Do not fret at idle chatter.
Man's opinions do not matter.
How folks treat you may bring stress,
But how they "see" you matters less.
You are who God says you are.
His perception rules by far.
God gives true identity
And fosters blessed serenity.
He will cause you to stand tall
And lift you up if you should fall.
He will add to you much worth
And add to that His joy and mirth.
"But thou, O Lord, art a shield for me; my glory, and the lifter up of mine head."
Psalm 3:3 KJV
"For the joy of the Lord is your strength."
Nehemiah 8:10 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Friday, October 30, 2009
God Most High
Our foundation we must guard,
As winds of change are blowing hard
To try to shift us from our base
And Christianity erase.
Foolish are the men who try
To trample on our God Most High.
The great I AM, Whose truth will stand,
Just will not bow to man's command.
But He is deeply moved by prayer
Of saints who intercede and care,
Who call upon His name to rule
And stand against all ridicule...
Worshipping in holiness
And bowing in all lowliness,
Standing guard for what is right,
Brightly shining through dark night.
"If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land."
II Chronicles 7:14 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
As winds of change are blowing hard
To try to shift us from our base
And Christianity erase.
Foolish are the men who try
To trample on our God Most High.
The great I AM, Whose truth will stand,
Just will not bow to man's command.
But He is deeply moved by prayer
Of saints who intercede and care,
Who call upon His name to rule
And stand against all ridicule...
Worshipping in holiness
And bowing in all lowliness,
Standing guard for what is right,
Brightly shining through dark night.
"If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land."
II Chronicles 7:14 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Never Wanting
Jesus always cheers me on
And helps me run my daily race.
He is there to give me balance
For each challenge I may face.
I am confident in Him
In times of weariness or stress,
For it is He Who buoys me up
And keeps me strong against duress.
What a joy to walk with Him
And daily hear His precious voice.
Knowing He is there with me
Is constant reason to rejoice!
"The Lord is my Shepherd; I shall not want."
Psalm 23:1 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
And helps me run my daily race.
He is there to give me balance
For each challenge I may face.
I am confident in Him
In times of weariness or stress,
For it is He Who buoys me up
And keeps me strong against duress.
What a joy to walk with Him
And daily hear His precious voice.
Knowing He is there with me
Is constant reason to rejoice!
"The Lord is my Shepherd; I shall not want."
Psalm 23:1 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Bright Light
Lord, make of me a vibrant light,
A lamp which goes not out by night,
Bringing hope for each new day
To those I meet along my way.
Fill me with Your richest oil
To share with those who faint from toil,
The weary and the burdened folk
Who tread with heaviness of yoke.
May light in me illumine paths,
Retrieving souls from hell's dark wraths,
Guiding souls toward Heaven's store
Of rest, salvation, peace... and more.
"Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven."
Matthew 5:16 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
A lamp which goes not out by night,
Bringing hope for each new day
To those I meet along my way.
Fill me with Your richest oil
To share with those who faint from toil,
The weary and the burdened folk
Who tread with heaviness of yoke.
May light in me illumine paths,
Retrieving souls from hell's dark wraths,
Guiding souls toward Heaven's store
Of rest, salvation, peace... and more.
"Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven."
Matthew 5:16 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
A Quick Response
When God has given us a call to do a task, the time is now.
He may ask a quick response, for sometimes time does not allow
For us to pause or lag behind, moving in "our old sweet time."
We could miss an open door when opportunity is prime.
When God shows us what to do, we can't say "later", but say "yes".
Though we may not understand, it's never good to "second-guess".
When He interrupts our path, praise His name, but do not chafe.
The very words which He would speak might even be to keep us safe.
The more we tune in to His voice, the more we can be used of Him.
Without His constant leadership our lives and futures could be dim.
Obedience is that wondrous key which keeps us balanced and alert,
Which causes us to grow in Christ and useless actions to avert.
"To obey is better than sacrifice..."
I Samuel 15:22 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
He may ask a quick response, for sometimes time does not allow
For us to pause or lag behind, moving in "our old sweet time."
We could miss an open door when opportunity is prime.
When God shows us what to do, we can't say "later", but say "yes".
Though we may not understand, it's never good to "second-guess".
When He interrupts our path, praise His name, but do not chafe.
The very words which He would speak might even be to keep us safe.
The more we tune in to His voice, the more we can be used of Him.
Without His constant leadership our lives and futures could be dim.
Obedience is that wondrous key which keeps us balanced and alert,
Which causes us to grow in Christ and useless actions to avert.
"To obey is better than sacrifice..."
I Samuel 15:22 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Monday, October 26, 2009
In Him We Are Able
God is the measure of what we can do
When we trust in Him and His tenets pursue.
He gives us guidance and far-reaching vision,
Then helps us to prosper with strength and precision.
He is the "oil" in the gears of our lives.
It is through Him that "well-being" thrives.
He is the Rock on Whom we may build
And then know our plans will all be fulfilled.
He keeps us ready and balanced and stable.
When we face challenges our God is able
To guard and protect us from going astray.
He is our power and might for each day.
"He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God, in him will I trust."
Psalm 91:1-2 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
When we trust in Him and His tenets pursue.
He gives us guidance and far-reaching vision,
Then helps us to prosper with strength and precision.
He is the "oil" in the gears of our lives.
It is through Him that "well-being" thrives.
He is the Rock on Whom we may build
And then know our plans will all be fulfilled.
He keeps us ready and balanced and stable.
When we face challenges our God is able
To guard and protect us from going astray.
He is our power and might for each day.
"He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God, in him will I trust."
Psalm 91:1-2 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Holiday Perspective
While it's still October the stores are courting Christmas
With tinsel-laden decor... it seems ridiculous.
How sad that folks are drawn to the glitzes of the season
Before they even contemplate the season's holy reason.
We have opportunity for bright anticipation
Of praising God in gratefulness and heartfelt celebration
For His gift of Jesus... His plan for our salvation.
Every day is Christmas! We should bow in adoration.
Don't let Christmas meaning get lost in busy living,
But let the coming days and weeks be full of much thanks-giving!
Let us choose within our hearts to give God all the glory,
Remembering His precious gift of Jesus and His story.
"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life."
John 3:16 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
With tinsel-laden decor... it seems ridiculous.
How sad that folks are drawn to the glitzes of the season
Before they even contemplate the season's holy reason.
We have opportunity for bright anticipation
Of praising God in gratefulness and heartfelt celebration
For His gift of Jesus... His plan for our salvation.
Every day is Christmas! We should bow in adoration.
Don't let Christmas meaning get lost in busy living,
But let the coming days and weeks be full of much thanks-giving!
Let us choose within our hearts to give God all the glory,
Remembering His precious gift of Jesus and His story.
"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life."
John 3:16 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Saturday, October 24, 2009
Potpourri Of Worship
A potpourri of worship...
A mosaic of sweet praise...
Is created as we lift our hearts
And grateful voices raise.
What sweet savor to the Lord
When His people gather 'round
And offer sacrifice of praise
With overflowing, glorious sound...
Rising in the Heavenlies
To touch the Father's ear...
Precious offerings causing Him
To listen and draw near.
"But thou art holy, O thou that inhabitest the praises of Israel."
Psalm 22:3 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
A mosaic of sweet praise...
Is created as we lift our hearts
And grateful voices raise.
What sweet savor to the Lord
When His people gather 'round
And offer sacrifice of praise
With overflowing, glorious sound...
Rising in the Heavenlies
To touch the Father's ear...
Precious offerings causing Him
To listen and draw near.
"But thou art holy, O thou that inhabitest the praises of Israel."
Psalm 22:3 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Friday, October 23, 2009
Many Stars
Myriad stars are sprinkled
In the quietness of night
And decorate the heavens
By their gentle, twinkling light.
The stars seem e'er so far away,
Suspended in the sky.
We see them with pure wonder
And their beauty can't deny.
The mystery of the universe,
Hand-formed by our Creator,
Is splashed with rich expression
Of a loving decorator!
As many as the stars of night...
The works which He has done...
To bless us each and every day
Since time was first begun.
"O Lord our Lord, how excellent is thy name in all the earth!"
Psalm 8:9 KJV
© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf
In the quietness of night
And decorate the heavens
By their gentle, twinkling light.
The stars seem e'er so far away,
Suspended in the sky.
We see them with pure wonder
And their beauty can't deny.
The mystery of the universe,
Hand-formed by our Creator,
Is splashed with rich expression
Of a loving decorator!
As many as the stars of night...
The works which He has done...
To bless us each and every day
Since time was first begun.
"O Lord our Lord, how excellent is thy name in all the earth!"
Psalm 8:9 KJV
© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Many Hats
How many "hats" we wear each day!
Some folks have a large array!
