through the pain

In all this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed.

- 1 Peter 1:6-7 (NIV)

 

Everyone faces trials; what matters is how we respond to them. I doubt there’s a single person reading this who hasn’t experienced illness, the loss of a friend or loved one, or some form of tragedy. As we fight these battles, we can always run to His arms when the storms feel too strong to bear. The trials are difficult but remember—there is joy on the other side of the pain.

So many unexpected things have happened in my life that I can’t help but believe God has been present through it all, bringing me through countless fires without letting me be badly burned. Even if I can’t always see Him, I know He’s there.

It seems to be human nature to struggle with unhappiness—you can see it in almost every face. But keep sharing the Gospel; we never know when something we say might spark a flame in someone’s heart and lead them to God. There’s no need to pressure, threaten, or distance yourself from anyone. Don’t try to change their mind—just live as an example and let them see Christ through you.

This year, the band CAIN released a song called "I Made It." Listen to the song, read the lyrics—they might resonate with you as deeply as they did with me:
Been a long year

Cried some hard tears on some dark nights

Tried to pray through

Nothing seemed to make the wrongs right (Ooh)

Oh, I can't believe the pain I've seen

But looking back

Through every step, You never left

And I'm so thankful that

I'm coming out the other side stronger

One foot in front of the other

Hands still raising, heart still praising

I made it, I made it, I made it

I made it

Through the storms, the hell and high water

I never left the hands of my Father

Lungs still breathing, thank You, Jеsus

I made it, I made it, I made it

I madе it

Oh, it cost me

But it taught me that You won't quit

How faithful

How amazing that Your grace is

Oh, no matter what this life may bring

I know You'll bring me through

And even in my suffering

Lord, I can trust in You, yeah

I'm coming out the other side stronger

One foot in front of the other

Hands still raising, heart still praising

I made it, I made it, I made it

I made it

Through the storms, the hell and high water

I never left the hands of my Father

Lungs still breathing, thank You, Jesus

I made it, I made it, I made it

I made it
An anonymous person once said, “I believe in the sun even when it isn’t shining. I believe in love even when I am alone. I believe in God even when He is silent.” There is joy to be found in everything—if you look for it, you’ll discover reasons to be truly glad, and hope for joy ahead. It’s not always easy to explain how we can love and trust a God we cannot see, especially when we or those we care about are facing difficult trials. Yet, when we consider all that God has done for us, it becomes clear how worthy He is of our trust. The love and comfort we experience when we fully surrender to Him makes every trial worthwhile.

Even when I feel alone or can’t see Him, I know He is there. And because of Him, I can look back and say I made it.

 

#dailybreadbykitty

Daily Inspiration from the Bible

goodbye

But let all who put their trust in You be glad. Let them sing with joy forever. You make a covering for them, that all who love Your name may be glad in You.

- Psalm 5:11 (NLV)

 

Did you know that we don’t have to live in the shadows? Not in the shadows of our mistakes, our parents, or even society. We can live free in Christ. Too often, we dwell on the past—reliving our worst moments and punishing ourselves for things we’ve done wrong. But when we follow Jesus, we’re no longer bound by those regrets.

Earlier this year, Elevation Rhythm and Gracie Binion released a song called “Goodbye Yesterday,” featuring lyrics that encourage powerful reflection on this very idea:

Goodbye, yesterday

I'm livin' in the light of a new day

I won't waste another minute in my old ways

Praise the Lord, I've been born again

Goodbye, yesterday

I'm livin' in the light of a new day

I won't waste another minute in my old ways

Praise the Lord, I've been born again (yeah)

Oh, I've been born again

Again and again and again and again

You rescued me out of the mess I was in

You traded my sorrow for something to sing

Now, I'm dancin' on the grave that I once lived in

Goodbye, yesterday

I'm livin' in the light of a new day

I won't waste another minute in my old ways

Praise the Lord, I've been born again

Goodbye, yesterday

The Spirit of the Lord is upon me

I've got resurrection in my veins

Praise the Lord, I've been born

Again and again and again and again

You rescued me out of the mess I was in

You traded my sorrow for something to sing

Now, I'm dancin' on the grave that I once lived in

Again and again and again and again

You rescued me out of the mess I was in

You traded my sorrow for something to sing

Now, I'm dancin' on the grave that I once lived in

Come on, we sing

I have decided to follow Jesus

The world behind, the Cross before

And I won't turn back (yeah)

