Sandy lived in a condo and was president of the homeowner's association therel Sometimes this job could become quite a headache.....
In one particular instance she was dealing with a difficult man who lived next door to her. His daughter parked her car in a place which was not allowed according to the rules of the complex. When Sandy told him the car needed to be moved, he became irate and said he would "get even" with her. His idea of "getting even" was to turn up the sound on his stereo, play rock music, and then go to work. The sound was so loud it made the walls vibrate. (This was just on the other side of the wall of the room where her little girls were trying to sleep).
Sandy called the police. They came out and told the man to turn off his stereo by 10:00 p.m., which he did that first night. But the second night he turned up the sound and then went away overnight, leaving it playing. At this point she called me (and some others) for prayer, and we prayed that God would intervene..... thet HE would cause the sound to stop.
On the third day Sandy called the police again, telling them this time that the neighbor had said he would "get even" with her. This caught their attention because they considered what he said to be a threat. They called the neighbor and gave him warning.
In the meantime there were interruptions in their power... just a couple little "blips"... causing the lights to flicker on and off for a second. These "blips" caused the neighbor's stereo to quit working!!! Hallelujah! A great answer to prayer!
But Sandy still had another challenge facing her. There was a meeting of the homeowner's association scheduled, and she was fearful that this man, who really was a bully, would show up. She didn't know what he might do. Again she called for prayer. We prayed that God would send warrior angels and guardian angels to be by her side in the meeting... to back him off.
The meeting was scheduled at a restaurant, and Sandy arrived there early with two other people from her complex. As they were sitting, waiting, the "bully" walked up, looked at them and said to Sandy, "Well, I see you have your cronies with you", and then walked away. There was a woman in the complex who also was difficult and who was going to be at the meeting to "side" with this man, but she didn't show up either. God answered just exactly as we had prayed.
What an awesome God we have!
"God will give His angels especial charge over you, to accompany and defend and preserve you in all your ways of obedience and service."
Psalm 91:11 Amplified Bible
© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Wednesday, February 28, 2007
Tuesday, February 27, 2007
For Moms And Dads
Children by example learn
And your approval want to earn.
They will mimic all you do
(And things you "hide", they'll see right through).
A child's life is as a mirror.
Who you are will grow much clearer.
He will learn all that he ought...
Life's valued lessons which you've taught.
He most delights in Mom and Dad,
And family times will make him glad.
Here he will be more content
And start to be more confident.
His family is his very best asset
To guide him through life's every facet.
What he learns at home will mold
And stay with him e'en when he's old.
Mom and Dad, give him good start.
Into his life God's truths impart.
He then will live on higher plane
And much more worthy goals attain.
"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
© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf
And your approval want to earn.
They will mimic all you do
(And things you "hide", they'll see right through).
A child's life is as a mirror.
Who you are will grow much clearer.
He will learn all that he ought...
Life's valued lessons which you've taught.
He most delights in Mom and Dad,
And family times will make him glad.
Here he will be more content
And start to be more confident.
His family is his very best asset
To guide him through life's every facet.
What he learns at home will mold
And stay with him e'en when he's old.
Mom and Dad, give him good start.
Into his life God's truths impart.
He then will live on higher plane
And much more worthy goals attain.
"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
© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Monday, February 26, 2007
People Who Inspire
GLENN
Glenn had a very soft heart, and he loved people. He especially loved children.
He was an incredibly gifted artist and craftsman. But because he worked with chemicals sometimes in his work, he had a physical breakdown at age 47 and could not work again.
He lived in a lower income section of town and would often reach out to help his neighbors. Over a period of years, when he would go fishing and catch a steelhead, he would give the fish to people in the neighborhood, or he would have it smoked and canned and then give it away as gifts.
After he became disabled, he began to work for a charitable organization through his church. When the organization received calls from people in need, he would join with another man and go out to meet the people who were in need. And then, if the request was legitimate, the organization would arrange to meet the needs. He spoke of one family of ten they visited who had no beds. Even the 88-year old Grandpa was sleeping on the wood floor.