Some may "follow", some may lead,
Some may help or intercede.
Some explore and some create,
Some will sit and contemplate.
Some will watch and some stand still
As others change their "hats" at will.
Each "hat" has ability
And gives us versatility.
God's hats "fit" and beautify,
And He will give us rich supply...
"I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me."
Philippians 4:13 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Some folks have a large array!
Some may "follow", some may lead,
Some may help or intercede.
Some explore and some create,
Some will sit and contemplate.
Some will watch and some stand still
As others change their "hats" at will.
Each "hat" has ability
And gives us versatility.
God's hats "fit" and beautify,
And He will give us rich supply...
"I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me."
Philippians 4:13 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
God's Stitchery
I work on counted cross stitch painstakingly with care
To make sure every stitch I take will have a certain flair.
For each stitch is important and will add a certain hue,
Combining lovely shades of thread with colorful debut.
If I skip a stitch or two, or use wrong-colored thread,
My design will not be right but have some flaws instead.
I try to make my thread lie smooth, avoiding loops and tangles.
Then my work will have a special touch from different angles.
Oh, that I might serve the Lord with this same carefulness
And follow what He has for me with diligence and prayerfulness.
My life has "tiny stitches" which, combined, become His story.
Let me be a finished work which brings Him praise and glory.
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
To make sure every stitch I take will have a certain flair.
For each stitch is important and will add a certain hue,
Combining lovely shades of thread with colorful debut.
If I skip a stitch or two, or use wrong-colored thread,
My design will not be right but have some flaws instead.
I try to make my thread lie smooth, avoiding loops and tangles.
Then my work will have a special touch from different angles.
Oh, that I might serve the Lord with this same carefulness
And follow what He has for me with diligence and prayerfulness.
My life has "tiny stitches" which, combined, become His story.
Let me be a finished work which brings Him praise and glory.
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Grace For Our Nation
The heart of the nation is aching and sore,
And many folks tremble at what is in store.
But healing will come if we'll seek the Lord's face.
We're truly in need of His mercy and grace.
Let us bow down in reverence and prayer.
Let us cry out and all our sins bare.
Our destiny lies in the palm of God's hand.
It is He who will strengthen and help us to stand.
We need His direction to cure what is ill
And need much correction the turmoil to still.
Man cannot solve this by instinct or pride
But sorely needs God to turn this ill tide.
"If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land."
II Chronicles 7:14 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
And many folks tremble at what is in store.
But healing will come if we'll seek the Lord's face.
We're truly in need of His mercy and grace.
Let us bow down in reverence and prayer.
Let us cry out and all our sins bare.
Our destiny lies in the palm of God's hand.
It is He who will strengthen and help us to stand.
We need His direction to cure what is ill
And need much correction the turmoil to still.
Man cannot solve this by instinct or pride
But sorely needs God to turn this ill tide.
"If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land."
II Chronicles 7:14 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Monday, October 19, 2009
Lamps And Lamp Posts
In my spirit I see people in a crowd, and they look like lamps (floor lamps), walking around. And the light which is radiating from these lamps is bright and cheery and sheds warmth.
But as I look more closely, also in this crowd are many walking around who have no light. These people appear as lamp posts... without bulbs, without power... dark and grey. They are in darkness. It's like they are walking in the shadows.
What a picture! This group of people is moving about, "going through the motions" of life, but without expression or meaning. The lamp posts have no beauty or light, and if the "lamps" weren't there they would be in total darkness.
We, as Christians, have a calling to bring light wherever we are. As we let the light of Jesus shine through us we become hope for many. We can offer love, joy and peace by our speech and actions and walk. We can spread cheer by our warmth and demeanor. With the light of Jesus within we enable others to find the Light. Through us God can transform these bleak-looking lamp posts into lovely lamps which will shine brightly. God loves these "lamp posts", and He doesn't want them to be lost.
Be as a lovely lamp. Let your rays of light issue forth. Shine brightly!
"Ye are the light of the world. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven."
Matthew 5:13, 16 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
But as I look more closely, also in this crowd are many walking around who have no light. These people appear as lamp posts... without bulbs, without power... dark and grey. They are in darkness. It's like they are walking in the shadows.
What a picture! This group of people is moving about, "going through the motions" of life, but without expression or meaning. The lamp posts have no beauty or light, and if the "lamps" weren't there they would be in total darkness.
