Simplicity And Common Sense

Some will study many years
To become what they call “smart”.
But the many books they study
Common sense will not impart.

Learning wisdom throughout life
Is a different kind of school.
Wisdom is as oil in gears...
A very necessary tool.

Watching, listening, hearing facts,
Gaining expertise and skill,
Show us that good common sense
Will keep our problems down to “nil”.

“If any of you is deficient in wisdom, let him ask of “the giving God (Who gives) to every one liberally and ungrudgingly, without reproaching or faultfinding, and it will be given him.”
James 1:5 Amplified Bible

© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Healing And Hope

Let your spirit be at peace
From grief and burdens find release.
If you’ve suffered any loss,
Leave your burden at the cross.

Healing flows and tears are dried,
And weariness is laid aside.
Hope and sweet tranquillity
Will bring you rest and set you free.

Find refreshing... be made new.
Know the Lord will “bring you through”.
He gave His life upon the cross.
Jesus heals our pain and loss.

“Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted. But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him: and with his stripes we are healed.”
Isaiah 53:4-5 KJV

© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Two In Agreement

Sometimes we need to lay down our “rights”,
For often these “rights” dissension ignites.
We may complain, “it just is not fair.
I’m misunderstood and I did not err.”

“Claiming our rights” can have a sharp edge,
Building a fence or driving a wedge.
The more vital issue is living in peace,
Working together and letting strife cease.

“Rights” build a “block” in us toward another.
Just lay them down and work with that brother.
Two in agreement will get a lot done.
Don’t think of “self”... agree to have fun!

“And be at peace among yourselves...”
I Thessalonians 5:13 KJV

© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Beautiful Portrait

A beautiful countenance is formed over time,
Is tempered by kindness and love’s paradigm.
When God’s love resides deep down in the heart,
Then that which is etched in the face is His “art”.

Kindness and love will soften a smile,
While anger and angst it’s beauty defile.
If we let God soften our heart by His grace,
His radiance reflects in the eyes and the face.

Our beauty increases and glows as we age.
As we in His wisdom and kindness engage,
God creates beauty which truly is rare.
His love in us is a beauty we wear.

“And let the beauty of the Lord our God be upon us...”
Psalm 90:17 KJV

© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Do It Right

Have you ever had a job
Which you just knew would be “a task”,
And wish that someone else would do it
But you knew you shouldn’t ask?

“Do it right” is hard to face
When “do it right” suggests hard work.
But you will have to do it over
If some details you would shirk.

To simplify or “make quick work”
Would shortchange or just be “half way”.
The finished work would have its flaws
Which may show up another day.

If your work is quite a challenge,
Take a deep breath and “plunge in”.
For when you choose to do it right
You’ll finish well and you will win!

“And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not to men...”
Colossians 3:23 KJV

© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Heart Full Of Peace

A gentle heart is full of calm,
Joy and peace and healing balm.
But when anxiety comes in
The heart experiences “chagrin”.

The answer is to “practice peace”.
This will take some expertise.
No matter what the circumstance,
Pray, and do not take a chance.

Let your peace push back the stress.
Don’t allow it to oppress.
God will give you inner rest,
And by His peace you will be blessed.

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

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

© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Gathering Wisdom

Listen to counsel, store it within.
Gather good wisdom - a shield against sin.
For wisdom and knowledge will be as a hedge
To help you to be on the “cutting edge”.

Those who don’t learn have little to say,
And when they are old they’ll be quite blasé.
But learning will be as a spark and a fire,
Igniting new interest which then will inspire.

Listen to counsel, become as a light,
Expanding your wisdom to know what is right.
And when you grow older, you too then can share
The “nuggets” you’ve gathered to others who care.

“Hear counsel, and receive instruction, that thou mayest be wise in thy latter end.”
Proverbs 19:20 KJV

© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Autumn's Artistry

When Autumn enters into view
Her artistry brings brilliant flair.
Orange and bronze and gold and red
Adorn our landscapes everywhere.

Her kaleidoscope of hues
Creates a montage laced with beauty.
Truly does she seem to revel
In her annual, autumn duty.

