It just is not fun to be pushed to one side
Or stuck in one place, e'en though we have tried.
It's good to "re-group" and think all this through.
This may be God saying He has something new.
Unless God has led us to stay in that place,
Then we should pray for leading... and grace.
He's faithful to show us each step of the way
And help us make change as we seek to obey.
We may need fresh outlook or attitude change.
Whatever the need He will help us long-range.
He has the answers which we cannot see.
We can lean on His arm, for He holds he key.
"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
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Friday, February 29, 2008
Thursday, February 28, 2008
My Hiding Place
Lord, You are my hiding place,
Where I may come to rest,
Where I find peace and comfort
When I'm weary and hard-pressed.
You are joy and happiness
In the midst of pain,
An oasis of refreshing...
To offset daily "drain".
You bring balance and perspective
Which I sorely need,
Guiding me through circumstance
When I'm not "up to speed".
In Your presence I'm renewed.
My time with You is sweet.
And then I'm able to go on...
By Your strength I am complete.
"Thou art my hiding place; thou shalt preserve me from trouble; thou shalt compass me about with songs of deliverance."
Psalm 32:7 KJV
© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Where I may come to rest,
Where I find peace and comfort
When I'm weary and hard-pressed.
You are joy and happiness
In the midst of pain,
An oasis of refreshing...
To offset daily "drain".
You bring balance and perspective
Which I sorely need,
Guiding me through circumstance
When I'm not "up to speed".
In Your presence I'm renewed.
My time with You is sweet.
And then I'm able to go on...
By Your strength I am complete.
"Thou art my hiding place; thou shalt preserve me from trouble; thou shalt compass me about with songs of deliverance."
Psalm 32:7 KJV
© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
God's Season Of Change
A Prophecy
February 7, 2008
God is making change. This is a period of transition...
Some things are ending, some things are "getting fixed" so that we can go on. The "old" is passing away. We should not try to linger in the old place but move with the new flow and momentum which God is giving us. Old doors will shut. New doors will open.
He is freeing some of long-term burdens. He is freeing up time for those who will listen and wish to serve Him. He will answer questions of long standing - perhaps not as we expect but in a way which will facilitate our moving forward in His purpose.
Situations which have been out of balance will find new balance. God will give insight where issues have been clouded.
Be at peace with what He is doing, but stay alert, and you will surely see God moving in your midst.
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
February 7, 2008
God is making change. This is a period of transition...
Some things are ending, some things are "getting fixed" so that we can go on. The "old" is passing away. We should not try to linger in the old place but move with the new flow and momentum which God is giving us. Old doors will shut. New doors will open.
He is freeing some of long-term burdens. He is freeing up time for those who will listen and wish to serve Him. He will answer questions of long standing - perhaps not as we expect but in a way which will facilitate our moving forward in His purpose.
Situations which have been out of balance will find new balance. God will give insight where issues have been clouded.
Be at peace with what He is doing, but stay alert, and you will surely see God moving in your midst.
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Short Circuits
Sometimes in our lives, because of circumstances or difficulties, "short circuits" begin to happen. Events that happen to us sometimes cause "breakdown" of areas in our personalities and emotions, our thought patterns and spirits. And then our perspective becomes imbalanced or warped or unclear. These "short circuits" cause malfunction and they can rob us of love and joy and even our health and relationships. They sometimes are subtle and happen just a little bit at a time, going unnoticed at first, but nevertheless having impact.
Life is full of challenges and difficulties, but it is important to recognize the enemy's intent in these times and not let him rob us in any way. Whatever our circumstance, God is able to heal and restore us and to keep us balanced. His power is more than equal to any short circuits which happen in our lives.
In Him we have the victory!!!
"Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world."
I John 4:4 KJV
© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Life is full of challenges and difficulties, but it is important to recognize the enemy's intent in these times and not let him rob us in any way. Whatever our circumstance, God is able to heal and restore us and to keep us balanced. His power is more than equal to any short circuits which happen in our lives.
In Him we have the victory!!!
"Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world."
I John 4:4 KJV
© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Monday, February 25, 2008
Neighbors
I reached out to a neighbor...
And heard, "That's nice of you."
I told her that I really felt,
"It's just the thing to do!"
Neighbors should show caring
When they see a real need.
All I did was feed their cat
And said I'd intercede.
Her brother's life was "on the line".
He truly needed prayer.
I could have looked the other way
And chosen not to care...
But people need each other.
It's right to be aware
And lend a helping hand...
To cheer them on by "being there".
"Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself."
Romans 13:9 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
And heard, "That's nice of you."
I told her that I really felt,
"It's just the thing to do!"
Neighbors should show caring
When they see a real need.
All I did was feed their cat
And said I'd intercede.
Her brother's life was "on the line".
He truly needed prayer.
I could have looked the other way
And chosen not to care...
But people need each other.
It's right to be aware
And lend a helping hand...
To cheer them on by "being there".
"Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself."
Romans 13:9 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sunday, February 24, 2008
Eternal Treasure
Earthly goods have no real worth...
To heav'nly life cannot give birth.
Heaven's treasure is priceless gain...
The highest prize we can attain.
All we have will pale and dim
As we see Christ and worship Him.
What joy will come within the soul
As we shall reach our heavenly goal.
No more tears and no more strife,
Which often touch our present life,
But fellowship before the throne
With Christ and those who are His own.
"If we suffer, we shall also reign with him....."
II Timothy 2:12 KJV
© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf
To heav'nly life cannot give birth.
Heaven's treasure is priceless gain...
The highest prize we can attain.
All we have will pale and dim
As we see Christ and worship Him.
What joy will come within the soul
As we shall reach our heavenly goal.
No more tears and no more strife,
Which often touch our present life,
But fellowship before the throne
With Christ and those who are His own.
"If we suffer, we shall also reign with him....."
II Timothy 2:12 KJV
© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Saturday, February 23, 2008
My Very Best
A Children's Poem
I must do my very best
In everything I try.
When others notice what I do
Then I can tell them "why".
Everything I do
Should be orderly and nice.
If I get it right the first time,
I won't have to do it twice!
I'm really going to work at this
While I'm a young beginner.
And later on as I grow up
Then I will be a winner!
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
I must do my very best
In everything I try.
When others notice what I do
Then I can tell them "why".
Everything I do
Should be orderly and nice.
If I get it right the first time,
I won't have to do it twice!
I'm really going to work at this
While I'm a young beginner.
And later on as I grow up
Then I will be a winner!
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Friday, February 22, 2008
God's Comfort
When you have suffered loss
Or you're weary in travail...
When you have sought solutions
But still to no avail...
God will help you in this time.
He will hear your prayers.
He will lift your heavy heart
From sorrow and from cares.
He brings comfort beyond words
Deep within the soul.
His compassion and His strength
Bring peace against life's toll.
May He lift your heavy burdens
And wash weariness away.
May He give you calm assurance
And bless you day-to-day.
"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
Or you're weary in travail...
When you have sought solutions
But still to no avail...
God will help you in this time.
He will hear your prayers.
He will lift your heavy heart
From sorrow and from cares.
He brings comfort beyond words
Deep within the soul.
His compassion and His strength
Bring peace against life's toll.
May He lift your heavy burdens
And wash weariness away.
May He give you calm assurance
And bless you day-to-day.
"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
Thursday, February 21, 2008
A Listening Ear
Sometimes the Lord will send up a "red flag",
And we "drag our feet" and some time then will lag
Before we respond to the words that He said,
Forgetting, or doing "our own thing" instead.
Jesus is faithful to guard and to guide
If we will just listen and forego our pride.
We may not know just what He has in mind,
But He'll make our path clear and quite well-defined.
To wait on His voice and to heed His clear call
Often will save us from what could befall.
To follow His lead when we're facing a test
Will save us much grief and prove to be best.
"My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me..."
John 10:27 KJV
© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf
And we "drag our feet" and some time then will lag
Before we respond to the words that He said,
Forgetting, or doing "our own thing" instead.
Jesus is faithful to guard and to guide
If we will just listen and forego our pride.
We may not know just what He has in mind,
But He'll make our path clear and quite well-defined.
To wait on His voice and to heed His clear call
Often will save us from what could befall.
To follow His lead when we're facing a test
Will save us much grief and prove to be best.
"My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me..."
John 10:27 KJV
© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
Walk Softly
As we travel down life's paths,
We form mindsets and ideas.
But in spite of what we've learned,
We may not have life's panaceas.
(Walk softly.)
Till we've lived through many seasons
We do not have full perspective.
Facing hardships, working long,
Cause us to be more reflective.
(Learning to walk softly...)
Experience teaches us to pray
And humbly seek our God each day.
For this is where we start to "see"
And "eye-scales" start to fall away.
(Our footsteps soften.)
Hindsight brings an overview
And shows us who we need to be.
Over time we change and grow
And then we see reality...
(And the need to walk softly.)
"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
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
We form mindsets and ideas.
But in spite of what we've learned,
We may not have life's panaceas.
(Walk softly.)
Till we've lived through many seasons
We do not have full perspective.
Facing hardships, working long,
Cause us to be more reflective.
(Learning to walk softly...)
Experience teaches us to pray
And humbly seek our God each day.
For this is where we start to "see"
And "eye-scales" start to fall away.
(Our footsteps soften.)
Hindsight brings an overview
And shows us who we need to be.
Over time we change and grow
And then we see reality...
(And the need to walk softly.)
"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
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Enough Space
Whenever I drive on highways or freeways I try to be especially aware of what is around me and how much "space" I have. Twice in one morning others got in my space and compromised my safety.
I was driving on the freeway in the right lane when all of a sudden, in my rear view mirror, I saw a car shift into my lane behind me. This car was dangerously close and I thought he was going to hit me. He had a transport truck following right on his bumper and was trying to get out of the way of the truck. But just as he shifted in behind me traffic in front of me slowed and I had to hit the brakes. I fully expected to be rear-ended, but God kept me safe.
That same morning, coming back home on the freeway I was again travelling in the right lane, this time with a loaded dump truck and trailer in the lane to my left. I was keeping an eye on the dump truck when all of a sudden I realized a transport truck with a long flatbed was passing me on the right... ON THE SHOULDER OF THE ROAD. He had come up behind me and I didn't see him coming. Now I was caught between two large trucks. There wasn't enough space for the flatbed truck to pass, but somehow God made space. A moment or two later I saw this same truck jump lanes up ahead and nearly hit several other vehicles. Surely God had set angels all around me!
Even as in everyday situations, when we see potential problems up ahead usually we can make adjustment. But when the potential hazard is coming from behind we are much more vulnerable. We just may not see the problem coming, and we are totally dependent upon God for our safety.
Every morning I pray over my car and all the roads where I will travel and ask God to keep me safe. He has faithfully answered that prayer many times for me. He has provided "space" where there was not enough space each time danger has come near!
When we call upon Him He will answer and keep us safe. We have an awesome God!!!
"He shall call upon me, and I will answer him: I will be with him in trouble: I will deliver him, and honour him."
Psalm 91:15 KJV
© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf
I was driving on the freeway in the right lane when all of a sudden, in my rear view mirror, I saw a car shift into my lane behind me. This car was dangerously close and I thought he was going to hit me. He had a transport truck following right on his bumper and was trying to get out of the way of the truck. But just as he shifted in behind me traffic in front of me slowed and I had to hit the brakes. I fully expected to be rear-ended, but God kept me safe.
That same morning, coming back home on the freeway I was again travelling in the right lane, this time with a loaded dump truck and trailer in the lane to my left. I was keeping an eye on the dump truck when all of a sudden I realized a transport truck with a long flatbed was passing me on the right... ON THE SHOULDER OF THE ROAD. He had come up behind me and I didn't see him coming. Now I was caught between two large trucks. There wasn't enough space for the flatbed truck to pass, but somehow God made space. A moment or two later I saw this same truck jump lanes up ahead and nearly hit several other vehicles. Surely God had set angels all around me!
Even as in everyday situations, when we see potential problems up ahead usually we can make adjustment. But when the potential hazard is coming from behind we are much more vulnerable. We just may not see the problem coming, and we are totally dependent upon God for our safety.
Every morning I pray over my car and all the roads where I will travel and ask God to keep me safe. He has faithfully answered that prayer many times for me. He has provided "space" where there was not enough space each time danger has come near!
When we call upon Him He will answer and keep us safe. We have an awesome God!!!
"He shall call upon me, and I will answer him: I will be with him in trouble: I will deliver him, and honour him."
Psalm 91:15 KJV
© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Monday, February 18, 2008
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 17, 2008
Tiny Trees
Children are as "seedlings"...
As tiny growing trees,
With tender, spreading boughs
Swaying in the breeze.
With nurture they will grow strong roots,
With trunk and limb of swelling size.
And they will grow in inner strength
As of wisdom they apprise.
As they grow in stature
And mature into strong trees,
They'll give shade or bear good fruit.
They lives will surely please.
In every season of their growth
Each tree will be a blessing.
And by the nature of their lives
God's praise will be expressing.
"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
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
As tiny growing trees,
With tender, spreading boughs
Swaying in the breeze.
With nurture they will grow strong roots,
With trunk and limb of swelling size.
And they will grow in inner strength
As of wisdom they apprise.
As they grow in stature
And mature into strong trees,
They'll give shade or bear good fruit.
They lives will surely please.
In every season of their growth
Each tree will be a blessing.
And by the nature of their lives
God's praise will be expressing.
"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
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Saturday, February 16, 2008
Life Seasons
Seasons of waiting, seasons of rest,
Seasons of growth, or seasons which test,
Seasons of blossom, seasons of glory...
Each of these seasons will speak it's own story.
Each one in it's time will build us and shape us.
When God brings a season, it will be a "plus".
He is our Guide, and we're not flying blind.
We're "safe" in our seasons when by Him they're signed.
In each of His seasons is much we can learn.
The wisdom He gives is a rich prize to earn.
In this we are thankful and take time to pause.
All of God's seasons are for a good cause.
"My times are in thy hand..."
Psalm 31:15 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Seasons of growth, or seasons which test,
Seasons of blossom, seasons of glory...
Each of these seasons will speak it's own story.
Each one in it's time will build us and shape us.
When God brings a season, it will be a "plus".
He is our Guide, and we're not flying blind.
We're "safe" in our seasons when by Him they're signed.
In each of His seasons is much we can learn.
The wisdom He gives is a rich prize to earn.
In this we are thankful and take time to pause.
All of God's seasons are for a good cause.
"My times are in thy hand..."
Psalm 31:15 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Friday, February 15, 2008
Friendship's Warm Smile
The blessings of a friendship warm
Bring joys which offset trial and storm.
It's laughter and bright treasure "store"
Are as a cheerful reservoir...
Of memories which bring much joy
And to one's spirit are a "buoy".
Friendship brings ability
To smile and have tranquility.
How rich the bond in friendship's gift!
How sweet it's loving, gentle "lift"...
Like a fragrant potpourri
Or pretty, lilting melody...
Bringing many smiles within,
Causing one to have a grin.
For friendship rests within the heart
And precious blessings will impart.
"A friend loveth at all times..."
Proverbs 17:17 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Bring joys which offset trial and storm.
It's laughter and bright treasure "store"
Are as a cheerful reservoir...
Of memories which bring much joy
And to one's spirit are a "buoy".
Friendship brings ability
To smile and have tranquility.
How rich the bond in friendship's gift!
How sweet it's loving, gentle "lift"...
Like a fragrant potpourri
Or pretty, lilting melody...
Bringing many smiles within,
Causing one to have a grin.
For friendship rests within the heart
And precious blessings will impart.
"A friend loveth at all times..."
Proverbs 17:17 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Thursday, February 14, 2008
Heart Prayer
Lord, give me a heart that is pure and true-blue,
One that is gentle and loving clear through,
Transparent and holy, peace-loving and kind,
Given to prayer and "service"-inclined.
Let harmony, peace and quietness "rest",
Let graciousness flow to meet every test,
With mercy and tenderness shown unto all,
Rejoicing in You in things big and small.
"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance..."
Galatians 5:22-23 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
One that is gentle and loving clear through,
Transparent and holy, peace-loving and kind,
Given to prayer and "service"-inclined.
Let harmony, peace and quietness "rest",
Let graciousness flow to meet every test,
With mercy and tenderness shown unto all,
Rejoicing in You in things big and small.
"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance..."
Galatians 5:22-23 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
Love Encourages
Everybody needs to know
That someone somewhere cares for them.
Though that one be near or far
Their love is as a precious gem.
It's presence is as gold and myrrh,
It's worth is more than can be told...
A precious gift between two hearts
Which can't be bought and won't be sold.
It sparks new life and buoys one up,
Bringing joy and warmth within.
It often brings the courage
Which enables one to "soar" and win.
That one who's loved will often smile,
Knowing there is one who cares,
For love expressed in little ways
A priceless crown of beauty wears.
"A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity."
Proverbs 17:17 KJV
© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf
That someone somewhere cares for them.
Though that one be near or far
Their love is as a precious gem.
It's presence is as gold and myrrh,
It's worth is more than can be told...
A precious gift between two hearts
Which can't be bought and won't be sold.
It sparks new life and buoys one up,
Bringing joy and warmth within.
It often brings the courage
Which enables one to "soar" and win.
That one who's loved will often smile,
Knowing there is one who cares,
For love expressed in little ways
A priceless crown of beauty wears.
"A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity."
Proverbs 17:17 KJV
© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
Heirlooms Of Worth
What heritage can I leave
When my days and hours are spent?
Will the message of my life
Change the world or "make a dent"?
Will the "heirlooms" of my life
Have some value or some worth?
Will the seeds which I have planted
In someone's life give birth?
My prayers are that I will not miss
The doors that God would ope,
To really make a difference,
To bring light and to bring hope.
God brings opportunity
To change the world for good.
I want to leave an "imprint"
And accomplish all I should.
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
When my days and hours are spent?
Will the message of my life
Change the world or "make a dent"?
Will the "heirlooms" of my life
Have some value or some worth?
Will the seeds which I have planted
In someone's life give birth?
My prayers are that I will not miss
The doors that God would ope,
To really make a difference,
To bring light and to bring hope.
God brings opportunity
To change the world for good.
I want to leave an "imprint"
And accomplish all I should.
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Monday, February 11, 2008
A Great Lady
In Memory Of 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
Sunday, February 10, 2008
Love Can
Love can heal a broken heart
And wash away a tear
...or two... or three.
Love breaks down the barriers
And helps us with our fear...
...and sets us free.
Love can fill an empty heart
Where loneliness has been...
...day-to-day.
Love restores and gives new life,
Bringing joy and warmth again...
...to stay ...to stay.
Love transforms and changes lives,
Causing a "new day" to dawn...
...refreshing as the dew.
Love is the great healer, bringing
Bright new hope to build upon...
...for me... for you.
"Many waters cannot quench love, neither can the floods drown it..."
Song of Solomon 8:7 KJV
"There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear..."
I John 4:18 KJV
© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf
And wash away a tear
...or two... or three.
Love breaks down the barriers
And helps us with our fear...
...and sets us free.
Love can fill an empty heart
Where loneliness has been...
...day-to-day.
Love restores and gives new life,
Bringing joy and warmth again...
...to stay ...to stay.
Love transforms and changes lives,
Causing a "new day" to dawn...
...refreshing as the dew.
Love is the great healer, bringing
Bright new hope to build upon...
...for me... for you.
"Many waters cannot quench love, neither can the floods drown it..."
Song of Solomon 8:7 KJV
"There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear..."
I John 4:18 KJV
© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Saturday, February 09, 2008
Staying Focused
God gives direction and guides by His hand
To help us accomplish those things He has planned.
We must be careful lest purpose is lost.
When purpose is gone, then lives are storm-tossed.
If focus is blurred or sometimes delayed
And we don't complete the plans He has made,
We may have missed His blessings for us.
Victories in lives are forfeited thus.
God is our helper... to keep us on track.
In Him is no want or wandering or lack.
He is our strength, our shield and our friend.
He gives us purpose... on Him we depend.
"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
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
To help us accomplish those things He has planned.
We must be careful lest purpose is lost.
When purpose is gone, then lives are storm-tossed.
If focus is blurred or sometimes delayed
And we don't complete the plans He has made,
We may have missed His blessings for us.
Victories in lives are forfeited thus.
God is our helper... to keep us on track.
In Him is no want or wandering or lack.
He is our strength, our shield and our friend.
He gives us purpose... on Him we depend.
"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
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Friday, February 08, 2008
Manna
Gentle manna from the Lord,
Provision for our every need,
Sustenance from heaven above
Our spirit and our soul to feed...
Gift and favor from God's hand,
Benefit in rich supply...
His faithfulness will never fail.
As we wait He will draw nigh.
Manna is divinely given.
We do not know and can't perceive
How it becomes reality.
And yet it comes when we believe.
"And when the children of Israel saw it, they said one to another, It is manna: for they wist not what it was. And Moses said unto them, This is the bread which the Lord hath given you to eat."
Exodus 16:15 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Provision for our every need,
Sustenance from heaven above
Our spirit and our soul to feed...
Gift and favor from God's hand,
Benefit in rich supply...
His faithfulness will never fail.
As we wait He will draw nigh.
Manna is divinely given.
We do not know and can't perceive
How it becomes reality.
And yet it comes when we believe.
"And when the children of Israel saw it, they said one to another, It is manna: for they wist not what it was. And Moses said unto them, This is the bread which the Lord hath given you to eat."
Exodus 16:15 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Thursday, February 07, 2008
A Heart Full Of Flowers
In the landscape of the heart...
Are there flowers growing there?
Will the seeds which have been planted
Thrive and bring good blooms to bear?
If the seedlings are well tended
They will have strong root and stem.
With "watering" and careful nurture
Love will blossom forth from them,
Blessing others by their beauty,
Spilling fragrance all around.
When the Lord works in the garden
Love and kindness will abound.
"A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things."
Matthew 12:35 KJV
© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Are there flowers growing there?
Will the seeds which have been planted
Thrive and bring good blooms to bear?
If the seedlings are well tended
They will have strong root and stem.
With "watering" and careful nurture
Love will blossom forth from them,
Blessing others by their beauty,
Spilling fragrance all around.
When the Lord works in the garden
Love and kindness will abound.
"A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things."
Matthew 12:35 KJV
© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Wednesday, February 06, 2008
The Blood Of Jesus
Just one drop of blood
Was enough for all time
To redeem man from sins...
Ugly stain, spot and grime.
One drop of His blood
Was so filled with power,
It reached from the cross
Into this very hour.
As fresh as the day
It was shed on the "tree"
Is the power of His "healing"
For you and for me.
Just one drop of blood,
Spilled out with great love,
Brings eternal life
From the Father above.
"For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell; and having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth or things in heaven."
Colossians 1:19-20 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Was enough for all time
To redeem man from sins...
Ugly stain, spot and grime.
One drop of His blood
Was so filled with power,
It reached from the cross
Into this very hour.
As fresh as the day
It was shed on the "tree"
Is the power of His "healing"
For you and for me.
Just one drop of blood,
Spilled out with great love,
Brings eternal life
From the Father above.
"For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell; and having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth or things in heaven."
Colossians 1:19-20 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Tuesday, February 05, 2008
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 04, 2008
A Safe Course
How much we need the Lord
To help us know what's right,
To help us be discerning
And for righteousness to fight.
How much we need the Lord
To chart for us a course
Of wisdom, truth and balance
And to be our constant source.
For He will "steer our ship"
Through danger and through toil.
He will guard our "borders"
And our enemies will foil.
He will hear our pleas
If on Him we will rely.
He will be our strength
When to Him our hearts draw nigh.
"Every way of a man is right in his own eyes..."
Proverbs 21:2 KJV
"The counsel of the Lord standeth for ever, the thoughts of his heart to all generations. Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord; and the people whom he hath chosen for his own inheritance."
Psalm 33:11-12 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
To help us know what's right,
To help us be discerning
And for righteousness to fight.
How much we need the Lord
To chart for us a course
Of wisdom, truth and balance
And to be our constant source.
For He will "steer our ship"
Through danger and through toil.
He will guard our "borders"
And our enemies will foil.
He will hear our pleas
If on Him we will rely.
He will be our strength
When to Him our hearts draw nigh.
"Every way of a man is right in his own eyes..."
Proverbs 21:2 KJV
"The counsel of the Lord standeth for ever, the thoughts of his heart to all generations. Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord; and the people whom he hath chosen for his own inheritance."
Psalm 33:11-12 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sunday, February 03, 2008
A Treasure Store
The faithful man of God
In righteousness will walk.
The conduct of his heart
Is reflected in his talk.
Wisdom and discernment
Form an excellence which shows.
He is richly filled
With a joy that overflows.
His strength is found in God
As he reads the Word and prays.
He takes to heart God's leading
And in close communion stays.
How beautiful the life
Of a man who serves the Lord,
For he has boundless riches.
God's treasures there are stored.
"But his delight is in the law of the Lord; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper."
Psalm 1:2-3 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
In righteousness will walk.
The conduct of his heart
Is reflected in his talk.
Wisdom and discernment
Form an excellence which shows.
He is richly filled
With a joy that overflows.
His strength is found in God
As he reads the Word and prays.
He takes to heart God's leading
And in close communion stays.
How beautiful the life
Of a man who serves the Lord,
For he has boundless riches.
God's treasures there are stored.
"But his delight is in the law of the Lord; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper."
Psalm 1:2-3 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Saturday, February 02, 2008
Heaven's Harmony
Music in my spirit flows,
Harmony of worship grows,
Bursting forth in songs of praise.
Constantly the music plays!
Hearing many angel voices,
Deep within my soul rejoices,
Causing me to want to sing
And to God all glory bring!
Heaven's music, rare and sweet,
Is a place of prized retreat,
Where I may step into God's presence,
Pause and rest and give Him reverence.
"And he hath put a new song in my mouth, even praise unto our God..."
Psalm 40:3 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Harmony of worship grows,
Bursting forth in songs of praise.
Constantly the music plays!
Hearing many angel voices,
Deep within my soul rejoices,
Causing me to want to sing
And to God all glory bring!
Heaven's music, rare and sweet,
Is a place of prized retreat,
Where I may step into God's presence,
Pause and rest and give Him reverence.
"And he hath put a new song in my mouth, even praise unto our God..."
Psalm 40:3 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Friday, February 01, 2008
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
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