sorry

But I confess my sins; I am deeply sorry for what I have done.

- Psalm 38:18 (NLT)

 

None of us are perfect—at some point, we’ve all done things we deeply regret. But how do you truly apologize when you’ve broken someone’s heart? Do you go out of your way to be kind, offer small gifts, or try to make amends in other ways? Most importantly, do you repeat the same mistake after you’ve apologized? Many of us do, and that’s what makes it so difficult for some people to understand the depth of God’s forgiveness and what it truly means to repent.

The verse I’m reflecting on is part of a larger psalm that conveys deep anguish and suffering caused by sin, emphasizing the importance of confession and recognizing our wrongdoings as the first steps toward repentance and seeking God’s forgiveness. Confession isn’t just about admitting our iniquities or being willing to acknowledge our faults—it’s also about feeling genuine sorrow for our actions and experiencing true remorse. This heartfelt confession becomes a prelude to seeking God’s mercy.

While confession is a personal act, it also sets an example for our relationships within the body of Christ. It encourages us to support one another through accountability and shared confession, which ultimately leads to repentance and forgiveness. I’ll admit, I often struggle to acknowledge when I’m wrong, but with Jesus’ help, I can bring my sins to the cross and leave them there.

 

#dailybreadbykitty

Daily Inspiration from the Bible

happy hearts

A glad heart is good medicine, but a broken spirit dries up the bones.

- Proverbs 17:22 (NLV)

 

This year has been particularly challenging for me. There have been moments that have truly brought me down, and at times, it has felt almost impossible to stay positive when everything around me seemed to be falling apart. I’ve spent countless hours in tears, trying to process something truly difficult, and many more hours in prayer, asking God “why?”—even though I don’t always receive a clear answer.

The struggle became so overwhelming that I stopped writing for a while, and honestly, I think things felt even heavier during that time. However, I never stopped listening to music. Music has always been a source of comfort for me; I find that I can relate to so many lyrics. It’s as if music gives a voice to my emotions. It’s amazing how a particular song will come on—just when I need it most—whether on the radio or any other platform. For example, “Hard Fought Hallelujah” by Brandon Lake and Jelly Roll has been especially meaningful to me lately.

Yeah, I don't always feel it
Yeah, but that's when I need it the most
So, I'ma keep on singing
'Til my soul catches up with my song

There's times when my hands go up freely
And times that it costs, oh-oh
There's days when a praise comes out easy
Days when it takes all the strength I got

I'll bring my hard-fought, heartfelt
Been-through-hell hallelujah (ooh, ooh)
And I'll bring my storm-tossed, torn-sail
Story-to-tell hallelujah, oh
'Cause God, You've been patient
God, You've been gracious
Faithful, whatever I'm feeling or facing
So I'll bring my hard-fought, heartfelt, it-is-well hallelujah, whoa-oh
Hallelujah (ooh, ooh), hallelujah

I've wrestled with the darkness
But I'm tryin' to reach for the light
Yeah, the struggle keeps me honest
And it breaks down the walls of my pride

'Cause faith isn't proven like gold
'Til it's been through the fire, eh-eh
My head, heart, and hands are feeling heavy
But that's when I lift them just a little higher

I'll bring my hard-fought, heartfelt
Been-through-hell hallelujah (ooh, ooh)
I'll bring my storm-tossed, torn-sail
Story-to-tell hallelujah, whoa-oh
God, You've been patient
God, You've been gracious
Faithful, whatever I'm feeling or facing
I'll bring my hard-fought, heartfelt, it-is-well hallelujah, oh
Hallelujah, hallelujah (ah, ah, ah, ah, ah)

I’ve learned that if I can find a way to smile through my pain, rather than dwell on the heartache, it helps me feel better. And on the days when smiling isn’t enough, I can always turn to music for comfort. I also really liked the Good New Translation : Being cheerful keeps you healthy. It is slow death to be gloomy all the time.  I don’t want to be gloomy all the time.

 

#dailybreadbykitty

Daily Inspiration from the Bible

that’s smart!

If you do not have wisdom, ask God for it. He is always ready to give it to you and will never say you are wrong for asking.

- James 1:5 (NLV)

 

We all have questions from time to time—who doesn’t? Sometimes we have the answers, sometimes others do, and sometimes we have to search for them, often turning to Google. When I was growing up (and I’m about to date myself here), if I asked a question, I was usually told to “look it up.” That meant heading to the encyclopedia if we had one, or making a trip to the library. Kids today have it so much easier with “the Googles,” but they still need to be cautious—after all, not everything on the internet is true (shocking, I know!).

Wisdom can come from many places, but the best and truest wisdom comes from God. When there’s something on your mind you just can’t figure out, remember you can always turn to God for answers. The wisdom we receive from our Heavenly Father is far more reliable than anything we’ll ever find online.

 

#dailybreadbykitty

Daily Inspiration from the Bible

what did you say

Those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep a tight rein on their tongues deceive themselves, and their religion is worthless.

- James 1:26 (NIV)

 

Have you ever opened your mouth and instantly regretted the words that came out—words that were harsh, sarcastic, or even mean-spirited? If you’ve never experienced that, you might not need to keep reading. But for the rest of us, it’s something worth reflecting on.

I know many people who avoid church because their past experiences have left them disappointed, churches filled with individuals who act like Christians on Sunday mornings but live quite differently the rest of the week. Lately, I’ve noticed more and more posts on social media saying things like, “Treating people right is better than posting Bible verses every day that you don’t even practice.” It really makes you think.

If we claim to follow a faith, but our actions contradict the teachings we profess, then what good is that claim? Genuine faith isn’t about talking at others or putting on a show; it’s about caring for those who need us, living with integrity, and letting our love be evident in our actions.

True religion is not about empty words—it’s about giving, serving, and allowing God’s word to truly change us. Let’s be intentional about listening, allowing His truth to soak in, and learning to control our tongues.

 

#dailybreadbykitty

Daily Inspiration from the Bible

rest

Rest in God alone, my soul, for my hope comes from Him.

- Psalm 62:5 (CSB)

 

Today, I’m continuing my theme of finding rest. Saturday mornings used to be my favorite time of the week. I would often wake before anyone else, make a cup of coffee, and enjoy the quiet—usually with a cat or two on my lap. These days, that quiet moment means bringing my coffee back to bed, curling up next to my husband, and simply being present. It’s a peaceful time for me, a moment when both my heart and my mind can find rest.

I struggle with anxiety—it’s a very real disorder that touches my life in so many ways, often making it hard to enjoy life’s simple pleasures. Even though it’s invisible to others, it can feel overwhelming. But in nurturing my relationship with God, I’ve found true peace. I’m so grateful for the love and support of my wonderful husband. Even if he doesn’t always understand exactly what I’m experiencing, he does everything he can to protect and comfort me. That, my friends, is love.

Everyone experiences moments of fear, anxiety, and unrest. My encouragement to you is to find your peace in God. Pray for understanding and compassion for those in your life who may be suffering in ways you can’t see. God is good—all the time. And when you seek Him, you’ll discover it is well with your soul.

 

#dailybreadbykitty

Daily Inspiration from the Bible

peace and quiet

My soul is quiet and waits for God alone. He is the One Who saves me.

- Psalm 62:1 (NLV)

 

The year 2025 has certainly brought its share of challenges, but one thing I’ve learned for sure is that being “unplugged” is truly good for my soul. I used to keep my phone with me at all times, constantly checking it and replying to work emails and requests—long after my workday should have ended. I worried that if someone needed me, I wouldn’t be available.

Then, I took a vacation where I had no cell service. It was glorious. I rediscovered some valuable lessons I had forgotten. Now, I begin each day with a few quiet minutes of prayer and reflection, inviting God into my heart and asking Him to work through me. I ask for His peace and for His will to be done. When we have God’s peace, we truly find rest for our souls.

 

#dailybreadbykitty

Daily Inspiration from the Bible

trouble

Trouble is all around me, but you keep me alive. You reach out your hand to put a stop to the anger of my enemies. With your powerful right hand you save me.

-Psalm 138:7 (NIRV)

 

Recently, I’ve faced difficulty with a specific person in my life—a situation that sometimes leaves me feeling stuck and even physically unwell. (Let me clarify that the specific person is not my husband or my immediate family). This individual has created challenges in many areas, making it feel as if I’m constantly under attack. Externally, it’s like having an adversary determined to bring me down, with fresh difficulties surfacing almost daily. Internally, it stirs up struggles with sin, doubt, and fear.

Yet even in the midst of these challenges, God has the power to restore life, strength, and hope. Whether He’s preserving our physical well-being, strengthening our spirits, or renewing our faith and resolve, He is always at work. Even when we can’t see it, God intervenes to restrain the anger and hostility of those who oppose us when we turn our hearts to Him.

We must stand firm in our faith and trust in God’s ability to protect and deliver us in times of adversity. When we are surrounded by trouble, God is present—to revive us, to hold back our enemies, and ultimately to save. He is gracious, merciful, loving, and kind. He provides everything we need: water when we thirst, food when we hunger, and protection as we rest.

God gives life, and He is life. Never doubt for a moment that He is real, that He loves you, and that you are held by Him every minute of every day.

 

#dailybreadbykitty

Daily Inspiration from the Bible

safety

Trust in Him at all times, you people. Tell Him all your troubles. God is our place of safety.

- Psalm 62:8 (NIRV)

 

It’s a holiday weekend! The Fourth of July has become one of my favorite times of year—it’s a chance to gather with family and friends, celebrate, and simply enjoy each other’s company without the pressure of exchanging gifts. But for some, this holiday can also bring challenges. Unfortunately, it’s a time when some people overindulge and make unsafe choices—getting behind the wheel or taking to the water after drinking, putting lives at risk.

In many states, fireworks begin early in the afternoon and continue late into the night. While fireworks can be beautiful and fun for many, for others, the noise can trigger difficult memories or flashbacks from painful times. Our pets, too, often struggle with the loud sounds—did you know animal shelters are often full after this holiday because so many pets become frightened and run away?

So, how does all of this connect to today’s Bible verse? It reminds us that we must hold on to consistent and unwavering faith in God, no matter the circumstances. God invites us to be transparent and honest with Him—to share our deepest thoughts, fears, and emotions without holding back. He is our safe haven, offering protection and security in a world that can sometimes feel overwhelming.

This holiday, I pray for the safety of my friends and loved ones, and I ask that we all show respect and kindness to those who may struggle with the noise and activity. Please remember: don’t mix alcohol with fireworks, driving, or boating.

Wishing you a happy and safe Fourth of July—and may you trust God as your safe place.

 

#dailybreadbykitty

Daily Inspiration from the Bible

plans work out

The Lord will work out His plans for my life— for Your faithful love, O Lord, endures forever. Don’t abandon me, for You made me.

- Psalm 138:8 (NLT)

 

We can have confidence in God’s plan for us, no matter how chaotic life may seem—God truly has a plan! Today’s verse reminds us of His enduring love and unwavering faithfulness to complete the good work He has begun in each of us. It emphasizes that God’s purpose for our lives will be fulfilled, and His love will never fail.

Nothing about our lives is random. Each of us is part of God’s divine design, and His intentional plan includes everyone. God’s steadfast love is a core part of His character—He is both our Creator and Sustainer. He promises to continue His work in our lives, never leaving us unfinished.

Trust that God has a purpose for you, and that His love will carry you through every season, all the way to completion.

 

#dailybreadbykitty

Daily Inspiration from the Bible

worth it in the end

Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him.

- James 1:12 (NKJV)

 

So many trials! There are days when I feel like I’m under fire from every direction—days when I just want to crawl into a hole and shut out the world. But I know I can’t do that, and neither should you. Even when it feels like the challenges and controversies will never end, we have to remind ourselves that there’s a reward for those who stay the course and persevere.

Life can turn upside down in an instant, leaving us feeling like we’re missing important pieces of ourselves. But through it all, the way we live should reflect God’s presence—no matter what trials we’re facing. People notice how we react, both in times of tragedy and in moments of joy. When they see us, they see a glimpse of God at work.

When we face adversity, we don’t need to be afraid. God promises a crown for those who remain faithful. Each day, I strive to live in a way that reflects Him, hoping that others can see His light through me. I hope you do the same.

 

#dailybreadbykitty

Daily Inspiration from the Bible

 

choices

A fool thinks he needs no advice, but a wise man listens to others.

- Proverbs 12:15 (TLB)

 

We make choices every day, often without even realizing it—whether it’s as small as choosing grape or strawberry jelly for our toast, or as significant as deciding to change jobs. Sometimes, these choices leave us second-guessing ourselves. Did I make the right decision? How will this affect my family, my work, my life?

When it comes to decision-making, I often look to the Bible for guidance. There are many translations, but the Good News Translation of Proverbs 12:15 really struck me:

“Stupid people always think they are right. Wise people listen to advice.”

That stings a bit. It’s a reminder that while we all need advice from time to time, we also need to be discerning about who we turn to for counsel. Not every piece of advice will be right, and we won’t always like what we hear.

Today, I want to share a few verses from the NIV translation that speak to the importance of wisdom and seeking good counsel:

“Where there is strife, there is pride, but wisdom is found in those who take advice.” – Proverbs 13:10

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.” – Proverbs 1:7

“Do not be misled: ‘Bad company corrupts good character.’” – 1 Corinthians 15:33

“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” – James 1:5

We should all seek wise counsel. Sometimes, though, even the people we trust most may not have our best interests at heart.

In the end, my prayer is that God’s will is done in every situation.

 

#dailybreadbykitty

Daily Inspiration from the Bible

 

craziness

Cast your burden on the Lord, And He shall sustain you; He shall never permit the righteous to be moved.

- Psalm 55:22 (NKJV)

 

In six and a half days, (July 2^nd) we will be halfway through the year 2025, and what a crazy year it has already been. I told someone the other day that I have already had enough of this year, and I am sure that I am not alone in that sentiment. Often I have to ask “how on earth do I deal with this?”.  Along that line, I really appreciate the ability to google all my questions. I don't always get the exact answer I seek, but I get some form of guidance. For instance, when I googled “cast your troubles on the Lord,” I found six verses. Six! Everything from "don’t worry" to "cast your burdens," "cast your anxiety," and "fear not!" I have all those things: worry, burdens, anxiety (boy, do I have anxiety!), and fear. And I am instructed to let it all go, like casting a fishing line into a lake. There is a huge challenge in letting go of the fear and anxiety, it’s tough, for sure. But God loves us so much that He wants us to share our troubles, sorrows, burdens, and anxieties with Him. The best part? He will make them go away—maybe not in the timeframe we desire, but they will go away. He will sustain us, perhaps not in the way we anticipated, but we will be sustained. He will give us rest, maybe not the kind we want, but the kind He knows we need. He will help us because He cares for us. Why look elsewhere? Cast all your cares on Him.

Feel free to look up the other five “cast your troubles” verses: Isaiah 41:13, Matthew 6:25, Matthew 11:28-29, Philippians 4:6-7, and 1 Peter 5:7, not necessarily in that order.

We can give up when facing difficult things, but where does that leave us? We can throw away everything we've worked for when one thing breaks, or we can mend that one thing and continue to build our happiness. Life can be unpredictable; you might be in the best spot on the mountain and still have a mudslide wipe out your home. You can let that destroy you, or you can lay your burdens down and let God take care of you. Remember that we cannot let the devil win this and we must never stop fighting for what God has given us, know that He will take care of us. God said that He will never leave us, that He will never forsake us. Remember the poem “Footprints in the Sand”?

One night, I dreamed I was walking along the beach with the Lord. Many scenes from my life flashed across the sky. In each scene, I noticed footprints in the sand. Sometimes there were two sets of footprints, other times there was only one. This bothered me because I noticed that during the low periods of my life, when I was suffering from anguish, sorrow, or defeat, I could see only one set of footprints. So I said to the Lord, “You promised me, Lord, that if I followed you, you would walk with me always. But I have noticed that during the most trying periods of my life, there has only been one set of footprints. Why, when I needed you most, have you not been there for me?” The Lord replied, “The years when you have seen only one set of footprints, my child, is when I carried you.”

We are never alone! We lean on each other in times of need, but more importantly, we lean on God. He will never abandon us. When it feels like no one is there, open your heart to Him. You will find that He is indeed there, carrying you through your troubles.

I struggle with anxiety, and I know many of my friends do as well. It can be paralyzing. Yet, if we take a good look, we will find that many of our anxieties surround things that could happen but have not occurred yet. We are reminded to cast the cares of what could happen upon the Lord, for we have no control over what happens tomorrow. Let me repeat that: we have no control over what happens tomorrow. When we “cast our cares on the Lord,” we find new strength, for God is more than able to keep us from falling into the “what if’s” of the future. This trust in God is what sustains us through today’s struggles.

 

#dailybreadbykitty

Daily Inspiration from the Bible

 

answered prayers

But it is sure that God has heard. He has listened to the voice of my prayer.

- Psalm 66:19 (NLV)

 

There is power in answered prayers. Recently, someone I love dearly had a significant prayer answered. While it’s not my story to tell, I know it was a life-changing response that met their needs in many ways. I imagine that at times, this person might have felt depressed, thinking the answer would never come. We need to have faith in our prayers, faith in our God. Often, it feels like we pray endlessly without seeing any results. However, if we open our Bible, we find numerous verses that discuss the concept of answered prayer. God hears and answers those who call on Him with faith. He is always listening, and you will receive answers. Most importantly, we have to trust in God’s timing. The answers may not be what you expect or come within your desired timeframe, but they will come in God's perfect timing. Keep your faith strong and your eyes lifted to Him.

 

#dailybreadbykitty

Daily Inspiration from the Bible

 

I got lost

 Can anyone hide himself in secret places, So I shall not see him?” says the Lord; “Do I not fill heaven and earth?” says the Lord.

- Jeremiah 23:24 (NKJV)

 

I got lost again. Not literally, but I took a few days off for a camping trip with friends. Despite the break, I felt lost. My mind was weighed down with stress and discomfort, which I tried to hide. I know better; hiding is not the answer.

Hide and seek is one of the first games we learn as infants, like "peek-a-boo." As toddlers, we delight in finding the perfect hiding spot where no one can find us. I remember when my youngest child, around 8 or 9 years old, got upset and left a note saying he was running away. He then hid on the top shelf of his closet. Our middle child found the note and alerted us, starting a frantic search around the neighborhood. Eventually, we found him hiding in the closet. I told him that no matter where he hid, someone would always find him.

We cannot hide from God, nor should we want to. Secret places can be beneficial, as long as we're not trying to hide from God or our loved ones. This experience reminded me that hiding is not the answer to stress or discomfort. Instead, find your place of solace and use it to get closer to Him.

 

#dailybreadbykitty

Daily Inspiration from the Bible

perspectives

Jesus called out to them, “Come, follow me! And I will make you fishermen for the souls of men!”

- Mark 1:17 (TLB)

 

I recently heard a sermon about the disciples that Jesus chose. We are united in the mission of Jesus, no matter where we come from, how we were raised, how much money we have, or our social status. Jesus doesn't just call us out of something; He calls us into community and mission. Sometimes, that means being called into discomfort. But if we never change anything, we will never grow.

Think about it: Jesus called Peter and Andrew, both fishermen, part of a family of fishermen. He called James and John, who were also fishermen but were business owners who hired other men to work for them. Then there was Matthew, who worked as a tax collector—a profession often associated with corruption and resentment among the Jewish people. Simon the Zealot was a member of the Zealots, a group that advocated for armed rebellion against Roman rule. Jesus also called Judas, who betrayed Him, Thaddeus, Bartholomew, Philip, Thomas, and James.

Jesus called His disciples despite their differences in professions and interests, despite their differences in culture and economics, despite their differences in politics, and despite their differences in perspectives. He called big city socialites and backwoods rednecks.

Can you imagine today calling people in your city to join together for a united cause? How well would that work out? Yet, sometimes it does work out. Do you know why? Because despite our differences, we are united around the identity and mission of Jesus. 

Jesus said, "Follow me." Will you?

 

#dailybreadbykitty

Daily Inspiration from the Bible

be happy

Those who have suffered will be happier in the Lord. Those who are in need will have joy in the Holy One of Israel.

- Isaiah 29:19 (NLV)

 

We have all faced difficult times, and some have suffered worse than others. However, God promises that our joy will be renewed, deepened, and strengthened when we lean on Him. People have lost loved ones, found themselves unemployed, or dealt with the breakup of a relationship.

In response to these hardships, some people turn to alcohol or drugs, some shut out the world, and others may dive into things they shouldn't when their world turns upside down. It is challenging, but better things will come when you keep your eye on God.

There will be another job, new relationships will form, and loved ones who have passed away are free from pain and suffering. We can still experience moments of spiritual joy and sorrow. Just remember that true joy is found in God, not in worldly circumstances.

 

#dailybreadbykitty

Daily Inspiration from the Bible

lights

All this helps us know that what the early preachers said was true. You will do well to listen to what they have said. Their words are as lights that shine in a dark place. Listen until you understand what they have said. Then it will be like the morning light which takes away the darkness. And the Morning Star (Christ) will rise to shine in your hearts.

- 2 Peter 1:19 (NLV)

 

According to science, the distance you can see a light depends on its brightness and the surrounding conditions. In theory, you could see a candle flame from as far as 30 miles away on a dark, clear night. However, factors like atmospheric conditions and the Earth's curvature limit visibility in practice. A brighter light, like a lighthouse, can be seen from a greater distance than a weaker light, like a candle. Being on a higher vantage point, like a mountain, allows you to see farther than being at ground level.

We experienced this firsthand while camping once. A storm came in, and our friends, who had anchored their boat in the lake to sleep, were turned around by the winds and didn't know which way to go to find our campsite. My husband turned on our vehicle headlights to guide them back to shore.

Throughout history, sailors have used the stars to guide them at night, and people have long left lights on in their homes to help them find their way in the dark. When we are stuck in a dark place, we need light to find our way out.

God's word can be that light. It doesn't matter where you are in your darkness—whether you know the entire Bible, just a verse or two, or if you only remember the words to "Jesus Loves Me"—repeat the words over and over, and God's light will break through the darkness.

 

#dailybreadbykitty

Daily Inspiration from the Bible

all the ingredients

For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love.

- 2 Peter 1:5-7 (NIV)

 

Every recipe has ingredients, and you wouldn't be successful in your cooking endeavor if you left something out. I know someone who forgot flour once when making cookies, and I tried to make a box cake without eggs once. Both the cookies and the cake ended badly.

Substitutions are not always the best way to go either—sometimes replacing butter with margarine can alter the flavor in horrible ways.

According to the Word, to grow in our faith, we need: goodness, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, Godliness, kindness and most importantly, love.

Each of these elements mixed together, makes us stronger and better in our faith. If your faith is wavering, maybe you are missing an ingredient. We all forget something sometimes. Revisiting the recipe (the Bible) and finding the missing ingredient will make a difference in the end result (our daily life).

 

#dailybreadbykitty

Daily Inspiration from the Bible

everything we need

Jesus has the power of God, by which He has given us everything we need to live and to serve God. We have these things because we know Him. Jesus called us by His glory and goodness.

- 2 Peter 1:3 (NCV)

 

Everything.

That is pretty open-ended, isn't it? He has given us everything we need. Sometimes, it's hard to understand because we think we "need" a new car, the latest fashion trend, or the most recent iPhone.

God knows what we truly need, and He gives us everything essential. It may feel like we are not getting what we need, especially when we think of children going to bed hungry. Are they getting what they need? Is God providing for them?

Believe it or not, the answer is yes. People need to listen. God will provide a way to feed families, but sometimes, families need to meet Him halfway.

I have had my “everything” completely ripped away from me, and in those moments, I thought there was no hope. Yet, God knows what we need and provides it. With His help, I am working my way past the hardships, knowing that God will give me what I need, and my hope is restored.

We just need to listen.

 

#dailybreadbykitty

Daily Inspiration from the Bible

new leaf

Let your minds and hearts be made new.

- Ephesians 4:23 (NLV)

 

Have you heard the expression "turn over a new leaf"? A quick Google search reveals that the “leaf” in this phrase does not refer to a tree's leaf but rather to the pages in a book. In the 16th century, the pages of a book were called leaves. The analogy of turning over to a blank page and starting anew has been used since the 1500s. Although it hasn't always meant “change for the better,” it has consistently implied a fresh start. When you turn to a new, clean page, you leave the past behind and begin again.

For me, this means it's time to take back control of my life. For all of us, it means we shouldn't let our current circumstances dictate the reality that God proclaims over us through the cross of Christ. If you hate your job, find a new one! It requires time and perseverance, but it is possible. If you are struggling to pay your bills, then examine your spending habits closely. If you buy a $7 cup of coffee every day, that amounts to $210 a month—enough to cover one of your bills.

Put on your new self, be the change, and take charge of your circumstances instead of letting them control you.

I’m putting this into practice now!

 

#dailybreadbykitty

Daily Inspiration from the Bible

Attack!

But the Lord is faithful. He will give you strength and keep you safe from the devil.

- 2 Thessalonians 3:3 (NLV)

 

Protection is something we all seek. Animal mothers protect their young from predators and dangers. Human parents protect their children from injury and mistakes. Law enforcement officers protect us from those who intend to harm us. I've often heard miraculous stories of God sending angels to protect His children in dire situations.

I won't lie—I'm facing difficult times right now. My world is upside-down, and my faith is being shaken. I know my God is a God of love, mercy, and forgiveness, and that He wants me to lean in and press on. Here I am, Lord, leaning and pressing. I am asking for Your strength to fight this enemy. Even in my pain, I see that God is good, and even while I hurt, I know He is there.

I will continue to praise Him because He is faithful. I will seek His peace, which surpasses all understanding. He will give me the confidence to face the obstacles in my path. There is much evil in this world, and today, we can see it everywhere. When we rely on the Lord for our strength, He helps us fight the demons that seek to take everything from us. God will build us up and give us power over evil. All we have to do is believe that He can.

It’s a scary world out there. The thought of always being protected, seen, and loved is one I truly cherish. God loves me enough to protect me, and He loves you that much too.

 

#dailybreadbykitty

Daily Inspiration from the Bible

I stopped writing

And now just as you trusted Christ to save you, trust him, too, for each day’s problems; live in vital union with him.

- Colossians 2:6 (TLB)

 

My last “daily bread” was forty-eight days ago, just before I left the country for a relaxing vacation. I had planned to start writing again as soon as I returned, but something inside me changed, and I lost the motivation. It's not that I stopped believing—far from it. I can't pinpoint the exact "trigger," but I felt completely lost.

Then, devastating events began to unfold in my life, leaving me struggling to make sense of and find peace with them. I started questioning my faith, my path, and my relationship with God. I wondered if these terrible things were happening because I stopped writing and sharing the word.

It's time to dig in and return to reading and living His word. I believe that when I let God back in, I will start seeing changes in my world.

 

#dailybreadbykitty

Daily Inspiration from the Bible

go

Then you will go your way in safety, and you will not get hurt.

- Proverbs 3:23 (NCV)

 

When I read this verse, my first thought is “Go Your Own Way” by Fleetwood Mac, released in 1976, I am that weird.
But I chose this verse because I am going my own way tomorrow – on a very exciting trip.
It will be my first time leaving the country, and I am looking so forward to spending time on a sunny beach just soaking up the sun and enjoying the peace.

But it is scary, crazy things are happening in the world right now.
The verse emphasizes that those who follow God's wisdom will experience a sense of security, confidence, and peace, even in the face of adversity.
I’ll be gone (no “daily bread” messages) for a couple of weeks, but I know that I will be safe.

I trust in God.

 

#dailybreadbykitty

Daily Inspiration from the Bible

the difficult one

 By forbearance a ruler may be persuaded, and a soft tongue breaks the bone.

- Proverbs 25:15 (NASB1995)

 

When I'm unsure how to handle a situation, I often turn to Google (doesn’t everyone?).

I usually start with “what does the Bible say about [situation]?” and begin my search.

Often, I find that the same verses consistently appear.

Today’s verse, Proverbs 25:15, has been particularly prominent.

I've found myself in a worsening situation where people are trying to force me to do things their way, which won’t end well for me.

One of the pages I read explained Proverbs 25:15: “Forbearance means tolerance or length of anger. Even if your anger is justified, you need to lengthen it. Stretch it out; don’t have a short fuse. And, most importantly, keep a soft tongue.”

Oh crap.
Admittedly, a soft tongue was not my initial response.

The author also suggested practicing “re-framing.”

This means placing the difficult person in a different frame.

For example, if someone humiliates and intimidates you, you likely view them through that lens, reinforcing your fear.

Instead, we should ask God to change our attitude toward the situation and the person.

By re-framing them, we might change our perspective.

It's incredible how God can transform a situation when we are willing to let Him change us first.

 

#dailybreadbykitty

Daily Inspiration from the Bible

losing someone

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.

- 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 (NIV)

 

The last few months have been rough on many of my friends.
A parent should not have to bury their child, no matter how old they are, yet two of my friends have had to do that in the last month.
Grieving the loss of someone you love, no matter who it is, a child, a parent, a grandparent, a friend, a sibling, even a beloved pet, this grief hurts.

It hurts bad.
Those of us not directly impacted by the loss are sometimes unintentionally cruel.
Don’t tell someone that is grieving to “get over it”. 
Don’t try to put their grief into perspective, everyone grieves differently. 
Don’t stop talking about the one they lost, let them know of the memories you have.
As much music as I listen to, I am not sure how I did not hear this song before, Ryan Stevenson recorded and released When We Fall Apart in 2021.
Please read the lyrics, listen to the song: 
 You were forty-three when you got the news

Life will be changing, nothing we can do

The clock is ticking now

All I can think about

Is knowing I have to move on without you somehow

And I just can't believe

That you're the one whose keeping it together

As you hold my hand and say

It's ok to cry

It's ok to fall apart

You don't have to try

To be strong when you are not

And it may take sometime to make sense of all your thoughts

But don't ever fight your tears

'Cause there is freedom in every drop

Sometimes the only way to heal a broken heart is when we fall apart

You ask me to sing

Some songs that I wrote

But I can barely speak

Can barely play a note

All my tears rush in

Falling on my strings

That make the sound of these progressions have a different ring

And I hate to say goodbye

Knowing this will be the last time we're together

As you close your eyes and say

It's ok to cry

It's ok to fall apart

You don't have to try

To be strong when you are not

And it may take sometime to make sense of all your thoughts

But don't ever fight your tears

'Cause there is freedom in every drop

Sometimes the only way to heal a broken heart is when we fall apart

Whoa

And you've got the gift of mercy

Don't ever think it's strange

Not a curse, but it is a blessing to feel other people's pain

And always love without condition

And trust with all your heart

There's healing in the story of your scars

Well, it's been awhile

Since you've been gone

And sometimes I still catch myself trying to call your phone

All the hopes and dreams we used to talk about

They're still alive in me and I just hope I make you proud

Now I'm your legacy

And it's your love still holding me together

And I still hear you say

It's ok to cry

It's ok to fall apart

You don't have to try

To be strong when you are not

And it may take sometime to make sense of all your thoughts

But don't ever fight your tears

'Cause there is freedom in every drop

Sometimes the only way to heal a broken heart is when we fall apart

Yeah, yeah, it's okay to fall apart

Sometimes the only way to heal a broken heart is when we fall apart

It’s OK to cry – this directly addresses the emotional pain of loss and encourages us to acknowledge and express our feelings. 

It’s OK to grieve – let’s make it normal to validate the process of grieving and allow for the full range of emotions associated with loss.

It’s OK to fall apart – we need to acknowledge the fragility of human experience and the possibility of breaking down during difficult times.

Allowing oneself to feel vulnerable is a necessary part of healing.

This song reminds us that sometimes our greatest strength lies in acknowledging our weaknesses and allowing ourselves to surrender to the pain.

If you are grieving, it is ok.
If you know someone that is grieving, let them grieve, be their friend, and sometimes cry with them.

 

#dailybreadbykitty

Daily Inspiration from the Bible