Man must always recognize
That God is wiser than "the wise".
Yet miracles which our God does
Cause "scholars" oft to be "abuzz".
All their efforts are in vain
God's great miracles to explain.
Though they try to rationalize,
God's handiwork still brings surprise.
Miracles are real today...
God's lovingkindness to convey.
Mankind cannot understand
Miracles are from God's hand.
"Is any thing too hard for the Lord"?
Genesis 18:14 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sunday, July 31, 2011
Saturday, July 30, 2011
Take Time To Listen
Turn off the "world's" confusion and noise
So you can hear God and learn of His joys.
The sounds of the "world" will drown out His voice
Until you can't hear and make a good choice.
He is a refuge for you and for me...
A tower of safety to which we may flee.
In Him is peace through darkness or storm.
He gives us balance when all is not norm.
The "world" will distract and draw us away
From knowing our God... we can't be blase'.
Oh, how important, the choices we make.
Draw nigh to God... for eternity's sake.
"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
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
So you can hear God and learn of His joys.
The sounds of the "world" will drown out His voice
Until you can't hear and make a good choice.
He is a refuge for you and for me...
A tower of safety to which we may flee.
In Him is peace through darkness or storm.
He gives us balance when all is not norm.
The "world" will distract and draw us away
From knowing our God... we can't be blase'.
Oh, how important, the choices we make.
Draw nigh to God... for eternity's sake.
"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
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Friday, July 29, 2011
Crystal-Like
A crystal is just plain old glass
Until an "artist" gives it "class".
When it is exposed to Light
It has a sparkling, beauty bright.
Endless glints of color shine,
Reflecting off it's cut design.
Rainbow colors mirrored in light
Fascinate and bring delight.
Lord, let me as a crystal be.
Let Your light reflect off me
As the crystal's rainbow hues.
Touch me, Lord... Your light infuse.
"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
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Until an "artist" gives it "class".
When it is exposed to Light
It has a sparkling, beauty bright.
Endless glints of color shine,
Reflecting off it's cut design.
Rainbow colors mirrored in light
Fascinate and bring delight.
Lord, let me as a crystal be.
Let Your light reflect off me
As the crystal's rainbow hues.
Touch me, Lord... Your light infuse.
"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
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Thursday, July 28, 2011
A Tribute To My Grandmother
I do not remember my grandmother because I was only three years old when we moved away to another state. But I remember hearing many stories about how giving and kind she was. One of the stories I particularly remember is the following...
Grandma was in the hospital and was suffering extreme pain. This was a Catholic hospital, and she called the nurse and asked to have the priest come and pray for her. The nurse explained that because Grandma wasn't Catholic that she would need to call a clergyman from a Protestant faith. Grandma simply replied, "There aren't going to be any partitions in heaven. Please have the priest come and pray for me." There was some hesitancy on the part of the hospital, but the priest did come.
This was back in the 1950's, and in that time this was a very unusual situation. But Grandma's love and vision far surpassed any barriers which others would have had and broke through in a glorious expression of love.
Grandma left an important heritage to her many children and to all who knew her. She loved the Lord and served Him faithfully all the days of her life. She lived a life of love.
"This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you."
John 15:12 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Grandma was in the hospital and was suffering extreme pain. This was a Catholic hospital, and she called the nurse and asked to have the priest come and pray for her. The nurse explained that because Grandma wasn't Catholic that she would need to call a clergyman from a Protestant faith. Grandma simply replied, "There aren't going to be any partitions in heaven. Please have the priest come and pray for me." There was some hesitancy on the part of the hospital, but the priest did come.
This was back in the 1950's, and in that time this was a very unusual situation. But Grandma's love and vision far surpassed any barriers which others would have had and broke through in a glorious expression of love.
Grandma left an important heritage to her many children and to all who knew her. She loved the Lord and served Him faithfully all the days of her life. She lived a life of love.
"This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you."
John 15:12 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Good Fruit
Righteousness will yield good fruit
Because it has a healthy root.
All it's growth may not be seen
But over time remains pristine.
It's stance for truth is very strong.
Over-ruling what is wrong.
Making choice for what is good
And making impact... as it should.
It becomes a shining light.
By example it is bright,
Blazing trails through the dark,
Leaving an impressive "mark".
"The root of the righteous yieldeth fruit."
Proverbs 12:12 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Because it has a healthy root.
All it's growth may not be seen
But over time remains pristine.
It's stance for truth is very strong.
Over-ruling what is wrong.
Making choice for what is good
And making impact... as it should.
It becomes a shining light.
By example it is bright,
Blazing trails through the dark,
Leaving an impressive "mark".
"The root of the righteous yieldeth fruit."
Proverbs 12:12 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Hope Of Heaven
When we leave earth our lives are not through.
Eternity hinges on that which we do.
We have two choices... Heaven or hell.
To attain Heaven we must live well.
God made provision when He sent His Son,
Desiring that none should be lost... not one.
When we know Jesus our future is sure.
Our promise of Heaven is sealed and secure.
Our God would draw us to be at His side,
Forever and ever in Him to abide.
Even today He calls out to the "lost"
And offers escape from hell's gruesome cost.
"For we know that if our earthly house of this tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens."
II Corinthians 5:1 KJV
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Eternity hinges on that which we do.
We have two choices... Heaven or hell.
To attain Heaven we must live well.
God made provision when He sent His Son,
Desiring that none should be lost... not one.
When we know Jesus our future is sure.
Our promise of Heaven is sealed and secure.
Our God would draw us to be at His side,
Forever and ever in Him to abide.
Even today He calls out to the "lost"
And offers escape from hell's gruesome cost.
"For we know that if our earthly house of this tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens."
II Corinthians 5:1 KJV
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Monday, July 25, 2011
Let Wisdom Rule
When politicians squabble
Everything just seems to wobble.
Needed much is common sense
And for order to commence.
Selfish purpose dominates
Without solutions in debates.
The real problem has high cost,
But in rhetoric gets lost.
We need men who get things done
And bring solutions one-by-one.
We need healing in our land
And leaders who for order stand.
Let righteousness and truth prevail
And men their bickering curtail!
Let them pray and do what's right
That our future may be bright.
"The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom..."
Proverbs 9:10 KJV
"If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him."
James 1:5 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Everything just seems to wobble.
Needed much is common sense
And for order to commence.
Selfish purpose dominates
Without solutions in debates.
The real problem has high cost,
But in rhetoric gets lost.
We need men who get things done
And bring solutions one-by-one.
We need healing in our land
And leaders who for order stand.
Let righteousness and truth prevail
And men their bickering curtail!
Let them pray and do what's right
That our future may be bright.
"The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom..."
Proverbs 9:10 KJV
"If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him."
James 1:5 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sunday, July 24, 2011
A Path To The Extraordinary
As the wheels of "dailiness" turn
For variety we oft yearn...
For something bright or new to do
To brighten up our "tired" view.
When routine becomes "a drag"
And energy begins to lag,
Deep inside may be a test
Which really needs to be addressed.
Diligence and patience learned
Are precious prizes to be earned.
That routine of which we're wary
May lead to the exteraordinary.
Be creative... don't complain,
For learning well will bring great gain.
Perseverance has great worth
And to new vistas will give birth.
"But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing."
James 1:4 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
For variety we oft yearn...
For something bright or new to do
To brighten up our "tired" view.
When routine becomes "a drag"
And energy begins to lag,
Deep inside may be a test
Which really needs to be addressed.
Diligence and patience learned
Are precious prizes to be earned.
That routine of which we're wary
May lead to the exteraordinary.
Be creative... don't complain,
For learning well will bring great gain.
Perseverance has great worth
And to new vistas will give birth.
"But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing."
James 1:4 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Saturday, July 23, 2011
Integrity Speaks
Integrity speaks when no one is watching.
Honesty stands... if seen or unseen.
Facade may obscure a lie deep within,
But God's Holy Spirit our heart-thoughts will screen.
God will discern if we are "true-blue",
If shadow or spot could cause us to waver.
Hearts cannot hide, for He sees clear through,
And purity causes a heart to find favor.
Integrity has a strength of it's own
And it will have nothing to hide or conceal.
It is unchanging... it never will bend.
Truth is it's core... it's highest ideal.
"The integrity of the upright shall guide them..."
Proverbs 11:3 KJV
"I the Lord search the heart, I try the reins, even to give every man according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings."
Jeremiah 17:10 KJV
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Honesty stands... if seen or unseen.
Facade may obscure a lie deep within,
But God's Holy Spirit our heart-thoughts will screen.
