October 22, 2026

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Devotional

Verse of the Day - Galatians 6:2

Carry each other's burdens and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.

—Galatians 6:2

Thoughts on Today's Verse...

Sometimes I let myself feel so burdened by my problems that I don't even see others' struggles, trials, and hardships. But Jesus reminds me that if I am to be like him, truly JESUShaped, I will be a burden-bearer for others. This principle is implicit in the second greatest commandment: "Love your neighbor as yourself" (Matthew 22:39), and it's made clear by the example of Jesus! Jesus became one of us to lift our heaviest burdens. The LORD died and rose again to free us from the weight of sin, the fear of death, and the threat of hell. Jesus blessed us by carrying our heaviest burdens and now calls us to lighten the load of those around us.

My Prayer...

Compassionate Father, help me see the burdens weighing down those around me. Give me wisdom to know how best to respond with help and courage not to put off that help. I want to be a blessing to the broken and discouraged, so please help me find my place and my way of bearing burdens for others, to your glory. In Jesus' name. Amen.

The Thoughts and Prayer on Today's Verse are written by Phil Ware. Questions or comments can be sent to help@verseoftheday.com.© 1998-2026, Heartlight, Inc. Verseoftheday.com is part of the Heartlight Network and is maintained by Infinite Publishing. | Privacy Policy

All scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION. © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan Publishing House.

Disclaimer: Content provided by Heartlight, Inc. is for informational and inspirational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for church, pastoral guidance, or professional counseling. Readers are solely responsible for their use of this material.

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SIMPLE COOKING IDEAS

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Everything you love about enchiladas, minus the fuss! This super flavorful, cheesy vegan enchilada skillet comes together in about 30 minutes with simple methods, minimal dishes, and no need to fill or roll tortillas. 

This easy, nourishing dish features tender cubed sweet potato or winter squash, fiber- & protein-rich black beans, and a rich red enchilada sauce. Everything gets simmered in 1 pan and topped with a melty cashew “cheese” that makes it SUPER satisfying and delicious!

Cheesy Vegan Enchilada Skillet (30 Minutes!) from Minimalist Baker →

1-Bowl Honey Almond Snack Cake (Gluten-Free)
1-Bowl Honey Almond Snack Cake (Gluten-Free)

Honey almond snack cake!? You know you want to jump in on the fun! This GORGEOUS loaf is perfectly moist with a lightly floral flavor and beautiful sponge texture. Bonus? It’s made without gluten or dairy, but no one will know.

It’s the perfect cake for afternoon tea, brunch gatherings, and beyond! Just 10 ingredients, 1 bowl, and simple methods (no mixer) required. Let’s bake!

1-Bowl Honey Almond Snack Cake (Gluten-Free) from Minimalist Baker →

Easy Eggplant Bolognese (1 Pot!)
Easy Eggplant Bolognese (1 Pot!)

When we add another bolognese to the blog (Yes, we already have versions 1, 2, 3, and 4), you know it’s something special! This newest version is made with EGGPLANT, meaning it’s the perfect bolognese for late summer. It’s light yet satisfying, creamy yet bright, and full of bold Italian-inspired flavor — everyone will be asking for seconds!

Even better? It’s a breeze to make — just 1 pot required!

Easy Eggplant Bolognese (1 Pot!) from Minimalist Baker →

Easy Jalapeño Corn Fritters (Vegan)
Easy Jalapeño Corn Fritters (Vegan)

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Not only are they incredibly delicious, but these fritters are vegan, optionally gluten-free, and SO easy to make! Grab your mixing bowl and 10 basic ingredients, and you’ll be enjoying fritters in 30 minutes or less.

Easy Jalapeño Corn Fritters (Vegan) from Minimalist Baker →

RECIPES IDEAS

Pastina Soup

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If you’ve shopped for toys lately, you already know the drill: almost everything blinks, makes loud electronic noises, requires a Wi-Fi connection, or comes attached to an app. As parents, it can feel like a losing battle to find retro gifts that hold a child’s attention without handing them another digital device. Over my 20+...

The post The “Throwback Kid” Gift Guide: 12 Classic Toys & Retro Games Modern Kids Actually Want appeared first on Simply Well Balanced.

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The post Get Kids to Do Chores Without Yelling (A Discipline Coach’s Guide) appeared first on Simply Well Balanced.

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The post 25 Core Memory Family Activities to Do Before Age 12 appeared first on Simply Well Balanced.

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The post 25 Teacher-Approved Open-Ended Toys That Replace Screen Time (Ages 3 to 8) appeared first on Simply Well Balanced.

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The post Stop After School Meltdowns: A Parenting Coach’s 4-Step Reset appeared first on Simply Well Balanced.

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The post Free & Cheap Things to Do at Night with Kids appeared first on Simply Well Balanced.

"I Can Do All Things Through Christ Who Gives Me Strength"