Confront Challenges with Trust

For those of us that are blessed with family our hearts burst with pride and love. We have been given such opportunities…to watch our children grow, to share the love with extended family and see the love of God in our children. It makes me wonder how God must feel about us. He watches us grow, we share His love with our extended family and become strong in our faith. Hopefully along the way His heart bursts with pride and joy for us, His children. As we now pursue a life filled with the calling God has for each of us we are able to begin this New Year with resolutions that are easily met and completed. We are choosing to be proactive in our spiritual life and model to our families the commands of God. Life can be joyful and inspiring when walking with our Lord. We will still be challenged with the stresses of life, health problems or financial needs; however when we meet these challenges with the trust and belief in God and Jesus we are able to not only endure but rise above these tests. Psalm 112: 7-8 He is not afraid of bad news; his heart is firm, trusting in the LORD. His heart is steady; he will not be afraid. Today is a delight…no matter the situation…I pray we thank God for the day…smile and spread the good news…We are loved by a God who is generous, gracious and merciful. We have been given the precious gift of Jesus. Smiles & Blessings, Cynthia Collins Kaitfors

Change Begins Today

Here comes the New Year…Have you made those never ending New Year’s Resolutions? What do you most want to change…your relationships…, your profession or your body image…how about your spiritual life? I always wonder why we wait until the New Year to make any changes in our daily lives…let’s begin today with an early resolution to grow in faith, to be a more loving family member and friend as well as do the work God has planned for us. Choose to listen for the inner voice of God, to be positive in our challenges, to support those around us and to love unconditionally. What a joy our world would be when we walk with the love of Jesus. As we prepare for the New Year…beginning today…reach out to those around you and shine for God. Speak with kindness; go out of your way for someone and pray for our community and world. Ephesians 3:16-18 I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. As we begin our New Year decisions today I pray we build our faith through prayers, continued Bible studies and the joys of Christian fellowship. Let us proclaim God’s love through our trust, belief and witness. Smiles & Blessings, Cynthia Collins Kaitfors

Grace, Peace & Tranquility

For many shortly after Christmas Day the decorations are taken down and the tree is either put away or set outside…and as some say, “Get the house back to normal”…but for those of us who totally enjoy the wonder of Christmas and God’s blessings taking down the decorations happens around January 6th (Epiphany) and always with a sad face. The Christmas Season is a time of joy, happiness and family…why doesn’t all this goodness follow us through the year? Why is it when we “get back to normal” the ordinary days become mundane or less attractive? What is missing? God and Jesus are missing. It isn’t about decorations, music and gifts…it is about the love God has for us and the gift of Salvation. He has blessed us with life ever after…Knowing this allows us to live our lives with grace, peace and tranquility even through the tough times. So if life is a time of rushing, stress and schedules our approach to this marvelous miracle is neglected. Let’s live life with the appreciation and thankfulness of the new day; with the gift of life that goes beyond “back to normal.” I pray we are thanking God for each new day…for the miracle of Jesus…and the love we feel through the Holy Spirit. Psalm 16:8 I keep the LORD in mind always, because He is at my right hand, I will not be shaken. As we go through our week let us remember to praise God, Love our Lord and receive the Holy Spirit. Smiles & Blessings, Cynthia Collins Kaitfors

Active & Loving Christian

As we look forward to the New Year and all the blessings headed our way we also give ourselves that good old “self-talk” that motivates and inspires us for the coming year. This is a good thing…we want to improve over last year and become a better person…maybe a thinner person…maybe a nicer person or maybe a healthier person. When thinking about our New Year improvements do we add being a better Christian? Do we decide to love God more…follow His commands with more devotion…join a Bible based church…attend church regularly…or become an active and loving member of Jesus Christ’s family. We live in such a secular world that improving our Christian lives may be put on the back burner. So as we approach 2011…let’s put being a loving and active member of God’s family on the front burner and prepare for the most incredible year yet. Psalm 121:7-8 The LORD shall preserve you from all evil; He shall preserve your soul. The LORD shall preserve your going out and your coming in from this time forth, and even forever more. Knowing that God protects us is the blessing of the day and every day. Let us show our love by continuing our spiritual growth through Bible studies, constant prayers and enjoying Christian fellowship with family and friends. Smiles & Blessings, Cynthia Kaitfors

