Breakthrough isn’t something you force or manufacture — it’s something you receive when your heart is finally ready to hold it. And maybe that’s what this season has been about. Not punishment, but preparation. Not God withholding, but God refining. Getting you ready for what he has been holding.

As May begins, don’t enter it with the same heaviness you’ve been carrying. Enter it with gratitude for how far you’ve come, with faith for what’s ahead, and with the trust that God hasn’t forgotten about you. He’s been working behind the scenes, and this will be the month you finally see it.

God,

I’m declaring that May is my month of breakthrough. I’ve been holding on, and I am asking you to let this be the month where everything finally shifts. The month where doors that have been closed for too long finally open. The month where prayers I’ve been praying for years finally get answered. The month where I see the fruit of what I’ve been planting.

Break through every obstacle that has been blocking my progress. Break through the confusion that has been clouding my clarity. Break through the fear that has been holding me back. Break through the delays that have made me question your timing. Let this be the month where what felt stuck finally starts moving.

God, I don’t want to leave May the same way I entered it. I want my life to be a testimony. I want to experience breakthrough in my finances, in my relationships, in my purpose, in my peace. Let this month be marked by divine intervention, and blessings I didn’t see coming.

Let May be the month it happens, God.

Amen.

That feeling of a heart breaking over endings can make everything feel heavy, like you’re carrying it alone. Sometimes, all we can do is open ourselves slowly to God’s presence and let it guide us through the waves, trusting that healing comes in its own time. Pray this with me and feel His comfort.

Dear God,

I come to you today with a broken heart. I am feeling the weight of many endings and struggling to find the strength to fully experience this grief while still appreciating the beauty of the present moment. Please create space in my heart to receive your divine comfort. Help me discover the unexpected blessings hidden within this pain. Thank you for being with me during this challenging season—my heart feels safe knowing you are protecting me through every wave of sorrow. I trust in your promise that you will restore me completely in your perfect timing.

Amen.

This piece was written by Rebecca Simon. Her newest release, Finding God Every Day: 111 Devotionals For Women Healing Through Faith, gives you 111 daily reflections like this one. Her best-seller, Let Go, Trust God, has helped thousands lean into the same truths. Grabbing a copy keeps her writing going and helps Thought Catalog keep publishing it.

This story is from the early 1990s. Gayle had been married to attorney William Bumpus since 1982. In 1990, she walked in on him having an affair with one of her own close friends. The only person she told at first was Oprah. The divorce was finalized in 1993.

Around that time, the National Enquirer ran a cover story claiming the marriage ended because Gayle and Oprah were secretly together. Gayle, now newly single and trying to date, asked Oprah to use her show to kill the rumor directly. Oprah said no. She didn’t want to dignify the tabloids by responding to them.

Oprah had been with Stedman Graham since 1986. Gayle was the one trying to get a Saturday night date in New York while the country thought she was Oprah’s girlfriend.

She told Alex Cooper on Call Her Daddy this week that the rumors still circulate and she’s finally stopped caring. “As long as I feel good about what I’m doing, and the people I respect and trust are okay with it, otherwise you’ll drive yourself nuts.”

Settling doesn’t just keep you from what God has for you — it keeps you trapped in a version of your life that was never meant to be permanent. You stay in the wrong relationship because leaving feels harder than staying. You stay in the misaligned job because starting over feels scarier than being unfulfilled. You accept breadcrumbs because a full table feels too far away. And every time you settle, you’re not just saying no to God’s best, you’re saying yes to a life that will never fully satisfy you.

God,

I’ve been settling. I know I have. Settling for relationships that drain me because I’m afraid of being alone. Settling for opportunities that don’t align with my purpose because I’m scared nothing better will come. Settling for less than what you have for me because I’ve convinced myself that “good enough” is all I deserve.

But today, I’m asking you to break that pattern. Give me the courage to walk away from what’s comfortable but wrong. Give me the strength to say no to what doesn’t serve the life you’re calling me into. Help me stop lowering my standards out of fear, loneliness, or impatience.

God, remind me that you didn’t bring me this far to settle. You didn’t heal me, grow me, and refine me just so I could accept mediocrity. What you have for me is better than what I’ve been holding onto. So help me let go. Help me trust that walking away from good enough is making space for more than I could ask or imagine.

I refuse to settle anymore. I’m waiting for your best, God. Show me how good it can get.

Amen.

Leos innately know how to overcome every obstacle they face. They have some of the brightest personalities, and positive thinking comes naturally to them. These fire signs are the walking, talking definition of inspiration. They’re not afraid to dream big. So, it’s no shock why they’re considered the royalty of the zodiac. They know how to build a castle with the bricks thrown at them.

Aquarius

Aquarius is a powerful air sign because they insist on marching to the beat of their own drum. Known as the visionaries of the zodiac, they don’t follow trends; they create them. Not a stickler for rules, freedom of expression is a covenant to this air sign. Their individuality is their prized possession. Aquarius is also known to be the people’s champion. Wherever they end up in life, they will always be devoted to the needs of others.

Scorpio

Scorpios have so much power because it’s all or nothing with them. They go big or go home. Though emotional and sensitive, they use these qualities to their advantage. They’re the water sign constantly ending up in high places. Whether they have their eyes set on a career or a love interest, they won’t hesitate to pursue what they want. The sign comes with a lot of intensity they can distribute appropriately to take them far.

Capricorn

Capricorns are determined and ambitious. Accomplishment will forever be the first thing on their mind. Sure, they’re stable, but the fact that they dare to achieve more makes them a force to be reckoned with. They’re decisive, structured, and brilliant. They’ll always know how to correct a situation if things go wrong. 

April

People who arrived in April, you’ve always been a warrior at heart, a trailblazer. This May, your fiery spirit is reigniting, burning brighter than ever. You’re not just bouncing back; you’re launching forward with a vengeance. Imagine yourself as a comet blazing across the night sky—unstoppable, unyielding. You’re reclaiming your power, not to settle scores, but to show the world (and yourself) that nothing can dim your flames. Get ready to rewrite your story, with every step a defiant dance in the face of challenges.

November

Oh, those born in November, masters of resilience, you’ve walked through emotional fires and emerged unscathed. This May is your time to rise like a phoenix. Your journey is not about retaliation; it’s about rebirth, about transforming past pains into powerful lessons. Visualize yourself shedding old skins, emerging with a renewed, fierce grace. You’re not just returning; you’re evolving, turning every setback into a stepping stone towards a future where you are the unchallenged author of your fate.

January

January natives, you’re always climbing, always enduring. This May, your relentless spirit is taking a bold turn. You’re not just climbing; you’re conquering new heights with a renewed sense of purpose. Think of every challenge you’ve faced as a part of the mountain you’ve been scaling. Now is the time to stand at the summit, to look back at the path you’ve traversed with a smirk. Your revenge is not loud or brash; it’s in the quiet satisfaction of proving that nothing could stop your ascent.

Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.

Matthew 5:4

We are all grieving in some manner—whether it’s the passing of a loved one, a chapter closing, a job ending, a past version of ourselves, an identity, or the weight of sin. The pain is unbearable at times, gripping us tightly, coloring every moment of our days, preventing us from being present.

It may seem counterintuitive to see beauty emerging from periods of mourning. However, God draws closest to those who are brokenhearted—it is in our moments of deep weakness and despair that God reveals Himself fully to each of us. Within the mourning process, we experience profound spiritual growth, discovering our inherent strength to overcome life’s greatest challenges. Rather than seeking momentary pleasure or numbing our pain, grief teaches us to feel each emotion fully, to not avoid sorrow but move through it with purpose.

The comfort God promises is both immediate and eternal—divine consolation now in the midst of our pain, and complete restoration later. This assurance showcases God’s tender love for the brokenhearted throughout the entire journey of grief, transforming our mourning into an unexpected blessing.

Rebecca Simon‘s readers keep coming back. Her best-selling Let Go, Trust God set the tone, and Finding God Every Day: 111 Devotionals For Women Healing Through Faith extends it into a daily practice. If you found something to hold onto in this article, picking up one of her books is the best way to support her work and our small team at Thought Catalog.

Aries is the alpha of the zodiac. They love being number one at what they do and taking the lead in any group setting, so that’s probably why these fire signs might look like a tough cookie to crack. Don’t get me wrong, Aries are very strong people who know how to overcome obstacles. But if you know and love one, you also know that they can be emotional, romantic, and a bit sensitive.

Capricorn

Capricorns have a knack for putting on a brave face because they find it difficult to express their feelings. So, on the surface, they may look cold and hard to impress. But if your best friend or partner is one, you know all too well how warm and soft-hearted they can be. When these earth signs are comfortable, they’re empathetic, kind, and the sweetest person you’ll ever meet.

Leo

Leos care about their image a lot. So, if they were having a bad day or going through a rough time, you wouldn’t notice. Like its fellow fire signs, they have trouble admitting when they feel down, so that’s why they look like they can handle anything. I mean, yes, Leos are strong individuals with a knack for surviving and thriving. But if you know one well, you know their ability to be sensitive and super sentimental too.

Taurus

For the most part, Taurus is cool, calm, and collected. They know how to conduct themselves and their emotions quite well—a little too well. Like Capricorns, they find it hard to express how they feel, so it can seem like nothing ever hurts their feelings. But if you’re close to one, you know how romantic they can get. You know how nurturing and trustworthy they are.

Scorpio

Though water signs are automatic softies, Scorpio shows that side to them a little less. They are emotionally charged by the circumstance of their situations, which can morph them into someone cold and tough and isn’t very easy to please. But if you know and love one, you know that’s not who they are. To you, they’re the most supportive and honest people you know.

Virgo

Virgos are straight-faced people. They’re hard to read and aren’t very good at telling anyone how they feel, so that makes the rest of us believe that they’re always okay. But if they’re your best friend or relative, you know that’s not the case. Like their opposite, Pisces, they can be emotional. Virgos are one of the sweetest people in the world. When you’re close to them, they become a great support system and someone always willing to help. 

Basking in luxury, Tauruses are known for their wealth. They’re hard workers who constantly aim higher but never forget about leisure. These earth signs know how to enjoy their cash. The more they do, the more they attract. They see their careers as gateways to living lavish lifestyles.

Libra

Libras’ social abilities can take them far in life. They know how to approach almost anyone. They’re confident when speaking and charming enough to become friends with everyone in the room — including the “important” people. They’re known to have friends in high places.

Leo

Ambitious, confident, and a big dreamer, Leo attracts a lot of wealth because of who they are. Not one to ever give up, Leo can work as hard as an earth sign and network as much as an air sign. They exude confidence when they walk into a room, attracting the right individuals.

Aries

Aries is a risk-taker who’s brave and determined. A lot of money comes to Aries because they’re willing to do whatever it takes to get it. The fire sign doesn’t hesitate to pursue what they want. They exceed expectations, are social enough to meet the right people, and know how to maintain a positive outlook.

Sagittarius

Known to be lucky in life, Sagittarius has the mindset and the people skills that usually grant them a comfortable income. In fire sign fashion, they’re willing to spill blood, sweat, and tears working toward their goals. They’re intelligent, open-minded, and have the wisdom to carry on regardless of what challenges come their way.

Aries will give you butterflies instantly. From the talking stage to dating, this fire sign truly knows how to make you feel like you’re the only girl in the world. They will want to know everything about you and invite you to all the places they’ll be. Innately caring, these signs can make their partners blush with their high levels of tender loving care.

Taurus

From fancy restaurants to their affectionate ways, Taurus knows how to turn up the romance. With this earth sign, you’ll feel the butterflies over time in a slow and natural way. At first, things may feel civil and casual. But as time goes by, you’ll start to see hints of the romantic legend this sign is known to be. They’ll remember important dates, talk to you about life for hours, and take care of you every step of the way.

Gemini

When these air signs set their sights on you, they’ll make you feel like your voice matters. Other than them being attracted to how smart you are, these signs will also be mesmerized by your opinions, intellect, and your wicked sense of humor. Their support for you will make you blush. You’ll feel refreshed by their zest for life and all the ways you’ll feel seen and recognized.

Cancer

Cancers are one of the sweetest signs of the zodiac. So, they’re bound to give you butterflies with every single one of their romantic gestures. Not only are they more than willing to take care of you, but they’ll also make you feel cherished and loved like never before. These crabs are known to provide strong emotional support, so don’t be surprised if you’re constantly blushing by the way they make you feel validated.

Leo

Leos are known pros at giving anyone butterflies. They are romantic and extravagant and constantly wear their hearts on their sleeve. From the moment you meet, these lions will be more than willing to give their undivided attention. You won’t have to think twice if they’re interested because they’ll already be showering you with compliments, gifts, and quality time.

Virgo

Virgos are chivalrous. So, they’ll be the one that holds the door for you, pay the bill, and even be the designated driver on the nights they need to be. It’s not hard to get butterflies with this earth sign. They know how to take care of the people they love and are always ready to lend a helping hand. They’re also good listeners and can make anyone feel heard.

Libra

If anyone knows how to give immediate butterflies, it’s Libras. The kings and queens of love and relationships, these air signs can sweep you off your feet with one look, word, and touch. Natural flirts, Libras are generous with their compliments and attention. Even just a minute spent with this group can make you feel like you’re on cloud nine. They’ll know how to make you feel special, so don’t be surprised if you find yourself constantly blushing around them.

Scorpio

With an all-or-nothing mindset, Scorpios will make you blush at how much they’re willing to do for you. Known to go to great lengths for their partners, they’re the kind of signs that are most likely to make a good impression on the first date. From buying dozens of bouquets to being there when you need them the most, you can expect a butterfly overload with these water signs.

Sagittarius

From the chase to dating, when you catch a Sagittarius’ eye, they will make you the center of their world. You’ll be swept off your feet by the way they’ll always include you in their plans. With wholehearted confidence and optimism, this fire sign will sing to the mountain tops to tell the world that they’re yours. They’ll shower you with gifts and time, making all of the butterflies in you feel like they’re all over the place.

Capricorn

Capricorns are the dedicated type. So, although they’re more prone to slow burn connections, they don’t hold back either when it’s time to turn up the love. Like the rest of their fellow earth signs, you’ll feel well taken care of. They’ll make you swoon with their impeccable memory and their ability to attend to all of your needs. With the goat, it’s all about goals and reaching for the stars. So, they really won’t mind being your constant motivator as well.

Aquarius

Being the unique being they are, Aquarius will give you butterflies through their creativity. You’ll know they like you when you’re the one that got their creative juices flowing. So, it’s a no-brainer that each one of their romantic gestures is bound to sweep you off your feet in no time. From writing a song about you to texting you the sweetest messages, this air sign knows how to make any girl blush.

Pisces

One of the most romantic signs on this list, Pisces will give you butterflies through their words, sentimental gifts, and quality time. Known to write love letters to their significant other, this water sign will make you blush at how much they can remember every detail about you. Great listeners and even better partners, these fish can turn your life into a modern-day fairy tale.