A Special Bond

Thank you, Lord, for those who pray,
Encouragement and love convey,
Whose words uplift and brightness bring,
Who cause us to rejoice and sing!

Bless them, Lord, as they reach out,
For this is what love is about.
With these we have a special bond
In friendship, spirit and beyond.

To be lifted up in prayer
Brings us blessing rich and rare.
For God will listen and give ear
As joined together two draw near.

God has precious blessings stored.
For heart-felt prayer He gives reward.
He is faithful, He is true.
Mighty works for us He'll do.

"Again I say unto you, That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven."
Matthew 18:19 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

An Old Vase

A Prayer

Lord, I sometimes need new "varnish"
So I won't start to tarnish!
"Buff me up" and polish me
So I may truly shine for Thee.

Dust and grime accumulate
And tend to cause a blemished state.
I just need to be "refinished",
Lest my beauty be diminished.

May my silver and my gold
Have new beauty to behold,
For all my worth is found in You.
By Your Spirit make me new.

"Thy hands have made me and fashioned me..."
Psalm 119:73 KJV

"Consider how I love thy precepts: quicken me, O Lord, according to thy lovingkindness."
Psalm 119:159 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Spring Flowers

My garden needs help as the flowers start to show,
But what are these weeds which vigorously grow?
I did not plant them, but somehow they're there,
Looking for space in my flower bed to share.

So I dig and I weed to pull them all out
'Cause my flowers need room to grow and to sprout.
When I've finished my work and my flower bed is done,
I just don't want weeds..... not even one!

Then the slugs and the bugs and the grubworms and ants
Try to come "lunch" on my flowers and plants!
Whenever I see hungry pests such as they,
I chase them away with my dust and my spray!

I feed and I water to make my plants grow.
If I am faithful, they'll make quite a "show".
Each little plant I carefully groom,
'Cause I love my plants..... I see God in each bloom.

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Caring Hands

How warm the hand that reaches out.
This is what love is about.
This hand might touch or heal a heart,
Or maybe joy or strength impart.

Caring hands are such good news
To help another "chase the blues".
When some poor soul just needs a "lift",
A caring hand is as a gift.

A caring hand which dials a phone
To call someone who's all alone
May bring a smile or be a light
To make that person's day be bright.

Hands that care are truly blessed
As they bring others peace or rest.
Loving hands that truly care
Are sometimes hands which answer prayer.

"She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy."
Proverbs 31:20 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

You Are Our Strength

Let our foundations be rebuilt in You.
Let us recover the good and the true.
Help us discern in which way we've made error
And humbly return to a framework of prayer.

Lord, help us reset our sights and our goals,
Lest our present direction take sorrowful tolls.
Forgive us for trying to "do it OUR way"
And not letting You have adequate "say".

We need Your help in this time of great stress
As we undertake the need to address
The challenges caused by our error and pride.
Save us, O God, from evil's ill tide.

Heal our hearts from selfish ambition,
That we might take on a Godly position.
You are our strength and power and might
To help us stand strong for that which is right!

"God is our strength, a very present help in trouble."
Psalm 46:1 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Laughter

It's good to laugh and good to smile.
It helps you get through every trial.
Life is short, so have some fun.
Throw out worries... every one!


Change your outlook, don't look down.
Avoid the blues, refuse to frown!
What you practice every day
Those negatives will soon outweigh!


Your laughter will be advantageous
And be happily contagious!
Others soon will laugh with you,
And they will be more happy too!

"A merry heart doeth good like a medicine..."
Proverbs 17:22 KJV

"Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones."
Proverbs 16:24 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Threads Of Rare Worth

Let the "threads" of my life be pleasant to weave,
Of texture and strength through which You achieve
Design of great beauty without snag or flaw,
A rare work of art which brings You much awe.

What use is my thread if it's tangled or frayed?
What work can be done, or what can be made?
I want to be linen or silk which is fine,
So You then can weave a lovely design.

In Your hands my thread with have value and worth,
As Your rare artistry to beauty gives birth.
You'll carefully make me a "one of a kind".
In Your hands my threads will be beautifully twined.

"Thy hands have made me and fashioned me..."
Psalm 119:73 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Instant In Season

How blessed the man who is "instant in season",
Who is strong in his faith and can give you good reason
Why he is a follower of Jesus as Lord
And tell you about heaven's future reward.

How blessed the man who will pray when you call,
Who "hears" your heart cry and will not let you fall,
Who has the compassion to stand by your side,
Who is gentle in spirit, and in prayer will abide.

How blessed the man who will bring joy to others,
Who goes about doing good deeds for his brothers,
Whose motto is "serving all" those he will meet,
Whose life is like Jesus... in all ways complete.

"But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear....."
I Peter 3:15 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Sparkling Waters

If life were as a cup to be filled,
Then we must be careful and learn to be skilled,
To seek out those waters which foster new life
And run from those waters which only cause strife.

The waters of Jesus are sparkling and clear,
Holy and pure and good to revere.
Only His waters will filter out "stain",
Wash away sin and heal us of pain.

Our cups can be full, without tint or hue,
Of crystal-clear waters which change and renew,
A lifestream of power for spirit and soul
To wash us and cleanse us and make our lives whole.

"But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life."
John 4:14 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Quiet Spirit

A quiet spirit does not race
Or try to keep a certain pace.
It will pause and then reflect
On wisdom learned in retrospect.

It will have much clarity
And see with great transparency.
Birthed in prayer and much-desired,
By God's Word it is inspired.

It's wisdom can't be quickly gained
But through Jesus is sustained.
Quiet wisdom will begin
When His beauty rests within.

"Shew me thy ways, O Lord; teach me thy paths. Lead me in thy truth, and teach me: for thou art the God of my salvation; on thee do I wait all the day."
Psalm 25:4-5 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Grain Of Sand

I am as a grain of sand
In the Master's mighty hand,
But tiny as that grain might be
He never loses sight of me.

In the wind the sand may blow
Or waters wash it to and fro.
But even as a tiny lamb
The Master knows right where I am

He is great... I am so small,
And yet He hears me whan I call.
The Master cares for "grains of sand",
And they are covered by His hand.

"How precious also are thy thoughts unto me, O God! How great is the sum of them! If I should count them, they are more in number than the sand..."
Psalm 139:17-18 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Life's "Brambles"

Confusion scrambles, causing "brambles",
Everywhere it touches down.
It will thrive when people strive
And soon cause everyone to frown.

Douse it's flame... don't play that game.
Choose to turn away from it.
Be slow to speak, but quick to seek
The Lord for answers which befit.

When wisdom rules, confusion "cools",
And turmoil then will dissipate.
For wisdom's peace makes chaos cease
And order will facilitate.

"For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work. But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and with hypocrisy. And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace."
James 3:16-18 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Growth

Growth happens when we aren't aware,
Through God's faithfulness and care,
When we struggle or make error
And when we seek Him with our prayer.

Growth may happen as we "wait"
And as we trust Him for our "fate".
Growth will happen when we fail
Or do not know what makes us ail.

Stumbling blocks and hurdles steep
May cause us to bow down and weep.
We may not know or understand
Events which come or make demand.

In each day we have the chance
To thank our God for circumstance.
As we praise Him He will do
A work within us which is new.

