Person of Character

When hearing the term character we are able to think about it in at least two ways; the first is someone is such a “character”…fun to be with and everyone enjoys his or her personality while the other is he or she is such a person of character. As we live our lives it is fun to be the “character” once in a while; to laugh, joke and giggle about silly behaviors and making wonderful memories. God does not want us going around somber and serious all the time, but He does require us to always be a person of character. What a gift we give our Lord when we begin to imitate and model our attitudes and behaviors after God. We have the joy of speaking in kindness, understanding and love all the while having ethics and morals. With the beginning of the Advent Season let us give our Lord the gift of becoming a person of character that truly does the right thing even when others or society say it is OK to do what you want. Romans 12:2 Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is-His good, pleasing and perfect will. I pray we continue to build our strength, to encourage others, and to grow in wisdom through Bible studies, prayers and Christian fellowship. Smiles & Blessings, Cynthia Collins Kaitfors

Beautiful Sunday

What a great day we have before us…it does not matter whether we enjoyed this past holiday with lots of family and friends or we spent it quietly reading, recuperating or watching television; we have the blessings of God every day. Sometimes it is easy to become self-absorbed or have a pity party due to circumstances beyond our control. It is then we have two choices…one chooses to smile and appreciate what we have or become negative and shout “why me”… We are what we say…and if we continue to be negative and spout complaints…then negative is what we get; on the other hand if we enjoy life in spite of our circumstances then we are open to God’s blessings. So today on this beautiful Sunday I pray we all look at life with joy in our hearts and smiles on our faces. My heart continues to fill with the love of God and overflows to you all and my prayer is we continue to love God through Bible studies, prayers and a Christian fellowship. Hebrews 10:23 Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for He is faithful that promised) Let us go forth with God’s love, the strength and wisdom of Jesus and the amazing miracles of the Holy Spirit. Smiles & Blessings, Cynthia Collins Kaitfors

John 3:16

Today was fun listening to people talk about their shopping experience…They either stayed up late or arrived at the stores very early; many were disappointed that they didn’t achieve their goal of gift buying while others were happy to have survived the shopping with gifts in tow… I found it humorous because years ago my mother and I would have done a little of the very early shopping. I still love to buy gifts, wrap them beautifully and watch the expressions when they are opened. It is a wonderful and fulfilling feeling. Our Lord is forever giving us gifts, some wrapped beautifully and He watches as we open or acknowledge our gift. What pleasure He must receive when we finally turn to Him. I pray as we begin our Advent Season we enjoy the gift giving and receiving but more importantly we remember the Gift from God. John 3:16 For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life. Let’s enjoy this Advent Season as we accept the miracle of Jesus. Smiles & Blessings, Cynthia Collins Kaitfors

Thanksgiving Day

As our day ends and we had an opportunity to share with friends and family I praise the Lord for the bounty of love, fellowship and time spent in laughter. What a gift we receive when joined in the spirit of friendship, family and affection. Praising God for all that we have in our lives is beyond special. I pray that you gave thanks to our Lord whether you spent the time with longtime friends and family or had a relaxing quiet day. As we prepare for the Advent Season let us remember to carry our thankfulness beyond the Thanksgiving Holiday and remember the “reason for the season”… Psalm 13:6 I will sing unto the Lord, because he hath dealt bountifully with me. Rejoice in our God that loves us so much he gave us His Son…God Bless Smiles & Blessings, Cynthia Collins Kaitfors

The Gift

I had the opportunity to speak with someone the other day, which I had not seen or talked with for several years. It was bittersweet but a blessing. It reminded me how important family and friends are. Our lives fly by as we raise our families, move up the corporate ladder and enjoy that precious time off. We tend to look no further than our own backyard and ignoring those who may be in need. This is a time of sharing and thinking of others. I pray we continue to reach out and take care of those that need a hand up. Our Lord loves a cheerful giver…so as we praise our Savior and enjoy fellowship with others let us remember to share our bounty and love with those around us. What better gift is there to know we have brightened someone’s day and lifted their load a tiny bit? We can be the Earthly Angels that touch hearts and build faith. We have God’s blessings and the promise of His love. Psalm 42:5 ...Put your hope in God for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God. Let us lift our voices in song and our arms in praise. Glory be to God! Smiles & Blessings, Cynthia Collins Kaitfors

Handling Disappointments

Unfortunately we all have disappointments in our lives, however the question is…how do we handle it? Are we gracious and understanding or are we harsh and demanding? I was thinking about this as I was remembered a comment I had heard. At first I was a bit miffed and wanted to respond…then I thought about God and wondered…how does He want me to handle it. I then knew being negative only begets negative. So instead of responding in an unconstructive manner I prayed for God to take care of it. Allowing God to help us cope with hurtful comments or actions relieves us of any further damaging conversations. It gives a sense of freedom to walk away and know our lives are being cared for by our Lord. We have opportunities daily to make choices…I pray today we stand aligned with God and hold our tongue when needed and speak of kindness rather than conducting ourselves in an ungodly manner. 1 Corinthians 13:7 Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance. So as we enjoy this week let us become "God like" in our circumstances, our decisions and our behaviors. May God Bless and Keep You! Smiles & Blessings, Cynthia Collins Kaitfors

Rejoice & Sing

Last night many of us enjoyed the first annual Wine Women and Song, a Fresno Women’s Singing Group. What joy it was to listen to great music, watch friends perform, appreciate an excellent meal and revel in the silent auction for our desserts. Following church today I was blessed with a play date with my youngest granddaughter. Although the weather was cool and rainy receiving hugs, singing songs and going for a quick walk with her brought the sunlight into my life. Through many of these simple activities God allows us to see His gifts in action. Last night the women sang like Angels and today my granddaughter giggled with delight as we played hide n seek; which touched my heart with the love of God. It is the simple things in life that bring us joy and fulfillment. I pray we look forward to the Advent season and remember it is not the accumulation of “stuff” but spending time with family and friends that brings happiness, pleasure and contentment. We are fast approaching Thanksgiving and I hope we are all praising God and Jesus for the many blessings we have in our lives. If there is family close and friends available let’s make it a grand time with joyous conversations, family games and walks around the block. Psalm 98:5 Shout with joy to the Lord, all you lands; lift up your voice, rejoice, and sing. As we prepare not only for Thanksgiving but the Advent season let’s show our love for God by our kindness, understanding and mercy toward others. Reach out and hug your family while thanking God for that opportunity. Life is what we make it. Smiles & Blessings, Cynthia Collins Kaitfors

Family & Friends

Sharing our lives with family and friends is one of the ultimate gifts. As the holidays approach we have opportunities to connect with those we haven’t heard from or seen in a long while. Let’s share the joy that comes from bringing family and friends together. In our busy schedules it is easy to become absorbed with the immediate family…as we remember to reach out to our loved ones and close friends I pray we are enjoying a time together that will continue beyond the holidays. Our Lord invites us into His world with open arms…I pray we are doing the same for everyone in our world. Let us follow the path God has for us and join in Christian fellowship with our family and friends. Hebrews 13:5 God has said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” As we approach each new day we can show God’s love by our relationships with family and friends; we demonstrate the love of God by making memories of fun times and special conversations. Life if fragile…life is a gift…let’s share the gift. Smiles & Blessings, Cynthia Collins Kaitfors

Evening Thoughts

My daily devotion has become the evening prayer tonight…but the love of God is as strong at night as He is in the daytime. I hope your blessings through the day were received with thankfulness and joy. I cannot even imagine living one day without our Lord. Our world would be turned upside down and make no sense. I thank God for allowing us to enjoy the opportunities to work, play and help others. Too smile and wish others well, to protect our faith by sharing it with those around us and to look forward to a new day. I pray we have met the challenges that were before us and we go forth tomorrow with a renewed spirit and energy. God give us all we need and Jesus is there for strength and courage. We are blessed by the Holy Spirit and we walk with the inner light of God. Jeremiah 31:17 “There is hope for your future, declares the Lord. I pray we sleep well and wake with joy in our souls… Smiles & Blessings, Cynthia Collins Kaitfors

Speak with Kindness

Life can be challenging at times…we may have financial problems, our health could be in crisis or family members may not be getting along. Negative attitudes and behaviors are contagious and it is important that we curb our tongue and rejuvenate our enthusiasm with positive energy. It is astounding how the spirit of God can fill our thoughts and direct our speech and behaviors. When visiting with a friend who had been at odds with a family member I was inspired as the conversation became positive and optimistic. We are always given choices of whether we want to carry that burden of negativity around or embrace positive thoughts and actions. Following our Lord in love, understanding and compassion for others is a choice. I pray we continue our Bible studies, prayers and Christian fellowship that allow us to grow in a close relationship with God and Jesus. Our lives change and our attitudes and behaviors become gentle, calm and open to a faith that encompasses all that God has planned for us. Proverbs 22: 11-12 He who loves a pure heart and whose speech is gracious will have the king for his friend. The eyes of the Lord keep watch over knowledge, but he frustrates the words of the unfaithful. Let’s keep our thoughts positive, our behaviors honorable and speech encouraging as we follow God’s plan. Remember the sky is the limit…we are heaven bound. Enjoy the miracles of this day. Smiles & Blessings, Cynthia Collins Kaitfors

Amazing Day

Last night I was told by one of my students that I use the word “amazing” a great deal…It surprised me…but then thinking about it she is absolutely right…I find life totally amazing…our God is Amazing…our futures will be amazing… We have the opportunity to make life “amazing” as long as we keep God and Jesus first. Living and loving our lives is honoring God…following His guidelines is respecting our Father. We don’t need the holidays to remind us to be kind, generous and thoughtful, because living by God’s commands we love our neighbor as ourselves and we are not judging or using harsh words. We share the joy of God’s grace and mercy and we experience the love He gives so freely. That is amazing…As we continue through the day let us thank God for His forgiveness and bounty. Hang tight to Jesus in time of need and weakness. I pray we maintain our Bible studies, prayers and Christian fellowship. We are approaching the day of thanksgiving and there is no better time to thank our Lord for our families, friends, health, careers and everyday joys… Let’s not wait for that holiday that encourages thankfulness, but let’s be thankful everyday…Lift your voice in song, raise your hands in praise and kneel in prayer…Let’s serve God with the heart of a child…open and fresh. Ephesians 4:7 Unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ. Go forth and enjoy this “amazing” day. God Bless Smiles & Blessings, Cynthia Collins Kaitfors

Waking to Joy

What a joy to wake…to see the sun shining through a cool morning as our thoughts turn to the day at hand…Whether we are planning for a day of work or a day of leisure we are blessed…through our blessings we can honor God with our attitudes, behaviors and actions. As we go about our day let us remember to give praises and thanks for an opportunity to sever God. It is all about doing the work God has for us…Showing compassion, understanding and consideration to those in our families, work environment and society. I pray we have put on the smile that allows God’s love to shine through us. Being a member of God’s family is the ultimate gift. Let us share His love, mercy and grace as we begin our week. Our Lord is never further than a conversation…He listens…He hears our prayers and His love sustains us through the day. As we pray for those being challenged with disappointments, illnesses or grief let us lift them up to God. Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him and He shall make your paths straight. Delight in God’s mercy, love Jesus and let the Holy Spirit fill your soul. Smiles & Blessings, Cynthia Collins Kaitfors

God's Touch

As Sunday is coming to a close we had the choice whether or not to worship our Lord and Savior… I hope you were healthy and able to enjoy the service of your choosing. My spirit gets rejuvenated and I am ready to begin the week. It is one of the best choices I make. I spend quiet time…noisy time and sporadic time with God everyday…but Sunday is the joyous time in His house. As a little girl I was always reminded to quietly meekly walk into God’s house…it was a time of wonder…I would say to myself, “Just think I am in God’s house”... And God would always touch that little girl’s heart… As an adult I know that we can receive God in all places and my prayer is that God touched your heart today through songs, prayers and scripture. Let’s carry that joy to others as we begin our week. May we show kindness to those having a difficult time, may we share joy with someone’s blessings and may we share the work God has for us throughout the week. 2 Corinthians 13:14 The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all. Go forth with the Love, Grace and Wisdom of God… Smiles & Blessings, Cynthia Collins Kaitfors

Gift of Love

With the holidays fast approaching, our economy still struggling and people without employment times can be stressful. Yet, today I had a look at the generosity of Christian women. Our community held a fund raiser for the Pregnancy Care Center…what a joy to see all the good that was accomplished. It is a blessing to watch Christian ladies in action. We celebrated the gift of life with High Tea…We spent time shopping local venders and participating in the silent auction; then enjoyed tea, finger sandwiches and chocolate. We listened to our speakers and guests give testimony to the care, education and spiritual support they received from this wonderful organization…Listening to their experiences was touching and made you feel blessed to be part of this small community of love. It is all about the babies, parents and God. We are so blessed to have an opportunity to give back. Our Savior leads us, keeps us close and heals our hearts, bodies and souls. When following our Lord we make decisions that have God’s purpose in mind. How can we go wrong when our lives are devoted to God and His commands? Psalm 119:105 Your word is a lamp to my feet and light to my path. Let us continue to show our Christian heart by giving to those in need, praying for those facing difficulties and sharing our time with those who may be alone. There is no greater gift that the gift of love…follow your heart as God will lead you to those who need the extra love... As we pray let us give thanks and rejoice in the blessings of today. Smiles & Blessings, Cynthia Collins Kaitfors

Sky's the Limit

As I was driving to the University today I marveled at the beauty of fall. It made me wonder how anyone could deny God…He has created such splendor not only in our communities, but in each of us. Our Lord God has made every person with gifts, skills and talents. He has set the time for each of us to shine. When we allow God to guide us we are able to reach our potential. When we trust our thoughts, ideas and convictions the sky is the limit… Isn’t that a great saying? “The sky is the limit”…after all it is heaven bound… When we believe in ourselves we believe in God. The thoughts and ideas come from Him…all we have to do is have faith. What a joy to have the wisdom of God and the strength and confidence of Jesus… I pray we are learning to listen, following our hearts and the ideas God has for us… while staying positive as we strive toward our goals. Let’s keep the devil at our back, ignore the negative talk and rejoice in the splendor of our lives. Let us persevere through our trials, challenges and concerns knowing that God is with us. Staying focused with positive attitudes and a pure heart allows the Holy Spirit to fill our souls with His love and mercy. Psalm 32:8 “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will guide you with My eye.” Let us remember the sky is the limit…we are heaven bound with our potential as God is our guide. Smiles & Blessings, Cynthia Collins Kaitfors

Veterans Day

Today is Veterans Day and we have the privilege of thanking all who served in the Armed Forces. It brings my thoughts to my Dad (Navy-WWII), my Uncle Bob (Air Force-Korean War) and many friends (Viet Nam)… What a gift they gave (give) to the people of the United States. We take for granted the freedoms, the luxuries and the abundance in this country. The shame is we become self-indulged with an attitude “it is all about me”… When living the life of a Christian it should be apparent that we keep those in need or in harm’s way in our thoughts and prayers; yet we live a life of over indulged desires and wants. We expect everyone to care about our wishes and aspirations without giving thoughts to others. Let us remember to pray for those in other countries without their families, luxuries and freedoms we experience daily…to ask our Lord to keep them safe, healthy and spiritually strong; make it a prayer of substance and not a fleeting thought… 2 Samuel 22:29 O Lord, You are my lamp. The Lord lights up my darkness. He is a shield for all who look to Him for protection. Our God has protected many and opened His arms to those went home to Him. We as Americans are Blessed and I thank God for those serving in all branches of the Armed Forces as well as the civilians working in those worn torn countries. May God Bless them All. Smiles & Blessings, Cynthia Collins Kaitfors

God's Guidance

As we begin each day I pray we are asking our Lord for guidance, support and confidence. Knowing we have God’s guidance allows us to make wise decisions and follow His path. Feeling His support gives us the strength to endure our stress and challenges and having His confidence brings new experiences with joy and positive attitudes. Growing in faith with a personal relationship with Jesus brings comfort that fills our souls. We see life differently and treat each other with a special attitude and love. Having that “attitude” of faith is joining God and recognizing our strengths and living expectantly. Our Lord has mercy for each of us…He waits patiently for our hearts to open and begin living with trust…to allow God to handle our needs and wants without waking each morning with anxiety and stress. Give negative thoughts and worries to God through prayer and supplication and as you do trust that all your concerns will be heard. God will do what He says He will do. Our Lord is the power, He is the gift and He is the answer. Psalm 62:1-2 My soul finds rest in God alone; my salvation comes from Him. He alone is my rock and my salvation; He is my fortress, I will never be shaken. Let us worship Him and live a life of joy. Smiles & Blessings, Cynthia Collins Kaitfors

Hear God

When the Lord speaks do we hear Him? Are we living our lives in accordance to the commands of God? While reading Hebrews 4:7 “Today if you hear His voice”...I wondered if we would recognize it? What a thought...if our Father is calling us… do we listen...Where is our walk with God and Jesus? Our attitudes and behaviors must leave God shaking His head at times…Our lives are blessed on a daily basis with His love and mercy. Let us go out and make this day a journey of enlightenment…choosing His way…listening for His call. When we are feeling the stress… walk in faith through prayer as God hears our supplications and He will answer. Living with fulfillment, trusting in prayer and receiving God’s love, grace and forgiveness offers the children of God hope and serenity that only come from the Trinity… As we find pleasure in the day let’s continue with our Bible studies, prayers and Christian fellowship. Let’s Choose a life of joy, endure hardships with the strength of Jesus and believe in the miracles of the Holy Spirit Psalm 37:23 The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord, and He delights in his way. I pray we go forth following God’s plan, listening for His word and know He is near. Smiles & Blessings, Cynthia Collins Kaitfors

Freedom n Kindness

How many times have you looked into your closet and wondered what you would wear? Too many times to count right? We are blessed with abundance in the United States and therefore take much for granted. We have the opportunity to believe, to pray or to live a Christian way of life. We have the freedom to decide if we wear a smile or a frown...we have the freedom to speak with kindness or hurt anothers feelings..Again we can walk into that closet of emotions and behaviors and decide who we will be today. I pray we are walking with God and living the life He has planned for us. It is easy to be grouchy when we are down...but it is with the love of Jesus that we encourage ourselves to be strong and positive in order to be the person God knows we can be. Let's keep the devil at our backs and ignore the negative through our prayers and supplications to God. He is our promise and our strength...As we begin each day let us give thanks for the abundance (this does not mean monetary or belongings) in our lives. We have the Father of Creation, the Son of Eternal Life and the Joy of the Holy Spirit. Our cup overflows with love, mercy, grace and the wisdom from God. Psalm 27:1 The Lord is my light and my salvation- whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life- of whom shall I be afraid? As we decide who we shall be today let us remember to choose laughter, joy and smiles...as it is without fear we go forth in a world that can be negative and challenging, but knowing the secret to a joyful life is as close as a prayer. Remember “happy” is fleeting but joy is eternal. Smiles & Blessings, Cynthia Collins Kaitfors

Life n Complications

Sometimes life can be so complicated...Situations arise and we need to respond and react with a heart that is pure and caring; when we would rather voice a negative opinion...It makes me wonder if our behavior is God approved... It should be a no brainer, however we are human therefore have human feelings. I pray when faced with these situations we think before speaking and pray for wisdom. As we approach obstacles that challenge our attitude, disappointments that hurt our feelings and tests that are easily failed by a negative response let us hold tight to Jesus and follow His way. God will lift us up when we are stumbling, He will guide our footsteps and He will not let us walk alone. We are blessed with His compassion, mercy and love. When our lives seem too complicated to understand Jesus is there...when we cry out for help...God hears our cries...When we kneel and pray...the Holy Spirit fills our soul....We are Blessed. Romans 8:18 I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. Let us lift our voices in song...lift our hands with praise and lift our spirits to God the Father and Jesus our Salvation. Let's feel the closeness of the Trinity as we worship, praise and thank God for showing us the way Smiles & Blessings, Cynthia Collins Kaitfors

Peace n Love

Our lives have their ups and downs however it is not if we are up or down, but how we handle those down times that allow us to model our convictions and beliefs. If we are negative and unhappy through those times it is apparent we are not walking close enough to God. We are certainly allowed to have some less than happy thoughts...our hope and prayers are when those times cross our paths we are strong enough that we choose to lean on Jesus and trust the promises of God. He is there during our times of struggle, disappointments or challenges...Let us keep the devil at our backs, keep our focus on the positive and rejoice in the love of God. He is never further than a prayer and we are blessed with His gifts. Let us go beyond just enduring those tough times but let us delight in his love, grace and mercy. We will never be lost as long as we walking with the power of life, the glory of the future and the spirit of miracles. Romans 5:1 Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. I pray we are going forward in those down times with a strong hold and commitment to our Lord and feel the peace He alone can give. Stay aligned with the Trinity through your Bible studies, prayers and Christian fellowship. Smiles & Blessings, Cynthia Collins Kaitfors

Strong Values

Life can be so rewarding...our choices lead us to fulfillment or regret. We are able to decide how we want our day to unfold. Will it be with smiles, compassion and understanding or with gossip, negativity and judgment toward others? As I was out riding my bike...yes, I ventured out today I began thinking about our lifestyles and what we value most. Is it what people (society) deemed as elite and important? Is it leaving a legacy of love, doing the right thing (even when you want to do the opposite) and living a life seen as a Christian. Through our choices are we able to persevere through the tough times, turn toward Jesus with trust and devotion as well as lean on God with prayers? It is a blessing every day to know that His love endures even though society values are weak and change with the tide. Living with values that will not bend with every whim but follows the commands of God allows us to grow strong and bear the fruit God planned for us. I get excited knowing that there is no age requirement, no health requirement and no socioeconomic value that denies anyone from reaching the goals God has for us. God is patient and caring waiting for us to open our eyes, ears and hearts to Him. I pray we are taking a good look at ourselves and made the choice to love thy neighbor, to reach out and help those with needs and pray for our families, friends, state and country. Let us walk with the wisdom of God, the love of Jesus and pray for the Holy Spirit to fill our soul. Joel 2:13 Return to the Lord your God, for He is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love, and He relents from sending calamity. Let us go forth living the life of a strong Christian; pleasing God as we continue with our Bible studies, prayers and Christian fellowship...Rejoice in His love. Smiles & Blessings, Cynthia Collins Kaitfors

Praise God

Today is coming to a close but I must do my daily devotion. Not because it is important to do one each day but because it is my way of saying thank you God for the day. I want to shout out and praise His name. What better way to show our love for Him than telling the world the joy we receive being a follower of Jesus. I am filled with love for our God after talking with my older son on the phone this morning and having such fun and listening to what a wonderful man he has become. God has blessed me with this gift. I am filled with love for our God because of friends and family who go out of their way to make my life comfortable and safe and I am filled with love for God because He fills my soul. God gives us so much and loving Him is so easy. I marvel at His patience, His mercy and His grace...I pray we are following his path and learning through Bible studies, prayer and Christian fellowship that His way is the only way. We are given the gift of eternal life; so as this day comes to an end let us give thanks for all the opportunities that came our way, for the challenges and trials we endured and for the life we have been given. Tomorrow is a new day and a blessing let us rejoice! 2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new. Smiles & Blessings, Cynthia Collins Kaitfors

Victory or Defeat

Today is a day of great wonder. We are allowed to choose our lifestyles, where we want to live and how we treat each other. As we have finished with nasty and negative political ads we can once again begin to settle into a quiet positive world devoid of negative political laundry. It is always an awakening to see what people will do or say to get the outcome they want. No one is out of bounds, nothing is too negative and truth or lies don't matter. You would think in this day and age society would learn that winning at “all” costs is not winning at all. What do we teach our children and the up coming generation about how to live and treat people. When walking with the Lord we have an obligation to follow the commands God has laid down. That means He expects us to be honorable, to show respect and to be gracious to each other. It is easy to get caught up in the negativity...to gossip...to judge...or to demean another...yet as a child of God we have a responsibility to live according to God's rules. Our lives can bring joy, comfort and encouragement to those around when we choose to live in love. We don't always have to agree with each other however we do not need to belittle someone, call names or label them because of their different ideals. God knows our hearts and will be the judge of our lives. He alone knows the outcome. Our job is to be the best He has for us. I pray as we go forth this day that we are following the path God has for each of us and that the way we choose to live is one of honor. We live in victory with Jesus as He laid down His life for us so we may live with Grace and Mercy. Ephesians 4:29, 30-31-Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger,brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one anther, forgiving each other, just as In Christ God forgave you. We win when society chooses to walk the road of Honor, Kindness, Generosity and Mercy. Smiles & Blessings, Cynthia Collins Kaitfors

Love God

It is common to hear “I believe in God” and it is also common to hear “I trust God”, however how often do we hear “I love God”...When listening to a song a while ago that stated “I love God with all my heart and soul... it made me think. Loving God means we have a personal relationship with Him and nothing could be more sweet than being in relationship with God and Jesus. Allowing Him in our lives with a personal investment... Not just a Sunday church service or Sunday school once in awhile kind of relationship...but living moment to moment, every day, on going true relationship with our Creator and Savior. Being in prayer with our soul entrenched with the power of the Holy Spirit and feeling the surge of love pulsate through our being is an experience we should be striving towards. God dwells not only in the saints like Mother Teresa but in everyday people like you and me. I pray we are following the path of God and His commands while demonstrating our love for Him. When we are in service for God we are showing our love, when we are doing for others with nothing to gain we are showing our love and when our life is filled with compassion and understanding for family, friends or strangers we are showing our love. Let us go about our days “in love” with God and Jesus...showing the world how amazing and extraordinary life is as a Christian. We are not without challenges, trials or temptations, however we live with the strength and wisdom of God and have the devil at our backs. Ephesians 1:7-8 He is so rich in kindness and grace that He purchased our freedom with the blood of His son and forgave our sins. He has showered His kindness on us. Along with all wisdom and understanding. Living life with the inner glow of God Smiles & Blessings, Cynthia Collins Kaitfors

Steps of Growth

I was watching television the other day and at the beginning of a commercial was the sentence “Every climb is not planned”...all of a sudden it hit me... all our growth in life is not planned. When we are being pruned it most obviously is not something we chose. At some points in our lives we may find ourselves without a job, single, in financial need or with health issues none of which was our own choosing... Isn't life wonderful, however when making the climb it is imperative that we walk in faith. Many times we put blame where there should be no blame. It is just life. We may be at the mercy of others...their decisions may impact our lives or our health may be vulnerable and we once again are making that climb. The astonishing results create the person God wants us to be. Without growth and pruning we would stay the same. It is a blessing that God cares enough to ensure our transformation into the person He planned before our birth. I sometimes laugh at the steps I have had to take and joke with God...asking couldn't you have just asked me to change with out all the headache or heartache.. :) Yet, knowing me...I needed the wake up call that I received to become the person that now devotes my time and service to God. It is with joy that we can offer our lives to Him through our behavior, attitudes and discipline. Our lives are precious and valuable. Let's use our time to do God's will and to ensure that our families know God and Jesus. Our paths are open to us...we have free will...let's keep the devil at our backs, make the climb with God and reach the level of success our Lord has planned. We are filled with joy that comes from the Holy Spirit, we find strength in our weakest moments from God and we feel the love of Jesus in our climb. 1 Corinthians 1:5 In every way you were enriched in Him in all speech and all knowledge. Make the climb with a smile and trust in the path God has for you. Smiles & Blessings, Cynthia Collins Kaitfors