Hiding Place

Lord, You are my hiding place,
My shelter from life's storms.
Your covering upon my life
An ark of safety forms.

I will find my strength in You,
For You are my high tower.
You rule and reign in majesty
With glory, might and power.

I find rest and confidence
'Neath the shadow of Your wing.
You give Your angels charge o'er me
And cause my heart to sing.

Always I am "safe" in You
As You guide my steps and days.
You are my refuge and my shield,
"Keeping" me in all my ways.


"He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust."
Psalm 91:1-2 KJV

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Peace

E'en as snowflakes on the ground
Fall so softly without sound,
Peace comes down to quiet me
And gently says, "Be free, be free".

When daily challenge causes stress
Peace is as a soft caress,
Soothing tension, bringing calm,
As a lovely, healing balm.

Peace becomes to me a "buoy",
Filling me with rest and joy...
Peace beyond my comprehension,
A precious "set-apart" dimension.

"And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus."
Philippians 4:7 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Eternity Waits

We do not now just what each day will bring,
But in Jesus is hope... to Him we must cling.
If we walk in faith, then we need not fear.
If He is our Lord, our destiny is clear.

Eternity waits... just one breath away.
There may not be time to speak or to pray.
We may not expect to "go home" very soon,
But it's well to be ready and be in "fine tune".

I had a cold, and it gave me a scare.
I coughed and I choked and I could not get air.
I cried out "Jesus", but couldn't speak more.
I needed His help my breath to restore.

Through this event I became more aware
Of how quickly we're gone and arrive "over there".
Heaven is glorious, Hell is BAD NEWS.
Have you decided which one YOU will choose?

"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life."
John 3:16 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

God Is Faithful

How faithful is our wondrous God
To heal and meet our every need.
How faithful, He, to lift us up
When we are weak and can't proceed.

For every step we need to take
He leads and guides us carefully.
If we don't know which way to turn
We can seek Him prayerfully.

When we follow in His steps
We won't falter or be nervous.
He will give us confidence
In all our ways of service.

He will lead us to His "best"
And never fail or let us "fall".
We will find our greatest worth
When following His every "call".

"Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ."
Philippians 1:6 KJV


© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Year At Rest

One more year will soon be done.
This "space in time" it's course has run.
Hopefully it's lessons will
Have added wisdom, added skill.

Let all we've learned in this past year
Be building blocks which persevere,
Contributing to higher goals,
Guiding us in all our roles.

Whatever lessons - good or bad -
Have value they can surely add
To make the new year better still
And all it's days with wisdom fill.

To let this year just slip away
And all it's riches not survey
Would cause it's purpose to be lost,
And this might be too high a cost.

"See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil."
Ephesians 5:15-16 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Mountaintop

When I am in the valley and feel so very low,
And I don't have the answers which I really need to know,
I come into His presence and fall upon my face.
When I pray He takes me to the mountaintop of grace.

The valley is behind me, for His grace has raised me up.
When I am down He's faithful to always fill my cup.
His grace is always more than my very deepest need.
Abiding in His presence to the mountaintop will lead.

His grace is as a shelter in which I may reside...
That blessed mountaintop, where I may safely hide.
Peace and joy and stillness are the measures of His grace...
Available to all who will pray and seek His face.

"And he said unto me, 'My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness...' "
II Corinthians 12:9 KJV


© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Bethlehem Town

The still of night o'er Bethlehem lay
When Mary came her child to birth.
She found no place in which to stay
To bring her child of greatest worth,
Except a stable,
But God was able...

Slumbering Bethlehem did not know
What was happening in her midst that eve.
That a tiny babe in a manger low
Was Christ the Lord... She didn't perceive.
But the shepherds came.
They proclaimed His name...

A small beginning... this tiny flame
That was lit in Bethlehem town that night,
As silently the Christ child came
The course of history to rewrite.
The wise men knew...
Wise men still do...

Have you lived in Bethlehem town
And missed this story of great renown?
The manger still remains today.
Will you give Jesus room to stay?
God sent love...
...from above.

© 2003 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Room In The Inn

Baby Jesus, do not fear...
I will make for You some space.
Little child without a bed,
In my heart I'll make a place.

I invite and welcome You
Deep within my heart to stay.
I want to live my life for You
And want to bless You every day.

As You reside within my heart,
Joy and worship I will bring.
You are worthy of all praise...
You'll daily cause my heart to sing.

Nothing I can offer You
For me could greater joy impart
Than to give You residence
In the inn of my own heart.

"If anyone loves Me, he will keep My word; and My Father will love him, and We will come to him and make Our home with him."
John 14:23 NKJ

© 2004 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Sounds Of Christmas

Oh, what joyful sounds we hear...
Bells and chimes upon the ear,
Carolers and choirs singing,
Children's laughter gaily ringing.

Happy sounds float through the air
The birth of Jesus to declare.
Excitement fills our hearts with song
And makes us want to sing along.

The Christmas season fills with joy
As praise and worship men employ.
Lift your heart and voice to sing.
Celebrate the newborn King!

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Jesus Is Born

A tiny babe's cry pierced out through the night,
Forever to change the darkness to light.
It was God's loving plan for all of mankind.
This event which took place by God was hand-signed.

The life of this babe would be flawless and pure
And would bring answer men's sorrows to cure.
He would bring life and wash away sin,
That men everywhere might eternal life win.

That tiny cry pierces darkness today.
Jesus was come... your sin-debt to pay.
For those who receive Him and live in His light
He'll cut through your darkness and make your life bright.


"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through him might be saved."
John 3:16-17 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Touch Of Heaven

A burst of glory happened
Christmas Eve so long ago...
A touch of heaven, a small babe,
Was born in a manger low.

The angel of the Lord announced
That Jesus Christ the Lord had come...
God's salvation plan for man...
Heaven's promise revealed therefrom.

The heavenly host praised God on high,
"Peace on earth, good will toward men".
And shepherds came with haste to see
This thing which had been told to them.

They made known what they had learned,
Praising God for His dear Son,
Rejoicing in their hearts with wonder
In awe of that which God had done.

E'en now our thoughts reach up to God,
To glorify our Savior's birth.
He became our touch with heaven...
"Good tidings of great joy on earth"!

"And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace, good will toward men."
Luke 2:10-14 KJV

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Childhood Christmas

The light in the eyes of a sweet little child,
Worshipping Jesus, the sweet baby mild,
Is precious and tender and wondrous to see.
His love is so pure and his spirit so free.

Lord, let this "imprint" on him ne'er be lost.
May Your love and grace in his heart be embossed.
May the wonder and awe which he has in his heart
Always remain there... Your joy to impart.

For childhood will fade and a young man emerge.
May angels keep watch and around him converge
To guard and protect this wonder and awe.
Let him ne'er forget the "manger" he saw.

"For He will give His angels (especial) charge over you to accompany and defend and preserve you in all your ways (of obedience and service)."
Psalm 91:11 Amplified Bible


© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Fountain Called "Love"

There is a Fountain, and "Love" is it's name.
If we drink it's waters we'll ne'er be the same.
It's waters are kindness and patience and joy,
And peace and good will, which men should employ.

We should drink often so we don't forget
To be kind to others, lest we have regret.
If for this fountain's waters we thirst,
Our lives will be sweetly enhanced and immersed.

"They shall be abundantly satisfied with the fatness of thy house; and thou shalt make them drink of the river of thy pleasures. For with thee is the fountain of life: in thy light shall we see light."
Psalm 36:8-9 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Best Gift

Christmastime carries a message of hope
For those who are "down" and can't seem to cope.
The "Good News" is filled with love, joy and cheer
And is a bright note for all who come near!

People give presents they buy at the mall,
But God sent us Jesus - the best gift of all!
He is our hope - He IS the Good News!
He'll fill us with joy to counter those "blues"!

When we receive His love and His light
He raises us up and makes our days bright!
He is our hope for a life filled with cheer.
He offers salvation to all who will hear.

"For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life."
John 3:16 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Our Daily Bread

Give us this day our daily bread....." Surely this was the prayer of many back during the depression years, for not many were working.

During that time our family lived next door to a man who owned a greenhouse, but who didn't have enough money for food. Mom learned of his situation and invited him to come have dinner with our family so that he would have at least one meal a day. He hesitated, saying, "I work in a greenhouse where my clothes get dirty, and also, I wouldn't want to interrupt your family time, but if you will set the meal on the fence, then I will come out and get it."

