I once heard a woman say, "My mother taught me all the right ways to do things, but I just don't choose to do them that way." She knew what was right, but she just didn't practice what she had learned.
I wonder how many times we hear good teachings, and even agree with them, but only receive the ones which don't challenge us to change. When God speaks "change", He is moving or pulling us toward something better. We may squirm or say, "This doesn't fit", but if we don't move forward then we are falling behind and limiting the blessings God has for us.
If we listen intently to God's instructions and follow through, we will find our "highest and best" in life. For He will challenge and stretch us to be more than we ever thought we could be!
"Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits."
Psalm 103:2 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sunday, January 20, 2013
Saturday, January 19, 2013
Laughter And Grace
Laughter just makes life more easy,
Cheering hearts which may be "queasy".
It breaks tensions with delight
And makes the atmosphere feel bright.
If your day starts bogging down,
Laughter will offset a frown.
Choose to smile and have some fun,
Or think of funny things you've done.
Laughter turns grey skies to blue,
And merriment will bring you through
Those "grumpy" times which we all face.
Laughter is a form of grace.
"He that is of a merry heart hath a continual feast."
Proverbs 15:15 KJV
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Cheering hearts which may be "queasy".
It breaks tensions with delight
And makes the atmosphere feel bright.
If your day starts bogging down,
Laughter will offset a frown.
Choose to smile and have some fun,
Or think of funny things you've done.
Laughter turns grey skies to blue,
And merriment will bring you through
Those "grumpy" times which we all face.
Laughter is a form of grace.
"He that is of a merry heart hath a continual feast."
Proverbs 15:15 KJV
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Friday, January 18, 2013
Making Good Choices
We cannot make good choices
Just by listening to "voices".
God will show us what to do
And add ideas which are new.
As we seek to do His will
He will give us needed skill.
He will show us what to choose,
Ensuring that we will not lose.
Choices made too quickly
Have results which may be "prickly".
But when we make a Godly choice
We'll have reason to rejoice!
"Shew me thy ways, O Lord; teach me thy paths."
Psalm 25:4 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Just by listening to "voices".
God will show us what to do
And add ideas which are new.
As we seek to do His will
He will give us needed skill.
He will show us what to choose,
Ensuring that we will not lose.
Choices made too quickly
Have results which may be "prickly".
But when we make a Godly choice
We'll have reason to rejoice!
"Shew me thy ways, O Lord; teach me thy paths."
Psalm 25:4 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Thursday, January 17, 2013
God's Great Love
Man's sinfulness was very grave
Till Jesus died, our souls to save.
He became the sacrifice
For all our sin. He paid the price...
That we might enter Heaven's gate.
How we need to celebrate
Eternity with Christ the Lord.
What a beautiful reward!
God showed His love to us... each one.
He gave to us His only Son.
By His great love we are set free,
With Him to spend eternity.
"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
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Till Jesus died, our souls to save.
He became the sacrifice
For all our sin. He paid the price...
That we might enter Heaven's gate.
How we need to celebrate
Eternity with Christ the Lord.
What a beautiful reward!
God showed His love to us... each one.
He gave to us His only Son.
By His great love we are set free,
With Him to spend eternity.
"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
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Wednesday, January 16, 2013
On Time
Some folks just are always late.
With them you "hurry up and wait".
Often they will have excuse.
Of others' time this is misuse.
Being punctual is a gift.
It's measuring our time with thrift.
"Waiting" time is time that's lost,
And sometimes it will bring high cost.
Sometimes schedules are too tight,
And this creates a stressful plight.
Only do that which is prime,
And make a plan to be on time!
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
With them you "hurry up and wait".
Often they will have excuse.
Of others' time this is misuse.
Being punctual is a gift.
It's measuring our time with thrift.
"Waiting" time is time that's lost,
And sometimes it will bring high cost.
Sometimes schedules are too tight,
And this creates a stressful plight.
Only do that which is prime,
And make a plan to be on time!
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Tuesday, January 15, 2013
Waiting On God
With new plans we contemplate
Sometimes God will make us wait...
To think them over for "a spell"
And take some time to let them gel.
It's always wise to not "rush in"
So we don't fail or have chagrin.
God may shed some extra light
And give us careful oversight.
Wait and pray till you have peace.
His timing will bring you release.
Should He say, "This plan don't do",
Praise Him then for freeing you.
"Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths."
Proverbs 3:5-6 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sometimes God will make us wait...
To think them over for "a spell"
And take some time to let them gel.
It's always wise to not "rush in"
So we don't fail or have chagrin.
God may shed some extra light
And give us careful oversight.
Wait and pray till you have peace.
His timing will bring you release.
Should He say, "This plan don't do",
Praise Him then for freeing you.
"Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths."
Proverbs 3:5-6 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Monday, January 14, 2013
Gifts Of Learning
"Fun stuff" draws our children in...
A pattern we must bridle,
For it can take up all their time
And teach them to be idle.
Young folks with TV and games
Become almost addicted.
When their minds become too full
Their spirits are "afflicted".
Children not weighed down with "stuff"
Become much more creative.
Those who love good books and read
Are much more contemplative.
Arts and skills which they learn early
Give them joy and help them grow.
They will prosper as adults
From all the right things which we sow.
"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
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
A pattern we must bridle,
For it can take up all their time
And teach them to be idle.
Young folks with TV and games
Become almost addicted.
When their minds become too full
Their spirits are "afflicted".
Children not weighed down with "stuff"
Become much more creative.
Those who love good books and read
Are much more contemplative.
Arts and skills which they learn early
Give them joy and help them grow.
They will prosper as adults
From all the right things which we sow.
"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
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sunday, January 13, 2013
Soaring In Him
When we overcome the trivial
What a blessing is in store.
As we seek a higher plane
In the Spirit we will soar!
"Every-dayness" bogs us down
And tends to weary our precision,
But when we seek the Holy Spirit
He will open up our vision.
Gaining insight and perspective,
We will see in new dimension,
Moving in the Spirit's timing
With much greater comprehension.
"For in him we live, and move, and have our being..."
Acts 17:28 KJV
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
What a blessing is in store.
As we seek a higher plane
In the Spirit we will soar!
"Every-dayness" bogs us down
And tends to weary our precision,
But when we seek the Holy Spirit
He will open up our vision.
Gaining insight and perspective,
We will see in new dimension,
Moving in the Spirit's timing
With much greater comprehension.
"For in him we live, and move, and have our being..."
Acts 17:28 KJV
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Saturday, January 12, 2013
Rejoice And Be Glad
If sometimes you tire and bog down
And struggle to smile, not frown,
Shake off the weight of despair!
Rise up! God's goodness declare!
If you bask in His goodness you'll find
You can leave all the burdens behind.
He'll lift you up and transform your "view".
All of your thinking He will renew.
If in your spirit you're low
He'll give you new "get-up-and-go".
Rejoice in the Lord and be glad
And you will forget you were sad!
"Oh, that men would praise the Lord for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men! And let them sacrifice the sacrifices of thanksgiving, and declare his works with rejoicing."
Psalm 107:20-21 KJV
"This is the day which the Lord hath made: we will rejoice and be glad in it."
Psalm 118:24 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
And struggle to smile, not frown,
Shake off the weight of despair!
Rise up! God's goodness declare!
If you bask in His goodness you'll find
You can leave all the burdens behind.
He'll lift you up and transform your "view".
All of your thinking He will renew.
If in your spirit you're low
He'll give you new "get-up-and-go".
Rejoice in the Lord and be glad
And you will forget you were sad!
"Oh, that men would praise the Lord for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men! And let them sacrifice the sacrifices of thanksgiving, and declare his works with rejoicing."
Psalm 107:20-21 KJV
"This is the day which the Lord hath made: we will rejoice and be glad in it."
Psalm 118:24 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Friday, January 11, 2013
Balance
Balance helps us to get through
Confusing times with less ado.
Wisdom is it's strong foundation,
Coupled with communication.
Balance brings us evenness
And adds to us sereneness.
By events it won't be "tilted"
Nor it's confidence be wilted.
Emotions sometimes cloud it's view
And can make it be askew,
So guard emotions carefully.
Always seal them prayerfully.
Balance gives us clear perspective,
Helping us to be effective.
Often it will be required
And is much to be desired.
"And let the peace of God rule in your hearts..."
Colossians 3:15 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Confusing times with less ado.
Wisdom is it's strong foundation,
Coupled with communication.
Balance brings us evenness
And adds to us sereneness.
By events it won't be "tilted"
Nor it's confidence be wilted.
Emotions sometimes cloud it's view
And can make it be askew,
So guard emotions carefully.
Always seal them prayerfully.
Balance gives us clear perspective,
Helping us to be effective.
Often it will be required
And is much to be desired.
"And let the peace of God rule in your hearts..."
Colossians 3:15 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Thursday, January 10, 2013
A Heart Of Compassion
My brother Dave had a heart for people who were struggling in life...
One day he left his workplace at lunchtime and walked up to the park blocks around Portland State College to eat his sack lunch. He saw a man lying on one of the park benches, and he heard the Lord say to him, "Give that man your lunch." He did, and that was the beginning of a very beautiful friendship.
This man had been a writer for a large well-known newspaper in the Chicago area, and he had been high up in leadership of his church. But he lost his job, and then his marriage failed and he started drinking. At some point he had come to the Portland area. He spent some time in the Burnside area, drinking, but he decided he shouldn't be there so he moved to the park block area near the college where Dave found him.
Over time Dave took lunch to him a number of times, and on cold days would try to find him and take him to a restaurant to eat and get warm. Eventually someone gave this man a room to stay in, and he came back to the Lord. He had a very sincere, gentle spirit... a beautiful person.
Dave, because of his compassion for hurting people, was a part of this man being able to piece his life back together again, and this man had a new beginning in life.
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
One day he left his workplace at lunchtime and walked up to the park blocks around Portland State College to eat his sack lunch. He saw a man lying on one of the park benches, and he heard the Lord say to him, "Give that man your lunch." He did, and that was the beginning of a very beautiful friendship.
This man had been a writer for a large well-known newspaper in the Chicago area, and he had been high up in leadership of his church. But he lost his job, and then his marriage failed and he started drinking. At some point he had come to the Portland area. He spent some time in the Burnside area, drinking, but he decided he shouldn't be there so he moved to the park block area near the college where Dave found him.
Over time Dave took lunch to him a number of times, and on cold days would try to find him and take him to a restaurant to eat and get warm. Eventually someone gave this man a room to stay in, and he came back to the Lord. He had a very sincere, gentle spirit... a beautiful person.
Dave, because of his compassion for hurting people, was a part of this man being able to piece his life back together again, and this man had a new beginning in life.
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Wednesday, January 09, 2013
Peace Like A River
Let peace like a river come and flood my soul today.
Let rest and deep tranquillity offset my fears, I pray.
For in the midst of challenges or weariness or trial,
You are my "oasis" where I come and rest awhile.
Labors and anxieties are overcome by peace.
In You I find refreshing and a glorious release.
Let Your waters flow o'er me and vitalize my soul.
Basking in Your presence is the balm which makes me whole.
"Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee."
Isaiah 26:3 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Let rest and deep tranquillity offset my fears, I pray.
For in the midst of challenges or weariness or trial,
You are my "oasis" where I come and rest awhile.
Labors and anxieties are overcome by peace.
In You I find refreshing and a glorious release.
Let Your waters flow o'er me and vitalize my soul.
Basking in Your presence is the balm which makes me whole.
"Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee."
Isaiah 26:3 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Tuesday, January 08, 2013
Shadows
Darkness hides from truth and light.
It tries to cover it's own blight.
Shadows are it's chosen friend
Where it will hide to work it's end.
Let your light expose it's ploy.
It's masquerade you can destroy.
Keep surveillance... fend it off.
Don't let it come back and scoff.
Choose to be a blazing light
Where truth can rest and bring insight.
Light exposes evil's cause,
Uncovering it's many flaws.
"I am come a light into the world, that whosoever believeth on me should not abide in darkness."
John 12:46 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
It tries to cover it's own blight.
Shadows are it's chosen friend
Where it will hide to work it's end.
Let your light expose it's ploy.
It's masquerade you can destroy.
Keep surveillance... fend it off.
Don't let it come back and scoff.
Choose to be a blazing light
Where truth can rest and bring insight.
Light exposes evil's cause,
Uncovering it's many flaws.
"I am come a light into the world, that whosoever believeth on me should not abide in darkness."
John 12:46 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Monday, January 07, 2013
A New Vessel
A long time ago I had a dream, and in my mind I can still see what the Lord showed me in that dream.
I saw a broken teapot. It had been dropped and broken so many times that now it was just beginning to crumble apart. It seemed to now be beyond repair.
But then suddenly, as I again looked at the teapot, it was all shiny and new. It was totally restored to it's original beauty with lovely painted designs on it. As I looked closely I could see no hairline cracks in it at all. It was beautiful.
This teapot represented a broken life, and in the restored teapot I saw how the love of God had erased the brokenness and re-created that life to be even more beautiful than when it was first created. There were no signs of aging or wear and tear.
And this is the promise we have in Christ. He is able to take all the broken pieces of our lives and make them into something new and beautiful. He cares so much...
"Thou hast turned for me my mourning into dancing: thou hast put off my sackcloth, and girded me with gladness; To the end that my glory may sing praise to thee, and not be silent. O Lord my God, I will give thanks unto thee for ever."
Psalm 30:11-12 KJV
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
I saw a broken teapot. It had been dropped and broken so many times that now it was just beginning to crumble apart. It seemed to now be beyond repair.
But then suddenly, as I again looked at the teapot, it was all shiny and new. It was totally restored to it's original beauty with lovely painted designs on it. As I looked closely I could see no hairline cracks in it at all. It was beautiful.
This teapot represented a broken life, and in the restored teapot I saw how the love of God had erased the brokenness and re-created that life to be even more beautiful than when it was first created. There were no signs of aging or wear and tear.
And this is the promise we have in Christ. He is able to take all the broken pieces of our lives and make them into something new and beautiful. He cares so much...
"Thou hast turned for me my mourning into dancing: thou hast put off my sackcloth, and girded me with gladness; To the end that my glory may sing praise to thee, and not be silent. O Lord my God, I will give thanks unto thee for ever."
Psalm 30:11-12 KJV
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sunday, January 06, 2013
Step By Step
Patience comes when we are tested,
Not when we are calm and rested.
Problems sometimes irritate,
So we must learn to trust and wait.
Patience can't be bought or sold,
Quickly learned or time-controlled...
Only when we trust in God
And do not hurry, push or prod.
Patience has a perfect work
To do in us if we don't shirk.
It's end result makes us complete
As over time our trials we meet.
"My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing."
James 1:2-4 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Not when we are calm and rested.
Problems sometimes irritate,
So we must learn to trust and wait.
Patience can't be bought or sold,
Quickly learned or time-controlled...
Only when we trust in God
And do not hurry, push or prod.
Patience has a perfect work
To do in us if we don't shirk.
It's end result makes us complete
As over time our trials we meet.
"My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing."
James 1:2-4 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Saturday, January 05, 2013
Under His Wing
In Christ we will not suffer lack,
For His provision is not slack.
Circumstance may push and pull,
But in the Lord resource is full.
Our cup is filled with peace and joy,
And this becomes our precious buoy.
He knows which way we should go
When in ourselves we do not know.
No matter what the storm or test
In Him we have a place of rest.
When to Him we trust and cling
We're sheltered 'neath His mighty wing.
"He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler."
Psalm 91:4 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwatzkopf
For His provision is not slack.
Circumstance may push and pull,
But in the Lord resource is full.
Our cup is filled with peace and joy,
And this becomes our precious buoy.
He knows which way we should go
When in ourselves we do not know.
No matter what the storm or test
In Him we have a place of rest.
When to Him we trust and cling
We're sheltered 'neath His mighty wing.
"He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler."
Psalm 91:4 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwatzkopf
Friday, January 04, 2013
The Roads We Travel
In life we walk so many roads
And often carry heavy loads,
But as we walk them in God's light
Our "walks" will be content and bright.
When we can't see 'round the bend
Then on God we can depend.
Folks may ponder what we do
And think that we "don't have a clue"...
But in our God we have clear lead.
Our fondest hopes He will exceed.
From many roadways we can choose,
And He will help us win... not lose.
"Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths."
Proverbs 3:5-6 KJV
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
And often carry heavy loads,
But as we walk them in God's light
Our "walks" will be content and bright.
When we can't see 'round the bend
Then on God we can depend.
Folks may ponder what we do
And think that we "don't have a clue"...
But in our God we have clear lead.
Our fondest hopes He will exceed.
From many roadways we can choose,
And He will help us win... not lose.
"Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths."
Proverbs 3:5-6 KJV
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Thursday, January 03, 2013
God's Imprint On Our Lives
Following God will make us stretch
And in our lives new patterns etch.
Truths imprinted deep within
Will cause new blessings to begin.
Sometimes etching carries pain,
Is needful to accomplish gain.
When we want God's will for us
We must yield and not make fuss.
From His etchings we will learn,
And through them deeper insights earn.
His etchings bring to us deep change
And beautify our lives long-range.
"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
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
And in our lives new patterns etch.
Truths imprinted deep within
Will cause new blessings to begin.
Sometimes etching carries pain,
Is needful to accomplish gain.
When we want God's will for us
We must yield and not make fuss.
From His etchings we will learn,
And through them deeper insights earn.
His etchings bring to us deep change
And beautify our lives long-range.
"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
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Wednesday, January 02, 2013
A Song In Your Day
The best way to give your day a good start
Is worship the Lord. Let praise fill your heart!
Let your praise grow and blossom within.
You will have joy. Let worship begin!
Our God is mighty, is able to heal
And offset the tensions inside which you feel.
Though you don't think you're "in the right mood",
Bless Him with words of sweet gratitude.
Praise will become the song in your day...
A wonderful blessing in every way.
Worship the Lord... bring praise to His name.
Give Him the glory... His goodness proclaim!
"Praise the Lord! for it is good to sing praises to our God, for He is gracious and lovely; praise is becoming and appropriate."
Psalm 147:1 Amplified Bible
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Is worship the Lord. Let praise fill your heart!
Let your praise grow and blossom within.
You will have joy. Let worship begin!
Our God is mighty, is able to heal
And offset the tensions inside which you feel.
Though you don't think you're "in the right mood",
Bless Him with words of sweet gratitude.
Praise will become the song in your day...
A wonderful blessing in every way.
Worship the Lord... bring praise to His name.
Give Him the glory... His goodness proclaim!
"Praise the Lord! for it is good to sing praises to our God, for He is gracious and lovely; praise is becoming and appropriate."
Psalm 147:1 Amplified Bible
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Tuesday, January 01, 2013
Happy New Year !
The LORD Is Our Light
God is a tower of strength and great might,
Our shelter and refuge, our joy and our light
He is our fortress, in Whom we can hide,
A tower of safety where we may abide.
For all of His children His covering is sure,
A place of great peace, blessed and secure.
We do not need to tremble or fear.
The Lord is our light... and so very near!
"The Lord is my light and my salvation: whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life: of whom shall I be afraid?"
Psalm 27:1 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
God is a tower of strength and great might,
Our shelter and refuge, our joy and our light
He is our fortress, in Whom we can hide,
A tower of safety where we may abide.
For all of His children His covering is sure,
A place of great peace, blessed and secure.
We do not need to tremble or fear.
The Lord is our light... and so very near!
"The Lord is my light and my salvation: whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life: of whom shall I be afraid?"
Psalm 27:1 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Monday, December 31, 2012
A Path For The New Year
Beginning in this fresh new year
I want to have a listening ear,
That all the Lord speaks I'll not miss.
I pray for diligence in this.
He is faithful to provide
And all my ways to lead and guide.
The path He sets is safe for me.
He enables me to "see"...
So I'll not stumble nor will fall
In my endeavors, great or small.
When I choose to hear His voice
I know He'll cause me to rejoice.
"It is of the Lord's mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness."
Lamentations 3:22-23 KJV
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
I want to have a listening ear,
That all the Lord speaks I'll not miss.
I pray for diligence in this.
He is faithful to provide
And all my ways to lead and guide.
The path He sets is safe for me.
He enables me to "see"...
So I'll not stumble nor will fall
In my endeavors, great or small.
When I choose to hear His voice
I know He'll cause me to rejoice.
"It is of the Lord's mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness."
Lamentations 3:22-23 KJV
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sunday, December 30, 2012
Abundant Grace
My hope is in the Lord,
For earthly things are frail.
I know He'll keep His eye on me.
In Him I will not fail.
His grace is so abundant
And will help me carry through.
When I trust and lean on Him
He covers all I do.
He guides me and He spurs me on
And strengthens me to stand.
I can rest within His grace.
My life is in His hand.
"And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness."
II Corinthians 12:9 KJV
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
For earthly things are frail.
I know He'll keep His eye on me.
In Him I will not fail.
His grace is so abundant
And will help me carry through.
When I trust and lean on Him
He covers all I do.
He guides me and He spurs me on
And strengthens me to stand.
I can rest within His grace.
My life is in His hand.
"And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness."
II Corinthians 12:9 KJV
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Saturday, December 29, 2012
These Are They
Lives that count are not the rich
But Godly folks with quiet niche...
Those who walk their path each day,
Do not complain, but always pray...
Trusting God in all they do,
Knowing He will bring them through.
All the hurdles which they face
Are more than covered by His grace.
These are they whose faith has grown,
Leaving "wealth" to those they've known.
They in heaven will wear a crown,
For there these folks will find renown.
"Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing."
II Timothy 4:8 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
But Godly folks with quiet niche...
Those who walk their path each day,
Do not complain, but always pray...
Trusting God in all they do,
Knowing He will bring them through.
All the hurdles which they face
Are more than covered by His grace.
These are they whose faith has grown,
Leaving "wealth" to those they've known.
They in heaven will wear a crown,
For there these folks will find renown.
"Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing."
II Timothy 4:8 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Friday, December 28, 2012
Sowing Happiness
A cheery word can change a day
For one who's feeling quite blase'.
Spread some joy where'er you go,
For joy is a good seed to sow.
Be contagious with your cheer,
For laughter is so good to hear.
When you choose to be "upbeat",
For others you become a treat.
Others soon will smile back,
And laughter then will not have lack.
By your cheer you've filled a need.
You've sown happiness indeed!
"For the joy of the Lord is your strength."
Nehemiah 8:10 KJV
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
For one who's feeling quite blase'.
Spread some joy where'er you go,
For joy is a good seed to sow.
Be contagious with your cheer,
For laughter is so good to hear.
When you choose to be "upbeat",
For others you become a treat.
Others soon will smile back,
And laughter then will not have lack.
By your cheer you've filled a need.
You've sown happiness indeed!
"For the joy of the Lord is your strength."
Nehemiah 8:10 KJV
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Thursday, December 27, 2012
Reflecting On God's Goodness
Thankfulness changes our daily perspective
When on God's goodness we are reflective.
If we are "running" and going too fast,
The blessings of God we may run right past.
Our God is great and worthy of praise.
We should pause often and gratitude raise.
He is our fortress and mighty in power...
Our peace and our strength in this very hour.
Moments we spend in praising His name
Will change us inside... we won't be the same.
We will have joy as we're in His presence...
As we acknowledge and show Him our reverence.
"Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised..."
Psalm 48:1 KJV
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
When on God's goodness we are reflective.
If we are "running" and going too fast,
The blessings of God we may run right past.
Our God is great and worthy of praise.
We should pause often and gratitude raise.
He is our fortress and mighty in power...
Our peace and our strength in this very hour.
Moments we spend in praising His name
Will change us inside... we won't be the same.
We will have joy as we're in His presence...
As we acknowledge and show Him our reverence.
"Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised..."
Psalm 48:1 KJV
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Wednesday, December 26, 2012
A Song Of Joy
Sing a song of love and joy,
Blessed gifts men should employ.
How we need to spread good cheer
To every person... far and near.
Good will flows forth from the heart
And many blessings will impart.
Gladness offsets many frowns
And love produces lovely "crowns".
Let joy sing from deep within.
Let light-heartedness begin.
Joy brings comfort, hope and calm...
A welcome, wondrous, healing balm.
"Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice."
Philippians 4:4 KJV
"The joy of the Lord is your strength."
Nehemiah 8:10 KJV
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Blessed gifts men should employ.
How we need to spread good cheer
To every person... far and near.
Good will flows forth from the heart
And many blessings will impart.
Gladness offsets many frowns
And love produces lovely "crowns".
Let joy sing from deep within.
Let light-heartedness begin.
Joy brings comfort, hope and calm...
A welcome, wondrous, healing balm.
"Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice."
Philippians 4:4 KJV
"The joy of the Lord is your strength."
Nehemiah 8:10 KJV
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Tuesday, December 25, 2012
A Glorious Event
Silent night, hallowed night,
Eastern star, shining bright,
A newborn babe, love profound,
Angels singing, Heav'nly sound...
Joyful tidings, Heav'n's good news,
Peace on earth, good will to muse,
Shepherds pond'ring distant star,
Worshipping in fields afar...
Quietly a great event,
Love came down... Heaven-sent,
The greatest gift we'll ever know,
Cradled in a manger low.
"For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The prince of Peace."
Isaiah 9:6 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Eastern star, shining bright,
A newborn babe, love profound,
Angels singing, Heav'nly sound...
Joyful tidings, Heav'n's good news,
Peace on earth, good will to muse,
Shepherds pond'ring distant star,
Worshipping in fields afar...
Quietly a great event,
Love came down... Heaven-sent,
The greatest gift we'll ever know,
Cradled in a manger low.
"For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The prince of Peace."
Isaiah 9:6 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Monday, December 24, 2012
Room In The Inn
Baby Jesus, do not fear...
I will make for You some space.
Little child without a bed,
In my heart I'll make a place.
I invite and welcome You
Deep within my heart to stay.
I want to live my life for You
And want to bless You every day.
As You reside within my heart,
Joy and worship I will bring.
You are worthy of all praise,
You'll daily cause my heart to sing.
Nothing I can offer You
For me could greater joy impart
Than to give You residence
In the inn of my own heart.
"If anyone loves Me, he will keep My word; and My Father will love him, and We will come to him and make Our home with him."
John 14:23 NKJ
© 2004 Arlene Schwartzkopf
I will make for You some space.
Little child without a bed,
In my heart I'll make a place.
I invite and welcome You
Deep within my heart to stay.
I want to live my life for You
And want to bless You every day.
As You reside within my heart,
Joy and worship I will bring.
You are worthy of all praise,
You'll daily cause my heart to sing.
Nothing I can offer You
For me could greater joy impart
Than to give You residence
In the inn of my own heart.
"If anyone loves Me, he will keep My word; and My Father will love him, and We will come to him and make Our home with him."
John 14:23 NKJ
© 2004 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sunday, December 23, 2012
A Tiny Spark... A Mighty Flame
A baby's birth... a tiny spark... would over time become a flame.
God's great love for all mankind the light of Heaven's hope became.
Jesus had no earthly comfort but was birthed in lowly place.
Man received a miracle of lovingkindness and of grace.
Let the flame of Jesus' love be fanned within your heart anew.
Let a holy fire burst forth and brightly burn in all you do.
Let it's light and warmth become contagious by it's healing balm,
Reaching out with new-lit flames, inspiring peace and joy and calm.
May this fire's sparks ignite, unquenchable and with great power.
Let salvation's fires burn with great new fervor in this hour.
Let our hearts be tuned afresh to know the warmth of Jesus' flame,
Remembering salvation's plan - the glorious reason why He came.
"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. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved."
John 3:16-17 KJV
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
God's great love for all mankind the light of Heaven's hope became.
Jesus had no earthly comfort but was birthed in lowly place.
Man received a miracle of lovingkindness and of grace.
Let the flame of Jesus' love be fanned within your heart anew.
Let a holy fire burst forth and brightly burn in all you do.
Let it's light and warmth become contagious by it's healing balm,
Reaching out with new-lit flames, inspiring peace and joy and calm.
May this fire's sparks ignite, unquenchable and with great power.
Let salvation's fires burn with great new fervor in this hour.
Let our hearts be tuned afresh to know the warmth of Jesus' flame,
Remembering salvation's plan - the glorious reason why He came.
"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. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved."
John 3:16-17 KJV
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Saturday, December 22, 2012
Jesus Is Born
A tiny babe's cry pierced out through the night,
Forever to change the darkness to light.
It was God's loving plan for all of mankind.
This event which took place by God was hand-signed.
The life of this babe would be flawless and pure
And would bring answer men's sorrows to cure.
He would bring life and wash away sin,
That men everywhere might eternal life win.
That tiny cry pierces darkness today.
Jesus was come... your sin-debt to pay.
For those who receive Him and live in His light
He'll cut through your darkness and make your life bright.
"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. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through him might be saved."
John 3:16-17 KJV
© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Forever to change the darkness to light.
It was God's loving plan for all of mankind.
This event which took place by God was hand-signed.
The life of this babe would be flawless and pure
And would bring answer men's sorrows to cure.
He would bring life and wash away sin,
That men everywhere might eternal life win.
That tiny cry pierces darkness today.
Jesus was come... your sin-debt to pay.
For those who receive Him and live in His light
He'll cut through your darkness and make your life bright.
"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. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through him might be saved."
John 3:16-17 KJV
© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Friday, December 21, 2012
Sounds Of Christmas
Carolers singing, a joyful sound bringing,
Trumpets and choirs and pretty bells ringing...
These are the sounds of bright Christmas cheer,
Announcing good news for all men to hear!
"Peace be on earth and good will toward men."
Let this be broadcast again and again!
Jesus has come... He is the Light,
Hope for mankind... the world to ignite.
Let celebration well up in your heart
And cause daily worries to flee and depart.
Jesus is come, our joy to renew.
Let His song ring forth... in me and in you!
"And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord."
Luke 2:10-11 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Trumpets and choirs and pretty bells ringing...
These are the sounds of bright Christmas cheer,
Announcing good news for all men to hear!
"Peace be on earth and good will toward men."
Let this be broadcast again and again!
Jesus has come... He is the Light,
Hope for mankind... the world to ignite.
Let celebration well up in your heart
And cause daily worries to flee and depart.
Jesus is come, our joy to renew.
Let His song ring forth... in me and in you!
"And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord."
Luke 2:10-11 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Thursday, December 20, 2012
A Childhood Christmas
The light in the eyes of a sweet little child,
Worshipping Jesus, the sweet baby mild,
Is precious and tender and wondrous to see.
His love is so pure and his spirit so free.
Lord, let this "imprint" on him ne'er be lost.
May Your love and grace in his heart be embossed.
May the wonder and awe which he has in his heart
Always remain there... Your joy to impart.
For childhood will fade and a young man emerge.
May angels keep watch and around him converge
To guard and protect this wonder and awe.
Let him never forget the "manger" he saw.
"For He will give His angels (especial) charge over you to accompany and defend and preserve you in all your ways (of obedience and service)."
Psalm 91:11 Amplified Bible
© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Worshipping Jesus, the sweet baby mild,
Is precious and tender and wondrous to see.
His love is so pure and his spirit so free.
Lord, let this "imprint" on him ne'er be lost.
May Your love and grace in his heart be embossed.
May the wonder and awe which he has in his heart
Always remain there... Your joy to impart.
For childhood will fade and a young man emerge.
May angels keep watch and around him converge
To guard and protect this wonder and awe.
Let him never forget the "manger" he saw.
"For He will give His angels (especial) charge over you to accompany and defend and preserve you in all your ways (of obedience and service)."
Psalm 91:11 Amplified Bible
© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Wednesday, December 19, 2012
A Christmas Tree
If I could be a Christmas tree,
The decoration you might see
Would be quite different from the norm,
Colorful and brightly warm.
My branches would be filled with light,
And I would shine both day and night
To tell of Jesus' wondrous birth
And speak His love throughout the earth.
For He gives ornaments of gold...
Love and peace which don't grow old,
Joy and hope which draw folks near
And offer Heav'n's eternal cheer.
With Jesus' beauty I could be
A vital, loving Christmas tree,
With lights and garlands which decree
The love of God for all to see.
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
The decoration you might see
Would be quite different from the norm,
Colorful and brightly warm.
My branches would be filled with light,
And I would shine both day and night
To tell of Jesus' wondrous birth
And speak His love throughout the earth.
For He gives ornaments of gold...
Love and peace which don't grow old,
Joy and hope which draw folks near
And offer Heav'n's eternal cheer.
With Jesus' beauty I could be
A vital, loving Christmas tree,
With lights and garlands which decree
The love of God for all to see.
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Tuesday, December 18, 2012
Revisit The Manger
I will revisit the manger again
To retrace my steps and where I have been,
To recall God's blessings and open my heart,
Ready for God new life to impart.
Let all my worship be fragrant as myrrh,
And let His great love anew in me stir.
As I remember and take time to pause,
Again I am filled with joy and applause.
Salvation was birthed in the manger that night...
Promise of heaven, mankind to excite.
We can take joy, for God had a plan
To bring full redemption and blessing to man.
"And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord."
Luke 2:10-11 KJV
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
To retrace my steps and where I have been,
To recall God's blessings and open my heart,
Ready for God new life to impart.
Let all my worship be fragrant as myrrh,
And let His great love anew in me stir.
As I remember and take time to pause,
Again I am filled with joy and applause.
Salvation was birthed in the manger that night...
Promise of heaven, mankind to excite.
We can take joy, for God had a plan
To bring full redemption and blessing to man.
"And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord."
Luke 2:10-11 KJV
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Monday, December 17, 2012
A Song Of Christmas
Hum a lovely Christmas song.
In this season, sing along!
Christmas carols tell a story...
Reminding us to give God glory!
What a joyous time to sing
Our praises to our Lord and King!
Let your voice with worship swell...
The birth of Jesus Christ to tell.
Let choirs sing and bells ring out,
For joy is what this is about!
Lift up worship... celebrate!
Jesus' birth commemorate!
"For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The prince of Peace."
Isaiah 9:6 KJV
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
In this season, sing along!
Christmas carols tell a story...
Reminding us to give God glory!
What a joyous time to sing
Our praises to our Lord and King!
Let your voice with worship swell...
The birth of Jesus Christ to tell.
Let choirs sing and bells ring out,
For joy is what this is about!
Lift up worship... celebrate!
Jesus' birth commemorate!
"For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The prince of Peace."
Isaiah 9:6 KJV
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sunday, December 16, 2012
Let The Children Sing
At Christmas let the children sing.
Let their little voices ring!
Let their hearts well up with joy,
Every girl and every boy.
As they sing of Jesus' birth
And are filled with glee and mirth,
Listen to their gentle sound.
Love and sweetness there abound.
Children have a special way
In how they sing and what they say.
They will bring a simple view
Which oft refreshes me and you.
When the little childtren sing,
Special blessings they will bring.
Listen to their voices sweet
As the Savior's birth they greet.
"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
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Let their little voices ring!
Let their hearts well up with joy,
Every girl and every boy.
As they sing of Jesus' birth
And are filled with glee and mirth,
Listen to their gentle sound.
Love and sweetness there abound.
Children have a special way
In how they sing and what they say.
They will bring a simple view
Which oft refreshes me and you.
When the little childtren sing,
Special blessings they will bring.
Listen to their voices sweet
As the Savior's birth they greet.
"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
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Saturday, December 15, 2012
Keep Christmas Simple
Christmas is all about God's precious Son...
God's love poured out to every one.
Let celebration rise up in your soul.
With adoration our great God extol.
Church bells and choirs will ring out His praise.
Folks 'round the world bright worship will raise.
Don't get bogged down in presents and trees,
Wrapping, decor and activities.
Keep Christmas simple and take time to pause
And deep in the heart to bring your applause.
Let it's bright message again make you new,
And let God's great love be re-birthed in you.
"I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly."
John 10:10 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
God's love poured out to every one.
Let celebration rise up in your soul.
With adoration our great God extol.
Church bells and choirs will ring out His praise.
Folks 'round the world bright worship will raise.
Don't get bogged down in presents and trees,
Wrapping, decor and activities.
Keep Christmas simple and take time to pause
And deep in the heart to bring your applause.
Let it's bright message again make you new,
And let God's great love be re-birthed in you.
"I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly."
John 10:10 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Friday, December 14, 2012
Mirrors Of Christmas
If this Christmas season were seen in a mirror,
What would be found there in it's clear reflection?
Would there be singing, or sharing and love...
Would anything there point in Jesus' direction?
Would there be scenes of sweet celebration,
Honoring Jesus... remembering His birth?
Who there would practice "good will to all men"
And live in a way to bring peace on the earth?
Christmas has meaning anew every year
As His love is birthed afresh in each heart.
And when this happens, new joy will come forth...
His love and His peace and warmth to impart.
The scenes in the mirror will be lovely indeed,
Recording the love of the Christmas season,
For all that has meaning and really has worth
Is found in our Lord... HE is the reason!
Without Jesus Christ the mirrors will be empty
And will not record a scene or reflection.
The scenes will be lost, for they don't have true meaning,
And will not be worthy of sweet recollection.
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
What would be found there in it's clear reflection?
Would there be singing, or sharing and love...
Would anything there point in Jesus' direction?
Would there be scenes of sweet celebration,
Honoring Jesus... remembering His birth?
Who there would practice "good will to all men"
And live in a way to bring peace on the earth?
Christmas has meaning anew every year
As His love is birthed afresh in each heart.
And when this happens, new joy will come forth...
His love and His peace and warmth to impart.
The scenes in the mirror will be lovely indeed,
Recording the love of the Christmas season,
For all that has meaning and really has worth
Is found in our Lord... HE is the reason!
Without Jesus Christ the mirrors will be empty
And will not record a scene or reflection.
The scenes will be lost, for they don't have true meaning,
And will not be worthy of sweet recollection.
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Thursday, December 13, 2012
Good Tidings Of Great Joy
Bethlehem was quiet on the night when Jesus came.
Little did man know... that He would set the world aflame.
He would bring salvation to redeem man from all sin,
And yet there was not room for him in the local inn.
Today He lives and dwells within the hearts and lives of men.
May we all remember Jesus' coming once again.
Let our celebration be to honor He Who came.
And let His love within us be an ever-burning flame.
"For the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord."
Luke 2:10-11 KJV
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Little did man know... that He would set the world aflame.
He would bring salvation to redeem man from all sin,
And yet there was not room for him in the local inn.
Today He lives and dwells within the hearts and lives of men.
May we all remember Jesus' coming once again.
Let our celebration be to honor He Who came.
And let His love within us be an ever-burning flame.
"For the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord."
Luke 2:10-11 KJV
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Wednesday, December 12, 2012
Tell The Little Children
Tell the little children of that night so long ago
When Christ was born in Bethlehem in a manger low.
Share with them that Christmas is a time to celebrate
The love of God for each of them... for them to contemplate.
"Christmas" has no purpose, apart from Jesus' birth.
It takes on worldly emptiness and doesn't have much worth.
Jesus is the center, and He gives us glorious reason
To share His love with others in this bright and joyous season.
"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
When Christ was born in Bethlehem in a manger low.
Share with them that Christmas is a time to celebrate
The love of God for each of them... for them to contemplate.
"Christmas" has no purpose, apart from Jesus' birth.
It takes on worldly emptiness and doesn't have much worth.
Jesus is the center, and He gives us glorious reason
To share His love with others in this bright and joyous season.
"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
Tuesday, December 11, 2012
A Joyous Season
Christmas is a joyous season.
To praise the Lord we have good reason.
Worship Him, and offer praise!
With grateful heart an anthem raise!
For worship, like a symphony,
Is how our lives are meant to be!
Bring sweet melody and song.
Lift your voice and sing along!
Let glorious harmony and sound
Within your heart rise up, abound!
Let exaltation be on high,
His wondrous name to glorify!
"I will extol thee, my God, O king; and I will bless thy name for ever and ever. Every day will I bless thee; and I will praise thy name for ever and ever."
Psalm 145:1-2 KJV
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
To praise the Lord we have good reason.
Worship Him, and offer praise!
With grateful heart an anthem raise!
For worship, like a symphony,
Is how our lives are meant to be!
Bring sweet melody and song.
Lift your voice and sing along!
Let glorious harmony and sound
Within your heart rise up, abound!
Let exaltation be on high,
His wondrous name to glorify!
"I will extol thee, my God, O king; and I will bless thy name for ever and ever. Every day will I bless thee; and I will praise thy name for ever and ever."
Psalm 145:1-2 KJV
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Monday, December 10, 2012
A Little Girl's Christmas Tree
In years past my mother, who was already in her eighties, babysat a little three-year-old girl.
As Christmas drew near I thought it would be fun to bring this child her own little Christmas tree to decorate. I gathered up a bunch of unbreakable ornaments I had, then went in search of a tree. I found a little three-foot-tall tree at a lot near my house.
I didn't know how well a three-year-old could decorate a tree, but thought she could at least try. And she totally surprised us! She carefully placed the ornaments, one-by-one, walking around the tree with each one to make sure there were no bare places on the tree. She did a remarkable job for her age. It looked really pretty.
This whole scene was priceless to watch. When she was through she sat down (on a large, wrapped package) to admire her work. Her face glowed and her eyes were filled with delight. As she was sitting there, someone came and knocked at the front door. She jumped up to go see who was there, tripped on a throw rug, and went flying right into the middle of her tree, knocking the tree over. The ornaments went flying in every direction. She was devastated! She cried and she wailed. It was like her whole magical world had fallen apart.
It took a little time to comfort her, but then I encouraged her to pick the tree up and put all the ornaments on again. (It's a good thing they were unbreakable). So she started over and once again decorated her little tree. After I left I'm sure she adjusted and re-adjusted the placement of the ornaments. She was very precise about the way it looked. It was her very own little tree!!!
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
As Christmas drew near I thought it would be fun to bring this child her own little Christmas tree to decorate. I gathered up a bunch of unbreakable ornaments I had, then went in search of a tree. I found a little three-foot-tall tree at a lot near my house.
I didn't know how well a three-year-old could decorate a tree, but thought she could at least try. And she totally surprised us! She carefully placed the ornaments, one-by-one, walking around the tree with each one to make sure there were no bare places on the tree. She did a remarkable job for her age. It looked really pretty.
This whole scene was priceless to watch. When she was through she sat down (on a large, wrapped package) to admire her work. Her face glowed and her eyes were filled with delight. As she was sitting there, someone came and knocked at the front door. She jumped up to go see who was there, tripped on a throw rug, and went flying right into the middle of her tree, knocking the tree over. The ornaments went flying in every direction. She was devastated! She cried and she wailed. It was like her whole magical world had fallen apart.
It took a little time to comfort her, but then I encouraged her to pick the tree up and put all the ornaments on again. (It's a good thing they were unbreakable). So she started over and once again decorated her little tree. After I left I'm sure she adjusted and re-adjusted the placement of the ornaments. She was very precise about the way it looked. It was her very own little tree!!!
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sunday, December 09, 2012
Christmas Is Coming!
Christmas is coming! Christmas is coming!
It's time to remember our great Savior's birth...
A time of rejoicing, a time to bring praise
And celebrate Jesus throughout all the earth!
Let choirs make song and many bells ring!
Let music rise up in jubilant sound!
Let our Savior's birth be greeted with joy!
Let banners be drawn and worship abound!
Let the Good News be spread far and wide.
Magnify Jesus throughout all the earth!
Let all that we do in this wonderful season
Bring glory and honor and tell of His worth!
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
It's time to remember our great Savior's birth...
A time of rejoicing, a time to bring praise
And celebrate Jesus throughout all the earth!
Let choirs make song and many bells ring!
Let music rise up in jubilant sound!
Let our Savior's birth be greeted with joy!
Let banners be drawn and worship abound!
Let the Good News be spread far and wide.
Magnify Jesus throughout all the earth!
Let all that we do in this wonderful season
Bring glory and honor and tell of His worth!
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Saturday, December 08, 2012
Prayer Breaks Through
In years past I was part of a bible study group that met once a week for worship, bible study and prayer. The home where we met was on a corner in a lovely neighborhood.
The Lord spoke to my heart that I should walk around the four blocks adjoining that corner and pray and that this would bring change in our bible study time. A few days before our study I walked and prayed, as did a few others in the weeks to follow. As I walked, God showed me the needs in some of the homes there. One in particular I remember... He said there was a lot of fighting going on there.
As this process went on for a few weeks we began to see a beakthrough in the meeting times. The power of God during our prayer times was profound, and healings and breakthroughs began to take place in the women's lives.
The time spent in "prayer walks" was like the tilling of ground... needed preparation for planting and harvest. We saw results in our study group, but surely many people in the neighborhood were also blessed as the atmosphere changed in that four-block area.
If we want to see change, we must "till the ground' with prayer first... and God will hear these prayers.
"Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you."
I Thessalonians 5:16-18 KJV
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
The Lord spoke to my heart that I should walk around the four blocks adjoining that corner and pray and that this would bring change in our bible study time. A few days before our study I walked and prayed, as did a few others in the weeks to follow. As I walked, God showed me the needs in some of the homes there. One in particular I remember... He said there was a lot of fighting going on there.
As this process went on for a few weeks we began to see a beakthrough in the meeting times. The power of God during our prayer times was profound, and healings and breakthroughs began to take place in the women's lives.
The time spent in "prayer walks" was like the tilling of ground... needed preparation for planting and harvest. We saw results in our study group, but surely many people in the neighborhood were also blessed as the atmosphere changed in that four-block area.
If we want to see change, we must "till the ground' with prayer first... and God will hear these prayers.
"Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you."
I Thessalonians 5:16-18 KJV
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Friday, December 07, 2012
Listen And Remember
Many times the Lord will "speak"
But then our memories are weak.
If we don't keep careful focus
The enemy plays "hocus-pocus".
If our minds are just too full,
Or busyness exerts it's "pull",
He will rob that precious seed
Which God has shared and which we need.
Do not let His words be lost,
For this is much too high a cost.
God will be our faithful guide.
Draw near to Him... in Him abide.
"Now the parable is this: the seed is the word of God. Those by the way side are they that hear; then cometh the devil, and taketh away the word out of their hearts, lest they should believe and be saved. They on the rock are they, which when they hear, receive the word with joy; and these have no root, which for a while believe, and in time of temptation fall away. And that which fell among thorns are they, which, when they have heard, go forth, and are choked with cares and riches and pleasures of this life, and bring no fruit to perfection. But that on the good ground are they, which in an honest and good heart, having heard the word, keep it, and bring forth fruit with patience."
Luke 8:11-15 KJV
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
But then our memories are weak.
If we don't keep careful focus
The enemy plays "hocus-pocus".
If our minds are just too full,
Or busyness exerts it's "pull",
He will rob that precious seed
Which God has shared and which we need.
Do not let His words be lost,
For this is much too high a cost.
God will be our faithful guide.
Draw near to Him... in Him abide.
"Now the parable is this: the seed is the word of God. Those by the way side are they that hear; then cometh the devil, and taketh away the word out of their hearts, lest they should believe and be saved. They on the rock are they, which when they hear, receive the word with joy; and these have no root, which for a while believe, and in time of temptation fall away. And that which fell among thorns are they, which, when they have heard, go forth, and are choked with cares and riches and pleasures of this life, and bring no fruit to perfection. But that on the good ground are they, which in an honest and good heart, having heard the word, keep it, and bring forth fruit with patience."
Luke 8:11-15 KJV
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Thursday, December 06, 2012
Shining Bright
If you know Jesus, you have light.
His indwelling makes you bright.
He will cause your light to shine
And all your purpose will define.
You can maybe light a spark
In places where it's dim or dark,
Bringing joy or love or peace,
Causing darkness to decrease.
You can warm a heart that's cold
Or bring some cheer to one who's old.
Be a lighthouse, shining bright,
For many need a little light.
"Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven."
Matthew 5:14-16 KJV
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
His indwelling makes you bright.
He will cause your light to shine
And all your purpose will define.
You can maybe light a spark
In places where it's dim or dark,
Bringing joy or love or peace,
Causing darkness to decrease.
You can warm a heart that's cold
Or bring some cheer to one who's old.
Be a lighthouse, shining bright,
For many need a little light.
"Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven."
Matthew 5:14-16 KJV
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Wednesday, December 05, 2012
Looking Up In Times Of Change
Sometimes life will take a "turn",
And these are times in which we learn.
If you've gone through "wear and tear",
Move on! You should not linger there.
Ask the Lord for new perspective.
He will give you good directive.
Don't let changes bog you down.
Determine that you will not frown.
Look up, and let God spur you on.
Look forward to a bright new dawn.
For He transforms our "sad" to "glad".
His strength and joy to you He'll add.
"Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths."
Proverbs 3:5-6 KJV
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
And these are times in which we learn.
If you've gone through "wear and tear",
Move on! You should not linger there.
Ask the Lord for new perspective.
He will give you good directive.
Don't let changes bog you down.
Determine that you will not frown.
Look up, and let God spur you on.
Look forward to a bright new dawn.
For He transforms our "sad" to "glad".
His strength and joy to you He'll add.
"Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths."
Proverbs 3:5-6 KJV
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Tuesday, December 04, 2012
Every Day Is Good
Every day there's something good
To praise the Lord and shout about!
Lift up worship, songs and praise
And drive out every shred of doubt!
Think about God's lovingkindness,
His forgiveness and His grace.
His compassion and His love
Will bring a smile upon your face.
All good gifts are from His hand.
Praise His name and shout for joy!
Don't let problems get you down.
Let His goodness be your buoy!
"Blessed be the Lord, who daily loadeth us with benefits, even the God of our salvation."
Psalm 68:19 KJV
"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
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
To praise the Lord and shout about!
Lift up worship, songs and praise
And drive out every shred of doubt!
Think about God's lovingkindness,
His forgiveness and His grace.
His compassion and His love
Will bring a smile upon your face.
All good gifts are from His hand.
Praise His name and shout for joy!
Don't let problems get you down.
Let His goodness be your buoy!
"Blessed be the Lord, who daily loadeth us with benefits, even the God of our salvation."
Psalm 68:19 KJV
"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
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Monday, December 03, 2012
The Real Christmas
Christmas is a holy time
To celebrate our Savior's birth...
A time to worship and remember
God's own gift of greatest worth.
But man would try to change it all,
Diminishing the Christmas season,
Leaving us a "holiday"
Without its God-intended reason.
Then what is left to celebrate...
The endless gifts? Or what we ate?
The Christmas trees we decorate?
Or too much cost which we create?
Let us pause and contemplate
The blessing of God's greatest gift.
Let us worship from our hearts...
Much praise and adoration lift!
"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
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
To celebrate our Savior's birth...
A time to worship and remember
God's own gift of greatest worth.
But man would try to change it all,
Diminishing the Christmas season,
Leaving us a "holiday"
Without its God-intended reason.
Then what is left to celebrate...
The endless gifts? Or what we ate?
The Christmas trees we decorate?
Or too much cost which we create?
Let us pause and contemplate
The blessing of God's greatest gift.
Let us worship from our hearts...
Much praise and adoration lift!
"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
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sunday, December 02, 2012
Prayer Across The Miles
Prayer knows no boundaries.
It travels out across the distance,
Reaching near or reaching far
And offering much-blessed assistance.
Prayer does what we can't do
And trusts in God to intervene.
He will cover all details
And even some which are not seen.
No matter where the need may be,
We can intercede and pray.
Our prayers will bring the needed help,
E'en though the need be far away.
"The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much."
James 5:16 KJV
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
It travels out across the distance,
Reaching near or reaching far
And offering much-blessed assistance.
Prayer does what we can't do
And trusts in God to intervene.
He will cover all details
And even some which are not seen.
No matter where the need may be,
We can intercede and pray.
Our prayers will bring the needed help,
E'en though the need be far away.
"The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much."
James 5:16 KJV
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Saturday, December 01, 2012
The Best Christmas
The Christmas "frenzy" in our land
Has sadly gotten out of hand.
People scurry to and fro...
From store to store to store they go.
Often they will spend too much,
Using credit cards and such,
Creating bills and needless stress
When they could simply do with less.
The greatest gift which we could share
Is to love and show we care.
Find a lonely soul or two
And something special for them do.
God so loved us that He gave
His only Son, lost souls to save.
His example was to give.
This then is how we should live.
"Remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive."
Acts 20:35 KJV
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Has sadly gotten out of hand.
People scurry to and fro...
From store to store to store they go.
Often they will spend too much,
Using credit cards and such,
Creating bills and needless stress
When they could simply do with less.
The greatest gift which we could share
Is to love and show we care.
Find a lonely soul or two
And something special for them do.
God so loved us that He gave
His only Son, lost souls to save.
His example was to give.
This then is how we should live.
"Remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive."
Acts 20:35 KJV
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
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