God will discern if we are "true-blue",
If shadow or spot could cause us to waver.
Hearts cannot hide, for He sees clear through,
And purity causes a heart to find favor.
Integrity has a strength of it's own
And it will have nothing to hide or conceal.
It is unchanging... it never will bend.
Truth is it's core... it's highest ideal.
"The integrity of the upright shall guide them..."
Proverbs 11:3 KJV
"I the Lord search the heart, I try the reins, even to give every man according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings."
Jeremiah 17:10 KJV
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Friday, July 22, 2011
Too Much To Do
Some are always in a hurry.
With much to do, they have to scurry.
Too many projects they pursue,
Then have to hustle to get through.
When schedules push us to that point,
Important things get out of joint.
Priorities willl sometimes "slide"
And times of rest are pushed aside.
If confusion enters in
This creates some further "din".
To "downsize" is a good idea,
A wise and helpful panacea.
A slower pace will create peace
And from pressure brings release.
Time to pray and time to rest
Bring balance by which we'll be blessed.
"Happy is the man that findeth wisdom, and the man that getteth understanding."
Proverbs 3:13 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
With much to do, they have to scurry.
Too many projects they pursue,
Then have to hustle to get through.
When schedules push us to that point,
Important things get out of joint.
Priorities willl sometimes "slide"
And times of rest are pushed aside.
If confusion enters in
This creates some further "din".
To "downsize" is a good idea,
A wise and helpful panacea.
A slower pace will create peace
And from pressure brings release.
Time to pray and time to rest
Bring balance by which we'll be blessed.
"Happy is the man that findeth wisdom, and the man that getteth understanding."
Proverbs 3:13 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Thursday, July 21, 2011
A Very Bright Light
When my mother was nearing 101 years of age it became necessary for her to be in nursing home care beccause she could no longer walk on her own. Her vision had become quite dim, so she didn't converse with others there at the nursing home because she couldn't see clearly enough to know who she was talking to.
At the nursing home she shared a room with a lovely Christian lady named Juanita, who was there recovering from an open-heart surgery. Juanita was 78 years old.
One day, when I visited at the nursing home, Juanita shared with me how my mother had totally transformed her life. Juanita's statement was: "I saw how patient your mom was as the nurses brought her in and out in the wheelchair, and she never complained. My own attitudes were really bad, and watching how she is at her age (in her condition) totally transformed my life."
I don't know if Juanita had expressed her feelings to my mom or not. But what a tribute to the light of Jesus in my mom. The witness of her life had brought healing to another even in those last few days of her very long life.
"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
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
At the nursing home she shared a room with a lovely Christian lady named Juanita, who was there recovering from an open-heart surgery. Juanita was 78 years old.
One day, when I visited at the nursing home, Juanita shared with me how my mother had totally transformed her life. Juanita's statement was: "I saw how patient your mom was as the nurses brought her in and out in the wheelchair, and she never complained. My own attitudes were really bad, and watching how she is at her age (in her condition) totally transformed my life."
I don't know if Juanita had expressed her feelings to my mom or not. But what a tribute to the light of Jesus in my mom. The witness of her life had brought healing to another even in those last few days of her very long life.
"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
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
A Gentle Word
A gentle touch will heal and soothe and set a person free,
For healing comes through nurture and sensitivity.
Wounded folks with deepset need are often tightly bound,
But by the love and grace of God true freedom can be found.
Even simple hurts and "snags" can cause folks to be "numb",
But if we show them love and grace they'll start to overcome.
What joy it is to watch one rise from sorrow into joy
As we by gentleness become to them a needed buoy.
We can cheer so many folks by showing that we care
And lift them out of woundedness just by being there.
They can find the strength to stand because they're not alone
And triumph in their lives again because of love we've shown.
"A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver."
Proverbs 25:11 KJV
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
For healing comes through nurture and sensitivity.
Wounded folks with deepset need are often tightly bound,
But by the love and grace of God true freedom can be found.
Even simple hurts and "snags" can cause folks to be "numb",
But if we show them love and grace they'll start to overcome.
What joy it is to watch one rise from sorrow into joy
As we by gentleness become to them a needed buoy.
We can cheer so many folks by showing that we care
And lift them out of woundedness just by being there.
They can find the strength to stand because they're not alone
And triumph in their lives again because of love we've shown.
"A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver."
