to grieving people.
October 23, 2024
There are not enough stars to give this book. It is a true story and is very powerful and very inspirational. It is amazing to read about the journey that God walked Davey Blackburn through. Two thumbs up!!
September 20, 2024
Such a hard and sad book. I learned a lot about processing pain and hurt.
September 27, 2024
Really moving, deep, and honest book - highly recommend for Christians acquainted with suffering.
April 24, 2025
4.5 ⭐️ It’s so hard to imagine going through what Davey experienced. It was beautiful to read about his journey in processing through grief, and even the back story of him and his wife.
December 11, 2025
Davey Blackburn’s memoir powerfully recounts the 2015 murder of his pregnant wife, Amanda, and his raw journey through grief, forgiveness, and renewed faith. As a pastor, he shares an uplifting message that God redeems even profound suffering, enhanced by touching excerpts from Amanda’s journals. It’s sincere and encouraging for those seeking Christian perspectives on loss.
However, some personal revelations feel off-putting: Blackburn admits to past attraction to a high school girl, which comes across as creepy and unnecessary. He also describes “slinking around” his church lobby to meet another woman (his future second wife), adding an awkward, obsessive vibe.
A moving read with cringeworthy moments—solid for faith-based healing stories. 3.5 stars.
However, some personal revelations feel off-putting: Blackburn admits to past attraction to a high school girl, which comes across as creepy and unnecessary. He also describes “slinking around” his church lobby to meet another woman (his future second wife), adding an awkward, obsessive vibe.
A moving read with cringeworthy moments—solid for faith-based healing stories. 3.5 stars.
October 29, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I listened on audiobook and loved hearing Davey narrate his own story. My favorite part was when he was on a run and recounting the way he saw Psalms 23 being played out over his grief journey and what God have for him ahead.
I listened on audiobook and loved hearing Davey narrate his own story. My favorite part was when he was on a run and recounting the way he saw Psalms 23 being played out over his grief journey and what God have for him ahead.
May 13, 2025
Entering a memoir on unimaginable suffering isn’t fun but it is worth it. Blackburn records his life-altering tragedy, immense grief, and the various elements of his processing as to why God would allow this to happen.
This book is an important reminder to walk humbly, remembering that everything is a gift from God, that He is sovereign and good, and that everyone carries their own pain.
This book is an important reminder to walk humbly, remembering that everything is a gift from God, that He is sovereign and good, and that everyone carries their own pain.
November 25, 2024
Heartbreaking and powerful.
A triumph of God working in mysterious ways. A self help that reads like a fiction thriller.
A triumph of God working in mysterious ways. A self help that reads like a fiction thriller.
December 19, 2023
This book was written by Davey who executed the perfect murder of his wife by letting the criminal element know very subtly that his wife Amanada kept expensive jewelry and lots of cash on hand, along with the info when she would be home alone. Mr. Blackburn is a narcisst of the highest order and a sociopath. He is a fantasist who imagines himself as a woke Billy Graham, living in aan alternate reality that has also convinced his now deluded wife.
August 6, 2024
Nothing is Wasted. The title alone causes us to wrestle with deep emotions and questions surrounding suffering and pain in this world.
Pain is one of the greatest teachers.
We wish it were not so, but when tragedy or pain comes in our own lives, and often times when we reflect back, we can’t help but grapple with that truth.
When we are faced with the reality of living in a broken world and clinging to the hope of a good God, we can’t forget that his time here on earth was encompassed by suffering, and that through his coming, suffering, and dying, he brought us life.
He says, “In this world you will have trouble, but take heart, I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33) In our pain the Lord has the ability to show us his presence in rich ways if we allow him, and his strengths are perfected in our weaknesses.
It’s not often that you get to walk alongside someone’s grief journey that you don’t personally know, but Davey gifts us with that.
His story is a real story of pain, tragedy, loss, forgiveness, and hope. He honors his late wife Amanda incredibly well, and reminds us of the rich meaning and impacts of a life lived well.
