Our awesome God brings the rain as He wills
To refresh the land and wash away "ills".
All nature responds and is sweetly declaring
"How rich is His love, how great is His caring!"
He is the Maker of rain and of snow.
He makes the tides and the rivers to flow.
The mountains and hills, the valleys and plains,
Shall lift up their praise and echo sweet strains...
Acknowledging God and giving Him glory.
Creation will tell this jubilant story!
When nature in reverence it's anthem shall raise,
All heaven and earth will be filled with His praise.
"Praise the Lord from the earth, you sea monsters and all deeps! You lightning, hail, fog, and frost, you stormy wind fulfilling His orders! Mountains and all hills, fruitful trees and all cedars! Let them praise and exalt the name of the Lord, for His name alone is exalted and supreme! His glory and majesty are above earth and heaven!"
Psalm 148:7-9 & 13 Amplified Bible
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Friday, July 31, 2009
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Guarding Our Children
Fragmented families are cause for concern.
The children cry out. Their little hearts yearn
To just be at home with Mom and with Dad.
Because they can't do this, so many are sad.
Home is a shelter and family it's base,
Where children are strengthened life's trials to face.
When family is broken the children have fear,
And deep insecurity robs them of cheer.
Parents, be strong, alert and aware!
Cover your family with wisdom and prayer.
Close all the doors to evil's design,
Lest enemy forces your home undermine.
"... As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord."
Joshua 24:15 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
The children cry out. Their little hearts yearn
To just be at home with Mom and with Dad.
Because they can't do this, so many are sad.
Home is a shelter and family it's base,
Where children are strengthened life's trials to face.
When family is broken the children have fear,
And deep insecurity robs them of cheer.
Parents, be strong, alert and aware!
Cover your family with wisdom and prayer.
Close all the doors to evil's design,
Lest enemy forces your home undermine.
"... As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord."
Joshua 24:15 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Good Fruit
At the end of the day, are our labors for nought?
In that which we do, have we giv'n enough thought?
It's fruitless to labor at tasks with poor cause.
If there is no substance, then we should give pause...
To pray and to seek a work with good fruit.
To follow God's calling should be our pursuit.
Then all our work will have new perspective.
The key is to find and know God's objective.
Our time is well-spent when God shows the way.
He guides us and prospers our work day-to-day.
To bear worthy fruit should be our first call.
Then He will bless us... in great and in small.
"And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him."
Colossians 3:17 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
In that which we do, have we giv'n enough thought?
It's fruitless to labor at tasks with poor cause.
If there is no substance, then we should give pause...
To pray and to seek a work with good fruit.
To follow God's calling should be our pursuit.
Then all our work will have new perspective.
The key is to find and know God's objective.
Our time is well-spent when God shows the way.
He guides us and prospers our work day-to-day.
To bear worthy fruit should be our first call.
Then He will bless us... in great and in small.
"And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him."
Colossians 3:17 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
A Happy Note
Always people seem to need
A happy note to cheer their days.
A smile, a wave, a bright "hello"
Can bring a change which will amaze.
Often it will not take much
And really is a joy to do.
And when you bring good will to others
It will then return to you!
Choose to brighten someone's day.
Shower others with good will.
When you walk this happy trail
Your joy will be greater still!
"Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul and health to the bones."
Proverbs 16:24 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
A happy note to cheer their days.
A smile, a wave, a bright "hello"
Can bring a change which will amaze.
Often it will not take much
And really is a joy to do.
And when you bring good will to others
It will then return to you!
Choose to brighten someone's day.
Shower others with good will.
When you walk this happy trail
Your joy will be greater still!
"Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul and health to the bones."
Proverbs 16:24 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Monday, July 27, 2009
Smog Alert
Beware, My children, lest you become jaded,
Lest your minds and thoughts are plundered and raided
By worldly concepts which have little worth.
They creep in so subtly and slyly seek berth.
You may not spot them with your own first glance.
Be very guarded, so you don't take chance.
The Word is the filter and screening you need
So you will have wisdom to spot "worldly" seed.