Proverbs 25:11 KJV
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
A Winning Smile
Have you ever noticed how a Christian has a smile
Which is bright and filled with happiness, with absence of all guile?
Jesus Christ sets people free from sin's dark stain and curse
And fills them with His radiant joy... sin's patterns to reverse.
Sin is as a "warp" on man, distorting who he is,
And robbing him of God's potential, blocking what is his.
Even his appearance will have shadows which are dark...
Maybe only subtly, but a certain look or mark.
When Jesus sets a person free, the shadows disappear.
The love of God transforms that life and he is filled with cheer.
Beauty which the Lord designed will surface and be bright.
Shadowed places which were dark will now be filled with light.
"For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light."
Ephesians 5:8 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Which is bright and filled with happiness, with absence of all guile?
Jesus Christ sets people free from sin's dark stain and curse
And fills them with His radiant joy... sin's patterns to reverse.
Sin is as a "warp" on man, distorting who he is,
And robbing him of God's potential, blocking what is his.
Even his appearance will have shadows which are dark...
Maybe only subtly, but a certain look or mark.
When Jesus sets a person free, the shadows disappear.
The love of God transforms that life and he is filled with cheer.
Beauty which the Lord designed will surface and be bright.
Shadowed places which were dark will now be filled with light.
"For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light."
Ephesians 5:8 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Monday, July 18, 2011
Summer's Song
Cooling streams and waterbrooks
With rippling waters sing their song...
Music from the heart of God
Which makes one want to sing along.
Breezes in the willow trees
Whisper lilting melodies...
A lovely touch of summer's ease
As nature sets her heart to please.
Meadows filled with butterflies
And birdsong drifting through the air
Are blessings to remind us all
That summer has a song to share.
Join her laughter, sing her song.
Let her beauty lift your heart.
Let her chorus fill your days
And merrily her joy impart.
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
With rippling waters sing their song...
Music from the heart of God
Which makes one want to sing along.
Breezes in the willow trees
Whisper lilting melodies...
A lovely touch of summer's ease
As nature sets her heart to please.
Meadows filled with butterflies
And birdsong drifting through the air
Are blessings to remind us all
That summer has a song to share.
Join her laughter, sing her song.
Let her beauty lift your heart.
Let her chorus fill your days
And merrily her joy impart.
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sunday, July 17, 2011
Worship On My Mind
Worship wafts throughout my day
In colorful and blessed array,
Bright'ning every thought I have,
Cheering me as healing salve.
Threads of song and lines of praise
Become as sunshine's warming rays,
Lifting me from daily task
And causing me in joy to bask.
Time is happily defined
When I have worship on my mind.
God is awesome... to be praised.
Let all my thoughts to Him be raised...
"Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice."
Philippians 4:4 KJV
"Give unto the Lord the glory due unto his name; worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness."
Psalm 29:2 KJV
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
In colorful and blessed array,
Bright'ning every thought I have,
Cheering me as healing salve.
Threads of song and lines of praise
Become as sunshine's warming rays,
Lifting me from daily task
And causing me in joy to bask.
Time is happily defined
When I have worship on my mind.
God is awesome... to be praised.
Let all my thoughts to Him be raised...
"Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice."
Philippians 4:4 KJV
"Give unto the Lord the glory due unto his name; worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness."
Psalm 29:2 KJV
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Saturday, July 16, 2011
The Love Of God
God gave us His Son... His great love to show.
Love is the greatest of all things we know.
Christ brought example for how we should love...
He was the "measure" God sent from above.
Love is a lesson... our thinking to change.
With practice, our lives it will rearrange.
That which we thought had value or worth
Becomes as mere dust when love has it's birth.
Love is a gift, by which we are blessed,
Where God's lovingkindness and grace are expressed.
All things are better when love is in place.
Love is God's beauty... which we should embrace.
"Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God."
I John 4:7 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Love is the greatest of all things we know.
Christ brought example for how we should love...
He was the "measure" God sent from above.
Love is a lesson... our thinking to change.
With practice, our lives it will rearrange.
That which we thought had value or worth
Becomes as mere dust when love has it's birth.
Love is a gift, by which we are blessed,
Where God's lovingkindness and grace are expressed.
All things are better when love is in place.
Love is God's beauty... which we should embrace.
"Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God."
I John 4:7 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Friday, July 15, 2011
Patience And Waiting
A test of our patience is waiting on God...
