Wisdom's Riches

A dwelling filled with wisdom
Is a dwelling rich in treasure.
The grace and goodness of our Lord
Becomes it's daily measure.

Wisdom's gift will heal and bless,
Refreshing all who dwell within,
Covering with peace and joy
Against life's "noise" and daily din.

Wisdom holds life's "answer store",
Is always willing to share more.
Help us, Lord, to comprehend
How much Your wisdom is our friend.

"There is treasure to be desired and oil in the dwelling of the wise..."
Proverbs 21:20 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Better Way

Each day we have so much to do
And sometimes struggle to get through.
It's "hurry here" and "hurry there",
With simply too much wear and tear.

When daily schedules pull on us
Then we start to fret and fuss.
It doesn't have to be this way,
For God can "pull" us from this fray.

He will draw us to come nigh,
To find release we could not buy.
For when we're drawn to Him in prayer
We overcome life's wear and tear.

The "pull" of God lifts us above
Our schedules, which will push and shove.
He brings answers which are real
And helps us find our best ideal.

"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 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

An Urgent Prayer

Let the people come into the House of the Lord
And learn from His Word - the two-edged sword.
Let them be armed with power and might
And strength for each day to "fight the good fight"!

Let them rise up and carry Your truth
To all whom they know... adult, child or youth.
Let Your Word go forth as a fire in the land
And the flames of this fire by Your Spirit be fanned!

Jesus is coming! There is a foreknowing
To make sure that sin-debt is paid and not owing.
Urgent the times before us today...
Let all men find Jesus, I solemnly pray.

"Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not, the Son of man cometh."
Matthew 24:44 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Simply Clay

Clay without the Potter's hands
Is just an ugly lump.
It will have no form or shape
But just remain a "clump".

But yielded in the Potter's hands
It's beauty is unique.
It becomes a vessel
Which to others' hearts will speak.

By His skillful, loving hands
The Potter gives a special touch.
His vessels are the very best
Because He loves each one so muich!

"But now, O Lord, thou art our father; we are the clay, and thou our potter: and we all are the work of thy hand."
Isaiah 64:8 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Bless The Little Children

Our children are God's gentle folks
Who grow to be majestic oaks.
Children nurtured in the Lord
Will bring their parents blessed reward.

Oh, how beautiful to see
A little child's simplicity.
They are filled with life and light
And cause our lives to be so bright.

Let their eyes be trained on You
And every day learn something new,
Growing in Your strength and light
And learning of Your power and might.

"But Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven."
Matthew 19:14 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Finding Balance

You can tell what I like by the things that I "store":
Music and writings and books and much more;
Fabrics and papers and stitchery charts,
CD's and records, paintings and arts.

But more important is Jesus, my Lord.
Without knowing Him, I would simply be bored.
He gives me purpose... I'm in His employ!
He gives me "calling" and fills me with joy.

So that which I do in Him will be first.
For His sweet presence I always will thirst.
He keeps me balanced so I don't lose sight
Of that which is best and that which is right.

"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

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Real Pest

Confusion causes snarls and it truly is a pest!
It scrambles even simple things and gives my patience test.
Unexpected things can happen... this I understand.
But little things which aren't in order from me should be banned!

Confusion robs my energy and tends to slow me down.
Sometimes order just gets lost... this really makes me frown!
Order has a beauty and eliminates much stress.
It's much to be desired for a life which has finesse.

When my home has order, quick to follow is God's peace.
Order drives out conflict, and all tensions have release.
Always this takes planning, and it's so much worth the work.
But if I do not do it, then confusion comes to lurk.

"For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace..."
I Corinthians 14:33 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

God Still Rules

God is God, and He still rules.
Those who don't believe are fools.
Men who through their pride wield power
Before God's might will shrink and cower.

Though they speak with flossy tongue,
In God's sight all their words are dung.
God discerns the hearts of men
And knows their every wicked yen.

He will turn their words to dust,
For He is righteous, pure and just.
All shall bow before His power.
How much we need Him in this hour.

"The Lord is in his holy temple, the Lord's throne is in heaven: his eyes behold, his eyelids try, the children of men."
Psalm 11:4 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

That Special Touch

When "doing unto others", do you go the extra mile?
Do you do your very best, with intent to make them smile?
People will be blessed when you add a special touch.
In what you do for others, your actions will say much.

A heart turned toward the Lord and filled with gratitude
Reflects it's joy and peace in a happy attitude.
Willingness to work or serve, as done unto the Lord,
Will make unusual impact and strike a pleasant chord.

Sometimes people will "sluff off" in how they do a job.
When they fail to do their best, this work their joy will rob.
But work done with a special touch will bring a happy glow.
Then your faithful service the love of God will show.

"And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and Father by him."
Colossians 3:17 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Light Of The Word

The light of the Word will penetrate darkness
And show us a way which is proven and right.
When we're confused or lose our direction
The Word is our anchor and becomes our light.

We need not panic or stumble along
But always can rest in the strength of God's Word.
He is so faithful to cover and "keep" us,
No matter the challenge which may have occurred.

So if you are struggling and can't see the way,
Let God's Holy Word become as your "stay".
You will find answers and wisdom to guide.
Safely in Him you can live and abide.

"The word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path."
Psalm 119:105 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

New Expression

Let us find expression in our lives
Through prayer and praise.
Perspective comes from Heav'n on high
When we our worship raise.

As we seek His holiness
God gives us sweet dimension,
Changing us down deep within
Beyond our comprehension.

We will hear and will perceive
In ways we have not known.
As we bow our hearts to God
By His Spirit we are shown.

"O come, let us worship and bow down: let us kneel before the Lord our maker. For he is our God; and we are the people of his pasture, and the sheep of his hand."
Psalm 95:6-7 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Awesome Colors

When I see God's colors, spilled out in rich array,
I feel the love of God all around me on display.
My spirit rises up with joy whene'er I see His touch.
He pours out so much beauty and has given us so much.

I can see God's very heart in every shade and hue,
Painted there by loving hands to bless us... me and you.
What an awesome gift He gave... this brilliant parade...
All the variations of the colors He has made!

"O Lord, our Lord, how excellent is thy name in all the earth."
Psalm 8:9 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Precious Peace

Peace of mind is a precious commodity.
But folks with much stress may think it an "oddity".
Peace is a fruit of the Spirit of God,
Not just a thought or a pleasant facade.

Much to be sought after, studied and found,
Peace is God's gift to those who are bound
By lifestyles of conflict and unneeded stress...
To lift them above life's daily duress.

Listening to God we learn to be still,
To lay down our weights and discover His will.
Stress falls away and problems decrease,
And there in His presence we find His deep peace.

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

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Drumbeats

What drumbeat are you hearing?
What song within you rings?
Is the rhythm which you hear
A beat which joy and laughter brings?

Choose your "drummers' carefully.
Don't listen to a woeful song.
Marching to a worldly beat
Could cause your footsteps to go wrong.

Listen for the heart of God
And hear the sound of His own drum,
Calling all to faith in Him,
Inviting all to hear and come.

"My soul longeth, yea, even fainteth for the courts of the Lord: my heart and my flesh crieth out for the living God."
Psalm 84:2 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Season Of Promise

A season of promise, a season of hope,
A season of breathtaking, heavenly scope!
Christ broke the barriers and opened the door
To eternity's glory with Him evermore.

Jesus became the path and the key
By His blood outpoured on Calvary's tree.
He made provision that none should be lost.
By His sacrifice He paid for sin's cost.

This is God's promise of hope for this day.
Eternity's welcome in front of us lay.
We have all reason to sing and rejoice,
To lift up high praise with most jubilant voice!

"And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours
only, but also for the sins of the whole world."
I John 2:2 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Our Blessed LORD

On the cross Jesus carried the pain of the world.
It whipped at His life like a banner unfurled.
Nothing we know could e'er match His pain,
Nor can we fathom all mankind's disdain.

He loved us so much He walked down this path.
To save us from sin, He suffered such wrath.
He chose the cross, accepting it's "cup"
That we through eternity with Him might sup.

Forgive us, dear Lord, should we drive a nail
Or by careless action Your great love assail.
Forgive us, dear Lord, if we bring a thorn
Which might cause another to sin or to scorn.

Never has such love been poured out on man
As that which He gave, but this was God's plan.
All glory be giv'n to the Lamb Who was slain,
Who forever will rule and forever will reign!

"Now unto the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God, be honour and glory for ever and ever. Amen."
I Timothy 1:17 KJV

© 2009 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.

"Forasmuch as ye know that ye 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 KJV

© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Greatest Love

O Father God... from beginning of time
You had a plan... a flawless design.
Not in a lifetime, not in a day
Could we comprehend just how much You would pay.

Your love is so great that You sacrificed all
So we might be saved from effects of "the fall".
How great Your compassion, Your mercy and grace,
That You should love us and our sins erase.

You didn't forsake us or cast us away,
But provided redemption... our sin-debts to pay.
O Father God, Your mercy and grace
Flow freely and richly our lives to embrace.

We are wrapped in Your love and eagerly wait
For the time when we see You and enter Your gate.
What blessing and honor and joy that will be...
To be in Your presence eternally.

"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

© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Mountains And Valleys

We long to reach "the mountaintop",
To rest and be renewed,
To glory in God's presence
And express our gratitude.

But way down in the valley
There are needs which must be met.
When we reach the mountaintop
Our "friends" we can't forget.

The mountaintop should spur us on
To listen to the cries
Of those down in the valley,
Their needs to recognize...

Voices crying out for hope,
People wanting to be well,
Homeless lining up for food
Or just a place where they may dwell.

We will not be useful
If we stay upon the mountain,
But having reached the top
Our lives become a fountain...

Of encouragement and healing
For a lost and hurting valley.
As we love and serve there,
To salvation some may rally.

"The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me; because the Lord hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, to them that are bound; to proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord, vengeance of our God, to comfort all that mourn: to appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteous, the planting of the Lord, that he might be glorified."
Isaiah 61:1-3 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Safe Overview

Without a Godly overview
Life can quickly get askew,
For many are the wiles and snares
Which try to trap us unawares.

Unless we're grounded in the Word
Our vision can be somewhat blurred.
We may not see potential error
Or realize we should beware.

With Scripture we can stay "in tune"
And from these dangers be immune.
Scripture is a trusted guide
And helpful counsel will provide.

"Every word of God is pure: he is a shield unto them that put their trust in him."
Proverbs 30:5 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Looking Up

We can choose to "look up" or choose to stay down.
It's better to smile than to wear a sad frown.
As we reach up in faith our cares fall away
And we gain a bright focus to govern our day.

God is our strength through each day and each hour,
A faithful companion, a shield, a safe tower.
We have good reason to always look up...
To learn God's perspective on what's in our "cup".

For He has a plan and keeps track of detail.
The size of our challenge will then start to pale.
And we can move forward with joy in our day,
Assured of His covering and care... come what may.

"The name of the Lord is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe."
Proverbs 18:10 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

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

Blessed Days

When we walk with Jesus
Every day we can look up,
Knowing He will bless our day
And sweetly fill our cup.

All His purpose for our lives
He watches o'er with care.
We can lean on His strong arm
And know that He is there.

Who can grasp the wonderment
Of how He works in our behalf?
And how when we're at lowest ebb
In Him we still can smile and laugh?

We'll not dread the coming day
When He is in the midst of it,
For we are covered by His love,
And no good thing will He omit.

"For He shall give his angels change over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways".
Psalm 91:11 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Deep Joy

Happiness at times is "fleeting",
But joy will be much deeper.
With joy is "satisfaction"...
Of well-being it is keeper.

Joy o'ercomes our circumstance
And gently keeps us steady.
It is a strong foundation
And for challenge keeps us ready.

Joy is given from the Lord
As we're in fellowship with Him.
We have soothing promise
Of his light when days are dim.

"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

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Words We Speak

The myriad words we speak each day
Spring forth in colorful array,
Expressing thoughts and tumbling out,
Filled with joy or sometimes doubt.

Hopefully our words are hewn
And issue from a heart in tune
With Jesus' leading and His cause.
To this we always should give pause.

When our hearts to Him incline,
Words we speak will then align
And be acceptable in measure,
Bringing joy and Godly treasure.

"Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength, and my redeemer."
Psalm 19:14 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Laughing At Me

Some days I don't have much "spark".
It seems my mind is stuck in "park".
I must need a "pick-me-up"
Or put more coffee in my cup.

Some days I am just a "klutz"
And "trip" on even tiny ruts.
I think I need to laugh at me
And enter my day merrily.

When my day is "out of sync"
I'lll shrug it off without a blink.
What's the use to fuss and whine?
It's much more fun to laugh than pine!

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

My Heart Rejoices

When darkness stands in front of me
I know God will light a lamp.
I need not be fearful,
For His angels all around me camp.

He creates a path for me
And helps me always be sure-footed.
Even when I cannot see
My faith in Him is safely rooted.

When I have anxiety
He helps me to be still and pause.
Remembering His faithfulness,
My heart rejoices with applause.

"For thou wilt light my candle; the Lord my God will enlighten my darkness. Thou has enlarged my steps under me, that my feet did not slip. Therefore will I give thanks unto thee, O Lord, among the heathen, and sing praises unto thy name."
Psalm 18:28, 36 & 49 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Truth Will Stand

We seem to need a dictionary.
The news we hear is "fiction"-ary!
Society gives us new title
For time-worn issues which are vital.

Morality is watered down.
(We're told we're not supposed to frown).
Babies' lives are caught in "choice",
Never having had a voice.

Men are re-defining "sin".
Godly values are not "in".
Folks are in deception caught.
But flossy language changes naught.

To those who listen to this "chatter",
What they say won't really matter.
Truth is truth and will not bend,
No matter what the latest "trend"!

"Beware, lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily."
Colossians 4:9 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Thy Will Be Done

Thy will be done on earth this day,
As it is in heaven, I pray.
Let all men desire Thy will.
May peace reside and earth be still.

Let peoples join their hands in love
And nations bow in prayer thereof.
May all war and turmoil cease.
May suffering peoples find release.

Peace will come when we are still
And yielded to the Father's will.
His will be done on earth this day,
As it is in heaven, I pray.

"Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven."
Matthew 6:9-10 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Sowing Peace

If we would have a life of peace
Then we must let all conflict cease.
For peace is birthed in wisdom's meekness
And has gentle, mild uniqueness.

Wisdom's righteousness and mercy
Douse the flames of controversy,
Causing strife to bow it's head,
Bringing good will in it's stead.

Wisdom from our precious Lord
Will always bring us blessed reward.
Only here will we find peace...
The kind that brings us full release.

"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 without hypocrisy. And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace."
James 3:17-18 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

He Hears Every Prayer

Jesus listens carefully...
He hears our every cry.
When we call upon His name
He always will draw nigh.

He is faithful... never fails...
To hear our whispered prayer.
He knows prayers we keep within
Which we can't even share.

Resting in His faithfulness
And drawing strength from Him
Brings release we really need
When prospects just seem dim.

As we trust and wait on Him
His answers will come through,
And when He answers He completes
Those things we could not do.

"I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the Lord, which made heaven and earth."
Psalm 121:1-2 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Greater Is He

Deception offers ugly wares,
Packaged in appealing wrap.
It reaches out in myriad ways
Unwary souls to gain and trap.

Oftentimes if we are seeking
Something new and fresh and bright,
This ugly pest is just there waiting
To distract us with it's "light".

Deception tries to sow it's seeds
And offer us alternative,
To draw us off God's chosen path
And blur our thoughts on how to live.

But God is so much greater and
Is able to fulfill our joy
When we keep our eyes on Him
And all His principles employ.

"Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you."
James 4:7 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

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Spring's Bright Beauty

Crocus blooms and daffodils
Are welcome signs of spring's bright frills.
Then fluffy-petaled, flow'ring trees
Present their fragrant potpourris.

Spring turns everything to flowers
As plants and shrubs become as bowers.
Spring seems bent on blessing us
As she makes her pretty "fuss".

Thank You, Lord, for all this beauty
As spring fulfills her annual duty.
When she opes her pretty door
She brings to us new hope and more.

"Bless the Lord, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name."
Psalm 103:1 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

In The Garden

It's fun to plant a garden
And watch each flower grow...
To see the plants begin to bloom
And each one make it's "show".

When the plants are looking good
We really do feel proud.
We think we can relax a bit.
(Some "bragging" is allowed!)

But seeking shelter underneath
Each precious growing bloom
Are seeds and weeds and foreign plants,
Trying to find room.

They collect there quite unseen
And also start to grow.
And soon we have unwanted plants,
"Sneaking in" below.

And so we must be vigilant
To pull out all the weeds
Which are not meant to flower there
And give off their own seeds.

Seeds and weeds are "foreign".
Don't let them have a place,
For they will just take over.
Don't give them any space!

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Strong Family

"Family" is built in love over time
As touches of caring create a strong bond.
Sometimes the tiniest thing we may do
Will "heal" or "fix" or "reach way beyond".

Family "ties" which grow out of kindness
Will never be lost and cannot be broken.
Bonding is strenthened and love is promoted
When words of encouragement gently are spoken.

Commitment to pray and serve one another
Becomes as an anchor against storm and test.
Where family members are bonded in prayer
Then that home will be a haven of rest.

"Love bears up under anything and everything that comes, is ever ready to believe the best of every person, its hopes are fadeless under all circumstances, and it endures everything (without weakening)."
I Corinthians 13:7 Amplified Bible

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Perfect Peace

As you walk along life's road,
What is the nature of your load?
Do you walk in quiet peace
And from worries have release?

If Jesus travels by your side
And daily you in Him abide,
He lifts the weights you should not carry
As you walk or when you tarry.

Trust in Him to take your fear.
Let strife and tension disappear.
Draw upon His power and might
And let Him all your battles fight.

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

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

His Compassion

Sometimes little raindrops fall
And cloud our vision of the sun.
Sometimes little teardrops fall,
Gently, softly, one-by-one.

And for a season we can't "see"
Because our heart just needs to pause.
To deal with sadness or with loss
The heart is quiet and withdraws.

Jesus' tears will match our own,
And He will feel our deepest pain.
Only He our need has known.
He'll bring the sunshine through the rain.

"The Lord will command His lovingkindness in the daytime, and in the night His song shall be with me."
Psalm 42:8 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Slow To Speak

Lord, let my ears be swift to hear
And to Your voice give careful ear.
Let my speech show prudent thought
And honor You just as it ought.

Let my mind not run ahead
Or bypass anything You've said.
Let my lips be slow to speak,
And let my words be mild and meek.

Sometimes silent I should be
And wait until You speak to me.
Help me, Lord, to always pause
And only speak when You give cause.

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

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

His Healing Hand

Lord, sometimes life is fragile,
So we draw upon Your power
And call upon Your blessed name
To help us in this hour.

You are strong when we are weak,
And we reside within Your palm.
As we trust and hide in You
You pour out precious, healing balm.

Thank You, Lord, for healing hands
Which bring to us a needed touch.
Thank You for your faithfulness
In always loving us so much.

"Behold, the Lord's hand is not shortened, that it cannot save; neither his ear heavy, that it cannot hear."
Isaiah 59:1 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Heaven's Bright Morn

You have one life and choices to make.
When your time is through, where will you awake?
Desires and pleasures your spare time will take,
But what will you do for eternity's sake?

Salvation is calling... to Jesus draw nigh.
He'll give you reward which money can't buy.
The promise of Heaven He will not deny.
With Him you will be in the sweet by-and-by.

When your earthly time is short and well-worn,
Will you be prepared, or are you still torn?
If in God's kingdom you have been reborn,
You can look forward to Heaven's bright morn!

"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life."
John 3:16 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Wave Lengths

People are different with varying wave lengths.
When two can agree they have combined strengths.
But different wave lengths can cause mixed perception
Unless these two people agree on direction.

When one goes "left" and the other goes "right",
Confusion comes in and causes a blight!
They may have shared the very same goal,
But differing methods the victory stole.

The wave lengths won't matter if two understand
That all they attempt should rest in God's hand.
When two can agree in Jesus, our Lord,
He will then help them to be in accord.

"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. For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them."
Matthew 18:19-20 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Walking In His Timing

Walking with Jesus in His precise rhythm,
Not running ahead nor lagging behind,
And sensing His pace and purpose for us
Is the greatest fulfillment that we'll ever find.

For when we are hearing the beat of His heart
Our movement will be anointed and bright.
Our footsteps will be protected and guided
As we climb our "mountains" and rise to new height.

Moving in sync with the Lord's perfect timing
Accomplishes more than we may think or see.
We will rise higher than we thought we could
When we wait on Him and with His plan agree.

"Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for Him..."
Psalm 37:7 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

In Christ We Win

The devil tries to cause a glitch
To keep us from God's perfect niche.
He has much to fear, you see,
When Jesus saves and sets us free.

Then we really spoil his fun
And cause him to be on-the-run.
When we speak about the Blood
His plans fall down and make a thud!

Jesus' name has might and power
To cause the enemy to cower.
When we speak His awesome name
The enemy will lose His aim.

We have victory over sin.
With Jesus we will always win!
Satan's game plan will find end
When we have Jesus as a friend!

"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

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Hope In Him

When all is falling down around me
I will hope and still look up,
For I know I'm not alone.
My God will always fill my cup.

When challenges give constant test,
I choose not to be depressed.
God is not so far away
That I can't see a brighter day.

Seeking God I find new fruit
That He would plant and give strong root.
I am never at the "end".
More blessings He will always send.

As I trust in His kind hand
I know He will help me stand.
Hope is not entirely gone.
God will bring a fresh new dawn.

"I have set the Lord always before me: because he is at my right hand, I shall not be moved. Therefore my heart is glad, and my glory rejoiceth..."
Psalm 16:8-9 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Choose Happiness

Keep a happy frame of mind.
Determine always to be kind.
Walk with lightness in your step,
Even when you're lacking pep.

Choose to have a ready smile
And maybe go "the second mile",
For unexpected blessings come
When we are more than just "ho-hum".

Choosing to be "up", not "down",
Will cause you to forget to frown.
It lifts you to a higher plane,
And satisfaction you will gain.

If you do not make this choice
You may lose chances to rejoice.
Happiness will raise you up,
With peace and joy will fill your cup.

"This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it."
Psalm 118:24 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Second Mile

When completing a task, and the "first mile" is done,
Running the second mile some folks will shun.
But those folks who stretch to meet this high test
Will give of their finest and always be blessed.

Industrious people always have work
Because in their duties they just do not shirk.
The mundane and simple, or jobs which repeat,
With grit and finesse they will gladly complete.

They will find honor in all that they do
And have satisfaction when day's work is through.
Knowing they've given the best that they had
They then can rest and truly be glad.

"And let the beauty of the Lord our God be upon us: and establish thou the work of our hands upon us; yea, the work of our hands establish thou it."
Psalm 90:17 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

New Thoughts

We sometimes have so many thoughts
Our minds become quite muddled,
But as we meditate on God
We will not get befuddled.

Spending time with our dear Lord
Will give us needed clarity,
Sort out all our myriad thoughts
And heal our minds that we might see.

When we center in on Him
Needless thoughts just fade away.
His thoughts give us golden insight
As we meditate and pray.

"Commit thy works unto the Lord, and thy thoughts shall be established."
Proverbs 16:3 KJV

"And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect will of God."
Romans 12:2 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

With My Song I Will Praise Him

Let worship rise from the depth of my being
And be a sweet savor to my Lord and King.
Let adoration well up and burst forth
And cause a new song of praises to ring.

Let every footstep I take on my "walk"
Be pleasing to Jesus and answer His call.
Let me receive the light of His Word
And find strength in Him for things great and small.

He is my joy, inspiration and friend,
A constant encouragement in all that I do.
Let all my actions bring praise to His name.
Let me His honor and glory proclaim.

"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 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Faith Is A Ladder

Faith is a ladder upon which we climb.
It has many rungs we reach over time.
With each step we take our faith will reach higher
In trusting our Lord. To this we aspire.

Some of the rungs may seem out of reach,
But Jesus will help us to have faith for each.
It's trusting in Him each step of the way
Which keeps us from falling or having dismay.

We cannot skip rungs. We grow through each one
Throughout our lives as we walk with the Son.
Each has a ladder to climb as he will.
The more rungs he climbs... the greater the thrill!

Faith is a venture which leads upward bound.
It changes our thinking in ways which astound.
Through faith in God we can climb to the top.
His joy is so much we won't want to stop.

"Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen."
Hebrews 11:1 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Raindrops

There's sunshine in life's raindrops, reflecting Jesus' love,
A heavenly refreshing which is promise from above.
His "rain" will wash away your tears
Till sunshine once again appears.
Cherish every raindrop as a symbol of His love.

A raindrop on a petal or a leaf which has been dry
Becomes much-needed moisture and the leaf will satisfy.
The leaf will turn it's face to God
And gently in His wind will nod.
Heaven's raindrops bring new life... the leaf to beautify.

So raindrops are a special gift when we are worn and weary
To wash us and again to make us sparkle and be cheery.
Do not question, "Why this rain?"
For hidden in the rain is gain.
Raindrops filled with Jesus' light will change what has been dreary.

"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

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Compassionate God

We have such a loving God,
Compassionate and caring.
He is always there for us,
To lift the loads we're bearing.

When we feel we've failed in life
He gives us a clean slate
And helps us then to start again
And have a fresh new "plate".

As He reaches down to us
We feel His gentle touch.
He pours out grace and mercy
'Cause He loves us... Oh so much!

"It is of the Lord's mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness."
Lamentations 3:22 KJV

"Thou hast turned for me my mourning into dancing: thou hast put off my sackcloth, and girded me with gladness..."
Psalm 30:11 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Silver And Gold

Silver leaves and filigree,
Woven gold and fleur-de-lis,
Sapphires, rubies, strings of pearl...
These set people's minds awhirl.

Worldly riches have a flair,
But none to Jesus can compare.
Better than the purest gold
Are treasures which His Scriptures hold.

Jesus makes us truly rich.
In Him we find a heavenly niche.
Better far than earthly pleasure,
Jesus' gold is priceless treasure.

"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

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

No Worry

Time is lost in needless worry.
Then we sometimes have to scurry
To complete the task at hand,
With added pressure to withstand.

Worry is like sinking sand.
It bogs you down by it's demand.
Rise up from this sinking place
And don't give worry any space.

Before the Lord release your woes.
Let Him battle all your "foes".
To pray takes less time than to fret.
With prayer, good answers you will get.

God redeems our time for us
And teaches us how not to fuss.
Worry just is not much fun.
In prayer are our battles won.

"And who of you by worrying and being anxious can add one unit of measure (cubit) to his stature or to the span of his life?"
Matthew 6:27 Amplified Bible

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Deeper Insight

Lord, let the scales fall away from our eyes
So we don't miss what is urgent and wise.
Come with Your power. Intercept what we do.
Change how we think so we may break through...

And have holy insight of Your divine will.
Help us to navigate these times with new skill.
Gird us with strength to rise up each day
And let worldly hindrances just fall away.

"And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect will of God."
Romans 12:2 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Beauty Of The Lord

If I could paint a picture
Of the beauty of the Lord
And capture all the love and warmth
In heavn'ly places stored,

My paint brush would be filled with life,
My canvas richly hued,
And colors we have never seen
Therein would be debuted.

I could paint throughout all time
On canvas without end
To try to mix the shades and hues
Which He would have me blend.

And when I thought my work was done
There always would be more.
We cannot even comprehend
The "wealth" which is in store.

If I can paint a fraction
Of His beauty with my brush,
The colors will transcend the norm
And be extremely lush.

Every day I yearn to know
And understand Him more.
His beauty spurs me on and on
His riches to explore.

"One thing have I desired of the Lord, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the Lord, and to enquire in his temple."
Psalm 27:4 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Spring's Happy Song

Spring is peeking 'round the corner,
Turning dull brown trees to "fluff",
Adorned with blossoms soft and pink.
(Of winter, trees have had enough!)

Spring holds promise bright and clear
As flowers once again appear,
Bursting forth in glorious bloom,
Offering to us good cheer.

Spring has "rhythm" of her own
And seems to sing a happy song.
Let her fill you with new hope
As cheerfully she trips along.

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Increasing Joy

"Resting" in God's goodness is a blessed place to be.
Tomorrow's cares are in His hand... in Him I'm truly free.
I can walk in confidence and know things will look up,
Knowing God will lead me on and overflow my cup.

Therefore I am light in heart, not troubled and withdrawn.
I look forward to each day and see a pleasant dawn.
Leaving burdens with the Lord is key to finding peace.
He will shield and lift me up and give my joy increase.

"But thou, O Lord, art a shield for me; my glory and the lifter up of mine head. I cried unto the Lord with my voice, and he heard me out of his holy hill."
Psalm 3:3-4 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Fruitful Vine

When a vine is overgrown
It's tendrils will need pruning.
This is how God shapes a life
And how He does fine-tuning.

He will clip off extra shoots
Which do not have much worth
So the vine will then grow strong
And to good fruit give birth.

Vines which are not pruned
Tend to grow in wrong directions,
Spreading where they should not be.
Their fruits have imperfections.

Jesus watches o'er His vines
With loving care and grace.
When we feel His pruning shears
His care we should embrace.

"I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman. Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit."
John 15:1-2 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Moments With The Lord

Do you need a sweet oasis
In the hubbub of the day?
Do you yearn for some escape
From the pressure and the fray?

Life can be a treadmill
Which will push us far beyond
The limits of good wisdom.
To this we must respond.

Mini-moments with the Lord
Can "freshen up" a weary day.
Give energy for tiredness
And peace for sheer dismay.

He brings rest and balance
So we do not go astray.
Where there is no answer
He will show us a new way.

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

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Joy Of Serving

Serving the Lord will never grow "old",
For in Him I find rich nuggets of gold,
Waiting to be discovered and known,
Practiced each day, and then to be sown...

So others may see and learn and be taught
And worship the Lord in prayer and in thought.
God is so good and loving and kind
And ready to teach us if we're so inclined.

What rich experience to be in His "keep",
To know and to serve Him and His blessings reap!
There is no joy to match such as this.
Those who don't serve Him don't know what they miss!

"Serve the Lord with gladness: come before his presence with singing."
Psalm 100:2 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Honored Citizens

Seniors are gold and full of much treasure.
When we "draw them out" we learn of the measure
Which caused them to prosper through times which were hard.
We should esteem them with highest regard.

We have not labored to sow as they've sown.
We have not suffered the hardships they've known.
We have not learned the lessons they've learned
Or even come near the honors they've earned.

Their world is fading from times that they knew,
But values they lived by are worth much review.
When we understand their caring and giving,
Then... only then... will we know about living.

"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

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Twisting Of Words

Words can be twisted to mean anything,
To speak something good or distort it for bad.
Some who are "skilled" may sound very smooth,
But wrapped in their speech are untruths they add.

Words are as "tools" to air one's own thoughts,
But also are measure of what's in the heart.
Without good discernment of what we have heard
We may miss the fact that some words have a "dart".

The "dart" is a lie, or less than the truth.
Clever or flossy, the words may sound right.
Beware of those people who use fancy words,
For sometimes their speech is not "black-and-white".

"These are the things that ye shall do: speak ye every man the truth to his neighbour; execute the judgment of truth and peace in your gates."
Zechariah 8:16 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Abiding In His Presence

The wise man knows God's presence,
And there he takes up residence.
He finds his joy and strength there
Through relationship and prayer.

In times of trial and terror,
And in failure or in error,
He may be jarred or shaken
But he won't be overtaken.

Because he always is "tuned in"
Challenges won't make him "spin".
In his faith he is well-founded,
And in God's Word he is grounded.

"Because thou hast been my help, therefore in the shadow of thy wings will I rejoice. My soul followeth hard after thee: thy right hand upholdeth me."
Psalm 63:7-8 KJV

© 2010 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

Redeemed Time

I wanted just to sit and write,
But "business" was distracting me.
An issue which I could not solve
Was pressing in relentlessly.

I could have spent my writing time
Pursuing answers on the phone
But chose to do my writing first.
Through God the answers would be shown.

Halfway through my writing time
The answer which I needed came.
God had broken through the maze
Which threatened all my time to claim.

While I took the time to write
He went to work in my behalf.
He redeemed my time that day.
My "business" got His autograph!

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

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Re-Assuring Peace

God's peace brings a stillness
Which will overcome our fears.
By His re-assurance
He will wash away our tears.

It is His desire that
We rest within His peace...
That we lean on Him for strength
And let all worries cease.

His peace keeps us steady
When our footsteps are unsure.
He will "stay" us deep within.
In Him we are secure.

"Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus."
Philippians 4:6-7 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Strong Army

O God, Your power we need in this hour.
Of Your Holy spirit we need a fresh shower.
Fill us anew and raise us up strong
To overcome evil and heal what is wrong.

As warriors we march to conquer new ground.
In battle Your sword of truth is profound.
Weak though we are, in You we are able
To march in great strength, for you make us stable.

We are Your soldiers... to march through the land,
To conquer what's lost and take a strong stand.
We are victorious by Your power and might
To march as an army and fight Your good fight.

"Through God we shall do valiantly: for he it is that shall tread down our enemies."
Psalm 60:12 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Greater Love

Laying down our lives to serve the hurting or the lost
In ordinary terms may appear to have high cost.
But Jesus looks upon these souls as worthy of His best.
We dare not gaze upon their needs with mockery or jest.

Sometimes we're required by God to lay aside our plan
And take the time to help someone... to serve howe'er we can.
Longterm this can be a test of patience and of strength,
But Jesus doesn't look upon the job... it's width or length.

He is taking us to heights above our own perspective,
And we will start to see His plan as we become receptive.
We can be His vessel to show love to one another.
By serving e'en as He served, with love we bless each other.

"Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends."
John 15:13 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Listening To Wise Counsel

Some folks listen, some will not.
To try to help them is for nought.
No matter what advice you give,
Their memory is like a sieve.

Their thinking patterns are just stuck,
And sometimes mired down in "muck".
Often they just will not try
A new idea when it draws nigh.

If they can't receive advice
They just may have to pay a price.
Pray that they will realize
And learn to seek that which is wise.

"The way of a fool is right in his own eyes: but he that hearkeneth unto counsel is wise."
Proverbs 12:15 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

An Oasis

The transforming power of the Word of God
Is like an oasis in pathways we trod,
A place of refreshing and respite and peace,
Retreat with the Lord where all concerns cease.

To bathe in the Word is a "place set apart"
Where Jesus' sweet voice may speak to the heart.
All other factors recede and grow dim,
And we are renewed as we focus on Him.

His healing waters will cleanse us within
And lift us above the day's stress and din.
We may reside in a place of deep peace,
In the Word's sweet oasis of calm and release.

"I rejoice at thy word, as one that findeth great spoil."
Psalm 119:162 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Patience Knocks

If you find it hard to wait
And work yourself into a state,
Such as this you can't ignore,
For patience knocks upon your door.

Patience is a hard-won prize
And can't be learned through compromise.
You must choose to let her in
And let her healing work begin.

Patience is a precious gift.
Your thinking patterns she will sift
Until you learn to be at rest
And lean on God through every test.

He will cause stress to recede
And oversee your every need,
Giving you an inner calm
As a well-earned healing balm.

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

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Alone With God

When we find ourselves alone,
More on God we then will lean.
And through these times there will be gain
As depth of wisdom we will glean.

Loneliness is not all bad
(But something that most folks will dread).
Yet God has purpose in these times
To shape us for what lies ahead.

We are strengthened and made rich
As down this path with Him we go.
While loneliness is not our choice,
Alone with Him we stretch and grow.

"Surely I will not come into the tabernacle of my house, nor go up into my bed: I will not give sleep to mine eyes, or slumber to mine eye-lids, until I find out a place for the Lord, an habitation for the mighty God of Jacob."
Psalm 132:3-5 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Heart Full Of Joy

A heart full of joy wants to "laugh, smile and sing"
And to negativity never will cling.
For laughter is healing and will not "look down".
It just won't complain or grimace or frown.

If circumstance crumbles, it counters with hope.
It rests in God's grace and will not just mope.
In joy there is strength... enough for each day.
Encouragement follows and fears will allay.

It really is better to laugh through our woes,
For what good can come from resting in "lows?"
God gives us peace and helps us to say,
"I will look up and choose joy this day!"

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

"The joy of the Lord is your strength."
Nehemiah 8:10 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Above The Ordinary

Help me, Lord, to rise above
The issues of the day,
To find the "more important"
And to hear what You would say.

For time can be so wasted
If I don't know Your desire.
If I don't see Your "windows",
Golden timing could expire.

Excitement wells within me
As I glimpse Your will and way.
Your Spirit buoys me up with joy,
Erasing the "blase' ".

My daily "load" can't hold me down
When I have heard Your voice.
My spirit soars, my steps are light.
In You I will rejoice!

"My voice shalt thou hear in the morning, O Lord; in the morning will I direct my prayer unto thee, and will look up."
Psalm 5:3 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Highest Place

Some of us are seeking God for things beyond our reach,
But sometimes God will slow us down... a parable to teach.
Do we see what is before us, right before our eyes?
We need His perspective first to start to realize...

That small things are important... not just high and lofty goals.
He might have us live and serve in ordinary roles.
Some will rise to lofty heights, but not until they learn
To understand the humble place and wisdom's merits earn.

The greatest works we do in life may be unseen by man,
But count for much eternally when they are in God's plan.
Walking in God's rhythm as we serve Him every day
Is the highest place we reach... His plan, His goal, His way.

"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

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Kids And Pets

The day was long and nigh well spent.
My energy got up and went.
I thought I'd just relax a bit.
I really wanted just to sit...

Till Kitty Cat came strolling through
And turned our house into "a zoo".
She had oped our Habitrail
And grabbed a gerbil by the tail.

Our daughter screamed and grabbed her pet
To save it from the cat's dire threat.
The gerbil was intensely scared.
For all this he was not prepared.

He clamped his teeth around her finger!
(This whole scene was some humdinger!)
Now our daughter was in trouble.
The gerbil's problems too were double.

She jumped up and down and screamed,
And "Gerbil" still was not redeemed
Till Daddy grabbed him by the tail
And placed him in the Habitrail.

We called the doctor and the vet
To "mend" our daughter AND her pet.
Kitty liked to "mouse" with pride.
But this time spent the night outside!

Our gerbils needed a new home
Before our cat was free to roam.
We gave them to a family
Where "safety" was a guarantee!

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Truth Shines Brightly

Truth is clear - it's black-and-white,
A tested standard shining bright.
But darkness tries the truth to quell
And always works it's lies to sell.

Darkness masks truth's definition
To try to foil our recognition,
Calling sin by fancy title,
Diluting truths which still are vital.

Truth is truth - it will not change.
God's tenets we can't rearrange,
Mixing them with subtle lies
Offered under pleasant guise.

Giving evil brand new names
Doesn't sell it's promised claims.
Only truth will not be moved,
For through all time it has been proved.

"That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they live in wait to deceive; but speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ."
Ephesians 4:14-15 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Size Of God's Grace

How will we know the size of God's grace
If we're not tested beyond our endurance?
How will we learn just how great it is
If we don't need His strength and assurance?

He fills the gap our shortcomings leave
By pouring out grace in sufficient amount.
His grace is greater than all of our need,
Constantly flowing... a Heavenly fount.

How we would fail, how bruised we would be,
If we did not have God's mercy and grace.
Grace is the bridge between weakness and strength
Which helps us to run a victorious race.

"And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness."
II Corinthians 12:9 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Prayer For Our Nation

Let righteousness and truth prevail.
Let sin and greed and evil pale.
For those burdens which we bear,
We beseech You, Lord, in prayer.

Give us wisdom day and night.
Let our beacon e'er shine bright.
Lord, we need Your mighty power
To guard is in this crucial hour.

Guide our leaders, one and all.
Let them always hear Your "call".
Our great strength lies in Your hand.
By Your mercies we will stand!

"I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; for kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty."
I Timothy 2:1-2 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Hidden Place

Lord, how we need Your healing balm
To soothe our fears and keep us calm.
For Your touch we deeply yearn,
As challenge lurks at every turn.

When we're anxious You bring peace.
In Your presence worries cease.
Hidden in Your secret place
We can find deep rest and grace.

You bring balance when we lean
And keep us safe from the unseen.
You know all our circumstance,
So we don't have to live "by chance".

"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

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Beauty Of The Lord

If you want to establish the work of your hands,
Follow the Lord and all His commands.
Seek to behold His beauty and light,
To dwell in His house through daytime and night.

Taste of His goodness and dine at His table.
Inquire of Him and He will enable
Your footsteps to walk the path He would show
And have all the blessings which He would bestow.

We can't outguess or outplan the Lord.
When we follow Him, we'll have great reward.
It is His beauty which blesses our hands
When we follow Him and all His commands.

"One thing have I desired of the Lord, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the Lord, and to enquire in his temple."
Psalm 27:4 KJV

"And let the beauty of the Lord our God be upon us: and establish thou the work of our hands upon us; yea, the work of our hands establish thou it."
Psalm 90:17 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Look For The Gold

Look for the "gold" in others you see,
Those who are quiet and serve faithfully,
Those who don't look for credits or fame
And oft don't receive reward or acclaim.

Some of these folks work so hard to please.
It's good to acknowledge their kind expertise...
Waitresses, janitors, clerks in a store,
Or parents who labor to give their kids more.

This kind of "gold" is tested and pure.
It has been "fired" and o'er time will endure.
These are the folks whose lives have deep worth
And quietly to inspiration give birth.

"Honour shall uphold the humble in spirit."
Proverbs 29:23 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Seniors, Hang In There

If you're feeling useless
Like a flat or limp balloon,
Or if you feel outdated
Like an old and wrinkled prune...

Don't despair... look up and shout!
Don't let your spirit get the gout!
Seniors should not groan and limp
Nor let old age their "style" crimp!

You know more than young 'uns do...
Could show them just a thing or two!
Have some fun... and please don't quit.
We need your wisdom, wit and grit.

By your knowledge and your spunk
You can see through "bunk" and junk.
How we need your common sense
To help us live with confidence!

"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

"Those that be planted in the house of the Lord shall flourish in the
courts of our God. They shall still bring forth fruit
in old age; they shall be fat and flourishing."
Psalm 92:13-14 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Castles In The Sand

People build things in the sand
And try to make a castle stand.
But with the wash of just one wave
Their well-formed castle they can't save.

Life is just a lot like that,
Sending "waves" we can't combat.
The waves of time will wash away
Those "towers" we build and hope will stay.

In Christ we build what cannot crumble
As before Him we are humble.
Do not build upon the sand.
What is built in Him will stand.

"Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: and the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock. And everyone that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand: and the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it."
Matthew 7:24-27 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

God's Light

Illumine my darkness, I pray.
Let there be light in my way.
Lest I may stumble,
Lord, help me stay humble.
Help me to not go astray.

Help me to always be kind
And to love and peace be inclined.
So much is gained
When peace is sustained.
In this let me never be blind.

Help me to reach up and out,
To have increased faith and not doubt.
For I want to grow,
Your wisdom to know,
And to spread Your love all about.

"For you cause my lamp to be lighted and to shine; the Lord my God illumines my darkness."
Psalm 18:28 Amplified Bible

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Hymn Of Praise

Let my life be as a hymn,
A song of worship and of praise,
Breaking forth as morning sun,
A tribute to my Lord to raise.

Let my melodies be bright
As my songs of blessing ring.
Let my music have increase
In adoration to the King.

Let my hymn find echo in
My family and in my kin.
Let this worship never stop
Bubbling up from deep within.

"Serve the Lord with gladness: come before his presence with singing."
Psalm 100:2 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

His Gentle Presence

We are never left alone
To deal with problems, work and snares,
Because the Lord walks by our side
And answers even "tiny" prayers.

He will simplify our days
And look upon our every need,
Bring solutions which amaze
And gently through our problems lead.

He is there to lift us up
And lend an arm on which to lean.
His presence is a constant joy,
And deep within we feel serene.

"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

"In thy presence is fulness of joy..."
Psalm 17:11 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Heaven's Door

On that all-important date
When you stand at Heaven's gate,
Will the gate be open wide?
Or will you sadly be denied?

We don't know the time and place
When we shall see Him face-to-face,
But if you know our precious Lord
You'll receive a sure reward.

Jesus died to pay the cost...
That all mankind should not be lost.
To all who in His grace abide
Heaven's gates are open wide.

"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life."
John 3:16 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Remember His Benefits

If you're facing a high mountain
And you can't see o'er the top...
If you're needing "sunny weather"
And you want the "rain" to stop...
Remember, God has power.
He is a mighty tower.

If you're all stressed out
And new tensions start to rise...
When unexpected troubles hit
And come as a surprise...
Remember, God brings peace.
In Him, you'll find release.

He'll lift you up and give you grit
Beyond your own ability.
Remember all His benefits.
In Him you'll have a guarantee.
Remember, God is able
To guard and keep you stable.

"Blessed be the Lord, who daily loadeth us with benefits, even the God of our salvation."
Psalm 68:19 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Needed Answers

People will have problems which technology can't solve.
It takes the love of Jesus "people" problems to resolve.
Equations and solutions may be basis for good work
But do not offer help when in hearts the problems lurk.

Cell phones and computers offer ease with which to chat,
But some things folks encounter only wisdom will combat.
Jesus Christ is able to re-program what is stuck.
He brings heart solutions for the problems folks can't buck.

Brilliant minds create great tools to speed and simplify.
But Jesus offers answers which these brilliant minds defy.
If we listen to His voice, solutions will evolve.
He gives tools the heart can use technology can't solve.

"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

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Time To Consider

...A time to consider the needs all around us,
To share and to give to those who have less.
For something good happens way deep down inside us
Whenever we reach out and "caring" express.

Giving births hope and shows someone cares
To those who are hurting and may be hard-pressed.
We do not know how others may suffer,
But be reassured that they will be blessed.

God multiplies the resource we have
Each time we remember that some have it rough.
Helping another is good for the soul,
And always we'll find we have more than enough.

"(Charge them) to do good, to be rich in good works, to be liberal and generous of heart, ready to share (with others)."
I Timothy 6:18 Amplified Bible

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

In Him We Live

Have you ever noticed how
Some folks have good resilience,
Through thick-or-thin and challenge
They just have an inner "brilliance"?

They are never down for long.
They're like a perky jack-in-the-box.
They just have a buoyancy
No matter what their paradox.

They are not discouraged
By the failures of the past.
They put their faith in Jesus Christ
And to His Word hold fast...

Knowing He will lead them on
And cause them to excel.
These folks have chosen wisely
On a higher plane to dwell.

"For in him we live, and move, and have our being..."
Acts 17:28 KJV

"For the joy of the Lord is your strength."
Nehemiah 8:10 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Two Of A Kind

A person who meddles
Affects one like nettles.
They think they "belong",
But their actions are wrong!

Gossips are worse,
With tales to disburse.
They take what they hear
To spread far and near!

Both stir up tension,
Strife and dissension.
Neither is pretty,
Nor even is witty.

Of these two beware!
Your business don't share.
Without tales to weave
They soon will take leave.

"He that passeth by, and meddleth with strife belonging not to him, is like one that taketh a dog by the ears."
Proverbs 26:17 KJV

"Where no wood is, there the fire goeth out: so where there is no talebearer, the strife ceaseth."
Proverbs 26:20 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

God's Artistry

God has a palette of colors and hues,
Beautiful shades from which He will choose,
To color our lives with beauty and flair,
To bless us with riches, unusual and rare.

His are the colors, we are His art.
He "paints" us with beauty and sets us apart
For His special purpose and holy design.
It is HIS artwork that makes us to shine.

"Know ye that the Lord he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture."
Psalm 100:3 KJV

"But know that the Lord hath set apart him that is godly for himself..."
Psalm 4:3 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Think About Jesus

Think about God's precious Son.
Contemplate what He has done,
Giving self to clear our shame,
In our place assuming blame.

Think about the love He shared
And just about how much He cared...
How He suffered and endured
So our salvation was ensured.

Think about eternity,
Of which He brought us guarantee,
Of Heaven's wondrous open door
And praising Him forevermore.

"And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world."
I John 2:2 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Planning Ahead

Many people are "at risk"
Because they haven't given thought
To where they are and where they're going,
Using wisdom as they ought.

Time and resource flee away
When we're not diligent to plan.
How much progress have we made
Since the time when we began?

Prayer and forethought cover much
And save us from much wear and tear.
God will simplify our paths
When we seek His will in prayer.

"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

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Angel Prayers

Prayers sent on angel wing
Peace and love will softly bring.
Gentle as the morning dew,
These sweet prayers make all things new.

Friendship prayers from the heart
Cause earthly problems to depart.
These are blessings flowing out
Like a healing waterspout...

To bring refreshing from above
And touch us with the Father's love.
I'm sure glad for friendship prayers.
It makes me know an "angel" cares.

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Platforms And Service

The prideful one says, "Look at me.
I'm important, don't you see?
Platforms are my favorite place
Where I can prate and make my case."

Humble folks desire to serve
And quietly they will observe
The "goings on" of prideful folk,
But will avoid pride's ugly yoke.

Humble folks get much work done
(While prideful ones sometimes do none).
These kind folks say, "Thee, not me",
As they serve with love and glee.

"Though the Lord be high, yet hath he respect unto the lowly: but the proud he knoweth afar off."
Psalm 138:6 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Shadow Of The Almighty

As I dwell within Your shadow
I have covering for each day.
I find strength and comfort there
And know that I will be okay.

No matter what the challenge,
I will rest beneath Your wing
And find my hope and confidence
Within the peace You bring.

I'll not be alone nor
Dash my foot against a stone.
I will not look down
Or be in fear of the unknown.

You're my shield and buckler.
'Neath Your covering I'll reside.
I will draw my strength from You.
In You I will abide.

"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. For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways. They shall bear thee up in their hands, lest thou dash thy foot against a stone."
Psalm 91:1-2, 11-12 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Warm Touch

Neighbors come and neighbors go,
But some we never get to know.
We don't know the heavy cross
Which some may carry... or the loss.

But we can bless them by our prayers
And let them know that someone cares.
We can be a ray of hope
To those who cannot seem to cope.

Some may only need a smile
To help them go an extra mile,
Just to know they're not alone,
Because of friendship we have shown.

The world is harsh and cold for some,
But warmth we show may be the "crumb"
To perk them up and bring them joy...
A shining light and needed buoy.

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

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf