“Success is not what you have; success is Who you have.”- Dr. Tony Evans
“As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good in order to bring about this present result, to preserve many people alive.”- Genesis 50:20
In Chapter 14 (“The Peace of Detours”) of Detours, Dr. Tony Evans takes special note of the order in which things occurred in Genesis 50:20. Thus, keeping this perspective in mind enables you to face life’s challenges, disappointments, pain, and confusion head on. Hence, Dr. Evans wants you to see this order: Evil. God. Good.
We see this pattern throughout Scripture. God transforms the pain and suffering of this present life when He’s brought to bear on it. Tony explains:
“That’s why God must be an integral part of your everyday existence and not just a visit here or there. God doesn’t want visitation privileges with you on the weekends. He wants to be your best friend. He wants to be your partner.”
As a result, bloom where you’re planted. Wherever you are right now, work faithfully and serve willingly. Joyfully submit and fully honor God.
Therefore, Dr. Evans exhorts, live obediently where God’s placed you. Of course, people tend to give up on God where they’re down. Consequently, Dr. Evans challenges you to change your perspective:
“The more miserable things get, the more aggressive you should go after Him. It’s easy to praise God in the sunshine, but if it’s storming in your life right now and darkness is all you see, force praise from your mouth. Run to Him in the dark. . . . And lastly, be patient.”
As Tony quips, too many people want a microwave God, but God often functions more like a Crock-Pot!
Today’s question: What Bible verses sustain confidence in Who you have? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “The worst kind of waiting there is”