We, as Christians, have a calling to bring light wherever we are. As we let the light of Jesus shine through us we become hope for many. We can offer love, joy and peace by our speech and actions and walk. We can spread cheer by our warmth and demeanor. With the light of Jesus within we enable others to find the Light. Through us God can transform these bleak-looking lamp posts into lovely lamps which will shine brightly. God loves these "lamp posts", and He doesn't want them to be lost.
Be as a lovely lamp. Let your rays of light issue forth. Shine brightly!
"Ye are the light of the world. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven."
Matthew 5:13, 16 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sunday, October 18, 2009
Eternal Life
If we've not lived for Jesus, when all is said and done
Our many works won't have much worth... No, not even one.
What we do in Jesus' name has heavenly import.
Oh, what blessing we have when the Savior's love we court.
If we've accepted Jesus and at His table supped,
And stored up many treasures where rust does not corrupt,
We have hope of great reward forever through eternity.
Blessed life with our dear Lord... what more wondrous gift could be?
"My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: and I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand."
John 10:27-28 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Our many works won't have much worth... No, not even one.
What we do in Jesus' name has heavenly import.
Oh, what blessing we have when the Savior's love we court.
If we've accepted Jesus and at His table supped,
And stored up many treasures where rust does not corrupt,
We have hope of great reward forever through eternity.
Blessed life with our dear Lord... what more wondrous gift could be?
"My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: and I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand."
John 10:27-28 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Saturday, October 17, 2009
Mirror Image
In the mirrors of my life
What reflection will folks see?
In my actions every day
What then will the message be?
Deep within I can't "perform"
Nor "drum up" images to show.
Any image I might have
Will happen as in Christ I grow.
When Christ is inside He'll shine through
And cause reflections in my mirror
Which then cause the folks who look
To see His beauty become clearer.
The mirrors are dull without the Lord,
Clouded o'er without much light.
But when Jesus lives within
Then the mirrors are clear and bright.
"Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven."
Matthew 5:16 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
What reflection will folks see?
In my actions every day
What then will the message be?
Deep within I can't "perform"
Nor "drum up" images to show.
Any image I might have
Will happen as in Christ I grow.
When Christ is inside He'll shine through
And cause reflections in my mirror
Which then cause the folks who look
To see His beauty become clearer.
The mirrors are dull without the Lord,
Clouded o'er without much light.
But when Jesus lives within
Then the mirrors are clear and bright.
"Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven."
Matthew 5:16 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Friday, October 16, 2009
No Bugs!
Lord, why did You make insects
And creepy, crawly critters?
Things with wings and bugs with webs
Sure give me shakes and jitters!
I know birds need bugs to eat,
But sometimes bugs like ME.
And little bees make honey sweet,
But since they sting, I flee!
When I sit out on my deck
Mosquitos share my quiet space.
I'm afraid I do not show them
Welcome, caring, love or grace.
And little ants scout out my kitchen,
Looking for some food.
Patience flies right out the door.
To them I am quite rude!
There are moths who like to chew
A hole in things I wear.
I don't buy my clothes for them...
Not for them to share!
I might like a lady bug,
To bring me some good luck,
But mostly don't like crawly things.
They make me nervous. Yuck!
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
And creepy, crawly critters?
Things with wings and bugs with webs
Sure give me shakes and jitters!
I know birds need bugs to eat,
But sometimes bugs like ME.
And little bees make honey sweet,
But since they sting, I flee!
When I sit out on my deck
Mosquitos share my quiet space.
I'm afraid I do not show them
Welcome, caring, love or grace.
And little ants scout out my kitchen,
Looking for some food.
Patience flies right out the door.
To them I am quite rude!
There are moths who like to chew
A hole in things I wear.
I don't buy my clothes for them...
Not for them to share!
I might like a lady bug,
To bring me some good luck,
But mostly don't like crawly things.
They make me nervous. Yuck!
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Thursday, October 15, 2009
A Fine Line
Sometimes we speak a "little white lie",
Not meant to harm, but just to "get by".
Or sometimes we falter in speaking the truth.
In an effort to placate, we say what is "sooth".
Truth is a standard - it's still "black and white".
Even the tiniest lie is not right.
Little "white lies" are not an exception,
And sooner or later will suffer detection.
Lying and "hedging" defile the heart
And just are not pretty, so don't let them start.
Truth loves it's hearers... a much better way
To answer life's issues and not go astray.
"A lying tongue hateth those that are afflicted by it..."
