Entering within the veil,
Drawing very close to You...
I find peace and new life there
Each day my spirit to renew.
In Your inner chambers, Lord,
Is sweet communion... rich and rare.
Time and space have no import...
Of You alone I am aware.
What awesome joy to hear Your voice
And sense Your Holy Spirit hovering.
What blessed peace is found within
Your presence and Your covering.
This sweet refreshing that You bring
Has changed my life from day to day.
What more wondrous place to be
And what more blessed place to stay.
"How lovely is Your tabernacle, O Lord of hosts! My soul longs, yes, even faints for the courts of the Lord; My heart and my flesh cry out for the living God."
Psalm 84:2 NKJ
© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Friday, March 31, 2006
Thursday, March 30, 2006
The Ant and The Bee
The ant was so busy
And worked all day long
To gather his food,
Though he was not strong.
Then he saw a bee
Who was flying about
From flower to flower
Sweet nectar to scout.
Ant
"What are you doing?"
He said to the bee.
Bee
"Searching for nectar
To take home with me."
"I fly to my beehive
Where honey we make,
For people like honey
On bread and in cake!"
The ant thought it over
But didn't know why
A bee would make honey
For PEOPLE to try.
Ant
"I take my food
From crumbs people LEAVE!
That you make them honey
Is hard to believe!"
Bee
"God made me a bee,
For He had a plan
That I should make honey
As good food for man."
"So I work hard all day
From dawn until eve.
For me it is better
To give than receive."
"And remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He said, 'It is more blessed to give than to receive.'"
Acts 20:35b NKJ
© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf
And worked all day long
To gather his food,
Though he was not strong.
Then he saw a bee
Who was flying about
From flower to flower
Sweet nectar to scout.
Ant
"What are you doing?"
He said to the bee.
Bee
"Searching for nectar
To take home with me."
"I fly to my beehive
Where honey we make,
For people like honey
On bread and in cake!"
The ant thought it over
But didn't know why
A bee would make honey
For PEOPLE to try.
Ant
"I take my food
From crumbs people LEAVE!
That you make them honey
Is hard to believe!"
Bee
"God made me a bee,
For He had a plan
That I should make honey
As good food for man."
"So I work hard all day
From dawn until eve.
For me it is better
To give than receive."
"And remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He said, 'It is more blessed to give than to receive.'"
Acts 20:35b NKJ
© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Wednesday, March 29, 2006
Thoughts About Clay
Clay does not try to shape itself.
Clay has no thought for the morrow..... it is not anxious..... it rests.
Clay does not strive with it's Maker.
True clay is yielded and ready..... and waits.
True clay desires to be in the realm of God's plan, not it's own plan.
True clay is comfortable in God's hand, even knowing that His shaping of a vessel may sometimes be uncomfortable.
True clay will not question God's purpose..... it won't tell God what kind of vessel it wants to be.
True clay will rejoice in service.
"But now, O Lord, You are our Father; we are the clay,
and You our potter; and all we are the work of Your hand."
Isaiah 64:9 NKJ
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Clay has no thought for the morrow..... it is not anxious..... it rests.
Clay does not strive with it's Maker.
True clay is yielded and ready..... and waits.
True clay desires to be in the realm of God's plan, not it's own plan.
True clay is comfortable in God's hand, even knowing that His shaping of a vessel may sometimes be uncomfortable.
True clay will not question God's purpose..... it won't tell God what kind of vessel it wants to be.
True clay will rejoice in service.
"But now, O Lord, You are our Father; we are the clay,
and You our potter; and all we are the work of Your hand."
Isaiah 64:9 NKJ
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Tuesday, March 28, 2006
The Potter's Wheel
You are the potter and I am the clay.
By Your loving hands, make of me as You may.
Mold me and shape me and make me to be
A vessel that's worthy of service to Thee.
If by adversity I should be broken,
Let no negativity by me be spoken.
But let me be yielded as I face the test,
Knowing You'll rebuild me. In that I will rest.
Your wheel was the place of beginning for me.
It was there as mere clay that I learned to "see"...
And now I will wait should Your wheel again turn,
For I'll be made new, and from You I will learn.
"But now, O Lord, You are our Father; we are the clay, and You our potter; and all we are the work of your hand."
Isaiah 64:8 NKJ
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
By Your loving hands, make of me as You may.
Mold me and shape me and make me to be
A vessel that's worthy of service to Thee.
If by adversity I should be broken,
Let no negativity by me be spoken.
But let me be yielded as I face the test,
Knowing You'll rebuild me. In that I will rest.
Your wheel was the place of beginning for me.
It was there as mere clay that I learned to "see"...
And now I will wait should Your wheel again turn,
For I'll be made new, and from You I will learn.
"But now, O Lord, You are our Father; we are the clay, and You our potter; and all we are the work of your hand."
Isaiah 64:8 NKJ
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Monday, March 27, 2006
Morning's Promise
As I drink in the freshness
of the morning.....
And see God's creation all
around me.....
I am energized
And renewed in my spirit.
In Him
Opportunity is limitless.....
Possibility stands waiting.....
Promise is given.....
Each day is His special gift,
And I am refreshed.
"The Lord's mercies are new every morning; great Is Your faithfulness.
' The Lord is my portion,' says my soul. ' Therefore I hope in Him!' "
Lamentations 3:23-24 NKJ
© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf
of the morning.....
And see God's creation all
around me.....