I have decided to follow Jesus

The world behind, the Cross before

And I won't turn back

Sing, I have decided (I have decided)

To follow Jesus (to follow Jesus)

I'm gonna leave the world behind

The world behind, the Cross before me

(And I won't turn back)

And I have decided (I have decided)

To follow Jesus (to follow Jesus)

(The world behind) the world behind, the Cross before

And I won't turn back

Singing, I won't turn back (I won't turn back)

And I won't turn back (and I won't turn back)

No-no, no-no, no

The world behind and the Cross before

And I won't turn back

Singing, I won't turn back (I won't turn back)

And I won't turn back (I won't turn back)

No-no, no-no, no-no

The world behind and the Cross before me

(And I won't turn back)

Again and again and again and again

You rescued me out of the mess I was in

You traded my sorrow for something to sing

Now, I'm dancin' on the grave that I once lived in

Again and again and again and again

You rescued me out of the mess I was in

You traded my sorrow for something to sing

Now, I'm dancin' on the grave that I once lived in

Whoa, oh, whoa-oh-oh, yeah

Praise the Lord, I've been born again

Praise the Lord, I've been born again (hands up, hands up)

Now, I'm dancin' on the grave that I once lived in

Oh, yeah

Now, I'm dancin' on the grave that I once lived in

Yeah, yeah

Now, I'm dancin' on the grave that I once lived in

You ought to dance for the Lord

Dancin' on the grave that I once lived in

(Oh) I'm dancin' on the grave that I once lived in

Dancin' on the grave that I once lived in

Dancin' on the grave that I once lived in

(Ohh, hey) dancin' on the grave

Now, I'm dancin' on the grave that I once lived in

Dancin' on the grave that I once lived in

Dancin' on the grave that I once lived in

Oh, praise the Lord, I've been born again

“Dancing on the grave that I once lived in”—what a powerful way to describe the freedom we find in Jesus. It’s a vivid reminder that through Him, we can leave our past behind and truly live in the freedom He offers.

#dailybreadbykitty

Daily Inspiration from the Bible

my turn

Turn to me and be saved, all the ends of the earth! For I am God, and there is no other.

- Isaiah 45:22 (ESV)

 

The word "turn" carries a multitude of meanings—it can be a transitive verb, an intransitive verb, or even a noun. We can turn the corner, turn a blind eye, or turn a deaf ear. We can be changed, altered, or transformed; we can change direction or be diverted. We might turn toward something, turn away from everything, or become something—or someone—we like or don’t like. We can wait for our turn, take our turn, or even give up our turn.

In difficult times, many people turn to the bottle, to pills, or to other sources of comfort. Addiction is no joke. Ben Fuller recently released a song called "Turn" that really speaks to this struggle.

I wanted to turn to the bottle

I even drove past the bar

It turns out I'm not strong as I thought

But that's when I learned that You are

When I'm weak, You are strong

When I fall short, You go on and on

When I run, I can't run long

'Cause Your love will chase me down 'til I've got

Nowhere to turn but Jesus

I turn it all over

Let You turn it around, turn it around (ooh-ooh)

Screaming my prayers to Heaven

I turn it all over

Won't You turn it around, turn it around? (Ooh-ooh)

Couldn't get the words out to worship

But You heard me through the tears

Turns out I never had nothing to prove

And I sure don't have nothing to fear

When I run, I can't run long

'Cause Your love will chase me down 'til I got (ooh-ooh)

Nowhere to turn but Jesus (nowhere to turn but Jesus)

I turn it all over (turn it)

Let You turn it around, turn it around (ooh-ooh)

Screaming my prayers to Heaven (screaming my prayers to Heaven)

I turn it all over (turn it)

Let You turn it around, turn it around (ooh-ooh)