Now this couldn't have been easy for Mom, because at that time she had three small children and a baby to take care of. But each day she would fix a plate of food for him and take it out to the fence, and he would come out to get it. She did this every day for two years, until one day, when she placed the plate of food there on the fence, he didn't come out..... he had passed away.

Mom had seen a need and she met it faithfully every day.....

"She extends her hand to the poor, yes, she reaches out her hands to the needy."
Proverbs 21:20 NKJ


© 2004 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Real Christmas

Christmas is not meant to be
A time which centers on thee and me,
But is a time when we recall
What God has done for each and all.

God sent Jesus down to earth.
Focus on His wondrous birth!
Rejoice in what our God has done!
He gave us Jesus Christ, His Son.

Christmas really is about
The birth of Christ. Rejoice and shout!
For God has done a glorious thing!
Carols sing and worship bring!

"Then the angel said to them, 'Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.' And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: 'Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men!' "
Luke 2:10-14 NKJ

© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Christmas Song

Let trumpets and horns and oboes and flutes
Raise up a symphony bursting with praise!
Let strings and piano and cymbals and drums
In jubilant sound their worship songs raise!

Celebrate Jesus! All priase be to Him!
Let voices ring out in chorus and song!
For Jesus is Master and Saviour and King.
To Him all glory and honor belong!


"For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the
government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name
shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God,
The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace."
Isaiah 9:6 KJV


© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Vessel Of Worth

A vessel of honor may often be plain
And belie the true wealth which it may contain.
It won't seek a spotlight or have need to "star".
It's purpose is deeper and greater by far.

In humility's quietness honor is birthed
To create a vessel of very great worth.
This vessel will "stand" and it's value be known.
In heavenly places it's name will be sown.

"Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal. For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also."
Matthew 6:19 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

"Heaven-Sent"

If you're alone and feel despair
And hoping that someone will "care",
Make an effort to "reach out"
And spread a little love about.

To cause another life to "smile"
Is often fun and so worthwhile.
You won't think about your woe
As you spread goodness to and fro.

Plant some love and sow some grace
To bring a "shine" to someone's face.
Spreading joy is time well spent.
For some you might be "heaven-sent"!

"And as ye would that men should do to you, do ye also to them likewise."
Luke 6:31 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Love Overcomes

It washes away tears
And melts away fears.
It softens what's hard
And heals what is scarred.

It opens closed doors
And friendship restores.
It breaks down high walls.
Love "overhauls".

It heals "loose ends"
With family and friends.
It heals the heart
And brings a fresh start.

Love is not limited in it's ability.
Love overcomes...

"Love covereth all sins."
Proverbs 10:12 KJV

"There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear..."
I John 4:18 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Mirrors Of Christmas

If this Christmas season were seen in a mirror,
What would be found there in it's clear reflection?
Would there be singing, or sharing and love...
Would anything there point in Jesus' direction?

Would there be scenes of sweet celebration,
Honoring Jesus... rememb'ring His birth?
Who there would practice "good will to all men"
And live in a way to bring peace on the earth?

Christmas has meaning anew every year
As His love is birthed afresh in each heart.
And when this happens, new joy will come forth...
His love and His peace and warmth to impart.

The scenes in the mirror will be lovely indeed,
Recording the love of the Christmas season,
For all that has meaning and really has worth
Is found in our Lord... HE is the reason!

Without Jesus Christ the mirrors will be empty
And will not record a scene or reflection.
The scenes will be lost, for they don't have true meaning,
And will not be worthy of sweet recollection.

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

This Christmas Season

May candles of warmth burn brightly each day
In hearts filled with love... a beautiful way
To celebrate Christmas and show the true reason
Why we celebrate in this wonderful season.

Giving and sharing with those who have needs
Are beautiful ways to bring joy and "sow seeds".
Bringing a meal might warm someone's heart
If their friends and their families may be far apart.

The lonely and hurting may need a soft touch
To brighten their day so they won't hurt so much.
Some little child might need some new shoes,
A hug or a toy or a game to amuse.

Loving and caring can make this December
A time of much warmth for folks to remember.
If we reach out in this season of love
We're extending true warmth from the Father above.

"And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, 'Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.' And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, 'Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.' "
Luke 2:8-14 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A New Army

Many "generals" have "gone home".
Who will take their place?
Who will carry the baton
And who will run the race?

God is calling mighty men,
Whose faith cannot be shaken,
To light a torch and carry it
The nations to awaken.

He's sending forth His messengers
Deep darkness to break through.
He is seeking harvesters
Salvation's trail to hew.

Men and Women everywhere,
Hear His cry and heed His call,
That salvation's message
Might be heard by one and all.

"Ask of me, and I shall give thee the heathen for thine inheritance, and the uttermost parts of the earth for thy possession."
Psalm 2:8 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Peace In The Storm

When destruction would tend to lie at the door
And you're asking yourself, "Oh, God, how much more?
I'm hurting so much and I'm just very weary.
Is there one thing about which to be cheery?"

May God be your strength in the midst of the storm.
May He carry you through and His wonders perform.
No sea which is troubled is too large for Him,
E'en though the outlook would seem to be dim.

He is able to lift you from seas which o'erwhelm,
To rescue and guide you and be at the helm,
To help you find balance and stand strong again,
To prosper and bless you. Amen and amen!

"Peace, be still..."
Mark 4:39 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Christmas Isn't Christmas

Christmas isn't Christmas
Without the name of Christ.
But now the stores are gearing up
To make their "holiday" heist!

The birth of Christ is now and ever
A most remarkable event.
To simply have a "holiday"
Should not at all be our intent.

Jesus is the world's pure Light,
Outshining man's ability
To make a worthy holiday season
With "tinsel" plausibility.

Christmastime will always be
A time to celebrate Christ's birth.
It isn't just a "holiday"
But a time of praise throughout the earth.


"For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men."
Luke 2:11-14 KJV

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Lord, Shape My Life

Shape my life and help me be
A worthy vessel unto Thee,
So others see in me a light
In day or darkness, shining bright.

Fill me, Lord, with love and grace,
My fear and weakness to replace,
That I might bring a needed touch
To hurting folk, the "lost" and such.

Help me be Thy hand at work
And not to hesitate or shirk
Those things which Thou would have me do
But faithfully to Thee be true.

"But now, O Lord, thou art our father; we are the clay, and thou our potter; and we all are the work of thy hand."
Isaiah 64:8 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Love Is Healing

It's easy to love when all is at ease.
To love on a good day is simply "a breeze".
But what do we do when something goes sour?
Are we loving and kind or cranky and dour?

The love that we show may face a hard test
When things get upset and are not at rest.
But practicing love in times of duress
Will cause us to grow and overcome stress.

This may mean swallowing some pride or "position",
Or holding our tongue in quiet submission,
Showing some patience when we are unhappy,
Not fretting or pouting or just being snappy.

For love is the healing which often is needed,
And it will bring breakthrough if we've interceded.
Love is the key to each situation
And often may be the only salvation.

"Above all things have intense and unfailing love for one another, for love covers a multitude of sins - forgives and disregards the offenses of others."
I Peter 4:8 Amplified Bible

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Compassionate Touch

In this time of gifts and giving,
Help someone who has a need...
One who is less fortunate
And would be very blessed indeed.

For if you reach out to just one
And give a very special gift,
Think how "huge" that gift would be
And how it surely would "uplift".

When you give unto the poor
The blessings you bring will be much.
The Lord will fill them with His joy.
You, too, will feel His special touch.

".....He that hath mercy on the poor, happy is he."
Proverbs 14:21 KJV

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Breathe On Me

Breath of God, breathe on me.
Impart new life and set me free
From earthly mindsets in my day
Which bog me down and bring dismay.

Breathe on me, Your truth bestow,
And holy inspiration show.
Heavenly thoughts will give me vision
And bring to me a fresh precision.

Breathe on me, sweet Breath of God,
And heal the weary steps I've trod.
For when I have Your overview,
Every day is fresh and new.

"The spirit of God hath made me, and the breath of the Almighty hath given me life."
Job 33:4 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Christmas Is Coming!

Christmas is coming! Christmas is coming!
It's time to remember our great Savior's birth...
A time of rejoicing, a time to bring priase
And celebrate Jesus throughout all the earth!

Let choirs make song and many bells ring!
Let music rise up in jubilant sound!
Let our Savior's birth be greeted with joy!
Let banners be drawn and worship abound!

Let the Good News be spread far and wide.
Magnify Jesus throughout all the earth!
Let all that we do in this wonderful season
Bring glory and honor and tell of His worth!