I am energized
And renewed in my spirit.
In Him
Opportunity is limitless.....
Possibility stands waiting.....
Promise is given.....
Each day is His special gift,
And I am refreshed.
"The Lord's mercies are new every morning; great Is Your faithfulness.
' The Lord is my portion,' says my soul. ' Therefore I hope in Him!' "
Lamentations 3:23-24 NKJ
© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sunday, March 26, 2006
A Window Story
A Children's Poem
"Little birdie on a limb,
I see your nest outside my window.
I watched you as you built it there
With grass and twigs you found below.
I saw you sitting on the nest,
Swaying gently in the breeze.
Then I saw some little eggs
And knew there would be babies.
One day I heard some chirping sounds
And looked to see what that might be.
Sitting there with mouths wide open,
There they were - your babies three.
I watched you as you came and went.
Back and forth you flew
To bring your babies seeds to eat.
Papa bird was busy, too!
I saw the little babies grow
And loved to hear them sing.
But I knew that one day soon
The babies would take wing.
Little birdie on a limb,
When you leave and fly away,
Maybe you could come again
And sing for me some other day."
© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf
"Little birdie on a limb,
I see your nest outside my window.
I watched you as you built it there
With grass and twigs you found below.
I saw you sitting on the nest,
Swaying gently in the breeze.
Then I saw some little eggs
And knew there would be babies.
One day I heard some chirping sounds
And looked to see what that might be.
Sitting there with mouths wide open,
There they were - your babies three.
I watched you as you came and went.
Back and forth you flew
To bring your babies seeds to eat.
Papa bird was busy, too!
I saw the little babies grow
And loved to hear them sing.
But I knew that one day soon
The babies would take wing.
Little birdie on a limb,
When you leave and fly away,
Maybe you could come again
And sing for me some other day."
© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Saturday, March 25, 2006
A Prayerful Call
Our nation needs to bow it's head
And bend upon it's prideful knee
To humbly show it's gratitude
For freedom and prosperity.
For God has kept His hand upon us,
Watching over us by night,
Honoring the cries of those
Who prayerfully stand for what is right.
Today we call upon His name,
Repenting of our spot and sin,
Asking Him to heal our nation,
Restoring righteousness within.
"If My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land."
II Chronicles 7:14 NKJ
© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf
And bend upon it's prideful knee
To humbly show it's gratitude
For freedom and prosperity.
For God has kept His hand upon us,
Watching over us by night,
Honoring the cries of those
Who prayerfully stand for what is right.
Today we call upon His name,
Repenting of our spot and sin,
Asking Him to heal our nation,
Restoring righteousness within.
"If My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land."
II Chronicles 7:14 NKJ
© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Friday, March 24, 2006
Seeing Through His Eyes
When I rush I miss too much,
And then don't see His special touch.
Taking time to seek His "view"
Makes quick perceptions rich and new.
For what I see in just a glance
The Lord would in my sight enhance.
If I give Him full attention,
He will show me His dimension.
What a blessing then to see
The beauty that He shows to me.
For always I will find surprise
When I see as through His eyes.
"Come and see the works of God; He is awesome in His doing toward the sons of men"
Psalm 66:5 NKJ
"Open my eyes, that I may see wondrous things from Your law."
Psalm 119:18 NKJ
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
And then don't see His special touch.
Taking time to seek His "view"
Makes quick perceptions rich and new.
For what I see in just a glance
The Lord would in my sight enhance.
If I give Him full attention,
He will show me His dimension.
What a blessing then to see
The beauty that He shows to me.
For always I will find surprise
When I see as through His eyes.
"Come and see the works of God; He is awesome in His doing toward the sons of men"
Psalm 66:5 NKJ
"Open my eyes, that I may see wondrous things from Your law."
Psalm 119:18 NKJ
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Thursday, March 23, 2006
Times Of Refreshing
Lord, Your presence is lovely.....
and very soothing..... a place set apart.
It is like sitting by pools of water.....
where I can reflect on Your goodness and find
deep peace and quietness of spirit.
It is as an oasis, where I may find rest
from the "hurry and scurry" of everyday life.
Your beauty is revealed to me in these times,
and I am changed within. I want to linger there,
for nothing can compare to these moments with You.
"He leads me beside the still waters. He restores my soul....."
Psalm 23:2-3 NKJ
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
and very soothing..... a place set apart.
It is like sitting by pools of water.....
where I can reflect on Your goodness and find
deep peace and quietness of spirit.
It is as an oasis, where I may find rest
from the "hurry and scurry" of everyday life.
Your beauty is revealed to me in these times,
and I am changed within. I want to linger there,
for nothing can compare to these moments with You.
"He leads me beside the still waters. He restores my soul....."
Psalm 23:2-3 NKJ
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Wednesday, March 22, 2006
The Hem Of His Garment
I saw a woman, hurting so much.
She really needed a healing touch.
I could sense her tears and feel her pain.
Revealed in her face were weariness and strain.
She sat and she read in her Bible that day,
Which certainly is the very best way
To find strength and courage for every task.
For God hears our prayers and all that we ask.
He is the One Who is able to heal
All that our bodies may suffer and feel.
Even though doctors will do all they can,
Her answer is faith in God's healing plan.
"For she said to herself, 'If only I may touch His garment, I shall be made well.' But Jesus turned around, and when He saw her He said, 'Be of good cheer, daughter; your faith has made you well.' And the woman was made well from that hour."
Matthew 9:21-22 NKJ
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
She really needed a healing touch.
I could sense her tears and feel her pain.
Revealed in her face were weariness and strain.
She sat and she read in her Bible that day,
Which certainly is the very best way
To find strength and courage for every task.
For God hears our prayers and all that we ask.
He is the One Who is able to heal
All that our bodies may suffer and feel.
Even though doctors will do all they can,
Her answer is faith in God's healing plan.
"For she said to herself, 'If only I may touch His garment, I shall be made well.' But Jesus turned around, and when He saw her He said, 'Be of good cheer, daughter; your faith has made you well.' And the woman was made well from that hour."
Matthew 9:21-22 NKJ
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Tuesday, March 21, 2006
A Heart Of Love
A Heart Of Love.....
Speaks gently,
Sees clearly,
Listens, and is able to hear.
A Heart Of Love.....
Is not weak, but strong,
Does not fear, but is quietly confident,
Gives, without expecting return.
A Heart Of Love.....
Forgives..... and is free,
Shows mercy,
Is patient and forbearing.
A Heart Of Love
Is joyous,
Has peace, and
Is very full of Jesus.
"Love..... bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things,
endures all things. Love never fails."
I Corinthians 13:7-8 NKJ
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Speaks gently,
Sees clearly,
Listens, and is able to hear.
A Heart Of Love.....
Is not weak, but strong,
Does not fear, but is quietly confident,
Gives, without expecting return.
A Heart Of Love.....
Forgives..... and is free,
Shows mercy,
Is patient and forbearing.
A Heart Of Love
Is joyous,
Has peace, and
Is very full of Jesus.
"Love..... bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things,
endures all things. Love never fails."
I Corinthians 13:7-8 NKJ
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Monday, March 20, 2006
Springtime
As Winter wearies and falls asleep
And Springtime warms the cold, damp earth,
It seems creation starts to smile,
And everywhere we see its birth.
Suddenly poking through the soil
Are tiny shoots and tender plants.
Leaves and blossom on the trees
Are making happy new appearance!
Once again we are reminded
Of God's love and giving hand.
For only He could form such beauty.
Long ago springtime was planned.
"Praise the Lord!
Praise God in His sanctuary;
Praise Him in His mighty firmament!
Praise Him for His mighty acts;
Praise Him according to His excellent greatness!"
Psalm 150:1-2 NKJ
© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf
And Springtime warms the cold, damp earth,
It seems creation starts to smile,
And everywhere we see its birth.
Suddenly poking through the soil
Are tiny shoots and tender plants.
Leaves and blossom on the trees
Are making happy new appearance!
Once again we are reminded
Of God's love and giving hand.
For only He could form such beauty.
Long ago springtime was planned.
"Praise the Lord!
Praise God in His sanctuary;
Praise Him in His mighty firmament!
Praise Him for His mighty acts;
Praise Him according to His excellent greatness!"
Psalm 150:1-2 NKJ
© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sunday, March 19, 2006
Comedy Of Errors
As my children were growing up, always I was blessed by the way my son responded whenever I asked him to do something. One of his daily duties was to take the garbage and waste paper out for me, and he was really good about doing it.
One evening we had Kentucky Friend Chicken for dinner, and as I was finishing up the dishes I called out to him that there was some garbage to take out. I just bagged it up and then left the bag in the sink so that the pets wouldn't get into it. We had found that this system worked just fine. He called back to me, "I'll get it, Mom". Because he was consistent in following through, I just didn't give it another thought, and went on to something else in another room.
Well, this one time he forgot to take it out. And I didn't notice that fact. When I got up the following morning, it seems that Kitty Cat had decided she would like some chicken too. I could not believe what I was looking at when I walked into the kitchen. She had opened the bag and spread it's contents out in the sink and from one end of the counter to the other.
I could have gotten mad, but actually it was kind of humorous. My son "goofed" this one time, and Kitty Cat had a wonderful time. But I had to rush to clean up the mess so that I could cook breakfast and get my children to school on time. I bagged up the mess, cleaned up the counter with bleach and then set about hurrying to make breakfast.
When my son came in, I told him what had happened and that I had now set the bag of garbage by the back door. He said, "I'm sorry, Mom. I'll get it out." We ate and rushed off to school, just barely getting there on time.
I drove back home, and when I came into the house was totally amazed all over again. My son had again forgotten, and now Scruffy, (our part-mutt, part Mini-Schnauzer), had dined on the chicken. This time it was strung out from one end of the kitchen to the other. But he was a little "higher class" than Kitty Cat. He had taken what was left of the scraps into the dining room and "dined" under the dining room table. At first I just stood there and stared at the size of the problem. I didn't think there was that much garbage left in the bag! And then I began to laugh.....
The joke was on me, and the pets had definitely had a good morning. So rather than get all upset, I just cleaned up the mess. But I did tease my son about it. He didn't forget after that.
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
One evening we had Kentucky Friend Chicken for dinner, and as I was finishing up the dishes I called out to him that there was some garbage to take out. I just bagged it up and then left the bag in the sink so that the pets wouldn't get into it. We had found that this system worked just fine. He called back to me, "I'll get it, Mom". Because he was consistent in following through, I just didn't give it another thought, and went on to something else in another room.
Well, this one time he forgot to take it out. And I didn't notice that fact. When I got up the following morning, it seems that Kitty Cat had decided she would like some chicken too. I could not believe what I was looking at when I walked into the kitchen. She had opened the bag and spread it's contents out in the sink and from one end of the counter to the other.
