Thought Patterns

Are cares of this world in the bulk of your thoughts,
Crowding your thinking for space and for time?
Or Scripture and prayer laced through all that you do,
Causing your thoughts to be vital and prime?

When filled with the Word, our cares become dim.
Worries and conflicts are kept down to size.
They can't consume us and just wear us out
If living for Jesus our thoughts wil comprise.

Commitment and focus on who Jesus is
Will alter our habits and patterns of thought.
Perspective will change and peace will come in
As we choose to honor the Lord as we ought.

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

"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

Heavenly Reward

Jesus goes before us, and it's He who opens doors.
When we serve Him faithfully, blessings He outpours.
Life in service to our Lord is truly set apart...
A very special calling which is birthed within the heart.

Stepping in His footprints and following His lead
Will take us to new heights in life and cause us to succeed...
Not by standards man would set, but by His special plan.
Then when we have finished, Heav'n will cheer the race we ran!

What a joy to find His path and know when life is through
That Heaven will be waiting and will welcome me and you.
We will gain a glimpse of Heaven while serving here on earth
And be assured of entering there... reward of highest worth!

"And this is the will of him that sent me, that every one which seeth the Son, and believeth on him, may have everlasting life: and I will raise him up at the last day."
John 6:40 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Brick Upon Brick

Brick upon brick a strong wall is built,
With mortar to seal it so it will not tilt.
The key is the mortar... it keeps things in place.
It may not show, but it makes a strong base.

Prayer is as mortar in all that we build.
Our "walls" will be strong if with prayer they're filled.
And if we add love to the mortar of prayer
Our walls will reflect the Master Bricklayer.

The temples and walls we build with our prayer
Will withstand life's storms and fierce wear and tear.
And e'en though our walls may seem rather humble,
With mortar of prayer these walls will not crumble.

"Except the Lord build the house, they labour in vain that build it..."
Psalm 127:1 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Contentment

Do you have contentment in your circumstance or lot?
Or do you always wish for change, then struggle... all for naught?
Having more or making change may not bring peace or rest.
Contentment is a choice we make when we are tired or "pressed".

If we find our peace in God we will be at ease and glad.
Do not fuss and fume and fret, complain and sometimes e'en be mad.
Contentment is that precious rest which praises God in great or small,
Rejoicing in His lovingkindness, resting in His grace in all.

"Godliness with contentment is great gain."
I Timothy 6:6 KJV

"Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, 'I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.' "
Hebrews 13:5 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Holiness In Leadership

We cannot look at the type of the gift
Which God placed within us when we first began
And think of ourselves as greater because
We're prospering in what we know is His plan.

Leaning on Him in the midst of success
Will keep evil out and save us from sin,
For as we're bowed down and humble of heart,
We cannot be tempted way deep down within.

Though we be "visible", we must stay "hidden",
Seeking God's holiness, hearing His voice,
Lest we're distracted by schemes and diversions
Which pull us away from His very best choice.

Our God is holy and searches the hearts,
Seeking for one who is Godly and pure.
If we are leaders we then must be guarded,
For only in Him are our footsteps secure.

"Know thou the God of thy father, and serve him with a perfect heart and with a willing mind: for the Lord searchest all hearts, and understandeth all the imaginations of the thoughts: if thou seek him, he will be found of thee..."
I Chronicles 28:9 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A New Day's Promise

Jesus,
Here is my heart. Please fill it today
With insight and wisdom and courage, I pray.
Let me respond with worship and praise.
With newness of life let me be ablaze.

Each day has promise... a gift which You give...
A blessed opportunity for me to live.
Help me to grasp the greatness of this
So I will have victory and no portion miss.

You give me challenge, and You set my pace.
As I yield to You I'll rest in Your grace.
Let my day be measured with wisdom and skill,
That all of Your purpose I might fulfill.

"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

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

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Peace-Filled Heart

Many hearts need healing and relief from strife with man.
A healthy heart, when filled with peace, anxiety will ban.
Jesus' peace will guard a heart and keep it free from stress,
But we must choose to let Him come in place of our distress.