Hearts are warmed by her bright cheer.
She brings a cordiality.
We’ll remember all her charm.
We’ll miss her personality!

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

© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Longing To Hear Church Bells

How I long to hear church bells
Ringing out across the land,
Reminding us of holiness
And that for which we stand.

Our beginnings, birthed in prayer,
We simply can’t forget.
We must change the path we’re on,
Lest we have deep regret.

Let us honor our foundation.
Let us bow to thank our God,
Take a look at whence we’ve come
And prayerful footsteps we have trod.

Let those footsteps not be wasted.
Let our past not be discarded.
Let our focus be renewed
And Godly format be regarded.

“Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord; and the people whom he hath chosen for his own inheritance.”
Psalm 33:12 KJV

© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Potential

Many things we do in life just may not be essential.
A better goal is seeking out what is our full potential.
We may think that we’re okay and not seek to move higher,
Then miss that which God has for us that really would inspire.

In seeking Him we can discover what we’re meant to do and be.
He will lead us to that door which offers possibility.
When we’re feeling satisfied, time slips by and is a waste.
If we do not move ahead, that time can never be replaced.

“Resting on our laurels”, it’s too easy just to fall behind.
We should never rest too long, but to “progress” be inclined.
Reaching for a higher place may open up another door.
And we will find exciting things which God for us may have in store.

“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

© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Compassion And Caring

Compassion shown from the heart
May give someone a brand-new start.
A word you speak to show you care
May help someone their “weights” to bear.

Later on, in times to come,
The word you spoke may be the “crumb”
Which helps that person to keep going...
In memory, new hope bestowing.

Compassion and approval birth
An inner confidence and worth.
When we show we truly care,
Our loving words are like fresh air.

“Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.”
Philippians 2:4 KJV

© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Joyful Worship

Worship has a lovely voice
And causes Heaven to rejoice.
God is worthy of our praise...
Every song and every phrase.

Glorify His name on high.
With gratitude to Him draw nigh.
Come into His holy presence.
Honor Him with heartfelt reverence.

Oh, what joy in Heaven awaits
When we come near those pearly gates.
Our hearts will swell, our voices soar
To worship Him forevermore.

“I will bless the Lord at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth. My soul shall make her boast in the Lord: the humble shall hear thereof, and be glad. O magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt his name together.”
Psalm 34:1-3 KJV

© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The LORD'S Touch

How much we are missing if we don’t slow down!
When going too fast, God’s goodness is “blurred”.
We don’t see or think of the blessings around us...
The beauty unseen, His promptings unheard.

When we take the time to pause and reflect,
He opens our eyes and speaks to our heart.
We are enriched as we give Him place,
Spending moments with Him... from the “rush” set apart.

Without those sweet moments, we soon become dull.
For “hurry” and “rush” will push us too much.
But when we are “tuned” to see the Lord’s beauty,
We’ll see and we’ll hear and know the Lord’s touch.

“O taste and see that the Lord is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in him.”
Psalm 34:8 KJV

© 2013 Arlene Schwrtzkopf

The Joy Of Giving

Giving to those in need is a wonderful expression of love and caring...

In years past my mother had a neighbor family that was poor and struggling because the husband was off work on disability. One evening the wife knocked on Mom’s door, asking if Mom might have an extra dishpan she could use. This lady said she was having trouble washing her dishes without a dishpan.

Mom didn’t have an extra dishpan, but she would not send her neighbor away without helping her. She brought out a very large kettle which she used for canning purposes (a favorite kettle), and she offered it to the neighbor to use as a dishpan. The neighbor was very moved and grateful for Mom’s kindness.

Always Mom would help where there was a need. She was not rich but was a very bright light throughout her life to those who knew her.

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

© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Times Of Healing

Brokenness is not all bad,
For when we reach the “healed” side
We’ll look back and we’ll realize
We’re safe when we in Christ abide.

He is able to bring joy,
Give us hope and chase our fear.
In these times He nurtures us,
Lifts us up and brings us cheer.

As we move past brokenness
And out of “darkness” into light,
We will move past weariness
Into new days which are bright.