I could have gotten mad, but actually it was kind of humorous. My son "goofed" this one time, and Kitty Cat had a wonderful time. But I had to rush to clean up the mess so that I could cook breakfast and get my children to school on time. I bagged up the mess, cleaned up the counter with bleach and then set about hurrying to make breakfast.
When my son came in, I told him what had happened and that I had now set the bag of garbage by the back door. He said, "I'm sorry, Mom. I'll get it out." We ate and rushed off to school, just barely getting there on time.
I drove back home, and when I came into the house was totally amazed all over again. My son had again forgotten, and now Scruffy, (our part-mutt, part Mini-Schnauzer), had dined on the chicken. This time it was strung out from one end of the kitchen to the other. But he was a little "higher class" than Kitty Cat. He had taken what was left of the scraps into the dining room and "dined" under the dining room table. At first I just stood there and stared at the size of the problem. I didn't think there was that much garbage left in the bag! And then I began to laugh.....
The joke was on me, and the pets had definitely had a good morning. So rather than get all upset, I just cleaned up the mess. But I did tease my son about it. He didn't forget after that.
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Saturday, March 18, 2006
Two Small Steaks
Years ago I had a wonderful friend who was very skilled at managing her food budget. She and her husband had two junior high age children, and at the time were trying to buy a home, so she had to stretch her food dollar as far as possible.
She wanted her family to have good nutrition, but she didn't have anything extra to spend on food. So this is what she did. She laid out a menu plan for a whole month at a time. She studied her recipes and wrote down what she was going to cook each day. Then the family would go shopping and buy everything needed for that month except the fresh vegetables and fruits. She was very diligent to follow her food plan, because there wasn't any extra money in the budget at that time.
One time she really desired to have steak, but she knew they couldn't afford it. Still she did want it, so she bought two steaks, thinking that if she cut them in half each person could have a small piece to eat. That evening she cooked dinner and set the platter with the two steaks, cut in half to make four pieces, on the table along with the rest of the dinner. The family sat down to eat. But first they joined hands and thanked God for His provision for them. When they were through praying and opened their eyes, they saw four full-sized steaks on the platter. God had multiplied the size of the steaks!
What an awesome God we have! He knew the desire of their hearts, and He lovingly blessed them.
"Because Your lovingkindness is better than life, my lips shall praise You. Thus will I bless You while I live: I will lift up my hands in Your name. My soul shall be satisfied as with marrow and fatness, and my mouth shall praise You with joyful lips."
Psalm 63:3-5 NKJ
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
She wanted her family to have good nutrition, but she didn't have anything extra to spend on food. So this is what she did. She laid out a menu plan for a whole month at a time. She studied her recipes and wrote down what she was going to cook each day. Then the family would go shopping and buy everything needed for that month except the fresh vegetables and fruits. She was very diligent to follow her food plan, because there wasn't any extra money in the budget at that time.
One time she really desired to have steak, but she knew they couldn't afford it. Still she did want it, so she bought two steaks, thinking that if she cut them in half each person could have a small piece to eat. That evening she cooked dinner and set the platter with the two steaks, cut in half to make four pieces, on the table along with the rest of the dinner. The family sat down to eat. But first they joined hands and thanked God for His provision for them. When they were through praying and opened their eyes, they saw four full-sized steaks on the platter. God had multiplied the size of the steaks!
What an awesome God we have! He knew the desire of their hearts, and He lovingly blessed them.
"Because Your lovingkindness is better than life, my lips shall praise You. Thus will I bless You while I live: I will lift up my hands in Your name. My soul shall be satisfied as with marrow and fatness, and my mouth shall praise You with joyful lips."
Psalm 63:3-5 NKJ
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Friday, March 17, 2006
A Special Blessing
May He lift you up this day,
Guide your path and light your way.
May His angels watch o'er you
To keep you safe in all you do.
May His Spirit hover near
Your needs to meet and prayers to hear.
May He fill your heart with song
And give you blessing all day long.
"The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make His face shine upon you, and be gracious to you; the Lord lift up His countenance upon you, and give you peace."
Numbers 6:24-26 NKJ
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Guide your path and light your way.
May His angels watch o'er you
To keep you safe in all you do.
May His Spirit hover near
Your needs to meet and prayers to hear.
May He fill your heart with song
And give you blessing all day long.
"The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make His face shine upon you, and be gracious to you; the Lord lift up His countenance upon you, and give you peace."
Numbers 6:24-26 NKJ
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Thursday, March 16, 2006
Light In The Darkness
The light of God resides in His people. When light shines into the darkness, truth and love go forth where only emptiness has been. His light brings hope. His light brings change.
When a child of God speaks, it may become the only ray of hope in someone's life. It may even be the difference between life and death for that person.
When a child of God lets his light shine, it may be an example to another who is struggling to find a pattern for life.
Being light in a darkened world is a very great privilege, for receiving His light is to receive His very best.
"You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven."
Matthew 5:14-16 NKJ
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
When a child of God speaks, it may become the only ray of hope in someone's life. It may even be the difference between life and death for that person.
When a child of God lets his light shine, it may be an example to another who is struggling to find a pattern for life.
Being light in a darkened world is a very great privilege, for receiving His light is to receive His very best.
"You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven."