He'll give wisdom over time.
Each "hill" we face He'll help us climb.
He will help us understand
If we trust and take His hand.

If we WANT to, we will grow.
And though the progress may seem slow,
God is faithful to abide.
He'll always be there by our side.

"Being confident of this very trhing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ."
Philippians 1:6 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Springtime's Fun

Springtime blossoms on my tree
Fill my day with smiles and glee,
Dressing up each bare brown limb
With flowers as pretty as a hymn.

After winter's brown and grey,
Springtime seems to smile and say,
"It's time to decorate anew
And paint a sweet bouquet for you!"

She splashes color everywhere
With sweet abandon to declare,
"A bright new season has begun!"
I'm blessed to watch her have such fun!

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Yesteryear's Treasures

I long to "ope" the "cupboards"
Of the folks of yesteryear,
To peek into their daily lives
And conversations hear.

Life then was more simple,
Their priorities more clear.
They worked hard and persevered
With faith which was sincere.

The "cupboards" of these homes
Were filled with wealth and treasure.
Though they were not rich
They had wisdom in great measure.

We can learn a lot today
By looking at "the past"...
To learn of their great treasure
Which they knew would last and last.

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Daily News

When we turn on the news
We're bombarded with trouble
And shaken by scenes
Of destruction and rubble.

We see people suffering
With no place to go.
Those who lost loved ones
With grief are bent low.

And then we hear those
Who point fingers and bicker,
When working together would
Get things done quicker!

This we can do....
With much prayer intercede
For those people who lead
And for people in need.

For our God will help them
This time to get through.
He will strengthen and lead them
To know what to do.

"Give ear, O Lord, to my prayer;
And attend to the voice of my supplications.
In the day of my trouble I will call upon You,
For You will answer me."
Psalm 86:6 NKJ

© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Beautiful Words

This is one of the cries of my heart...
Let beautiful language not be a lost art.
Contemporized lingo is harsh to the ear
And often is not very pleasant to hear.

Beautiful words inspire me within
And draw me away from life's tumult and din.
Let lovely words come and dwell in my soul,
Bringing refreshing and making me whole.

Words are as light and truly a way
Of escape into luxury all through my day.
They are to my spirit a breath of fresh air...
As heavenly music... exquisite and rare.

"A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver."
Proverbs 25:11 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A New Hunger

A Prophecy
March 20, 2008

There is a groundswell happening across the land... of people gathering in prayer, of hearts crying out in hunger for righteousness and truth.

Evil has trampled on goodness and light, and boldly lifted it's head in public arenas. There are many voices in the land which have not spoken truth. God has seen the greed and injustice, the violence and hate. And He has heard the weepings and seen the sufferings of many throughout the land. He has heard the outcry of the hearts of the people. His anger has been stirred, and He will honor the prayers of the saints whose heads are bowed in prayer.

He is truth. He is light. He is able to save, to restore order and bring justice where there has been injustice.

Our God is able!

"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

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

God Cares For You

Our God is able to fix what is broken.
His love is great - it's not just a token
But full of solutions and answers which heal,
Which mend and restore and are very real.

For He, more than anyone, cares about you.
He can untangle what may be askew.
When all seems to fail, He will bring hope,
Give you new courage and help you to cope.

Whisper a prayer, lean on His arm.
Ask Him to take your fear and alarm.
Know that He hears every prayer of your heart.
Our God is able to give you fresh start.

"I waited patiently for the Lord; and he inclined unto me, and heard my cry. He brought me up also out of an horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my feet upon a rock, and established my goings."
Psalm 40:1-2 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Complete In Him

The Lord has given gladness
To overshadow sadness,
Poured out love and joy
To be our constant buoy.

He has given cheer
In place of blues and fear,
And filled us with His peace
Causing restlessness to cease.

He has birthed salvation
To save us from damnation,
Redeemed our sin-sick soul,
Then healed and made us whole.

He covers us with light,
Fills our lives with power and might.
We have courage to stand tall
Whatever may befall.

In His grace we find retreat.
In Him we are complete.
He is Master, Lord and King.
We to Him all glory bring!

"For I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day."
II Timothy 1:12 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Spotless Lamb

Jesus was the spotless Lamb,
Pure and holy, white as snow,
The sacrifice of greatest worth,
The greatest love we'll ever know.

This One Who reached out to all men
And walked in great humility
Became the Lamb Who bore our sin...
The hope for all humanity.

We cannot fathom such a love
Nor comprehend His glorious ways,
But worship Him with all our heart
And serve Him all our days.

Jesus was the spotless Lamb,
Pure and holy, white as snow,
The sacrifice of greatest worth,
The greatest love we'll ever know.


"We were not redeemed with corruptible things.....
but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a
lamb without blemish and without spot."
I Peter 1:18a, 19 NKJ

© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Eternal Treasure

Earthly goods have no real worth...
To heav'nly life cannot give birth.
Heaven's treasure is priceless gain...
The highest prize we can attain.

All we have will pale and dim
As we see Christ and worship Him.
What joy will come within the soul
As we shall reach our heavenly goal.

No more tears and no more strife,
Which often touch our present life,
But fellowship before the throne
With Christ and those who are His own.


"If we suffer, we shall also reign with him....."
II Timothy 2:12 KJV


© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Foot Of The Cross

Any and all may come....

A place where all are equal....
A place where one can be transparent....
A safe place....

A place of rest for a weary soul....
A place of release for a broken heart....
A place of comfort for the lonely and the hurting....
A place of redemption from sin and shame....

A new beginning....


THE CROSS

Is our friend....
Is an anchor point in a shaky world....


"Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him, endured the cross, despising the shame, and has set down at the right hand of the throne of God."
Hebrews 12:1-2 NKJ



© 2003 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Garden Of Prayer

A Vision

The place of prayer is as a lovely garden, pleasing in every way to the eye, to the senses and to the spirit... a place of enveloping peace.

As I enter in and begin to walk there I am deeply aware of it's loveliness. Everywhere there is loveliness. The pathways are soft under my feet, and my footsteps feel cushioned by the softness. The air is pure and fresh, and the prettiness of flowers and trees is very soothing. The beauty of the setting penetrates my very being.

Though I have entered there alone, I do not feel alone. As I gaze at the extraordinary creativity of our loving God I am filled with wonder. I am so drawn to Him, and my soul is flooded with thanksgiving. For I realize, as I see all this beauty, that I am looking at the very nature of God. I am looking at His heart. The garden has great depth of expression, endless color and variety... more than the eye can take in and more than the senses can absorb. And I sense that around every bend in the path there will be more wonder and awe.

The path will not end, for in prayer there will always be more of God to discover. I know that no matter how much time I spend in the garden, there will always be more. Only a loving God would provide that much beauty just to bless me. I realize that He resides in loveliness... it is His nature. And He invites me to freely enter in... the gate is always open.

"Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore."
Psalm 16:11 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Heaven's Touch

A Blessing

May you find an open door,
More than e'er you had before,
To enter Heaven's "store"
And God's riches to explore.

May your heart be upward-trained
And your joy be uncontained.
May new giftings there be gained
And your footsteps be ordained!

May your dreams be realized
And your blessings be "up"-sized,
Your spirit energized
And of Heaven's wealth comprised.

"Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning."
James 1:17 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Palm Sunday

IN REMEMBRANCE OF THE CROSS

It's good to have remembrance
Of the cross and He Who died,
Who gave His life that we with Him
Forever might abide.

The cross for Him was heavy,
And the road He trod was long
As He became redemption
For our sin and for our wrong.

It's good to bow in reverence
And contemplate the cross,
To realize how great His love
So we would not have loss.

Blessed Savior of Mankind,
We offer sweet oblation
Of glory, laud and honor
To express our adoration.

"Every day will I bless thee; and I will praise thy name for ever and ever."
Psalm 145:2 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Responding In Love

When "feathers get ruffled" and "fur starts to fly",
When things have gone wrong and tension is high,
Don't let emotion have rule in your day,
For "reaction" will build and add fuel to the fray.

Be slow to anger and be slow to speak.
It's best to be quiet, lest havoc you wreak.
A well-thought-out answer will soothe and correct,
Will bring understanding and anger deflect.

Diplomacy, measured with love and good will,
Will overcome strife with kindness and skill.
Responding in love will console and bring healing...
A wonderful way to establish good feeling.

"A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger."
Proverbs 15:1 KJV

"Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath: for the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God."
James 1:19-20 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Peace And Calm

How blessed is God's peace and calm,
Flowing as refreshing balm.
It rests in place throughout my day
And shields me from the usual "fray".

As I lean upon His Word
He is there to undergird.
He keeps me steady by His hand
My daily struggles to withstand.

His Word is manna for my soul,
Healing, soothing, making whole
The broken pieces of each day...
My reinforcement and my "stay".

"Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee."
Isaiah 26:3 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Little Boy's Dilemma

I don't like chores... I want to play!
I wish the work would go away!
It should wait until I'm through
With all the things I WANT to do.

But when I've played with car and truck
And then still have my chores... Oh, yuck!
They're worse to do whan I am tired.
Then I'm REALLY not inspired!

Work is simply not much fun.
I'd rather draw or play or run.
I should learn to not make messes.
Then I won't have these distresses.

Being neat is quite a job,
And "cleaning up" my time will rob.
(I should give away some stuff.
It seems I have more than enough.)

I will put my things away,
For I'm learning every day...
If I hurry and get done,
I'll have more time to just have fun!

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Prayer Warriors

There is an army in the land...
Precious saints who pray and "stand",
Warriors of power and might
Who use the Word to war and fight,

Pushing back the evil tide
Of death and darkness which reside,
Rising up to take command,
Joined in heart and hand-in-hand.

God is calling young and old
To join His army and be bold,
Breaking strongholds, gaining ground,
Forging victory, upward bound.

"Through God we shall do valiantly; for he it is that shall tread down our enemies."
Psalm 108:13 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

God Is My Strength

God is my strength in times when I'm weak.
He is my voice when I cannot speak.
For words sometimes fail, but He is right there
To give me good wisdom and save me from "snare".

His peace is a bulwark when I tend to fear.
There I find rest and my qualms disappear.
He is well able to carry me through
When I simply don't know just what I should do.

His Spirit guides me. In Him I can stand
And find my direction when life makes demand.
In Him I'm fulfilled. He answers my plea
To rise up in strength to the best I can be.

"The Lord will perfect that which concerneth me..."
Psalm 138:8 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Making Change

When I get ready to make change
There are some things I want to keep.
And so I sort through all I have,
And still I seem to have "a heap".

I think I've pared down what I need
To move into new "territory",
But when I get there I discover
This was just "preparatory".

When Jesus leads me in His path,
More and more I start to "see".
He will give me new perspective
And help me truly to be free.

Some of that which I have kept
Does not have value (as I thought).
As He changes who I am
Some things have value, some have nought.

My thoughts and actions every day
Are very much a part of this.
Excess "baggage" from the past
Could cause my life to go amiss.

Jesus simplifies my path
And shows me what I need to do.
He brings refreshing to my life
And helps me keep a balanced view.

"But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord."
II Corinthians 3:18 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Distractions

We sometimes get "caught up" in thoughts or routine
Which deter us from being spiritually keen.
Multiplied things will vie for attention,
So we must think clearly and practice "prevention".

Our focus gets scrambled... or purpose delayed.
E'en good things we do may be masquerade
To cloud our discernment and get us off-track.
Then we must think how to find our way back...

To that which we set out to do at the start,
Before mere distraction made "plans" fall apart.
When we keep our thoughts on goals of import,
Then we will not find ourselves "coming up short".

The Spirit will guide us and keep us on course.
If we heed His voice we won't have remorse
Or miss what He's doing... a very high cost!
It's best to stay tuned... lest perception be lost!

"See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is."
Ephesians 5:15-17 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Heart Imprints

The heart bears the imprint we carry in life...
The joy or the pain, the rest or the strife.
Salvation and praise will cause it to flourish.
The wealth of God's Word it's heartbeat will nourish.

It's not meant to carry sin, guilt and shame,
But living for Jesus it's health will reclaim.
It surely will ail if we do not forgive,
But loving and sharing will cause it to live.

Kindness and goodness bring radiant good health.
Patience and gentleness will add great wealth.
Peace and longsuffering cause anguish to cease.
The fruits of the Spirit bring precious increase.

"But the fruit of the spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law."
Galatians 5:22 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Soft-Fallen Rain

When standing alone in a difficult place,
Needing support and a measure of grace,
An expression of love from a gentle, kind hand
Is as soft-fallen rain on a dry, weary land...

For experience of living can take a harsh toll,
Can wear down and weary the most faithful soul.
But the burden is softened and made to feel light
When friends gather round and in prayer will unite.

How welcome a smile or a telephone call,
A hug or a flower... however small.
Showing concern for that one who's alone
Is a much greater gift than will ever be known.


"A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity."
Proverbs 17:17 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

His Glorious Colors

God created color
And splashed it everywhere.
Man could never match His skill
Nor paint with that much flair.

Color "speaks" and brings us joy,
Delighting us at every turn,
Blessing us with fresh surprise.
This bounteous gift we could not earn.

God's color palette speaks of love
In many different shades and hues.
Mixed and matched with joy and grace
Our hearts and lives He gently woos.

His glorious vivid colors are
A brilliant potpourri of praise...
To paint a message of His love
And set our hearts ablaze.

"Praise him for his mighty acts: praise him according to his excellent greatness."
Psalm 150:2 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Echoes

That which we live and that which we speak
Will be echoed in time in a way that's unique.
The sound of one voice will be heard in another,
And our words will "return" through a sister or brother.

For we leave a trail as we live day-to-day
Which others will walk on as they find their way.
The "sounds" of our lives echo back o'er and o'er,
For they are not lost, but in others find "store".

If we watch and listen we'll hear a reply
In far-reaching echoes we cannot deny.
Echoes reverberate more than we know,
Extending our lives as they move to and fro...


"A man hath joy by the answer of his mouth: and a word spoken in due season, how good is it!"
Proverbs 15:23 KJV

"A good man leaveth an inheritance to his children's children....."
Proverbs 13:22 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Godly Counsel

Sometimes we feel our opinions are right.
If some don't agree then we get all uptight.
Then over time we see we were wrong.
Hindsight will show us we erred all along.