Mm, oh, it's Your turn to fight

It's Your turn to speak

Your turn to break every chain off of me

Your turn to be right, Your turn to redeem

Your turn to take all these burdens from me

It's my turn to heal, my turn to believe

My turn to let go and finally be free

My turn to be loved, my turn to be seen

My turn to let You be the Savior I need

When I've got

Nowhere to turn but Jesus

I turn it all over (turn it)

Let You turn it around, turn it around (ooh-ooh)

Screaming my prayers to Heaven (screaming my prayers to Heaven)

I turn it all over (turn it)

Won't You turn it around, turn it around? (Ooh-ooh)

Screaming my prayers to Heaven (screaming my prayers to Heaven)

I turn it all over (turn it)

Won't You turn it around, turn it around?

If you look nine lines from the end, you’ll find the words: “nowhere to turn but Jesus.” Truer words have never been spoken. In all of life’s struggles and difficulties, turning to Jesus truly is the best decision we can make. It isn’t always easy, but He will guide you through.

 

#dailybreadbykitty

Daily Inspiration from the Bible

a road in the desert

The voice of one crying in the wilderness: “Prepare the way of the Lord; Make straight in the desert A highway for our God.

- Isaiah 40:3 (NKJV)

 

I’ve found myself saying this often lately—2025 has been an incredibly challenging year, not just for me but for many people I care about. We’ve faced job losses, grief, breakups, and sudden changes that turned our world upside down in an instant. Earlier this year, I stopped writing altogether because it was simply too painful; it felt impossible to share anything positive or uplifting when I was struggling so much internally.

There are countless verses in the Bible about staying on the right path, and when you look closely, you see that those words were often spoken during times of uncertainty and confusion for the people living through them. Last weekend, while I was traveling, I heard a song that resonated deeply with me—“Desert Road” by Casting Crowns. It perfectly captured the feelings I’ve been experiencing.

I don't wanna write this song

I don't want this pain to be my story

I don't want this desert road

Are You sure this is the plan that You have for me?

Out here in the dust and clay

God, if there's a bigger picture

It's gettin' hard to see today

But I know that You won't leave me here

I don't know where this is goin'

But I know who holds my hand

It's not the path I would've chosen

But I'll follow You to the end

Lord, as long as I am breathin'

I will make Your glory known

Even if it means I'm walkin' on this desert road

(Where You lead me, I will follow)

On this desert road

(Wherе You lead me, I will follow)

You got my attention now

I was doin' thе talkin', but now I'm listenin'

This is where my hope is found

Knowin' life is hard, but You're still with me

I'm not out here on my own

You are close to the broken-hearted

'Cause You've already walked this road

And You're gonna finish what You started

I don't know where this is goin'

But I know who holds my hand

It's not the path I would've chosen

But I'll follow You to the end

Lord, as long as I am breathin'

I will make Your glory known

Even if it means I'm walkin' on this desert road

(Where You lead me, I will follow)

On this desert road

(Where You lead me, I will follow)

As you lift my head, I see

(Where You lead me, I will follow)

So many desperate souls in need

(Where You lead me, I will follow)

I'll walk with them as You walk with me

(Where You lead me, I will follow)

You're the livin' water to the thirsty

I don't know where this is goin'

But I know who holds my hand

It's not the path I would've chosen

But I'll follow You to the end

Lord, as long as I am breathin'

I will make Your glory known

Even if it means I'm walkin' on this desert road

We may be walking in a desert right now, starving and thirsty, but we are not alone, Jeremiah 29:11 says it perfectly:
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

 

#dailybreadbykitty

Daily Inspiration from the Bible

no paybacks

Repay no one evil for evil. Have regard for good things in the sight of all men. If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men. Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord. Therefore, “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him a drink; for in so doing you will heap coals of fire on his head.” Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

- Romans 12:17-21 (NKJV)

 

“I’ll get you, my pretty, and your little dog too!” The desire for revenge seems to be as old as time itself. Cain killed Abel out of anger—and perhaps a sense of revenge—because Abel’s offering was favored. The Bible is filled with stories of people seeking payback. But let me ask: does revenge ever truly make you feel better?

I can think of a few times when I tried to get even with someone, only to have it backfire—badly. Difficult people are everywhere: at work, in the store, on the road, in our families, and even in our churches. I once read that the number one goal in dealing with difficult people or tough circumstances is this: Don’t become what you hate. It’s not about hating the person, but about refusing to let negativity, pettiness, or sin take root in your own heart.

We are called to live at peace with everyone. Everyone. We don’t have to agree. We don’t even have to discuss. But we do have to love. We don’t overcome evil by using underhanded or dishonorable means. Instead, we drive back darkness by doing what is right and filling our hearts with goodness. There is no greater example of overcoming evil with good than Jesus.

Maybe revenge isn’t a dish best served cold. Maybe we shouldn’t serve it at all. Let’s do only what is good and right. Be peaceful. Love one another. Pray earnestly, forgive yourself and others, and lead by example. Let love guide you—always.

 

#dailybreadbykitty

Daily Inspiration from the Bible

better than others

Agree with one another. Don’t be proud. Be willing to be a friend of people who aren’t considered important. Don’t think that you are better than others.
- Romans 12:16 (NIRV)

 

Once again, I appreciate that we have access to so many translations of the Bible. While not every translation is perfectly accurate, sometimes the wording of a particular version resonates with me and fits my mood for writing that day. Today’s verse in the NIV reads: “Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.”

“Do not be conceited”—don’t think you’re better than others. That’s a powerful message, regardless of the translation you prefer. I don’t think I’ve ever met anyone who would admit to being conceited, but it’s something we all need to consider. Often, when we choose the people we want to associate with, we rarely seek out those who are overlooked or ignored by the crowd. Instead, we tend to gravitate toward those who are important, influential, or well-known—because we want to feel noticed and valued, too.

But you can tell a lot about a person by the way they treat those who serve them. Whether someone is ringing up your groceries, delivering your meal, giving professional advice, running a large company, or even leading a country, we are all the same at our core. No one is beneath you simply because of their job, and you are not beneath anyone because of your position. Titles and roles aside, we are all ordinary people—equal in dignity and worth.

I truly believe everyone should spend at least one day in a “low position.” It offers a new perspective. So, the next time you get frustrated with a server for a mistake, pause to consider the mistakes you’ve made, too. No matter what role someone holds, every person deserves to be treated with dignity and respect.

 

#dailybreadbykitty

Daily Inspiration from the Bible

 

sing out loud

But I will sing of Your power; Yes, I will sing aloud of Your mercy in the morning; For You have been my defense and refuge in the day of my trouble.

- Psalm 59:16 (NKJV)

 

For those who know me or have followed my emails or blog for a while, you already know how much I love music. There’s so much meaning captured in the lyrics of a song—sometimes, when I can’t find the right words, music expresses what I’m feeling.

It’s taken me some time, but I’m determined to finish pursuing my degree in ministry. Throughout my classes, I’ve discovered just how many songs—across so many genres—are rooted in the Bible. God loves music, too; Scripture says, “Make a joyful noise unto the Lord.”

So sing—sing loud, sing proud, and sing to the Lord. Praise Him with every breath.

 

#dailybreadbykitty

Daily Inspiration from the Bible

change

Do not act like the sinful people of the world. Let God change your life. First of all, let Him give you a new mind. Then you will know what God wants you to do. And the things you do will be good and pleasing and perfect.

- Romans 12:2 (NLV)

 

For today, I’m referencing the New Life Version of this verse, but for those who prefer a more traditional translation, the New King James Version says: “And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.”

Recently, I’ve faced some important decisions in my life, and the outcomes haven’t been what I hoped for. Even so, I didn’t conform or change simply to fit in. The patterns around me kept shifting, making the end goal seem unrealistic. Paul reminds us not to conform to the patterns of this world. That means we aren’t required to do what everyone else does—especially if it isn’t right. We don’t have to keep up with the Joneses or be just like everyone else. It’s perfectly okay to live the way God calls us to live.

Change is inevitable; we will continue to grow and adapt. But we don’t have to compromise our individuality or our faith in God. Change can be a good thing, and no matter how my decisions turn out, I am committed to doing what God wants.

 

#dailybreadbykitty

Daily Inspiration from the Bible

my friend

Dear friend, I know that your spiritual life is going well. I pray that you also may enjoy good health. And I pray that everything else may go well with you.

- 3 John 1:2 (NIRV)

 

I pray for my friends every day—sometimes by name and for their specific situations, and other times I simply ask God to meet their needs, whatever they may be. With so much turmoil in the world right now—conflicts, extreme weather, and strong differences of opinion—it can feel like a scary time to step outside. Sometimes, I even feel safer staying at home rather than venturing out.

But we were created to go out into the world, to connect with others, and to share God’s word. The verse I’m reflecting on was written to Gaius, a friend of John who was commended for his hospitality to traveling preachers. I love that message. My husband and I participate in a program that welcomes traveling motorcyclists, offering them a place to stay for a night or two on their journeys. Through this program, we’ve made many lifelong friends from all walks of life.

I think I’d like to pray this verse as a blessing over each of our travelers as they leave—asking God to watch over them and bless their journey.

 

#dailybreadbykitty

Daily Inspiration from the Bible

no stopping

He said, “I cried out to the Lord in my great trouble, and He answered me. I called to You from the land of the dead, and Lord, You heard me!

- Jonah 2:2 (NLT)

 

We all experience difficult seasons—some days are harder than others, and each of us copes with challenges in our own way. Yet, one thing we all share is the ability to call on Jesus when we’re hurting. I’ve cried out to the Lord in my darkest moments. But how often do we truly do that? When we’re hurting, scared, lonely, or lost, do we lean on Him, or do we try to carry the weight on our own?

Sometimes, trying to manage everything ourselves is like clinging to worthless idols—whether it’s money, time, or even other people. Inevitably, this only leaves us feeling more lost and weighed down.

Matthew West reminds us in his song Don’t Stop Praying that we really need to cry out when we are facing our trials:
What's your impossible? Your "I need a miracle"
What's got you barely hanging by a single thread?
What looks so hopeless now? What weighs down your heart with doubt?
You beg for a breakthrough, but no sign of breakthrough yet

When you've cried, and you've cried 'til your tears run dry
The answer won't come, and you don't know why
And you wonder if you can bow your head even one more time

Don't stop praying
Don't stop calling on Jesus' name
Keep on pounding on Heaven's door
And let your knees wear out the floor
Don't stop believing
'Cause mountains move with just a little faith
And your Father's heard every single word you're saying
So, don't stop praying

He's close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit
The Alpha and Omega knows how your story ends

When you've cried, and you've cried 'til your tears run dry
The answer won't come, and you don't know why
And you wonder if you can bow your head even one more time
Oh, do it one more time

And don't stop praying
Don't stop calling on Jesus' name
Keep on pounding on Heaven's door
And let your knees wear out the floor
Don't stop believing
'Cause mountains move with just a little faith
And your Father's heard every single word you're saying
So, don't stop praying

Oh-oh
(Don't stop, don't stop praying) oh, don't stop praying
(Don't stop, don't stop praying)
Oh-oh

Don't stop praying for the prodigal
Don't stop praying for the miracle
Hallelujah, hallelujah, and amen
Don't stop praying that addictions end
Don't stop praying for deliverance
Hallelujah, hallelujah, and amen

Oh, don't stop praying for the sickness healed
Don't stop praying for His power revealed
Hallelujah, hallelujah, and amen
No, don't stop praying for the Kingdom come
Don't stop praying that His will be done
Hallelujah, hallelujah, and amen

Don't stop praying
Don't stop calling on Jesus' name
Keep on pounding on Heaven's door
Let your knees wear out the floor
Don't stop believing
'Cause mountains move with just a little faith
And your Father's heard every single word you're saying
So, don't stop praying

oh, don't stop praying
(Don't stop, don't stop praying) hey, don't you give up now
No, don't stop praying

How blessed we are that God listens for our cries. He hears us, and He lifts us out of our sorrow. Thank you, God!

 

#dailybreadbykitty

Daily Inspiration from the Bible

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