Jadedness wearies and misleads bright hope.
It cripples clear vision and wrong doors will ope.
The flow of the Spirit this bad pest will clog.
It's spiritual darkness... an unwelcome smog!
"And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect will of God."
Romans 12:2 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Lest your minds and thoughts are plundered and raided
By worldly concepts which have little worth.
They creep in so subtly and slyly seek berth.
You may not spot them with your own first glance.
Be very guarded, so you don't take chance.
The Word is the filter and screening you need
So you will have wisdom to spot "worldly" seed.
Jadedness wearies and misleads bright hope.
It cripples clear vision and wrong doors will ope.
The flow of the Spirit this bad pest will clog.
It's spiritual darkness... an unwelcome smog!
"And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect will of God."
Romans 12:2 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Treasure
The fear of the Lord is a good place to start
If one would find wisdom to store in his heart.
Reverence for God is the key to the door
Of wisdom and knowledge and "riches" and more.
Wisdom is higher than silver and gold,
Brimming with wealth and treasures untold.
Man may have fortunes and "hoardings" on earth,
But these can't compare with wisdom's great worth.
Gathering wisdom will open one's eyes,
For insights God gives are truly a prize.
That which man stores is only as waste.
By fear of the Lord we with wisdom are graced.
"The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding."
Proverbs 9:10 KJV
"How much better is it to get wisdom than gold: and to get understanding rather to be chosen than silver!"
Proverbs 16:16 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
If one would find wisdom to store in his heart.
Reverence for God is the key to the door
Of wisdom and knowledge and "riches" and more.
Wisdom is higher than silver and gold,
Brimming with wealth and treasures untold.
Man may have fortunes and "hoardings" on earth,
But these can't compare with wisdom's great worth.
Gathering wisdom will open one's eyes,
For insights God gives are truly a prize.
That which man stores is only as waste.
By fear of the Lord we with wisdom are graced.
"The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding."
Proverbs 9:10 KJV
"How much better is it to get wisdom than gold: and to get understanding rather to be chosen than silver!"
Proverbs 16:16 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Saturday, July 25, 2009
The Cross
The cross is a blessed place of relief
Where one can lay down all sorrow and grief
And find strength and courage to face a new day,
Where burdens are lifted and sin's washed away.
At the foot of the cross is peace for each day...
A good place to come to worship and pray.
The cross is a symbol of God's awesome love,
Outpoured for His people from Heaven above.
This is where Jesus, our blessed Savior died
That we might be saved and in Him abide.
All things are changed in the light of the cross.
The shed blood of Jesus has covered all loss.
"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life."
John 3:16 KJV
"Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits: who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases. Who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies; who satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle's."
Psalm 103:2-5 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Where one can lay down all sorrow and grief
And find strength and courage to face a new day,
Where burdens are lifted and sin's washed away.
At the foot of the cross is peace for each day...
A good place to come to worship and pray.
The cross is a symbol of God's awesome love,
Outpoured for His people from Heaven above.
This is where Jesus, our blessed Savior died
That we might be saved and in Him abide.
All things are changed in the light of the cross.
The shed blood of Jesus has covered all loss.
"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life."
John 3:16 KJV
"Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits: who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases. Who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies; who satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle's."
Psalm 103:2-5 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Friday, July 24, 2009
SonShine
If your day seems bleak and bare,
Of God's Sonshine be aware.
There is always something good
To thank our God for, if we would.
Think about His grace and love,
Showered on you from above.
Think about His faithful care.
Know that He is always there.
In review, things aren't so bad.
For all God's gifts we can be glad!
Whene'er a challenge comes your way
Let His Sonshine light your day.
"This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it."
Psalm 118:24 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Of God's Sonshine be aware.
There is always something good
To thank our God for, if we would.
Think about His grace and love,
Showered on you from above.
Think about His faithful care.
Know that He is always there.
In review, things aren't so bad.
For all God's gifts we can be glad!
Whene'er a challenge comes your way
Let His Sonshine light your day.