Christmas Continues

As we enjoy the afterglow of Christmas Eve and Christmas Day whether it was quietly or joyously celebrated let us praise God for the most precious gift. Many times it is easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of gift giving, shopping and preparing that special meal; that we neglect the real reason for this celebration. What a delight and honor to kneel down and thank Jesus for being the answer to our Salvation. As we continue to live our lives let’s make sure we have unwrapped our gift and use it daily through prayers, thankfulness and Bible study. This is the ultimate gift and through our faith does this gift flourish and grow in our daily lives. God continues to bless us with His love and forgiveness so let’s unwrap our gift and receive the miracles. As we prepare for Epiphany during the twelve days of Christmas we have the opportunity to teach our children and family members that Christmas is not over on the December 25th but has just begun. We have those wonderful twelve days that the Magi (Wise Men) followed the star where they found Mary holding Baby Jesus...they bowed and worshipped this child of God and then presented their gifts. Psalm 40:5 Many, O LORD my God, are the wonders you have done. The things you planned for us no one can recount to you; were I to speak and tell of them they would be too many to declare. Rejoice in the wonders of Jesus, His Love and His Gift. Smiles & Blessings, Cynthia Collins Kaitfors

Ultimate Gift

This is the time of year that children are waiting with anticipation and excitement…they are counting the hours before that ever awaited time that begins the festivities…opening gifts, enjoying the family and remembering the birth of Christ. It makes me wonder what Mary and Joseph were thinking before the birth of their first son…God’s Son…Where they counting down the hours with anticipation and excitement…was Mary afraid and apprehensive? As any new mother it would make sense that she was somewhat apprehensive. Yet, she had the knowledge from the Angels that when her son was born He will enlighten our lives with Joy…Love…and Salvation. We can only imagine the love she felt and the honor that blessed her and Joseph. Talk about ultimate gifts…Wow! As we prepare for this very important occasion let us thank God for all we have…Share the joy with family and friends as we worship in church, read the most amazing story from the Bible and sing praises with carols. Luke 2:10-11 The Angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; He is Christ the Lord. As we praise God for the ultimate gift let us raise our arms in praise and bow in prayer as we sing out our blessings. Merry Christmas Smiles & Blessings, Cynthia Collins

A Fresh Perspecitve

A new day always brings a fresh perspective and renewed hope. The Glory of God is truly amazing…When we think life is too challenging, struggles are too difficult or the burdens are overwhelming God gives us a new day. We are rejuvenated with hope, our spirits are lifted and our outlook is positive. What a blessing that is given to each of us as we grow in faith and trust with our hearts. As we prepare for this new day let us praise God for lifting our burdens and refreshing our spirits. Only through our Lord are we able to accomplish all that He has planned for us. We are filled with His Grace as we walk in His path and hold tight to His hand. Jesus understands our needs and blesses us with His love. Going forth with the inner glow of God and the knowledge that He walks before us allows us to proceed with the confidence and strength to complete our service of the day. So let us listen for His word, pray with an eager heart and trust; God is never further than our quiet conversation with Him. Ephesians 3:17-19 And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge –that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. What a joy to know God’s love and blessings….Enjoy this new day! God Bless. Smiles & Blessings, Cynthia Collins

Feel His Love

At this time of year more than any other time we want everything to run smoothly. . It seems just when we believe all is well with the world something else crops up and another stressor has been added to life. We have this idea that just because it is the holidays our troubles, concerns and difficulties should vanish. However the illnesses, financial troubles and relationship issues do not disappear just because it is Christmas. So what do we do when faced with this dilemma? We trust God. We continue to lean on Him with our arms out stretched. Let’s remember that our Lord has the power to ease our minds, heal our bodies and lift our spirits. I pray as we all prepare for this very special holiday we give our pain, our doubts and our sadness to God. He knows our hearts and needs...He is in control. It does not matter that we feel weak and vulnerable…Our Lord is there through a simple prayer and quiet conversation. Today I pray we have the courage to reach out to Jesus, the confidence to believe and the wisdom to trust. 1 Peter 5:5-6 Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that He may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you. We are blessed with this day…let God bring the light into your soul as we feel His love. Smiles & Blessings, Cynthia Collins

Pray for Family

A friend sent an email asking if I need space on the ark he is building…yes, our community is being soaked, yet as our summers, fall and spring can be very dry I am enjoying the change of weather. But just to be on the safe side I did reserve small room with a view… :) Many times throughout our lives we are challenged with life…whether it is our health, financial struggles, relationships or the weather. As we go through them…it is how we handle the challenges not what the challenge is. We can become negative, grouchy and verbal or grouchy and silent, never the less our responses affect our spirit as well as those around us. We have opportunities daily to show our love for God. When dealing with problems let’s reach out to Him and receive the power only He can give. I pray as we are approaching the Blessed Birth of Jesus we are thankful for all that is in our lives. Let’s pray for our family members living in others states or deployed as well as reminiscing about our family members who have died. Proverbs 25:11 A word aptly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver. Let us rejoice in our Savior Jesus and sing out in praise. Smiles & Blessings, Cynthia Collins