Sometimes He is shoved aside as daily cares press in,
Residing in the background, watching heart "aches" then begin.
If we let Him fill our hearts and let the heartaches go,
Deep within His peace will be a constant, healing flow.

Problems and emotions cause our heartbeats to be ill.
Jesus' words to us would be, "Peace, my child, be still".
He desires that we have joy, and in that joy look up,
For then His peace will heal our hearts and richly fill our "cup".

"For he is our peace..."
Ephesians 2:14 KJV

"And let the peace of God rule in your hearts..."
Colossians 3:15 KJV

"I have set the Lord always before me: because he is at my right hand, I shall not be moved."
Psalm 16:8 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Conscience

(A Children's Poem)

We cannot hide a single thing.
God sees all we do!
He looks down into our hearts
And knows if we've been true.

We can hide our hearts from some
(And try to hide from God).
But it really is no use.
Our conscience He will prod.

Conscience helps us to be good
And tells us when we're wrong.
This is how God teaches us
So we will grow up strong.

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Freedom's Cause

Men of bravery, men of gold,
Men of youth, men of old,
We salute you once again
For guarding us where'er you've been.

Some, with your own lives, have paid.
Your memory will never fade.
You stood strong through battles tough.
Our tribute ne'er will be enough.

So today we humbly pause
Because you fought for freedom's cause.
Unselfishly you gave your all
When you answered country's call.

Thank you, one and all who serve.
Highest honors you deserve!
Whene'er we see you we are proud.
In prayer for you our hearts are bowed.

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Glorious Song

I heard the choir's voices raise
A glorious song of prayer and praise.
How my spirit lifted up!
Surely this was Heaven's "cup".

What is better than a choir
To touch the heart and joy inspire,
When harmonies and blended sound
Softly echo and resound.

Heav'nly sounds waft to and fro
And gentle peace and joy bestow.
Surely this is Heaven's touch...
Dimension which we need so much!

"Give unto the Lord the glory due unto his name: bring an offering, and come before him: worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness."
I Chronicles 16:29 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Poise And Confidence

Poise, when birthed in Jesus' love, cannot be moved or jarred.
It's balance is consistent, and it's beauty won't be marred.
It has sweet composure with great steadiness and grace...
A much-desired quality to study and embrace.

Jesus brings the confidence, the calm and inner peace.
When we walk in faith and love our "poise" will have increase.
Jesus' love within us is unflappable and calm,
Resting there in quietness,... a lovely, healing balm.

"For the Lord shall be thy confidence..."
Proverbs 3:26 KJV

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

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

In Your Presence

Lord, You are my hiding place,
A sweet oasis in life's race,
Where I may come and drink and live
And find refreshing which You give.

Deep within that secret place
I'm washed in Your amazing grace.
As I bow and worship You,
I am changed to see anew.

Worldly cares grow faint and dim.
I only hear a glorious hymn,
Gently ringing in my soul.
Your presence, Lord, has made me whole.

"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

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

God's Great Gift

Some folks, by the choice they make,
Will forfeit "life" on paths they take,
Suffering eternal loss.
Their wasted lives will count as dross.

"Instant" glory, wealth and fun
Have fleeting worth when life is done.
Only in God's precious plan
Are Heaven's glories found by man.

Salvation offers Heav'nly place
To those who seek the Savior's face.
This is God's great gift to all...
His heart's desire and loving call.

"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

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Think About Our God

Savor the goodness of God...

Think on His majesty and splendor and glory... and then realize that He is your friend and my friend. He is knowable and gentle. He pours out tender mercies on us in a constant, healing stream. He loves us and responds to our call.

Think about our God and how He is the foundation upon which we rest... how He defends us and gives us watchcare, how He hears our whispered prayers. He becomes our steadiness. He is the Light by which we see and the One in Whom we rest... the One in Whom we have life and hope.

Think about our loving God, and let Him carry you triumphantly through each day and each season. Rejoice and be glad!

"I willl praise thee, O Lord, with my whole heart: I will shew forth all thy marvellous works. I will be glad and rejoice in thee: I will sing praise to thy name, O thou most High."
Psalm 9:1-2 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Wheat

So much we do may simply be chaff,
Except what we do in Jesus' behalf.
As we are wheat and "die" for His cause,
The yield of our lives will draw Heav'n's applause.

Kernels of wheat which fall to the ground
Will rise up again as grain more profound.
God multiplies the grain which was sown
As "food" for the multitudes who are unknown.

We may be "planted" again and again
In service to Him so we may draw men
As laborers into His fields of grain,
Gathering "store" for Heaven's domain.

"Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone: but if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit."
John 12:24 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Let Peace Rule

When the waters of dissension
Start to trickle and to flow,
If action isn't taken
Animosity will grow.

Jealousy and strife and gloom
Are seeds we shouldn't sow.
These are seeds with ugly roots
Which only bring us woe.

God would have us live in peace
And not to live in tension.
With kindness and with love
We can work toward good prevention.

"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 without hypocrisy. And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace."
James 3:16-18 KJV

"And let the peace of God rule in your hearts..."
Colossians 3:15 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Words With Wings

Let my words rise up with wings
And soar o'er daily, mundane things,
Reaching heights of Heav'n's ease
And currents of God's Heav'nly breeze...

Lifting others up on high
And helping them have wings to fly
Above the "pull" of earth-bound woe,
Attaining bliss of Heaven's flow.

In God we find blessed overview
And soar with Him in all we do.
I pray my words will have strong wings...
To rise above world-weary things.

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Rainbow Promises

Rainbows do not grace the sky without a little rain.
(Without some life experiences we will have no gain).
When rain clouds sometimes hover o'er and do not go away,
In God's perfect timing we will see a brighter day.

In rain is hidden treasure as we learn to know the Son.
While waiting for the rainbow His precious work is done.
And when the Son breaks through the clouds our eyes will upward turn
To see God's rainbow promise as the "light" for which we yearn.

On the back of every cloud are many rainbows waiting,
To be spilled out upon our lives, His promises re-stating.
Graced by Heaven's rainbows, our lives become a story
Of richness from the Father's hand. To Him be all the glory!

"Because he hath set his love upon Me, therefore will I deliver him; I will set him on high, because he hath known My nanme. He shall call upon Me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him and honour him. With long life I will satisfy him, and shew him My salvation."
Psalm 91:14-16 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

God Is Faithful... Always There

If you have a situation
And you don't have revelation,
God will help you with your plight,
Give direction and bring light.

Sometimes if you're quite perplexed
And by irritations vexed,
Answers will be found in Him.
He'll lift you up when hope is dim.

Though you sometimes cannot see,
If you trust, He'll set you free.
God is faihtful... always there
To hear your prayer and give you care.

"The Lord is my portion, saith my soul; therefore will I hope in him. The Lord is good unto them that wait for him, to the soul that seeketh him."
Lamentations 3:24-25 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Inner Beauty

Inner beauty cumulates through time spent with the Lord.
As we love and serve Him, in our lives we have reward.
He will change us deep within and fill us with His light,
Transforming how we may appear... He makes us to shine bright.

Even through the wear and tear of years and time and age,
The beauty of the Savior's love will write a fresh new page.
Beauty, love and gentleness are gifts which He bestows.
His loveliness will multiply and blossom as a rose.

"For the Lord taketh pleasure in his people: he will beautify the meek with salvation."
Psalm 149:4 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Wings To Soar

You are my joy when deep inside I sigh.
You are the wings which enable me to fly.
You are the wind which takes me to new height,
Who sets me in high places and fills me with delight.

You are the fire which deep within me burns
And fills me with a warming flame. For You my spirit yearns.
You are skillful hands when I simply cannot reach.
You become a ready voice when I am lacking speech.

You are mighty power to help me climb a mount,
And when I'm tired or thirsty, You become my fount.
I know in all my frailty that You will give me wing,
Causing me to brightly soar and joyful worship bring.

"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

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Fragrant Oil

Humility, as fragrant oil,
Will soften up the hardest "soil".
Quietly it soothes and heals
And special loveliness reveals.

It's inner beauty suffers long
When hampered by pride's sin and wrong.
Humility will heave a sigh
But ne'er to pride will it draw nigh.

But then should pride begin to bow
Humility will softly plow
And loosen up the hardened soil
By pouring out it's healing oil.

"For thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy; I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones."
Isaiah 57:15 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Stretch And Grow

Just when we get comfortable
It may be time to stretch and grow.
The Lord will always lead us on
And teach us what we need to know.

As we follow and accept
His challenges and learning pace,
He will keep us well-prepared
And give us "tools" we can embrace.

If we try to rush ahead
We might just miss a needed skill.
If we tend to lag behind
We may not all His plans fulfill.

It's easy not to want to change,
For "stretch and grow" might mean hard work.
We should rise to meet the challenge...
Growing we should never shirk.

"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

A Broken Reed

Even as a broken reed
Some are weak and much in need.
Jesus, by His gentle hand,
Will lift the reed so it may stand.

His compassion and His grace,
His loving care and strong embrace,
Will cause the reed to have new health
And fill the reed with wisdom's wealth.

Though the reed was bended low,
With new knowledge it will grow
Into a planting strong and tall...
One which will not bend or fall.

Though strong winds blow or bring new threat
All it's nurture will be met.
For Jesus looks upon the needs
Of tiny, struggling, tender reeds.

"Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you..."
James 4:8 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

An Urgent Time

Be alert, and do not sleep
Lest dangers up behind you creep.
God will give His people vision...
They will see with tuned precision.

This is not a time for "laze".
Many prayers we should raise.
Caution speaks, "Be at the ready.
Asking God to make you steady."

Seek His voice and heed His call
In every matter, great and small.
He's a God of might and power,
Our shelter in this urgent hour.

"See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil."
Ephesians 5:15-16 KJV

"For thou has been a shelter for me, and a strong tower from the enemy."
Psalm 61:3 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Keeping The Heart Well

When a heart is overloaded with the weights and wiles of sin
And the memory of worldly ways are held and stored within,
That heart has a burden which is foolish and unwise.
It's rhythm is unhealthy, for good health the sin denies.

The sin may not be "stealing" nor may violate the law,
But if the heart lacks "fruit" and love the heart has serious flaw.
Bitterness and anger, birthed of jealousy or hate,
Or pride and deep self-pity leave the heart in darkened state.

How often is a sin-clad heart disguised behind facade and smile.
Reluctant to admit it's wrong, it will be sick and go through trial.
If the heart will open up and Jesus' love begins to flow,
He will heal and make it new, and then good health the heart will know.

"For the Lord seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart."
I Samuel 16:7 KJV

"Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God."
Matthew 5:8 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Sharing His Light

Lord, let Your work in me have sway,
That all my labors might convey
Your precious light to hurting souls
And rescue some from sin's dark tolls.

Cause my life to stretch and bend,
That all I do Your love will send.
Make of me a lantern bright
To pierce through darkness when it's night.

Fill me with Your holy oil
To share with those who fret and toil.
Be my strength and might and power,
For many need You in this hour.

"How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!"
Romans 10:15 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Love Heals

Love is a healer and makes one feel strong.
It always is kind and covers a wrong.
It will see beauty... and beauty will sow.
It spreads it's good will near and far, to and fro.

Love will "mend fences", and sponsor new life,
Bridging with care over tension and strife.
It looks not at "self" nor puffs itself up
But offers compassion and blessing's sweet cup.

Love overcomes... it brings warmth and cheer,
Sponsoring hope and erasing much fear.
Love stands the test of storm and "foul weather".
It is the balm which puts lives together.

"Love never fails..."
I Corinthians 13:8 Amplified bible

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Peace And Stillness

Our minds are busy... filled with thought,
And in this pattern we get caught.
Focus sometimes just gets lost,
And stillness is the high-priced cost.

Stillness is that blessed state
Where to the Lord we can relate.
Just to hear His precious voice
Is treasured reason to rejoice.

E'en in times of strain and stress
Inner peace we can possess.
The Lord will cause us to be still
And all our thoughts with peace will fill.

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

"Be still and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth."
Psalm 46:10 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Too Much Clutter

Clutter is a stumbling block.
And maybe says we should take stock
To see why "order" fell apart
And maybe make a better start.

Order is a blessed state,
A good way to un-complicate.
Maybe we have too much stuff
Or just don't organize enough.

This is not a laughing matter.
Too much stuff our time will scatter.
Then confusion enters in
And soon we find it hard to grin.

We must grit our teeth and say,
"I will make a change today!"
(Or maybe just get rid of stuff
And only keep what is enough!)

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Happy Mother's Day

A CROWN FOR MOM

May God pour out blessing on Moms everywhere
And bring them reward for their love and their care,
For serving their families without self-concern.
The honors they get, they quietly earn.

A Mom should be honored for each simple task
She willingly does, e'en when you don't ask.
God knows her heart and hears all her prayer.
Of her deep concern He is always aware.

She labors to raise all her children up strong,
To teach them the Word, to know right from wrong.
She honors her husband and gives him strong cause
To utter her praise and offer "Hurrahs"!

Mom is the "glue" that holds home together.
She "covers" her family through storm and bad weather.
She offers encouragement, wisdom and wit.
She is the one who keeps family close-knit.

"She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness. Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her."
Proverbs 31:27-28 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Grace Of The Lord

He fills my life with grace every day,
Enabling me to push my fears away.
He bridges o'er the gaps where I can't reach
And helps me to be confident in each.

When weary He gives strength to carry on,
And laughter when my circumstance is wan.
His grace becomes the balance in my day,
Is rich, and quite enough in ev'ry way.

How many times I'm covered by His grace,
My weakness and shortcomings to erase.
His caring is so great... so full of cheer.
His grace is my best friend and always near.

"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

The Goodness Of God

When we gather of the goodness
Of our kind and gracious God,
Our hearts are clothed in love
And our feet with peace are shod.

Our lives become His instruments...
We're in a different realm.
We're hidden in His secret place
With Jesus at the helm.

What better way to spend our days
Than seeking His sweet presence,
Gath'ring of His wisdom
And worshipping with reverence?

He will change us deep within.
To live for Him gives reason
To always serve Him faithfully,
To rejoice in every season.

"Because thy lovingkindness is better than life, my lips shall praise thee. Thus will I bless thee while I live: I will lift up my hands in thy name."
Psalm 63:3-4 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

National Day Of Prayer

A NATION IN PRAYER

A prayerful nation we must be,
Bowed in deep humility,
Interceding constantly
That we might prosper and stay free.

Holy God of might and power,
How we need You in this hour.
We have sinned and come up short.
Our leaders Godly tenets thwart.

We beseech You, hear our prayer.
Save us from this serious error.
God, have mercy on our land
That through this darkness we might stand.

"If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land."
II Chronicles 7:14 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Bright Hope

Our great God is very near.
Our smallest prayer He will hear.
To our need He will draw nigh.
He hears our heartbeat and our cry.

We are never left alone.
He watches closely o'er His own.
Faithfully He guides our way
And hovers o'er us day by day.

In Him our hope is sure and bright.
Instead of fear He brings delight.
We are covered by His grace
And hidden in the secret place.

"He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty."
Psalm 91:1 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Valiant In Prayer

Prayer warriors are much needed,
Lest our values be conceded,
Lost to those who dress their lies
In "pretty" phrases and disguise.

But for the truth we take up fight
To speak for what is just and right.
Battles can be fought and won
In prayer by many... or just one.

Joined in heart and joined in hand,
Interceding 'cross the land,
God's warriors don their battle gear
And to the throne of God draw near.

Almighty God, Your name we praise
And unto You our worship raise.
We Your people will proclaim
All laud and glory to Your name!

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

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Even As The Willow

Lord, even as the willow sways and bends with every breeze,
Let me e'er be pliable and all Your purpose please.
Let me always know Your voice and hasten to it's sound.
Let my sensitivity be quickened and profound.

As I sense Your "movement" and am caught up in Your will
I will have direction all Your purpose to fulfill.
Teach me, Lord, to rest and pause whene'er I should be still
And not to hurry on ahead before You give me skill.

Let me learn tranquility with beauty, as the willow tree,
Growing by the waterbrooks with graceful flexibility.
Quietly I wait on You to hear the whisper of Your voice
And deep within my spirit I will worship and rejoice.

"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

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Being Our Best

Every life has value, and every life has worth.
We may not see it clearly, but it's there from time of birth.
God gives special purpose and uniqueness to each one.
And each has opportunity to learn what God has done.

As we seek His purpose, all our footsteps He will guide.
And He will lead us by His hand as in Him we abide.
He will make us greater than we thought that we could be
And strengthen us to meet the mark of opportunity.

Why should we e'er settle for what's less than God's own best?
Why not choose to reach up and to make His best our quest?
We can't do this on our own but only by His grace,
But as we move in grace we then will find that higher place.

"For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them."
Ephesians 2:10 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Worship

The harmonies of Heaven resound throughout the earth
And deep within the heart of man to worship give sweet birth.
Adoration answers with expressive, lilting song
As creation bursts with loveliness of worship all day long.

Worship gently wafts and weaves throughout the atmosphere...
A blessing from our loving God... His message of good cheer.
He brings us new dimension with each creative strain
And fills our hearts with Heaven as we hear His sweet refrain.

God's harmonies are matchless and marvelously profound.
Echoing from Heaven in a symphony of sound.
When we stop to listen and give God reverent pause,
We will hear the wonder of creation's sweet applause!

"O sing unto the Lord a new song; for he hath done marvellous things..."
Psalm 98:1 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

No Longer Broken

Our God knows what to do with broken pieces! When we are broken He gently gathers up the pieces of our lives and puts them together in a beautiful new pattern.

He bonds them with the oil of love and compassion, and His healing brings hope and courage in place of darkness and impossibility. He lends strength in place of weakness and confidence in place of fear. He brings peace and tranquility as a soothing, healing balm.

In Him brokenness can be erased... and we have the ability to start anew.

How wonderful is our God!

"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

Where Are The Enemies?

Are the enemies within, or are they without?
What are the battles in life all about?
Some of our enemies lie in the heart
And when we can't cope become as a dart.

And so we must deal with what is within
Before bigger battles we can hope to win.
Anger, self-pity and pride are the worst.
And there may be others which should be reversed.

Battles within will keep us quite weak,
And if they're not dealt with, havoc will wreak.
When we rout out the enemies within
We will be warriors who conquer and win!

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

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Friendship's Caring

The laughter of a caring friend
An aching heart will help to mend.
For love and laughter lift one up
And seem to empty sorrow's cup.

Friendship is a healing tie...
A special love we cannot buy.
It speaks a message of good cheer,
"I care for you and I am here."

It seems to make the sky more blue
To know that someone thinks of you.
It brightly causes hope to rise.
This is friendship's special prize.

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

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Learning To Fly

How shall we begin to fly
And some day mount up in the sky?
How shall we learn secret things
And master heights with able wings?

God can teach us how to soar
And show us vistas to explore.
Deep in Him is knowledge found
Of how to soar and not be bound.

Silently with Him we learn
And there His skillful merits earn.
He will give us wings to fly
And take us high into the sky.

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Fountain Of Forgiveness

Forgiveness is a flowing fountain,
Healing waters for each "mountain".
Woundedness will find release,
And animosity will cease.

Pride and grudges love will foil...
Forgiveness is the needed oil
Which sponsors health and love and joy
And cancels barriers which destroy.

Forgiving hearts are filled with balm
And have a restful, inner calm.
Forgiveness never keeps a "count"
But always is a healing fount.

"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

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

So Much Beauty

If God could make oceans and mountains and skies,
Fill heaven with stars and make the sun rise,
If God could make seeds to grow from the ground
And create a tree or flowers which abound...

How could we question His caring and love,
Showered around us from Heaven above?
Should we not praise Him for all He has done?
Who could compare to Him? Not even one!

Our God is greater... beyond all we know,
The world we live in... One marvelous show
Of His love and beauty and wondrous delight,
A glorious display of power and might!

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

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Learning To "Rest"

Learning to "rest" is not quickly learned.
Experience will tell us it slowly is earned.
"Resting" is all about learning to trust,
For God's perfect timinng we cannot adjust.

Oh, what sweet blessing to rest in His peace
And feel anxiety's misery cease.
God brings tranquility... this is the place
Where we can relax and learn of His pace.

We are not meant to stand all alone
And manage our struggles and fears on our own.
To lean on our God and be wrapped in His peace
Is Heaven's sweet gift to bring us release.

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

"Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heaven laden, and I will give you rest."
Matthew 11:28 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Sturdy Foundations

A solid foundation is not built on sand,
Because over time it just will not stand.
This isn't much better than building on stilts.
When flood waters come the whole structure tilts.

We need God's wisdom to know how to build,
And from His great knowledge we'll learn to be skilled.
We will have structure which cannot be shaken,
And by storm and flood will not be o'ertaken.

If all that we do is anchored in God
The footsteps we take with safety are shod.
We cannot be jarred to the left or the right
Because we have chosen to live in God's light.

"As the whirlwind passeth, so is the wicked no more: but the righteous is an everlasting foundation."
Proverbs 10:25 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Don't Forget Prayer

We rush about to make a living
And don't take time for much thanks-giving.
When daily pressures overtake
We really need a prayer break!

For all we have may be as chaff.
We probably don't need but half.
And what we do may not have worth
Or to God's work give any birth.

It is good to oft take stock
So we don't just run out the clock,
Waste our time and come up short
Or do a work of no import.

How we steer our lives will matter.
Let our prayers be more than "chatter".
All our efforts can't compare
To what is done in fervent prayer.

"Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God."
Philippians 4:6 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The "Blind" Will See

We may have eyesight but be very blind.
Our "vision" is blocked by the thoughts of our mind.
Only the Lord can open our eyes
And show us direction and that which is wise.

Our blind spots are many, so we need His light
To penetrate shadows and open our sight.
How can we find the way we should go?
If we can't "see", we just will not know.

Lord, let the scales be gone from our eyes.
Heal our shortcomings that we may be wise.
All that would hinder must now fall away.
That we might have vision, we earnestly pray.

"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

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Praying Parents

When we see a precious child
Turn to walk a worthless road,
It's so hard to watch their steps
And see them waste the "seeds" we sowed.

And yet if we have raised them right,
We have promise they will turn,
Give up all their foolish ways,
Come back to us and truth discern.

How grieved our God in Heav'n must be
When our children go astray
And do not choose to honor Him
But follow their own selfish way.

As parents we must trust and pray
That God will save them from their errors.
He will hear our heartfelt cries
And bring them back because He cares.

"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

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Potholes And Ruts

Sometimes our lives get stuck in a rut...
We're facing a wall and all doors slam shut.
Or life's bumpy road with potholes is fraught.
We just can't get going as we think we ought!

The potholes and ruts just may be from God
To cause us to change the path which we trod.
Or maybe He's trying to get our attention
To cause us to grow or see new dimension.

Our welfare is safe in the palm of His hand.
We sometimes must grow to meet new demand.
We can move forward while standing in place
If we'll learn from Him and lean on His grace.

"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

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

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