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God’s provision is evident throughout my life. I can look back and see the ample ways he’s taken care of me, supplied all my needs. But he’s rarely done so in the way or the timeframe I’ve expected.

There’s often a gap between what we know to be true of God — things like he’s our provider, our shelter, our comforter — and the actual experience we’re living. Sometimes we’re stuck in between, not actually experiencing shelter, comfort or even provision. 

These valleys are an opportunity to yearn, to want, to lament — to take our frustrations, disappointments, concerns to God in total honesty, begging for his mercy, begging for his provision. 

People who struggle together often bond more intimately, deeply and quickly than people who are enjoying life’s highs. To lament to God is to bond in our suffering. 

Over a decade ago, I spent a lot of time lamenting not having friends who really understand the state of my soul or my mind. I think God withheld his provision on that particular desire for a long time for a lot of reasons – perhaps, to give me the opportunity to bond to him best. 

But when he did provide these friends, they were people who understood, and our shared suffering, bonded us intimately, deeply and quickly. They are people with whom I may lament.

God has provided — even to the point of giving of himself completely. But when we’re met with moments where he isn’t providing, we have the opportunity to grow in relationship with him through the struggle, the yearning and the lament.

Perhaps, these seasons are actually part of his provision.