When I bake cookies, I always want to use the finest ingredients. So when I shop I search for the best chocolate morsels and dried fruits. I buy pure extracts, rather than imitation. And when I bake my cookies, I carefully watch them so that they don't burn.
I want to have a supply of the best cookies so that I will be able to share them with others. And then when the cookies are all gone and only crumbs are left, I must replenish the supply..... for crumbs are not enough.
Reading the Word of God is like that. When God gave us His Word, He gave us His very best. His Word is full of "choice morsels" of wisdom. It is good to "stock up" so that I have a "store" of strength to draw upon. If I don't stay in the Word, pretty soon I will be in the "crumbs" stage..... not much left to go on. And I won't have anything of substance to share with others.....
If I want to be strong, I know I must "dine" in the Word and "stay full".... the Word of God is life's most gourmet food.....
"Your words were found, and I ate them, and Your word was to me the joy and rejoicing of my heart."
Jeremiah 15:16a NKJ
© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Tuesday, January 31, 2006
Monday, January 30, 2006
Expressions Of The Heart
The words of the heart are written
in the countenance and expressed in one's actions.
What is hidden there will reflect in that life, and
steer it in the right (or the wrong) direction.
What is there will "keep" the heart or destroy it,
stunt it's growth and cloud it's vision, or
cause it to prosper and fulfill God's intended design.
How wonderful the imprint of Jesus
on a heart... to keep it tender and pure,
and cause it to blossom and smile.
For a smiling heart is a gift from Him,
and it speaks of His love and beauty.
"Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord, my strength and my redeemer."
Psalm 19:14 NKJ
© 2005 ArleneSchwartzkopf
in the countenance and expressed in one's actions.
What is hidden there will reflect in that life, and
steer it in the right (or the wrong) direction.
What is there will "keep" the heart or destroy it,
stunt it's growth and cloud it's vision, or
cause it to prosper and fulfill God's intended design.
How wonderful the imprint of Jesus
on a heart... to keep it tender and pure,
and cause it to blossom and smile.
For a smiling heart is a gift from Him,
and it speaks of His love and beauty.
"Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord, my strength and my redeemer."
Psalm 19:14 NKJ
© 2005 ArleneSchwartzkopf
Sunday, January 29, 2006
One Sunday Morning
A True Story
The singing was nice in the church that day,
As we readied to hear what the preacher would say.
But before he would speak we would have celebration
As a family came forth for a baby dedication.
While the preacher was praying, their child bumped the flowers,
Drenching the floor with un-needed "showers".
The water ran into a vent in the floor
With a loud dripping sound you couldn't ignore.
An elder came in with a pail and a mop
To clean up the mess so the dripping would stop.
He mopped up the water... cleaned up every drop,
Each time making noise when he squeezed out the mop.
The wife of the elder sat by me in choir,
Trying to act "reverent", as manners require.
Though harder and harder she tried not to giggle,
She was shaking so hard she made the pew wiggle.
I was biting my tongue to keep a straight face,
When just then the elder... Without any grace
Backed into the pail, and the water all went
Back onto the floor, dripping into the vent.
The elder's wife "lost it" and now the pew shook.
I stared down in my lap, afraid even to look.
I was laughing so hard, it made my sides ache,
Wondering what the next clean-up would take.
Then once again he started to mop,
As the water in the vent went, "plop, plop, plop".
He finally finished and went out with the pail.
Now the preacher could preach and order could prevail.
The preacher kept speaking through all of the fuss.
He tried to stay focused, which was a real "plus".
When the service was over, much to my dismay,
I didn't remember the message that day.
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
The singing was nice in the church that day,
As we readied to hear what the preacher would say.
But before he would speak we would have celebration
As a family came forth for a baby dedication.
While the preacher was praying, their child bumped the flowers,
Drenching the floor with un-needed "showers".
The water ran into a vent in the floor
With a loud dripping sound you couldn't ignore.
An elder came in with a pail and a mop
To clean up the mess so the dripping would stop.
He mopped up the water... cleaned up every drop,
Each time making noise when he squeezed out the mop.
The wife of the elder sat by me in choir,
Trying to act "reverent", as manners require.
Though harder and harder she tried not to giggle,
She was shaking so hard she made the pew wiggle.
I was biting my tongue to keep a straight face,
When just then the elder... Without any grace
Backed into the pail, and the water all went
Back onto the floor, dripping into the vent.
The elder's wife "lost it" and now the pew shook.
I stared down in my lap, afraid even to look.
I was laughing so hard, it made my sides ache,
Wondering what the next clean-up would take.
Then once again he started to mop,
As the water in the vent went, "plop, plop, plop".
He finally finished and went out with the pail.
Now the preacher could preach and order could prevail.
The preacher kept speaking through all of the fuss.
He tried to stay focused, which was a real "plus".
When the service was over, much to my dismay,
I didn't remember the message that day.
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Saturday, January 28, 2006
Sing To The Lord
Gram is almost 100 years old and has many interesting tales to tell of her life on the farm as a young girl.
One such story was about a cow they had. This cow was testy and mean, and Gram and her sister always had trouble milking her. Each time before they could finish, she would put her foot in the milk pail or kick the pail over, spilling out all the milk.
So one day these two young girls decided to sing while they were milking her. And to their surprise, she no longer would kick the pail over. Also, each time the girls started singing, the other cows all lined up by the fence to listen.
One day I said to Gram, "By the way, what kind of songs were you singing?"
Her answer was, "Church songs."
This all took place back in the early 1900's, so I have often wondered what these two young girls might have been singing..... maybe, "Onward Christian Soldiers", or "The Little Brown Church In The Wildwood", or "Jesus Loves Me", or "Amazing Grace". These are only guesses, and it's fun to think about, but singing "church songs" became a solution for a problem they otherwise could not solve.
"I will sing to the Lord as long as I live; I will sing praise to my God while I have my being."
Psalm 104:33 NKJ
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
One such story was about a cow they had. This cow was testy and mean, and Gram and her sister always had trouble milking her. Each time before they could finish, she would put her foot in the milk pail or kick the pail over, spilling out all the milk.
So one day these two young girls decided to sing while they were milking her. And to their surprise, she no longer would kick the pail over. Also, each time the girls started singing, the other cows all lined up by the fence to listen.
One day I said to Gram, "By the way, what kind of songs were you singing?"
Her answer was, "Church songs."