Proverbs 26:28 KJV
"Wherefore putting away lying speak every man truth with
his neighbour: for we are members one of another."
Ephesians 4:25 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Not meant to harm, but just to "get by".
Or sometimes we falter in speaking the truth.
In an effort to placate, we say what is "sooth".
Truth is a standard - it's still "black and white".
Even the tiniest lie is not right.
Little "white lies" are not an exception,
And sooner or later will suffer detection.
Lying and "hedging" defile the heart
And just are not pretty, so don't let them start.
Truth loves it's hearers... a much better way
To answer life's issues and not go astray.
"A lying tongue hateth those that are afflicted by it..."
Proverbs 26:28 KJV
"Wherefore putting away lying speak every man truth with
his neighbour: for we are members one of another."
Ephesians 4:25 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
God's Paintbrush
When God is the artist, the canvas He paints
Has brush strokes of beauty, color and flair.
All that He touches is rich and unique,
Exquisite and fine, worthy and rare.
His paints are full of compassion and love
And laden with joyousness, courage and hope.
He adds His beauty where "landscapes" are bare
With brightness and colors unending in scope.
He gives attention to minute detail
And studies His work... to give it His best.
Our lives are canvas before our great God.
As He does the artwork we truly are blessed.
"Thy hands have made me and fashioned me..."
Psalm 119:73 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Has brush strokes of beauty, color and flair.
All that He touches is rich and unique,
Exquisite and fine, worthy and rare.
His paints are full of compassion and love
And laden with joyousness, courage and hope.
He adds His beauty where "landscapes" are bare
With brightness and colors unending in scope.
He gives attention to minute detail
And studies His work... to give it His best.
Our lives are canvas before our great God.
As He does the artwork we truly are blessed.
"Thy hands have made me and fashioned me..."
Psalm 119:73 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
The Love Of God
Though our prayers be long and many and our praises be on high,
Words will ne'er encompass God's great love... they just fall shy.
Man's perception of our God is miniscule at best.
We can't grasp or fathom all the ways in which we're blessed.
But when we practice His command to always love our "brother",
To reach out with a caring hand in helping one another,
We have touched His very heart... this God we so revere.
He takes notice of that love and hastens to draw near.
None will ever match His lovingkindness and His grace.
Nothing else we know in life His love can e'er replace.
God is o'er all heav'n and earth, and yet He is our friend.
All throughout eternity His love will never end.
"Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God..."
I John 3:1 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Words will ne'er encompass God's great love... they just fall shy.
Man's perception of our God is miniscule at best.
We can't grasp or fathom all the ways in which we're blessed.
But when we practice His command to always love our "brother",
To reach out with a caring hand in helping one another,
We have touched His very heart... this God we so revere.
He takes notice of that love and hastens to draw near.
None will ever match His lovingkindness and His grace.
Nothing else we know in life His love can e'er replace.
God is o'er all heav'n and earth, and yet He is our friend.
All throughout eternity His love will never end.
"Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God..."
I John 3:1 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Monday, October 12, 2009
The Waters Of The Spirit
The waters of the Spirit, which are pure and crystal-clear,
Will wash and cleanse within our hearts until we shall appear
As spotless and with robes of white before our precious Lord.
Eternity with Jesus Christ is Heaven's blessed reward.
Holy Spirit, wash us now of all our spot and stain.
Wash away the "cloudiness" of that which is mundane.
Let no haziness remain... no shadow or no doubt.
Make us pure and holy. Cleanse us, Lord, inside and out.
"Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: and see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting."
Psalm 139:23 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Will wash and cleanse within our hearts until we shall appear
As spotless and with robes of white before our precious Lord.
Eternity with Jesus Christ is Heaven's blessed reward.
Holy Spirit, wash us now of all our spot and stain.
Wash away the "cloudiness" of that which is mundane.
Let no haziness remain... no shadow or no doubt.
Make us pure and holy. Cleanse us, Lord, inside and out.
"Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: and see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting."
Psalm 139:23 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sunday, October 11, 2009
More Time To Play
A Children's Poem
The more I have and store and keep,
The more I have to clean and sweep.
Some days my toys are in a heap.
This problem makes me want to weep!
If I give some things away
I might have more time to play.
Clean-up time I spend each day
Would then be shorter. Yay! Hooray!
Because my room won't look so bad
I could then please Mom and Dad.
Extra play time this would add...
And THAT would really make me glad!
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
The more I have and store and keep,
The more I have to clean and sweep.
Some days my toys are in a heap.
This problem makes me want to weep!
If I give some things away
I might have more time to play.
Clean-up time I spend each day
Would then be shorter. Yay! Hooray!
Because my room won't look so bad
I could then please Mom and Dad.
Extra play time this would add...
And THAT would really make me glad!
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Saturday, October 10, 2009
Answers For Today
If your feet are weary from the path on which you tread,
And you wake up every morning with a sense of fear and dread,
If your arms hang down from the weight and load you bear
And confusion seems to keep you from the Word and daily prayer...
There is help so very near to make your burden light...
And answers which you have not seen... bright and also right!
In the Word is wisdom which is current for today...
Aid with proven worth which will keep you from life's fray.
You will find firm footing so your feet will never slip.
Studying the Word of God will help you "get a grip".
Here is strength and hope for a new and better day.
God will light your path as you read His word and pray.
"Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path."
Psalm 119:105 KJV
"For thou art my lamp, O Lord: and the Lord will lighten my darkness."
II Samuel 22:29 KJV
"Thou hast enlarged my steps under me; so that my feet did not slip."
II Samuel 22:37 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
And you wake up every morning with a sense of fear and dread,
If your arms hang down from the weight and load you bear
And confusion seems to keep you from the Word and daily prayer...
There is help so very near to make your burden light...
And answers which you have not seen... bright and also right!
In the Word is wisdom which is current for today...
Aid with proven worth which will keep you from life's fray.
You will find firm footing so your feet will never slip.
Studying the Word of God will help you "get a grip".
Here is strength and hope for a new and better day.
God will light your path as you read His word and pray.
"Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path."
Psalm 119:105 KJV
"For thou art my lamp, O Lord: and the Lord will lighten my darkness."
II Samuel 22:29 KJV
"Thou hast enlarged my steps under me; so that my feet did not slip."
II Samuel 22:37 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Friday, October 09, 2009
Seedtime And Harvest
Good seeds we have planted over time and through the years
Will surely bring a harvest of rejoicing from our tears.
As we sow our labors and our prayers unto God
We can know His faithfulness is more than just a "nod".
For He will count our labors and will bottle up our tears,
Will fill us with His strength and give joy amidst our fears.
Good seeds which are sown may lie dormant for a time,
But then will find fruition as a precious paradigm.
Sowing is a pleasant task, of which we should not tire,
With promise of a harvest, to which we should aspire.
Harvest time is glorious when we gather up our grain,
For God was there amidst our fields, our labors to ordain.
"He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him."
Psalm 126:6 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Will surely bring a harvest of rejoicing from our tears.
As we sow our labors and our prayers unto God
We can know His faithfulness is more than just a "nod".
For He will count our labors and will bottle up our tears,
Will fill us with His strength and give joy amidst our fears.
Good seeds which are sown may lie dormant for a time,
But then will find fruition as a precious paradigm.
Sowing is a pleasant task, of which we should not tire,
With promise of a harvest, to which we should aspire.
Harvest time is glorious when we gather up our grain,
For God was there amidst our fields, our labors to ordain.
"He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him."
Psalm 126:6 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Thursday, October 08, 2009
Always With Us
As we move through life we have "frameworks" around us
Of families and friends who lend us support.
But sometimes we find ourselves standing alone.
It is then we reach up and the Lord's help we court.
But all of the time He was standing quite near,
Ready to reach out and give us His hand.
When leaning on others we sometimes forget
It is Jesus Who steadies and helps us to stand.
He is our source and help for each day.
When we're not strong He always is able.
No matter the depth of the storms we go through,
We're never alone but in Him will be stable.
"For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord."
Romans 8:38-39 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Of families and friends who lend us support.
But sometimes we find ourselves standing alone.
It is then we reach up and the Lord's help we court.
But all of the time He was standing quite near,
Ready to reach out and give us His hand.
When leaning on others we sometimes forget
It is Jesus Who steadies and helps us to stand.
He is our source and help for each day.
When we're not strong He always is able.
No matter the depth of the storms we go through,
We're never alone but in Him will be stable.
"For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord."
Romans 8:38-39 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Wednesday, October 07, 2009
Guarding Our Focus
Sometimes in our "walk"
Our attention span will wander.
When we're off on "bunny trails",
God's purpose we may squander.
Keeping focused in the Lord
Is manna we should savor,
Lest glancing off to left or right
May cause our steps to waver.
Distractions will rob energy
And cause us to lose track.
The time and purpose we may lose
Sometimes we can't get back.
Patterns in the way we live
May need a fresh, new change.
And it may be a challenge...
Our time to re-arrange.
When our thoughts are trained on Him
Then we will be at rest.
And in our daily walk with Him
We truly will be blessed.
"I will praise the Lord with my whole heart..."
Psalm 111:1 KJV
"Commit thy works unto the Lord, and thy thoughts shall be established."
Proverbs 16:3 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Our attention span will wander.
When we're off on "bunny trails",
God's purpose we may squander.
Keeping focused in the Lord
Is manna we should savor,
Lest glancing off to left or right
May cause our steps to waver.
Distractions will rob energy
And cause us to lose track.
The time and purpose we may lose
Sometimes we can't get back.
Patterns in the way we live
May need a fresh, new change.
And it may be a challenge...
Our time to re-arrange.
When our thoughts are trained on Him
Then we will be at rest.
And in our daily walk with Him
We truly will be blessed.
"I will praise the Lord with my whole heart..."
Psalm 111:1 KJV
"Commit thy works unto the Lord, and thy thoughts shall be established."
Proverbs 16:3 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Tuesday, October 06, 2009
Discerning The Holy Spirit
I have been in meetings (wonderful meetings) where the Holy Spirit was speaking through people, where lives were being touched, where "words of knowledge" were coming forth, where fellowship in the Spirit was warm and wonderful... and all in attendance felt blessed. And I have treasured those times.
But then as I was driving home or, if after I got home I would sit and wait on the Lord quietly, He would begin to speak further. He would give me an "overview" of what He was doing in those meetings. The "overview" was revelation, and it was the "key" to understanding His purpose.
This is true not just in meetings, but in all the events of our lives. Taking time to discern the movement of the Spirit is what will guide us in all that we do. God has not left us helpless. He has given us the Holy Spirit. And as we listen to the voice of the Spirit and learn to discern His movement our vision will be opened up and our footsteps will be sure.
Importantly, if we are keen to discern the movement of the Spirit we will not spend time in any one place beyond the timing of the Spirit but will always be moving forward.
Our God is faithful to always guide and help us.
"Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God."
I Corinthians 2:12 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
But then as I was driving home or, if after I got home I would sit and wait on the Lord quietly, He would begin to speak further. He would give me an "overview" of what He was doing in those meetings. The "overview" was revelation, and it was the "key" to understanding His purpose.
This is true not just in meetings, but in all the events of our lives. Taking time to discern the movement of the Spirit is what will guide us in all that we do. God has not left us helpless. He has given us the Holy Spirit. And as we listen to the voice of the Spirit and learn to discern His movement our vision will be opened up and our footsteps will be sure.
Importantly, if we are keen to discern the movement of the Spirit we will not spend time in any one place beyond the timing of the Spirit but will always be moving forward.
Our God is faithful to always guide and help us.
"Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God."
I Corinthians 2:12 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Monday, October 05, 2009
Helping One Another
Communities and neighbors
Standing strong in times of need,
Helping one another,
Bring recovery with speed.
We're not meant to stand alone
When we are under stress.
Many hands can make light work
And quickly ease duress.
Encouraging and reaching out
Helps folks to start to cope.
When they're hurting and in need
Others can bring love and hope.
"Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them..."
Matthew 7:12 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Standing strong in times of need,
Helping one another,
Bring recovery with speed.
We're not meant to stand alone
When we are under stress.
Many hands can make light work
And quickly ease duress.
Encouraging and reaching out
Helps folks to start to cope.
When they're hurting and in need
Others can bring love and hope.
"Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them..."
Matthew 7:12 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sunday, October 04, 2009
Cobwebs
Have you ever noticed how cobwebs seem to happen when you aren't looking or paying attention, and how they are sticky and "cling" to you when you touch them or walk into one? When I see them on the walls of my house I know the spiders have been there "working".
This is what can happen to us spiritually (in our minds and thoughts and spirits) if we don't keep surveillance. If "cobwebs" start to clutter up our relationship with the Lord they can cloud our vision and rob our joy. When they rest undisturbed over a period of time they will become as a think woven layer. This can also happen in relationships with family and friends, in job situations, in churches... anywhere where "spiders" are. Cobwebs block the flow of the Spirit.
It is important to spend time in prayer and allow the spotlight of the Holy Spirit to show us if we have any cobwebs which need to be cleaned out, and then we need to deal with them. Probably none of us would "invite" spiders into our homes, but when they leave a "trail" we can certainly sweep it out!
"For the Lord searcheth all hearts, and understandeth all the imaginations of the thoughts: if thou seek him, he will be found of thee..."
I Chronicles 28:9 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
This is what can happen to us spiritually (in our minds and thoughts and spirits) if we don't keep surveillance. If "cobwebs" start to clutter up our relationship with the Lord they can cloud our vision and rob our joy. When they rest undisturbed over a period of time they will become as a think woven layer. This can also happen in relationships with family and friends, in job situations, in churches... anywhere where "spiders" are. Cobwebs block the flow of the Spirit.
It is important to spend time in prayer and allow the spotlight of the Holy Spirit to show us if we have any cobwebs which need to be cleaned out, and then we need to deal with them. Probably none of us would "invite" spiders into our homes, but when they leave a "trail" we can certainly sweep it out!
"For the Lord searcheth all hearts, and understandeth all the imaginations of the thoughts: if thou seek him, he will be found of thee..."
I Chronicles 28:9 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Saturday, October 03, 2009
Hope For This Day
In God is hope for this day and hour,
Sheltered in Him, Who is a strong tower.
In Him is anchor when footing is weak.
He is assurance when all seems quite bleak.
In Him is joy through darkness of night.
He is our strength, our very sure light.
He is our God, in Whom we are blessed.
Let His great peace in your heart bring rest.
"I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust."
Psalm 91:2 KJV
"Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee."
Isaiah 26:3 KJV
"The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?"
Psalm 27:1 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sheltered in Him, Who is a strong tower.
In Him is anchor when footing is weak.
He is assurance when all seems quite bleak.
In Him is joy through darkness of night.
He is our strength, our very sure light.
He is our God, in Whom we are blessed.
Let His great peace in your heart bring rest.
"I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust."
Psalm 91:2 KJV
"Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee."
Isaiah 26:3 KJV
"The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?"
Psalm 27:1 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Friday, October 02, 2009
Lullaby
Angel wings, hovering,
Angel wings, covering,
Bringing peace and rest and sleep.
May their watchcare safely keep...
Singing gentle lullabies,
Of flowers and pretty butterflies.
Slumber on, O little child.
May your dreams be soft and mild.
Till you wake up to the dawn
And greet the new day with a yawn,
May your rest be heaven-sent
As angel wings provide your tent.
"For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways."
Psalm 91:11 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Angel wings, covering,
Bringing peace and rest and sleep.
May their watchcare safely keep...
Singing gentle lullabies,
Of flowers and pretty butterflies.
Slumber on, O little child.
May your dreams be soft and mild.
Till you wake up to the dawn
And greet the new day with a yawn,
May your rest be heaven-sent
As angel wings provide your tent.
"For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways."
Psalm 91:11 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Thursday, October 01, 2009
Autumn's Warmth
God has His paintbrush ready and His palette in His hand,
To brighten up the countryside and make it all look grand!
He'll splash His colors far and wide in autumn's bright display.
It seems He gives us extra "warmth"... enough for winter's "gray".
When cold sets in and earth will sleep, we'll have these memories
Of beauty from the Master's hand, our hearts and thoughts to please.
Drink in His great artistry to cheer and keep you warm.
Let it be a burning fire through wind and rain and storm.
Until He wakes the earth again with blades of green in spring,
Let harmonies of autumn's flair within your spirit ring.
Harvest beauty in this time for store within your soul.
Forget not all God's benefits displayed in autumn's role.
"Blessed be the Lord, who daily loadeth us with benefits, even the God of our salvation."
Psalm 68:19 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
To brighten up the countryside and make it all look grand!
He'll splash His colors far and wide in autumn's bright display.
It seems He gives us extra "warmth"... enough for winter's "gray".
When cold sets in and earth will sleep, we'll have these memories
Of beauty from the Master's hand, our hearts and thoughts to please.
Drink in His great artistry to cheer and keep you warm.
Let it be a burning fire through wind and rain and storm.
Until He wakes the earth again with blades of green in spring,
Let harmonies of autumn's flair within your spirit ring.
Harvest beauty in this time for store within your soul.
Forget not all God's benefits displayed in autumn's role.
"Blessed be the Lord, who daily loadeth us with benefits, even the God of our salvation."
Psalm 68:19 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)