Sometimes we think that His timing is odd.
Though waiting for Him can become a real test,
Always He'll give us what truly is best.
Patience is not very easy to learn,
But learning it well great merits will earn.
Maybe He's teaching us we need to trust,
Or saying, "Our attitudes we should adjust."
Jumping ahead of His timing and plan
May shortchange the beauty of what He began.
We can move forward and His plans ignore,
But if we will wait He'll give us much more.
"But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing."
James 1:4 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sometimes we think that His timing is odd.
Though waiting for Him can become a real test,
Always He'll give us what truly is best.
Patience is not very easy to learn,
But learning it well great merits will earn.
Maybe He's teaching us we need to trust,
Or saying, "Our attitudes we should adjust."
Jumping ahead of His timing and plan
May shortchange the beauty of what He began.
We can move forward and His plans ignore,
But if we will wait He'll give us much more.
"But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing."
James 1:4 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Thursday, July 14, 2011
The Gift Of Color
God must have a giant brush...
Offering colors which are lush...
Painted beauty everywhere
For mountains, trees and plants to wear.
Nature bursts with color's gift,
Our spirit and our soul to lift,
Painted there to bring delight,
His loving signature to write.
"Wrapped" in color, we are blessed
And by His artistry impressed...
Shades and hues of warmth and light
To cheer our lives and make them bright!
"O Lord, our Lord, how excellent is thy name in all the earth!"
Psalm 8:9 KJV
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Offering colors which are lush...
Painted beauty everywhere
For mountains, trees and plants to wear.
Nature bursts with color's gift,
Our spirit and our soul to lift,
Painted there to bring delight,
His loving signature to write.
"Wrapped" in color, we are blessed
And by His artistry impressed...
Shades and hues of warmth and light
To cheer our lives and make them bright!
"O Lord, our Lord, how excellent is thy name in all the earth!"
Psalm 8:9 KJV
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
No Fear
It is so important to be able to discern what is happening around us...
One evening I was leading worship in a meeting, and I was aware of a man across the room in the front row who was seeking to be noticed... he had a disruptive spirit. When worship was over and our speaker began to speak, this man was trying to get the speaker's attention and interject his own comments. The speaker did not allow him to interrupt, and he was restless.
I started praying (within myself) to block what he was trying to do. When the speaker was through and called our prayer teams to come forward to pray for those with needs, this man got up and came across the room toward me. He was angrily clawing at the air with his hand and came right toward my face. He was maybe only three feet from me when I motioned with my hand and said to him very quietly, "You're out of order." He stopped in his tracks. He couldn't move another inch toward me. And then he left.
This all happened very fast, but I felt no fear because the Lord had given me the words to say. It was the power of God working which stopped him. My friend was sitting by me and saw what happened. She said she was really scared that he would hurt me.
I learned a very valuable lesson in this. When I was praying silently against the evil in this man I made no visible signs that I was praying. But HE KNEW exactly who was blocking him and showed intense anger toward me. I realized that when my spirit is uncomfortable with the spirit in someone around me, probably the wrong spirit in the other person will not be comfortable around ME.
In this case, the Lord intercepted the situation and disabled the man's efforts to retaliate against me. He guided and protected me, and the evil person had to leave.
"For the Holy Ghost shall teach you in the same hour what ye ought to say."
Luke 12:12 KJV
"Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them; because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world."
I John 4:4 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
One evening I was leading worship in a meeting, and I was aware of a man across the room in the front row who was seeking to be noticed... he had a disruptive spirit. When worship was over and our speaker began to speak, this man was trying to get the speaker's attention and interject his own comments. The speaker did not allow him to interrupt, and he was restless.
I started praying (within myself) to block what he was trying to do. When the speaker was through and called our prayer teams to come forward to pray for those with needs, this man got up and came across the room toward me. He was angrily clawing at the air with his hand and came right toward my face. He was maybe only three feet from me when I motioned with my hand and said to him very quietly, "You're out of order." He stopped in his tracks. He couldn't move another inch toward me. And then he left.
This all happened very fast, but I felt no fear because the Lord had given me the words to say. It was the power of God working which stopped him. My friend was sitting by me and saw what happened. She said she was really scared that he would hurt me.