Matthew 5:14-16 NKJ
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Wednesday, March 15, 2006
His Love
I stood at the window looking down at the beach. And all was still except for the lapping of the waves. It was early in the morning, and the sand was smooth from the washing of the waves through the night.
As I watched, a family with children came walking down the beach. The children had sticks in their hands and were writing in the sand and digging holes.
After the family passed by, the sand looked "messy". There were holes and debris everywhere. The serenity I had seen was no longer there.
Then a big wave came in and washed over the whole scene. As the water receded, once again the sand appeared smooth and untouched..... as though nothing had happened. The stillness and beauty were there again.
And God spoke..... "My love is like that....."
It continually washes and restores .....
Even as the waves washing on the beach.....
"For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor princi- palities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord."
Romans 8:38-39 NKJ
© 2003 Arlene Schwartzkopf
As I watched, a family with children came walking down the beach. The children had sticks in their hands and were writing in the sand and digging holes.
After the family passed by, the sand looked "messy". There were holes and debris everywhere. The serenity I had seen was no longer there.
Then a big wave came in and washed over the whole scene. As the water receded, once again the sand appeared smooth and untouched..... as though nothing had happened. The stillness and beauty were there again.
And God spoke..... "My love is like that....."
It continually washes and restores .....
Even as the waves washing on the beach.....
"For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor princi- palities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord."
Romans 8:38-39 NKJ
© 2003 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Tuesday, March 14, 2006
He Is There
When your heart is aching
And tired from wear and tear,
When clouds of darkness hover
Remember - Jesus cares.
Nothing that is in us
Is beyond His tender touch.
He understands our every need
And loves us all so much.
Though the load you carry
Sometimes seems too much to bear,
He will lift that burden from you.
Remember - He is there.
He will fill your mouth with laughter
And make your heart to sing,
Will light your path and guide your way,
A happy smile bring.
If you will only trust Him
Your burdens He will bear.
His joy will be your portion.
Nothing shall compare.
For He is there.
"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
©2004 Arlene Schwartzkopf
And tired from wear and tear,
When clouds of darkness hover
Remember - Jesus cares.
Nothing that is in us
Is beyond His tender touch.
He understands our every need
And loves us all so much.
Though the load you carry
Sometimes seems too much to bear,
He will lift that burden from you.
Remember - He is there.
He will fill your mouth with laughter
And make your heart to sing,
Will light your path and guide your way,
A happy smile bring.
If you will only trust Him
Your burdens He will bear.
His joy will be your portion.
Nothing shall compare.
For He is there.
"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
©2004 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Monday, March 13, 2006
This Tiny Boy
Not very old was this little boy...
Just two and a half, but oh, what a joy!
He was playing outside when he found a plum.
He smiled very brightly. His eyes said, "Yum-yum".
We told him that this was the wrong kind.
These were the kind that birds like to find.
He threw up his arms with a plum in each hand,
Calling, "Here, birdie, birdie," in child-like command.
But the birds were so high in the trees that day,
They did not hear... they were too far away.
His little arms got tired and dropped to his side.
He said, "Can't reach. Can't reach"... though he tried.
How touching to see this sweet little boy
With his arms lifted up and his face filled with joy.
He already knew about how birds could fly,
But then he was sad that they flew so high.
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Just two and a half, but oh, what a joy!
He was playing outside when he found a plum.
He smiled very brightly. His eyes said, "Yum-yum".
We told him that this was the wrong kind.
These were the kind that birds like to find.
He threw up his arms with a plum in each hand,
Calling, "Here, birdie, birdie," in child-like command.
But the birds were so high in the trees that day,
They did not hear... they were too far away.
His little arms got tired and dropped to his side.
He said, "Can't reach. Can't reach"... though he tried.
How touching to see this sweet little boy
With his arms lifted up and his face filled with joy.
He already knew about how birds could fly,
But then he was sad that they flew so high.
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sunday, March 12, 2006
The Greatest Love
O Father God....from beginning of time
You had a plan...a flawless design.
Not in a lifetime, not in a day
Could we comprehend just how much You would pay.
Your love is so great that You sacrificed all
So we might be saved from effects of "the fall".
How great Your compassion, Your mercy and grace
...That You should love us and our sins erase.
You didn't forsake us or cast us away,
But provided redemption...our debts to repay.
O Father God, Your mercy and grace
Flow freely and richly our lives to embrace.
We are wrapped in Your love and eagerly wait
For the time when we see You and enter Your gate.
What blessing and honor and joy that will be...
To be in Your presence eternally.
"For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present
nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other
created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord."
Romans 8:38-39 NKJ
© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf
You had a plan...a flawless design.
Not in a lifetime, not in a day
Could we comprehend just how much You would pay.
Your love is so great that You sacrificed all
So we might be saved from effects of "the fall".
How great Your compassion, Your mercy and grace
...That You should love us and our sins erase.
You didn't forsake us or cast us away,
But provided redemption...our debts to repay.
O Father God, Your mercy and grace
Flow freely and richly our lives to embrace.
We are wrapped in Your love and eagerly wait
For the time when we see You and enter Your gate.
What blessing and honor and joy that will be...
To be in Your presence eternally.
"For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present
nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other
created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord."
Romans 8:38-39 NKJ
© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Saturday, March 11, 2006
Plain Brown Wrappers
Flower bulbs all look more or less alike..... plain brown. They just aren't particularly attractive. But hidden inside each bulb is a special identity which will cause it to be a certain color or have a certain fragrance.