How he chooses to vulnerably share, gives every reader not only an inside view on grieving, wrestling with God, and pressing into the hard of pain, but also gives us hope as we come face to face with forgiveness in an unimaginable story of loss, and brings all the glory to God in the process.
In these pages you will find hope for whatever season you are in, and you will see that God really is good.
This book pushes back against fear because it is not a question of “if” pain will come, but when, and Nothing is Wasted is such a gift providing the truth of our Great God in the midst the deepest suffering.
Thank you Amanda for living your life fully and bringing ultimate glory to God.
Thank you Davey for carrying your story so purposefully and bringing ultimate glory to God.
Pain is one of the greatest teachers.
We wish it were not so, but when tragedy or pain comes in our own lives, and often times when we reflect back, we can’t help but grapple with that truth.
When we are faced with the reality of living in a broken world and clinging to the hope of a good God, we can’t forget that his time here on earth was encompassed by suffering, and that through his coming, suffering, and dying, he brought us life.
He says, “In this world you will have trouble, but take heart, I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33) In our pain the Lord has the ability to show us his presence in rich ways if we allow him, and his strengths are perfected in our weaknesses.
It’s not often that you get to walk alongside someone’s grief journey that you don’t personally know, but Davey gifts us with that.
His story is a real story of pain, tragedy, loss, forgiveness, and hope. He honors his late wife Amanda incredibly well, and reminds us of the rich meaning and impacts of a life lived well.
How he chooses to vulnerably share, gives every reader not only an inside view on grieving, wrestling with God, and pressing into the hard of pain, but also gives us hope as we come face to face with forgiveness in an unimaginable story of loss, and brings all the glory to God in the process.
In these pages you will find hope for whatever season you are in, and you will see that God really is good.
This book pushes back against fear because it is not a question of “if” pain will come, but when, and Nothing is Wasted is such a gift providing the truth of our Great God in the midst the deepest suffering.
Thank you Amanda for living your life fully and bringing ultimate glory to God.
Thank you Davey for carrying your story so purposefully and bringing ultimate glory to God.
July 30, 2024
I knew some of Davey & Amanda's backstory, prior to reading Nothing is Wasted: A True Story of Hope, Forgiveness, and Finding Purpose in Pain. At least I thought I did.... I knew the media's version but after reading this book, I now know and believe that where pain and grief exist - hope, grace and forgiveness are possible, following a tragedy of this magnitude.
Having recently experienced immense grief in my own life, I wasn't sure how I'd process Davey's words, his experience, his testimony because I was still struggling. Reading how he actively chose his faith to be his lifeline and his restoration, in a way that I believe can only come when one's heart is broken beyond repair and then slowly mended by Jesus, it reminded me that I have a choice about how I use my own grief - we all do. This almost sounded impossible and somewhat of a cliche but once you hear how prayer, scripture, wise council, among other things, ushered him in to his healing journey, you begin to see how it is possible to again have hope, to love again and to pay forward that healing to others. God is clearly doing that today, through Nothing Is Wasted ministries.
So many things I took away from this book -- I'll never read or hear Psalm 23 the same. To already have it committed to memory but then have this passage broken down, in the way Davey does, has given me a perspective I never would have had otherwise. I was reminded that we can't pour from an empty cup - so I'll choose to fill my cup with His word, believing His promises which will, in turn, allow me to bless and refresh others, when their cup is running low or on empty.
I believe this book is for anyone who has ever suffered a significant loss. It's also for someone who is close to someone who has lost someone that was irreplaceable and you'll need to be the "steady" in their storm. This wisdom and perspective is for anyone who provides wise counsel to others who have survived the loss of someone they didn't think they could live without. In short - this book is for everyone because, at some point, we'll all lose someone and not know how to navigate the arduous task of grief.
Writing this book, given the sensitive and raw nature of this story, takes courage right out of the gate. Amanda is honored so well by Davey sharing his/their testimony which, in turn, allows others to better navigate their own grief/healing journey. I'll never be the same, for the better, having read this book.
Having recently experienced immense grief in my own life, I wasn't sure how I'd process Davey's words, his experience, his testimony because I was still struggling. Reading how he actively chose his faith to be his lifeline and his restoration, in a way that I believe can only come when one's heart is broken beyond repair and then slowly mended by Jesus, it reminded me that I have a choice about how I use my own grief - we all do. This almost sounded impossible and somewhat of a cliche but once you hear how prayer, scripture, wise council, among other things, ushered him in to his healing journey, you begin to see how it is possible to again have hope, to love again and to pay forward that healing to others. God is clearly doing that today, through Nothing Is Wasted ministries.
So many things I took away from this book -- I'll never read or hear Psalm 23 the same. To already have it committed to memory but then have this passage broken down, in the way Davey does, has given me a perspective I never would have had otherwise. I was reminded that we can't pour from an empty cup - so I'll choose to fill my cup with His word, believing His promises which will, in turn, allow me to bless and refresh others, when their cup is running low or on empty.
I believe this book is for anyone who has ever suffered a significant loss. It's also for someone who is close to someone who has lost someone that was irreplaceable and you'll need to be the "steady" in their storm. This wisdom and perspective is for anyone who provides wise counsel to others who have survived the loss of someone they didn't think they could live without. In short - this book is for everyone because, at some point, we'll all lose someone and not know how to navigate the arduous task of grief.
Writing this book, given the sensitive and raw nature of this story, takes courage right out of the gate. Amanda is honored so well by Davey sharing his/their testimony which, in turn, allows others to better navigate their own grief/healing journey. I'll never be the same, for the better, having read this book.
October 11, 2024
Nothing is Wasted by Davey Blackburn is a powerful testimony of God’s unrelenting love and His ability to redeem even the darkest moments of our lives. This book is a raw and honest exploration of pain, suffering, and ultimately, the healing and hope that only Jesus can provide.
Davey Blackburn shares his personal journey of unimaginable loss—the tragic murder of his wife, Amanda—and the deep grief that followed. His vulnerability in sharing his struggles with anger, doubt, and despair will resonate with anyone who has ever questioned God’s plan in the midst of tragedy. But what sets this book apart is the unwavering faith that Blackburn clings to, even when nothing makes sense.
Throughout Nothing is Wasted, Blackburn reminds us that while we may not always understand the purpose of our pain, God is still in control. He weaves in scripture and personal reflections that encourage readers to look beyond their circumstances and trust in God’s redemptive power. This book beautifully illustrates how God can take our brokenness and transform it into something beautiful for His glory.
This book will speak to those who are walking through their own valleys, offering a message of hope and restoration. Blackburn doesn’t sugarcoat the reality of suffering, but he provides a biblical perspective that points to a Savior who knows our pain and walks with us through it.
Nothing is Wasted is not just a book for those in the midst of grief; it’s for anyone who needs to be reminded that God is always working, even when we can’t see it. This is a must-read for believers who want to grow in their faith, learn to trust God more deeply, and experience the beauty of His healing power.
A five star read and a true story of forgiveness.
Davey Blackburn shares his personal journey of unimaginable loss—the tragic murder of his wife, Amanda—and the deep grief that followed. His vulnerability in sharing his struggles with anger, doubt, and despair will resonate with anyone who has ever questioned God’s plan in the midst of tragedy. But what sets this book apart is the unwavering faith that Blackburn clings to, even when nothing makes sense.
Throughout Nothing is Wasted, Blackburn reminds us that while we may not always understand the purpose of our pain, God is still in control. He weaves in scripture and personal reflections that encourage readers to look beyond their circumstances and trust in God’s redemptive power. This book beautifully illustrates how God can take our brokenness and transform it into something beautiful for His glory.
This book will speak to those who are walking through their own valleys, offering a message of hope and restoration. Blackburn doesn’t sugarcoat the reality of suffering, but he provides a biblical perspective that points to a Savior who knows our pain and walks with us through it.
Nothing is Wasted is not just a book for those in the midst of grief; it’s for anyone who needs to be reminded that God is always working, even when we can’t see it. This is a must-read for believers who want to grow in their faith, learn to trust God more deeply, and experience the beauty of His healing power.
A five star read and a true story of forgiveness.
July 19, 2024
Davey experienced a horrible tragedy in his life which left him reeling. Living in the aftermath, he had many life choices to make. The first and most important choice he made was to look to Jesus for help, comfort, and direction.
In this book he writes very openly and honestly about his pain and loss, but also about his step-by-step journey from pain to purpose. He shares with his readers what God has taught him through this very difficult season. He communicates correct biblical theology on suffering and pain. He also provides hope, by pointing to scripture, sharing answers to prayer, and revealing examples of where God "showed up" in his life and did amazing things that only God can do.
We don’t get to choose if we’re going to walk through pain, just how we walk through it. Jesus walked through suffering and was raised to new life. By His Spirit, we too can walk through suffering with confidence. What the enemy meant for evil, God uses for good. God doesn’t waste pain, and He invites us to partner with Him in the repurposing of our pain.
I recommend this book for every adult, because everyone has either gone through a difficult season of life, or is currently going through a difficult season, or will have a difficult season in the future. We need help to navigate these unexpected, heart-wrenching circumstances when they happen to us.
Redemption is a running theme throughout the book, as Davey reveals God's plan of redemption for all mankind along side examples of how God redeemed the painful things in his own life. If we seek God in our pain and suffering and let Him comfort us, teach us and guide us, we too will find that nothing is wasted.
In this book he writes very openly and honestly about his pain and loss, but also about his step-by-step journey from pain to purpose. He shares with his readers what God has taught him through this very difficult season. He communicates correct biblical theology on suffering and pain. He also provides hope, by pointing to scripture, sharing answers to prayer, and revealing examples of where God "showed up" in his life and did amazing things that only God can do.
We don’t get to choose if we’re going to walk through pain, just how we walk through it. Jesus walked through suffering and was raised to new life. By His Spirit, we too can walk through suffering with confidence. What the enemy meant for evil, God uses for good. God doesn’t waste pain, and He invites us to partner with Him in the repurposing of our pain.
I recommend this book for every adult, because everyone has either gone through a difficult season of life, or is currently going through a difficult season, or will have a difficult season in the future. We need help to navigate these unexpected, heart-wrenching circumstances when they happen to us.
Redemption is a running theme throughout the book, as Davey reveals God's plan of redemption for all mankind along side examples of how God redeemed the painful things in his own life. If we seek God in our pain and suffering and let Him comfort us, teach us and guide us, we too will find that nothing is wasted.
January 2, 2025
This story is riveting however occasionally the scriptural tie ins just feel very forced or canned and excessive almost like a little mini-lecture a la Mr. Rogers where you can predict exactly what is about to be said. The whole book does not read that way but perhaps more of the middle chapters. Maybe a different editor could have trimmed back when the tie ins got to be laid on too thick.
Additionally I know this opinion will not be well received but I found the description of him eyeing his second/current wife in the gym to be extremely cringeworthy in a book about the murder of his first wife. Perhaps that could have been saved for a second book or excluded altogether. It's hard to mourn your first, violently murdered wife, who I was recently introduced to at the beginning of the book, and a hundred pages later be excited that you can't help but notice this new beautiful woman at the gym. This reader had whiplash. I couldn't swap from mourning this sad, broken world with images of your bloody, bludgeoned wife to new crush butterflies that fast. I wonder if this is only a female perspective but alas I ended the book with mixed feelings about the journey I just traveled. It's nice when a story wraps up with closure and the court case could have been a good stopping point. I don't think "new hot wife" was the cherry on top that this saga should have ended on.
Additionally I know this opinion will not be well received but I found the description of him eyeing his second/current wife in the gym to be extremely cringeworthy in a book about the murder of his first wife. Perhaps that could have been saved for a second book or excluded altogether. It's hard to mourn your first, violently murdered wife, who I was recently introduced to at the beginning of the book, and a hundred pages later be excited that you can't help but notice this new beautiful woman at the gym. This reader had whiplash. I couldn't swap from mourning this sad, broken world with images of your bloody, bludgeoned wife to new crush butterflies that fast. I wonder if this is only a female perspective but alas I ended the book with mixed feelings about the journey I just traveled. It's nice when a story wraps up with closure and the court case could have been a good stopping point. I don't think "new hot wife" was the cherry on top that this saga should have ended on.
January 21, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I heard about it on a Dave Ramsey podcast. It’s about the horrific murder of a pastor’s wife and his search through his faith for healing and meaning. It was well-written and kept me engrossed in his story. There were many times I had tears streaming down my face; from the deep loss, the family’s deep faith and the depth of their grace and forgiveness.
This is a deeply religious book with lots of scripture references and spiritual conversations. I grew up going to church and was not turned off by this. While I do not practice any religion now, I do maintain a faith in something bigger than the here and now.
The only part I struggled with was the idea intimated in parts of this book that Amanda’s death was part of some grand plan. I do not believe that God orchestrates evil to happen to people to further a cause. However, I do believe that we can find our way out of tragedy with a strong faith and support system.
I admire the faith that is demonstrated by many individuals in this book. It was clear that both Davey and Amanda grew up in this type faith-based household and felt chosen to continue this journey through church service.
Whether you are devout or not, I think there’s a lot that can be learned from his journey.
This is a deeply religious book with lots of scripture references and spiritual conversations. I grew up going to church and was not turned off by this. While I do not practice any religion now, I do maintain a faith in something bigger than the here and now.
The only part I struggled with was the idea intimated in parts of this book that Amanda’s death was part of some grand plan. I do not believe that God orchestrates evil to happen to people to further a cause. However, I do believe that we can find our way out of tragedy with a strong faith and support system.
I admire the faith that is demonstrated by many individuals in this book. It was clear that both Davey and Amanda grew up in this type faith-based household and felt chosen to continue this journey through church service.
Whether you are devout or not, I think there’s a lot that can be learned from his journey.
July 2, 2025
This is probably the best book on grief I have ever read. I didn’t expect that. Davey’s book was recommended by a blogger I follow and the wait time was long so I listened on Everand instead. I had never heard Amanda’s story until this book. Oh the heaviness. I can not imagine going through the horrific things Amanda’s family has dealt with. I so appreciated Davey detailing his personal dealings with guilt, what ifs, missing a person deeply, feeling like God got something wrong, feelings of failure, extreme deep sadness, etc. Davey went through it all and still it took seven long years before he saw a conviction for her murderers. He wrestled with God and came out with a stronger faith. Thank you Davey for sharing yours and Amanda’s story.
Second best book on grief would be I Still Believe by Jeremy Camp.
Listened with Everand. Narrated mostly by Davey except
Amanda’s diary excerpts were read by her sister. I loved this choice. Nothing s*xual or swearing, but a very heavy topic. The first chapters are the most intense. Davey leaves out certain details of his wife’s case but you can google them.
I’m using a gift subscription for Everand. I no longer recommend them.
Second best book on grief would be I Still Believe by Jeremy Camp.
Listened with Everand. Narrated mostly by Davey except
Amanda’s diary excerpts were read by her sister. I loved this choice. Nothing s*xual or swearing, but a very heavy topic. The first chapters are the most intense. Davey leaves out certain details of his wife’s case but you can google them.
I’m using a gift subscription for Everand. I no longer recommend them.
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