I learned a very valuable lesson in this. When I was praying silently against the evil in this man I made no visible signs that I was praying. But HE KNEW exactly who was blocking him and showed intense anger toward me. I realized that when my spirit is uncomfortable with the spirit in someone around me, probably the wrong spirit in the other person will not be comfortable around ME.
In this case, the Lord intercepted the situation and disabled the man's efforts to retaliate against me. He guided and protected me, and the evil person had to leave.
"For the Holy Ghost shall teach you in the same hour what ye ought to say."
Luke 12:12 KJV
"Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them; because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world."
I John 4:4 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
Very Near
The older I get, the more it is clear,
Our God isn't distant but so very near.
He knows our ways and our heart's desire
And answers our prayers before we inquire.
We're not alone... He's right by our side,
Our uncertain footsteps to steady and guide.
His presence is real... and very unique,
Not just on Sunday, but all through the week.
The more we are bathed in the wealth of His Word
The closer He seems and the more we are stirred.
We are not lacking... we're never alone,
For the gift of His presence He has made known.
"The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want."
Psalm 23:1 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Our God isn't distant but so very near.
He knows our ways and our heart's desire
And answers our prayers before we inquire.
We're not alone... He's right by our side,
Our uncertain footsteps to steady and guide.
His presence is real... and very unique,
Not just on Sunday, but all through the week.
The more we are bathed in the wealth of His Word
The closer He seems and the more we are stirred.
We are not lacking... we're never alone,
For the gift of His presence He has made known.
"The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want."
Psalm 23:1 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Monday, July 11, 2011
As Confetti
God's blessings are so many that we could never count
The measures of His goodness or know the whole amount.
Sprinkling down upon us as confetti in the air
Is lovingkindness from His hand, e'en when we aren't aware.
We are covered by His love much more than we could guess.
His kindness is much greater than we can e'er express.
Celebrate our awesome God! Rejoice and give Him praise!
Worship Him with joyous song! All glory to Him raise!
"The Lord taketh pleasure in them that fear him, in those that hope in his mercy."
Psalm 147:11 KJV
"Because thy lovingkindness is better than life, my lips shall praise thee. Thus will I bless thee while I live: I will lift up my hands in thy name."
Psalm 63:3-4 KJV
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
The measures of His goodness or know the whole amount.
Sprinkling down upon us as confetti in the air
Is lovingkindness from His hand, e'en when we aren't aware.
We are covered by His love much more than we could guess.
His kindness is much greater than we can e'er express.
Celebrate our awesome God! Rejoice and give Him praise!
Worship Him with joyous song! All glory to Him raise!
"The Lord taketh pleasure in them that fear him, in those that hope in his mercy."
Psalm 147:11 KJV
"Because thy lovingkindness is better than life, my lips shall praise thee. Thus will I bless thee while I live: I will lift up my hands in thy name."
Psalm 63:3-4 KJV
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sunday, July 10, 2011
The High Road
When a conflict will not cease,
Oft the "high road" brings release.
The high road means to rise above
The factors which would push and shove.
Refusing to become involved
Will cause most conflicts to be solved.
Choosing peace and love instead
Will weave a soft and healing thread.
When unfair treatment tries to rule
The Lord will help us to stay "cool".
He will lead us through each "test".
In Him we have a blessed rest.
"Seek peace, and pursue it."
Psalm 34:14 KJV
"Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath."
James 1:19 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Oft the "high road" brings release.
The high road means to rise above
The factors which would push and shove.
Refusing to become involved
Will cause most conflicts to be solved.
Choosing peace and love instead
Will weave a soft and healing thread.
When unfair treatment tries to rule
The Lord will help us to stay "cool".
He will lead us through each "test".
In Him we have a blessed rest.
"Seek peace, and pursue it."
Psalm 34:14 KJV
"Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath."
James 1:19 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Saturday, July 09, 2011
A Good Listener
As a crystal shines and glistens
Is the soul who truly listens,
Hearing what is in your heart,
Though words have lack of where to start.
One who listens tends to care
About those things you wish to share.
By showing kindness and respect
A loving spirit they reflect.
A soul who listens talks not much
But ferrets out the truth and such,
Giving answer carefully
And sharing wisdom prayerfully.
"Let each of you esteem and look upon and be concerned for not (merely) his own interests, but also each for the interests of others."
Philippians 2:4 Amplified Bible
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Is the soul who truly listens,
Hearing what is in your heart,
Though words have lack of where to start.
