God, Our Provider

In this season of political turmoil, it seems particularly necessary to remind myself that God is in control.  As I anticipate coming time when a number of people will be experiencing hardships, I want to solidify my understanding that God is a provider.  That I do not need to be afraid to be generous, that all of us can pray for God's provision.

I have been thinking about Romans 5:3-5, "Even in times of trouble we have a joyful confidence, knowing that our pressures will develop in us patient endurance.  And patient endurance will refine our character, and proven character leads us back to hope.And this hope is not a disappointing fantasy, because we can now experience the endless love of God cascading into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who lives in us. (TPT)

And James 1:2-4 (TPT) "My fellow believers, when it seems as though you are facing nothing but difficulties, see it as an invaluable opportunity to experience the greatest joy that you can!  For you know that when your faith is tested it stirs up in you the power of endurance.  And then as your endurance grows even stronger, it will release perfection into every part of your being until there is nothing missing and nothing lacking.

The final piece that went into this song was the memory of a friend of mine who would teach about gratitude, saying that he had always had what he needed (though not necessarily all that he wanted) provided for him--and that he knew that, because he was still here, still breathing.

You Have Always Provided 

You have always provided

All that I need.

I know that because I am breathing

Through sorrow and joy

You have cared for us all

Through winter and summer,

Through springtime and fall

You have always been there

You surround us with care

Through hardship and even disaster

Through rich times and poor times

You hold out Your hand

Through trials our faith will grow faster.

You have always provided

All that we need.

We know that because we are breathing.

Through sorrow and joy

You have cared for us all

Through winter and summer,

Through springtime and fall.

You have always been there

You surround us with care

Through hardship and even disaster

Through rich times and poor times

You hold out Your hand.

God help us be true

And to fully trust You

And to know in our hearts

You're the Master.