moving forward

The Lord is the One Who goes before you. He will be with you. He will be faithful to you and will not leave you alone. Do not be afraid or troubled.
- Deuteronomy 31:8 (NLV)
 
It seems like I’m always talking about trusting God—and how we are never truly alone. But maybe that’s because it’s something we all need to be reminded of again and again.
These words, “Do not be afraid or discouraged,” appear so many times throughout Scripture. But how often do we stop and really take them to heart?
Trust is one of those things that’s easy to say but hard to live out. It’s hard to believe in, hard to earn, and sometimes even harder to give. Yet, from the very beginning, God has been inviting His people to trust Him completely.
I once read a quote that said:
“If I die tomorrow, I’ll be with the Lord.
If I live tomorrow, the Lord will be with me.
Either way, I belong to Him.
And I can never thank Him enough for staying by my side through thick and thin
If I live tomorrow, the Lord will be with me.
Either way, I belong to Him.
And I can never thank Him enough for staying by my side through thick and thin.”
Isn’t that the kind of peace we all long for—the confidence that no matter what happens, we are never alone?
When Moses was preparing Joshua to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land, he reminded him of that very truth: “The Lord himself goes before you.” Joshua would face battles, uncertainty, and doubt, but God’s presence would never leave him. That same promise still stands for us today.
God goes before us.
He stands beside us.
He covers us from behind.
And He never lets go.
So when fear creeps in or discouragement tries to settle in your heart, remember: God has already gone ahead of you. Whatever tomorrow holds, He’s already there.
Trust Him. You are never alone.
 
#dailybreadbykitty
Daily Inspiration from the Bible

the time will come

The time will come when people will not listen to the truth. They will look for teachers who will tell them only what they want to hear.
- 2 Timothy 4:3 (NLV)
 
Back in the day, we used to be able to turn on the news or pick up a newspaper and find unbiased stories about current events around the world. Those days are long gone. Networks that once focused on reporting facts now seem to focus on opinions and agendas. We often find ourselves tuning in to the channel that aligns most closely with our personal beliefs rather than one that presents the truth.
It’s not just the media—this mindset has slipped into every part of life. In school, teachers often favor students who reflect their teaching style. Coaches lean toward the players who make them look good on the scoreboard. Even in the workplace, managers tend to favor employees who mirror their own habits and values.
And that’s where it gets dangerous.
We can become so focused on pleasing others, fitting in, and being affirmed, that we stop focusing on pleasing God. We start chasing after voices that tell us what we want to hear instead of what we need to hear. We twist Scripture to fit our preferences or justify our choices. In doing so, we drift away from the truth of God’s Word and toward a comfortable version of faith that doesn’t challenge us to grow.
Paul’s warning in 2 Timothy 4:3 isn’t just about “other people.” It’s a mirror for us, too. Am I listening for truth—or am I listening for comfort? Do I seek out teachers, pastors, and friends who help me draw closer to God, or ones who make me feel better about staying the same?
The truth of God’s Word doesn’t always align with our opinions, and sometimes it convicts us deeply—but that’s how transformation begins.
We need to be people who seek the truth, even when it’s uncomfortable. That means opening our Bibles more often than we open our favorite news app. Let’s test what we hear against Scripture, and let’s invite God to shape our hearts with His truth, not the world’s version of it.
 
#dailybreadbykitty
Daily Inspiration from the Bible

approval

 Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.

- Galatians 1:10 (NIV)

Many of us spend our lives seeking approval from others—parents, teachers, bosses, friends, and sometimes even our pets! (I may have the judgiest cat in the world living in my home!)
We crave that little nod of acceptance—the good grade, the compliment, the “you’re doing great” that makes us feel valued. But did you know that human approval really doesn’t matter? In fact, it’s not where our worth comes from at all.
God’s approval matters.
God’s approval is the only approval that truly counts.
As followers of Christ, we are called to live our lives according to His expectations, not the world’s. That means our choices, words, and actions should be shaped by what pleases God—not by what makes us look good to others.
It’s not always easy. Our human hearts still long for acceptance and affirmation. We want people to like us, to understand us, to see the good we do. But at the end of the day, only God’s “Well done, My good and faithful servant” truly matters.
That’s the approval I want.
That’s the approval I need.
Now if I can just get my human mind to wrap around that truth and let go of the rest!

#dailybreadbykitty

Daily Inspiration from the Bible

 

revenge

But Lord, you rule over all. You always judge fairly. You test people’s hearts and minds. So pay them back for what they’ve done. I’ve committed my cause to you.
- Jeremiah 11:20 (NIRV)

As we go through life, we find many people who will do wrong by us.
Whether it’s a sibling, a kid in school, a coworker, a boss, or even a spouse—you will never meet a person who hasn’t been hurt, betrayed, or treated unfairly by someone else.
It’s part of life in a broken world. And when it happens, it stings.
Our first reaction is often to strike back, to “even the score,” or at least to imagine how we could.
I’ll be honest—I’ve spent hours daydreaming about how to get back at people for things they’ve done that I considered wrong. But after a while, I had to stop.
Yeah, what they did was hurtful. Maybe it was even horrible. But it’s not my place to seek vengeance.
Jeremiah understood that pain. He faced betrayal from those around him—people who plotted against his life. Instead of taking matters into his own hands, he turned to God and said, “I have committed my cause to You.”
That’s hard to do, isn’t it?
To trust that God sees the truth, knows the heart, and will handle things in His perfect time and way. But when we surrender the need for revenge, something beautiful happens—we make room for peace.
God’s justice is perfect. Ours is clouded by emotion. When we give our pain to Him, we can rest knowing that He will make things right.
So the next time someone wrongs you, instead of plotting your payback, pray this:
“Lord, I commit this to You. You know the truth. Help me to forgive and trust that You will handle it.”
Let God fight your battles—you just keep walking in His peace.