"Life" and experience are very good teachers
But may bring hard knocks for "rebellious creatures"!
Until we are "seasoned" and full of God's grace
We won't have the wisdom His path to embrace.

Our hard work is lost, our time may be spent,
And we may have thought that we were content.
Through God we can find our very best plan.
He'll help us complete what He first began.

"Without counsel purposes are disappointed: but in the multitude of counsellors they are established."
Proverbs 15:22 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

An Open Heaven

A Prophetic Poem
February 28, 2008

What has been lost will soon be returned.
What has been hidden will be discerned.
What has been "stuck" will find itself loosed
As God pours out blessings to give us a "boost".

That which is "fogged" shall be crystal clear.
Rough edges will fade and softness appear.
"Storms" and fatigue shall be in the past
As God pours out goodness and blessings which last.

The heavens shall open and we shall have light
To fill us with fervor and power and might.
We shall rise up with strength for the morrow
As God shall relieve all tears and all sorrow.

Look to the heavens, look to the skies!
Let worship and praise to our God arise!
Let all our expression be celebratory!
We stand at the door of a season of glory!

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Quiet Wisdom

Wisdom may be silent
Or hesitant to speak.
It weaves it's way through circumstance
And always it will seek...

Answers which may be unseen.
It will not be misled.
Until perspective has found place
It will not move ahead.

Wisdom gathers in the heart,
And when it's verbalized
It's beauty translates outwardly
In treasure to be prized.

I listen for the treasure
And cling to each sweet word
As I contemplate and savor
Gentle wisdom I have heard.

"Wisdom rests silently in the mind and heart of him who has understanding..."
Proverbs 14:33 Amplified Bible

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Spring's Flair

The hint of spring is in the air...
Waiting now to bloom,
Anxious to put on her show
Of blossom and perfume.

Twigs and stalks and bulbs alike
Are swelling with fresh vigor,
Ready to burst forth in cheer
As spring pulls her sweet trigger.

She will wrap the trees in "fluff"
In her usual happy style,
And suddenly the ground will swell
As bulbs push up with sunny smile.

Folks perk up and come awake,
Anticipating spring's fresh flair.
Winter's "nap" is soon forgotten
As spring's music fills the air!


© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Something New

It just is not fun to be pushed to one side
Or stuck in one place, e'en though we have tried.
It's good to "re-group" and think all this through.
This may be God saying He has something new.

Unless God has led us to stay in that place,
Then we should pray for leading... and grace.
He's faithful to show us each step of the way
And help us make change as we seek to obey.

We may need fresh outlook or attitude change.
Whatever the need He will help us long-range.
He has the answers which we cannot see.
We can lean on His arm, for He holds he key.

"Trust in the Lord with all thine heart: and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths."
Proverbs 3:5-6 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

My Hiding Place

Lord, You are my hiding place,
Where I may come to rest,
Where I find peace and comfort
When I'm weary and hard-pressed.

You are joy and happiness
In the midst of pain,
An oasis of refreshing...
To offset daily "drain".

You bring balance and perspective
Which I sorely need,
Guiding me through circumstance
When I'm not "up to speed".

In Your presence I'm renewed.
My time with You is sweet.
And then I'm able to go on...
By Your strength I am complete.


"Thou art my hiding place; thou shalt preserve me from trouble; thou shalt compass me about with songs of deliverance."
Psalm 32:7 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

God's Season Of Change

A Prophecy
February 7, 2008

God is making change. This is a period of transition...

Some things are ending, some things are "getting fixed" so that we can go on. The "old" is passing away. We should not try to linger in the old place but move with the new flow and momentum which God is giving us. Old doors will shut. New doors will open.

He is freeing some of long-term burdens. He is freeing up time for those who will listen and wish to serve Him. He will answer questions of long standing - perhaps not as we expect but in a way which will facilitate our moving forward in His purpose.

Situations which have been out of balance will find new balance. God will give insight where issues have been clouded.

Be at peace with what He is doing, but stay alert, and you will surely see God moving in your midst.


© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Short Circuits

Sometimes in our lives, because of circumstances or difficulties, "short circuits" begin to happen. Events that happen to us sometimes cause "breakdown" of areas in our personalities and emotions, our thought patterns and spirits. And then our perspective becomes imbalanced or warped or unclear. These "short circuits" cause malfunction and they can rob us of love and joy and even our health and relationships. They sometimes are subtle and happen just a little bit at a time, going unnoticed at first, but nevertheless having impact.

Life is full of challenges and difficulties, but it is important to recognize the enemy's intent in these times and not let him rob us in any way. Whatever our circumstance, God is able to heal and restore us and to keep us balanced. His power is more than equal to any short circuits which happen in our lives.

In Him we have the victory!!!


"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

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Neighbors

I reached out to a neighbor...
And heard, "That's nice of you."
I told her that I really felt,
"It's just the thing to do!"

Neighbors should show caring
When they see a real need.
All I did was feed their cat
And said I'd intercede.

Her brother's life was "on the line".
He truly needed prayer.
I could have looked the other way
And chosen not to care...

But people need each other.
It's right to be aware
And lend a helping hand...
To cheer them on by "being there".

"Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself."
Romans 13:9 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Eternal Treasure

Earthly goods have no real worth...
To heav'nly life cannot give birth.
Heaven's treasure is priceless gain...
The highest prize we can attain.

All we have will pale and dim
As we see Christ and worship Him.
What joy will come within the soul
As we shall reach our heavenly goal.

No more tears and no more strife,
Which often touch our present life,
But fellowship before the throne
With Christ and those who are His own.


"If we suffer, we shall also reign with him....."
II Timothy 2:12 KJV


© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

My Very Best

A Children's Poem

I must do my very best
In everything I try.
When others notice what I do
Then I can tell them "why".

Everything I do
Should be orderly and nice.
If I get it right the first time,
I won't have to do it twice!

I'm really going to work at this
While I'm a young beginner.
And later on as I grow up
Then I will be a winner!


© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

God's Comfort

When you have suffered loss
Or you're weary in travail...
When you have sought solutions
But still to no avail...

God will help you in this time.
He will hear your prayers.
He will lift your heavy heart
From sorrow and from cares.

He brings comfort beyond words
Deep within the soul.
His compassion and His strength
Bring peace against life's toll.

May He lift your heavy burdens
And wash weariness away.
May He give you calm assurance
And bless you day-to-day.

"Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light."
Matthew 11:28-30 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Listening Ear

Sometimes the Lord will send up a "red flag",
And we "drag our feet" and some time then will lag
Before we respond to the words that He said,
Forgetting, or doing "our own thing" instead.

Jesus is faithful to guard and to guide
If we will just listen and forego our pride.
We may not know just what He has in mind,
But He'll make our path clear and quite well-defined.

To wait on His voice and to heed His clear call
Often will save us from what could befall.
To follow His lead when we're facing a test
Will save us much grief and prove to be best.

"My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me..."
John 10:27 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Walk Softly

As we travel down life's paths,
We form mindsets and ideas.
But in spite of what we've learned,
We may not have life's panaceas.
(Walk softly.)

Till we've lived through many seasons
We do not have full perspective.
Facing hardships, working long,
Cause us to be more reflective.
(Learning to walk softly...)