“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 KJV

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

© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Forming Good Habits

To change a bad habit we must have resolve.
Through diligent efforts good change will evolve.
The art of “fine-tuning” is hard but worthwhile,
But change for the better should bring a big smile.

Good habits and patterns will introduce ease
And help us to have improved expertise.
We always can learn and try to improve.
To change our bad habits is a really good move!

“The thoughts of the diligent tend only to plenteousness; but of every one that is hasty only to want.”
Proverbs 21:5 KJV

© 2013 Arlene Shwartzkopf

God With Us

I am rejoicing in the goodness of God...

Every day I pray for safety in travel for my son, who is a line haul driver and drives 18-wheel trucks. In my “limited thinking” I prayed for safety in traffic, which is always a concern, but God answered bigger than the way I prayed.

A couple days ago my son was driving through an intense rain storm when lightning touched the ground about twenty feet from his truck. He said it made an extremely loud, crackling, metallic-type sound, and it sounded like his whole truck was being ripped apart. It was still dark out (early morning hours), and he said the light of it was so bright that he had no peripheral vision on his left side for about half an hour afterwards, But through all this he was safe, and his truck showed no damage. What an experience!

Truly God was with him in the midst of the storm.

“They shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.”
Matthew 1:23 KJV

© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf

God's Perfect Timing

As we serve, God fills our cup,
And in His time we are raised up.
But we must start at the beginning.
Shortcuts do not lead to “winning”.

Serving in the little ways
Is a most important phase.
Learning here to be content
Is preparation time well-spent.

If we’re patient step-by-step
The Lord will give us needed “prep”.
We’ll grow in wisdom and in grace
As we are in His perfect pace.

“He hath made every thing beautiful in his time.”
Ecclesiastes 3:11 KJV

© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Word Brings Light

Let the Holy Word of God
Get down into your roots,
For this will bring the promise
Of your bearing many fruits.

The Word will penetrate your life
And change the very way you “grow”.
Your thinking will have substance
As the Word enriches all you know.

The Word of God will light your way
Whenever circumstance seems dark,
And give you precious revelation
So you never miss your mark.

“Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.”
Psalm 119:105 KJV

© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Slow To Speak

Words we speak can really hurt,
So careless words we should not “blurt”.
Let love and kindness be the rule,
For joy and friendship this will fuel.

Sometimes words will touch a nerve
And cause some hurt you don’t deserve.
Don’t react, but remain calm.
Respond with words of healing balm.

Speaking quickly leads to snares
Which then can add unneeded cares.
Thoughtful words will heal and bless,
Love and kindness will express.

“Let every man be quick to hear, (a ready listener), slow to speak, slow to take offense and to get angry.”
James 1:19 Amplified Bible

“Love never fails...”
I Corinthians 13:8 Amplified Bible

© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Receiving God's Best

Are we keeping ourselves from God’s very best?
The more that we seek Him, the more we are blessed.
When we get caught up in mundane distractions
We may be cheating ourselves by our actions.

We may not think that we’re being cheated,
But if we’ve “slept” or simply retreated
We may not realize there is a cost...
Time and well-being perhaps may be lost.

When God thinks of us, He only thinks good.
When we are focused we’ll “move” as we should,
Learning from Him, receiving His best.
And as we seek Him we truly are blessed.

“I, the Lord, will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with My eye upon you.”
Psalm 32:8 Amplified Bible

© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Keep Sin Out

Sin will find a “slippery” angle
To come in and make a tangle
Any sin, however small,
Will try to spread and cover all.

Sin will offer us “the best”
But is a nuisance and a pest.
A tiny sin is way too much,
Eventually your life will clutch.

When we listen to God’s voice
He will help us make wise choice,
Discerning sin’s dark lies and snares,
Avoiding all its tricks and wares.

“The thief comes only in order that he may steal and may kill and may destroy. I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance - to the full, till it overflows.”
John 10:10 Amplified Bible

© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf

An Answer To Prayer

God is so faithful to watch over our children...

My grandson has attended private school from kindergarten through seventh grade. But this last summer his parents realized that the cost was getting too high, and they knew that the cost of private high school was going to be beyond their reach. So the decision was made that he should transition to public school beginning with eighth grade.

We were concerned for him because he is short for his age and because he didn’t know anyone there. I began to pray that he would be safe there, that he would find good friends and that he would like his teachers and classes.

Two days after I started to pray he went to a park near his home to play frisbee golf (at which he is quite skilled). There were three women there trying to play frisbee golf, and he noticed they weren’t doing very well with it, so he offered to help them.

One of the women asked him where he went to school. He told them he had gone to private school but that this year he would be going to public school in his neighborhood (naming the school)... to which one of the women replied, “Oh, we are teachers there.” So my grandson knew three people from that school before he even walked through the door on the first day..

Only God could have created this situation. He paved the way for my grandson to begin to be comfortable in a setting that was entirely new to him. And I know God is watching over him in every way. He seems to be quite happy there! What an awesome answer to prayer!

“How excellent is thy lovingkindness, O God! Therefore the children of men put their trust under the shadow of thy wings.”
Psalm 36:7 KJV

© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Jesus Changes Lives

He makes good folks out of bad
And downhearted people glad.
He will fill an empty soul
With His love and make him whole.

He will heal a wounded child
Whose aching heart has never smiled,
Or give courage to the fearful
And sweet laughter to the tearful.

His compassion is a gift
To those who dearly need a lift.
His faithfulness is truly great...
His goodness we should celebrate!

“Because thy lovingkindness is better than life, my lips shall praise thee. Thus will I bless thee while I live: I will lift up my hands in thy name. My soul shall be satisfied as with marrow and fatness; and my mouth shall praise thee with joyful lips.”
Psalm 63:3-5 KJV

© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Becoming A Winner

Do you have tenacity
To not give up but hang on tight?
Do you have the inner strength
To “win the race” or “fight the fight?”

Lean on God in trust, and pray
In all the challenges you face.
When you “practice” faith in Him
He’ll strengthen you and doubt erase.

By yourself you may just quit,
But with His help you’ll start to win.
Step by step you’ll gain in strength.
To win your race, with prayer begin.

“He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth strength.”
Isaiah 40:29 KJV

© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Discerning Our Thoughts

The Holy Spirit helps us filter
Thoughts which get us out of kilter.
Subtlety and innuendo
Sometimes enter in with info.

Discernment draws for us a line
By which wrong thoughts we can define.
Sometimes “humor” makes us laugh
But has less wholesomeness than chaff.

Sometimes we don’t realize
How wickedness will wear disguise.
We need the Spirit every day
Our purity of thoughts to weigh.

“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

© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Changing Season

Through the years I have enjoyed many activities... sewing, stitchery, decorating, gardening, etc. Each one was a blessing and useful at the time. These activities were wonderful in the former season. But now the Lord is saying to me that some of these things must fall away from me, that unless they do I cannot fit into the “house” He has for me. And they don’t matter as much now. To continue to do all these things would be like carrying extra baggage around.

I do not know what is before me. I cannot see yet... or know. But I feel relief in knowing that my lack of interest in the former things is part of preparation for a new season.

He told me He was preparing me to walk on a higher ledge. (This reminds me of the Scripture which talks about hinds’ feet in high places” - Psalm 18:33), and that I can’t carry a wide load on a narrow ledge. (God has a good sense of humor.)

Some days, when all of my favorite things began to fall away from me, I felt discouraged and wondered what was happening to me. At times I did not feel good about it. But now, as I look at what is happening I can see that God’s hand is in this. And I am encouraged. He is faithful and He knows my needs. And He also knows what I don’t need anymore! Hallelujah!

“He makes my feet like hinds’ feet (able to stand firmly or make progress on the dangerous heights of testing and trouble); He sets me securely upon my high places.”
Psalm 18:33 Amplified Bible

© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Living In Harmony

Living in harmony, one with another,
Co-workers, friends, neighbors and brother...
A goal to be reached for, a very bright note,
A worthwhile quality we should promote.

Harmony has a warmth and an ease.
Tensions it will overcome and appease,
Soothing and calming whatever may rise.
It will not be jarred by “noise” or “surprise”.

Harmony is a choice that we make
And works when our attitude has give-and-take.
It speaks of humility, patience and peace.
From ego and pride it brings sweet release.

“Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!”
Psalm 133:1 KJV

© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Call To Prayer

Let freedom’s bells ring loud and clear.
Let fear and bondage not come near.
Save us, Lord, from man’s control,
Lest it bind and take a toll.

Let our prayers be heard on high
As many to the Lord draw nigh.
Let us cry out for His power
To save us in this desperate hour.

God is greater than our woes
And strong to overcome our foes.
Let prayer armies raise their voice.
When God’s hand moves, we can rejoice!

“Greater is he that is in you than he that is in the world.”
I John 4:4 KJV

“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

© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Strength Through Prayer

Prayer heals frazzled nerves,
And peace of mind it oft preserves.
No matter just how great our stress,
Prayer gives us calm finesse.

We shouldn’t wait till troubles come
And leave us feeling somewhat numb.
God will guard each step we make
As we in times of prayer partake.

Prayer gives us strength to face
Great challenges with quiet grace.
God brings balance to our day
If we faithfully will pray.

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

©2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Enjoy Each Day

Too much thinking on the past
Can ruin today and spoil tomorrow.
Fretting ‘bout what’s coming next
Is trouble which we shouldn’t borrow.

Each day’s labors are enough.
Take enjoyment from each day.
“Regret” or “worry” wear us down.
Don’t let these two come your way.

Each day is a lovely gift.
Guard it from dismay and stress.
Let God’s goodness fill your day.
To Him your gratefulness express.

“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

© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Always Seek Truth

Always seek truth until it is found.
In truth will God’s blessings always abound.
Truth is the measure by which we must live.
Society’s standards have “holes” like a sieve.

Truth is our shield wherein we have cover.
Truth is as light, which we will discover.
All else is flimsy and offers no strength,
However you measure it... breadth , depth or length.

Truth is a standard which always bears light,
Offering peace and hope which is bright.
Let its light shine as hope for mankind,
To lead and to guide us so we are not blind.

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

© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf

My Hummingbird Friend

This little bird, so quick in his flight,
Brightens my day... is a precious delight.
He “visits” my flowers, pausing mid-air,
And savors the nectar which he enjoys there.

He doesn’t linger, but quickly moves on,
Visiting flowers hither and yon.
But in that moment when he darts by,
I feel like my heart to God has drawn nigh.

This little bird is one of God’s treasures
To cheer us and bring sweet memories and pleasures.
Though he be small, he brings a big smile.
I always wish that he’d linger awhile.

“And God created...every winged fowl after his kind: and God saw that it was good.”
Genesis 1:21 KJV

© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf

"Come To Me"

If you’re bowed down and feel ashamed,
Your righteousness can be reclaimed.
The Lord says, “I’ll redeem your loss.
I died for you upon the cross.”

“Come to Me with all your pain.
I’ll give you joy you can’t contain.
I’ll forgive your sin and error.
I will be your burden-bearer.”

“I will turn your life around.
In Me your blessings will abound.
Come to me, and be refreshed.
Come to Me, I’ll give you rest.”

“Come now, and let us reason together, says the Lord; though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.”
Isaiah 2:18 Amplified Bible

© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Seat Belts

When life is moving much too fast
Will your “anchor” hold and last?
Do you have your seat belt on,
Or do you just sit back and yawn?

If our seat belt is in place.
When jarred we don’t fly out through space.
But surely “impact” will be felt,
Should we fail to wear our belt.

We really need to contemplate
How we can safely navigate.
When we’re anchored in the Lord
Safety is our sure reward.

“Therefore put on God’s complete armor, that you may be able to resist and stand your ground on the evil day (of danger), and having done all (the crisis demands), to stand (firmly in your place). Stand therefore - hold your ground - having tightened the belt of truth around your loins, and having put on the breastplate of integrity and of moral rectitude and right standing with God.”
Ephesians 6:13-14 Amplified Bible

© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Soaring In The Spirit

In my spirit I can fly
And mount up with my wings on high.
I will never be earth-bound.
God will show me things profound.

He enables me to soar,
His heavenly riches to explore.
By His spirit I will “see”
With sight unhindered and set free.

The Spirit’s wind beneath my wings
Lifts me above life’s mundane things.
In my spirit I will fly
And to the heart of God draw nigh.

“But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God.”
I Corinthians 2:9-10 KJV

© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Creation Speaks

I see God in colors bright
And in twinkling stars at night.
His touch is everywhere I look...
In mountains, trees and rippling brook.

Melodies which bird’s song weave...
And crickets singing in the eve...
The sound of wind in distant trees...
Are nature’s songs our hearts to please.

Creation is a tapestry
Which our God made for you and me.
His “artwork” is His loving gift,
Our hearts to bless and lives to lift.

“O Lord, our Lord, how excellent (majestic and glorious) is Your name in all the earth!”
Psalm 8:1 Amplified Bible

© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The School Of Experience

Seniors offer priceless treasure.
They have gathered a great measure.
Listen to them... they are rich.
They can help you find your niche.

They held on when times were tough
And toiled hard to have enough.
Understanding learned through trial
Helped them walk the extra mile.

They have learned the need for prayer.
They have loved and truly care.
They had faith to not give up.
They knew that God would fill their cup.

Wisdom learned from years of living
And blessings shared from hearts of giving
Filled their lives with joy and peace.
For they have wisdom’s expertise.

“The (uncompromisingly) righteous shall flourish like the palm tree (be long-lived, stately, upright, useful and fruitful); he shall grow like a cedar in Lebanon (majestic, stable, durable and incorruptible). Planted in the house of the Lord, they shall flourish in the courts of our God.”
Psalms 92:12-13 Amplified Bible

© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Choice Silver

A wise man studies to learn fact...
To idle info won’t react.
If he’s not sure, then he will weigh
What he has heard... and then will pray.

He will measure every word
To make sure truth is never blurred.
Carefully he works things through,
Then will speak his “studied” view.

Those with wisdom we should hear,
For always they will be quite clear.
As they speak, rich truth we glean...
Wisdom on which we can lean.

“In the multitude of words there wanteth not sin: but he that refraineth his lips is wise. The tongue of the just is as choice silver...”
Proverbs 10:19-20 KJV

© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Autumn's Joy

Autumn gives her very best.
She makes sure the land is blessed.
Her artistry will cheer the soul
As she fulfills her annual role.

She brings jovial celebration
With her color-burst creation.
Painting with bright orange and reds,
Gloriously her joy she spreads.

To express her warmth to all
Is her treasured annual call.
But as she finishes her stay
Then she’ll sigh and slip away.

© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Building Wisely

Our God helps us to prepare
For every problem, every snare.
What we do must be well-built...
Strong, and not inclined to “tilt”.

We don’t know just what’s ahead,
But we don’t need to live in dread.
When we listen to God’s voice
He will help us make good choice.

We will live with what we’ve built.
If it is strong, we will not wilt.
Plan ahead as God would lead.
Always all His wisdom heed.

“A man’s mind plans his way; but the Lord directs his steps and makes them sure.”
Proverbs 16:9 Amplified Bible

© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Rejoice In God's Covering

When a door closes, it may not be bad.
If God closed the door, then we should be glad.
He watches over our steps every day
And He goes before us to “ready” our way.

We’re in safe keeping when we lean on Him.
Without Him our hopes would maybe be dim.
We may not know where His steps would lead.
He may surprise us and sow some “new seed”.

In all of His leading for us we will grow
If we are open His purpose to know.
We do not know what may be ahead,
But we will be blessed if by Him we’re led.

“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

Farmers Are Special

A farmer has a special job.
None his satisfaction rob.
When he works to plant his fields
And God gives him many yields...

He has felt a touch from God,
Known His smile and friendly nod.
He has pleasure deep within,
For God has blessed him once again.

Some don’t comprehend his “stance”...
And never will with just a glance.
If you’ve spent time on a farm,
Only then you’ll know its charm.

“Let the beauty of the Lord our God be upon us, and establish the work of our hands for us; yes, establish the work of our hands.”
Psalm 90:17 KJV

© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Higher Plane

Don’t become entangled
In the “atmosphere” about you,
For some folks wrangle and dispute,
No matter what they try to do.

Choose to set yourself apart
So you can stay above the fray.
Just be focused on your business,
From dissension turn away.

Concentrate on lovely things
And draw upon God’s endless joy.
He will give you inner peace
And be to you a constant buoy.

When you rise above the “din”
And move into a peaceful realm
You will reach a higher plane
Where noise and strife won’t overwhelm.

“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

Worshipping God

I do not need a “title” to tell folks who I am,
For titles matter little and sometimes are a sham.
If all I do exalts our God, then I have reached my goal.
My purpose is to worship Him... my most important role.

Maybe I could play a song, or write a simple rhyme,
But what is in my heart to do is praise Him all the time.
Then my life may bring some light to others who pass by.
As I praise through song or pen, to Him they might draw nigh.

“My praise shall be continually of thee.”
Psalm 71:6 KJV

© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Procrastination

Procrastination is a lure.
From work it is a sure detour.
It makes place for laziness,
Makes order into “haziness”.

The longer that we let it rule,
The more it will become a tool
To lead us down a path of ruin
Where undone things and waste are strewn.

The way to keep this “pest” at bay
Is never say, “Another day”.
Don’t let issues sit and wait.
Sometimes “later” is too late!

“He becometh poor that dealeth with a slack hand: but the hand of the diligent maketh rich.”
Proverbs 10:4 KJV

“And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men.”
Colossians 3:23 KJV

© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf

These Old Shoes

Shoes could tell a story, if they could only talk,
Of places you have been and all about your “walk”.
If you left an imprint, the shoes will surely know.
They’ve traveled with you every day... to them a debt you owe.

They’ve felt your love, and also ire, in every step you took.
You could not hide a thing from them, for they are like a book.
They’ve walked on rough ground and on smooth, their duty to fulfill.
They sometimes had no rest at all, but their complaints were nil.

Nothing else will feel as good as slipping into that old shoe.
They’re much more comfy oftentimes than something which is shiny new.
And this is why we sometimes make a fuss or much ado...
When we can’t find among the new our very special, favorite shoe!

© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Excuses And Denial

Excuses just are not good reasons
Not to fix what may be broke.
Denial won’t admit the truth
And hides behind a well-planned cloak.

These two cousins hold us back
From joys and blessings God would give.
These are not good choices
For the way we’re really meant to live.

God wants us to prosper...
To avoid these stumbling blocks...
So we always might be ready
If upon our door He knocks.

He has good things in store for us
(If we do not fall behind).
Excuses and denial block the truth
And, sadly, make us blind.

“He becometh poor that dealeth with a slack hand: but the hand of the diligent maketh rich.”
Proverbs 10:4 KJV

“The substance of a diligent man is precious.”
Proverbs 12:27 KJV

© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Being Lighthearted

If you’re under pressure and feel all stressed out,
It’s time to just rest and lay down your doubt.
When some of your weights are too large to bear
It’s time to release them and give time to prayer.

Let Jesus carry the weight of the load.
He’ll help you to rest in a more peaceful mode.
You can be lighthearted, though you work hard,
If you will trust Jesus... and worries discard.

The peace that He gives will help you be still,
Blocking your stress so you won’t be ill.
The Lord knows your limits and what you can stand.
It’s wise to place worries in the palm of His hand.

“Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy-laden and over burdened, and I will cause you to rest - I will ease and relieve and refresh your souls. Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am gentle (meek) and humble (lowly) in heart, and you will find rest -relief, ease and refreshment and recreation and blessed quiet - for your souls. For My yoke is wholesome, (useful, good) - not harsh, hard, sharp or pressing, but comfortable, gracious and pleasant; and My burden is light and easy to be borne.”
Matthew 11:28-30 Amplified Bible

© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Trusting God

If inside you have a dream
And you want it to come true,
Place it in the hands of God
To see if it is right for you.

In His timing, if it’s right,
He will work in your behalf.
He will bring your dream to pass
And bless you with His “autograph”.

But if He has a bigger plan,
Of which right now you aren’t aware,
Trust in Him to show the way.
Wait and seek His face in prayer.

Your life is safe within His hands.
His work in you will be the best.
When you trust Him in your heart
How bountifully you will be blessed!

“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