Driving around and around the parking lot at my doctor’s office, my stress level started rising as the clock inched closer to my 9:00 a.m. appointment. Every space seemed to be taken, except for one tantalizingly open spot marked “Reserved for The Pain Clinic.” Now, I wasn’t going to The Pain Clinic, but I sure was feeling some pain as I debated whether or not to park there.

At 8:58 a.m., I stopped by the open spot, staring at it as if it held the secrets of the universe. I thought, “Should I just take it? Who’s really going to know? Is there a camera? It’s technically part of the same building, right?” Naturally, the enemy chimed in, whispering, “Take it! You’re a patient too—close enough!” But my conscience was like, “Girl, don’t even try it. You know better.”

By 9:01 a.m., I was officially late. My daughter, ever the voice of reason, said, “Mom, let’s drive around one more time.” Reluctantly, I obeyed, pulling away from the tempting forbidden fruit of parking spots. And just as I rounded the corner, I saw a gentleman approaching his massive Ford F-150. He climbed in, pulled out, and left behind the roomiest parking space I’d seen in a long time. I couldn’t help but laugh as I parked, shaking my head and praising God.

At that moment, I realized I’d almost failed the test.

Reflection:

How often do we convince ourselves that cutting corners or compromising “just this once” is the only way to get what we need? Our spiritual instincts tell us no, but we panic, thinking, If not this, then what? Will God really come through in time?

This little parking lot lesson reminded me that God’s blessings don’t require us to compromise. Waiting on Him with trust and patience always pays off. As Psalm 37:34 says, “Wait for and expect the Lord and keep His way, and He will exalt you to inherit the land…” And Lamentations 3:25 reminds us, “The Lord is good to those who wait for him, to the soul who seeks him.”

Don’t fail the test, friend. God is not a “one-time wonder.” If He’s delivered you before, He’ll do it again. His resources are inexhaustible, and His timing is perfect. Trust Him in your parking lot moments—and every moment in between.

Prayer:

Lord, thank You for being faithful even when I’m impatient. Help me to trust Your timing and follow Your ways, even when it feels like I’m running late or running out of options. Teach me to wait with expectancy, knowing You are good to those who seek You. Strengthen my heart to resist compromise and lean fully on Your provision. In Jesus’ name, Amen.