When planted the bulbs will sprout and make an appearance above ground, soon becoming beautiful flowers and bringing forth fragrance. Then, as the flowers fade, if the bulbs are left in the ground, they will multiply, and the
following year there will be more bulbs and more flowers.
And so it is in life. As we are "planted", the flower that is within us will come forth and bloom. We have the
opportunity to bloom in many ways and many places. As the Lord leads us, we may bloom in our family, our
workplace, our neighborhood, our church..... wherever we are planted.
Those around us may only see the plain brown wrapper, but as we serve Him, fragrance will come forth, and He
will multiply our efforts.
Our wonderful God can take something very plain-looking and turn it into a thing of great beauty.....
"Let the beauty of the Lord our God be upon us,
And establish the work of our hands for us..."
Psalm 90:17 NKJ
© 2004 Arlene Schwartzkopf
When planted the bulbs will sprout and make an appearance above ground, soon becoming beautiful flowers and bringing forth fragrance. Then, as the flowers fade, if the bulbs are left in the ground, they will multiply, and the
following year there will be more bulbs and more flowers.
And so it is in life. As we are "planted", the flower that is within us will come forth and bloom. We have the
opportunity to bloom in many ways and many places. As the Lord leads us, we may bloom in our family, our
workplace, our neighborhood, our church..... wherever we are planted.
Those around us may only see the plain brown wrapper, but as we serve Him, fragrance will come forth, and He
will multiply our efforts.
Our wonderful God can take something very plain-looking and turn it into a thing of great beauty.....
"Let the beauty of the Lord our God be upon us,
And establish the work of our hands for us..."
Psalm 90:17 NKJ
© 2004 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Plain Brown Wrappers
Flower bulbs all look more or less alike..... plain brown. They just aren't particularly attractive. But hidden inside each bulb is a special identity which will cause it to be a certain color or have a certain fragrance.
When planted the bulbs will sprout and make an appearance above ground, soon becoming beautiful flowers and bringing forth fragrance. Then, as the flowers fade, if the bulbs are left in the ground, they will multiply, and the
following year there will be more bulbs and more flowers.
And so it is in life. As we are "planted", the flower that is within us will come forth and bloom. We have the
opportunity to bloom in many ways and many places. As the Lord leads us, we may bloom in our family, our
workplace, our neighborhood, our church..... wherever we are planted.
Those around us may only see the plain brown wrapper, but as we serve Him, fragrance will come forth, and He
will multiply our efforts.
Our wonderful God can take something very plain-looking and turn it into a thing of great beauty.....
"Let the beauty of the Lord our God be upon us,
And establish the work of our hands for us..."
Psalm 90:17 NKJ
© 2004 Arlene Schwartzkopf
When planted the bulbs will sprout and make an appearance above ground, soon becoming beautiful flowers and bringing forth fragrance. Then, as the flowers fade, if the bulbs are left in the ground, they will multiply, and the
following year there will be more bulbs and more flowers.
And so it is in life. As we are "planted", the flower that is within us will come forth and bloom. We have the
opportunity to bloom in many ways and many places. As the Lord leads us, we may bloom in our family, our
workplace, our neighborhood, our church..... wherever we are planted.
Those around us may only see the plain brown wrapper, but as we serve Him, fragrance will come forth, and He
will multiply our efforts.
Our wonderful God can take something very plain-looking and turn it into a thing of great beauty.....
"Let the beauty of the Lord our God be upon us,
And establish the work of our hands for us..."
Psalm 90:17 NKJ
© 2004 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Friday, March 10, 2006
I Wish I Had A Puppy
A Children's Poem
I wish I had a puppy.
I think that would be fine!
I could be his very best friend,
And know that he'd be mine!
I could play with him all day
And sometimes take him for a walk.
We would understand each other,
Even though he couldn't talk.
I'm going to ask my Daddy...
Just to find out whether
I could have a little puppy.
We could grow up together!
© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf
I wish I had a puppy.
I think that would be fine!
I could be his very best friend,
And know that he'd be mine!
I could play with him all day
And sometimes take him for a walk.
We would understand each other,
Even though he couldn't talk.
I'm going to ask my Daddy...
Just to find out whether
I could have a little puppy.
We could grow up together!
© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Thursday, March 09, 2006
Spring
A lovely time of year......
When new life seems to appear everywhere.....
A time of new beginnings.
A season of encouragement......
Rich with promise......
A time to grow and spring forth......
A time of transformation and change.
Bright new days......
Of new ideas and color and fragrance and blossoming......
A time which uplifts and cheers one on.
Surely all the seasons are God's gift, but spring may be the best season...
When all things can become new.
A season of new opportunity awaits us......
"Oh, sing to the Lord a new song!
For He has done marvelous things."
Psalm 98:1 NKJ
© 2004 Arlene Schwartzkopf
When new life seems to appear everywhere.....
A time of new beginnings.
A season of encouragement......
Rich with promise......
A time to grow and spring forth......
A time of transformation and change.
Bright new days......
Of new ideas and color and fragrance and blossoming......
A time which uplifts and cheers one on.
Surely all the seasons are God's gift, but spring may be the best season...
When all things can become new.
A season of new opportunity awaits us......
"Oh, sing to the Lord a new song!
For He has done marvelous things."
Psalm 98:1 NKJ
© 2004 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Wednesday, March 08, 2006
The Foot Of The Cross
Any and all may come.....
