As we live and work and play
Sometimes things will go astray.
Relationships get jarred and frayed
And sometimes need some tender "aid".
Little tensions are a sign
Which, gone unchecked, can cause "decline".
Diplomacy and loving care
Will usually bring some good repair.
Relationship is as a gift
And sometimes needs a little "lift",
To be given tender care
And be gently wrapped in prayer.
"Love never fails..."
I Corinthians 13:8 NKJ
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Mountaintops
If we want to climb a mountain
We must learn to be sure-footed.
We cannot reach the top
Until we're wise and deeply-rooted.
Footsteps taken hastily,
Without consideration,
Can lead us into problems
And be of short duration.
God keeps us in the valley
Until His perfect time,
And sets us in high places
Only when we've learned to climb.
He shapes us for the narrow ledge
And keeps us on "the cutting edge".
By His awesome love and grace
We can reach the highest place.
"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."
Psalm 18:32-33 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
We must learn to be sure-footed.
We cannot reach the top
Until we're wise and deeply-rooted.
Footsteps taken hastily,
Without consideration,
Can lead us into problems
And be of short duration.
God keeps us in the valley
Until His perfect time,
And sets us in high places
Only when we've learned to climb.
He shapes us for the narrow ledge
And keeps us on "the cutting edge".
By His awesome love and grace
We can reach the highest place.
"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."
Psalm 18:32-33 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
City Kids
When I was a little girl (five years old) my parents bought a farm, and they then proceeded to buy some animals and chickens. Dad bought a cow so that we would have milk, and we named her "Betsy".
Well, Betsy had a calf. As it was evident that she was getting close to having her calf, my dad told my brothers to check out the situation when they came home from school each day. (Two of my brothers were in high school and one was in grade school). If she didn't have her calf near our barn, Dad at least wanted my brothers to find out where she was before it got dark.
As it happened, Betsy had her calf way out in a pasture area which was not close to our barn. My brothers found her with the calf and they decided that they needed to bring the calf home. At this point it was very obvious that we were just a bunch of "city kids". If cows could speak, I think Betsy would have said, "Look, I've had this calf all by myself and I can certainly see that she gets home without YOUR help."
My brothers decided that if they took the wheelbarrow out there they could put the calf in and bring it home that way. Well, Betsy did NOT think that was a great idea. She was reallly fussing. Picking the calf up was not all that easy, and keeping it in the wheelbarrow was a very humorous scene. The calf would try to stand up and the wheelbarrow would tip first to one side and then to the other, with my brothers trying to keep the calf from falling out. Betsy was following along and just making no end of fuss.
We didn't get very far down the path before my brothers decided that this was not going to work. So they helped the calf out of the wheelbarrow, .. a very clumsy operation... with the calf fighting them all the way. Now this is the best part... the calf stood there for a moment or two, rather sprawl-legged, and then proceeded to follow Betsy the rest of the way home, walking on it's own... somewhat unsteadily, but nevertheless on it's own.
Being on the farm was great fun, but we had much to learn!
© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Well, Betsy had a calf. As it was evident that she was getting close to having her calf, my dad told my brothers to check out the situation when they came home from school each day. (Two of my brothers were in high school and one was in grade school). If she didn't have her calf near our barn, Dad at least wanted my brothers to find out where she was before it got dark.
As it happened, Betsy had her calf way out in a pasture area which was not close to our barn. My brothers found her with the calf and they decided that they needed to bring the calf home. At this point it was very obvious that we were just a bunch of "city kids". If cows could speak, I think Betsy would have said, "Look, I've had this calf all by myself and I can certainly see that she gets home without YOUR help."
My brothers decided that if they took the wheelbarrow out there they could put the calf in and bring it home that way. Well, Betsy did NOT think that was a great idea. She was reallly fussing. Picking the calf up was not all that easy, and keeping it in the wheelbarrow was a very humorous scene. The calf would try to stand up and the wheelbarrow would tip first to one side and then to the other, with my brothers trying to keep the calf from falling out. Betsy was following along and just making no end of fuss.
We didn't get very far down the path before my brothers decided that this was not going to work. So they helped the calf out of the wheelbarrow, .. a very clumsy operation... with the calf fighting them all the way. Now this is the best part... the calf stood there for a moment or two, rather sprawl-legged, and then proceeded to follow Betsy the rest of the way home, walking on it's own... somewhat unsteadily, but nevertheless on it's own.
Being on the farm was great fun, but we had much to learn!
© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Monday, July 28, 2008
God's People
God has people in this land
Who for righteousness will stand -
Those who see through Satan's shield
And to his lies will never yield.
God's own people are not blind.
Their beliefs are well-defined.
They have strength beyond the norm
And to a "trend" will not conform.
These are those who keep us stable
And won't listen to false fable.
They will keep our nation strong,
For they discern the truth from wrong.
"The counsel of the Lord standeth for ever, the thought 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
Who for righteousness will stand -
Those who see through Satan's shield
And to his lies will never yield.
God's own people are not blind.
Their beliefs are well-defined.
They have strength beyond the norm
And to a "trend" will not conform.
These are those who keep us stable
And won't listen to false fable.
They will keep our nation strong,
For they discern the truth from wrong.
"The counsel of the Lord standeth for ever, the thought 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
Saturday, July 26, 2008
Ice Cream Sundae
So many flavors of ice cream... yum-yum!
And so many toppings and nuts to choose from!
Chocolate and cherry and pineapple too...
And maybe some berries... our sweet tooth to woo.
When all is combined, it still isn't done
Until we add whipped cream... this makes it "A-1"!
E'en though we chose what is likely too much,
The whipped cream is just the right finishing touch.
In life we're creative in all that we do,
But we still need Jesus' perspective and view.
We put together what may seem quite nice,
But without His "covering" we may pay a price.
He is the "whipped cream"... the ultimate best!
He is Who makes all we do to be blessed.
When we include Him in all that we do
Then we may savor His blessings anew.
"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
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
And so many toppings and nuts to choose from!
Chocolate and cherry and pineapple too...
And maybe some berries... our sweet tooth to woo.
When all is combined, it still isn't done
Until we add whipped cream... this makes it "A-1"!
E'en though we chose what is likely too much,
The whipped cream is just the right finishing touch.
In life we're creative in all that we do,
But we still need Jesus' perspective and view.
We put together what may seem quite nice,
But without His "covering" we may pay a price.
He is the "whipped cream"... the ultimate best!
He is Who makes all we do to be blessed.
When we include Him in all that we do
Then we may savor His blessings anew.
"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
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Friday, July 25, 2008
Prayer Retreat
God has answers for this day
If we have faith and daily pray.
He is able to bring change
And circumstance to rearrange.
We should not accept defeat
But to our place of prayer retreat.
Through our God are battles won.
By His hand great feats are done.
If you're faced with evil's bag
And sin abounds and waves it's flag,
Know that God can change this trend
And to sin's folly bring an end!
"Through God we shall do valiantly: for he it is that shall tread down our enemies."
Psalm 108:13 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
If we have faith and daily pray.
He is able to bring change
And circumstance to rearrange.
We should not accept defeat
But to our place of prayer retreat.
Through our God are battles won.
By His hand great feats are done.
If you're faced with evil's bag
And sin abounds and waves it's flag,
Know that God can change this trend
And to sin's folly bring an end!
"Through God we shall do valiantly: for he it is that shall tread down our enemies."
Psalm 108:13 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Thursday, July 24, 2008
Baggage
Lord, Your Word says that You will provide for my needs, but I sometimes cannot even see what my needs are because my mind is "cluttered up" with so many things. It occurs to me that I need to clean out the closets and corners of my mind so that there is "room" in which to put the new things You would provide.
Lord, help me not to collect so much stuff that I cannot recognize what my real needs are (as defined by You). Perhaps my mind is too full to even receive what You have for me when I do see it.
Help me to stay free of "clutter" so that I can move forward at Your pace and in the timing You would give me. Help me to recognize what is "baggage"... extra baggage. And give me the wisdom and determination to deal with it, lest I start to bog down.
Lord, make me ready, in my mind as well as in my lifestyle, to receive Your provision.
"Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee."
Isaiah 26:3 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Lord, help me not to collect so much stuff that I cannot recognize what my real needs are (as defined by You). Perhaps my mind is too full to even receive what You have for me when I do see it.
Help me to stay free of "clutter" so that I can move forward at Your pace and in the timing You would give me. Help me to recognize what is "baggage"... extra baggage. And give me the wisdom and determination to deal with it, lest I start to bog down.
Lord, make me ready, in my mind as well as in my lifestyle, to receive Your provision.
"Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee."
Isaiah 26:3 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
Think Happy Thoughts
When the sky is all grey and it threatens to rain,
Think happy thoughts to make gloominess wane.
What good does it do to moan and complain?
It won't help your day or happiness attain.
Look on the bright side and chase those old "blues".
Negative thoughts and sadness refuse!
When you think it through, there is always GOOD news.
You have the power over which thoughts to choose.
Smile on the outside..... wear a big grin!
When you choose to look up, you will soon smile within.
Let joy fill your day and cause you to win
Over gloom and the "blues" and their woe-begone kin!
"Whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things."
Philippians 4:8 KJV
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Think happy thoughts to make gloominess wane.
What good does it do to moan and complain?
It won't help your day or happiness attain.
Look on the bright side and chase those old "blues".
Negative thoughts and sadness refuse!
When you think it through, there is always GOOD news.
You have the power over which thoughts to choose.
Smile on the outside..... wear a big grin!
When you choose to look up, you will soon smile within.
Let joy fill your day and cause you to win
Over gloom and the "blues" and their woe-begone kin!
"Whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things."
Philippians 4:8 KJV
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
The Impact We Make
Lord, You determine the path we will take
And the everyday impact that our lives will make.
When we're obedient and walk in Your will
Our "walk" will not be just "run-of-the-mill".
If we are sensitive we leave a trail
Of blessing and love on a heavenly "scale".
If we're not sensitive we leave a path
Of "crushing" and sadness, anger and wrath.
We cannot know the impact we'll have,
So it's good to "walk softly" and be healing salve.
The quietest things we do every day
In the Lord's mighty hands will not go astray.
"He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?"
Micah 6:8 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
And the everyday impact that our lives will make.
When we're obedient and walk in Your will
Our "walk" will not be just "run-of-the-mill".
If we are sensitive we leave a trail
Of blessing and love on a heavenly "scale".
If we're not sensitive we leave a path
Of "crushing" and sadness, anger and wrath.
We cannot know the impact we'll have,
So it's good to "walk softly" and be healing salve.
The quietest things we do every day
In the Lord's mighty hands will not go astray.
"He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?"
Micah 6:8 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Monday, July 21, 2008
Blessed Hope
Hope turns on the lights of fresh new perspective. It rekindles the fires of dying embers.
It strengthens the spirit and enables one to see clearly.
It lifts one up into positive position and enables forward movement.
It restores vitality and brings joy.
Lord, strengthen me to cling tightly to that hope which You give. Help me to stay intently focused in You, irregardless of the onslaught and intent of the enemy which would rob away or divert my attention from Your purpose for me. Strengthen me to adamantly refuse seeds of negativity or fear. Amen.
"Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the Lord."
Psalm 31:24 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
It strengthens the spirit and enables one to see clearly.
It lifts one up into positive position and enables forward movement.
It restores vitality and brings joy.
Lord, strengthen me to cling tightly to that hope which You give. Help me to stay intently focused in You, irregardless of the onslaught and intent of the enemy which would rob away or divert my attention from Your purpose for me. Strengthen me to adamantly refuse seeds of negativity or fear. Amen.
"Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the Lord."
Psalm 31:24 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sunday, July 20, 2008
Too Busy?
Will we spend time to lie down in green pastures?
Will we take moments to rest by still waters?
Will we find time to let Him restore us?
Will righteousness fill us, His sons and His daughters?
He is our Shepherd..... we shall not have want.
And when we have testing, we shall not have fear.
He is our comfort to guide and to guard us.
In all of our ways He is constantly near.
How great is our loss if we do not revere Him,
But get much too busy to bow at His feet.
For here we're refreshed in our bodies and souls.
In His holy presence our rest is complete.
"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
© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Will we take moments to rest by still waters?
Will we find time to let Him restore us?
Will righteousness fill us, His sons and His daughters?
He is our Shepherd..... we shall not have want.
And when we have testing, we shall not have fear.
He is our comfort to guide and to guard us.
In all of our ways He is constantly near.
How great is our loss if we do not revere Him,
But get much too busy to bow at His feet.
For here we're refreshed in our bodies and souls.
In His holy presence our rest is complete.
"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
© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Saturday, July 19, 2008
Time Well Used
The precious hours of each day
Continually will tick away.
There's opportunity in each
A deed to do or goal to reach.
We cannot keep or get them back,
But certainly can try to pack
Some good things into every hour,
Maybe even plant a flower.
When that flower starts to bloom
And issues forth it's sweet perfume,
Share it... just to bring a smile
To one who needs to feel worthwhile.
If we use our time this way
And give to brighten someone's day,
God will honor what we do
And multiply our time anew.
"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
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Continually will tick away.
There's opportunity in each
A deed to do or goal to reach.
We cannot keep or get them back,
But certainly can try to pack
Some good things into every hour,
Maybe even plant a flower.
When that flower starts to bloom
And issues forth it's sweet perfume,
Share it... just to bring a smile
To one who needs to feel worthwhile.
If we use our time this way
And give to brighten someone's day,
God will honor what we do
And multiply our time anew.
"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
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Friday, July 18, 2008
Let Worship Ring
In your heart let worship ring!
Laugh and dance and shout and sing!
Rousing "alleluias bring
To our Savior, Lord and King!
His love set our hearts ablaze,
Saving us from sin's dark ways.
He is worthy of all praise.
We our hands in honor raise.
Praise Him for His love outpoured!
Let worship rise in one accord!
Strike a bright, harmonious chord!
Alleluia! Praise the Lord!
"Then was our mouth filled with laughter, and our tongue with singing: then said they among the heathen, The Lord hath done great things for them. The Lord hath done great things for us; whereof we are glad."
Psalm 126:2-3 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Laugh and dance and shout and sing!
Rousing "alleluias bring
To our Savior, Lord and King!
His love set our hearts ablaze,
Saving us from sin's dark ways.
He is worthy of all praise.
We our hands in honor raise.
Praise Him for His love outpoured!
Let worship rise in one accord!
Strike a bright, harmonious chord!
Alleluia! Praise the Lord!
"Then was our mouth filled with laughter, and our tongue with singing: then said they among the heathen, The Lord hath done great things for them. The Lord hath done great things for us; whereof we are glad."
Psalm 126:2-3 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Thursday, July 17, 2008
Sweeter Than Honey
A little bee goes about gathering nectar,
Which he then takes "home" to make something sweet.
This little winged fellow works long and works hard
To gather enough to make honey to eat.
If I could be just like this small honey bee
And gather the sweet things in life that I find,
Surely my life would grow sweeter each day.
If I eat "this" honey then I might be kind...
I'll seek out the "nectar" which makes me more gentle...
God's sweet-scented "flowers" of love and good will.
I'll search for His fragrance which makes me more humble
And draw of this nectar, my spirit to fill.
When the small bee has finished his labor,
He offers "good food" for others to eat.
Lord, make me like him! As I gather Your nectar
Make my life as honey... so very sweet!
"The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple. The statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes. The fear of the Lord is clean, enduring forever: the judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether. More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb."
Psalm 19:7-10 KJV
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Which he then takes "home" to make something sweet.
This little winged fellow works long and works hard
To gather enough to make honey to eat.
If I could be just like this small honey bee
And gather the sweet things in life that I find,
Surely my life would grow sweeter each day.
If I eat "this" honey then I might be kind...
I'll seek out the "nectar" which makes me more gentle...
God's sweet-scented "flowers" of love and good will.
I'll search for His fragrance which makes me more humble
And draw of this nectar, my spirit to fill.
When the small bee has finished his labor,
He offers "good food" for others to eat.
Lord, make me like him! As I gather Your nectar
Make my life as honey... so very sweet!
"The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple. The statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes. The fear of the Lord is clean, enduring forever: the judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether. More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb."
Psalm 19:7-10 KJV
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
A Courier Of Love
Help me, Lord, to always be
A courier of love for Thee.
Let my speech be soft and pure,
Filled with wisdom and mature.
May my heart be finely-tuned.
From thoughtlessness let it be pruned.
Let my mind be stayed on Thee,
Lest my thoughts short-sighted be.
Shape and mold me as Thou will
That all Thy call I might fulfill.
Make of me a radiant light.
Let Thy love in me shine bright.
"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
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
A courier of love for Thee.
Let my speech be soft and pure,
Filled with wisdom and mature.
May my heart be finely-tuned.
From thoughtlessness let it be pruned.
Let my mind be stayed on Thee,
Lest my thoughts short-sighted be.
Shape and mold me as Thou will
That all Thy call I might fulfill.
Make of me a radiant light.
Let Thy love in me shine bright.
"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
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Kaleidoscope
Our world is a kaleidoscope
Of yellows, reds and blues,
Painted by a loving God
In endless shades and hues.
God's great artistry gave birth,
In evidence for all to see,
To colors splashed throughout the earth
In endless creativity.
Color is God's special gift,
In constant, bright procession,
...As lovely as a symphony,
His beauteous expression.
"O Lord, our Lord, how excellent is thy name in all the earth!"
Psalm 89 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Of yellows, reds and blues,
Painted by a loving God
In endless shades and hues.
God's great artistry gave birth,
In evidence for all to see,
To colors splashed throughout the earth
In endless creativity.
Color is God's special gift,
In constant, bright procession,
...As lovely as a symphony,
His beauteous expression.
"O Lord, our Lord, how excellent is thy name in all the earth!"
Psalm 89 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Monday, July 14, 2008
A Heart Of Compassion
When a little child falls
And you lend him a hand,
Then he can get up
And be able to stand.
He may be shook up
And feel "ruffled" a bit,
But if you just hold him
He'll soon be quite "fit".
By being there for him
And showing him grace,
You've given him courage
His problem to face.
The child has been strengthened
Because someone cared.
And he will feel good
From the love you have shared.
"But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was; and when he saw him, he had compassion on him, and bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine, and set him on his own beast, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him."
Luke 10:33-34 KJV
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
And you lend him a hand,
Then he can get up
And be able to stand.
He may be shook up
And feel "ruffled" a bit,
But if you just hold him
He'll soon be quite "fit".
By being there for him
And showing him grace,
You've given him courage
His problem to face.
The child has been strengthened
Because someone cared.
And he will feel good
From the love you have shared.
"But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was; and when he saw him, he had compassion on him, and bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine, and set him on his own beast, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him."
Luke 10:33-34 KJV
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sunday, July 13, 2008
One Step At A Time
When we face a "mount"
It's the small steps which count.
"One step at a time"
Is the best way to climb.
These mountains before us
Which cause us to fuss
Sometimes are just more
Than our energy "store".
It's wise to address
A plan without stress...
One which won't fail
But has good avail.
Then steadily climb
One step at a time.
Each footstep will count
As we scale the mount.
"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."
Psalm 18:32-33 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
It's the small steps which count.
"One step at a time"
Is the best way to climb.
These mountains before us
Which cause us to fuss
Sometimes are just more
Than our energy "store".
It's wise to address
A plan without stress...
One which won't fail
But has good avail.
Then steadily climb
One step at a time.
Each footstep will count
As we scale the mount.
"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."
Psalm 18:32-33 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Saturday, July 12, 2008
In Tune
Holy Spirit, Thou art welcome
To come and rearrange
All that is within me
That really needs some change.
When I become too busy
To hear Your quiet call,
Confusion starts to happen,
And error could befall.
I need Your clear direction
So I can really know
What You would daily have me do,
And what I should forego.
Some tasks may seem to be all right
And really have some worth,
But if they aren't what I should do,
Then You cannot give birth...
To that which may be urgent.
My time will then be spent
On matters of "distraction"
Which were not Your intent.
Help me hear Your precious voice
And constantly commune,
To follow in the path You give
And really be in tune.
"Howbeit, when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth, for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come."
John 16:13 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
To come and rearrange
All that is within me
That really needs some change.
When I become too busy
To hear Your quiet call,
Confusion starts to happen,
And error could befall.
I need Your clear direction
So I can really know
What You would daily have me do,
And what I should forego.
Some tasks may seem to be all right
And really have some worth,
But if they aren't what I should do,
Then You cannot give birth...
To that which may be urgent.
My time will then be spent
On matters of "distraction"
Which were not Your intent.
Help me hear Your precious voice
And constantly commune,
To follow in the path You give
And really be in tune.
"Howbeit, when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth, for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come."
John 16:13 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Friday, July 11, 2008
The Hands Of Jesus
Have you ever thought about the hands of Jesus.....
those beautiful hands that set themselves always to do the work of the Father?
Healing hands
That touched the blind,
Healed the sick,
Made the lame to walk again,
Made the lepers whole.
Loving hands
That always reached out to others.
Tender, gentle, protective hands
That held a little child.
Humble hands
That washed the disciples' feet.
Praying hands
That interceded before the Father.
The love of the Father was always expressed
through the hands of Jesus.
"And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kindgom, and healing all manner of sickness and all manner of disease among the people."
Matthew 4:23 KJV
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
those beautiful hands that set themselves always to do the work of the Father?
Healing hands
That touched the blind,
Healed the sick,
Made the lame to walk again,
Made the lepers whole.
Loving hands
That always reached out to others.
Tender, gentle, protective hands
That held a little child.
Humble hands
That washed the disciples' feet.
Praying hands
That interceded before the Father.
The love of the Father was always expressed
through the hands of Jesus.
"And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kindgom, and healing all manner of sickness and all manner of disease among the people."
Matthew 4:23 KJV
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Thursday, July 10, 2008
A Cheerful View
What color "glasses" do you wear?
Do things look bright... or grey and bare?
Good frame of mind can help you see
And think things through with clarity.
You can choose to laugh and sing
Or fuss and fret in everything.
Do not start to sing the blues.
Negativity refuse!
It's so much easier to smile.
It seems to make life more worthwhile.
Rejoice and keep a thankful heart.
Then your days won't "fall apart!"
"A merry heart doeth good like a medicine..."
Proverbs 17:22 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Do things look bright... or grey and bare?
Good frame of mind can help you see
And think things through with clarity.
You can choose to laugh and sing
Or fuss and fret in everything.
Do not start to sing the blues.
Negativity refuse!
It's so much easier to smile.
It seems to make life more worthwhile.
Rejoice and keep a thankful heart.
Then your days won't "fall apart!"
"A merry heart doeth good like a medicine..."
Proverbs 17:22 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Wednesday, July 09, 2008
Rest In Him
Lord, help me to rest
When my mind's all awhirl,
To enter Your peace
When things 'round me swirl.
Though storms and winds blow
In You I'll be "fixed".
Then I'll not be caught
"Between and betwixt".
In You I'll be strong.
My anchor will hold.
When circumstance threatens
In You I'll be bold.
My mind will be still.
In You I'll find rest...
More than enough
To meet every test.
"Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee."
Isaiah 26:3 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
When my mind's all awhirl,
To enter Your peace
When things 'round me swirl.
Though storms and winds blow
In You I'll be "fixed".
Then I'll not be caught
"Between and betwixt".
In You I'll be strong.
My anchor will hold.
When circumstance threatens
In You I'll be bold.
My mind will be still.
In You I'll find rest...
More than enough
To meet every test.
"Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee."
Isaiah 26:3 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Tuesday, July 08, 2008
Eagle's Wings
I want to fly with the wings of an eagle.
And I want to catch the wind of the Spirit with my wings.....
To soar and to be lifted up.
For the wind of the Spirit will take me to high places
And I will be able to see clearly.
I want to ride in the wind of the Spirit.....
To feel the current beneath my wings, carrying me.....
And I will reside there.
For there I will ride above the storms of life.....
Not hindered..... unable to be touched by that which would pull me down.....
Powerful and strong.
The eagle discerns the Wind..... and is free!
"Now the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty."
II Corinthians 3:17 KJV
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
And I want to catch the wind of the Spirit with my wings.....
To soar and to be lifted up.
For the wind of the Spirit will take me to high places
And I will be able to see clearly.
I want to ride in the wind of the Spirit.....
To feel the current beneath my wings, carrying me.....
And I will reside there.
For there I will ride above the storms of life.....
Not hindered..... unable to be touched by that which would pull me down.....
Powerful and strong.
The eagle discerns the Wind..... and is free!
"Now the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty."
II Corinthians 3:17 KJV
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Monday, July 07, 2008
Men Of Boldness
Thank You, Lord, for Godly men
Who stand in place and are not moved,
Who work for righteousness and truth
Even when they're disapproved.
Evil loiters in the wings,
Watching, waiting to take o'er,
But men of boldness on alert
Drive these evils from our door.
These are those who toil and pray
That we might still hear freedom's ring,
Mighty men who don't give up
But to God's righteousness will cling.
"Through God we shall do valiantly: for he it is that shall tread down our enemies."
Psalm 60:12 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Who stand in place and are not moved,
Who work for righteousness and truth
Even when they're disapproved.
Evil loiters in the wings,
Watching, waiting to take o'er,
But men of boldness on alert
Drive these evils from our door.
These are those who toil and pray
That we might still hear freedom's ring,
Mighty men who don't give up
But to God's righteousness will cling.
"Through God we shall do valiantly: for he it is that shall tread down our enemies."
Psalm 60:12 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sunday, July 06, 2008
Grace Is There For Me
When part of my life starts to come together and I think I have it just right, then usually I find something else I need to work on which is lagging behind. It is in these times that I am especially grateful for grace.
Grace waits until I can catch up.
Grace catches me when I fall.
Grace is gentle and always smiles (probably chuckling at my bumbling attempts at times).
Grace is encouragement when I hit hard bumps along the way.
Grace is always the sufficiency which causes me to win, filling the part of the gap between me and the goal which I, of myself, cannot fill.
Grace does not look at my weakness or inability but waits with joyful expectation.
Grace is light in the darkness and does not leave me alone.
Grace is an "always" friend.
"And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee..."
II Corinthians 12:9 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Grace waits until I can catch up.
Grace catches me when I fall.
Grace is gentle and always smiles (probably chuckling at my bumbling attempts at times).
Grace is encouragement when I hit hard bumps along the way.
Grace is always the sufficiency which causes me to win, filling the part of the gap between me and the goal which I, of myself, cannot fill.
Grace does not look at my weakness or inability but waits with joyful expectation.
Grace is light in the darkness and does not leave me alone.
Grace is an "always" friend.
"And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee..."
II Corinthians 12:9 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Saturday, July 05, 2008
A Good Reflection
I will choose to praise Your Name
Early in my day...
Before the daily "grumbles"
Try to find a place to stay.
I will set my mind on You
And hear what You would say.
Then I will rise above those things
That rob my joy away.
What place do problems have for me
Except to pull me down?
I will not even "go there"
For they only make me frown.
I find that when I look to You
I'm able to see clearer.
And at day's end when I reflect,
I see YOU in the mirror.
"I have set the Lord always before me: because he is at my right hand, I shall not be moved."
Psalm 16:8 KJV
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Early in my day...
Before the daily "grumbles"
Try to find a place to stay.
I will set my mind on You
And hear what You would say.
Then I will rise above those things
That rob my joy away.
What place do problems have for me
Except to pull me down?
I will not even "go there"
For they only make me frown.
I find that when I look to You
I'm able to see clearer.
And at day's end when I reflect,
I see YOU in the mirror.
"I have set the Lord always before me: because he is at my right hand, I shall not be moved."
Psalm 16:8 KJV
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Friday, July 04, 2008
Happy Independence Day
A Great Nation
Could we turn back the pages of why we are great,
Could sit with our founders and time re-create,
We would hear prayer and reverence for God,
A standard of holiness without "facade".
We would meet men of wisdom and might
Who had long-range vision and desire to do right.
With heartfelt conviction they founded our nation.
To them we all owe a standing ovation!
They honored God in action and word.
By Scripture and holiness these men were stirred.
Our founders had a prayerful concern.
They set fine example. From them we should learn.
"Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord..."
Psalm 33:12 KJV
"Thou hast a mighty arm; strong is thy hand, and high is thy right hand. Justice and judgment are the habitation of thy throne: mercy and truth shall go before thy face."
Psalm 89:7 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Could we turn back the pages of why we are great,
Could sit with our founders and time re-create,
We would hear prayer and reverence for God,
A standard of holiness without "facade".
We would meet men of wisdom and might
Who had long-range vision and desire to do right.
With heartfelt conviction they founded our nation.
To them we all owe a standing ovation!
They honored God in action and word.
By Scripture and holiness these men were stirred.
Our founders had a prayerful concern.
They set fine example. From them we should learn.
"Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord..."
Psalm 33:12 KJV
"Thou hast a mighty arm; strong is thy hand, and high is thy right hand. Justice and judgment are the habitation of thy throne: mercy and truth shall go before thy face."
Psalm 89:7 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Thursday, July 03, 2008
Freedom's Banner
Freedom is a gift of gold
Which we always must uphold.
Many fought and bled and died
That we in freedom might reside.
Evil plans which bring a threat
With prayer and fury must be met.
Freedom must stand tall and strong
And be protected from all wrong.
Wars within and wars without
Bring confusion, hate and doubt,
But many voices joined in prayer
Will freedom's joyous banner bear.
Freedom's battle can be won,
By praying people will be done.
To patriots loyal to this cause
We bring honor and applause.
"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 quiiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty."
I Timothy 2:1 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Which we always must uphold.
Many fought and bled and died
That we in freedom might reside.
Evil plans which bring a threat
With prayer and fury must be met.
Freedom must stand tall and strong
And be protected from all wrong.
Wars within and wars without
Bring confusion, hate and doubt,
But many voices joined in prayer
Will freedom's joyous banner bear.
Freedom's battle can be won,
By praying people will be done.
To patriots loyal to this cause
We bring honor and applause.
"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 quiiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty."
I Timothy 2:1 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Wednesday, July 02, 2008
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
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
Tuesday, July 01, 2008
Learning About Mountains
I have been pondering about "hinds' feet in high places"...
When we desire to walk in high places God takes us to the valley for training until we are able to ascend to the high places. And eventually, as we are trained and ready, He takes us to the high places and gloriously blesses us. It is so wonderful on the mountaintop that we simply do not want to leave or look back to the "valley". But... when we get weary in the high places then we are in danger of mis-stepping or perhaps getting "injured". So God graciously says, "I'm going to take you back to the valley to recuperate." At that point He doesn't say, "And I may have something new in mind for you." He just says, "I'm taking you back to the valley."
This feels like a real "bummer"! But then suddenly something wells up inside and says, "Omigosh! He's going to train me to go up another mountain and walk in yet some new high places." And I begin to realize that perhaps all along He had more than one mountaintop planned for me. (It's probably good that He didn't tell me sooner!) Maybe the training for the new mountain will incorporate that of the first mountain, or maybe it will be entirely new. But mountaintops are something to look forward to. And it occurs to me that I might not even see what the new mountain is to be until I am in the place of "rest", totally still and looking up.
I am reminded of Phillip. He was walking in one place and then suddenly was translated to another place. It is God's hand that moves us in ministry or from one mountain to another.
May we always ascend the right mountain, and may we always reach the top. (I sure waouldn't want to climb the wrong mountain, What a lot of work that would be!!!) By His grace, and only by His grace, are we able to climb. Hallelujah! We have an awesome God.
"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."
Psalm 18:32-33 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
When we desire to walk in high places God takes us to the valley for training until we are able to ascend to the high places. And eventually, as we are trained and ready, He takes us to the high places and gloriously blesses us. It is so wonderful on the mountaintop that we simply do not want to leave or look back to the "valley". But... when we get weary in the high places then we are in danger of mis-stepping or perhaps getting "injured". So God graciously says, "I'm going to take you back to the valley to recuperate." At that point He doesn't say, "And I may have something new in mind for you." He just says, "I'm taking you back to the valley."
This feels like a real "bummer"! But then suddenly something wells up inside and says, "Omigosh! He's going to train me to go up another mountain and walk in yet some new high places." And I begin to realize that perhaps all along He had more than one mountaintop planned for me. (It's probably good that He didn't tell me sooner!) Maybe the training for the new mountain will incorporate that of the first mountain, or maybe it will be entirely new. But mountaintops are something to look forward to. And it occurs to me that I might not even see what the new mountain is to be until I am in the place of "rest", totally still and looking up.
I am reminded of Phillip. He was walking in one place and then suddenly was translated to another place. It is God's hand that moves us in ministry or from one mountain to another.
May we always ascend the right mountain, and may we always reach the top. (I sure waouldn't want to climb the wrong mountain, What a lot of work that would be!!!) By His grace, and only by His grace, are we able to climb. Hallelujah! We have an awesome God.
"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."
Psalm 18:32-33 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)