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Heaven's Song

A golden strand of worship
Is threaded through my day,
Woven in the fabric
Of all I think or say.

Rejoicing in my heart abounds,
As God brings forth rich melodies.
In my spirit I hear sounds
Of harps and choirs and symphonies.

Sweet music flows throughout my day
And gathers deep within my soul.
All my song shall be to Him.
With joy His Name I will extol.

This joy that flows from God above...
What sweet expression of His love.


"He has put a new song in my mouth - praise to our God."
Psalm 40:3a NKJ

© 2004 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Staying On Course

When we first make commitment
To relationship or "plan",
Then we must keep direction
From the point where we began.

We cannot wander off on "trails"
But need to "stay the course".
In God we can keep focused,
And our faith He'll reinforce.

If we should step just slightly
From our chosen path in error,
It may not e'en feel wrong
But we truly should beware.

When we follow on that path
Our steps lead us astray,
And then the path where we began
Will seem so far away.

At this point we must go back
To where we first began
To identify our error
And correct our course and plan.

It's well to keep an eye
On our course at every turn,
To ask God for direction
And His answers to discern.

"Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths."
Proverbs 3:5-6 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

First Snowfall

Winter's coming... Brrr, it's cold!
I'm watching winter "white" unfold...
Flurries here and sprinkles there,
Snowflakes floating in the air.

Soon the land will have new "dress"
As winter shares it's soft caress...
Prettiest white on twig and tree,
Wrapping all in purity.

Jack Frost will paint my window pane
With sparkling crystals once again.
The drifting snow paints new delight
As snowflakes wrap my world in white!

God covers all earth's dingy gray
With snow which seems to hide away
The weariness of seasons past
And gives the land a bright new cast.

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Never Alone

When I heard the cry of her heart one day...
"Why am I being so tested,"
I knew in my heart that God was right there
To protect all that He invested.

He had His hand on her life all along,
Adding new strength every day.
And when she thought she could not endure more,
He leaned down to say, "It's okay".

"I'll give you the courage and strength you will need
And never will let you just 'sink'.
For I have been doing a good work in you...
You have more "grit" than you think!

"You will do more than you thought that you could
(And sometimes will be misty-eyed.)
But I'll never leave you... no, not even once.
I will always be there by your side."

"It is God that girdeth me with strength, and maketh my way perfect. He maketh my feet like hinds' feet, and setteth me upon my high places Thou hast enlarged my steps under me, that my feet did not slip."
Psalm 18:32-33, 36 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Godly Design

As we seek the Lord He will help us to find
Our heavenly purpose which He had in mind.
Each life has worth which in God is unique.
When we are in tune with Him, our lives will "speak".

When one does not know what his own "mold" might be,
He will constantly wonder why he is not "free".
He may run, he may hide... but it won't do much good
Until he fits into God's mold as he should.

Each life has a purpose... a Godly design.
Each life has a mold... a blueprint divine.
God "hides" in each life His heavenly treasure,
That we might prosper and bring Him great pleasure.


"Let them shout for joy, and be glad, that favour my righteous cause: yea, let them say continually, Let the Lord be magnified, which hath pleasure in the prosperity of his servant."
Psalm 35:27 KJV

"But now, O Lord, thou art our father; we are the clay, and thou our potter; and we all are the work of thy hand."
Isaiah 64:8 KJV

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Give Thanks

TOO QUICKLY GONE

Thanksgiving Day has come and gone,
But I'm not ready to move on.
I simply want to linger here,
Not let Thanksgiving disappear.

Too quickly is it pushed aside
In favor of the "holiday" tide.
It's truly sad that our great God
Sometimes barely gets a "nod".

I don't want to see it go,
I want more time my thanks to show,
To worship Him Who helps us stand.
All we have is from His hand!

So I'll complete my worship "season"
And will not rush... for very good reason.
I'll savor times of worship sweet.
Thanksgiving then will be complete.

"I will praise the name of God with a song, and will magnify him with thanksgiving."
Psalm 69:30 KJV

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Faithful "Mom"

A mother hen with little chicks
Gathers them beneath her wing.
She watches for their safety
And to her they closely cling.

This feathered "mom" is very wise,
And doesn't leave her chicks alone.
She watches and she shelters them
From that which is unknown.

Moms and Dads, be careful
Of your children every day.
Know just where they are
And with whom your children play.

Left alone they have no guide
To keep them safe from harm.
If you're not sure just where they are
This is cause for real alarm.


© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Urgency

Urgency is friends with work
And doesn't like sheer laziness.
It cannot tolerate disorder,
Wastefulness or craziness.

Urgency demands attention,
Paid to every small detail,
To prevent a major crisis
And to minimize travail.

When urgency sends up red flags
To warn of possible dissension,
It's wise to pay the red flags heed
And put in place "prevention".


© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Thanksgiving Thoughts

Thanksgiving brings reminder of God's abundant blessing,
And pilgrims coming from afar, their love of God expressing.
They did not quit or "give up ship" because of hardship's "press",
But stood for freedom valiantly, enduring constant stress.

The first few years were bleak and hard... they paid a very high cost,
And as they suffered in the cold, precious lives were lost.
They labored and stood firm in faith, believing in their cause,
Planting seeds for this great nation... We give them applause!

Thank You, God, for those dear folk who came upon our shore.
The memory of who they were we never should ignore.
They gave up all they had and knew to worship and be free.
Help us be as strong as they... Help us, Lord, to see!


"Let us come before his presence with thanksgiving, and make a joyful noise unto him with psalms."
Psalm 95:2 KJV

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Pilgrims' Story

Pilgrims came wanting freedom,
Ventured out far to roam,
Seeking for to worship Jesus,
Left their land and left their home.

Pilgrims came, torn and weary,
Suffering for freedom's cause,
Brave of heart and strong of conscience,
Blazing truth, changed history's course.

Do we stand, as the pilgrims?
Have we giv'n as much as they?
Can the coming generations
Look at us, thanksgiving pray?

Pilgrims we? Are we ready
To be brave, to be strong?
Are we building roads for Jesus?
Making strides against all wrong?

Oh, that we would all be pilgrims,
Standing for what we believe,
Sacrificing even a little
That our country might stay free.

"You have given a banner to those who fear You, that it may be displayed because of the truth."
Psalm 60:4 NKJ

© 2003 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Reaching Out

A Thanksgiving Story

Oftentimes, if we look around a little, we can find people with great need right on our doorstep.....

In our neighborhood there was a big old house which had been divided into apartments. There was a kindly gentleman, an older man, who lived there by himself and was very poor.

We were talking one day, as Thanksgiving was approaching, and he commented that he was going to buy a can of pumpkin so that he could taste it on Thanksgiving, because he hadn't had pumpkin pie for a long time. It broke my heart to think that that was going to be the extent of his Thanksgiving dinner. So my parents invited him to come have Thanksgiving dinner with us. Now no one could cook a better turkey than my mom could! Her dinners were always a treat and complete with all the trimmings!

When dinner was ready, she sliced a lot of meat and placed it on a large platter. Also, she placed one whole turkey leg there. We sat down to eat, and as the food was being passed, Mr. H. looked longingly at the turkey platter. He looked at the sliced meat and he looked at the turkey leg, which was large. We knew he wanted the leg, but he was too polite to take it. So Mom told him to take it - and then he did..... with a big smile.

During dinner he began to share his story with us. In 1944 he had done something for which he had spent a short time in jail. His family had disowned him and he had not seen them since. He paid his dues, but his family was gone. He had been completely alone ever since.

It was 1959, and this was the first Thanksgiving dinner he had eaten since 1944.....

How rewarding it is to reach out to others.....

"For I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in. Inasmuch as you did it
to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me."
Matthew 25:35 & 40b NKJ

© 2004 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Jealousy

Jealousy hates and it rants and it rails.
It burns in the heart and well-being assails.
It sees through the smoke of a hot, burning fire.
Who can contain it's wrath and it's ire?

It tries to control... to get it's own way,
And treads upon others it's rage to repay.
But worse than it's symptoms is how it destroys
Good people and friends with the tools it employs.

Jealousy's fire must be quenched at the start
And not be allowed to burn in the heart.
It's warp on the spirit can only cause loss.
No heart is meant to carry this "cross".

"For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work. But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy."
James 3:16-17 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Time Of Plenty

Thanksgiving time is drawing nigh...
The season when we glorify
The God of plenty and provision,
Praising Him for what He's given.