#dailybreadbykitty

Daily Inspiration from the Bible 

balance

But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.
- Matthew 6:33 (NKJV)

The world today is crazy busy. I often find myself wishing for more hours in the day, more days in the week, and more weeks in the month just to get everything done. Between work, family, friends, and responsibilities, it’s easy to feel stretched thin.
We talk a lot about “balance,” but true balance doesn’t come from perfect scheduling—it comes from putting God first.
It’s okay to say no sometimes. It’s okay to pause, breathe, and take a moment to pray instead of pushing through another task. It’s not only okay—it’s necessary.
I recently saw a meme on Facebook that said, “No matter the place or time, talk to God.” I thought it sounded like a Bible verse, so I looked it up. Google didn’t find me a verse, but it did lead me down a rabbit hole of articles—how to talk to God, when to talk to God, even why we should.
And then it hit me: the answer was simple. Seek Him first.
When you’re frustrated with work—seek Him.
When you’re lonely—seek Him.
When you’re scared—seek Him.
When life feels out of control—seek Him.
Because when you seek God first—no matter the place or time—everything else begins to fall into place. He centers your heart, calms your thoughts, and reminds you that His timing and His plans are always perfect.
True balance isn’t found in doing it all—it’s found in trusting the One who holds it all together.

#dailybreadbykitty

Daily Inspiration from the Bible

believe

For it is by believing in your heart that you are made right with God, and it is by openly declaring your faith that you are saved.
- Romans 10:10 (NLT)

Have you ever had something you believed deep down, but never said out loud? Maybe it was a feeling of love, a dream you held close, or a truth you knew but didn’t share. Keeping something inside can sometimes make it feel incomplete—like a song that’s never sung.
Romans 10:10 reminds us that faith is both believed and spoken. It begins in the heart—where we trust that Jesus is Lord, where we believe that He died and rose again for us. But it doesn’t stop there. That belief overflows and becomes a confession—words that declare, “Jesus is my Savior.”
When we speak it, something powerful happens. Our inward belief takes outward form. It’s not that the words themselves save us, but that our confession completes the picture of faith. It’s like light shining from within us for others to see.
Sometimes it’s hard to speak up about what we believe. We might fear judgment, rejection, or simply not knowing what to say. But our faith isn’t meant to be hidden—it’s meant to be lived and spoken.
When we share our faith, we give others a glimpse of God’s goodness. We plant seeds of hope and truth that might one day grow into someone else’s belief.
So today, let what’s in your heart find its way to your lips. Tell someone what Jesus means to you. Speak life, speak hope, speak faith.

#dailybreadbykitty

Daily Inspiration from the Bible

tell me

But how shall they ask Him to save them unless they believe in Him? And how can they believe in Him if they have never heard about Him? And how can they hear about Him unless someone tells them?

- Romans 10:14 (TLB)

What is something you really love?
Those who know me will tell you—I really love cats. And they aren’t wrong.
Now imagine a world where no one knows what a cat is.
For those of us who are cat lovers, life would feel a little emptier—no purrs, no meows, no furry companions curling up beside us. But if we had never known cats existed, would we even realize what we were missing?
What if someone told you about these wonderful creatures—how they bring comfort, joy, and a sense of companionship—but you didn’t believe them? Or worse, what if no one ever told you about them at all?
Now, go back and reread those sentences—only this time, replace “cat” with “Jesus.”
Over the years, people have asked me why I started writing my Daily Bread devotionals. Truthfully, there are days when I’ve wondered the same thing. Who would notice if I stopped posting or sending them out? Does it really make a difference?
But then I hear from someone who says, “That verse was exactly what I needed today,” and I’m reminded that sharing God’s Word matters deeply. Romans 10:14 tells us that people cannot believe in the One they have never heard about. How will they know about His love unless someone tells them?
If I don’t share, maybe someone misses hearing what their heart needed that day. I don’t want to be the reason someone doesn’t have the chance to know God’s love.
So I’ll keep writing. I’ll keep sharing. Because someone out there needs to hear—and maybe, through these small words, they’ll meet Jesus for the very first time.

#dailybreadbykitty
Daily Inspiration from the Bible

sunlight

 But the path of the just is like the shining sun, That shines ever brighter unto the perfect day.
- Proverbs 4:18 (NKJV)
 
Have you ever paused to watch a sunrise? It begins with just a faint sliver of light peeking over the horizon. Slowly, that light spreads across the sky, chasing away the darkness bit by bit. Each passing moment brings more warmth, more color, more life. And before you know it, the full sun stands radiant in the sky, lighting everything around you.
Depending on where you stand, the sunrise experience can be vastly different. It can be peaceful—accompanied by the gentle rustle of leaves, birds greeting the day, and the quiet hum of creation waking up. Or it can be chaotic—drowned out by the noise of traffic, distractions, and the rush of life. The sun still rises either way, but our surroundings often determine how we experience it.
Our spiritual journey is much the same. When we walk a path away from God, life can feel chaotic and dark. Anger, fear, envy, and hatred cloud our hearts, leaving us restless and blind to the beauty around us. We may not even realize how much light we’re missing. But God, in His mercy, calls us out of that chaos and invites us to step into His light.
When we begin to follow Him, the transformation doesn’t happen all at once. Just like the sunrise, His light grows gradually in our hearts. What begins as a flicker of hope becomes a steady glow of peace, love, and understanding. The more we walk with Him, the brighter our path becomes. His presence pushes back the shadows of our past and fills our days with purpose and calm.
Even in our darkest hours, when the night seems endless, we can trust that the light is coming. God never leaves us in the dark. His light will break through, bringing clarity, healing, and the quiet assurance that He is with us.
So today, take a moment to notice the sunrise—whether in the sky or in your soul. Let it remind you that God is still at work, shining His light upon your path, making it ever brighter until the full light of day.
 
#dailybreadbykitty
Daily Inspiration from the Bible

sleep

 When you lie down, you won’t be afraid. When you lie down, you will sleep soundly.
- Proverbs 3:24 (NIRV)
 
Did you know that some variation of the phrase “do not fear” appears in the Bible 365 times? That’s one reminder for every day of the year.
I’ve mentioned before that the Bible often repeats things—and maybe that’s because God knows how often we need to hear them. Fear doesn’t just visit us once and then disappear. It shows up in the middle of the night, in uncertain news, in health struggles, in the unknown.
For a long time, I struggled with sleep. Sometimes it was physical pain that kept me awake. Other times it was the kind of fear that creeps into your thoughts and won’t let go. Nightmares. Anxiety. Restlessness. I tried everything: warm non-caffeinated drinks, over-the-counter sleep aids, relaxing music. Some things helped temporarily, but peace felt just out of reach.
Fear has a way of stealing the rest our bodies—and souls—desperately need.
And here’s the hard part: not everyone understands. People might say, “Just get over it” or “Stop worrying so much.” But fear isn’t something you can switch off with a thought. Anxiety can be crippling. And shame often tags along, making us feel weak for feeling afraid.
That’s why I love the promise in Proverbs 3:24:
“When you lie down, you won’t be afraid. When you lie down, you will sleep soundly.”
It doesn’t say, “You’ll never have anything scary happen.”
It says that you don’t have to be afraid when you lie down—because you’re not lying down alone.
God is with you.
His presence drives out fear.
His peace settles over your mind like a warm blanket.
His Word quiets the lies that shout in the dark.
I think of songs that have helped me hold on to that truth:

• “Fear, you don’t own me” — Francesca Battistelli, The Breakup Song

• “Fear Is a Liar” — Zach Williams

• “Oh Death” — MercyMe

Each one is different in style and sound, but the message is the same:
When we turn to God, fear loses its grip.
Fear might show up at your door—but it doesn't get to stay.
Not when the God of peace is living in your heart.
Maybe sleep has been hard for you lately. Maybe your thoughts race the moment your head hits the pillow. Maybe you know fear all too well.
Can I remind you today? You are not alone.
You don’t have to fear the night.
God is with you—even in the dark. Especially in the dark.
So tonight, before you close your eyes, speak His name.
Read His Word.
Play a song that reminds you of His truth.
Pray, even if it’s a whisper.
And trust this promise:
Your sleep can be sound—because your Savior doesn’t sleep, and He’s watching over you.
 
#dailybreadbykitty
Daily Inspiration from the Bible

strength in trouble

 God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.
- Psalm 46:1 (KJV)
 
Social media can be… interesting, to say the very least.
I’m thankful for it in many ways. It’s helped me reconnect with friends and family, and even make some new ones. I enjoy scrolling through pictures of pets, children, and grandbabies. I even laugh at the occasional meme or silly video.
A while back, a friend posted something that has stayed with me ever since. It went like this:
“I asked for strength –
And God gave me difficulties to make me strong.
I asked for wisdom –
And God gave me problems to solve.
I asked for courage –
And God gave me dangers to overcome.
I asked for love –
And God gave me troubled people to help.
My prayers were answered
And God gave me difficulties to make me strong.
I asked for wisdom –
And God gave me problems to solve.
I asked for courage –
And God gave me dangers to overcome.
I asked for love –
And God gave me troubled people to help.
My prayers were answered.”
There’s a lot of truth packed in there.
This is one of the ways I genuinely appreciate social media. People share their lives—their joys and their sorrows, their struggles and celebrations. I’ve been blessed to receive prayers and encouragement from friends when I’ve opened up about something hard. And I try to return the favor when others are hurting too.
But it makes me wonder:
What did we do before social media?
Where did we turn when life got heavy and uncertain?
The answer is: We should have always turned to God.
Even now—with all the convenience and instant connection at our fingertips—our first place of refuge should still be Him. While it’s comforting to hear kind words from friends or find advice through a quick search, the truest strength, wisdom, courage, and love can only come from one source: God the Father.
Psalm 46:1 says, “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” That means before we reach for our phones or type out a post, we can reach for Him. We don’t need Wi-Fi to connect with our Creator. He’s already there—listening, caring, guiding, helping.
If we take a step back and really consider our lives, we’ll see that God has been answering our prayers all along. Maybe not always in the ways we expected—but always in the ways we needed.
So today, whatever you’re facing, whether you post it or not, remember:
You have a refuge.
You have a source of strength.
You have an ever-present help.
His name is Jesus.
 
#dailybreadbykitty
Daily Inspiration from the Bible

 

welcome, fall

 The grass withers, the flower fades, But the word of our God stands forever.
- Isaiah 40:8 (NKJV)
 
My grandmother and my mother could make any plant thrive. Seriously—green thumbs must run in the family… but the gene skipped me.
Growing up, my mom kept no fewer than thirty houseplants. Each day, she lovingly tended to them, knowing what each one needed to flourish. Meanwhile, I’ve somehow managed to kill a plastic plant. (Yes, I know how ridiculous that sounds—but it’s true!)
Every plant I’ve owned has met a noble, if not premature, death.
Well, except one.
I’ve had a single succulent alive since March 2021—and I honestly have no idea how. I just hope it keeps holding on.
Now here we are, deep into fall. According to the calendar, it’s the season when plants are supposed to wither and die. And yet, in my part of the country, it’s still hitting the 80s during the day. It doesn’t quite feel like fall, but I know it’s here—marked by cooler nights, the scent of bonfires, and the slow transformation of green leaves into fiery gold.
Fall is one of my favorite times of year. It brings football games, hot apple cider, cozy sweaters, and the early signs of holiday cheer. Soon, there’ll be kids in silly costumes at church events, families gathered around tables for Thanksgiving, and twinkling lights ushering in Christmas.
And through it all, there’s a quiet, steady reminder:
The word of our God endures forever.
No matter what season we’re in—physically or spiritually—God’s Word remains unchanged.
When the leaves turn brown and fall… His Word stands.
When the snow covers everything in silence… His truth speaks.
When the sun scorches or the rain pours… His promises endure.
You can’t overwater the Word of God.
You can’t give it too much light.
It never freezes, never wilts, and never dies.
And here’s the part that amazes me most: even if I can’t make a single plant grow, I can still share the living Word of God—and watch people grow in Him.
So, as we sip cider, rake leaves, and count down the days to the holidays, let’s hold fast to the one thing that doesn’t change with the seasons: the enduring, life-giving Word of God.
Read it. Share it. Plant it in your heart.
Because flowers may fall, and grass will fade—but God’s Word?
It will outlast everything.
 