Gift is Free

During this time of year everyone is scurrying to and fro looking for that perfect gift. We go through all the ads, run from store to store or sit in front of the computer and search online to make sure our family and friends have that one of kind gift that makes their day. We look forward with anticipation and eagerness for that much awaited smile when they open it.. . I am wondering if we put the same amount of work, research and anticipation when preparing our family for birth of Christ. Our gift from God is “free”…all we have to do is open our arms and hearts to receive the most precious gift of all. We are blessed with His love and grace and a future that is beyond our understanding. Let us remember to accept His gift with love, devotion and faithfulness. We have an opportunity to bring joy into the hearts of family with our love for God. As we demonstrate God’s love and gentleness to those around us we are smiling, understanding and forgiving. I pray we go beyond just buying gifts but we show His love with the heart of Jesus…compassionate, merciful and full of love. 1Corinthians 13:7 (Love) always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Enjoy our Christmas Season as prepare for the blessings of Jesus. Smiles & Blessings, Cynthia Collins

Day Off

Today was a day off…what a laugh…what do we do on our days off…work, shop, clean and so many other chores. So basically today I did not see any students or correct any papers…which of course are still waiting for me since the classes are finished and grades are due on Monday. Yet, it was a joy and a delight to visit with a girlfriend, have lunch out and do a little Christmas shopping. We are consistently on the go and as I began my daily devotion and the sun was going down I realized I am behind schedule (again). It is fantastic to know that no matter how busy we get God is never too busy for us. As we are scurrying to complete all our tasks and baking for Christmas (if you still do this) I hope we do not forget those in need and what the most important part of our holiday is. Take time throughout your day and prepare your heart for the Lord. When feeling frazzled and stressed remember Jesus will give us the strength to overcome any and all negative feelings. I pray we are putting our lives on the right track, following the commands of God and promising to do the work that God has given us. Let’s enjoy this holiday as we not only love our family but we love our neighbor as ourselves. 1 Thessalonians 5:13-14 Live in peace with each other, and we urge you, brothers, warn those who are idle, encourage the timid, help the weak, be patient with everyone. Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always try to be kind to each other and to everyone else. Let’s rejoice with the gift and miracle of Jesus and live our lives as imitators of God. Smiles & Blessings, Cynthia Collins

Everyday Miracles

At times we can be overwhelmed with stressors that try to steal our joy…yet when we look at our lives and appreciate all the “everyday” miracles we know that we are blessed. As we go about our day it is amazing how much we take for granted. We have friends that go out of their way to help, opportunities arise we weren’t expecting or we just feel good with little to no aches or pains. What a blessing to know that we have a God that loves us whether we are smiling or struggling with that smile. Many times during the Holidays it is more difficult to appreciate all those little miracles…yet today let’s relish in the fact that we are where we should be, doing what God has planned and seeking to serve Him with our lives. Let God lift us up, ease our burdens and rejuvenate our spirits. He has given us the greatest miracle, Jesus. So as we go about our lives with all our everyday miracles remember to praise God for our Salvation and the Light of the world. Psalm 30:11-12 You…clothed me with joy, that my heart may sing to You and not be silent. O Lord my God, I will give You thanks forever. We live in a world of miracles…Praise God. Smiles & Blessings, Cynthia Collins Kaitfors

Wisdom and Joy

As we go about our day let us praise God’s love. If it has been a day of tests…struggles and challenges…let us praise His name for the strength to endure such a day. If it has been a day of wonder and surprises…let us praise His name for the glory of His wisdom and joy. We are blessed and it is a delight to walk with Him and receive His love, mercy and forgiveness. He knows our hearts and understands our needs…through prayer and conversation we are able to share that special time. So as we continue through our hectic and busy life let’s remember to thank our Lord for the gift of today. Praising God and Jesus Christ is a privilege and an amazing opportunity to give thanks for all we have. When feeling down He lifts us up…When feeling jubilant He fills our soul with joy… Psalm 98:5 Shout with joy to the Lord, all you lands; lift up your voice, rejoice, and sing. Let us go forth with love in our hearts and joy in souls as we continue growing in faith through Bible studies, Christian fellowship and prayers. Smiles & Blessings, Cynthia Collins Kaitfors

Father's...Dad's...