This all took place back in the early 1900's, so I have often wondered what these two young girls might have been singing..... maybe, "Onward Christian Soldiers", or "The Little Brown Church In The Wildwood", or "Jesus Loves Me", or "Amazing Grace". These are only guesses, and it's fun to think about, but singing "church songs" became a solution for a problem they otherwise could not solve.
"I will sing to the Lord as long as I live; I will sing praise to my God while I have my being."
Psalm 104:33 NKJ
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Friday, January 27, 2006
God's Footpath
God will make a footpath
When you cannot find your way.
He will show you where to step
And all your fears allay.
His path may be the only one
As light of day grows dim,
But you can find that footpath
As you trust and wait on Him.
He will not forsake you
Nor leave you all alone,
But faithfully will guide you
Through those times which are unknown.
You can trust in Jesus...
That He will light your way
And guide you in a careful path,
Every hour and every day.
"Teach me Your way, O Lord, and lead me in a smooth path, because of my enemies."
Psalm 27:11 NKJ
"My help comes from the Lord, Who made heaven and earth. He will not allow your foot to be moved; He Who keeps you will not slumber."
Psalm 121:2-3 NKJ
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
When you cannot find your way.
He will show you where to step
And all your fears allay.
His path may be the only one
As light of day grows dim,
But you can find that footpath
As you trust and wait on Him.
He will not forsake you
Nor leave you all alone,
But faithfully will guide you
Through those times which are unknown.
You can trust in Jesus...
That He will light your way
And guide you in a careful path,
Every hour and every day.
"Teach me Your way, O Lord, and lead me in a smooth path, because of my enemies."
Psalm 27:11 NKJ
"My help comes from the Lord, Who made heaven and earth. He will not allow your foot to be moved; He Who keeps you will not slumber."
Psalm 121:2-3 NKJ
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Thursday, January 26, 2006
Joy
Joy warms the heart.
Joy buoys up the spirit.
Joy gives balance for a heavy load.
Joy has a positive outlook.
Joy looks up.
Joy brings peace.
Joy promotes healing
Joy changes perspective.
Joy is as a fragrant salve for the spirit..... a healing balm.
Joy is the smile of God within us..... richly adorning the countenance and transforming the heart.
"In Your presence is fullness of joy..."
Psalm 16:11 NKJ
© 2004 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Joy buoys up the spirit.
Joy gives balance for a heavy load.
Joy has a positive outlook.
Joy looks up.
Joy brings peace.
Joy promotes healing
Joy changes perspective.
Joy is as a fragrant salve for the spirit..... a healing balm.
Joy is the smile of God within us..... richly adorning the countenance and transforming the heart.
"In Your presence is fullness of joy..."
Psalm 16:11 NKJ
© 2004 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Wednesday, January 25, 2006
Instrument Of Worship
A Vision
I looked at the piano before me..... it was a deep, warm red, burnished with gold. The finish was pearlescent in appearance. I had never seen color like that before..... nor had I seen a finish like that.....
As I stood and gazed at the piano, I realized that it was translucent.... I could see through the phenomenally beautiful frame of it. Inside were infrared coils. The coils were radiating intense heat, but I could stand right next to this piano and not be burnt.
What God was showing me was that He inhabits an instrument when it is used for worship. It "comes alive" and radiates the warmth of the Holy Spirit as it is being played. The sound of that instrument is transformed by His presence.
"Praise Him with stringed instruments and flutes."
Psalm 150:4b NKJ
I looked at the piano before me..... it was a deep, warm red, burnished with gold. The finish was pearlescent in appearance. I had never seen color like that before..... nor had I seen a finish like that.....
As I stood and gazed at the piano, I realized that it was translucent.... I could see through the phenomenally beautiful frame of it. Inside were infrared coils. The coils were radiating intense heat, but I could stand right next to this piano and not be burnt.
What God was showing me was that He inhabits an instrument when it is used for worship. It "comes alive" and radiates the warmth of the Holy Spirit as it is being played. The sound of that instrument is transformed by His presence.
"Praise Him with stringed instruments and flutes."
Psalm 150:4b NKJ
© 2004 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Tuesday, January 24, 2006
The Little Lost Lamb
A little lamb went out to play,
And soon he couldn't find the way
Back to where the other sheep stay.
He found himself quite far astray.
So he decided to explore
What he had not seen heretofore.
As he searched and looked around,
Pain and sorrow are what he found.
Other sheep were cruel and mean,
And he had no shepherd on which to lean.
They mocked and laughed at his small bleat
And gave him things he should not eat.
They only thought of selfish gain,
And now the lamb had fear and pain.
He longed to find his very own flock,
For being lost was quite a shock.
The Shepherd knew how little lambs stray
And how they sometimes lose their way.
He went to find His little sheep
Because His love for him was deep.
He brought him back into the fold
And held him close 'cause he was cold.
It isn't good to wander away,
But with the Shepherd to always stay.
"If a man has a hundred sheep, and one of them goes astray, does he not leave the ninety-nine and go to the mountains to seek the one that is straying? And if he should find it, assuredly, I say to you, he rejoices more over that sheep than over the ninety-nine that did not go astray."
Matthew 18:12-13 NKJ
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
And soon he couldn't find the way
Back to where the other sheep stay.
He found himself quite far astray.
So he decided to explore
What he had not seen heretofore.
As he searched and looked around,
Pain and sorrow are what he found.
Other sheep were cruel and mean,
And he had no shepherd on which to lean.
They mocked and laughed at his small bleat
And gave him things he should not eat.
They only thought of selfish gain,
And now the lamb had fear and pain.
He longed to find his very own flock,
For being lost was quite a shock.
The Shepherd knew how little lambs stray
And how they sometimes lose their way.
He went to find His little sheep
Because His love for him was deep.
He brought him back into the fold
And held him close 'cause he was cold.
It isn't good to wander away,
But with the Shepherd to always stay.
"If a man has a hundred sheep, and one of them goes astray, does he not leave the ninety-nine and go to the mountains to seek the one that is straying? And if he should find it, assuredly, I say to you, he rejoices more over that sheep than over the ninety-nine that did not go astray."
Matthew 18:12-13 NKJ
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Monday, January 23, 2006
A Blessed Home
How blessed is the home
Which has learned not to "rush",
But has chosen a schedule
Which won't stress or "crush".
Families today
Are in a real bind,
With too much to do
And too much on their mind.
By too much involvement
Or extra time spent
On outside activities,
Families are rent.
Blessed is the family
That spends time together,
For they will come through
Tough times and "bad weather".
They will have learned
To stay close to each other
And appreciate sister,
Mom, Dad and brother.
How blessed is the home
Where "family" is found,
Where good times and joy
And laughter abound.
"By wisdom a house is built, and by understanding it is established; by knowledge the rooms are filled with all precious and pleasant riches."
Proverbs 24:3-4 NKJ
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Which has learned not to "rush",
But has chosen a schedule
Which won't stress or "crush".
Families today
Are in a real bind,
With too much to do
And too much on their mind.
By too much involvement
Or extra time spent
On outside activities,
Families are rent.
Blessed is the family
That spends time together,
For they will come through
Tough times and "bad weather".
They will have learned
To stay close to each other
And appreciate sister,
Mom, Dad and brother.
How blessed is the home
Where "family" is found,
Where good times and joy
And laughter abound.
"By wisdom a house is built, and by understanding it is established; by knowledge the rooms are filled with all precious and pleasant riches."
Proverbs 24:3-4 NKJ
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sunday, January 22, 2006
Threads Of Loveliness
The Lord weaves threads of His loveliness into each day to bring added dimension to every aspect of our experience..... so that as we move through each day we may see His beauty, feel His touch and perceive His presence all around us. His beauty is woven throughout all of His creation. How great are His benefits to His children.
As we diligently seek Him, His beauty becomes more and more visible to us, and increasingly we will comprehend the richness of His love and caring..... whereby we are very rich.
"One thing I have desired of the Lord, that will I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the Lord, and to inquire in His temple."
Psalm 27:4 NKJ
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
As we diligently seek Him, His beauty becomes more and more visible to us, and increasingly we will comprehend the richness of His love and caring..... whereby we are very rich.
"One thing I have desired of the Lord, that will I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the Lord, and to inquire in His temple."
Psalm 27:4 NKJ
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Saturday, January 21, 2006
Senior Moments
When my "get up and go"
Just got up and went,
I sat down to rest,
Though I had good intent!
When I go to the fridge,
Then forget what I need,
Sometimes it takes me
Two tries to succeed!
But being a senior
Is not all that bad.
I can laugh at myself
(As I check my notepad).
I can do things at leisure,
I don't need to hurry.
I'd rather have fun
Than to fuss, fret and worry.
I have time to laugh,
I have time to putter.
(But I've saved too much stuff).
Gotta' clean up the clutter!
I have time for my family
Or time for a friend,
Or reading a book
Or letters to send.
Or I can sit in my rocker
And just reminisce,
Thanking God everyday
For this season of bliss!
It's a good season!
© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Just got up and went,
I sat down to rest,
Though I had good intent!
When I go to the fridge,
Then forget what I need,
Sometimes it takes me
Two tries to succeed!
But being a senior
Is not all that bad.
I can laugh at myself
(As I check my notepad).
I can do things at leisure,
I don't need to hurry.
I'd rather have fun
Than to fuss, fret and worry.
I have time to laugh,
I have time to putter.
(But I've saved too much stuff).
Gotta' clean up the clutter!
I have time for my family
Or time for a friend,
Or reading a book
Or letters to send.
Or I can sit in my rocker
And just reminisce,
Thanking God everyday
For this season of bliss!
It's a good season!
© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Friday, January 20, 2006
A Lesson Learned
A Children's Poem
Bobby yelled, Suzy hit me,
Jason took my toy.
When I have these kinds of days,
It seems I lose my joy!
I should try to like these kids...
(Sometimes it isn't easy!)
But then I have my bad days too,
When I just feel uneasy.
When I go to Sunday School
They teach me to be good...
That Jesus helps us boys and girls
To act the way we should.
So I forgive my little friends,
No matter what they do.
If I'm nice and kind to them,
Maybe they'll be nice too.
"Love suffers long and is kind."
I Corinthians 13:4 NKJ
© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Bobby yelled, Suzy hit me,
Jason took my toy.
When I have these kinds of days,
It seems I lose my joy!
I should try to like these kids...
(Sometimes it isn't easy!)
But then I have my bad days too,
When I just feel uneasy.
When I go to Sunday School
They teach me to be good...
That Jesus helps us boys and girls
To act the way we should.
So I forgive my little friends,
No matter what they do.
If I'm nice and kind to them,
Maybe they'll be nice too.
"Love suffers long and is kind."
I Corinthians 13:4 NKJ
© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Thursday, January 19, 2006
People Who Inspire
Dorothy
Dorothy was a very special lady......
I first met her as she stood at the door of our church greeting people. Always she was there with a big smile, welcoming people. She was well-dressed and always well-groomed.
Dorothy was petite..... perhaps four feet, ten inches tall. But I never thought of her as small, because as a prayer warrior she was more like nine feet tall - she was mighty!
She was an organist, playing for several churches over time, even into her 70's. She loved the Lord and loved to worship Him.
At times her life had not been easy, but I never heard her complain. Dorothy was married twice..... and widowed twice. I commented to her one day, "It must have been really hard to go through losing a husband twice!"
Her answer was, "Well, I never felt really alone. Jesus was always with me." This was the most prominent thing about Dorothy, and it was the secret to who she was. She knew the Lord well and always walked in His presence. She said once that when she worked full-time, she would go to her car on her lunch hour so she could read the Word and talk to Him. She had conversation with Him all through her day.
When I was going through a dark time in my life, she came alongside me in prayer, and she called me every evening to pray and encourage me. Then one morning she called me early and asked, "Arlene, are you okay?"
I said, "I think I am" ..... wondering what she meant.
She answered, "No, you aren't. You're in shock. I've been up all night praying for you!" (She was already in her 70's at this time.)
I had received some news the night before and had shared it with her. The news didn't affect me at first, but she was right. As the days went by, I realized that I was indeed in shock. It was like a cloud hanging over me, and I just couldn't function right. Nor could I change the condition by myself, because I just needed time to heal. But Dorothy stood by me daily in prayer and, after four and one-half months, the cloud lifted.
Her faithfulness as a friend was remarkable. From a heart of love, always she reached out to serve others. She stayed by my side for several years and was a very wonderful inspiration in my life.
At age 78 she went home to be with Jesus, Who was her very best friend.
"Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you."
I Thessalonians 5:16-17 NKJ
© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Dorothy was a very special lady......