"This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it."
Psalm 118:24 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Thursday, July 23, 2009
His Precious Covering
In years past I played the piano for the services of a large church. In this church we had lots of worship, and the people worshipped with all their hearts. Always I strived to do my very best at the piano... as an offering to our precious Lord and also to bless the people. But one morning, I hit wrong notes several times. I was frustrated. It was not my norm for this to happen very often. But to have it happen more than once in any given service bothered me.
To my amazement, after that one service, several people came up to me and thanked me for blessing them with my playing. Occasionally a person would thank me, but this morning several came. I was dumbfounded. It was like the Lord had covered my errors and not even allowed the people to hear them. And then, out of His lovingkindness, He moved these people to come forth and thank me. His graciousness to me was so heartwarming. I felt like Jesus Himself was thanking me. What a blessing! What an awesome God we have!
"Because thy lovingkindness is better than life, my lips shall praise thee. Thus will I bless thee while I live: I will lift up my hands in thy name."
Psalm 63:3-4 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
To my amazement, after that one service, several people came up to me and thanked me for blessing them with my playing. Occasionally a person would thank me, but this morning several came. I was dumbfounded. It was like the Lord had covered my errors and not even allowed the people to hear them. And then, out of His lovingkindness, He moved these people to come forth and thank me. His graciousness to me was so heartwarming. I felt like Jesus Himself was thanking me. What a blessing! What an awesome God we have!
"Because thy lovingkindness is better than life, my lips shall praise thee. Thus will I bless thee while I live: I will lift up my hands in thy name."
Psalm 63:3-4 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Tender Care
As we live and work and play
Sometimes things will go astray.
Relationships get jarred and frayed
And sometimes need some tender "aid".
Litlte 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
Sometimes things will go astray.
Relationships get jarred and frayed
And sometimes need some tender "aid".
Litlte 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
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Coffee Break
Housework sometimes is a bore.
Dust and clutter are a chore!
How come houses don't stay clean?
I need "down time" in between!
Piles of clothes don't wash themselves.
Books don't jump back onto shelves.
What is sticky on my floor?
Oh! Someone's knocking at my door.
Who said this is easy work?
Around each corner more tasks lurk.
When I'm done I have to bake.
To start, I need a coffee break!
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Dust and clutter are a chore!
How come houses don't stay clean?
I need "down time" in between!
Piles of clothes don't wash themselves.
Books don't jump back onto shelves.
What is sticky on my floor?
Oh! Someone's knocking at my door.
Who said this is easy work?
Around each corner more tasks lurk.
When I'm done I have to bake.
To start, I need a coffee break!
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Monday, July 20, 2009
Rooted In Him
It's good to grow roots in the soil of the Word.
For there are our health and welfare assured.
These are the roots which cause us to stand
Against storm and flood when life makes demand.
God gives us nourishment from which to draw.
No matter the "tide", we rise up in awe.
His roots go deep and cannot be jarred.
His wisdom and strength become a sure guard.
Those who aren't "planted" or may be uprooted
Can grow roots in Him and then be sure-footed.
Endurance and power in His Word are stored.
Tap roots of strength are found in the Lord.
"As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him: rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving."
Colossians 2:6-7 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
For there are our health and welfare assured.
These are the roots which cause us to stand
Against storm and flood when life makes demand.
God gives us nourishment from which to draw.
No matter the "tide", we rise up in awe.
His roots go deep and cannot be jarred.
His wisdom and strength become a sure guard.
Those who aren't "planted" or may be uprooted
Can grow roots in Him and then be sure-footed.
Endurance and power in His Word are stored.
Tap roots of strength are found in the Lord.
"As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him: rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving."
Colossians 2:6-7 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Prayer Retreat
God has answers for this day
If we stand in faith and 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 stand in faith and 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
Saturday, July 18, 2009
He Knows My Heart
Some days my greatest efforts do not amount to much,
And though I've really labored hard don't have "that special touch".
And then some days I move along with energy and ease,
Pat myself upon the back and think, "This was a breeze!"
The Lord will look upon those days I worked and tried so hard.
Those might be the very days when in His sight I "starred".
The work I do cannot be measured in the sight of man.
My meekest efforts just might be my best in God's great plan.
What is in my heart each day is that which God will measure.
Even though I be not skilled, my worship is His treasure.
He can take my weakest skills and make them shine as gold.
All that I wiill do for Him has benefit untold.
"...For the Lord seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart."
I Samuel 16:7 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
And though I've really labored hard don't have "that special touch".
And then some days I move along with energy and ease,
Pat myself upon the back and think, "This was a breeze!"
The Lord will look upon those days I worked and tried so hard.
Those might be the very days when in His sight I "starred".
The work I do cannot be measured in the sight of man.
My meekest efforts just might be my best in God's great plan.
What is in my heart each day is that which God will measure.
Even though I be not skilled, my worship is His treasure.
He can take my weakest skills and make them shine as gold.
All that I wiill do for Him has benefit untold.
"...For the Lord seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart."
I Samuel 16:7 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Friday, July 17, 2009
The Confort Of God
In times of sadness, loss or sorrow,
God helps us to face tomorrow.
When our eyes with tears are blurred
He is there to undergird.
For He is able to sustain,
To take away our fear and pain.
He brings comfort, rest and peace
And from sorrow brings release.
He is strong when we are weak.
His love and friendship gently speak.
He will hide us 'neath His wing
Till we again can laugh and sing.
"Blessed are they who mourn, for they shalll be comforted."
Matthew 5:4 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
God helps us to face tomorrow.
When our eyes with tears are blurred
He is there to undergird.
For He is able to sustain,
To take away our fear and pain.
He brings comfort, rest and peace
And from sorrow brings release.
He is strong when we are weak.
His love and friendship gently speak.
He will hide us 'neath His wing
Till we again can laugh and sing.
"Blessed are they who mourn, for they shalll be comforted."
Matthew 5:4 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Thursday, July 16, 2009
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
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
God Bless America
May all of our leaders before our God bow.
Reverence and holiness may they avow.
For God's ways are high... above all we know...
And will keep us from wavering to and fro.
We were established on firmest foundation
And need to respect it's Godly creation.
Surely God's favor has brought us this far.
He is our help... our bright, Shining Star!
May all who lead be found on their knees,
Seeking God's face for His expertise.
Therein lies promise for bright days ahead,
That through prayer and wisdom we may safely tread.
"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
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Reverence and holiness may they avow.
For God's ways are high... above all we know...
And will keep us from wavering to and fro.
We were established on firmest foundation
And need to respect it's Godly creation.
Surely God's favor has brought us this far.
He is our help... our bright, Shining Star!
May all who lead be found on their knees,
Seeking God's face for His expertise.
Therein lies promise for bright days ahead,
That through prayer and wisdom we may safely tread.
"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
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
A Mighty Tower
Jesus' name is our strong tower,
A place of refuge in this hour,
Filled with strength and filled with might,
A bulwark... safe against the "night".
We are sheltered from the storm,
To fear and doubt will not conform.
We will "hide" in Jesus' name
And to the world His power proclaim!
Jesus' name brings hope and peace
And from our worries brings release.
Jesus' name will be our tower,
A place of "resting" in this hour!
"The name of the Lord is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe."
Proverbs 18:10 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
A place of refuge in this hour,
Filled with strength and filled with might,
A bulwark... safe against the "night".
We are sheltered from the storm,
To fear and doubt will not conform.
We will "hide" in Jesus' name
And to the world His power proclaim!
Jesus' name brings hope and peace
And from our worries brings release.
Jesus' name will be our tower,
A place of "resting" in this hour!
"The name of the Lord is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe."
Proverbs 18:10 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Monday, July 13, 2009
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
Sunday, July 12, 2009
An Unwelcome Guest
We have a great destroyer in our midst. Sometimes it simmers unnoticed, but often it isn't controlled and upsets everything it gets near by it's actions. It's manifestations are most unpleasant. What is it? Anger.
Look out for this destoyer. Sometimes it is subtle and lies hidden within. If it is allowed to rest there, undealt with, over time it will sap energy, affect health, cause prayers to be unanswered and hinder relationship with God and with others. God does not want us to live this way. "Be angry, and do not sin: do not let the sun go down on your wrath." (Ephesians 4:26 NKJ).
The enemy will stir this flame to divide and conquer. He will plant seeds of mistrust and doubt. He will use intimidation and sarcasm and haughtiness in others to spark flames of offense, bitterness, grudges and unforgiveness. But God gives us solutions. We can choose to repond in love and to not react to the enemy's barbs. This way the enemy has no door of entrance for the purpose of destruction. This is a good door to keep closed.
"Love does not behave rudely, does not seek it's own, is not provoked, thinks no evil..."
I Corinthians 13:5 NKJ
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Look out for this destoyer. Sometimes it is subtle and lies hidden within. If it is allowed to rest there, undealt with, over time it will sap energy, affect health, cause prayers to be unanswered and hinder relationship with God and with others. God does not want us to live this way. "Be angry, and do not sin: do not let the sun go down on your wrath." (Ephesians 4:26 NKJ).
The enemy will stir this flame to divide and conquer. He will plant seeds of mistrust and doubt. He will use intimidation and sarcasm and haughtiness in others to spark flames of offense, bitterness, grudges and unforgiveness. But God gives us solutions. We can choose to repond in love and to not react to the enemy's barbs. This way the enemy has no door of entrance for the purpose of destruction. This is a good door to keep closed.
"Love does not behave rudely, does not seek it's own, is not provoked, thinks no evil..."
I Corinthians 13:5 NKJ
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Words Which Linger
Let your speech be sweetly graced
And with God's love and peace be laced.
Words can be a healing balm
And foster lovingcare and calm.
E'en as sunshine shares it's light,
Your words may be as neon bright.
Laughter in your voice can bring
Some hope to which a soul may cling.
A voice as soothing as a shower
Is almost like a fragrant flower.
It's memory lingers on awhile
And, by it's beauty, brings a smile.
"A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver."
Proverbs 25:11 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
And with God's love and peace be laced.
Words can be a healing balm
And foster lovingcare and calm.
E'en as sunshine shares it's light,
Your words may be as neon bright.
Laughter in your voice can bring
Some hope to which a soul may cling.
A voice as soothing as a shower
Is almost like a fragrant flower.
It's memory lingers on awhile
And, by it's beauty, brings a smile.
"A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver."
Proverbs 25:11 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Friday, July 10, 2009
Fields Of Flowers
Lord, I want to sow some seeds
Of love and laughter, joy and grace,
That these seeds might multiply
And sorrow, fear and gloom displace.
Let my words go forth as seeds
And cause a field of "flowers" to grow,
With foliage, size and beauty rare
And fragrance wafting to and fro.
Let me seed a rich bouquet
To broadcast Your Good News about,
Bringing hope to many folk
Through times of trial or of doubt.
In the wind of Your sweet Spirit
May these seeds blow far and wide.
May they rest in fertile soil
And in hearts and lives abide.
"Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man."
Colossians 4:6 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Of love and laughter, joy and grace,
That these seeds might multiply
And sorrow, fear and gloom displace.
Let my words go forth as seeds
And cause a field of "flowers" to grow,
With foliage, size and beauty rare
And fragrance wafting to and fro.
Let me seed a rich bouquet
To broadcast Your Good News about,
Bringing hope to many folk
Through times of trial or of doubt.
In the wind of Your sweet Spirit
May these seeds blow far and wide.
May they rest in fertile soil
And in hearts and lives abide.
"Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man."
Colossians 4:6 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Thursday, July 09, 2009
Children In Need
Today's children are tomorrow's leaders. How will they lead? On what will they base their thinking and ideas?
Who (besides us, the parents - or in place of us) is mentoring our children? And what are they learning? Their "exposures" are many and varied: teachers, friends, neighbors, TV, movies, etc. Do we know what our children are thinking? How will they know the wisdom of God if we do not teach them? What then will be their foundation from which they determine right from wrong?
Children need the blessing of a Godly heritage, and they especially need our prayers. Our work is cut out for us. Our children need our help.
"And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might. And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up."
Deuteronomy 6:5-7 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Who (besides us, the parents - or in place of us) is mentoring our children? And what are they learning? Their "exposures" are many and varied: teachers, friends, neighbors, TV, movies, etc. Do we know what our children are thinking? How will they know the wisdom of God if we do not teach them? What then will be their foundation from which they determine right from wrong?
Children need the blessing of a Godly heritage, and they especially need our prayers. Our work is cut out for us. Our children need our help.
"And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might. And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up."
Deuteronomy 6:5-7 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Wednesday, July 08, 2009
Almighty God
We do not know Your power, Your strength,
The size of Your love...the breadth or the length...
Until we are tested and reach out in prayer.
Then we will realize how much You care.
There is no valley too wide or too deep,
Nor is there mountain too high or too steep.
There is no challenge which You cannot meet,
Or battles and wars You cannot defeat.
When we're in need of the power of Your hand,
We then will trust that You'll help us stand.
Almighty God of power and might,
You are our strength, You are our light!
"Behold, the Lord's hand is not shortened, that it cannot save: neither his ear heavy, that it cannot hear."
Isaiah 59:1 KJV
"The name of the Lord is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe."
Proverbs 18:10 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
The size of Your love...the breadth or the length...
Until we are tested and reach out in prayer.
Then we will realize how much You care.
There is no valley too wide or too deep,
Nor is there mountain too high or too steep.
There is no challenge which You cannot meet,
Or battles and wars You cannot defeat.
When we're in need of the power of Your hand,
We then will trust that You'll help us stand.
Almighty God of power and might,
You are our strength, You are our light!
"Behold, the Lord's hand is not shortened, that it cannot save: neither his ear heavy, that it cannot hear."
Isaiah 59:1 KJV
"The name of the Lord is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe."
Proverbs 18:10 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Tuesday, July 07, 2009
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
By His awesome love and grace.
When we're on "the cutting edge".
We will 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
By His awesome love and grace.
When we're on "the cutting edge".
We will 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
Monday, July 06, 2009
A Heavenly Net
Recently, as I was sitting in a doctor's waiting room, a woman I didn't know walked up to me and said, "You have great peace." I did feel peace, and the Lord allowed her to see that. We began to talk and had a wonderful conversation about the Lord. I knew God had orchestrated this meeting. While we were talking I glanced across the waiting room and another woman caught my attention. (I didn't know this one either). The glory of God was written all over her face. She was like a fountain of light. She sat with her eyes closed, and I felt that she was praying. After a few minutes she walked over to me and the first woman and handed each of us a piece of paper. She had torn the corner off of her bank deposit slips and gave one to each of us. Now we had her address and phone number and also a blessing which was printed there. She whispered to us, indicating she too was a Christian. Each of the three of us lives in an outlying region of a large metropolitan center. It is interesting to me that we were from three far-away corners outside the city. Surely God was putting something together, even though we live quite a distance from one another.
Recently I heard from a Christian friend whom I had lost track of approximately thirty-five years ago. This lady lives in yet another outlying corner of the larger metroplex area.
As I have pondered all this I was reminded of a vision I had sixteen years ago. It was this:
"I was looking down on the city. It was dark. I became aware that there were many homes that had light inside, and God showed me which ones they were. I saw a huge net (like a fishnet) draped across the roofs of the houses. The knots in the net were attached to the houses which had light, connecting those houses one to the other... the networking of the saints... today's real church. This all lay under the cover of darkness. There was no light in the vision, but God allowed me to see where the Light was."
Be encouraged. I believe the saints will see and know where other saints are. God will allow us to see and know one another, though we may never have met before, even as like what happened to me in the doctor's waiting room. We will not stand alone, though the hour be dark. God will always be with us and help us.