One who listens tends to care
About those things you wish to share.
By showing kindness and respect
A loving spirit they reflect.
A soul who listens talks not much
But ferrets out the truth and such,
Giving answer carefully
And sharing wisdom prayerfully.
"Let each of you esteem and look upon and be concerned for not (merely) his own interests, but also each for the interests of others."
Philippians 2:4 Amplified Bible
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Friday, July 08, 2011
A Sweet Savor
Let worship be as a sweet-smelling savor,
Sacrifice offered from hearts which don't waver,
Fragrant and pure to our precious Lord,
For all of the blessings on our lives outpoured.
Let it rise up with joy and thanksgiving,
Blossoming forth, glorious and "living",
Constantly flowing in beauteous expression
Of gratefulness, holiness and intercession.
Let worship rise in sweet exaltation,
Issuing forth through all of creation,
Blanketing all in sweet admonition
To give our great God His due recognition.
"Give unto the Lord the glory due unto his name: bring an offering, and come before him: worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness."
I Chronicles 16:29 KJV
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sacrifice offered from hearts which don't waver,
Fragrant and pure to our precious Lord,
For all of the blessings on our lives outpoured.
Let it rise up with joy and thanksgiving,
Blossoming forth, glorious and "living",
Constantly flowing in beauteous expression
Of gratefulness, holiness and intercession.
Let worship rise in sweet exaltation,
Issuing forth through all of creation,
Blanketing all in sweet admonition
To give our great God His due recognition.
"Give unto the Lord the glory due unto his name: bring an offering, and come before him: worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness."
I Chronicles 16:29 KJV
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Thursday, July 07, 2011
Me?
The problems that I make for me
Are cause for why I am not free.
They should not be a surprise
In times when I have not been wise.
Choices which I make each day
In wisdom I should heed and weigh.
Moving forth without wise thought
Can bring some days with problems fraught.
Should I wonder what went wrong?
Or maybe sing a woeful song?
I should be able to foresee
My biggest problem might be ME!
"Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path."
Psalm 119:105 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Are cause for why I am not free.
They should not be a surprise
In times when I have not been wise.
Choices which I make each day
In wisdom I should heed and weigh.
Moving forth without wise thought
Can bring some days with problems fraught.
Should I wonder what went wrong?
Or maybe sing a woeful song?
I should be able to foresee
My biggest problem might be ME!
"Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path."
Psalm 119:105 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Wednesday, July 06, 2011
Just Come
Do you know the love of God
And how He gave His Son...
That we might have eternal life,
Each and every one?
Have you answered His sweet call
And sought to know the Lord?
Or maybe thought... "I still have time
To change and 'get on board'."
When you do not turn to Him
This message slips away,
And soon you won't remember it.
Other things will fill your day.
Jesus brings Salvation
Which is key to Heaven's gate.
When He knocks upon your door
Just come... don't hesitate.
"Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me."
Revelation 3:20 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
And how He gave His Son...
That we might have eternal life,
Each and every one?
Have you answered His sweet call
And sought to know the Lord?
Or maybe thought... "I still have time
To change and 'get on board'."
When you do not turn to Him
This message slips away,
And soon you won't remember it.
Other things will fill your day.
Jesus brings Salvation
Which is key to Heaven's gate.
When He knocks upon your door
Just come... don't hesitate.
"Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me."
Revelation 3:20 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Tuesday, July 05, 2011
Open My Eyes
Some folks see, but yet are blind.
The obvious facts they cannot find.
How sad that they don't recognize
That spiritual insight makes one wise.
The Holy Spirit aids our vision
And helps us see with great precision,
Seeing through facade and haze
And having bright, unhindered gaze.
By the Spirit we can know
Which words to speak or where to go.
He will open up our sight
And give us wisdom's guiding light.
"Howbeit, when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come."
John 16:13 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
The obvious facts they cannot find.
How sad that they don't recognize
That spiritual insight makes one wise.
The Holy Spirit aids our vision
And helps us see with great precision,
Seeing through facade and haze
And having bright, unhindered gaze.
By the Spirit we can know
Which words to speak or where to go.
He will open up our sight
And give us wisdom's guiding light.
"Howbeit, when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come."
John 16:13 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Monday, July 04, 2011
Guarding Our Freedom
I am grateful for my country
And the freedoms we have had.
We must guard our liberty...
In prayer we must be clad.
Prayer is the avenue
We need to travel now
To offset evil plans and schemes
And cause men's hearts to bow.
God will hear our urgent prayers
And gird us round about.
Prayer will bring us answers.
We must trust and not have doubt.
We have God's own promise,
And He never breaks His Word.
If we take the time to pray
Our prayers will be heard.
"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
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
And the freedoms we have had.
We must guard our liberty...
In prayer we must be clad.
Prayer is the avenue
We need to travel now
To offset evil plans and schemes
And cause men's hearts to bow.
God will hear our urgent prayers
And gird us round about.
Prayer will bring us answers.
We must trust and not have doubt.
We have God's own promise,
And He never breaks His Word.
If we take the time to pray
Our prayers will be heard.
"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
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sunday, July 03, 2011
New Beginnings
No matter what your circumstance
Or what you have come through,
Do not play the "blame game"
Or on not-good memories chew.
Move ahead... do not look back...
Lest bitterness consume.
And then when bitterness sets in
It only brings more gloom.
If self-pity tiries to come
Don't let it hang around.
Self-pity and the blame game
With much "sorriness" abound.
God will give you confidence
And set you on firm ground.
In Him are new beginnings,
Just waiting to be found.
"The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in him, and I am helped; therefore my heart greatly rejoiceth; and with my song will I praise him."
Psalm 28:7-8 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Or what you have come through,
Do not play the "blame game"
Or on not-good memories chew.
Move ahead... do not look back...
Lest bitterness consume.
And then when bitterness sets in
It only brings more gloom.
If self-pity tiries to come
Don't let it hang around.
Self-pity and the blame game
With much "sorriness" abound.
God will give you confidence
And set you on firm ground.
In Him are new beginnings,
Just waiting to be found.
"The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in him, and I am helped; therefore my heart greatly rejoiceth; and with my song will I praise him."
Psalm 28:7-8 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Saturday, July 02, 2011
A Walk Of Peace
I want to walk with footsteps of peace,
Causing dissension to wan and to cease,
Leaving an imprint of soothing and calm,
Establishing joy as sweet, healing balm,
Making a path which others may tread
For those who are weary and filled with much dread...
People who simply don't know where to turn,
But deep in their hearts for happiness yearn.
Lord, help me be a vessel of peace,
Enabling others to find deep release,
That they might know Your stillness and rest
And by Your touch be totally blessed.
"Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. 'Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid'."
John 14:27 KJV
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Causing dissension to wan and to cease,
Leaving an imprint of soothing and calm,
Establishing joy as sweet, healing balm,
Making a path which others may tread
For those who are weary and filled with much dread...
People who simply don't know where to turn,
But deep in their hearts for happiness yearn.
Lord, help me be a vessel of peace,
Enabling others to find deep release,
That they might know Your stillness and rest
And by Your touch be totally blessed.
"Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. 'Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid'."
John 14:27 KJV
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Friday, July 01, 2011
The Greatness Of God
If all the wisdom of the world
Was gathered in one place,
Compared to God's great wisdom
It would fill a tiny space.
Man's perspective needs some help
To realize the size
Of just how big our God is...
And His wisdom recognize.
None could stand before our God
Nor look into His face,
And yet we are the objects
Of His mercy, love and grace.
His wisdom is our covering
To keep us all our days,
To guide us and protect us
From learning "worldly" ways.
By His wisdom through each day
We'll know how to proceed,
Not leaning on our own strength...
Which is really small indeed.
Through His word we can be wise
And move with power and might,
Remembering that He is God...
Our faithful, Guiding Light.
"Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised; and his greatness is unsearchable."
Psalm 145:3 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Was gathered in one place,
Compared to God's great wisdom
It would fill a tiny space.
Man's perspective needs some help
To realize the size
Of just how big our God is...
And His wisdom recognize.
None could stand before our God
Nor look into His face,
And yet we are the objects
Of His mercy, love and grace.
His wisdom is our covering
To keep us all our days,
To guide us and protect us
From learning "worldly" ways.
By His wisdom through each day
We'll know how to proceed,
Not leaning on our own strength...
Which is really small indeed.
Through His word we can be wise
And move with power and might,
Remembering that He is God...
Our faithful, Guiding Light.
"Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised; and his greatness is unsearchable."
Psalm 145:3 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
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