A time to give, a time to share,
A time for others' needs to bear,
For many lives have been displaced
As circumstance has laid them waste.

A time for kindness and compassion,
Reaching out in prayerful fashion,
Truly caring from the heart
For those who need a fresh, new start.

A time to give, a time to share,
A time for us to show we care...
By reaching out in Jesus' Name
We to them God's love proclaim!


"For I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in..... Inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me."
Matthew 25:35,40 NKJ

© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Kindness

Kindness is gentle and reaches quite far
To mend broken fences or heal a scar.

Kindness is oil... for "gears" rusted shut.
How softly it soothes what is "stuck in a rut".

Kindness is warmth... where "cold" has set in.
It's embers burn bright, lost battles to win.

Kindness is seed... where barrenness lay.
It's good multiplies and it grows day-by-day.

"And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you."
Ephesians 4:32 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

America, Listen

We truly need God
For we are short-sighted,
And sometimes our vision
Just needs to be righted.

Without divine help
We cannot see clearly
In making decisions.
This may cost us dearly.

God is our helper
And stands very near
To keep and protect
All that we hold dear.

He has the answers
We need every day.
His guidance and truth
We must carefully weigh.

"Through God we shall do valiantly: for he it is that shall tread down our enemies."
Psalm 108:13 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Whisper A Prayer

When you are broken
And words will not come,
Your heart aches within you
And feels somewhat nunmb...

When your heart is heavy
With grief and despair,
And the weight that you carry
Seems too much to bear...

Leave all your pain
At the foot of the cross.
Jesus will comfort you there
In your loss.

He'll touch your heart
And wipe every tear.
He'll wrap you in love
And stay very near.

His presence is real...
Just whisper a prayer.
He'll not let you go
For Jesus is there.

"Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ,
the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort:
who comforteth us in all our tribulation....."
II Corinthians 1:3-4 KJV

"Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted."
Matthew 5:4 KJV

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

New Clothes

The rich lady wanted to buy some new clothes.
As she sat and pondered just what she should buy
A little old man came and sat by her side.
When she shared her problem, he simply said "Why?"

"I know someone who will clothe you with beauty.
If you will trade Him for what you now wear,
He will provide for you much better garments
Which will be lovely and beyond compare.

"You cannot buy these, for they will be free.
If you come to know my very best friend,
He will adorn you with garments of praise
And a dress white as snow of fine linen blend.

"Your feet will be shod with the Gospel of Peace.
Wisdom and righteousness will be your crown.
Your clothes will be radiant and worthy of honor.
Through Him you'll have place in Heav'nly renown."

She gave some thought to the words she had heard...
"Who was this person who offered new clothes?"
The little man shared about Jesus, his friend,
And how she'd would wear "gold" if His way she chose.

Earthly belongings had not brought her joy,
So she asked his friend to come live in her heart.
She had met Jesus... She had the BEST friend,
And knew that His riches would give her new start.

"I will greatly rejoice in the Lord, my soul shall be joyful in my God; for he hath clothed me with the garments of salvation, he hath covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decketh himself with ornaments, and as a bride adorneth herself with her jewels."
Isaiah 61:10 KJV

"And to her was granted that she should be arrayed in fine linen, clean and white..."
Revelation 19:8 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Winds Of Change

When winds of change are blowing
And direction is not clear,
Ask God to be your compass.
To Him stay very near.

He will help you chart your course
And make your footsteps steady.
As you lean upon His arm
He'll make you to be "ready".

While change is never easy
And you sometimes feel afraid,
Leaning on God's arm will be
The best choice you have made.

"I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the Lord, which made heaven and earth. He will not suffer thy foot to be moved: he that keepeth thee will not slumber. Behold, he that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep."
Psalms 121:1-4 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Showing Respect

Lack of regard for another one's "space"
Can sometimes be rude and to anger give place.
When in a hurry we don't tend to see
That we are infringing where we should not be.

If we will slow down and stop to reflect,
Our actions and words will show others respect.
We can't move through life with blunt disregard...
We must be "reserved", lest others be scarred.

Courtesy, thoughtfulness, reverence and love
Will cause us to "wait" and place others above
Our own selfish thoughts and agendas each day,.
To practice respect is a much better way!

"Love... does not display itself haughtily... It is not rude (unmannerly) and does not act unbecomingly. Love (God's love in us) does not insist on its own rights or its own way, for it is not self-seeking; it is not touchy or fretful or resentful..."
I Corinthians 13:4-5 Amplified Bible

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Veteran's Day

PROUD OF OUR SERVICEMEN

To each and every serviceman
We send our prayers and heartfelt thanks,
For you have well defended us
And have "The Best" amongst your ranks!

We are very proud of you
And salute you with respect.
Thank you for your sacrifice
As our freedoms you protect.

May God be with you every hour,
Throughout the day and dark of night.
May He give you victory,
Strength and courage, power and might!

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

God's Heroes

There are special people
Who really show they care.
They reach out and encourage
With a smile or with a prayer.

They may not even realize
How much they've "spurred you on"
Or how much strength they've lent to you
When life was looking wan.

Their example or their kindness
Then became a stepping stone
To reach a higher plane in life
And realize you weren't alone.

These are God's true heroes.
They live their lives for others.
They don't seek recognition...
Not from strangers, friends or "brothers".

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

In His Timing

We sometimes "rush in" to do all Your will
But maybe should wait and simply be still.
You give us the skills and give us the tools,
But if we don't wait we may be as fools.

You "ready" our hearts and teach us to pray,
That we might be careful in Your will to stay.
You keep us from error and guard all our ways.
As we rest in You, You "hold" all our days.

But then when we're ready and Your time is right,
You shoot us as arrows Your battles to fight.
Victories will come by the work of Your hand
As we trust in You and quietly "stand".


"Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for him....."
Psalm 37:7 KJV

"The Lord is good unto them that wait for him, to the soul that seeketh him. It is good that a man should both hope and quietly wait for the salvation of the Lord."
Lamentations 3:25 KJV

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Fine Teacher

I had a teacher who was neatly dressed.
His students took notice and were much impressed.
He had a good sense of color and style.
He always looked nice and had a big smile.

One of the students made comment one day
On how nice he dressed, and he answered this way,
"I'm not very good-looking, so I may as well
Be good to look at!" (And he did excel!)

He taught us fine music which truly inspired,
And set good example which we much admired.
The students learned more than just music in choir.
To learn to be like him became our desire.

He set a high standard, by which we were blessed.
We learned to work hard and respond with "our best".
As I look back to that time long ago
I know that it changed me... a great debt I owe.


© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Loving God

Who can fathom all the facets
Of God's color and His light?
Who can comprehend the sun
Or moon and twinkling stars at night?

Love's expression through creation
He has freely giv'n to man.
We're as tiny dots of sand,
Yet so important in His plan.

Surrounded by His beauty
We are ever made aware
Of just how much He loves us...
A love beyond compare.


© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Heartstrings Of God

Lord, let my life be as music played on the heartstrings of God...

Beautiful harmonies which heal and make whole,
Sounds of gentleness and tenderness which will touch hearts,
Heavenly sounds which transcend "every day" experience.

Let my life be so in tune with You that my every thought and action
will cause the music to come forth.

Let my life always be a song of praise and worship.

Your are my song.
My heart rejoices in You.


"Serve the Lord with gladness: come before his presence with singing."
Psalm 100:2 KJV

"I will sing a new song unto thee, O God; upon a psaltery and an instrument of ten strings will I sing praises unto thee."
Psalm 144:9 KJV

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Holy God

The makers of evil stand out in the open
And blatantly peddle their arrogant wares.
They tread upon others and lead some astray,
Piling up sin and errors upon errors.

When Almighty God gets ready to speak
They will fall on their faces in terror and fear.
They will not find cover, their voices will fail
Before our great God when He shall appear.

Our God is holy and rules in the earth.
His power and His might will cause ALL to bow.
In that day when He speaks may His servants be hidden.
May those who don't know Him find salvation now.

"For it is written, As I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God. So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God."
Romans 14:11-12 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

An Instant "Fix"

We have instant everything...
From food to photo pix,
So when we get in trouble
Then we want an instant fix!

It may not be that easy
Just to find a quick repair.
We may need to spend some time
In quiet thought and prayer.

The problem may be rooted
In an attitude or "view",
A blind spot or a need to learn
Why things have gone "askew".

A hurried "fix" may not be best
Or bring a good solution.
Fixes may take time to heal
And find peaceful resolution.