Experience teaches us to pray
And humbly seek our God each day.
For this is where we start to "see"
And "eye-scales" start to fall away.
(Our footsteps soften.)

Hindsight brings an overview
And shows us who we need to be.
Over time we change and grow
And then we see reality...
(And the need to walk softly.)

"And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you."
Ephesians 4:32 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Enough Space

Whenever I drive on highways or freeways I try to be especially aware of what is around me and how much "space" I have. Twice in one morning others got in my space and compromised my safety.

I was driving on the freeway in the right lane when all of a sudden, in my rear view mirror, I saw a car shift into my lane behind me. This car was dangerously close and I thought he was going to hit me. He had a transport truck following right on his bumper and was trying to get out of the way of the truck. But just as he shifted in behind me traffic in front of me slowed and I had to hit the brakes. I fully expected to be rear-ended, but God kept me safe.

That same morning, coming back home on the freeway I was again travelling in the right lane, this time with a loaded dump truck and trailer in the lane to my left. I was keeping an eye on the dump truck when all of a sudden I realized a transport truck with a long flatbed was passing me on the right... ON THE SHOULDER OF THE ROAD. He had come up behind me and I didn't see him coming. Now I was caught between two large trucks. There wasn't enough space for the flatbed truck to pass, but somehow God made space. A moment or two later I saw this same truck jump lanes up ahead and nearly hit several other vehicles. Surely God had set angels all around me!

Even as in everyday situations, when we see potential problems up ahead usually we can make adjustment. But when the potential hazard is coming from behind we are much more vulnerable. We just may not see the problem coming, and we are totally dependent upon God for our safety.

Every morning I pray over my car and all the roads where I will travel and ask God to keep me safe. He has faithfully answered that prayer many times for me. He has provided "space" where there was not enough space each time danger has come near!

When we call upon Him He will answer and keep us safe. We have an awesome God!!!

"He shall call upon me, and I will answer him: I will be with him in trouble: I will deliver him, and honour him."
Psalm 91:15 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Presidents' Day

THANK YOU, MR. PRESIDENT

Mr. President, I would like to convey
My thanks to you this Presidents' Day,
For bearing the load of leading this nation,
For giving your life without "break" or vacation.

May God continue to help you stand strong
And give you much wisdom against all that's wrong.
May He be your Shield and your Buckler each day,
May His angels protect you in every way.

No one can guess just how heavy your load
Nor know just how difficult might be your road.
May God give you courage as you forge ahead.
May you hear His voice and by His hand be led.


© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Tiny Trees

Children are as "seedlings"...
As tiny growing trees,
With tender, spreading boughs
Swaying in the breeze.

With nurture they will grow strong roots,
With trunk and limb of swelling size.
And they will grow in inner strength
As of wisdom they apprise.

As they grow in stature
And mature into strong trees,
They'll give shade or bear good fruit.
They lives will surely please.

In every season of their growth
Each tree will be a blessing.
And by the nature of their lives
God's praise will be expressing.

"Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.."
Proverbs 22:6 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Life Seasons

Seasons of waiting, seasons of rest,
Seasons of growth, or seasons which test,
Seasons of blossom, seasons of glory...
Each of these seasons will speak it's own story.

Each one in it's time will build us and shape us.
When God brings a season, it will be a "plus".
He is our Guide, and we're not flying blind.
We're "safe" in our seasons when by Him they're signed.

In each of His seasons is much we can learn.
The wisdom He gives is a rich prize to earn.
In this we are thankful and take time to pause.
All of God's seasons are for a good cause.

"My times are in thy hand..."
Psalm 31:15 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Friendship's Warm Smile

The blessings of a friendship warm
Bring joys which offset trial and storm.
It's laughter and bright treasure "store"
Are as a cheerful reservoir...

Of memories which bring much joy
And to one's spirit are a "buoy".
Friendship brings ability
To smile and have tranquility.

How rich the bond in friendship's gift!
How sweet it's loving, gentle "lift"...
Like a fragrant potpourri
Or pretty, lilting melody...

Bringing many smiles within,
Causing one to have a grin.
For friendship rests within the heart
And precious blessings will impart.

"A friend loveth at all times..."
Proverbs 17:17 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Heart Prayer

Lord, give me a heart that is pure and true-blue,
One that is gentle and loving clear through,
Transparent and holy, peace-loving and kind,
Given to prayer and "service"-inclined.

Let harmony, peace and quietness "rest",
Let graciousness flow to meet every test,
With mercy and tenderness shown unto all,
Rejoicing in You in things big and small.


"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance..."
Galatians 5:22-23 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Love Encourages

Everybody needs to know
That someone somewhere cares for them.
Though that one be near or far
Their love is as a precious gem.

It's presence is as gold and myrrh,
It's worth is more than can be told...
A precious gift between two hearts
Which can't be bought and won't be sold.

It sparks new life and buoys one up,
Bringing joy and warmth within.
It often brings the courage
Which enables one to "soar" and win.

That one who's loved will often smile,
Knowing there is one who cares,
For love expressed in little ways
A priceless crown of beauty wears.

"A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity."
Proverbs 17:17 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Heirlooms Of Worth

What heritage can I leave
When my days and hours are spent?
Will the message of my life
Change the world or "make a dent"?

Will the "heirlooms" of my life
Have some value or some worth?
Will the seeds which I have planted
In someone's life give birth?

My prayers are that I will not miss
The doors that God would ope,
To really make a difference,
To bring light and to bring hope.

God brings opportunity
To change the world for good.
I want to leave an "imprint"
And accomplish all I should.

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Great Lady

In Memory Of My Mother
Elsie Lena Franzel
May 4, 1906 - February 11, 2007


When asked for her thoughts on just how to live,
She had some really good answers to give.
The first one was "Do what you know is right."
She lived by this daily with all of her might.

Working and "serving" wherever she was,
She tirelessly gave to others because...
She just couldn't seem to do any less.
She wouldn't ignore one who might have distress.

She often said, "Live so you'll have no regrets."
This was just one of her life's sermonettes.
By the work of her hands and her actions each day
Her life spoke volumes of wisdom to weigh.

She may have been small... the shortest of all,
But in memory she always will stand very tall.
She never had wealth but lived her life well.
She leaves rich reminiscence to tell and re-tell.

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Love Can

Love can heal a broken heart
And wash away a tear
...or two... or three.
Love breaks down the barriers
And helps us with our fear...
...and sets us free.

Love can fill an empty heart
Where loneliness has been...
...day-to-day.
Love restores and gives new life,
Bringing joy and warmth again...
...to stay ...to stay.

Love transforms and changes lives,
Causing a "new day" to dawn...
...refreshing as the dew.
Love is the great healer, bringing
Bright new hope to build upon...
...for me... for you.

"Many waters cannot quench love, neither can the floods drown it..."
Song of Solomon 8:7 KJV

"There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear..."
I John 4:18 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Staying Focused

God gives direction and guides by His hand
To help us accomplish those things He has planned.
We must be careful lest purpose is lost.
When purpose is gone, then lives are storm-tossed.

If focus is blurred or sometimes delayed
And we don't complete the plans He has made,
We may have missed His blessings for us.
Victories in lives are forfeited thus.

God is our helper... to keep us on track.
In Him is no want or wandering or lack.
He is our strength, our shield and our friend.
He gives us purpose... on Him we depend.

"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

Manna

Gentle manna from the Lord,
Provision for our every need,
Sustenance from heaven above
Our spirit and our soul to feed...

Gift and favor from God's hand,
Benefit in rich supply...
His faithfulness will never fail.
As we wait He will draw nigh.

Manna is divinely given.
We do not know and can't perceive
How it becomes reality.
And yet it comes when we believe.

"And when the children of Israel saw it, they said one to another, It is manna: for they wist not what it was. And Moses said unto them, This is the bread which the Lord hath given you to eat."
Exodus 16:15 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Heart Full Of Flowers

In the landscape of the heart...
Are there flowers growing there?
Will the seeds which have been planted
Thrive and bring good blooms to bear?

If the seedlings are well tended
They will have strong root and stem.
With "watering" and careful nurture
Love will blossom forth from them,

Blessing others by their beauty,
Spilling fragrance all around.
When the Lord works in the garden
Love and kindness will abound.

"A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things."
Matthew 12:35 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Blood Of Jesus

Just one drop of blood
Was enough for all time
To redeem man from sins...
Ugly stain, spot and grime.

One drop of His blood
Was so filled with power,
It reached from the cross
Into this very hour.

As fresh as the day
It was shed on the "tree"
Is the power of His "healing"
For you and for me.

Just one drop of blood,
Spilled out with great love,
Brings eternal life
From the Father above.

"For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell; and having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth or things in heaven."
Colossians 1:19-20 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

For Moms And Dads

Children by example learn
And your approval want to earn.
They will mimic all you do
(And things you "hide", they'll see right through).

A child's life is as a mirror.
Who you are will grow much clearer.
He will learn all that he ought...
Life's valued lessons which you've taught.

He most delights in Mom and Dad,
And family times will make him glad.
Here he will be more content
And start to be more confident.

His family is his very best asset
To guide him through life's every facet.
What he learns at home will mold
And stay with him e'en when he's old.

Mom and Dad, give him good start.
Into his life God's truths impart.
He then will live on higher plane
And much more worthy goals attain.

"Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it."
Proverbs 22:6 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Safe Course

How much we need the Lord
To help us know what's right,
To help us be discerning
And for righteousness to fight.

How much we need the Lord
To chart for us a course
Of wisdom, truth and balance
And to be our constant source.

For He will "steer our ship"
Through danger and through toil.
He will guard our "borders"
And our enemies will foil.

He will hear our pleas
If on Him we will rely.
He will be our strength
When to Him our hearts draw nigh.

"Every way of a man is right in his own eyes..."
Proverbs 21:2 KJV

"The counsel of the Lord standeth for ever, the thoughts of his heart to all generations. Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord; and the people whom he hath chosen for his own inheritance."
Psalm 33:11-12 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Treasure Store

The faithful man of God
In righteousness will walk.
The conduct of his heart
Is reflected in his talk.

Wisdom and discernment
Form an excellence which shows.
He is richly filled
With a joy that overflows.

His strength is found in God
As he reads the Word and prays.
He takes to heart God's leading
And in close communion stays.

How beautiful the life
Of a man who serves the Lord,
For he has boundless riches.
God's treasures there are stored.

"But his delight is in the law of the Lord; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper."
Psalm 1:2-3 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Heaven's Harmony

Music in my spirit flows,
Harmony of worship grows,
Bursting forth in songs of praise.
Constantly the music plays!

Hearing many angel voices,
Deep within my soul rejoices,
Causing me to want to sing
And to God all glory bring!

Heaven's music, rare and sweet,
Is a place of prized retreat,
Where I may step into God's presence,
Pause and rest and give Him reverence.

"And he hath put a new song in my mouth, even praise unto our God..."
Psalm 40:3 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Grand Heritage

Listen to the "oldsters"...
To what they have to say,
For they can tell you many stories
From a bygone day.

Their memories are treasure stores
Of happenings "way back when".
History books will not divulge
How life was lived back then.

Folks were often farmers
With cattle and with field,
Who labored long and hard each day
To gain a harvest yield.

Women knitted clothes and quilts
To keep their families warm.
Children learned The Golden Rule...
In schools this was "the norm".

People lived on what they had
And valued every dollar.
Students read and studied hard
With aim to be "a scholar".

Families were closer then...
They prayed and worked together.
Because they usually were close-knit,
Most "storms' they then could weather.

For those who only know about
The culture of today,
It's good to delve into the past
And our heritage survey.

We should not "lose" this era
Which speaks much to us today.
Our "oldsters" had great riches
Which are really not "passe".

"The glory of young men is their strength, and the beauty of old men is their gray head (suggesting wisdom and experience)."
Proverbs 20:29 Amplified Bible


© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Complacency

He who is complacent
Is self-focused to a fault.
He's really rather comfortable,
And his reasons will exalt.

He doesn't see the need for change.
He's pleased with self... and smug.
He's closed his eyes to truth,
Is content and feeling "snug".

His eyes are blind, his ears are deaf,
His mind is clouded o'er.
He simply likes the way he is,
And change will not explore.

Complacency will always fail.
It has no firm foundation.
But if it opes it's shackled eyes
Will find sound motivation.

"Therefore shall they eat of the fruit of their own way, and be filled with their own devices."
Proverbs 1:31 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Hidden In His Peace

When thoughts are whirling in my head
And pressures start to build,
I pause to focus on the Lord.
And by His peace I'm "stilled".

If I'm rushed He keeps me steady
So I'm on "the cutting edge".
I do not feel ruffled,
For His peace is as a "hedge"...

Surrounding me in all I do,
Bringing calm within...
A blessed, sweet oasis
From confusion and from din.

The peace He gives is as a shield,
A hidden place of rest.
By His peace I'm comforted
And very, very blessed.

"Thou art my hiding place; thou shalt preserve me from trouble; thou shalt compass me about with songs of deliverance."
Psalm 32:7 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Healing Words

Have you ever noticed
How a soft word brings a smile...
How kindness of expression
Seeks to "go the second mile"?

Even though the words we hear
May not be very pleasant.
Kindness and a soft approach
Will show that love is present.

A smile can show acceptance
And encourage one who's down.
Gentle words can heal
And erase another's frown.

This may not be easy
If the other won't "relate",
And yet it's really worth a try...
You'll find that the rewards are great!

"A soft answer turneth away wrath....."
Proverbs 15:1 KJV

"A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver."
Proverbs 25:11 KJV

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Change

It may not be the best idea
To bring about a change
Of patterns which we know and have
For something new and strange.

We should look at what has worked
And move in that direction,
Eliminating what has not
And working toward correction.

We must guard our strong foundation,
Seek to make it better,
Carefully weighing what is new,
Not becoming "Change's" debtor.

Wisdom, truth and righteousness
Will always work long-range.
Adhering to these principles
Will bring the brightest change.

"The counsel of the Lord standeth for ever, the thoughts of his heart to all generations. Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord; and the people whom he hath chosen for his own inheritance."
Psalm 33:11-12 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Running Our Race

As we jump o'er hurdles and run in our "race",
We rest in God's mercy, encouraged by grace.
He never forsakes us to run all alone
But is close by our side when our path is unknown.

