Shifting Sand

Things of the world are structured in sand,
Sometimes quite bright and glitzy and grand.
But sand in the wind of the Spirit may blow,
And that which was "pretty" is tossed to and fro.

The "world" entices and offers it's prize
But has little substance... just flimsy disguise.
Pleasure is sweet in the moment of taste
But doesn't add wisdom... a pitiful waste!

Wisdom is steady and rests as a rock.
Unlike the world, it never will mock.
Wisdom gives anchor amidst shifting sand,
A firm undergirding on which we may stand.

"If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed."
James 1:5-6 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Careful Words

In everyday life we face situations
And people who challenge our peace with frustrations.
We can prevent, by wise use of the tongue,
The chaos which happens when folks are high-strung.

Words which are "measured" and quietly spoken
Will disarm most tension and heal what is broken.
The tongue is a tool, and when wisely used,
Will cause wrath and clamor to be much diffused.

Sometimes it's best to not speak, but give pause,
Until we are sure of the reason and cause.
Wisdom will guide us to know how to speak
And, when under fire, to be humble and meek.

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

"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

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Watching And Waiting

Are you watching and waiting for Christ's soon return?
In all your endeavors, how much do you yearn
To be in His presence and look on His face,
The worries and cares of the world to displace?

In the blink of an eye God's trumpet will sound,
And we shall rise up... no longer earthbound...
To worship our Lord, our God and our King,
All glory and honor and reverence to bring!

We do not know the day or the hour
When He shall appear in glory and power,
So we must be ready and look to the sky.
For Jesus is waiting and soon will draw nigh

"Behold, I shew you a mystery: We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed."
I Corinthians 15:51-52 KJV

"And then shall they see the Son of man coming in a cloud with power and great glory."
Luke 21:28 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Beautiful Canvas

Lord, what would you paint on the canvas of my day?
If my life could speak today, what would You have it say?
Help me to be patient as I wait for Your brush stroke.
Let me wear Your colors as a treasured, velvet cloak.

Would You paint me brightly, as a banner of good news?
Or add to me serenity in soft and gentle hues?
Maybe You would try new shades and make of me a blend
Of a rainbow's varied tints... Your beauty to extend.

I await your brush strokes in the early dawn of day,
Anticipating artistry in fresh and new array.
Each day is a portrait, filled with flair and great finesse,
A painted, heavenly design, Your goodness to express.

"On thee do I wait all the day."
Psalm 25:5 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Look Up!

Many are troubled, many perplexed.
Many by worries are burdened or vexed.
Darkness o'erwhelms and even brings fright
Until they find Jesus and live in His light.

He can transform a picture of gloom
And give bright perspective to offset all doom.
Yes, there are times when grief fills our cup,
But we will find comfort if we'll just look up.

We are not helpless... In Christ we have hope.
He always will strengthen and help us to cope.
Do not be troubled or even be sad,
For Jesus is able to make your heart glad.

"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

Integrity Speaks

Integrity speaks when no one is watching.
Honesty stands... if seen or unseen.
Facade may obscure a lie deep within,
But God's Holy Spirit our heart-thoughts will screen.

God will discern if we are "true-blue",
If shadow or spot could cause us to waver.
Hearts cannot hide, for He sees clear through,
And purity causes a heart to find favor.

Integrity has a strength of it's own
And it will have nothing to hide or conceal.
It is unchanging... it never will bend.
Truth is it's core... it's highest ideal.

"The integrity of the upright shall guide them..."
Proverbs 11:3 KJV

"I the Lord search the heart, I try the reins, even to give every man according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings."
Jeremiah 17:10 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Flower's Song

I have waited all year long
To see this summer sun.
When it's warm then I can bloom
And really have some fun!

I can brighten someone's day
And pour my fragrance'round.
When it's nice and warm like this
My blossoms will abound.

I will scatter seeds about
And multiply my summer fun.
I will make the most of this...
I want my job to be well-done.

After this the winter comes.
But while I have this chance to bloom.
I'll not yawn and say "ho-hums".
I will spread my sweet perfume!

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Worshipping The Lord

How rich is the experience of worshipping the Lord.
All issues of the day just fade away.
The treasure of His presence overcomes my tired thoughts
As I draw near to hear what He would say.

How precious are these times of refreshing for my soul.
Changed perspective comes as welcome light.
For that which seemed important has no worthiness at all
As worship lifts my spirit to new height.

The glory of the Lord cannot be explained in word.
To worship in His presence is profound.
Deep within, my heart is changed and stirred
And constantly does worship there resound.

"O come, let us worship and bow down: let us kneel before the Lord our maker."
Psalm 95:6 KJV

"Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created."
Revelation 4:11 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Seeds

Seeds, when planted in a heart
Their own identity impart.
We must guard our hearts from seeds
That would become as prickly weeds.

Tiny seeds we think don't matter
Grow and then more seeds will scatter.
Diligence will root them out
Before they start to grow and sprout.

Little seeds have much potential
And will be quite influential.
A seed which tiny seems to be
May just grow up to be a tree!

"But other (seeds) fell into good ground, and brought forth fruit, some an hundredfold, some sixtyfold, some thirtyfold."
Matthew 13:8 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

God Bless America

May all of our leaders before our God bow.
Reverence ahd holiness may they avow.
For God's ways are high... above all we know...
And will keep us from wavering to and fro.

We were established on firmest foundation
And need to respect it's Godly creation.
Surely God's favor has brought us this far.
He is our help... our bright, Shining Star!

May all who lead be found on their knees,
Seeking God's face for His expertise.
Therin lies promise for bright days ahead,
That through prayer and wisdom we may safely tread.

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

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Hope Of Heaven

When we leave earth our lives are not through.
Eternity hinges on that which we do.
We have two choices... Heaven or hell.
To attain Heaven we must live well.

God made provision when He sent His Son,
Desiring that none should be lost... not one.
When we know Jesus our future is sure.
Our promise of Heaven is sealed and secure.

Our God would draw us to be at His side,
Forever and ever in Him to abide.
Even today He calls out to the "lost"
And offers escape from hell's gruesome cost.

"For we know that if our earthly house of this tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens."
II Corinthians 5:1 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Gentle Word

A gentle touch will heal and soothe and set a person free,
For healing comes through nurture and sensitivity.
Wounded folks with deepset need are often tightly bound,
But by the love and grace of God true freedom can be found.

Even simple hurts and "snags" can cause folks to be "numb",
But if we show them love and grace they'll start to overcome.
What joy it is to watch one rise from sorrow into joy
As we by gentleness become to them a needed buoy.

We can cheer so many folks by showing that we care
And lift them out of woundedness just by being there.
They can find the strength to stand because they're not alone
And triumph in their lives again because of love we've shown.

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

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Heavenly Balm

In the stillness, in the quiet,
Silently You come...
Breaking through that weariness
Of life's continual "drum".

What refreshing! What sweet peace!
What endearing calm!
Sharing in these moments
With You is heav'nly balm.

Here I listen to Your heart,
The whisper of Your voice,
And linger in Your presence,
To weep and to rejoice.

Quietly I wait on You
In fellowship divine.
Little else is of import
Except with You to dine.

"In thy presence is fulness of joy..."
Psalm 16:11 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Foundation Of Truth

If your situation may seem to demand
That you make a change from where you now "stand",
The change may not be much more than a mite,
But in light of God's word, is it really right?

Change can be subtle and not seem to matter,
But then over time will weaken and scatter
Foundations of truth on which you have stood.
Carefully weigh this... it may not be good.

God's Word is truth and it cannot change.
Upon it's foundation we then should arrange
Our footsteps and lifestyle, lest we be derailed.
As we seek His truth, our eyes won't be "veiled".

"His truth shall be thy shield and buckler."
Psalm 91:4 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Fragrant Flower

A rose bush, though it brings forth the loveliest of blooms, isn't very pretty. It's stalks are woody and covered with thorns, and sometimes it's leaves are troubled by blight or insects. And if it isn't pruned it's shape becomes rather unsightly. But in spite of all this, it is capable of producing beautiful blooms with fragrance only God could create.

What a picture! God created a beautiful rose in each of His children, meant to blossom forth and spill out His fragrance. But in some cases it just may be surrounded by thorns and blights and troubled circumstances.

If sometimes you are troubled in life because your circumstance is not pretty, and you see too many thorns, or are annoyed by "insects"... and you think the rose God placed in you may never have a bloom with lovely fragrance, do not give up. God wants to bring forth the loveliness of the flower He placed within you. If you look to Him for nurture and receive His pruning as a gift to prosper you, surely fragrance will pour forth.

God has placed His potential for loveliness in you. As you are rooted in the Word you will become the gift of beauty and fragrance which He designed you to be.

"He has made every thing beautiful in his time..."
Ecclesiastes 3:11 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

God's Holy Word

God's Word is holy, and He does not change.
What He has spoken man can't rearrange.
If man just reads to "suit his own taste",
From that point with error his actions are laced.

All of the Word is needful to learn
If evil and wickedness we would discern.
How could we choose which portions are best?
Obedience demands that we make full quest.

Excursions of learning in God's Holy Word
Will pave a safe road and man's heart will gird.
Always the Word will lead us in truth...
Parents ahd children, old folks and youth.

"For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart."
Hebrews 4:12 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

People Who Inspire - John M.

John was an humble person and loved the Lord deeply. His transparency was remarkable and beautiful.

He gave a testimony in church one morning, and this was one of the statements he made... "I have discovered that without Jesus I am capable of just about anything"... (meaning sin). This was many years ago, but I've never forgotten what he said. How honest he was! And how honest we all need to be.

To the degree that we let Jesus into our lives is the degree in which we will be free from error and fault. In Him is light and freedom. He is our guide, our helper, our teacher, our fortress. He "tempers" us in all things.

Let Him come in... be free.

"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

Changed In His Presence

We wear many "hats" each day,
And sometimes they begin to weigh.
But when we enter Jesus' presence
We find rest and peace in reverence.

Here we let all tensions go,
Things which pull us to and fro.
Daily thoughts will seem as nil
As we are waiting and are still.

We are changed as we wait there
And of His healing are aware.
His presence is a blessed "retreat",
And there in Him we're made complete.

"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 eyelids, 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

In His Time

The eagle, in God's rightful time,
Will catch the wind and soar and climb.
It cannot soar when not quite ready...
Only when it's wings are steady.

Skill and "savvy" must be learned.
By practice is his high flight earned.
High flight when his wings are weak
Could make him fall and havoc wreak.

Eagles triumph in the sky
And to the doors of Heav'n draw nigh.
In God's timing, seasoned well,
On wind of Spirit they will dwell.

"To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven. He hath made everything beautiful in his time."
Ecclesiastes 3:1, 11 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Fashioned By God

If you haven't found God's purpose for your life and for each day,
You may be treading water as His best plan slips away.
Searching for fulfillment without His guiding hand
May cause you to make error or may leave you feeling bland.

God's design will bring you to a place which is unique
And give you opportunity... much more than you would seek.
Any venture hand-in-hand with God is better than
The goals and works and simple tasks which you yourself might plan.

How unfortunate the loss when "purpose" isn't found
And life becomes a treadmill where you just go 'round and 'round.
"Purpose" formed by God's own hand is joyous, full and rich.
And what He has designed for you is your own special niche.

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

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Worship On My Mind

Worship wafts throughout my day
In colorful and blessed array,
Bright'ning every thought I have,
Cheering me as healing salve.

Threads of song and lines of praise
Become as sunshine's warming rays,
Lifting me from daily task
And causing me in joy to bask.

Time is happily defined
When I have worship on my mind.
God is awesome... to be praised.
Let all my thoughts to Him be raised...

"Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice."
Philippians 4:4 KJV

"Give unto the Lord the glory due unto his name; worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness."
Psalm 29:2 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Mighty Tower

Jesus' name is our strong tower,
A place of refuge in this hour,
Filled with strength and filled with might,
A bulwark... safe against the "night".

We are sheltered from the storm,
To fear and doubt will not conform.
We will "hide" in Jesus' nanme
And to the world His power proclaim!

Jesus' name brings hope and peace
And from our worries brings release.
Jesus' name will be our tower,
A place of "resting" in this hour!

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

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Cent Or Two...

What we offer may be small...
A cent or two or such...
But offered from a heart of love,
The Lord sees that as much.

Jesus looks upon the heart
Of one with lowly means,
And has joy in that faithful one
Who on His promise leans.

He will honor that small gift
And blessings multiply,
Pouring out His goodness
And His love in sweet reply.

"And he looked up, and saw the rich men casting their gifts into the treasury. And he saw also a certain poor widow casting in thither two mites. And he said, Of a truth I say unto you, that this poor widow hath cast in more than they all: For all these have of their abundance cast in unto the offerings of God: but she of her penury hath cast in all the living that she had."
Luke 21:1-4 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Gift Of Color

God must have a giant brush...
Offering colors which are lush...
Painted beauty everywhere
For mountains, trees and plants to wear.

Nature bursts with color's gift,
Our spirit and our soul to lift,
Painted there to bring delight,
His loving signature to write.

"Wrapped" in color, we are blessed
And by His artistry impressed...
Shades and hues of warmth and light
To cheer our lives and make them bright!

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

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

High Places

In God we have purpose and reach for high goals.
He guides us and helps us to find our true roles.
But each time we think our labors are done
God may have new work which He has begun.

He stretches and bends us to prosper and grow.
He leads us to dwell where His fresh waters flow.
To be in the center of God's perfect will
Will fill us with wisdom and prayerful skill.

He is the strength and the power and might
Which carry us bravely to breathtaking height.
We need not look back, but always look up.
With His richest blessings He will fill our cup.

"It is God that girdeth me with strength, and maketh my way perfect. He maketh my feet like hinds' feet, and setteth me upon my high places."
Psalm 18:32-33 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Master's Touch

When we start out, we are but clay.
Without God's hand, clay we will stay!
If we submit to His skillful touch,
He will adorn us with beauty and such.

What great adventure to rest in His hand
And let Him adorn us as first He had planned!
We cannot capture or know His intent
But joy in the "artwork" we know He'll present.

When He has made us a vessel of worth
He then will fill us with heavenly mirth,
Perfecting us daily with wisdom and grace,
Holding us carefully in His embrace.

"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

Many Doors

Life will offer many doors.
Behind each one are varied "stores".
God will show us where to knock,
But on some doors He'll place a lock.

Some we really need to ope,
For inside we'll find joy and hope.
Each door is an entry way
Of wisdom which He would convey.

What is there may be unknown
And cause us inwardly to groan...
But if God unlocks the door
Inside must be golden "store".

Many doors our lives entice,
And some will carry quite high price.
But if we do not compromise
We will find God's highest prize.

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

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Bless The LORD, O My Soul

We cannot even measure God's benefits to us.
Oh what blessing, oh what joy, His goodness to discuss.
More than we imagine He hovers near our side
And joys in being with us to cover and to guide.

All that we can fathom is only a small start
Of that which He would give us and wishes to impart.
We are subjects of His love and awesome, healing touch.
Glory be unto our God that He would care so much!

Let us offer vibrant praise and worship with our voice.
Magnify His holy name, give honor and rejoice!
God is high above the heav'ns, yet hears our every prayer.
With our lives and in our hearts His goodness we declare!

"Bless the Lord, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name"
Psalm 103:2 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Birthday Cake

A birthday cake will signal one more year...
A new one to explore as the old one shuts it's door,
Reflection of the times which were so dear
And anticipation of good times in store.

A year is a great gift... a precious prize to hold,
A chance to make a difference or to soar,
Adventure as you watch each day unfold,
And accomplish more than you have done before.

If you give some thought to what you'll do
The days won't just slip past without import.
God might show you something which is new.
Enter in with joy, for a year can be quite short.

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

"Serve the Lord with gladness..."
Psalm 100:2 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Listening For His Voice

Drawing nigh unto the Lord
Will bring us insight and reward.
Drawing near we hear His voice...
A wondrous reason to rejoice!

Who are we... compared to God?
And yet in Him by grace we're shod.
He Who listens to our prayers
Rules o'er all, but truly cares.

"Listening" becomes a joy
As He gives wisdom to employ.
He, indeed, is our best friend,
On Whose voice we can depend.

"The Lord is nigh unto all them that call upon him, to all that call upon him in truth. He will fulfil the desire of them that fear him: he also will hear their cry, and will save them."
Psalm 145:18-19 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Who Is Watching?

We may never know who is watching us,
Who pattern their lives on our actions thus.
If we're a "window" which people look through,
Let us be sincere and always true-blue.

Let them see Jesus each time that they look.
Let wisdom be there as an open book.
We may be light or start a new fire
For one reaching up... new heights to aspire.

We may impact someone we don't know
And cause them to change, to stretch and to grow.
Living for Jesus is really "top-notch"
And will make impression on any who watch.

"Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven."
Matthew 5:16 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Doing Your Best

No matter how tiny the error that you make,
To just let it stand is a real mistake.
Make it right then, before you go on,
Before opportunity shifts and is gone.

For that which is "finished" with error at it's core
Will always have flaw which you cannot ignore,
Disturbing your peace so you cannot rest.
This memory of error is an unhappy guest.

That which is done, but not done quite right,
Won't have as much beauty or bring you delight.
If you show diligence and then follow through,
That which you've done will bring much joy to you.

"...Whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God."
I Corinthians 10:31 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

It's Not Too Late

Have you ever been at a point where you thought, "It's too late", and then wondered what was next? In times like this we need the Lord's perspective, for our own perspective sometimes runs out.

And this is maybe good. In Him we find new beginnings, new ideas, refreshing and possibility. When we are no longer able, we need to turn to the One Who is always able.

Coming to the end of ourselves is an open door for the Lord to work wonders. He will pick us up out of where we are and set us on a new path... a path of peace and blessing. Always in Him we are blessed.

"I called upon the Lord in distress: the Lord answered me, and set me in a large place."
Psalm 118:5 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Treasure

The fear of the Lord is a good place to start
If one would find wisdom to store in his heart.
Reverence for God is the key to the door
Of wisdom and knowledge and "riches" and more.

Wisdom is higher than silver and gold,
Brimming with wealth and treasures untold.
Man may have fortunes and "hoardings" on earth,
But these can't compare with wisdom's great worth.

Gathering wisdom will open one's eyes,
For insights God gives are truly a prize.
That which man stores is only as waste.
By fear of the Lord we with wisdom are graced.

"The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding."
Proverbs 9:10 KJV

"How much better is it to get wisdom than gold: and to get understanding rather to be chosen than silver!"
Proverbs 16:16 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

As Confetti...

God's blessings are so many that we could never count
The measures of His goodness or know the whole amount.
Sprinkling down upon us as confetti in the air
Is lovingkindness from His hand, e'en when we aren't aware.

We are covered by His love much more than we could guess.
His kindness is much greater than we can e'er express.
Celebrate our awesome God! Rejoice and give Him praise!
Worship Him with joyous song! All glory to Him raise!

"The Lord taketh pleasure in them that fear him, in those that hope in his mercy."
Psalm 147:11 KJV

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

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Guarding Our Freedom

I am grateful for my country
And the freedoms we have had.
We must guard our liberty...
In prayer we must be clad.

Prayer is the avenue
We need to travel now
To offset evil plans and schemes
And cause men's hearts to bow.

God will hear our urgent prayers
And gird us round about.
Prayer will bring us answers.
We must trust and not have doubt.

We have God's own promise,
And He never breaks His Word.
If we take the time to pray
Our prayers will be heard.

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

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Good Fruit

At the end of the day, are our labors for nought?
In that which we do, have we giv'n enough thought?
It's fruitless to labor at tasks with poor cause.
If there is no substance, then we should give pause...

To pray and to seek a work with good fruit.
To follow God's calling should be our pursuit.
Then all our work will have new perspective.
The key is to find and know God's objective.

Our time is well-spent when God shows the way.
He guides us and prospers our work day-to-day.
To bear worthy fruit should be our first call.
Then He will bless us... in great and in small.

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

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Sweet Savor

Let worship be as a sweet-smelling savor,
Sacrifice offered from hearts which don't waver,
Fragrant and pure to our precious Lord,
For all of the blessings on our lives outpoured.

Let it rise up with joy and thanksgiving,
Blossoming forth, glorious and "living",
Constantly flowing in beauteous expression
Of gratefulness, holiness and intercession.

Let worship rise in sweet exaltation,
Issuing forth through all of creation,
Blanketing all in sweet admonition
To give our great God His due recognition.

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

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Let Peace Abound

Let the peace of the Lord abound...

His peace is profound... as quiet as still waters, as refreshing as a soft breeze on a warm day, as gentle as the morning dew... an oasis in the heat of day.

Breathe in His peace. Let it absorb into your spirit. Experience transformation as all tension ebbs away. Reside in it's atmosphere and let it heal you.

The peace of the Lord is so worth pursuing. It is His provision for us in all circumstance and is life-changing.

Let peace abound...

"He leadeth me beside the still waters."
Psalm 23:2 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

Coffee Break

Housework sometimes is a bore.
Dust and clutter are a chore!
How come houses don't stay clean?
I need "down time" in between!

Piles of clothes don't wash themselves.
Books don't jump back onto shelves.
What is sticky on my floor?
Oh! Someone's knocking at my door.

Who said this is easy work?
Around each corner more tasks lurk.
When I'm done I have to bake.
To start, I need a coffee break!

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Test Of Patience

Early in the year a farmer plans his crops
And labors that his fields might be prepared.
When the time is right he plants his seeds.
Careful preparation shows he cared.

But then he is dependent on the Lord
And patiently must wait to see results.
When he sees fruition of work,
In the Lord he glories and exults.

When he's labored long and labored hard
The waiting time that follows is a test.
He must practice patience and endure,
Knowing in His time he will be blessed.

"But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing."
James 1:4 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Giftings Untold

God is the author of beauty and skill
And into our lives His goodness will spill.
In every person are giftings untold.
What joy multiplied to watch them unfold!

But how will we soar if we don't know Him?
Our gifts may lie dormant or seem just a whim.
He opens doors we don't know are there
And makes us to blossom with beauty and flair.

To miss the "adventure" which our God has planned
Is living a life perhaps aimless or bland.
For each He has planned a bountiful niche.
Potential in Him is fruitful and rich.

"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

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Almighty God

We do not know Your power, Your strength,
The size of Your love... the breadth or the length...
Until we are tested and reach out in prayer.
Then we will realize how much You care.

There is no valley too wide or too deep,
Nor is there mountain too high or too steep.
There is no challenge which You cannot meet,
Or battles and wars You cannot defeat.

When we're in need of the power of Your hand,
We then will trust that You'll help us stand.
Almighty God of power and might,
You are our strength, You are our light!

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

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

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Clearer Vision

Lord... Forgive me of unconscious sin,
If I have blind spots deep within
Which sometimes cause me to make error.
Help my "sight"... this is my prayer.

Help me to remember then
That I not fault others when
Their own blind spots they don't know.
Help me, Lord, Your grace to show.

Help me to be swift to learn,
And through prayer Your insights earn.
Take the blinders from my eyes...
Unconscious sin to recognize.

"Who can understand his errors? Cleanse thou me from secret faults. Keep back thy servant also from presumptuous sins; let them not have dominion over me..."
Psalm 19:12-13 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Walk Of Peace

I want to walk with footsteps of peace,
Causing dissension to wan and to cease,
Leaving an imprint of soothing and calm,
Establishing joy as sweet, healing balm,

Making a path which others may tread
For those who are weary and filled with much dread...
People who simply don't know where to turn,
But deep in their hearts for happiness yearn.

Lord, help me be a vessel of peace,
Enabling others to find deep release,
That they might know Your stillness and rest
And by Your touch be totally blessed.

"Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. 'Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid."
John 14:27 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

He Knows My Heart

Some days my greatest efforts
Do not amount to much,
And though I've really labored hard
Don't have "that special touch".

And then some days I move along
With energy and ease,
Pat myself upon the back
And think, "This was a breeze!"

The Lord will look upon those days
I worked and tried so hard.
Those might be the very days
When in His sight I "starred".

The work I do cannot be measured
In the sight of man.
My meekest efforts just might be
My best in God's great plan.

What is in my heart each day
Is that which God will measure.
Even though I be not skilled,
My worship is His treasure.

He can take my weakest skills
And make them shine as gold.
All that I will do for Him
Has benefit untold.

"...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

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Worship Rings!

Worship in my spirit plays
A glorious song of joy and praise.
Glory to our God and King!
Laud and honor to Him bring!

Magnify His holy name.
All the earth His works proclaim!
Worship Him with harp and voice.
In His majesty rejoice!

Pay Him honor, pay Him due.
He is worthy, just and true.
Celebrate and bring acclaim
To His glorious, holy name!

"O sing unto the Lord a new song: sing unto the Lord, all the earth."
Psalm 96:1 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Suspended In His Care

When we know Jesus and seek Him in prayer
Our lives are suspended and held in His care.
We can find peace for all our alarm.
Worry is needless... He shields us from harm.

His peace is real and brings inner calm,
Soothing our fears as a warm, healing balm.
Tensions and stress will just fade away
As we lean on Him and give Him full sway.

He is our steadiness... our place of rest,
Bringing tranquility for every test.
We are protected and held 'neath His wing.
We are His children. To Him we will cling.

"He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust..."
Psalm 91:4 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Tread Softly

It is wisdom to tread softly in everything we do,
For hasty words or actions may obscure a Godly view.
God will show us how to move if we will pause and wait,
Walking in His timing and obeying His dictate.

How much grief and sorrow we can bypass in this way,
By being slow to speak or move in all we do or say.
Reverence and humility will keep us in God's will
And add to us His balance... to tread softly with good skill.

Gentleness will douse the flames of possible dissension,
Bringing oil of healing and promoting good dimension.
Learning to tread softly is a meek and gentle art,
Developed over time by a wise and humble heart.

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

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

"He that is slow to wrath is of great understanding..."
Proverbs 14:29 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Happy Father's Day

A MAN OF GOD

A man to look up to,
A man who stands tall,
Who truly loves God
And gives Him his all...

A man of great kindness,
With heart of pure gold,
Full of much wisdom
And giftings untold.

Grounded in faith
And strong in His walk,
His life is well-lived
And not "idle talk".

Living the Word,
His life is a story
Of truly bright light.
To God be the glory!

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Picnic Time (Almost)

Summer's near - it's picnic time
But spring has been "a strain".
The weather man has let us down.
We just keep having RAIN!

A ray of sunshine sure would help
To brighten up the day
So we might barbecue a steak
Or maybe play croquet.

I want to roast a marshmallow.
I'm ready for some chips,
Potato salad and baked beans
And vegetables with dips!

Watermelon would be good
And lemonade for all.
But I guess we'll have to wait
Until we're past spring's "squall"!

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Words Which Linger

Let your speech be sweetly graced
And with God's love and peace be laced.
Words can be a healing balm
And foster lovingcare and calm.

E'en as sunshine shares it's light,
Your words may be as neon bright.
Laughter in your voice can bring
Some hope to which a soul may cling.

A voice as soothing as a shower
Is almost like a fragrant flower.
It's memory lingers on awhile
And, by it's beauty, brings a smile.

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

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Strength In Him

When you cannot make a change
But factors wish to re-arrange,
Ask the Lord to strengthen you
And show you what you need to do.

Let Him take away your fears.
Let Him wash away your tears.
In His presence there is rest
And sure relief for every test.

He will help you simplify
That which makes you tend to sigh,
And make you equal to your task
If you will simply pray and ask.

"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

No Fear - Hidden In Him

When turmoil and crisis and chaos abound,
Peace and direction in Jesus are found.
He is the anchor we need in this day
To guide us and save us, whatever the fray.

We should not question His might or His power.
Be hidden in Him in the midst of that hour.
Carefully watch and be quick to hear
Any small sound of His voice in your ear.

He is our peace... in Him we can rest
Through every trial, commotion or test.
He is our refuge... in Him we may hide.
He gives safe covering where we may 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."
Psalm 91:1-2 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Sanctuary

Purify my heart, O Lord,
Every fiber, every niche.
Help me reach transparency,
Without a shadow or a glitch.

Stretch and change my heart to know
A greater depth of wisdom's gold.
Let me hasten and be quick
Your love and teachings to enfold.

In every recess of my heart,
In it's deepest sanctuary,
May I be a worthy vessel
Of your love extraordinary.

"Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: and see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting."
Psalm 139:23-24 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Scheartzkopf

Sing A Lovely Song

Virtue plays a lovely song,
Pure and holy, all day long.
Honor brings it's harmony
And with virtue will agree.

Goodness, too, will add it's tune
And with beauty will commune.
If you listen you will hear
A symphony within your ear.

Let this lovely music play
Deep within your soul today.
Listen for each precious strain
And sing along with it's refrain.

"Whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things."
Philippians 4:8 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Come To Me

Our precious Lord calls out today,
"Come to Me, My child, I pray.
Do not pause or hesitate,
Thinking you have time to wait."

"Don't let cares get in the way
Or cause your thoughts to go astray.
Salvation calls to you 'don't wait'.
Even now the hour is late."

"Though your sins be manyfold
I will pour out love untold.
Heavenly promise contemplate.
Come to Me, My child... don't wait."

"Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me."
Revelation 3:20 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Treasure-Stores

Never look down on people of years,
For they have "fought wars" and shed many tears.
They have forgotten more than we have learned
And have wealth of stature which they proudly earned.

They will have wisdom beyond what we know.
Esteem and respect to them we should show,
For we have not walked as far as they have.
Their lives are a balm... a sweet, healing salve.

Our gray-haired folks are rich beyond measure,
Filled with the years and stores of good treasure.
Carefully listen to hear what they say,
For they have learned much in life every day.

"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

Waters Of The Word

The waters of the Living Word
A fruitful life will undergird.
When the Word rests deep within,
That life will prosper and not sin.

Constantly it is refreshed.
It's meditation is much blessed.
Living waters flood the soul
To heal, renew and make it whole.

And so this life is rich with fruit.
In the Word it has strong root.
It's living waters freely flow
And cause this life good fruit to grow.

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

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Praying For Our Nation

Holy God of might and power,
Guide our footsteps in this hour.
We, Your people, seek Your face
The works of darkness to displace.

Look upon our deep distress.
Rescue us from evil's press.
How we need Your strength and light
To offset darkness day and night.

What was birthed of You in prayer
Has fallen into serious error.
God, have mercy. We have failed.
Save us lest we be derailed.

We cry out and trust in You
To turn this tide and see us through.
Our foundation, built in prayer,
Has need today for much repair.

"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

The Artistry Of God

I see heaven in a flower,
And in a bird's wing see God's power.
Everywhere God's love abounds
In painted beauty which astounds.

Only God could build a "mount"
Or cause a bubbling water fount.,
Fill the oceans and the seas,
Or bless us with a gentle breeze.

His artistry in rich array
Blesses us in every way.
All worship be unto His name.
All glory to our God proclaim!

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

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

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