“Sometimes you need some negative potential in your experience to take you further than you would go on your own.”- Dr. Tony Evans
In Chapter 16 (“The Path of Detours”) of Detours, Dr. Tony Evans observes that while everyone appears to want a blessing, few want development. Yet, for Joseph to fulfill his role as second-in-command in Egypt, God first needed to take him deeper and develop him.
Therefore, where God’s currently placed you is part of God’s purpose and plan for you. In addition, part of that purpose and plan involves perfecting the art of waiting. As a result, Dr. Evans lists three signs from God that you’re waiting well:
- God comes out of nowhere. He brings something into your life that catches you just when you were ready to throw in the towel. While God doesn’t change your situation, He lets you know He’s there.
- God gives you the strength to keep going in your situation.
- God changes you in your situation, although that situation remains the same. As Tony puts it, “He [God] doesn’t give you a second wind, but He keeps you from getting weary when you walk.”
In conclusion, as Dorothy realized at the end of The Wizard of Oz, sometimes where you currently find yourself is as good as where you’re trying to go. Dr. Evans notes the importance of this lesson. He writes:
“When you truly come to realize this — along with the value of who you are and the worth of those around you — you discover your destiny. In recognizing how your life sovereignly merges and intersects with others at God’s divinely right time — each day, every day — you not only bring Him glory, but you also bring benefit, purpose, and joy to all.”
Today’s question: What negative potential in your experience propelled you during your desert, land between time? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “Cast off one’s chains”