How faithful His watchcare in all that we do.
His covering prevents life from going askew.
He gives us courage and strength when we're weak,
When mountains are high and valleys look bleak.

He always is there to lend us a hand,
To cheer and inspire us and help us to stand.
When we face a challenge which we must transcend
We find we can do it, 'cause He is our friend.

"Because he hath set his love upon me, therefore will I deliver him: I will set him on high, because he hath known my name. He shall call upon me, and I will answer him. With long life will I satisfy him, and shew him my salvation."
Psalm 91:14-16 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Better With Age

The little man was weary
And could not walk as fast.
He now limped and worried
That his usefulness was past.

He had lived through many-a-change
And travelled many miles.
His life was rich in treasure...
He had triumphed over trials.

So his value did not hinge
On his physical well-being.
He had wisdom deep within,
And this was very freeing.

So he shared with those he met
About the joy of living,
Of reaching out to others
And learning to be giving.

Even though he now moved slow
His purpose would increase.
He could say, "I'm doing well".
Helping others brought him peace.

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

"Simple" Is Better

"Simple" is better...
It often is best.
When things get complex
We sometimes can't rest.

Planning ahead
Is a good place to start.
Then things won't pile up
And we won't "fall apart".

We tend to have much...
And want even more,
And all of our "stuff"
Becomes one great big chore!

Our schedules push us
And just wear us out.
We sometimes lose track
Of what life's all about.

If we take stock
We will probably find...
"Simple" is better...
It brings peace of mind!


© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

His Lovingkindness

God's love can plumb
The depths of a soul
To touch what is there
And make a life whole.

It's never too late
To make a life change.
Whatever is needed
Our God can arrange.

Never give up
Or "throw in the towel".
Don't let discouragement
Cause you to "foul".

When you're bent low
Or can't face tomorrow,
He'll fill you with hope
And take all your sorrow.

Lift up your eyes
To the Father above.
Receive of His goodness,
Receive of His love.

"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. My soul shall be satisfied as with marrow and fatness; and my mouth shall praise thee with joyful lips."
Psalm 63:3-5 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

God Is Our Helper

If man does you wrong
It is God's place to judge.
Let Him take your burden,
But don't hold a grudge.

Our God is able
To sort out the wrongs,
But our "feeble" efforts
The trouble prolongs.

If one does you wrong
Rely on God's grace.
Don't hamper His efforts
Or get in "His space".

Lay down your pride
And bow at His feet.
Let Him be the judge
And recompense mete.

"When a man's ways please the Lord, he maketh even his enemies to be at peace with him."
Proverbs 16:7 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Service - A Gift Of Love

Service is a lovely gift...
A blessing for another.
It sees and meets a real need
For neighbor, boss or brother.

Reaching out with loving hands,
It sends a big smile from the heart.
Serving with compassion
Is a very precious art.

It seeks to put another first,
Not thinking of itself as "best".
To satisfy another's needs
Is it's focus and it's quest.

A gentle sensitivity
Flows throughout it's being,
Causing it to have perception
And to be far-seeing.

What a blessing, what a gift,
For family or friend...
To wear a servant's mantle
And acts of kindness lend.

The lowliest of tasks performed
The greatest gift may be.
Servanthood translates
Into a word, L-O-V-E.

"By love serve one another."
Galatians 5:13 KJV


© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Reach Out To Jesus

If your life is in torment, your heart is bent low,
Your happiness waned, with naught left to show...
Reach out to Jesus....just whisper a prayer.
When you reach out you will find He is there.

If you have reached the depths of despair
And are so worn out that you almost don't care...
Reach out to Jesus and whisper a prayer.
Your load He will carry, your burden He'll bear.

In Him there is hope and peace which is real.
He'll reach out to help you and hear your appeal.
Reach out to Jesus and whisper a prayer.
The answers you need you will always find there.

"Cast your burden upon the Lord, and He shall sustain thee: he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved."
Psalm 55:22 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Size Of God's Love

How can we measure the size of God's love?
It's depth and it's width are simply beyond
That which our thinking can e'er hope to grasp.
We simply reach up and to Him respond.

All that we have is from His own hand.
He showers us daily with mercy and grace.
In all of our ways He guides and protects us.
We simply need rest in His mighty embrace.


"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

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Fun Playground

A Children's Poem

It would be fun
To swing on a star,
To climb up on moonbeams
And see from afar,

To run all about
On a cloud of white fluff,
Or just ride around
When the wind blows a puff,

And maybe on moonbeams
To slide and to ski.
I might find stardust
To bring home with me.

The sky is a playground
Which I want to see...
A whole new fun place...
It would fill me with glee!


© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

His Yoke Is Easy

Sometimes the yokes that we bear are too much,
But there is no yoke which our Savior can't touch.
We need only ask Him to carry our load.
We're not meant to live in an "over-taxed" mode.

Sometimes the yokes that we carry are wrong...
When we take them on then we struggle along.
We should ask God what we're meant to bear,
For He will not give us more than our share.

What others put on us will only cause stress.
These are not burdens which we should address.
Our God will show us what truly is ours,
And by grace He will save us from that which devours.


"Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light."
Matthew 11:28-30 KJV


© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Scrapbook Of Memories

A scrapbook of memories is fun to review.
It brings back reminders of good times we knew.
It's pages have captured events in our lives.
Our life is stored in it's paper archives.

But the scrapbook has pages which are not yet filled
Which offer excitement and new ways to "build".
The best pages wait for ideas and thought
Which have not yet come but need to be sought.

May your scrapbook be filled with beauty and worth
And burst at the seams with unending mirth,
May goodness and service fill all of your days
And your pages record events which amaze.

You'll be surprised at what Jesus can do...
So much more than you thought could come true.
In Him you will have excitement and fun,
And your scrapbook will say, "Just look what He's done!"

"Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ."
Philippians 1:6 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Good Report

When someone has a good report
Or brings a word of cheer,
It brightens up the atmosphere
For all who may be near.

Sometimes it isn't easy,
But it really can be done.
To look upon the bright side
Will bring smiles and joy and fun.

So even though you may be down
Choose good words to speak.
Soon you will feel better
And your day won't seem so bleak.

Then those around you will be cheered.
Your joy may be contagious.
And you may help someone who's down
To smile and be courageous.

"The light of the eyes rejoiceth the heart: and a good report maketh the bones fat."
Proverbs 15:30 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Anger

Don't let anger enter in.
It's fiery darts just cause chagrin!
Don't ope the door and give it place.
It doesn't need to take up space!

"Keeping cool" will douse it's flame
And animosity will tame.
It wastes much time and energy,
And robs your joy in great degree.

Anger is an ugly snare.
Avoid it's trigger points! Beware!
There is so much to be gained
When "cool" and "calm" can be maintained.

"Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath."
James 1:19 KJV

"A soft answer turneth away wrath, but grievous words stir up anger."
Proverbs 15:1 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Weathering The Storms

We always are hoping for God's very best
And don't like to think that we may have a "test".
There surely will be times when we just get weary,
And that which we face may not seem all that cheery.

We sometimes can't conquer life's trials on our own,
But we have God's promise we'll not be alone.
He will not forsake us in trials we face
But will pour out His mercy, His love and His grace.

He gives us perspective and helps us to see
That our own solutions have no guarantee.
As we then trust Him and seek Him in prayer,
In all of our circumstance He is right there.

He won't let us stumble or waver or fall
But will help us through trials... whether great big or small.
In Him we have joy... no matter the trial.
He carries our burdens and helps us to smile.

"And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose."
Romans 8:28 KJV

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Snowflakes

Snowflakes gently falling, drifting,
Wrapping all my world in white,
Covering the winter grey,
Making all look clean and bright...

It almost seems that "peace" is falling.
Oh, so quietly it comes,
Making all serene and pure
As the tired earth succumbs.

The beauty of new-fallen snow,
Clothing branch and twig and bough,
Paints a very pretty picture
As it covers nature's brow.

Snowflakes gently falling, drifting,
Wrapping all in fluffy white,
Seem to overcome the "drab"
And for a "season" make things bright.

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Voice Of Thunder

When I saw lightning with fierce thunder
I was filled with awe and wonder.
Our God sometimes speaks with force
To help His people stay on course.

Lightning bolted through the sky
Creating bursts of light on high.
The thunder booming overhead
Made me wonder what God said.

Such display of might and power
Made me know He could devour
All to Him which does not please.
This thunder seemed to make "decrees"!

Perhaps it was a "wake-up" call
To remind us, big and small,
That God still rules and He is greater,
Our omnipotent Creator!

"Hear, oh, hear the roar of His voice and sound of rumbling that goes out of His mouth! Under the whole heaven He lets it loose, and His lightning to the ends of the earth."
Job 37:2-3 Amplified Bible

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Worldly Goods

Material things are "not for sure".
They may not last more than a day.
Should all we have and all we've known
Be removed or blown away...

We would have a clearer view
Of what has worth and what does not.
For we would start to realize
That peace and joy cannot be bought.

And so our focus should not be
On "getting all we can" in life.
Peace and joy are born within
And can't be jarred by loss or strife.

God will give us inner strength
Through times of challenge or dismay.
In Him we find our true perspective
And true "treasure" for each day.

"Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: for where your treasure is, there will your heart be also."
Matthew 6:19-21 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Special Angels

Surely we meet angels
As we go about our day,
For every time I need one
I hear an "angel" say...

"Let me help you, dear," or
"I think you need a smile,
Or maybe need a hug and
Just to rest a little while."

Angels unawares bring us peace
And lift us up.
They bring re-assurance
And with joy they fill our cup.

They are those God uses
Who are willing to reach out
In service and in caring.
It's what love is all about.

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Blessed Are The Peacemakers

Blessed are the peacemakers.....

Who break down walls by their gentle speech.
Who break through defenses by reaching out in love.
Who will not take up an offense and then repeat it to another.
Who will speak blessing to the unlovely.
Who are patient when others are angry or pushy.
Who will forgive the transgressions of others.
Who will pray for those who offend them.
Who will take time to speak positive encouragement into a negative situation
or a broken life.

"And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace."
James 3:18 KJV

"If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men."
Romans 12:18 KJV

"And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful."
Colossians 3:15 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Loose Ends

When knitting or crocheting
One must fasten all loose threads
Or soon the stitches ravel
And the knitting falls in shreds.

If the knitter pays this heed
Her work will be "secure".
Her diligence to this detail
Fine knitting will assure.

Now things may just not work like this
As through each day we travel.
Even though we've planned a lot
Things may still unravel.

And that which we've relied upon
May suddenly have "holes"
Which need some quick attention.
We may even need new goals.

We may have to start anew
If our plans are getting "frayed".
Anything we have not faced
We no longer can evade.

God will help us with loose ends
And will help us find our way.
He will knit our lives together
And help us day-by-day.

"The Lord will perfect that which concerneth me..."
Psalm 138:8 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Bright New Year

Wishing you a bright new year,
Full of blessing, full of cheer,
Brimming over in all it's ways
With laughter to delight your days.

May Jesus be your precious wellspring,
Causing melody on your heartstring,
Filling you with rich new treasure,
Adding happiness in full measure.

May your footsteps happy be,
Your heart be light and fancy-free.
May your spirit find new wings
To rise and soar in all God brings.


© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Family Of God

The family of God is precious indeed,
Full of much love and full of "good seed".
Fellowship times are joyous and warm.
Often the love there will heal and transform.

We are not meant to "stand all alone",
And we treasure the friendship of those we have known.
We can stand strong... in hope we abound
As this "family" we love gathers around.

Brother and sister, "standing" together,
Encourage each other and life's storms will weather.
Knitted and bonded in love for our Lord,
We give God the glory in joyous accord.

"... Be filled with the Spirit; speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord, giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ."
Ephesians 5:18-20 KJV


© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

So Great His Mercy

If by sin you are bent low
And your heart is sore within,
Bring your burden to the cross.
Ask forgiveness for your sin.

Sin will weigh and drag you down,
Will surely rob your joy and peace.
But Jesus calls, "I love you, Child.
I can make your pain to cease."

"Let Me heal and make you whole
And free you from your stress and sorrow.
I'll wash your life as white as snow
So you can face tomorrow."

When sin's dark weight is washed away,
Never again can it be found.
Jesus gave His life for this.
His love and mercy are profound.

"He hath not dealt with us after our sins; nor rewarded us according to our iniquities. For as the heaven is high above the earth, so great is his mercy toward them that fear him. As far as the east is from the west, so far hath he removed our transgressions from us."
Psalm 103:10-12 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Wisdom's Balance

Though men may debate, God's wisdom will stand,
Even though they quibble throughout the land,
Promoting ideas with man-made intent
About which they endlessly fume and lament.

Then TV and radio replay all this "news"
So we may "learn" and maybe will choose
Which side to be on... should there be a vote.
First we should pray and of wisdom take note.

God's view is clear and will give good perspective.
He'll guide us and help us to be quite selective.
If we trust Him He'll show us when there may be error.
From Him we should learn and of man's views beware.

"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

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Repair Shop

When something is broken which we can't repair
We find a repair shop and take that need there.
If something is worn and it just will not start,
We go to the store to buy a new part.

But what do we do when something is lost
And we cannot meet the size of the cost?
Sometimes the problem just isn't resolved
And it seems the dilemma cannot be solved..

If this were a clock or a mower or car,
We might just say, "This has gone too far!"
But if it's your heart which is broken or weary
Repair shops can't help with this kind of a query.

Friendships and hearts need the Master's kind touch
To bring back the "health" which is needed so much.
He is able to heal and is good at repair!
Whenever we need Him He always is there.

"Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end."
Ephesians 3:20-21 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A New Year's Prayer

Let peace and good will within us be birthed.
Let all of our days have merit and worth.
In all of our actions let time be redeemed
And through us God's kingdom be highly esteemed.

Let us bring love where discord has been
To help restore joy and peace once again.
Let us bring healing to one who is down
Or offer a smile to counter a frown.

In some little act of kindness each day
Let us be envoys God's love to convey.
Let us be ready to walk in God's grace
And His precious leading to always embrace.

"...On earth peace, good will toward men."
Luke 2:14 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf