Rick Wilton, a retired healthcare executive and author, has announced the release of his new devotional, "Every Breath," published by Clay Bridges Press. The book addresses the difficult questions that arise when life takes unexpected turns—diagnoses, grief, broken dreams, and seasons of waiting—and offers a message of God's faithfulness even in unwanted circumstances.
Wilton, who spent decades as a healthcare executive before retiring to focus on writing, family, and ministry, draws on his own spiritual journey and professional leadership to craft honest reflections. "Every one of us will eventually face a journey we never would have chosen," said Wilton. "My prayer is that readers will discover they are not walking those roads alone. God is present, He is faithful, and He can use even our hardest seasons to deepen our trust in Him and bring glory to His name."
The devotional does not offer easy answers or superficial encouragement. Instead, it speaks candidly about suffering while pointing readers to hope found in Christ. Each entry invites readers to see how God transforms pain into purpose and uncertainty into deeper dependence. "There is no candy coating in this book," Wilton explained. "I wanted to tell the truth about what it looks like to walk through an unwanted season while holding tightly to God."
Wilton's writing journey began more than fifty years ago when his tenth-grade English teacher recognized his gift. Though he briefly considered journalism in college, life led him elsewhere. "Looking back, I can see God was planting seeds all along," he said. "Now I simply want to use whatever gift He's given me to encourage others to trust Him more deeply." He describes his writing as "inspired by God" and an act of obedience.
Time has been his greatest obstacle as an author. When creativity stalls, Wilton turns to what he calls "mental health and prayer walks." "Every time I step away and spend time with the Lord, He faithfully meets me there," he said.
The impact of this book extends beyond personal encouragement. In a world where many face unexpected challenges, "Every Breath" provides a resource for individuals and faith communities seeking to navigate suffering with honesty and hope. Wilton hopes readers leave with the belief that "no matter what unwanted journey they are facing, God has not abandoned them. He is using every step to shape them into who He created them to be."
Wilton, a native West Virginian and Marshall University graduate, has been married to his wife, Sandy, for more than forty years. He treasures his roles as husband, father to two sons and two daughters-in-love, and grandfather to six grandchildren. When not writing, he enjoys walking, hiking, beach or mountain retreats, and trout fishing.
For aspiring writers, Wilton offers simple advice: "Do the work. Follow the prompting of your heart and the Holy Spirit. Write every day. You never know how God may use your words to encourage someone else."
For more information on Clay Bridges Press, visit claybridgespress.com.