I first met her as she stood at the door of our church greeting people. Always she was there with a big smile, welcoming people. She was well-dressed and always well-groomed.
Dorothy was petite..... perhaps four feet, ten inches tall. But I never thought of her as small, because as a prayer warrior she was more like nine feet tall - she was mighty!
She was an organist, playing for several churches over time, even into her 70's. She loved the Lord and loved to worship Him.
At times her life had not been easy, but I never heard her complain. Dorothy was married twice..... and widowed twice. I commented to her one day, "It must have been really hard to go through losing a husband twice!"
Her answer was, "Well, I never felt really alone. Jesus was always with me." This was the most prominent thing about Dorothy, and it was the secret to who she was. She knew the Lord well and always walked in His presence. She said once that when she worked full-time, she would go to her car on her lunch hour so she could read the Word and talk to Him. She had conversation with Him all through her day.
When I was going through a dark time in my life, she came alongside me in prayer, and she called me every evening to pray and encourage me. Then one morning she called me early and asked, "Arlene, are you okay?"
I said, "I think I am" ..... wondering what she meant.
She answered, "No, you aren't. You're in shock. I've been up all night praying for you!" (She was already in her 70's at this time.)
I had received some news the night before and had shared it with her. The news didn't affect me at first, but she was right. As the days went by, I realized that I was indeed in shock. It was like a cloud hanging over me, and I just couldn't function right. Nor could I change the condition by myself, because I just needed time to heal. But Dorothy stood by me daily in prayer and, after four and one-half months, the cloud lifted.
Her faithfulness as a friend was remarkable. From a heart of love, always she reached out to serve others. She stayed by my side for several years and was a very wonderful inspiration in my life.
At age 78 she went home to be with Jesus, Who was her very best friend.
"Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you."
I Thessalonians 5:16-17 NKJ
© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Wednesday, January 18, 2006
Stained Glass
The mosaic of a life is as stained glass.....
Pieces fitted together by the Master's hand.........
Colors carefully placed in unique design, made to be transparent.......
The beauty of the finished design can only be discovered
when His light shines from within.
When that life is filled with His light the brilliant colors become visible, and the rich reflections fall on everyone near......
"Your hands have made me and fashioned me...."
Psalm 119:73 NKJ
"Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven."
Matthew 5:16 NKJ
© 2003 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Pieces fitted together by the Master's hand.........
Colors carefully placed in unique design, made to be transparent.......
The beauty of the finished design can only be discovered
when His light shines from within.
When that life is filled with His light the brilliant colors become visible, and the rich reflections fall on everyone near......
"Your hands have made me and fashioned me...."
Psalm 119:73 NKJ
"Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven."
Matthew 5:16 NKJ
© 2003 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Tuesday, January 17, 2006
A Child's Touch
A little child came and touched my heart
When I was weary and falling apart.
He brought me a lamb so I wouldn't be sad,
With a smile and a hug to make my heart glad.
And so my heart healed. I no longer felt "teary".
He lifted me up.... I no longer was weary.
How pure and sincere was the love of this child...
Not harsh as the world, but gentle and mild.
The compassion in him was beyond his young years.
God used him to heal me and stop all my tears.
"Love never fails."
I Corinthians 13:8 NKJ
"Out of the mouth of babes and infants You have ordained strength."
Psalm 8:2 NKJ
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
When I was weary and falling apart.
He brought me a lamb so I wouldn't be sad,
With a smile and a hug to make my heart glad.
And so my heart healed. I no longer felt "teary".
He lifted me up.... I no longer was weary.
How pure and sincere was the love of this child...
Not harsh as the world, but gentle and mild.
The compassion in him was beyond his young years.
God used him to heal me and stop all my tears.
"Love never fails."
I Corinthians 13:8 NKJ
"Out of the mouth of babes and infants You have ordained strength."
Psalm 8:2 NKJ
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Monday, January 16, 2006
The Rooms Of My Life
If Jesus came into
The rooms of my mind,
What would be waiting there?
What would He find?
Would negative thoughts and
Doubt make Him weep?
Would meaningless clutter
Be piled in a heap?
If Jesus came into
The rooms of my heart,
Would He be at peace there,
Or want to depart?
Can I stop what I'm doing
And set all aside
So He can find welcome
And want to reside?
Sometimes our Savior
Cannot find a "home",
For we don't receive Him
And cause Him to roam...
In search of a life
Which will give Him first place...
Where the rooms are quite full
Of His beauty and grace.
"Set your mind on things above, not on things of the earth."
Colossians 2:2 NKJ
"My heart and my flesh cry out for the living God."
Psalm 84:2b NKJ
© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf
The rooms of my mind,
What would be waiting there?
What would He find?
Would negative thoughts and
Doubt make Him weep?
Would meaningless clutter
Be piled in a heap?
If Jesus came into
The rooms of my heart,
Would He be at peace there,
Or want to depart?
Can I stop what I'm doing
And set all aside
So He can find welcome
And want to reside?
Sometimes our Savior
Cannot find a "home",
For we don't receive Him
And cause Him to roam...
In search of a life
Which will give Him first place...
Where the rooms are quite full
Of His beauty and grace.
"Set your mind on things above, not on things of the earth."
Colossians 2:2 NKJ
"My heart and my flesh cry out for the living God."
Psalm 84:2b NKJ
© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sunday, January 15, 2006
A Special Quilt
Always I have been fascinated by patchwork quilts.....
You cannot just "glance" at a patchwork quilt. There is much more there to see. And so I always find myself lingering and looking at all the different colors and designs of fabrics which have been stitched together. When my grandmother made quilts, she used even the smallest pieces of fabric and stitched them somewhere into the quilt top, and all the pieces were important to the beauty of the quilt.
The Body of Christ is like that. It is as though the Lord has made a quilt..... of myriad colors and patterns and prints and carefully joined them together.....
The Lord takes His beautiful, variegated "fabrics" and places them together in the quilt which is His Body. In His quilt are warmth and strength, healing and comfort, joy and peace, laughter and courage, fellowship and "family". Usually quilts have a binding, and the binding around this quilt is love.
As we become "patches" in His beautifully planned quilt, we are joined together, one with another. And we become part of His rich design.
This is His Body.....
This is His Handiwork.....
"Beloved, let us love one another, for love is of God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God."