As the anniversary of my father’s death nears I am reminded how he touched our lives. My brothers and I were each given different sets of rules…boys’ sports and outside chores and the girl inside chores and dance lessons. From the beginning we were taught to hone our skills and prepare for our futures. When growing up we didn’t understand the sacrifices our parents made in order for each us to achieve our goals. My Dad went off to work each day without complaints, did the best he could with his opportunities and enjoyed being a father. He brought laughter, song (he had a great voice) as well as love and compassion into our home each day. As he struggled with tough economic times he never once denied his children the joys of family blessings and the gifts of education. As a grown daughter it is sad to think it takes a life time, children of my own and his death to appreciate all his efforts. As children we expect our parents to be perfect and yet that is not possible… As my faith has grown so has my compassion, understanding and appreciation of life and the gifts given to each child; as I reminisce and recall my childhood I thank our Lord for an earthly father , who loved and cared for his family and a heavenly Father who blessed me with such amazing parents. Deuteronomy 5: 16 Honor your father and your mother, as the Lord your God has commanded you, so that you may live long and that it may go well with you in the land the Lord your God is giving you. I pray that we continue to thank God for our parents…for families… and the sacrifices each made. Smiles & Blessings, Cynthia Collins Kaitfors

To Serve or Be Served

When spending time with friends, sharing the responsibilities with a colleague or reading a book to a child is a gift. We are given many choices as how to live…we can be of service to others or expect others to serve us. I am perplexed by those who believe they should be placed above serving others. When talking about foot washing many years ago, I remember an acquaintance, who thought washing another’s foot was disgusting, where as many others believed it is the ultimate gift…that we would kneel to someone and wash their feet. If it wasn’t beneath Jesus how could it be anything but a joy to imitate Him. Now I am not saying we have to go around washing others feet, however we could offer help in many ways. We have so many friends and neighbors that are in need. Let us go beyond our comfort zone and reach out to those in our community. Continue helping others and show the love of God …I am inspired when I hear someone had paid for the customer behind them when paying their own bill or the friend who offered to cook, clean or drive an ailing friend to a needed destination and the friend who actually paid another’s rent and health insurance. These are all ultimate gifts and fill our soul with joy. Let’s be imitators of our dear Lord and Savior and give the ultimate gift…Love, Kindness, Compassion and Healing through prayers and deeds. As we follow the path God has plowed for us, we are blessed to offer others the richness of God and Jesus Christ. James 1:5 If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given to him. God gives each of us the skills and abilities to serve…seek His wisdom to know how to help, praise His strength as we continue to help and rejoice in His mercies for the blessings of service. Smiles & Blessings, Cynthia Collins Kaitfors

Reach Out To Him

What a joy to be a child of God. To know He is always with us and when things get tough all we have to do is reach out to Him through prayer and quiet conversation. As the Lord guides our lives, lights our paths and opens doors… we have the opportunity to praise Him and value the blessings that are before us. Trusting Him through the challenges and choosing to be positive assures us that our outcomes with be filled with God’s blessings and joy. It is through our struggles that we find our strength as God will lift us up and carry us out of the muck and mire. In our economic challenges that face our nation and families… let’s pray for our brothers and sisters that deal with the hardships of little or no work, labor through health issues and feel overwhelmed or depressed. Through our prayers and God’s mercy we will see the miracles of our Lord. As we continue to pray during our Advent Season it is with joy in our souls that we know God is guiding us and preparing us for the step. 2 Corinthians 4:8-9 We are hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed. Let us go forth with the knowledge that God has prepared the way and our Savior has paid the price; we are God’s children and our faith and relationship with Him is the answer for our continued blessings. Smiles & Blessings, Cynthia Collins Kaitfors

Blessings and Opportunities

As I prepare for the day I have been thinking about the blessings and opportunities that are before us. We are given so much and it is with a grateful heart that allows me to write and share my thoughts. Our Lord bequeaths each of us talents and gifts and if we are brave enough to venture out beyond our comfort zone we are able to produce what God has planned. The equation: LOB = LOS…Loss of Belief = Loss of Success…is so true. The joy of this equation is that God has already created within us all that is needed. So as we begin new adventures or continue with familiar ones let’s keep our eyes on God and remember we can do all things through Christ. My heart fills with His love and my soul wants to sing His praises. Life as a Christian may have trials and tribulations, however loving our Lord and learning to live within His commands is pure pleasure. Psalm 89:5 The heavens praise your wonders, O Lord, your faithfulness too, in the assembly of the holy ones My prayer today is we all praise His name, bow in prayer and enjoy Christian fellowship through work and play. Smiles & Blessings, Cynthia Collins Kaitfors

Find the Time

Loving God with the heart of a child does not mean we are not supposed to mature as a Christian. There are days when we believe we have finally grown in faith… we can handle disappointments or challenges with grace, understanding and positive attitude. And then along comes a new day and we may grumble, get impatient or lose that positive attitude. It is then we realize we are oh, so human…what a disappointment! Becoming prayerful and humble we ask God for strength in order to become the person He is waiting for us to be. We live such busy lives we need day planners to stay focused and only “pencil in” family activities. We fall into bed exhausted with little or no thought to our blessings and prayers to our Lord. When rushing through life we may neglect our spiritual wellbeing or prepare for everything but a life filled with God. It is through our Lord we accomplish the agenda God has for us. Let us remember to set aside a special time for God and thank Him for our blessings, praise Jesus for His gift of life and feel the love of the Holy Spirit. Hebrews 2:18 Because He Himself has suffered when tempted, He is able to help those who are being tempted. Choose God’s way… Continue growing in faith as we maintain our Bible studies and share the joy through Christian fellowship and prayer. Smiles & Blessings, Cynthia Collins Kaitfors

Count on Me

I received an email from a dear friend with a U tube song…by Bruno Mars and states, “You can count of me…like 1-2-3… I’ll be there”. Another line from this song is… “If tossing and turning and can’t sleep…I’ll be there.” It is wonderful to know we have friends that love us and we can count on them throughout our lives; however friends can move, make choices that interrupt our friendship or die. Yet, we have the wonderful gift of God…he is not going away, make choices that remove us from His life or die. We can count on Him throughout our lives. We are so blessed to be a child of God and a sister or brother in Christ. We have that special peace knowing we are never alone. When struggling with illnesses, grief and loss or financial difficulties we have the power and strength of our Lord. As we go through our day let us remember to invite God into our lives through prayer, quiet conversation and personal relationship that grows with our faith. As Bruno Mars says, “You can count on me…like 1-2-3…I’ll be there.” God only needs to be invited and He is with us. So as we encounter tough or challenging situations let’s remember to seek…to knock…and to listen…as He will be there. Isaiah 40:29 He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Go forth with joy, strength and peace knowing our Lord will never leave us and His grace fills our soul. Smiles & Blessings, Cynthia Collins Kaitfors

Wonderful Opportunities

What an amazing opportunity that is before us. We have been given a new day and have many options. We can be positive, uplifting and caring to those around us…or bring people down and create negativity… What a delight it is to know we can choose joy and create a positive environment to all we meet. Now this does not mean we have the perfect life…it means we are choosing to be positive and faithful through tough times as well as the idyllic ones. When we can bring a smile to those in our lives, whether for a moment or a day; we are displaying our Christian attitude. God fills our heart and soul with His love and compassion…let’s spread the love. We have so many struggling with illnesses, grief and financial worries that it is important to find strength in God and know that He is taking care of us. Following the path God has for us is not always known, however as we continue to build that special relationship with our Lord we trust and believe that God’s will is being done. 2 Corinthians 12:9 “My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness.” I pray we establish a loving and giving heart for our Lord and we patiently wait for our lives to be complete with His mercy and grace. Let us prepare for His coming this Advent Season with our continued Bible studies, prayers and Christian fellowship. Smiles & Blessings, Cynthia Collins Kaitfors

God's Comfort

There are incidents and situations in our lives that can bog us down or dampen our spirit; however it is with the strength of God that we are able to endure those times. We have family and friends struggling with illnesses, financial stress or grief due to loss. While we are enduring these times I pray we turn to our Lord for courage and guidance which brings God’s healing power and mercy. He is as close as a prayer and quiet conversation. Let us build that relationship with our Lord that comforts us when feeling sad, lost, alone or vulnerable to outside negativity. Jesus knows our hearts and understands our feelings. We reach out and He is there…we cry and He fills our soul with love…and He brings peace to our life. Isaiah 65:24 “It shall come to pass, that before they call, I will answer; and while they are yet speaking, I will hear.” As we continue to develop and grow in our relationship with Jesus I pray we trust, believe and receive His strength and wisdom. Our souls are refreshed with His love and His comfort is everlasting. Let us go forth with the knowledge that God is guiding us in His way all the while preparing the next steps for us to take. Smiles & Blessings, Cynthia Collins Kaitfors

