“I can’t believe this. They’re driving 40 miles an hour.” I shook my head and whacked the palm of my hand against the wheel.
Emily looked up from her phone. “What’s the speed limit?”
“Fifty-five, and I can’t pass because we’re approaching a hill.” I gauged the oncoming traffic and tightened my grip on the wheel. “Come on gray car, can’t you pick up the pace?”
We came to a stop sign and I flicked my turn signal. Then I stared at the back of the gray car. “Please-don’t-turn-right, please-don’t-turn-right.” Their turn signal blinked. I threw my hands in the air.
As they made a leisurely right turn I glanced at my dashboard clock. We’re going to be late. My shoulders tightened. “As soon as we get around this curve, I am passing that car.” Then I spotted something that grabbed my attention: a black and white car with lights on top.
“Oh.”
Emily raised an eyebrow and gave me a look she probably learned from me.
“Okay, okay.” I exhaled. “Thank you gray car. I think you just saved me a ticket.”
As we continued on our way, I couldn’t help but wonder if God had a message for me in this. Because honestly, I’ve been feeling a little frustrated and impatient in another area of my life: my writing.
For a while it seemed like my writing was really going places. I’d won a contest. I was getting lots of stories published. But lately, things have been moving more slowly. I’ve struggled with writer’s block. I’ve had rejections. My wheels are spinning, but I’m going nowhere. And it seems like God is saying, “Slow down; not so fast.”
But He knows what’s around the corner for me and I can trust in His plan. I’m not saying it’s going to be easy. I am impatient. I want things my way, in my timing. Can you relate? But I’ll take that little gray car as a reminder. Sometimes I just need to sit back, relax and remember who’s actually in the driver’s seat.
“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11
Be still and know that I am God is such a good reminder at these times. I remember being at a stop light and the car ahead of me did not go on the green, and yes, I did honk. No response, and wouldn’t you know, I couldn’t pass on either side of that car. Well, fortunately she did go on the next green light; and she was too old to text.
Yep, but oh how that “being still” part can sometimes be a challenge!
🙂 Thanks for stopping by Deanna!
Been there, done that Sheri! I have gotten to a place where I really am going to be content with whatever God decides for me. If He would rather me serve in another way, and I get that message, that will be fine. If this is an endeavor I am to pursue, I will do that as faithfully as I can. I know your walk (or ride) will always be blessed.
Thanks Hally. You have no idea how much I needed to hear that today! Take care.