Glenn commented that whenever he would feel depression, he would go out on these calls. When he saw how much worse off others were than he was, it helped him to feel better.
Many children in the neighborhood would stop by to see Glenn. If he felt good enough he would sit on the front steps and visit with them. Most of these children didn't have much, but they knew Glenn was their friend. He made kites (really nice, colorful kites) for many, and he fixed their bicycles or whatever else needed fixing. He loved the children.
Glenn was not a wealthy man and did not have good health, but he understood giving and practiced it..... he gave much to others.....
"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
Glenn had a very soft heart, and he loved people. He especially loved children.
He was an incredibly gifted artist and craftsman. But because he worked with chemicals sometimes in his work, he had a physical breakdown at age 47 and could not work again.
He lived in a lower income section of town and would often reach out to help his neighbors. Over a period of years, when he would go fishing and catch a steelhead, he would give the fish to people in the neighborhood, or he would have it smoked and canned and then give it away as gifts.
After he became disabled, he began to work for a charitable organization through his church. When the organization received calls from people in need, he would join with another man and go out to meet the people who were in need. And then, if the request was legitimate, the organization would arrange to meet the needs. He spoke of one family of ten they visited who had no beds. Even the 88-year old Grandpa was sleeping on the wood floor.
Glenn commented that whenever he would feel depression, he would go out on these calls. When he saw how much worse off others were than he was, it helped him to feel better.
Many children in the neighborhood would stop by to see Glenn. If he felt good enough he would sit on the front steps and visit with them. Most of these children didn't have much, but they knew Glenn was their friend. He made kites (really nice, colorful kites) for many, and he fixed their bicycles or whatever else needed fixing. He loved the children.
Glenn was not a wealthy man and did not have good health, but he understood giving and practiced it..... he gave much to others.....
"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
Sunday, February 25, 2007
A Thankful Heart
A thankful heart is very blessed,
For deep within are joy and rest.
It always sees the brighter side
And by God's love is satisfied.
It doesn't struggle or pay heed
To every little hurt or need,
But knows God surely will provide,
And so in Him it will abide.
This heart has come to understand
That all we have is from God's hand.
It counts it's blessings every day.....
In big and little, in every way.
".....Giving thanks always for all things to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ....."
Ephesians 6:29 NKJ
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
For deep within are joy and rest.
It always sees the brighter side
And by God's love is satisfied.
It doesn't struggle or pay heed
To every little hurt or need,
But knows God surely will provide,
And so in Him it will abide.
This heart has come to understand
That all we have is from God's hand.
It counts it's blessings every day.....
In big and little, in every way.
".....Giving thanks always for all things to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ....."
Ephesians 6:29 NKJ
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Saturday, February 24, 2007
Hope
I find that as I serve my God,
Each weary step my foot must trod
Is lightened by His love and grace.
I know my strength He will replace.
No matter what the burden is,
The battle isn't mine, but His.
I do not need to "fight" alone
Or by myself face the unknown.
When I can't see, He knows my way.
Therefore I lean on Him each day.
For He makes order out of chaos
And restores what may be loss.
He takes my struggles and dismay
And washes weariness away.
His love restores and helps me cope.
In Him I will rejoice and hope!
"Be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart,
all you who hope in the Lord."
Psalm 32:24 NKJ
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Each weary step my foot must trod
Is lightened by His love and grace.
I know my strength He will replace.
No matter what the burden is,
The battle isn't mine, but His.
I do not need to "fight" alone
Or by myself face the unknown.
When I can't see, He knows my way.
Therefore I lean on Him each day.
For He makes order out of chaos
And restores what may be loss.
He takes my struggles and dismay
And washes weariness away.
His love restores and helps me cope.
In Him I will rejoice and hope!
"Be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart,
all you who hope in the Lord."
Psalm 32:24 NKJ
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Friday, February 23, 2007
Blessed Are The Peacemakers
Blessed are the peacemakers.....
Who break down walls by their gentle speech.
Who break through defenses by reaching out in love.
Who will not take up an offense and then repeat it to another.
Who will speak blessing to the unlovely.
Who are patient when others are angry or pushy.
Who will forgive the transgressions of others.
Who will pray for those who offend them.
Who will take time to speak positive encouragement into a negative situation
or a broken life.
"And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace."
James 3:18 KJV
"If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men."
Romans 12:18 KJV
"And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful."
Colossians 3:15 KJV
© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Who break down walls by their gentle speech.
Who break through defenses by reaching out in love.
Who will not take up an offense and then repeat it to another.
Who will speak blessing to the unlovely.
Who are patient when others are angry or pushy.
Who will forgive the transgressions of others.
Who will pray for those who offend them.
Who will take time to speak positive encouragement into a negative situation
or a broken life.
"And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace."
James 3:18 KJV
"If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men."
Romans 12:18 KJV
"And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful."
Colossians 3:15 KJV
© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Thursday, February 22, 2007
A Merry Heart
You're a great friend,
So I want to send
Some laughter your way
To brighten your day!
Bright thoughts and smiles
Will wash away trials.
They'll help you to laugh
And cut problems in half!
Don't fret or worry
Or get in a "flurry".
Don't let a grumble
Make you start to mumble.
Whistle a tune
Or melody "croon",
For laughter and song
Will help all day long.....
To make your day bright
And keep your heart light.
Problems can't tarry
When your heart is merry!
"A merry heart does good, like a medicine....."
Proverbs 17:22 NKJ
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
So I want to send
Some laughter your way
To brighten your day!
Bright thoughts and smiles
Will wash away trials.
They'll help you to laugh
And cut problems in half!
Don't fret or worry
Or get in a "flurry".
Don't let a grumble
Make you start to mumble.
Whistle a tune
Or melody "croon",
For laughter and song
Will help all day long.....
To make your day bright
And keep your heart light.
Problems can't tarry
When your heart is merry!
"A merry heart does good, like a medicine....."
Proverbs 17:22 NKJ
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Wednesday, February 21, 2007
Cookies'n Crumbs
When I bake cookies, I always want to use the finest ingredients. So when I shop I search for the best chocolate morsels and dried fruits. I buy pure extracts, rather than imitation. And when I bake my cookies, I carefully watch them so that they don't burn.
I want to have a supply of the best cookies so that I will be able to share them with others. And then when the cookies are all gone and only crumbs are left, I must replenish the supply..... for crumbs are not enough.
Reading the Word of God is like that. When God gave us His Word, He gave us His very best. His Word is full of "choice morsels" of wisdom. It is good to "stock up" so that I have a "store" of strength to draw upon. If I don't stay in the Word, pretty soon I will be in the "crumbs" stage..... not much left to go on. And I won't have anything of substance to share with others.....
If I want to be strong, I know I must "dine" in the Word and "stay full".... the Word of God is life's most gourmet food.....
"Your words were found, and I ate them, and Your word was to me the joy and rejoicing of my heart."
Jeremiah 15:16a NKJ
© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf
I want to have a supply of the best cookies so that I will be able to share them with others. And then when the cookies are all gone and only crumbs are left, I must replenish the supply..... for crumbs are not enough.
Reading the Word of God is like that. When God gave us His Word, He gave us His very best. His Word is full of "choice morsels" of wisdom. It is good to "stock up" so that I have a "store" of strength to draw upon. If I don't stay in the Word, pretty soon I will be in the "crumbs" stage..... not much left to go on. And I won't have anything of substance to share with others.....
If I want to be strong, I know I must "dine" in the Word and "stay full".... the Word of God is life's most gourmet food.....
"Your words were found, and I ate them, and Your word was to me the joy and rejoicing of my heart."
Jeremiah 15:16a NKJ
© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Tuesday, February 20, 2007
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
Monday, February 19, 2007
Presidents' Day
THANK YOU, MR. PRESIDENT
Mr. President, I would like to convey
My thanks to you this Presidents' Day,
For bearing the load of leading this nation,
For giving your life without "break" or vacation.
May God continue to help you stand strong
And give you much wisdom against all that's wrong.
May He be your Shield and your Buckler each day,
May His angels protect you in every way.
No one can guess just how heavy your load
Nor know just how difficult might be your road.
May God give you courage as you forge ahead.
May you hear His voice and by His hand be led.
© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Mr. President, I would like to convey
My thanks to you this Presidents' Day,
For bearing the load of leading this nation,
For giving your life without "break" or vacation.
May God continue to help you stand strong
And give you much wisdom against all that's wrong.
May He be your Shield and your Buckler each day,
May His angels protect you in every way.
No one can guess just how heavy your load
Nor know just how difficult might be your road.
May God give you courage as you forge ahead.
May you hear His voice and by His hand be led.
© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sunday, February 18, 2007
More Than Enough
If you are hurting
And life has been rough,
Always remember...
He's more than enough.
If your job is o'erwhelming
And you're tired of the "guff",
Ask Jesus to guide you...
He's more than enough.
If your finance is down
And times are real tough,
He's your provider...
He's more than enough,.
If you are weary
Of everyday "stuff",
In Him you'll find answers...
He's more than enough.
"And He said to me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness."
II Corinthians 12:9 KJV
"And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work."
II Corinthians 9:8 KJV
© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf
And life has been rough,
Always remember...
He's more than enough.
If your job is o'erwhelming
And you're tired of the "guff",
Ask Jesus to guide you...
He's more than enough.
If your finance is down
And times are real tough,
He's your provider...
He's more than enough,.
If you are weary
Of everyday "stuff",
In Him you'll find answers...
He's more than enough.
"And He said to me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness."
II Corinthians 12:9 KJV
"And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work."
II Corinthians 9:8 KJV
© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sunday, February 11, 2007
A Great Lady
In Tribute To My Mother
Elsie Lena Franzel
May 4, 1906 - February 11, 2007
When asked for her thoughts on just how to live,
She had some really good answers to give.
The first one was "Do what you know is right."
She lived by this daily with all of her might.
Working and "serving" wherever she was,
She tirelessly gave to others because...
She just couldn't seem to do any less.
She wouldn't ignore one who might have distress.
She often said, "Live so you'll have no regrets."
This was just one of her life's sermonettes.
By the work of her hands and her actions each day
Her life spoke volumes of wisdom to weigh.
She may have been small... the shortest of all,
But in memory she always will stand very tall.
She never had wealth but lived her life well.
She leaves rich reminiscence to tell and re-tell.
© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Elsie Lena Franzel
May 4, 1906 - February 11, 2007
When asked for her thoughts on just how to live,
She had some really good answers to give.
The first one was "Do what you know is right."
She lived by this daily with all of her might.
Working and "serving" wherever she was,
She tirelessly gave to others because...
She just couldn't seem to do any less.
She wouldn't ignore one who might have distress.
She often said, "Live so you'll have no regrets."
This was just one of her life's sermonettes.
By the work of her hands and her actions each day
Her life spoke volumes of wisdom to weigh.
She may have been small... the shortest of all,
But in memory she always will stand very tall.
She never had wealth but lived her life well.
She leaves rich reminiscence to tell and re-tell.
© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Saturday, February 10, 2007
Stained Glass
The mosaic of a life is as stained glass.....
Pieces fitted together by the Master's hand.....
Colors carefully placed in unique design, made to be transparent.....
The beauty of the finished design can only be discovered
when His light shines from within
When that life is filled with His light the brilliant colors become visible, and the rich reflections fall on everyone near.....
"Your hands have made me and fashioned me....."
Psalm 119:73 NKJ
"Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven."
Matthew 5:16 NKJ
© 2003 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Pieces fitted together by the Master's hand.....
Colors carefully placed in unique design, made to be transparent.....
The beauty of the finished design can only be discovered
when His light shines from within
When that life is filled with His light the brilliant colors become visible, and the rich reflections fall on everyone near.....
"Your hands have made me and fashioned me....."
Psalm 119:73 NKJ
"Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven."
Matthew 5:16 NKJ
© 2003 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Friday, February 09, 2007
Maybe Tomorrow
The one who is lazy just doesn't like work!
He will lie down and his duties will shirk.
It's just too much effort to go get things done.
He'll "take it easy", for that is more fun!
He'll make up excuse for why he is "slow"
And tell you the reason for all of his "woe".
He has a story and uses his wit
To "fool" other people so he can just sit!
Whatever happened to gumption and grit.....
Motivation to work and not always quit?
Prosperity follows the one who is wise,
Who, when seeing a job, will quickly arise.
He will outdistance the one who is "weak"
And have many blessings about which to speak.
The work of his hands will help him to find
A meaningful life and deep peace of mind.
"The soul of a sluggard desires, and has nothing; but the soul of the diligent shall be made rich."
Proverbs 13:4 NKJ
"The sluggard is wiser in his own conceit than seven men that can render a reason."
Proverbs 26:16 NKJ
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
He will lie down and his duties will shirk.
It's just too much effort to go get things done.
He'll "take it easy", for that is more fun!
He'll make up excuse for why he is "slow"
And tell you the reason for all of his "woe".
He has a story and uses his wit
To "fool" other people so he can just sit!
Whatever happened to gumption and grit.....
Motivation to work and not always quit?
Prosperity follows the one who is wise,
Who, when seeing a job, will quickly arise.
He will outdistance the one who is "weak"
And have many blessings about which to speak.
The work of his hands will help him to find
A meaningful life and deep peace of mind.
"The soul of a sluggard desires, and has nothing; but the soul of the diligent shall be made rich."
Proverbs 13:4 NKJ
"The sluggard is wiser in his own conceit than seven men that can render a reason."
Proverbs 26:16 NKJ
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Thursday, February 08, 2007
A Grand Heritage
Listen to the "oldsters".....
To what they have to say,
For they can tell you many stories
From a bygone day.
Their memories are treasure stores
Of happenings "way back when".
History books will not divulge
How life was lived back then.
Folks were often farmers
With cattle and with field,
Who labored long and hard each day
To gain a harvest yield.
Women knitted clothes and quilts
To keep their families warm.
Children learned The Golden Rule.....
In schools this was "the norm".
People lived on what they had
And valued every dollar.
Students read and studied hard
With aim to be "a scholar".
Families were closer then.....
They prayed and worked together.
Because they usually were close-knit,
Most "storms' they then could weather.
For those who only know about
The culture of today,
It's good to delve into the past
And our heritage survey.
We should not "lose" this era
Which speaks much to us today.
Our "oldsters" had great riches
Which are really not "passe".
"The glory of young men is their strength, and the beauty of old men is their gray head (suggesting wisdom and experience)."
Proverbs 20:29 Amplified Bible
© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf
To what they have to say,
For they can tell you many stories
From a bygone day.
Their memories are treasure stores
Of happenings "way back when".
History books will not divulge
How life was lived back then.
Folks were often farmers
With cattle and with field,
Who labored long and hard each day
To gain a harvest yield.
Women knitted clothes and quilts
To keep their families warm.
Children learned The Golden Rule.....
In schools this was "the norm".
People lived on what they had
And valued every dollar.
Students read and studied hard
With aim to be "a scholar".
Families were closer then.....
They prayed and worked together.
Because they usually were close-knit,
Most "storms' they then could weather.
For those who only know about
The culture of today,
It's good to delve into the past
And our heritage survey.
We should not "lose" this era
Which speaks much to us today.
Our "oldsters" had great riches
Which are really not "passe".
"The glory of young men is their strength, and the beauty of old men is their gray head (suggesting wisdom and experience)."
Proverbs 20:29 Amplified Bible
© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Wednesday, February 07, 2007
The Turtle And The Porcupine
Snappy was a turtle,
And Snappy wasn't happy.
(He was a GROUCH!)
Porci was a porcupine
And was in trouble all the time!
(Too many QUILLS!)
Neither one could find a friend
Because they always would offend.
It isn't good to snap at others.....
Friends and neighbors, moms and brothers.
It's even worse to send a quill.
It seems to dampen ALL good will!
These little creatures bring reminder.....
Every day we should be kinder.
God has shown us through His Son
We should be kind to everyone.
"Love suffers long and is kind. Love does not behave rudely."
I Corinthinas 13:4a & 5a NKJ
© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf
And Snappy wasn't happy.
(He was a GROUCH!)
Porci was a porcupine
And was in trouble all the time!
(Too many QUILLS!)
Neither one could find a friend
Because they always would offend.
It isn't good to snap at others.....
Friends and neighbors, moms and brothers.
It's even worse to send a quill.
It seems to dampen ALL good will!
These little creatures bring reminder.....
Every day we should be kinder.
God has shown us through His Son
We should be kind to everyone.
"Love suffers long and is kind. Love does not behave rudely."
I Corinthinas 13:4a & 5a NKJ
© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Tuesday, February 06, 2007
Always With Me
When I cried out
The Lord heard my voice.
He always is with me.....
In this I rejoice!
I do not walk through
Dark paths all alone,
For that which is hidden
He will make known.
I can move forth
As I lean on His arm.
For He will steady
And keep me from harm.
He is my hope
And my joy for each day.
I will not fear,
But will trust and will pray.
"I love the Lord, because he hath heard my voice and my supplications. Because he hath inclined his ear unto me, therefore will I call upon him as long as I live."
Psalm 116:1 KJV
© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf
The Lord heard my voice.
He always is with me.....
In this I rejoice!
I do not walk through
Dark paths all alone,
For that which is hidden
He will make known.
I can move forth
As I lean on His arm.
For He will steady
And keep me from harm.
He is my hope
And my joy for each day.
I will not fear,
But will trust and will pray.
"I love the Lord, because he hath heard my voice and my supplications. Because he hath inclined his ear unto me, therefore will I call upon him as long as I live."
Psalm 116:1 KJV
© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Monday, February 05, 2007
Painted In Time
A smile in the heart brings a twinkle in the eye.
Joy deep within holds the promise of laughter.
Peace residing is reflected in softness.
Love and Kindness shine forth in warmth.
Time is the canvas upon which a life is painted.
The brush strokes are recorded there, and the
colors come forth in beauty and character.
And so a rare and unique painting over time is
created, and.....
The Master's touch makes it special.....
"For the Lord takes pleasure in His people; He will beautify the humble with salvation."
Psalm 149:4 NKJ
© 2004 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Joy deep within holds the promise of laughter.
Peace residing is reflected in softness.
Love and Kindness shine forth in warmth.
Time is the canvas upon which a life is painted.
The brush strokes are recorded there, and the
colors come forth in beauty and character.
And so a rare and unique painting over time is
created, and.....
The Master's touch makes it special.....
"For the Lord takes pleasure in His people; He will beautify the humble with salvation."
Psalm 149:4 NKJ
© 2004 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sunday, February 04, 2007
Gleaning God's Riches
If the truths of God we "glean"
To make us wise and make us keen,
As we "listen" and we learn,
The wealth of God we will discern.
As we glean and are "in tune",
Gathering insight night and noon,
Storing up God's priceless treasure
Will bring rest and endless pleasure.
What great joy and peace we find
As in Him we are "refined".
His beauty all around us lies
To delight and make us wise.
"I rejoice at Your word as one who finds great spoil."
Psalm 119:162 Amplified Bible
'"If yo seek (Wisdom) as for silver and search for skillful and godly Wisdom as for hidden treasures, then you will understand the reverent and worshipful fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of (our omniscient) God."
Proverbs 2:4-5 Amplified Bible
© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf
To make us wise and make us keen,
As we "listen" and we learn,
The wealth of God we will discern.
As we glean and are "in tune",
Gathering insight night and noon,
Storing up God's priceless treasure
Will bring rest and endless pleasure.
What great joy and peace we find
As in Him we are "refined".
His beauty all around us lies
To delight and make us wise.
"I rejoice at Your word as one who finds great spoil."
Psalm 119:162 Amplified Bible
'"If yo seek (Wisdom) as for silver and search for skillful and godly Wisdom as for hidden treasures, then you will understand the reverent and worshipful fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of (our omniscient) God."
Proverbs 2:4-5 Amplified Bible
© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Saturday, February 03, 2007
The Parking Lot Attendant
In years past I needed to take a series of allergy shots, which required my going downtown to the medical center where my doctor had his office. Next to the medical building was a parking lot and, for convenience' sake, I would park there to save time each time I went.
The man who ran the lot was tall and very unhappy looking. At first I was quite apprehensive of him. Time after time I took my car to his lot, but always he was uncommunicative, and he never smiled.
Over a period of time I noticed that he ran his lot well and gave good service to people. And he didn't seem to miss any days. He was there in the heat of summer (you could see the heat coming up off the asphalt), and he was there in the cold of winter.
So I began to greet him each time with a cheery "good morning", and then thanked him each time I left. But still there was never any trace of emotion in his eyes or in his facial expression or in his voice.
One morning when I needed to go downtown for my shot, it was very, very cold out. The temperature was in the 20-degree range and it was windy. I thought about the man in the lot, and the Lord gave me an idea.....
I put some oatmeal cookies in a plastic container for him. And then I was hoping as I drove downtown that I could get him some coffee from the coffee shop in the medical center. Now we have "take-out" coffee available everywhere, but that was not true back then.
As I pulled into the parking lot, the attendant was there, bracing himself against the wind and looking very chilled. I went into the medical center and got my allergy shot, and then I headed for the coffee shop. I told the waitress I wanted to take coffee to the parking lot fellow and asked if she could help me. She found some styrofoam cups, so I now had a hot drink to take to the man.
When I came out of the building into the parking lot, the wind was blowing so hard that I wondered if the coffee would still be hot when I gave it to him. I tried to be casual as I spoke to him..... "It's cold out here. You need something hot to drink!"
Then I handed him the cookie container..... "Here is something to go with the coffee....." There were a few awkward seconds, because he didn't know what to say. So I went on with..... "I'll get the container later. Thank you for good service."
At this point a miracle happened..... he began to smile..... only for a few moments..... but he did smile.....
I do not know what the burden was in his life that caused him to be so withdrawn and unhappy, but perhaps....... just perhaps....... he remembers that someone cared for him at some point in his life. And maybe somehow or some way it might help him to have courage at a later time when all around him is failing.....
The reward I felt at seeing him even be able to smile was so much more than the effort it took to reach out to him.....
"Just as you want men to do to you, you also do to them likewise."
Luke 6:31 NKJ
© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf
The man who ran the lot was tall and very unhappy looking. At first I was quite apprehensive of him. Time after time I took my car to his lot, but always he was uncommunicative, and he never smiled.
Over a period of time I noticed that he ran his lot well and gave good service to people. And he didn't seem to miss any days. He was there in the heat of summer (you could see the heat coming up off the asphalt), and he was there in the cold of winter.
So I began to greet him each time with a cheery "good morning", and then thanked him each time I left. But still there was never any trace of emotion in his eyes or in his facial expression or in his voice.
One morning when I needed to go downtown for my shot, it was very, very cold out. The temperature was in the 20-degree range and it was windy. I thought about the man in the lot, and the Lord gave me an idea.....
I put some oatmeal cookies in a plastic container for him. And then I was hoping as I drove downtown that I could get him some coffee from the coffee shop in the medical center. Now we have "take-out" coffee available everywhere, but that was not true back then.
As I pulled into the parking lot, the attendant was there, bracing himself against the wind and looking very chilled. I went into the medical center and got my allergy shot, and then I headed for the coffee shop. I told the waitress I wanted to take coffee to the parking lot fellow and asked if she could help me. She found some styrofoam cups, so I now had a hot drink to take to the man.
When I came out of the building into the parking lot, the wind was blowing so hard that I wondered if the coffee would still be hot when I gave it to him. I tried to be casual as I spoke to him..... "It's cold out here. You need something hot to drink!"
Then I handed him the cookie container..... "Here is something to go with the coffee....." There were a few awkward seconds, because he didn't know what to say. So I went on with..... "I'll get the container later. Thank you for good service."
At this point a miracle happened..... he began to smile..... only for a few moments..... but he did smile.....
I do not know what the burden was in his life that caused him to be so withdrawn and unhappy, but perhaps....... just perhaps....... he remembers that someone cared for him at some point in his life. And maybe somehow or some way it might help him to have courage at a later time when all around him is failing.....
The reward I felt at seeing him even be able to smile was so much more than the effort it took to reach out to him.....
"Just as you want men to do to you, you also do to them likewise."
Luke 6:31 NKJ
© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Friday, February 02, 2007
Our Nation's Defense
The "fiber" of our nation
Has become frayed
As we've let down our guard
And from prayer we have strayed.
We cannot allow
Our defense to be down,
Nor let new ideas
Our heritage drown.
We must stand strong
For what we believe,
Not letting dissenters
Their evil achieve.
God is our strength
And our mighty defender.
In Him we will trust,
And we will not surrender!
He is our shield
And our buckler today.
E'en now we'll stand strong
If in prayer we stay.
"Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord; and the people whom he hath chosen for his own inheritance."
Psalm 33:12 KJV
"I exhort therefore, that first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; for kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty."
I Timothy 2:1-2 KJV
© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Has become frayed
As we've let down our guard
And from prayer we have strayed.
We cannot allow
Our defense to be down,
Nor let new ideas
Our heritage drown.
We must stand strong
For what we believe,
Not letting dissenters
Their evil achieve.
God is our strength
And our mighty defender.
In Him we will trust,
And we will not surrender!
He is our shield
And our buckler today.
E'en now we'll stand strong
If in prayer we stay.
"Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord; and the people whom he hath chosen for his own inheritance."
Psalm 33:12 KJV
"I exhort therefore, that first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; for kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty."
I Timothy 2:1-2 KJV
© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Thursday, February 01, 2007
A Quiet Heart
A quiet heart is soft and gentle..... and is very beautiful.
It has learned to reside in that place of peace and "resting" which is the presence of God.
A quiet heart will practice love and and choose peace and joy as it's companions.
A quiet heart thinks well of others.
It will not waver..... or struggle.... or fear, but will trust.
It will speak softly and carefully, and it's words will be healing words.
It will be able to see clearly and hear accurately, for it is sensitive to the Spirit of God.
A quiet heart is very beautiful in the sight of God.
"He leads me beside the still and restful waters."
Psalm 23:2 Amplified Bible
"Let not yours be the (merely) external adorning with (elaborate) interweaving and knotting of the hair, the wearing of jewelry, or changes of clothes; but let it be the inward adorning and beauty of the hidden person of the heart, with the incorruptible and unfading charm of a gentle and peaceful spirit, which (is not anxious or wrought up, but) is very precious in the sight of God."
I Peter 3:3-4 Amplified Bible
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
It has learned to reside in that place of peace and "resting" which is the presence of God.
A quiet heart will practice love and and choose peace and joy as it's companions.
A quiet heart thinks well of others.
It will not waver..... or struggle.... or fear, but will trust.
It will speak softly and carefully, and it's words will be healing words.
It will be able to see clearly and hear accurately, for it is sensitive to the Spirit of God.
A quiet heart is very beautiful in the sight of God.
"He leads me beside the still and restful waters."
Psalm 23:2 Amplified Bible
"Let not yours be the (merely) external adorning with (elaborate) interweaving and knotting of the hair, the wearing of jewelry, or changes of clothes; but let it be the inward adorning and beauty of the hidden person of the heart, with the incorruptible and unfading charm of a gentle and peaceful spirit, which (is not anxious or wrought up, but) is very precious in the sight of God."
I Peter 3:3-4 Amplified Bible
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
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