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Recently I heard from a Christian friend whom I had lost track of approximately thirty-five years ago. This lady lives in yet another outlying corner of the larger metroplex area.
As I have pondered all this I was reminded of a vision I had sixteen years ago. It was this:
"I was looking down on the city. It was dark. I became aware that there were many homes that had light inside, and God showed me which ones they were. I saw a huge net (like a fishnet) draped across the roofs of the houses. The knots in the net were attached to the houses which had light, connecting those houses one to the other... the networking of the saints... today's real church. This all lay under the cover of darkness. There was no light in the vision, but God allowed me to see where the Light was."
Be encouraged. I believe the saints will see and know where other saints are. God will allow us to see and know one another, though we may never have met before, even as like what happened to me in the doctor's waiting room. We will not stand alone, though the hour be dark. God will always be with us and help us.
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sunday, July 05, 2009
Sanctuary
Purify my heart, O Lord,
Every fiber, every niche.
Help me reach transparency,
Without a shadow or a glitch.
Stretch and change my heart to know
A greater depth of wisdom's gold.
Let me hasten and be quick
Your love and teachings to enfold.
In every recess of my heart,
In it's deepest sanctuary,
May I be a worthy vessel
Of Your love extraordinary.
"Search me, O god, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: and see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting."
Psalm 139:23-24 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Every fiber, every niche.
Help me reach transparency,
Without a shadow or a glitch.
Stretch and change my heart to know
A greater depth of wisdom's gold.
Let me hasten and be quick
Your love and teachings to enfold.
In every recess of my heart,
In it's deepest sanctuary,
May I be a worthy vessel
Of Your love extraordinary.
"Search me, O god, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: and see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting."
Psalm 139:23-24 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Saturday, July 04, 2009
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 judgement 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 judgement are the habitation of thy throne: mercy and truth shall go before thy face."
Psalm 89:7 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Friday, July 03, 2009
If I Could See Jesus
If I could see Jesus, what would I see...
Compassion and caring for one such as me,
Acceptance and love beyond all compare
And willingness always my burdens to bear.
His light and His glory could not be described,
Neither His warmth, in words, though one tried.
He is the Ruler o'er heaven and earth
And yet has deep interest to help us have worth.
Oh, how He cares for every soul,
To save and to heal and make each one whole.
His love is much more than we comprehend.
Though we can't see Him, He is our best friend.
"For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord."
Romans 8:38-39 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Compassion and caring for one such as me,
Acceptance and love beyond all compare
And willingness always my burdens to bear.
His light and His glory could not be described,
Neither His warmth, in words, though one tried.
He is the Ruler o'er heaven and earth
And yet has deep interest to help us have worth.
Oh, how He cares for every soul,
To save and to heal and make each one whole.
His love is much more than we comprehend.
Though we can't see Him, He is our best friend.
"For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord."
Romans 8:38-39 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Thursday, July 02, 2009
God's Chessboard
July 2, 2009
God has a chessboard! And He has a "game plan" which He wishes to accomplish. When we become yielded to Him He will begin to prepare us for "service". And as we are molded and shaped in Him, He will set us in place on His "chessboard".
He is preparing many for service, and it is important to stand in position wherever He places us, for a game cannot be won if some of the pieces are missing. When He begins to "move" He will need each person for a specific part of His plan.
How exciting it is to be used of Him! However, of this we cannot boast, for this is a "quiet work". The "world" will not see the chessboard, but by the Spirit it will become very clear to those who love Him.
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
God has a chessboard! And He has a "game plan" which He wishes to accomplish. When we become yielded to Him He will begin to prepare us for "service". And as we are molded and shaped in Him, He will set us in place on His "chessboard".
He is preparing many for service, and it is important to stand in position wherever He places us, for a game cannot be won if some of the pieces are missing. When He begins to "move" He will need each person for a specific part of His plan.
How exciting it is to be used of Him! However, of this we cannot boast, for this is a "quiet work". The "world" will not see the chessboard, but by the Spirit it will become very clear to those who love Him.
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Wednesday, July 01, 2009
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
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