#dailybreadbykitty
Daily Inspiration from the Bible

the throne

Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.
- Hebrews 4:16 (NIV)
 
Did you ever get sent to the principal’s office as a kid?
For many of us, that walk down the hallway felt like a walk of shame. The principal was the authority figure—the one in charge—and being summoned there usually meant trouble. Fear, guilt, and anxiety often followed us through that door.
Sometimes, we carry that same mindset into our relationship with God. We imagine His throne room like the principal’s office—off-limits unless we’ve done something wrong, or unless we’ve been “good enough” to earn an audience. We shrink back, feeling unworthy or unsure of how we’ll be received.
But friend, that’s not the picture Scripture gives us.
I once had a Bible study leader say something that forever changed the way I see God’s throne. She said, “We can run into the throne room (no getting in trouble for running in God’s house!), climb into His lap, and pour out our troubles, dreams, hopes, and fears—while He holds us.”
What a powerful image.
This isn’t a place of punishment—it’s a place of presence. A place of peace. A place of power. And, according to Hebrews 4:16, we’re not just invited in—we’re urged to come boldly. Not because of anything we’ve done, but because of what Jesus has done.
We don’t need a hall pass. We don’t have to be in trouble. We don’t have to clean ourselves up first. We come just as we are—hurting, exhausted, overwhelmed—and find mercy and grace exactly when we need it most.
I recently heard grace described this way:
“Undeserved blessing. Unmerited favor. God’s enabling power.”
Run to the One who empowers you.
Run to the Father who holds you.
Yes. That’s what we find at the throne. That’s what meets us in our weakest moments.
Life is hard. God knows that. He hasn’t called us to walk through this world alone. When we feel stretched thin or worn out, His Word doesn’t say, “Try harder.” It says, “Come closer.”
Run to the throne.
Run to the place where mercy meets you.
So, today, don’t hesitate. Don’t hold back.
Whatever you’re facing, you are welcomed in love. Run to the throne.
 
#dailybreadbykitty
Daily Inspiration from the Bible

  

friends

A friend loves at all times. They are there to help when trouble comes.
- Proverbs 17:17 (NIRV) 
 
Sometimes we are blessed with many friends. But what do we truly consider a friend?  We have social media friends, work friends, church friends, organization friends, school friends — and those we’ve known so long that we can’t even remember how the friendship began. Social media helps us reconnect with people from our past and even meet new ones, but how often do we stop and evaluate our friendships? True friends are the ones who walk with us through the rough times — those who encourage, support, lift us up when we’re at our lowest, and lovingly give us that nudge (or kick in the backside) when we need it most. Fair-weather friends are easy to find, but genuine friendships reveal their depth during seasons of turbulence and storms. How many friends do you have who will show up no matter the time, the weather, or the circumstance? Those are the friends Scripture speaks of — the kind willing to “lay down their life for another” (John 15:13). These are your Proverbs 17:17 friends. Hold tightly to those friends. Cherish them. Be that kind of friend in return. If you’re walking through a storm right now, who can you lean on? Don’t try to weather it alone — reach out. And if your skies are clear today, look around. Who near you is struggling, silently praying for a friend to stand beside them? In every season, let’s be intentional — to serve one another in Christ, to love deeply, and to reflect the steadfast friendship that Jesus shows us. I know who my Proverbs 17 friends are. Do you?
 
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Daily Inspiration from the Bible
 

relatable

The word of God is alive and active. It is sharper than any sword that has two edges. It cuts deep enough to separate soul from spirit. It can separate bones from joints. It judges the thoughts and purposes of the heart.
- Hebrews 4:12 (NIRV)
 
It’s often been said that we don’t judge the Bible — the Bible judges us. Yet, many people try to justify their choices by claiming that Scripture is outdated or irrelevant to modern life. Sometimes, when they read God’s Word and feel convicted, they respond by dismissing it altogether. Some argue that the Bible was written too long ago to matter today — that it’s just a collection of stories penned by men, not accounts of real events. But the truth is, every word of Scripture carries power and purpose. From Genesis to Revelation, the Bible reveals timeless truths about the human heart and the character of God. Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control — these are not ancient ideals but daily callings that still shape who we are meant to be. 
How can anyone say the Bible doesn’t matter, when it speaks directly to every emotion, every struggle, and every hope we experience?
The Word of God is not outdated — it is alive, active, and eternally relevant.
 
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Daily Inspiration from the Bible

lies

 But this is what you must do: Tell the truth to each other. Render verdicts in your courts that are just and that lead to peace.
- Zechariah 8:16 (NLT)
 
One of today’s most common buzzwords is “trigger.” Different things trigger different reactions in different people. For me, one of my biggest triggers is dishonesty. Do not, under any circumstance, lie to me and expect that we will still be friends. I will forgive you, because Christ calls me to forgive, but I will not continue to cultivate a relationship built on deception. Trust is a fragile thing, and once it’s broken, it’s hard to repair.
Recently, an old acquaintance reached out to me about a mutual friend who seemed to be in a dire situation. As we compared notes, we discovered that this friend had given each of us completely different stories about the same situation—distinctively different lies. I don’t think she ever considered that we might talk to one another. It made me wonder: how does someone even keep track of all the lies they’ve told? Wouldn’t it be far simpler, and far more freeing, to just tell the truth from the beginning?
The Bible is clear about this. Telling the truth isn’t just a good moral principle—it’s a command from God. Lies destroy relationships, breed confusion, and erode trust. Truth, on the other hand, brings peace, clarity, and freedom.
As believers, we’re called to live differently from the world. We’re called to be people of integrity whose words can be trusted, people who speak truth even when it’s uncomfortable or inconvenient. We should always ask ourselves: Are my words consistent with God’s truth? Am I living in a way that others can trust what I say? Do my actions line up with my promises?
We may not be able to control whether others tell the truth, but we can control our own honesty. In doing so, we reflect Christ, who is “the way, the truth, and the life” (John 14:6).
 
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Daily Inspiration from the Bible

pathways

 The Lord says, “I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. I will advise you and watch over you.
- Psalm 32:8 (NLT)

I’m proud to say I’m “Atlas years old.” That means I grew up in the days when if you wanted to go somewhere, you pulled out a Rand McNally road atlas or one of those massive, impossible-to-refold paper maps. I still remember sitting at the kitchen table with a map and a highlighter, planning a road trip to Michigan in 1985. Those were the days of plotting every turn and hoping you didn’t miss your exit because re-routing wasn’t so simple. 

Fast-forward to today, and navigation has become second nature. We just punch an address into our phones, and a calm voice (usually named Siri or something similar) tells us exactly where to go. Even our cars, trucks, and motorcycles have built-in systems to get us from point A to point B using the "best possible route." It’s convenient, efficient, and honestly—pretty amazing. 

But here’s the thing: no matter how advanced our GPS is, the moment we take a wrong turn, miss an exit, or stop for a bathroom break that wasn’t in the plan, that calm voice starts recalculating. She doesn't yell, scold, or give up. She simply says, “Recalculating…” and begins to guide us back on track. 

Wouldn’t it be great if we had something like that for life? A spiritual GPS? A biblical Siri to say, “In 500 feet, turn your heart back to God” or “You’ve gone too far—make a U-turn immediately.” 
But here’s the good news: we do.
God Himself is our ultimate Navigator. From the moment we’re born, our destination is set—Heaven. And while life throws detours, distractions, and sometimes full-on roadblocks, God never stops guiding us back. Even when we choose the wrong path, He lovingly corrects our course. Remember, Psalm 119:105 (ESV) - “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” God’s Word is our roadmap. The Holy Spirit is our inner guide. And Jesus is the way as we learned in John 14:6 (NIV) - “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” 
There are seasons when we’re tempted to mute God's voice and go our own way—when pride, sin, or weariness cause us to stray. But God, in His mercy, never gives up on us. He gently nudges us, calls us back, and recalculates our path with grace and patience. We just need to remember: don’t turn off the Navigator.
Trust that even when you feel lost, God knows exactly where you are—and how to bring you home. Stay strong, friends. Let the Lord be your GPS—and follow Him all the way to your eternal destination.

 

#dailybreadbykitty

Daily Inspiration from the Bible

weddings

 

So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.
- Matthew 19:6 (NIV)

In July of 2015, my amazing husband was ordained to perform weddings. Eight years later, in June 2023, I completed my training as a Christian Wedding Officiant and was ordained as well. This ministry has become such a meaningful part of our lives, and this past weekend was a beautiful reminder of why we said yes to this calling. 
We traveled 24 hours round trip—12 hours each way—to officiate the wedding of two very dear friends. The weather was perfect, the venue was stunning, and everything unfolded just as planned. The ceremony was filled with joy, tears, and the unmistakable presence of God. What an honor it was to stand beside them as they made their covenant before Him.
At the reception, the DJ invited all married couples to the dance floor for the “Anniversary Dance.” One by one, couples were asked to step off the floor based on how long they’d been married: less than 24 hours (the bride and groom exited, laughing), less than 5 years, 10 years, 15, and so on. My husband and I made our exit at 25-30 years, and the countdown continued—35, 40, 45, 50, and 55.
I was deeply moved to see how many couples were still dancing after 45 years of marriage. The final couple standing had been married for 56 years and will celebrate their next anniversary the weekend of October 11th. What a beautiful testimony of lifelong love and faithfulness.
The secret to lasting love? It's not really a secret at all—it's God. The bride and groom beautifully symbolized this truth during their unity ceremonies. First, they poured three colors of sand into a heart-shaped vessel—each color representing the bride, the groom, and God. Then, they braided three strands together in a cord, representing the same powerful truth: "Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken." — Ecclesiastes 4:12 (NIV)
This verse reminds us that marriage was never meant to be done in our own strength. When God is at the center—when He is the third strand—our marriages are stronger, more resilient, and filled with purpose.
As Christian couples, we must continue to invite God into our marriages—through prayer, worship, and the daily choice to serve one another in love. Attending church together, reading Scripture, and speaking life into one another are all ways we keep that third strand strong.
May we strive not just for long marriages, but for godly ones—marriages that reflect Christ’s love, that endure through every season, and that glorify Him every step of the way. 

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Daily Inspiration from the Bible

no hurt

 You planned to harm me. But God planned it for good. He planned to do what is now being done. He wanted to save many lives.
- Genesis 50:20 (NIRV)
 
Bullies are real. People hurt us—sometimes on purpose, sometimes without meaning to—but hurt is still hurt. Maybe it’s something small, like hearing a friend speak badly about you behind your back. Or maybe it’s something huge, like being falsely accused and facing financial loss or losing a job. Too often, people tear others down in order to build themselves up.  If anyone knew what it was like to be bullied, it was Joseph. His brothers sold him into slavery and lied to their father about his disappearance. Later, his master’s wife, angry that Joseph refused her advances, accused him of something he didn’t do. He was thrown into prison for years.  And yet, Joseph didn’t let bitterness consume him. Fast forward, and Joseph was raised up to a place of authority in Egypt. When famine came, his brothers stood before him desperate for food. Joseph could have refused them, remembering every cruel thing they had done. But instead, he forgave them. Why? Because he saw God’s hand at work. “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good.” Life is full of painful moments and unfair treatment. People will continue to hurt us. But we cannot let the bullies win. Instead, we must trust that God is weaving even the hardest moments into His greater plan. The road may be long and filled with hardship, but you are never alone—God is with you. He sees every wrong, every tear, every wound. And though we may not understand it today, He promises to bring good from what was meant for harm, if we keep our eyes on Him and place our hope in His plan. So, when hurt comes, remember Joseph’s story. People may intend evil—but God always has the final word. And His word is good.
 
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Daily Inspiration from the Bible

believe

 I would have lost heart, unless I had believed That I would see the goodness of the Lord In the land of the living.
- Psalm 27:13 (NKJV)
 
What would you wish for if you stumbled upon a genie in a bottle? Many would ask for wealth, good health, or fame. Others might long for love, acceptance, or peace. Students might wish for perfect grades. Those in battle might plead for victory or rest. But here’s the truth: every one of these desires—at their deepest level—can only be satisfied through Christ. Miracles surround us every single day, though we often fail to recognize them. Financial freedom can be found by practicing wisdom—learning to budget and avoiding crushing debt. Health improves when we nourish our bodies with good food, rest, and exercise, even if we start late. Fame, on the other hand, isn’t all it’s cracked up to be; many who reach it discover unbearable pressure and loneliness. Love? It’s right in front of us. No one will ever love you more than God does. Acceptance? The cross is the ultimate declaration that you belong to Him. And peace? True peace won’t come from world leaders or global agreements, but from hearts surrendered to Christ. History reminds us that even great accomplishments often follow failure. Thomas Edison famously said he didn’t fail 1,000 times, but discovered 1,000 ways that didn’t work. In the same way, our setbacks can be steps toward God’s greater plan. We may not see a “perfect” world in our lifetime, but we can see the goodness of the Lord here and now. We see it in creation’s beauty, in the simple gift of breath in our lungs, in the daily blessings we so easily overlook. Life may not be everything we imagined, but in Christ, it is still deeply good. So, instead of wishing on a genie, let us live with confidence that God’s goodness is here—in the land of the living—and it will carry us until the day we see Him face to face.
 
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Daily Inspiration from the Bible

don't say a word

Even fools are thought to be wise when they keep silent; when they keep their mouths shut, they seem intelligent.
- Proverbs 17:28 (NLT)
 
Have you ever said something, and the moment the words left your lips, you wished you could take them back? That sinking feeling is often called “foot in mouth.” I used to be pretty good at keeping my thoughts to myself, but at least twice this past year, I opened my mouth and promptly inserted my foot. In both situations, I felt immediate regret. My outbursts of anger did lead to change in my life, but not without months of fear and uncertainty first. By God’s grace, things eventually turned out for the better, but not everyone is so fortunate. Scripture reminds us in James 1:19–20 that we must be “quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry.” If I had followed that wisdom, the road may have been smoother. It’s hard to hold our tongues, especially when fueled by passion or frustration, but silence is often the wiser choice. I once read that the words listen and silent are made up of the same six letters. Coincidence? Probably not. Listening requires silence. And silence often speaks louder than any words we could say in the heat of the moment. The next time you feel the urge to speak too quickly, remember: even fools appear wise when they keep silent. Wisdom often begins with restraint, and God can use our quiet to bring peace where words might only bring regret.
 
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Daily Inspiration from the Bible 

all my hard work

 Anything I wanted, I took. I did not restrain myself from any joy. I even found great pleasure in hard work, an additional reward for all my labors. But as I looked at everything I had worked so hard to accomplish, it was all so meaningless. It was like chasing the wind. There was nothing really worthwhile anywhere.
- Ecclesiastes 2:10-11 (NLT)
 
There’s an old saying: “The rich keep getting richer and the poor keep getting poorer.” That may not be entirely true, but one quote is—"money will never buy happiness”.
We see it everywhere. People crave more and more, regardless of the cost. My generation grew up differently. We didn’t get participation trophies, and if you got in trouble at school, you could expect even more trouble at home. Respect was expected. Hard work was required. You earned what you had. But today, the drive looks different. Many go into debt just to keep up appearances—buying the latest technology, the newest car, or the biggest house. And yet, when the shine wears off, what do these things truly give us? Solomon, the wisest man who ever lived, wrestled with this same truth. He had wealth, wisdom, power, and pleasures beyond what most of us could imagine. And still, he declared it all meaningless—like chasing after the wind. Every earthly pleasure, when disconnected from God’s blessing, leaves us empty. Happiness isn’t found in our possessions, our status, or our success. True joy only comes through Jesus Christ. He alone gives life meaning. He alone provides lasting peace and eternal hope. So instead of chasing what never satisfies, let us anchor our hearts in the One who does. In Him, our toil has purpose. In Him, our lives have meaning. And in Him, our joy is complete.
 
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Daily Inspiration from the Bible
 

grief

The eyes of a wise person see things clearly. A person who is foolish lives in darkness. But I finally realized that death catches up with both of them.
- Ecclesiastes 2:14 (NIRV)
 
A few days ago, my big brother would have turned 65. Instead of calling to wish him a happy birthday, surprising him with a party, or talking about his retirement plans, I was once again reminded that he was taken from us in 1991. Any celebrations now are in Heaven.
Grief is strange. I once heard on a Netflix series: “Grief never really goes away. It gets quieter, slower, and sometimes it comes rushing back like the sea.” That struck a deep chord with me.
Grief doesn’t only come with death. It can rise from many losses — the passing of a loved one or pet, a devastating diagnosis, the end of a job, or a broken relationship. We often think we’ve moved past the pain, only to be caught in the cycle again days, months, or even years later.
What makes it harder is when people don’t understand. Sometimes their “encouragement” feels more like dismissal: “Get over it,” or “It’ll get better,” or the one that stings the most, “It was just a pet.” Everyone grieves differently. What may seem small to one person can feel overwhelming to another.
The truth is, death and loss are part of every human story. As one quote puts it: “No matter how big your house is, how recent your car is, or how large your bank account is, our graves will always be the same size.”
But that’s not the end of the story. At the center of life and death stands Jesus. He willingly died for us, making a way for us to be right with God. His sacrifice brings meaning to our suffering and hope beyond the grave.
So when grief rises again like a wave, let it remind you: this life is not the end. Choose to be a person who sees with clarity—not just the pain of today, but the promise of eternity.
 
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Daily Inspiration from the Bible
  

blessed

 If anyone pays attention to what they’re taught, they will succeed. Blessed is the person who trusts in the Lord.
- Proverbs 16:20 (NIRV)
 
"God Bless You" is more than just words. Many times throughout the week, I hear people say, “God bless you.” Sometimes it’s said in gratitude—when someone is truly thankful for a kind gesture. Other times, it's just an automatic response to a sneeze. Since my family moved to the South, I’ve also picked up on some regional expressions, like the ever-popular “Bless your heart.” At first, I thought that was a sweet and compassionate phrase. But over time, I’ve learned that “Bless your heart” isn’t always as kind as it sounds. Sometimes, it’s just a polite way of saying, “I’m glad it’s you and not me.” So, how do you respond? For a while, I used to respond to “God bless you” with, “He already has!” It was a cheerful, faith-filled response, and it still is. But lately, I’ve been wondering: How often do we really stop and think about our blessings? How often do we pause long enough to consider the ways God has already blessed us? There’s a saying that goes, “When praises go up, blessings rain down.” While it's not a direct Bible verse, the principle behind it is biblical. When we live in obedience to God and offer Him genuine praise, we open our lives to His favor. Not always in material ways, but in deeper, more meaningful ways—peace, joy, purpose, and provision. Believe it or not, there's a powerful spiritual lesson hidden in a scientific study about rats. Researchers have found that a rat’s behavior is shaped by two main psychological processes: conditioned avoidance and learned helplessness. In one experiment, a rat is placed in a chamber where one side is consistently paired with an unpleasant stimulus, like a small electric shock. Eventually, the rat learns to avoid that side altogether. In another experiment, a rat is placed in an environment where it receives inescapable shocks—no matter what it does, it can’t avoid them. Later, even when it’s moved to a space where escape is possible, the rat doesn’t even try. It’s been conditioned to believe that nothing it does will change the outcome. It made me wonder—are we the same way? Are we, like those rats, conditioned by life to avoid what might hurt, even when that means avoiding growth, obedience, or stepping out in faith? Do we grow numb to God's Word because we’ve stopped believing it makes a difference? Or are we actively learning, growing, and paying attention to the truth of Scripture? The Bible isn’t meant to be just a source of comfort—it’s meant to transform us, challenge us, and lead us into the fullness of life with Christ.
I saw a sign the other day that stopped me in my tracks. It said: “What if you woke up this morning with only the things you thanked God for yesterday?”
What a powerful reminder. In our busy, conditioned lives, are we pausing to recognize our blessings? Are we thanking God daily, not just for the big things, but for the small graces too—like health, breath, relationships, food, purpose?The truth is, “God bless you” is more than just a polite phrase. It’s a prayer. A declaration. A reminder.
Yes, God has already blessed us—through Jesus, through His Word, and through countless everyday mercies. But how we recognize, respond to, and live out those blessings is up to us. So today, ask yourself: What have I learned about God lately? What am I truly thankful for? Am I letting God’s Word transform me—or am I living in spiritual autopilot? Let’s not be passive participants in our faith. Let’s be people who see our blessings clearly, give thanks freely, and live boldly in obedience to the One who blesses us beyond measure.
 
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Daily Inspiration from the Bible
 

look deep

All a person’s ways seem pure to them, but motives are weighed by the Lord.
- Proverbs 16:2 (NIV)
 
When you make a decision, can you honestly look in the mirror and say it was the right one? Not just right in your own eyes—but right in the light of God’s Word?
Scripture is often compared to a mirror. When we look into it, we see a reflection—not just of our outward appearance, but of our heart, our motives, and our true spiritual condition. The more we align our lives with God's truth, the clearer that reflection becomes.
Mirror, mirror on the wall, who is the holiest of them all?
The answer isn’t found in flattery or comparison—it’s found in obedience. But what happens when we stop looking into that mirror? We forget who we really are. We begin to deceive ourselves. Pride, lust, apathy—these can start to feel normal. Without the mirror of God's Word to expose what’s beneath the surface, it becomes all too easy to justify behavior that, deep down, we know isn’t right.
When we drift away from Scripture—when we stop letting God’s Word speak into our decisions and shape our character—that’s when compromise takes over. Little by little, we become spiritually numb.
We need more than just another Bible study—we need transformation. We need to let God’s Word do what it was meant to do: cut through the noise, confront our sin, and change our hearts from the inside out.
So let me ask again:
What do you see in the mirror?
Where do your motives come from?
Let God’s Word be the mirror that reflects truth, corrects what’s wrong, and leads you into a life of righteousness.
 
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Daily Inspiration from the Bible
 

better than gold or silver

How much better to get wisdom than gold, and good judgment than silver!
- Proverbs 16:16 (NLT)
 
What are the greatest riches in life? Surely, they are not silver or gold. As valuable as material wealth may seem, it pales in comparison to something of infinitely greater worth—wisdom. True wisdom helps us discern what is valuable, what is true, what is worthy of our hearts—and what is not. Silver and gold can buy many things, but they can’t purchase favor with God. They can't grant us understanding or lasting peace. These gifts come only from seeking God and depending on the Holy Spirit, who gives us wisdom that is spiritual, eternal, and pure—not fleeting or self-centered. There is simply no comparison between wealth and wisdom. God-given wisdom is far more precious than anything money could ever buy. I've known people who spent their lives chasing riches, only to lose far more than their money along the way. Some ended up with broken families and empty hearts, still unable to sustain the lifestyle they pursued. It’s a truly tragic outcome. But I’ve also known many who chose a different path—those who placed Jesus at the center of their lives and sought wisdom from Him. These individuals are marked by deep contentment. Their needs have always been met by God's faithful hand, and they enjoy rich fellowship—not only with Him, but also with their families and with fellow believers who love and support them. This doesn't mean they live problem-free lives—of course not. But they have the comfort, guidance, and strength that come from God’s Word, and the wise counsel of the Holy Spirit in every season. When you have true wisdom, you begin to see clearly: what is valuable, what is true, what deserves your heart—and what never did.
 
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Daily Inspiration from the Bible

it's love

Those who accept my commandments and obey them are the ones who love me. And because they love me, my Father will love them. And I will love them and reveal myself to each of them.
- John 14:21 (NLT)
 
Love—especially new love—is a beautiful and enriching gift. In the coming weeks, my husband and I have the privilege of officiating weddings for three couples deeply in love. These moments have prompted me to reflect on the true nature of love and its deeper meaning. True love goes far beyond feelings or words—it’s revealed through action. We see this in our relationships with spouses, children, and close friends. When we truly love someone, we show it through what we do. The same principle applies to our relationship with the Lord. The clearest evidence of our love for Him is found in our obedience to His commands. It’s not enough to say we love God if we have no intention of following His ways. In today’s world, many acknowledge Jesus—some admire His teachings or believe He was a good man—but stop short of embracing Him as the Son of God. Without this belief, there's little motivation to live in obedience to His Word. But for those of us who have placed our faith in Jesus as Lord and Savior, we understand that obedience is not a burden—it’s a response to His great love for us. We trust that His commands are given for our good, because He knows us, created us, and loves us like no one else ever could. If you find there’s little desire in your heart to obey God’s Word, it’s worth taking time to reflect and examine whether genuine salvation has taken place. Yes, even believers stumble and fall into sin. But the Holy Spirit convicts us, we confess, and by God's grace, we press on with a renewed desire to live differently. God sees our hearts—He knows when our desire is to honor Him. As followers of Jesus, our love is demonstrated through obedience—by following His teachings and the example He set for us. This obedience leads to deep, lasting blessings: Jesus reveals more of Himself to us and makes His home in our hearts.
 
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Daily Inspiration from the Bible

unity

How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!
- Psalm 133:1
 
I wanted to share some reflections on our recent chapter retreat in southwest Missouri. From Friday night until Sunday morning, we immersed ourselves in a four-session Bible study, enjoyed the thrill of riding dirt bikes and ATVs, engaged in games and crafts, and held a worship service. Even though part of Saturday brought torrential rain, it didn't dampen our spirits. We were together, cherishing the community and unity of our chapter. Being cut off from the rest of the world for the weekend was truly amazing, and I believe everyone walked away on Sunday with hearts full.
Sadly, upon returning to society, I find myself heartbroken by the state of the world. It seems not much has changed. Differences in opinion should not prevent us from loving each other. Silence on a subject doesn't mean indifference. Topics like politics, race, religion, and money have become divisive, often dealing the final blow to fragile friendships. In recent years, we've seen families torn apart over differing outlooks on various subjects.
Back in 2016, a dear friend wrote to me: "I wish we would live like Jesus lived. Families lived together. Everyone in Nazareth knew each other, knew who was good and who could not be trusted, and they all encouraged each other to live in peace. There were no phones, no TV, no PCs, and travel for work and living was rare. These close personal relationships bound people together. I know we wouldn't have all these luxuries, but God never gave those things to Adam and Eve, and He loved them with all His being. He didn't build them a home; He made a garden for them. It wasn't until after the flood that scriptures speak of rain or cold and the need for shelter."
I agree with my friend. I wish we could live in unity as they did back then. Sadly, today's world is too full of pain.
Take care and remember to cherish our time together.
 
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Daily Inspiration from the Bible

as one

Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind.
- Philippians 2:1-2 (NIV)
 
Paul’s words here are a powerful call to unity. He reminds us that our encouragement, comfort, and compassion all flow from our relationship with Christ. If we have truly experienced His love, then we are called to reflect that love in our relationships with one another.
Unity doesn’t mean we all have to think exactly alike or agree on every detail. Instead, it means we share the same love—the love of Christ—and let that love guide our actions, our words, and our attitudes. Paul urges us to be "one in spirit and of one mind," not for our own sake, but so that the world can see Christ through us.
Imagine a community where everyone is quick to encourage, eager to comfort, and overflowing with compassion. That’s the kind of church, the kind of workplace, the kind of family that brings joy to God’s heart and hope to the world.
So today, let’s ask ourselves: Are we living out the unity and love that Christ has shown us? Are we making His joy complete by being like-minded, sharing His love, and working together in harmony? May we be a people who reflect Christ’s love in all we do.
 
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Daily Inspiration from the Bible