Increase by 1%

My three brothers and I all teach…we are all given the gift and blessing of lifelong learning and motivational speaking. We enjoy helping others succeed while they gain confidence about themselves. As I was thinking about how similar we all are it made me proud of our parents. They did not have the luxury of a college education, however they were amazing and motivational without all the “book learning.” They were able to inspire each of us to strive toward our potential (which is an ongoing job) and encouraged us to help others. As we prepare to do the work God has for us each day it is a blessing to thank Him for the opportunities before us. It is our time to live the life God has planned for us and to go forth with smiles, joy and confidence knowing we can do all things through Christ. As one brother stated…let’s begin each week by improving our life by 1%...in work, personal relationships and devotion to God…Can you imagine what a difference we will make… 2 Peter 1:2 Grace and peace be yours in abundance. I pray we increase our dedication and love to God by 1% more than last week and continue our learning through Bible Studies, prayers and Christian fellowship. Smiles & Blessings, Cynthia Collins Kaitfors

Freedom to Pray

As I finished my email to a girlfriend who is teaching and sharing the Gospel in a communist country I rejoiced in the freedoms we have to pray and celebrate our Lord and God. When writing to her I must be aware of what is written and remember which words are not allowed like: God, Lord, Savior, pray or any other word which may lead to Christianity. We take so much for granted...I am allowed to pray for my friend in the comfort of my home, in my Bible study group or in church. What blessings. So as we go about our day I “pray” we talk to God and give Him our petitions and supplications. He hears our prayers and knows our needs…let’s give praise to our Lord and Savior and celebrate the season of love. Luke 2: 14 “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests.” I raise my hands in prayer and my voice in song as we enjoy God’s grace, mercy and love. Share His Glory! Smiles & Blessings, Cynthia Collins Kaitfors

Needs and Prayers

The last few weeks I have had to add many dear friends and friends of friends to my prayer list. It saddens my heart that we have so many dear ones struggling with illnesses and conditions from serious accidents. They are enduring procedures, physical therapies and oncology appointments; and it is only through the strength of Jesus that our friends and family are able to move ahead with positive attitudes and outlook. We are blessed with the inner strength of Jesus and the wisdom of God and the trust in the Trinity. As we go about our days let us remember to be thankful for the miracles and healing powers of God. Philippians 4:6 Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank Him for all He has done. God hears our supplications and knows our needs…let’s thank Him for our blessings of today, tomorrow and evermore. Smiles & Blessings, Cynthia Collins Kaitfors

Found Relationships

I love my life…It is circular…and complete…The other day I had a phone call from a relative I had not heard from for years; what a blessing…This is when we know family and friends are the most important relationships we have next to God and Jesus. It isn’t the “stuff” we acquire through our live time, but the investment we make with those around us. As we cultivate a close relationship with God and Jesus we will naturally grow closer to those we love and cherish. We are able to have a perspective on the importance and value of life. Demonstrating our love for God carries over to those who are near and dear to us. We are blessed with the gift of life and we honor God by caring and fulfilling our destinies. Psalm 86:11-12 Teach me your way, O Lord, and I will walk in your truth, give me an undivided heart, that I may fear your name. I will praise you, O Lord my God, with all my heart; I will glorify your name forever. I pray we are building a relationship with God and Jesus that extend beyond a Sunday visit, but flows through the week in our conversations, our actions and prayer time. Let’s grow strong in Christ through Bible Studies, prayers, and Christian fellowship. Smiles & Blessings, Cynthia Kaitfors

Share the Love

I so enjoy the Christmas Season…the music…the atmosphere and the cheerfulness of people around us. It seems it takes a holiday to bring out the smiles and positive behaviors. Why is that? Are they our reminders? What a joy to treat each other with compassion, to think before we speak or just go out of our way for someone? I have a friend with a bad back who helped another friend move…it was a small thing to my friend but a huge help to his friend as he was by himself. It is that touch of kindness that God asks of us…Love thy neighbor…at times we don’t go beyond our little world as it may be an inconvenience or interfere with our plans; God expects so little from us. We are to love our God and Savior, love our neighbors as ourselves and to follow His commands. What blessings we receive when following God’s path. I pray we are moving toward the goal God has for each of us. Let us rejoice in the birth of Christ and show the world our Christian love. 2 Corinthians 5:21 God made Him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God. Let God’s light shine through us and share the love of Jesus. Smiles & Blessings, Cynthia Collins Kaitfors