God Provides

"Jonah went out and sat down at a place east of the city. There he made himself a shelter, sat in its shade and waited to see what would happen to the city. Then the LORD God provided a vine and made it grow up over Jonah to give shade for his head to ease his discomfort, and Jonah was very happy about the vine. But at dawn the next day God provided a worm, which chewed the vine so that it withered. When the sun rose, God provided a scorching east wind, and the sun blazed on Jonah’s head so that he grew faint. He wanted to die, and said, 'It would be better for me to die than to live.'" 
Jonah 4:5-8

The story of Jonah is really a story about God's provision. Although Jonah didn't always accept the provision with joy, God provided for him every step of the way. The provision of God didn't always look like provision to Jonah. The fish was scary, The worm that ate the vine made him uncomfortable, the scorching east wind burned him. yet all of these things were the provision of God for Jonah.
    There have been many times in my life when I did not recognize the provision of the Lord. Sometimes, I thought it was a natural thing. Other times, I though it simply happened in the normal course of life. There have been times of plenty. In those times it is easy to live in the blessing. There have been times of want. It is in those times that I have found the greatest spiritual growth. Both of these were God's provision in my life. Some brought joy, others brought pain.
    Our lives will bring change all the time. God is always moving us into greater places. Sometimes these are manifested through incredible blessings. Other times, we are humbled before God. There are good times and bad, but God is the author of both. The circumstances should never dictate our relationship with God. On the contrary, our relationship with God should dictate the circumstances. This means, the way we go through the circumstance will change because we are talking to the author directly. Thus, we submit to his provision, knowing that it is the best for us. Even though it may bring pain, his provision always leads us into greater relationship with him.
    I heard a speaker once say that his favorite scripture in the Bible is: "This too, shall pass." Yes, it is true. Whatever season of life we are in, no matter what difficulties we face, it will pass. Whether in a time of want or plenty, joy or pain, God always has something greater on the other side. If you are in a time of suffering, be encouraged that, This too, shall pass." If you are in a time rich with God's blessing, thank him for it, but always remember that God provides. Whatever he sends your way is his provision for your life. Although you may not understand, he has your best interest at heart. All this, because he loves you and his intent is always for your good. So be at peace, knowing that God provides.