I John 4:7 NKJ
© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf
You cannot just "glance" at a patchwork quilt. There is much more there to see. And so I always find myself lingering and looking at all the different colors and designs of fabrics which have been stitched together. When my grandmother made quilts, she used even the smallest pieces of fabric and stitched them somewhere into the quilt top, and all the pieces were important to the beauty of the quilt.
The Body of Christ is like that. It is as though the Lord has made a quilt..... of myriad colors and patterns and prints and carefully joined them together.....
The Lord takes His beautiful, variegated "fabrics" and places them together in the quilt which is His Body. In His quilt are warmth and strength, healing and comfort, joy and peace, laughter and courage, fellowship and "family". Usually quilts have a binding, and the binding around this quilt is love.
As we become "patches" in His beautifully planned quilt, we are joined together, one with another. And we become part of His rich design.
This is His Body.....
This is His Handiwork.....
"Beloved, let us love one another, for love is of God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God."
I John 4:7 NKJ
© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Saturday, January 14, 2006
The Grouch
THE TURTLE AND THE PORCUPINE
Snappy was a turtle,
And Snappy wasn't happy.
(He was a GROUCH!)
Porci was a porcupine
And was in trouble all the time!
(Too many QUILLS!)
Neither one could find a friend
Because they always would offend.
It isn't good to snap at others...
Friends and neighbors, moms and brothers.
It's even worse to send a quill.
It seems to dampen ALL good will!
These little creatures bring reminder...
Every day we should be kinder.
God has shown us through His Son
We should be kind to everyone.
"Love suffers long and is kind. Love does not behave rudely."
I Corinthinas 13:4a & 5a NKJ
© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Snappy was a turtle,
And Snappy wasn't happy.
(He was a GROUCH!)
Porci was a porcupine
And was in trouble all the time!
(Too many QUILLS!)
Neither one could find a friend
Because they always would offend.
It isn't good to snap at others...
Friends and neighbors, moms and brothers.
It's even worse to send a quill.
It seems to dampen ALL good will!
These little creatures bring reminder...
Every day we should be kinder.
God has shown us through His Son
We should be kind to everyone.
"Love suffers long and is kind. Love does not behave rudely."
I Corinthinas 13:4a & 5a NKJ
© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Friday, January 13, 2006
The Best Answer
Lord, You are.....
The One Who sorts out the confusions of my life,
The One Who strengthens me when I am faint,
The One Who gives endurance when I am weary,
The One Who gives sufficiency when I am inadequate.
When I LEAN on You, I find balance.
When I RETREAT into Your presence, I move forward.
When I BOW DOWN before You, yet I shall stand taller.
When I GIVE UP my will to You, I shall find my purpose.
All that I place in Your hands rests safely and has promise...
"The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in Him, and I am helped."
Psalm 28:7 NKJ
"A man's steps are of the Lord; how then can a man understand his own way?"
Proverbs 20:24 NKJ
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
The One Who sorts out the confusions of my life,
The One Who strengthens me when I am faint,
The One Who gives endurance when I am weary,
The One Who gives sufficiency when I am inadequate.
When I LEAN on You, I find balance.
When I RETREAT into Your presence, I move forward.
When I BOW DOWN before You, yet I shall stand taller.
When I GIVE UP my will to You, I shall find my purpose.
All that I place in Your hands rests safely and has promise...
"The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in Him, and I am helped."
Psalm 28:7 NKJ
"A man's steps are of the Lord; how then can a man understand his own way?"
Proverbs 20:24 NKJ
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Thursday, January 12, 2006
A Pretty Coat
God's blessings and provision are always wonderful and have often brought joy to my life in a beautiful way.
One day I walked into church and noticed that a lady there had on a very lovely black velvet coat with leather trim. I thought it was beautiful, and within myself quietly said, "Oh, I would love to have a coat like that some day." I wasn't shopping for a coat, and I didn't think I could afford anything like that anyway. It was only a thought at the time, and then I didn't think any more about it. And I didn't say anything to my family or anyone else about it.
Approximately two weeks later I received a call from someone saying that they had a coat that they thought I would like and that they wanted to give it to me. When I saw it I was really blessed and much amazed. This too was a lovely velvet coat.... not the same as the one I had seen previously, but equally beautiful. And it fit me perfectly.
God knows all about our needs and wants. He knows our every thought. Through this event, I became so aware of how much He cares for every aspect of our lives and how much He wants to bless His children.
"Delight yourself also in the Lord, and He shall give you the desires of your heart."
Psalm 37:4 NKJ
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
One day I walked into church and noticed that a lady there had on a very lovely black velvet coat with leather trim. I thought it was beautiful, and within myself quietly said, "Oh, I would love to have a coat like that some day." I wasn't shopping for a coat, and I didn't think I could afford anything like that anyway. It was only a thought at the time, and then I didn't think any more about it. And I didn't say anything to my family or anyone else about it.
Approximately two weeks later I received a call from someone saying that they had a coat that they thought I would like and that they wanted to give it to me. When I saw it I was really blessed and much amazed. This too was a lovely velvet coat.... not the same as the one I had seen previously, but equally beautiful. And it fit me perfectly.
God knows all about our needs and wants. He knows our every thought. Through this event, I became so aware of how much He cares for every aspect of our lives and how much He wants to bless His children.
"Delight yourself also in the Lord, and He shall give you the desires of your heart."
Psalm 37:4 NKJ
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Wednesday, January 11, 2006
Poor Me
Self-pity sings it's woeful song
Because "the world has done it wrong!"
It mopes and weeps and carries on.
"Poor me" it sings the whole day long.
It's hard to have this thing around.
It spoils your joy and pulls you down.
It will not let you help it out.
It only wants to sit and pout!
It will not look beyond it's nose.
But wails and moans and tantrums throws.
And so it's sorrow grows and grows
As it centers on it's woes.
What a crummy partner - he
Who calls himself with pride "self-pity".
Don't let him in to roam about.
Shut the door and keep him out!
"Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light."
Matthew 11:28-30 NKJ
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Because "the world has done it wrong!"
It mopes and weeps and carries on.
"Poor me" it sings the whole day long.
It's hard to have this thing around.
It spoils your joy and pulls you down.
It will not let you help it out.
It only wants to sit and pout!
It will not look beyond it's nose.
But wails and moans and tantrums throws.
And so it's sorrow grows and grows
As it centers on it's woes.
What a crummy partner - he
Who calls himself with pride "self-pity".
Don't let him in to roam about.
Shut the door and keep him out!
"Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light."
Matthew 11:28-30 NKJ
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Tuesday, January 10, 2006
Parking Attendant
THE PARKING LOT ATTENDANT
In years past I needed to take a series of allergy shots, which required my going downtown to the medical center where my doctor had his office. Next to the medical building was a parking lot and, for convenience' sake, I would park there to save time each time I went.
The man who ran the lot was tall and very unhappy looking. At first I was quite apprehensive of him. Time after time I took my car to his lot, but always he was uncommunicative, and he never smiled.
Over a period of time I noticed that he ran his lot well and gave good service to people. And he didn't seem to miss any days. He was there in the heat of summer (you could see the heat coming up off the asphalt), and he was there in the cold of winter.
So I began to greet him each time with a cheery "good morning", and then thanked him each time I left. But still there was never any trace of emotion in his eyes or in his facial expression or in his voice.
One morning when I needed to go downtown for my shot, it was very, very cold out. The temperature was in the 20-degree range and it was windy. I thought about the man in the lot, and the Lord gave me an idea.....
I put some oatmeal cookies in a plastic container for him. And then I was hoping as I drove downtown that I could get him some coffee from the coffee shop in the medical center. Now we have "take-out" coffee available everywhere, but that was not true back then.
As I pulled into the parking lot, the attendant was there, bracing himself against the wind and looking very chilled. I went into the medical center and got my allergy shot, and then I headed for the coffee shop. I told the waitress I wanted to take coffee to the parking lot fellow and asked if she could help me. She found some styrofoam cups, so I now had a hot drink to take to the man.
When I came out of the building into the parking lot, the wind was blowing so hard that I wondered if the coffee would still be hot when I gave it to him. I tried to be casual as I spoke to him..... "It's cold out here. You need something hot to drink!"
Then I handed him the cookie container..... "Here is something to go with the coffee....." There were a few awkward seconds, because he didn't know what to say. So I went on with..... "I'll get the container later. Thank you for good service."
At this point a miracle happened..... he began to smile..... only for a few moments..... but he did smile.....
I do not know what the burden was in his life that caused him to be so withdrawn and unhappy, but perhaps....... just perhaps....... he remembers that someone cared for him at some point in his life. And maybe somehow or some way it might help him to have courage at a later time when all around him is failing.....
The reward I felt at seeing him even be able to smile was so much more than the effort it took to reach out to him.....
"Just as you want men to do to you, you also
do to them likewise."
Luke 6:31 NKJ
© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf
In years past I needed to take a series of allergy shots, which required my going downtown to the medical center where my doctor had his office. Next to the medical building was a parking lot and, for convenience' sake, I would park there to save time each time I went.
The man who ran the lot was tall and very unhappy looking. At first I was quite apprehensive of him. Time after time I took my car to his lot, but always he was uncommunicative, and he never smiled.
Over a period of time I noticed that he ran his lot well and gave good service to people. And he didn't seem to miss any days. He was there in the heat of summer (you could see the heat coming up off the asphalt), and he was there in the cold of winter.
So I began to greet him each time with a cheery "good morning", and then thanked him each time I left. But still there was never any trace of emotion in his eyes or in his facial expression or in his voice.
One morning when I needed to go downtown for my shot, it was very, very cold out. The temperature was in the 20-degree range and it was windy. I thought about the man in the lot, and the Lord gave me an idea.....
I put some oatmeal cookies in a plastic container for him. And then I was hoping as I drove downtown that I could get him some coffee from the coffee shop in the medical center. Now we have "take-out" coffee available everywhere, but that was not true back then.
As I pulled into the parking lot, the attendant was there, bracing himself against the wind and looking very chilled. I went into the medical center and got my allergy shot, and then I headed for the coffee shop. I told the waitress I wanted to take coffee to the parking lot fellow and asked if she could help me. She found some styrofoam cups, so I now had a hot drink to take to the man.
When I came out of the building into the parking lot, the wind was blowing so hard that I wondered if the coffee would still be hot when I gave it to him. I tried to be casual as I spoke to him..... "It's cold out here. You need something hot to drink!"
Then I handed him the cookie container..... "Here is something to go with the coffee....." There were a few awkward seconds, because he didn't know what to say. So I went on with..... "I'll get the container later. Thank you for good service."
At this point a miracle happened..... he began to smile..... only for a few moments..... but he did smile.....
I do not know what the burden was in his life that caused him to be so withdrawn and unhappy, but perhaps....... just perhaps....... he remembers that someone cared for him at some point in his life. And maybe somehow or some way it might help him to have courage at a later time when all around him is failing.....
The reward I felt at seeing him even be able to smile was so much more than the effort it took to reach out to him.....
"Just as you want men to do to you, you also
do to them likewise."
Luke 6:31 NKJ
© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Monday, January 09, 2006
Violet Seasons
The Lesson of the Violet
Seasons of Rest
I saw my little violet plant,
So full of lovely bloom.....
But it's little pot it would outgrow,
It's roots would need more room.
So when it found a larger "home"
Where it's roots could spread and grow,
It needed time to gain new strength
Before again it's bloom would show.
You couldn't see it doing much.....
It wasn't getting "oohs" and "aahs",
But hidden growth was happening
During this time of rest and pause.
Until the pot it's roots could fill,
It needed nurture, love and care,
And when it's timing was complete
Again it's blossom would be there.
Lord,
Thank You for giving seasons of rest..... those quiet times for finding nurture and new strength in You. For when I am rested and strengthened in You, then I can blossom again.....
In Jesus' Name.
"Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for Him....."
Psalm 37:7 NKJ
© 2003 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Seasons of Rest
I saw my little violet plant,
So full of lovely bloom.....
But it's little pot it would outgrow,
It's roots would need more room.
So when it found a larger "home"
Where it's roots could spread and grow,
It needed time to gain new strength
Before again it's bloom would show.
You couldn't see it doing much.....
It wasn't getting "oohs" and "aahs",
But hidden growth was happening
During this time of rest and pause.
Until the pot it's roots could fill,
It needed nurture, love and care,
And when it's timing was complete
Again it's blossom would be there.
Lord,
Thank You for giving seasons of rest..... those quiet times for finding nurture and new strength in You. For when I am rested and strengthened in You, then I can blossom again.....
In Jesus' Name.
"Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for Him....."
Psalm 37:7 NKJ
© 2003 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sunday, January 08, 2006
My Peace
Lord.....
You are my Anchor when the winds of change are blowing hard.....
You are my Calm when everything seems to be shaking.....
You are my Place of Retreat when life is pulling at me.....
You bring.....
Blessed Stillness for my mind,
Tranquility for my emotions,
Deep Peace for my soul.
In You I may quietly rest.
"Great peace have those who love your law, and nothing causes them to stumble."
Psalm 119:165 NKJ
© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf
You are my Anchor when the winds of change are blowing hard.....
You are my Calm when everything seems to be shaking.....
You are my Place of Retreat when life is pulling at me.....
You bring.....
Blessed Stillness for my mind,
Tranquility for my emotions,
Deep Peace for my soul.
In You I may quietly rest.
"Great peace have those who love your law, and nothing causes them to stumble."
Psalm 119:165 NKJ
© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Saturday, January 07, 2006
Opportunities And Challenges
When we have a major challenge
And don't know how to meet it,
Sometimes changing our perspective
Can be a very real benefit.
We shouldn't view it as a problem
Or something we deplore,
But as an opportunity
Which may open up a door.
Opportunity invites one in
And offers bright, new interest.
It becomes a fresh approach
For how our thoughts are processed.
So see your challenge as a chance
To meet with opportunity.
Then smile and set your hand to work
With lively ingenuity!
"I can do all things through Christ Who strengthens me."
Philippians 4:13 NKJ
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
And don't know how to meet it,
Sometimes changing our perspective
Can be a very real benefit.
We shouldn't view it as a problem
Or something we deplore,
But as an opportunity
Which may open up a door.
Opportunity invites one in
And offers bright, new interest.
It becomes a fresh approach
For how our thoughts are processed.
So see your challenge as a chance
To meet with opportunity.
Then smile and set your hand to work
With lively ingenuity!
"I can do all things through Christ Who strengthens me."
Philippians 4:13 NKJ
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Friday, January 06, 2006
God's Healing Power
How gracious and caring is our God.......
I was sitting at my table one day, writing. For no particular reason I glanced down at my wrist and, to my great surprise and horror, saw a lump there. For a moment I just sat there, stunned, trying to assimilate all the ramifications of what that could mean. The lump was about the size of a large pea and stuck up very noticeably on top of my hand right where it bends into the wrist. I felt the lump, and it was hard.
At that time I was a pianist in a large church with many services. I knew this situation could mean having to take time off from playing, and I didn't want to do that because I totally loved worshipping the Lord at the piano. Also I had a family to care for. I was a busy person. I cried out to the Lord, "Lord, I don't have time for this!!!" That was all I did right at that moment, and then went back to my writing.
As I look back, it was strange. I didn't even pray about the situation. I just cried out to the Lord.... and He heard my cry. At that point He touched me in an unusual way, because I totally forgot the whole experience..... until one day several months later. All of a sudden, I remembered it. Quickly I looked down at my wrist, and the lump was gone! God had totally healed my wrist. And He took away even the thoughts or anxiety I might have had in this situation. I don't know when He healed me, but the work was complete. My wrist was all smooth-looking once again.
We truly have an awesome God!
"Because Your lovingkindness is better than life, my lips shall praise You. Thus I will bless You while I live; I will lift up my hands in Your name."
Psalm 63:3-4 NKJ
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
I was sitting at my table one day, writing. For no particular reason I glanced down at my wrist and, to my great surprise and horror, saw a lump there. For a moment I just sat there, stunned, trying to assimilate all the ramifications of what that could mean. The lump was about the size of a large pea and stuck up very noticeably on top of my hand right where it bends into the wrist. I felt the lump, and it was hard.
At that time I was a pianist in a large church with many services. I knew this situation could mean having to take time off from playing, and I didn't want to do that because I totally loved worshipping the Lord at the piano. Also I had a family to care for. I was a busy person. I cried out to the Lord, "Lord, I don't have time for this!!!" That was all I did right at that moment, and then went back to my writing.
As I look back, it was strange. I didn't even pray about the situation. I just cried out to the Lord.... and He heard my cry. At that point He touched me in an unusual way, because I totally forgot the whole experience..... until one day several months later. All of a sudden, I remembered it. Quickly I looked down at my wrist, and the lump was gone! God had totally healed my wrist. And He took away even the thoughts or anxiety I might have had in this situation. I don't know when He healed me, but the work was complete. My wrist was all smooth-looking once again.
We truly have an awesome God!
"Because Your lovingkindness is better than life, my lips shall praise You. Thus I will bless You while I live; I will lift up my hands in Your name."
Psalm 63:3-4 NKJ
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Thursday, January 05, 2006
Early Lessons
A little boy went off to school
To learn about the Golden Rule.
The book he read was "Pilgrim's Progress".
Bible truths he could express.
The Ten Commandments then were taught
And students learned them as they ought.
Godly standards were the measure.
And classrooms then were full of "treasure".
The freedoms which those children had
Have been denied the current grad...
The culture that we have today
Has made bad choice and lost it's way.
America, you've come too far
Away from who you really are.
Godly men who fled oppression
Founded you through intercession.
Faith in God will heal our nation
And restore our firm foundation.
If in God we trust and wait,
Prayer and faith will keep us great.
"Through God we will do valiantly, for it is He Who shall tread down our enemies."
Psalm 60:12 NKJ
© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf
To learn about the Golden Rule.
The book he read was "Pilgrim's Progress".
Bible truths he could express.
The Ten Commandments then were taught
And students learned them as they ought.
Godly standards were the measure.
And classrooms then were full of "treasure".
The freedoms which those children had
Have been denied the current grad...
The culture that we have today
Has made bad choice and lost it's way.
America, you've come too far
Away from who you really are.
Godly men who fled oppression
Founded you through intercession.
Faith in God will heal our nation
And restore our firm foundation.
If in God we trust and wait,
Prayer and faith will keep us great.
"Through God we will do valiantly, for it is He Who shall tread down our enemies."
Psalm 60:12 NKJ
© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Wednesday, January 04, 2006
Beautiful Hands
The work of one's hands often shows the love of one's heart.....
I have been blessed to come to know two ladies who I think have very beautiful hearts... as evidenced by the work of their hands.
These two ladies, Mabel and Hazel, had been working in a church center which ministered to and helped poor people. When the church center closed down they, along with a few other ladies (Zelda, Linda, Helen, Lois, Gloria and Betty), still had a desire to do something for those who needed help. So they decided to make quilts. One day a week they would gather together at Mabel's home, and would cut and sew and hand-tie quilts. Usually there were four or five ladies working, but toward the end there were only three. When the quilts were finished they would give them to people in need.
This may not sound like a very big thing to some. But because they were willing to do this project over a long period of time, the results were extraordinary. Over a period of six years these lovely ladies made 998 quilts and gave all of them away.
Mabel commented that they only quit their project because it began to cause pain in their fingers to pin and sew the quilts. So they have now given the quilt tops that weren't yet completed to a group who is making lap robes for the mentally ill.
What started out as a small thing amounted to MUCH.... simply because they were faithful to continue on. What an inspiration!
"She extends her hand to the poor, yes, she reaches out her hands to the needy."
Proverbs 31:20 NKJ
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
I have been blessed to come to know two ladies who I think have very beautiful hearts... as evidenced by the work of their hands.
These two ladies, Mabel and Hazel, had been working in a church center which ministered to and helped poor people. When the church center closed down they, along with a few other ladies (Zelda, Linda, Helen, Lois, Gloria and Betty), still had a desire to do something for those who needed help. So they decided to make quilts. One day a week they would gather together at Mabel's home, and would cut and sew and hand-tie quilts. Usually there were four or five ladies working, but toward the end there were only three. When the quilts were finished they would give them to people in need.
This may not sound like a very big thing to some. But because they were willing to do this project over a long period of time, the results were extraordinary. Over a period of six years these lovely ladies made 998 quilts and gave all of them away.
Mabel commented that they only quit their project because it began to cause pain in their fingers to pin and sew the quilts. So they have now given the quilt tops that weren't yet completed to a group who is making lap robes for the mentally ill.
What started out as a small thing amounted to MUCH.... simply because they were faithful to continue on. What an inspiration!
"She extends her hand to the poor, yes, she reaches out her hands to the needy."
Proverbs 31:20 NKJ
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Tuesday, January 03, 2006
Winter's Blessing
In the still of winter
As the earth has rest from labor,
I ponder what the year will bring
As spring begins to stir.
The quiet hush of snowfall,
As it wraps my world in white,
Speaks peace into my spirit,
Does rest and pause invite.....
.....To reflect on Christ my Lord
And blessings given throughout the year,
And then to wait for Him to speak
And the new year's promise to appear.
Gentle snowflakes - winter wonder
Blanketing and covering all.....
A precious time to seek His purpose.....
Even as snow, let manna fall.....
"Show me Your ways, O Lord; teach me Your paths.....
On You I wait all the day."
Psalm 25:4, 5b NKJ
© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf
As the earth has rest from labor,
I ponder what the year will bring
As spring begins to stir.
The quiet hush of snowfall,
As it wraps my world in white,
Speaks peace into my spirit,
Does rest and pause invite.....
.....To reflect on Christ my Lord
And blessings given throughout the year,
And then to wait for Him to speak
And the new year's promise to appear.
Gentle snowflakes - winter wonder
Blanketing and covering all.....
A precious time to seek His purpose.....
Even as snow, let manna fall.....
"Show me Your ways, O Lord; teach me Your paths.....
On You I wait all the day."
Psalm 25:4, 5b NKJ
© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Monday, January 02, 2006
Wisdom
Wisdom is a rich adornment
A lovely gift for sure,
And is found in full abundance
In God's Word so pure.
Wisdom is God's covering
To help us through each day,
Given to guide and guard us
Lest our footsteps go astray.
He spills it out around us
That we might careful be.
For as we seek to know His ways,
This gift will keep us free.
Long life and peace and happiness
Will follow all our days.
Health and strength and confidence
Will accompany our ways.
Happy is he who gathers it
And collects it in large measure,
Who savors the gold and silver in it.
For He will have found treasure.
"If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, Who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him."
James 1:5 NKJ
"The wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy."
James 3:17 NKJ
© 2003 Arlene Schwartzkopf
A lovely gift for sure,
And is found in full abundance
In God's Word so pure.
Wisdom is God's covering
To help us through each day,
Given to guide and guard us
Lest our footsteps go astray.
He spills it out around us
That we might careful be.
For as we seek to know His ways,
This gift will keep us free.
Long life and peace and happiness
Will follow all our days.
Health and strength and confidence
Will accompany our ways.
Happy is he who gathers it
And collects it in large measure,
Who savors the gold and silver in it.
For He will have found treasure.
"If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, Who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him."
James 1:5 NKJ
"The wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy."
James 3:17 NKJ
© 2003 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sunday, January 01, 2006
Happy New Year
A FRESH PERSPECTIVE
A few times over the years I have started to keep a diary. But each time, after awhile, I would lose interest and begin to skip days..... and finally give up and stop writing.
Lately I have been thinking about this. If a book were to be written of my life, including everything I have ever done, what would it speak to others?
First of all, I would want the pages to be filled with wisdom. I would want my life story to hold lessons of value... to leave a Godly heritage for others. I would want the pages to be filled with many good things and be a written record of beauty and worth... something that would become an encouragement to others. I would want others to find Jesus because of the witness of my life.
To picture my life in writing gives fresh new perspective to everything I do. I want my life to really count! As I serve the Living God I have opportunity to leave a good heritage. Perhaps by this the lives of my children, or grandchildren, or family, or friends or neighbors might be enriched and blessed. How sad it would be if my life had not "touched" someone else's life or had no positive impact on those who know me.....
"Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven."
Matthew 5:16 NKJ
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
A few times over the years I have started to keep a diary. But each time, after awhile, I would lose interest and begin to skip days..... and finally give up and stop writing.
Lately I have been thinking about this. If a book were to be written of my life, including everything I have ever done, what would it speak to others?
First of all, I would want the pages to be filled with wisdom. I would want my life story to hold lessons of value... to leave a Godly heritage for others. I would want the pages to be filled with many good things and be a written record of beauty and worth... something that would become an encouragement to others. I would want others to find Jesus because of the witness of my life.
To picture my life in writing gives fresh new perspective to everything I do. I want my life to really count! As I serve the Living God I have opportunity to leave a good heritage. Perhaps by this the lives of my children, or grandchildren, or family, or friends or neighbors might be enriched and blessed. How sad it would be if my life had not "touched" someone else's life or had no positive impact on those who know me.....
"Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven."
Matthew 5:16 NKJ
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
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