A place where all are equal......
A place where one can be transparent......
A safe place......
A place of rest for a weary soul......
A place of release for a broken heart.....
A place of comfort for the lonely and the hurting......
A place of redemption from sin and shame......
A new beginning......
THE CROSS
Is our friend......
Is an anchor point in a shaky world......
"Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him, endured the cross, despising the shame, and has set down at the right hand of the throne of God."
Hebrews 12:1-2 NKJ
© 2003 Arlene Schwartzkopf
A place where all are equal......
A place where one can be transparent......
A safe place......
A place of rest for a weary soul......
A place of release for a broken heart.....
A place of comfort for the lonely and the hurting......
A place of redemption from sin and shame......
A new beginning......
THE CROSS
Is our friend......
Is an anchor point in a shaky world......
"Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him, endured the cross, despising the shame, and has set down at the right hand of the throne of God."
Hebrews 12:1-2 NKJ
© 2003 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Tuesday, March 07, 2006
The Sounds of Heaven
A Vision
I saw the sounds (music) of heaven..... iridescent, shimmering.....
The sounds are like "beads" of light..... tiny droplets full of liquid, embodying the life (life-giving presence) of Christ.
I saw "showers" of colored lights in the night sky..... as though handfuls of these little light beads had been thrown forth across the heavens..... first in one direction..... then in another..... almost resembling a color burst in a fireworks display. They were there for a few seconds and then dissolved into a refreshing dew filtering down. The "life" in the beads settled on all. I could feel the effect but could not see it or contain it as it settled.....
Perhaps the angels' wings fan the sprinkles of light beads through the air as their wings create a gentle wind.....
A dimension set apart. It is there all the time, but any touch of harshness will shut it away from our view.
The Spirit woos us..... "Come away, My beloved..... and enter in....."
Stillness.
© 2004 Arlene Schwartzkopf
I saw the sounds (music) of heaven..... iridescent, shimmering.....
The sounds are like "beads" of light..... tiny droplets full of liquid, embodying the life (life-giving presence) of Christ.
I saw "showers" of colored lights in the night sky..... as though handfuls of these little light beads had been thrown forth across the heavens..... first in one direction..... then in another..... almost resembling a color burst in a fireworks display. They were there for a few seconds and then dissolved into a refreshing dew filtering down. The "life" in the beads settled on all. I could feel the effect but could not see it or contain it as it settled.....
Perhaps the angels' wings fan the sprinkles of light beads through the air as their wings create a gentle wind.....
A dimension set apart. It is there all the time, but any touch of harshness will shut it away from our view.
The Spirit woos us..... "Come away, My beloved..... and enter in....."
Stillness.
© 2004 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Monday, March 06, 2006
For The Gardener
In springtime is promise of light-hearted fun
As flowers peek upward and reach for the sun.
The gardener delights as he watches each bloom,
Pulling out weeds so each plant will have room.
He nurtures and waters and carefully tends,
Enjoying his task as his service he lends.
God gives us flowers in lovely array.....
It seems every bloom His love does portray.
The blossoms bring joy and their scent fills the air.
Only God could make flowers.... so many and so rare.
The gardener's pleasure is endless, you see.
As he works with his hands, in his heart there is glee.
The gardener is blessed when his garden is done,
For he has touched God in the flowers..... each one.
"Let the beauty of the Lord our God be upon us,
And establish the work of our hands for us....."
Psalm 90:17 NKJ
© 2004 Arlene Schwartzkopf
As flowers peek upward and reach for the sun.
The gardener delights as he watches each bloom,
Pulling out weeds so each plant will have room.
He nurtures and waters and carefully tends,
Enjoying his task as his service he lends.
God gives us flowers in lovely array.....
It seems every bloom His love does portray.
The blossoms bring joy and their scent fills the air.
Only God could make flowers.... so many and so rare.
The gardener's pleasure is endless, you see.
As he works with his hands, in his heart there is glee.
The gardener is blessed when his garden is done,
For he has touched God in the flowers..... each one.
"Let the beauty of the Lord our God be upon us,
And establish the work of our hands for us....."
Psalm 90:17 NKJ
© 2004 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sunday, March 05, 2006
Spring Smiles
Winter starts to lose its grip
When spring decides to show her face,
For spring just seems to blossom forth
And winter's bleakness to displace.
Cheerfully she starts to show
In twig and shoot, leaf and flower.
All the earth begins to stir
In readiness for spring's bright hour.
Her appearance rushes on
And trees burst forth in glorious bloom.
Her fragrance fills the morning air
With nature's wondrous, sweet perfume.
Rest and slumber were the mode
As winter had its quiet day.
But all the earth will soon awaken,
As spring comes brightly on her way!
"And the earth brought forth grass, the herb that yields seed according to its kind, and the tree that yields fruit, whose seed is in itself according to its kind. And God saw that it was good."
Genesis 1:12 NKJ
© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf
When spring decides to show her face,
For spring just seems to blossom forth
And winter's bleakness to displace.
Cheerfully she starts to show
In twig and shoot, leaf and flower.
All the earth begins to stir
In readiness for spring's bright hour.
Her appearance rushes on
And trees burst forth in glorious bloom.
Her fragrance fills the morning air
With nature's wondrous, sweet perfume.
Rest and slumber were the mode
As winter had its quiet day.
But all the earth will soon awaken,
As spring comes brightly on her way!
"And the earth brought forth grass, the herb that yields seed according to its kind, and the tree that yields fruit, whose seed is in itself according to its kind. And God saw that it was good."
Genesis 1:12 NKJ
© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Saturday, March 04, 2006
The Little Bird Who Flew Too Soon
A Children's Poem
The little bird who wanted to fly
Was really not ready, but wanted to try.
He fluttered his wings, but quickly he found
That he could not fly, and he fell to the ground.
He needed to grow some and strengthen his wings.
Before he could soar he should learn many things.
It isn't a good thing to strike out too soon.
Without good wisdom his life he could ruin.
So he decided that first he would sing.
If he did well, maybe strength it would bring.
He hopped and he sang, yet for flying he yearned.
But only with time little bird skills are learned.
Then one day suddenly he found he could fly.
He flew up excitedly high in the sky.
There were so many places he wanted to see,
So he flew and he flew, 'cause he felt fancy-free.
But he got too tired that very first day.
Even his feathers were blown all a-fray.
He did not think about needing to rest,
And wore himself out in his first flying test.
He simply could not in a hurry grow
And learn all the things that little birds know.
He found he could not on his very first try
Soar to great heights and master the sky.
So he decided that patience was needed
And learning from others, their lessons he heeded.
He would go slower and more careful be.
"This would be better and wiser," said he!
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding..."
Proverbs 3:5 NKJ
2004 Arlene Schwartzkopf
The little bird who wanted to fly
Was really not ready, but wanted to try.
He fluttered his wings, but quickly he found
That he could not fly, and he fell to the ground.
He needed to grow some and strengthen his wings.
Before he could soar he should learn many things.
It isn't a good thing to strike out too soon.
Without good wisdom his life he could ruin.
So he decided that first he would sing.
If he did well, maybe strength it would bring.
He hopped and he sang, yet for flying he yearned.
But only with time little bird skills are learned.
Then one day suddenly he found he could fly.
He flew up excitedly high in the sky.
There were so many places he wanted to see,
So he flew and he flew, 'cause he felt fancy-free.
But he got too tired that very first day.
Even his feathers were blown all a-fray.
He did not think about needing to rest,
And wore himself out in his first flying test.
He simply could not in a hurry grow
And learn all the things that little birds know.
He found he could not on his very first try
Soar to great heights and master the sky.
So he decided that patience was needed
And learning from others, their lessons he heeded.
He would go slower and more careful be.
"This would be better and wiser," said he!
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding..."
Proverbs 3:5 NKJ
2004 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Friday, March 03, 2006
Pure Waters
Oh, Lord.....
You are as a deep, deep well..... which never runs dry.
It is so good to come to Your well and drink.....
Your well is full of treasure..... a place of rich experience..... pure waters given from You..... plentiful and free-flowing.
I am nourished as I drink.....
I find refreshment..... and I am renewed.
In You, Lord, I am made whole..... and I am grateful.
"Whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst. But the water that I give him will become in him a fountain of water springing up into everlasting life."
John 4:14 NKJ
2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf
You are as a deep, deep well..... which never runs dry.
It is so good to come to Your well and drink.....
Your well is full of treasure..... a place of rich experience..... pure waters given from You..... plentiful and free-flowing.
I am nourished as I drink.....
I find refreshment..... and I am renewed.
In You, Lord, I am made whole..... and I am grateful.
"Whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst. But the water that I give him will become in him a fountain of water springing up into everlasting life."
John 4:14 NKJ
2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Thursday, March 02, 2006
The Eyes Of A Child
How blessed is a child
Whose unclouded vision
Sees all of the world
With startling precision.
His words are so simple,
His view is still clear.
Observations he makes
Are pure and sincere.
Lord, help me to see
Through the eyes of a little one,
Whose special perspectives
Are priceless and fun.
"..... Out of the mouth of babes and nursing infants You have perfected praise....."
Matthew 21:16 NKJ
© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Whose unclouded vision
Sees all of the world
With startling precision.
His words are so simple,
His view is still clear.
Observations he makes
Are pure and sincere.
Lord, help me to see
Through the eyes of a little one,
Whose special perspectives
Are priceless and fun.
"..... Out of the mouth of babes and nursing infants You have perfected praise....."
Matthew 21:16 NKJ
© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Wednesday, March 01, 2006
A Humble Heart
Pride is selfish - and very blind.
It puts self first and is not kind.
Ego blurs the way it sees.
It will not bend or try to please.
It always thinks it's way is best.
To be around it is a test!
It's haughtiness will bring one low,
Will problems and contentions sow.
A man of humble spirit hears
And words of wisdom he reveres.
He has learned to quietly wait
And not let pride his way dictate.
He will pray and seek the Lord.
From this he will receive reward.
Much wisdom does his heart embrace...
A humble heart brings honor and grace.
"...Be clothed with humility, for God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble. Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time....."
I Peter 5:5-6 NKJ
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
It puts self first and is not kind.
Ego blurs the way it sees.
It will not bend or try to please.
It always thinks it's way is best.
To be around it is a test!
It's haughtiness will bring one low,
Will problems and contentions sow.
A man of humble spirit hears
And words of wisdom he reveres.
He has learned to quietly wait
And not let pride his way dictate.
He will pray and seek the Lord.
From this he will receive reward.
Much wisdom does his heart embrace...
A humble heart brings honor and grace.
"...Be clothed with humility, for God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble. Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time....."
I Peter 5:5-6 NKJ
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)