"Wait on the Lord: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the Lord."
Psalm 27:14 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Little Sheep

We have a loving Shepherd.
He cares so for His sheep.
He watches over all His flock,
Their welfare to safe-keep.

He teaches and He nurtures them,
Gently meeting every need.
His watchful eye is on each one
To pray and intercede.

Little lambs are tender
And are not so very strong.
Without the Shepherd's loving touch
They falter and go wrong.

Little sheep, it's wise to stay
Within the Shepherd's fold,
For He will guard you all your days,
And even when you're old.

"The Lord is my Shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake."
Psalm 23:1-3 KJV


© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Vine And The Tree

Said the tree unto the vine,
"Why do you lean on me?
You should grow your own strong trunk,
Not wrap around a tree!"

Said the vine unto the tree,
"I can't grow tall alone,
So if I cling to you
I'll get up where I am known!"

Tree
But you smother and take over
And my branches cannot breathe!
I need to grow up tall and
I don't like the way you wreathe!

"Therefore, Vine, I counsel you,
Since you were meant to 'creep'.
I will not let you cling to me.
My mission I must keep.

"It's good to stick to who you are...
A pretty flowering vine.
You have a different purpose,
And it's not the same as mine.

"So as you stay near to the ground
And cover things down low,
You will be seen by many
As you make your flowery show."

"Every purpose is established by counsel..."
Proverbs 20:18 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Gladness

If any should ask me,
I'll say, "I'm all right!"
What use to look down
And get all uptight?

I smile all I can
And laughter I court,
And don't let what comes
My joy try to thwart.

There is so much good.
Why look at the bad?
It just makes one tired
And sorrow will add.

You may think I'm funny
And maybe not "real".
I just will not let
The enemy steal...

My time or my thoughts
With negative ploy.
I'll "dress up" my days
With laughter and joy!

"...For the joy of the Lord is your strength."
Nehemiah 8:10 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Masks And Facades

Some go through life behind masks and facades,
Hiding their pain and feeling at odds,
Covering their heartaches behind a big smile,
Forging ahead... while in self-denial.

But with our God we don't need a facade.
He sees our heart and the paths that we trod.
With Him we don't need to put on a mask.
If we have a need, we simply should ask.

We can relax and be just who we are,
And need not pretend if we're not up to par.
What a relief... and what peace that we have.
His love is as oil and a warm healing salve.

So we can discard all our masks and facades
And exit the ranks of those still at odds.
We have a God Who gives total peace,
Who sees through our masks and gives us release.

".....The Lord seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the
outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart."
I Samuel 16:7 KJV

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

God's Generals

The "generals" in God's army
Are oft not seen or heard,
But they move with power and might
And they stand upon His Word.

These prayer warriors have strong faith
To shatter darkness and bring light.
Immovable in their beliefs
They make God's enemies take flight.

These generals march in unity
Of spirit, mind, and hand-in-hand.
Formidable in strength
They are many in the land.

This army will not waver
In it's stance or in it's cry,
But is waging every battle
With great power from on high.

"The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much."
James 5:16 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Autumn's Gentle Reminder

In the autumn when the leaves begin to fall and the earth readies itself for a much-needed rest, it seems nature is issuing a "call".....

Autumn brings to a close all of the "fullness" of the year. For the year has spilled out it's goodness in the quiet reflections of winter, in the loveliness of spring, the beauty of summer days, and in the glorious blaze and harvest of colors in autumn.

It calls us to a time of rejoicing for the multiplied bountifulness of the year..... to give thanks to an incredibly giving Father..... to affirm our foundations in Him anew..... to be in Him and to honor Him in all facets of our existence. Autumn is our reminder to be grateful in all things and always to bring thanksgiving to our loving God.

It is a time of great rejoicing. We serve an awesome and wonderful God!


"Let us come before His presence with thanksgiving, and make a joyful noise unto him with psalms, for the Lord is a great God, and a great King above all gods."
Psalm 95:2-3 KJV

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Worthy Of All Praise

We worship you, O precious Lord
And bow our hearts in one accord.
How awesome is the love You gave,
Our sins to cleanse and souls to save.

You gave all on Calvary's tree
That we might gain eternity,
That we might know Your priceless grace,
Your love and peace and joy embrace.

You are worthy of all praise.
With joy-filled hearts our voice we raise
To thank You for Your sacrifice,
For in our place You paid the price.


"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life."
John 3:16 KJV


© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Wind Chimes

My wind chimes have a gentle sound
As breezes cause them to resound.
As I hear their pretty "ring"
Something in me starts to sing.

Without the breeze chimes don't "say much".
The "music" happens as they touch.
God's Spirit moves through wind and chimes,
Bringing gentle, thoughtful times.

The soothing music which I hear
Brings Jesus' presence very near.
I sense His Spirit in the breeze
Ministering beauty, peace and ease.

... A time of meditation sweet
With the Savior to retreat.
... A time to listen for His voice
And in my spirit to rejoice.

"When He uttereth his voice... he bringeth forth the wind out of his treasures."
Jeremiah 51:16 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Prayer For Healing

May healing come forth
As a blossoming rose
And give you new strength
From your head to your toes.

May Jesus bring peace
As a sweet, fragrant balm
To soothe away struggle
And fill you with calm.

May you have fresh sparkle
To meet each new day
And conquer each challenge
Which may come your way.

May you be filled with
Much joy and delight
As you rest in His healing
And walk in His light!

"Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits: Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases. Who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies; Who satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle's."
Psalm 103:2-5 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A New Pet

Said the dog to himself...
I don't like this cat!
She gets in my way
Wherever I'm at!

She's nosy and curious
And sure isn't shy.
She "gets in my face"!
I sure don't know why...

My owners weren't happy
With just having me.
The reason they got her
I can't seem to see!

I do not like being
With someone like her!
I can bark loud,
She only can purr!

She wants to be "friends"...
This sure is a trial.
I guess I'll get used to her
... After awhile.

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Heroes Today

When fires rush onward in torrents of flame
Home and belongings to ruthlessly claim,
And the fire crews are weary from long hours of toil
And laboring fiercely the fires to foil...

Oh, God, help these men to be strong and have might
As they bravely endeavor this battle to fight.
Give them the wisdom and skills they will need.
For their safety and health we prayerfully plead.

"Hurrahs" for these crews who would rush to the scene
To save lives and homes and with skill intervene.
These are real heroes - we give accolade
For the service and sacrifice which they have made!


© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Wait

When you move away from "comfort"
To an "unfamiliar" place,
You may not feel "at home"
And must lean upon God's grace.

Don't fill your time with your new plans
But wait for God's instruction.
You cannot rely upon
An easy, quick deduction.

You can fill your heart and mind
With that which you "adore",
Thinking you are happy and miss
What God has in store.

The plan which God would have you make
Just might include some change
Of heart and thoughts and patterns
Which you need to rearrange.

If you wait He then will lead you,
Though you feel you're "flying blind".
You will have His very best
And fulfill all He's designed.

"The Lord is good unto them that wait for him, to the soul that seeketh him."
Lamentations 3:25 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Perfect Balance

Some days are full of too many challenges.
Pressures and tensions pull this way and that.
Others' demands and work expectations
Will tend to make this problem hard to combat.

Finding a balance and easy solution
Are not necessarily easy to do,
But as we seek God He'll help us to start
Sorting out our priorities and think all this through.

For often the "best" things in life can get lost
In a pile-up of busyness out of control.
We needn't keep pace with what the world says
Or yield to what others think should be our goal.

God will give wisdom and practical insight
To show us what should be a comfortable pace.
Only in Him will we find our true balance
And endless frustration finally erase.

"Teach me thy way, O Lord, and lead me in a plain path....."
Psalm 27:11 KJV

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

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Walking Softly

May my moccasins tread lightly
In the ways You have me walk.
May my manner e'er be gentle
In expression as I talk.

May my spirit be serene,
Undisturbed in any way.
May my life be a reflection
Of Your beauty every day.

"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance..."
Galatians 5:22 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Autumn's Fanfare

I hear trumpets and horns
In fanfares of praise!
Autumn's fine brilliance
Commands that we raise...

A salute of thanksgiving
And jubilant voice
To Almighty God!
In Him we rejoice!

All glory be given
For His rich expression
Of beautiful color
In autumn's procession!


© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Heavenly Threads

Lord, I want You to be interwoven into every thought I have.....
To be threaded through every fiber of my being.....
To be the pattern and design of my life.

To be the color in me which is visible to others.....
To be as shimmering threads which reflect light into darkness.

If the fabric of my life is in Your hands,
Then it will be more beautiful than anything I could conceive.....
For Your hands are loving and creative.

I want those around me to see You, and not me.
In Jesus' Name, Amen.


"For we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord."
II Corinthians 3:18 KJV

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Tried And True

When a life is formed on principles
Seasoned, tried and true,
It will not quickly change it's ways
And try that which is new.

Wisdom says to first observe
And weigh the end result.
And then if we are still not sure
Find a wise man to consult.

New ideas are not bad,
And some will be just really great.
But it's good to use a "filter"
To protect us from unknown fate.

We do not want to go astray
And so we "measure" what is new,
And if the new way isn't best
Decide to stay with "tried and true".

"Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety."
Proverbs 11:14 KJV

"Without counsel purposes are disappointed: but in the multitude of counsellors they are established."
Proverbs 15:22 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

On Wings Of A Prayer

What will I write in the book of this day...
What will be found there? What will it say?
May it's pages be full of good thoughts and good things...
A record of blessings, of journeys on wings.

On wings of a prayer I can soar very high,
And in worship and praise to my Savior draw nigh.
I can conquer big mountains with Him at my side
And find my direction with His hand to guide.

As I look in my book at my day in review,
All will be different and all will be new.
My page will be written with colorful flair
As I travel today on wings of a prayer.


"Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you."
I Thessalonians 5:16-18 KJV

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Strong Tower

If you're feeling weary,
Know that you are not alone.
The burden which you carry
By our Savior is well known.

He'll sustain and carry you,
Beyond your own endurance.
He'll buoy you up and cheer you on
With strength and reassurance.

He's your refuge and your fortress,
A wonderful, strong tower,
In the times when you feel weak,
Throughout the day... and every hour.

As you lean and trust in Him
To do what you yourself can't do,
His tender, loving presence
And His light will bring you through.

"But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint."
Isaiah 40:31 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Good Perspective

We sometimes get bogged down
In details and much "ado".
We lose time and direction
'Cause we need an "overview".

If we "back off" and "take a look"
We then can re-evaluate.
Our perspective will be better
And we'll know what to anticipate.

If we see the bigger picture
We will likely get more done.
We won't bog down in little things
But finish all that we've begun.


© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Autumn Smiles

As summer starts to fade away,
Autumn bursts forth in brilliant dress
To bring to close another season
And usher in the winter's rest.

She adds her own sweet offering
To summer's easy-going days
By painting everything she sees
In fiery colors set ablaze.

But her winds and brisk, cool air
Bring a message of their own.
She will cause us to awake
Out of the summer's ease we've known.

For winter follows close behind.
She, too, will bring her very best.
All the land she will embrace
And bring to all much-needed rest.

Seasons come and seasons go,
But autumn has a secret story.
As she smiles with brilliant color,
She shows to us the Father's glory!

"The earth is full of the goodness of the Lord."
Psalm 33:5 NKJ

© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Giving And Sharing

In this land of "great and plenty"
We never think we have "enough".
We always think we need some more
And soon have too much stuff.

We don't have time to use it all
But relish having "much".
We may not even need the things
To which we tightly clutch.

The way to solve this problem
Is to learn to share and give.
It's very much more joyous
And a better way to live.

Reaching out to other folks
And sharing what we own
Will bring to us a blessing
We won't otherwise have known.

Many people have deep need
And don't know what to do.
The answer to their problem
Just might come from me or you.

"Charge them to do good, to be rich in good works, to be liberal and generous of heart, ready to share with others."
I Timothy 6:18 Amplified Bible

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Decisions

Sometimes we're called on
To make hard decisions,
And we must trust God
For His help and provisions.

When we don't have answers
Or we're stuck in a groove,
Only in Him will we
Make the right move.

He has solutions
Which we may not see.
He may have us wait
When we want to flee.

He'll help us avoid
Brash words and poor choice
And carefully guide us
By His faithful "voice".

His wisdom and timing
We just cannot guess.
As we wait on Him
Our needs He'll address.

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

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Fountain Of Life

God's Word is as a fountain
With sparkling waters cool and clear,
A place of sweet refreshment
For all who will draw near.

This is not "just any" fountain
But one which changes lives each day.
As we drink from it's pure waters
Sin will start to fall away.

It's gentle waters wash and cleanse,
Heal, refresh and make us new.
The waters of His fountain
Will transform all that we do.

It's good to linger near the fountain,
Drinking often through the day.
It's waters are in fresh supply...
A blessed place to stay.

"For with thee is the fountain of life; in thy light shall we see light."
Psalm 36:9 KJV

"Every word of God is pure; he is a shield unto them that put their trust in him."
Proverbs 30:5 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Hope In Jesus

Always with Jesus there is a new day.
Always with Jesus HOPE comes into play.
Hope brings a future... a bright second chance.
Hope lifts us up and confidence grants.

Hope is a lifeline... a vision for some.
Hope is the promise of good things to come.
In Jesus are answers which cannot be seen.
Jesus brings hope... and on Him we can lean.


"If we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it."
Romans 8:25 KJV

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Busy Little Squirrel

A Children's Poem

Little squirrel, hurry, hurry.
Winter's coming! Scurry, scurry!
Gather food so you won't worry
When you see the snow's first flurry!

Little squirrel, busy, busy,
Worked so hard that he got dizzy,
Worked himself into a tizzy!
Gee whiz! This little squirrel was busy!

When wintertime is cold and breezy,
He won't worry and feel queasy,
Won't be hungry or be sneezy,
But will rest and take it easy!

"It is unusually wise to store up food for winter.
Even ants that are not strong do so."
Proverbs 30:24-25 (Paraphrased)

© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Discernment

God wants us always to "discern"
But from criticism turn.
Criticism points it's finger,
Speaking words which "cut" and linger.

It often does not understand
What it sees or what God planned.
It murmurs and complains a lot,
And often it just "stirs the pot"!

Discernment has more careful eyes,
And it's answers will be wise.
All the facts it will review
And quickly sees what's good and true.

It rests within a heart that's humble,
Which will pray and will not grumble.
Discernment has a different face
Than criticism... which has no grace.

"Charity... doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil..."
I Corinthians 13:5 KJV

"Lord, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in thy holy hill? He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbour, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbour."
Psalms 15:1,3 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Redeemed Life

He who loves Jesus will have a song.
It rings in his heart the whole day long.
The love and the joy he has within
Will buoy him up and bring a "grin".

He has a really good reason to live...
To live for Jesus and to give
His love to others every day,
His grace and kindness to convey.

Though he may not speak a word
Someone's heart he may have stirred
By his actions or his smile
Or by going "the extra mile".

His life will speak a message clear,
One which many need to hear...
That Jesus washes sin away
And gives us joy in every way.

"Blessed are they whose iniquities are forgiven, and whose sins are covered. Blessed is the man to whom the Lord will not impute sin."
Romans 4:7-8 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Moving

Moving means work... and a time of review.
There are cupboards and boxes and drawers to go through.
Where did it come from... all of this "stuff"?
If we move half of it we'll have enough!

We'll rediscover some things we had lost.
Now we must deal with what should have been "tossed".
All of those things that we tried to collect
We really don't need... as we stop to reflect.

Moving is "painful"... it's not any fun,
And we sure will be glad when it's over and done.
We've learned not to store stuff and think we will find
We won't even miss that which we leave behind.

This is a picture of how we will feel
As we follow Jesus and learn what is real.
He will make change in our lives every day
And cause all our "baggage" to just fall away.

"Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth."
Colossians 3:2 KJV

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Your Yoke Is Easy

Everywhere I look are needs
But I need to stay within
The guidelines which You have for me
Lest my energies wear thin.

I must only choose to "carry"
What You give me in each day.
Then I won't get "scattered"
And my focus go astray.

I can get the right things done
When I keep my eyes on You.
Your yoke is easy, this I know.
How much these words have proven true.

"Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light."
Matthew 11:28-30 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Teachable

Teach me, Lord, that I might learn
To know Your ways and truth discern.
Wisdom is my great desire,
That to which I will aspire.

I don't want to be a fool,
Unteachable in any rule,
For anything I try to do
Just will not prosper without You.

Help me, Lord, to e'er be humble,
Be content and not to grumble,
But all Your tenets to obey
And near to wisdom always stay.

"... Your servant meditates on Your statutes. Your testimonies also are my delight and my counselors."
Psalm 119:23 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

You Are The Lesson

You are the lesson your children will learn.
In all of your actions the truth they'll discern.
They'll do as you do and act as you act.
Your patterns in life they will surely enact.

For a child loves to mimic his mom and his dad.
He'll be glad when you're glad and sad when you're sad.
The best gift in life for any young child
Is a parent whose life after Jesus is styled.

He'll learn of the Lord in your actions each day.
He'll learn to be loving and he'll learn to pray.
As you follow Jesus, then he'll know Him too.
For He will see Jesus in all that you do.

"Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it."
Proverbs 22:6 KJV

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Stillness

Stillness is a precious gift
Which soothes my soul with peace and calm.
As I lay my burdens down
It comes as wondrous healing balm.

The daily hub-bub which I face
Will tend to overfill my cup
With worries, work and weariness
Or thoughts which often "stir me up".

When I discard my busyness
In favor of the Holy Place,
There I find God's peace and calm,
Hear His voice and know His grace.

As I wait there stillness comes.
The "world" grows dim and far away.
His peace restores my weary soul
As I wait and and as I pray.

"He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside still waters."
Psalm 23:2 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Autumn's Palette

God has His palette ready
To paint color everywhere,
To brightly dress the trees and hills
With brilliance and with flair.

We're in that special time of year
When God spills out His glory
In wondrous hues for all to see...
As autumn tells it's story.

His "artwork" draws us once again
To celebrate and praise His name.
With joy and adoration
We His majesty proclaim!

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Another's Shoes

We do not know the sufferings of others
Unless we have walked where they walk.
We cannot know how much they are hurting,
Except when they sometimes will talk.

Help us, O Lord, to not criticize
Those things which we don't understand
When we simply don't know the weight of their load
And what in their life makes demand.

May we learn compassion and never "look down",
May we curb our critical talk.
But for the grace of our loving God
We too might walk where they walk.

"Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous: not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing."
I Peter 3:8-9 KJV


© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Friendship's Warmth

Fellowship and conversation
Bring us smiles and warm the heart.
What a blessing to have friends
Of whose lives we can be part.

As we share our special thoughts
In sweet exchange we stretch and grow.
The joy we find in one another
Will rest in memory with warm glow.

Thank You, Lord, for all my friends,
Young and old, far and near.
Each one is a treasured gift
And each one is so very dear.

"A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity."
Proverbs 17:17 KJV

"Ointment and perfume rejoice the heart: so doth the sweetness of a man's friend by hearty counsel."
Proverbs 27:9 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Interruptions

Sometimes when we're going too fast
We start to lose track of detail,
Or we may not have full perspective
That something is about to fail.

In these times God sometimes will
Make interruption in our path.
He will cause a change of plan
To save us from some unknown wrath.

We may not know just what His reason
But must trust in His full care
Of all things that pertain to us.
Our God will never make an error.

He daily saves us from our foes
And oversees our every need.
His lovingkindness reaches out
To help us know how to proceed.

"My help cometh from the Lord, which made heaven and earth. He will not suffer thy foot to be moved: he that keepeth thee will not slumber. Behold, he that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep. The Lord is thy keeper: the Lord is thy shade upon thy right hand."
Psalm 121:2-5 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A New Day

This is a new day... unlike any other.
It does not look back or mimic another.
It gives opportunity for a fresh start
And offers us time, in which we have part.

How will we use it to please our dear Lord?
Where would He send us... or what point us toward?
This precious day offers very wide choice.
When Jesus directs us, then we can rejoice!

It's just "one more day" till we find His design,
And then it explodes into "brilliance and shine".
The day is unique, with His signature on it,
And becomes like a lyric and beautiful sonnet.

May all of our days be "signed" by His hand
And have mighty impact as in Him we stand.
May each day be filled and have a rich story,
Accomplish His purpose and bring Him much glory.

"This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it."
Psalm 118:24 KJV

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Mommy And Daddy

A Children's Poem

I have lots of toys,
And they tell me I'm blessed,
But hugging my Mommy
And Daddy is best!

We can ride bikes
Or just go somewhere,
But I love it the most
When they show that they care.

They help me with things
I don't know how to do.
(When I was little
We played "peekaboo").

When I am sad
They make me feel glad.
My favorite people
Are my Mom and Dad.

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Facing A Mountain

Are you facing a "mountain"
Much bigger than you?
Are you bogged down in work
And not sure you'll get through?

God can move "mountains",
E'en though they be large.
Whisper a prayer...
Let Him be in charge.

He'll be your strength
In your time of great need.
He will sustain you
And help you succeed.

He'll make you equal
To what stands before you.
When you lean on Him
He will help you break through.

"For verily I say unto you, 'If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you.'"
Matthew 17:20 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Autumn

When summer starts to yawn and
yields her tired labors.....

Autumn steps in with enthusiasm of color and
paints her bright note far and wide.

Surely it seems that God "pulls out all the stops"
in brilliant display of color!

A lovely space in time...... with rich bounty of harvest,
with brisk, invigorating air,
with flurries of activities in preparation
for the new season.

A time of exaltation and thanksgiving
as we celebrate the beauty of creation and
the fullness of God's provision for us.

And then the leaves begin to fall
as all nature seeks a time of rest.

And as winter knocks in her own time,
autumn shuts her door quietly and slips away.

But in memory, our hearts have been warmed
against the coldness of winter
by a very loving God!

"The earth is full of the goodness of the Lord."
Psalm 33:5b NKJ

© 2004 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Blessing Others

When we look upon another
We do not know their sorrow.
Within they may be wondering
How to face tomorrow.

And then again when we see smiles
Happiness may not abide.
The smile may be a cover-up
For fear and aching deep inside.

The heavy burdens people have
May cause them not to act just right.
It's best to show some patience,
Not to judge them or to be uptight.

To "judge" a person hastily
Is a sign of pride and error.
It really would be better
If we bless them with a prayer.

"Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them....."
Matthew 7:29 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Promise Of Heaven

Jesus washed me and cleansed me
And made me whole.
In His salvation
Was rest for my soul.

My sins which were scarlet
Were made white as snow.
The sin debts I had
I no longer owe.

He lifted the burdens
I carried each day.
When I laid them down
He took them away.

How grateful I am
That He gave me new life.
I have promise of Heaven
And won't face hell's strife!

I am blessed every moment
By His love and grace
And look forward to Heaven
When I finish my race.

"My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: and I give unto them eternal life: and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand."
John 10:27-28 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Victory's Song

Victory's sweet song is simple to sing,
But from battles hard fought will maturity spring.
For without coming through some struggles or fire
We are not molded as God would desire.

He sometimes allows us to walk through the flame
So we will grow and not be the same.
As we trust in Him and His leading obey,
He then will guide us each step of the way.

There is no victory if there is no test.
Victory comes when we are hard-pressed.
Each challenge we meet will bring us up higher.
It is then we can sing in victory's choir!

"Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ's sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy."
I Peter 4:12-13 NKJ

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Many Voices

There are many voices in the land
But only one that matters.
When we heed the voice of God
All "darkness" flees and scatters.

Who can stand before our God
And think that he is right?
Oh, how sad the state of man,
How pitiful his plight.

He with insight will entreat
The favor of Almighty God
And ever seek His wisdom
For each step his foot must trod.

Society has changed it's "views"
But truth and justice still will stand.
God is great in power and might...
We need the blessing of His hand.

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

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Compassion

Compassion for the "hurting"
Is a light within the heart...
A generous gift of mercy,
Love and kindness to impart.

Reaching out to one who's lost
Or lifting one who's just worn out,
Encouraging a fearful soul
Is what this "gift" is all about.

Compassion has a message
Which speaks "There is hope for me"
To one who may be failing
And wants to be set free.

Compassion speaks of Jesus' love
And pierces through the dark of "night",
As a lighthouse on the shore,
Sending out it's healing light.

"Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous: not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing."
I Peter 3:8-9 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Trust In The Lord

Are you fearful and shaky, nervous and fretful,
Or tired and weary and sometimes forgetful?
Maybe you're rushed, and push comes to shove.
You're just plain worn out, with no rest thereof...

Stop where you are and turn to the Lord.
He will bring peace, and you'll be restored.
For moments you give Him will be multiplied
Back into your life... with blessings beside.

All things are easier when left in His hand.
He is your hope when you don't understand.
He'll bear your load and will make it His own.
In Him you'll have answers and not be alone.


"Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths."
Proverbs 3:5-6 KJV

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Little Hummingbird

Precious little hummingbird,
Flitting quickly through the air,
I see you in amongst my flowers,
Seeking nectar, hovering there.

I love to watch you come and go.
Do you know you bring delight?
You're just so tiny and so cute...
You always make my day seem bright!


© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Heart Pillows

Sometimes the heart needs a place of softness... a place of comfort upon which to rest and be safely held... where there is warmth and healing, deep satisfying rest from weariness... a place where the heart can shed it's pain and find new hope... and can be renewed in it's joy and happiness.

For the heart is tender and needs to be nurtured in gentleness. As it finds comfort, then laughter will return... and zest for living... and the capacity to love without fear.

The gentle hands of Jesus hold many pillows for the heart... and He is able to restore. He knows the heart's sorrows and will cause it's many scars to fade away.....

Rest in Him.

"The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me..... to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness....."
Isaiah 61:1,3 KJV

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

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

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 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

© 2003 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Transitions

Transition and change can be quite unnerving
When we want to be steady, at peace and unswerving.
We know where we've been, just not where we're going.
As creatures of habit we long to have "knowing".

As we trust in God He'll help us make change,
And all of our "loose ends" He will arrange.
He is our "bridge" in whatever we face.
He will be our "footing" when in a new place.

"The Lord will perfect that which concerneth me....."
Psalm 138:8 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Gentle Breeze

God brings "soothing" in a breeze,
Gently swaying grass and trees...
His peace and calm in sweet bouquet.
All tension seems to float away.

He gives softness for the soul
To bring refreshing or console.
His Spirit hovers in the breeze
And seems to bring sweet joy and ease.

So when I feel a gentle breeze
Or see it swaying grass and trees,
I'll linger there a little while...
Just to praise Him... and to smile.

"...He causeth his wind to blow, and the waters flow."
Psalm 147:18 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Music Of The Heart

The music of the heart
Is best formed when tuned to You,
For it will have a gentleness
As soft as morning dew.

It's melody is lovely
As it gently ebbs and flows
In strains which only You could give
And no man could compose...

Heavenly songs with harmonies
Beyond what ears have heard
Which flow in sweet abundance,
And the heart is deeply stirred.

All of life holds loveliness
When the heart contains
These wondrous chords and harmonies,
These blessed, heavenly strains.

"Yet the Lord will command his lovingkindness in the daytime, and in the night his song shall be with me, and my prayer unto the God of my life."
Psdalm 42:8 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Prayer For Our Nation

A tired people, worn and weary,
Praying, standing.... in travail.
Hear our prayer and heal our nation.
Let truth be known and light prevail.

Protect our country, we beseech Thee,
Help us stand and not make error.
As darkness threatens to destroy us,
Strengthen us and hear our prayer.

Guide our leaders, keep them strong.
Let them seek to know Your way,
May they always use Your wisdom
Every hour throughout the day.

Quench the fires of hate and turmoil
Stirred within by evil men.
Help us, Lord, to work together,
In Jesus' Name we pray, Amen.

"Therefore, I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers,
intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men,
for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a
quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence."
I Timothy 2:1-2 NKJ

© 2004 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Wise Answer

A wise man will ponder
And study to know
Just what is the truth,
So he will be slow...

To speak or make comment
On that which he sees.
He never will hurry
Or just try to please.

For he understands that
Haste can cause error,
So he carefully weighs things
And seeks God in prayer.

When he gives his answer
You'll know he is right.
Because he has prayed
His words will bring light.

"Wisdom resteth in the heart of him that hath understanding....."
Proverbs 14:33 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Many Paths

The paths of life lie waiting.
They beckon and they call.
Opportunities are many.
Some are big, but some seem small.

The pathways seem to look alike
At first... they do not vary,
But down the road, around the bend,
They may be just plain scary.

The choices are in front of us...
We don't know which is best.
But only as we're in God's will
We'll find the path that's blessed.

It may not be an easy path,
But He knows what we need.
We will find the choicest one
When we humbly follow His lead.

"He maketh my feet like hinds' feet, and setteth me upon my high places."
Psalm 18:33 KJV

"Shew me thy ways, O Lord; teach me thy paths."
Psalm 25:4 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Memories

It's good sometimes to reminisce,
Lest we forget just where we're from.
The "good old days" were lots of fun
And helped to shape who we've become!

We didn't have electric lights
And used a woodstove to keep warm.
We hauled water from a well
(And outdoor plumbing was the norm).

My roller skates clamped on my shoes,
My scooter was wheels on a two-by-four.
Radio shows brought much delight...
And five-cent cones at the grocery store.

SOFT ice cream from Dairy Queen
Was new and really tasted sweet.
Comic books cost just a dime,
And drug store sodas were a treat!

All these things bring many smiles
And help to make me realize
That joy was found in simple things.
These are memories I will prize.


© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

LogJams

Logjams may start very small
With just a little twig or stick,
But if there starts to be a pile-up
Then we must do something quick.

Logjams happen in our lives,
Demanding that we take some action,
For we could soon be overcome
With problems and distraction...

Preventing us from moving forward,
Causing issues to be blurred.
We can't ignore those "twigs and sticks"
Which sometimes seem to have occurred.

"Floods" may come and overflow
Our lives with unexpected speed.
Keeping channels free of pile-ups
Will cause the waters to recede.

"See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil."
Ephesians 5:15-16 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Jealousy's Spark

Jealousy "wants" and demands and controls.
It "batters" and hurts many innocent souls.
It smolders within as a hot-burning flame.
"Getting it's way" is it's primary aim.

What havoc it wreaks with it's "power" and it's greed.
When it is harbored, ill health it will breed.
Jealousy's spark is a miserable snare,
But it can be conquered by love and through prayer.

"For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work. But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy."
James 3:16-17 KJV


© 2007 Arlene Schwartakopf

The Waters Of The Spirit

I want to live in the "stream" of the Spirit.

I want to get out where the "current" is, so that I might feel the Spirit's movement.

Where the current is flowing there is fresh water (fresh rhema)..

The current washes away any "debris" that would collect in my life. It cleanses and purifies, and keeps me from having "logjams".

Wherever the waters flow... that is where I want to go. For if I "keep my feet wet" in the waters of the Spirit, then I will always be in touch with God.

And there I will find new life and refreshing and health.


"As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God. My soul thirsteth for God , for the living God..."
Psalm 42:1-2 KJV


© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Hope For The Hurting

JOYOUS HOPE

Can the laughter come again...
After sorrow and dismay?
Will it come another day
And wash these many tears away?

Will merriment and joy
Overtake this pain and loss?
Is there anything to lift
A heavy burden or a cross?

Never, ever give up hope!
Yes! Laughter will return!
Our God will lift you up and bring
The joy for which you yearn.

The events which we go through
Are written in the heart.
But God is able to replace
The hurt with a new start

He will wrap His love around you
And His peace will be your "stay".
Yes! Again you'll find that
You have laughter in your day!

"The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit."
Psalm 34:18 KJV

"The joy of the Lord is your strength."
Nehemiah 8:10 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Being Light

Lord, let the witness of my life
Be pure and holy... always true.
Every day I want to walk
In a way that pleases You.

I may be the only light
In another's weary road.
Help me to be sensitive
And maybe lighten someone's load.

Show me, Lord, if I make error,
Finer-tuning all my ways,
So my light will brighter shine
And bring You glory all my days.

I want to be an open vessel,
Always useful in Your sight.
What a joy to live for You...
Serving You is my delight!

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


© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Just One Of Those Days

There just are those days
When you cannot keep up.
And try as you will
You're like a "whipped pup".

The day seems to be
Always two steps ahead
Of where you should be,
And you just scratch your head...

Saying, "How did this happen?
I'm so far behind!
What can I do
To get out of this bind?"

Take a deep breath
And say a small prayer.
God is your help
And He really does care.

Some things are urgent,
Some things are not.
He'll even take care of
The things you forgot!

So if you are having
Just "one of those days",
Cheer up and be happy
And give God the praise!

"This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it."
Psalm 118:24 KJV

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Thoughts On Love

Love is a strong foundation.
Love is as oil when the gears of living seem to be sticking.

Love repairs... when something is broken.
Love breaks through barriers.

Love reaches out... is not lethargic or self-absorbed.
Love is sensitive... has it's eyes open in awareness.

Love carefully measures it's actions and words.
Love encourages, but never controls.

Love bypasses anger and circumstance.
Love sees beyond fear.

Love is not in a hurry... it rests.
Love doesn't give up.

"Many waters cannot quench love, neither can the floods drown it..."
Song of Solomon 8:7 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf