We recently sat down with CWA of North Dakota Interim State Director Linda Thorson to get to know her better and find out why she chose to work with Concerned Women for America (CWA).
What CWA Core Issue is your policy passion?
Sexual Exploitation
How did you get started with CWA?
I am a CWA leader in our state because of the leadership of Beverly LaHaye and Penny Nance. These women serve their Savior by bringing the story of redemption into the public square. Like them, I want to live my life in such a way that others know I follow Jesus. I don’t have a list of successes nor do I have a long list of worldly accomplishments, but I do have the knowledge that Jesus is honored through the work of CWA and to Him I am thankful.
Tell us about a cool opportunity you’ve had to serve God through CWA.
I had the opportunity to testify before the State Senate Judiciary Committee in support of SB 2107, relating to the Uniform Act on Prevention of and Remedies for Human Trafficking. SB 2107 would help victims by penalizing predators and dangerous individuals who use the threat of force, abduction, serious harm, or physical restraint on an individual. The bill would help identify women and children who are victims of sexual predators or human trafficking and would stop providing perpetrators with opportunities to cover up and continue their crimes.
I also had the opportunity to send a testimony to the North Dakota Senators on the Judiciary Committee in opposition to SB 2279. SB 2279 would add “sexual orientation” and “gender identity” to legal or corporate nondiscrimination codes and in turn, discriminate against people with traditional views. I was pleased to stand up for First Amendment principles and tell North Dakota leadership that sexual preference should not trump the rights of free speech and freedom of religion.
Why CWA?
When I look in the world of politics or even in the church community, I am often troubled. However, I praise God for the many ways He is using CWA today to shine a light into the darkness. I am so very grateful to be a part of the ministry of CWA by meeting with others to pray and to be led into action! Together we stand firm on the promises of God, “Therefore, my dear brothers, 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.” To God be the glory!
By the way, I didn’t find myself one day a confident outspoken person ready for leadership! Instead, I heard God’s call, and I answered, “I will follow where You lead”. I would still be living my life in my prayer closet and not be active if I had waited for the skills I believe make a successful state leader. Instead today, I walk in faith preparing for the day when I may be asked, “What did you do?” It is my desire to answer, “I followed a Risen Savior and Holy God to where broken people live.”
Call to Action
Like Linda, right now you may feel unqualified to lead. But just as Linda’s story shows, if you are obedient to God’s call, He will equip you with the skills that you need when you need them. Do it today! For more information on how to lead or join a CWA State Chapter or Prayer/Action Chapter, attend events and rallies, sign petitions, and much more, visit www.ConcernedWomen.org.