Monday, November 30, 2009

Meaningful Prayer

When you don't know how to pray,
It is best to simply say,
"Father, let Thy will be done.
Finish what You have begun."

Then rest in faith that He will hear.
Release to Him all doubt and fear.
Let His "stillness" have increase.
Let Him fill you with His peace.

Sometimes when we rush to pray
And simply don't know what to say,
We may stumble or make error.
Remember, then, this holy prayer...

"Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven..."
Matthew 6:10 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Sunday, November 29, 2009

Established In Him

People feel good when they are established
In home or a job or family or school
But then may be shaken if change comes along,
For change is unsettling and can overrule.

When they are "grounded" with Jesus as Lord,
If order and patterns they live by each day
May suddenly turn obsolete without worth,
They will not falter or wobble or stray.

He is an Anchor which cannot be shaken.
His people will never be lost or forsaken.
He is the rock on which they may stand
When life all around them is as shifting sand.

"For thou art my rock and fortress; therefore for thy name's sake lead me, and guide me."
Psalm 31;3 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Saturday, November 28, 2009

Many Surprises

Cupboards and closets hold many surprises.
Cleaning them out my space maximizes.
Back in the corners small things seem to hide.
Things I've not seen for a time there reside...

Things I've misplaced or thought I had lost...
Even some things which should have been tossed!
Having some space just seems to attact
More clutter, until the space becomes packed!

Having made space I should lock the door!
Then I won't save or collect even more!
I must decide to not collect "stuff".
I already have more than enough!

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Friday, November 27, 2009

Used Of God

How big the gift which you will give
That other folks may brightly live?
What will you offer to a soul
Who has much need to be made whole?

When we have a special "call"
To bypass self and offer all,
We just must not miss the chance
Or even give a sideway glance.

God will show to us those needs
Where we may give and plant good seeds.
He will use us mightily
If we will "hear" an urgent plea.

As we're open to His call
He'll use us in things great and small.
Walking as He gives us lead
All other "pleasures" will exceed.

"Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends."
John 15:13 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Thursday, November 26, 2009

His Name Is High

We are surrounded by good and by plenty.
God meets our needs in miraculous ways!
Let us be mindful of His glorious bounty
And lift up a song of thanksgiving and praise.

His name is high... above any other...
Worthy of honor and reverence and praise.
Let us lift up our hearts and our hands
And to our great God celebration raise!

"I will bless the Lord at all times; his praise shall continually be in my mouth. My soul shall make her boast in the Lord: the humble shall hear thereof, and be glad. O magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt his name together."
Psalm 34:1-3 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkpf

Wednesday, November 25, 2009

Thanksgiving Thoughts

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

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

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

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

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Where The Spirit Of The Lord Is

Where the Spirit of God is the people will flourish.
Those who are His He always will "nourish".
His people know that in Him there is hope.
Their understanding is broader in scope.

God is so faithful to care for His own.
They do not falter or fear the unknown.
In Him they find the strength for each day
And, filled with His joy, in confidence pray.

In Him they prosper and soar to new heights,
Rising above many everyday plights.
They follow Him and give ear to His voice.
What treasure they have... and how they rejoice!

"Now the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty."
II Corinthians 3:17 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Monday, November 23, 2009

A Peace-Maker's Walk

A peace-maker's walk is humble and low.
Wherever he goes his prayers he will sow.
He looks at life through peace-loving glasses
And seeks God for wisdom to solve life's impasses.

He will move first when tensions are high
To break down tall barriers in those who deny
That they might be wrong or threw the first stone,
For in their denial they stand all alone.

He always moves in love... without threat,
To rebuild old bridges and save much regret.
He "settles" waters which deeply are troubled.
By his sweet actions God's blessings are doubled.

"Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God."
Matthew 5:9 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Sunday, November 22, 2009

A Season Of Thankfulness

October is over, November is here...
Season's reminder Thanksgiving is near,
...A time to remember what Thanksgiving means,
Other than "holidays" and "cuisines".

This day was birthed in the hearts of a few
Who came "oh so far" from all that they knew,
Seeking to worship their God and their King,
Searching for freedom His praises to sing.

Suff'ring severely, they did not give up,
Believing each day God would fill their cup.
Thanksgiving then was a time to rejoice.
In glory to God they praised and gave voice.

Let us remember these brave, humble folk.
Their faith and example in us should evoke
Prayers and thanksgiving that freedom still rings
And for all of the bounty which God daily brings.

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

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Saturday, November 21, 2009

Old-Fashioned Goodness

How I appreciate old-fashioned neighbors,
Who reach out in kindness without thought of labors
Of doing for others and spreading good will...
Who reach out in love to those who are ill,

Who speak a good word where'er there is need
And offer encouragement by a good deed.
These folks are rich in kind-hearted living
And spread love and peace by sharing and giving.

They are like sunshine and rainbows of hope
To those who are down and can't seem to cope.
Praise God for neighbors who offer some cheer.
These folks, in God's eyes, are special and dear.

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Friday, November 20, 2009

Strong Trees

Godly folks are as strong trees
Whose roots go very deep
Into the soil of righteousness
And many harvests reap.

Planted in the Word of God
And with humble raiment shod,
They will nurture and "shade" folks,
Causing them to be as oaks...

Strong in stature, reaching high
Unto Heaven to draw nigh,
Having roots which go down deep
And even more rich harvests reap.

"Blessed is the man... whose 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 1:1-3 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Thursday, November 19, 2009

Brightening Someone's Holiday

There are folks I know
And I wonder where they go
At the holidays and such...
Or if they will have much.

It causes me to think,
"Will they have a warming drink
Or a meal to satisfy
When poverty draws nigh?"

If we will just ask
God will show us some small task
In which we could take part
To cheer another's heart.

For one who is alone
Some act of love we've shown
Might bring some needed light
And serve to make things bright.

"Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye so even to them.."
Matthew 7:12 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

Winter Warm

Gather up a harvest of good memories to store,
To warm your heart in "winter" when the rain and windstorms roar.
Memories of jobs well done and times spent with the Lord
Will be there in the "cold times" as a warming, rich reward.

It's good to meditate upon the good things God has done
And thank Him for the peace He gives and battles which were won.
Keep a "scrapbook" in your heart of treasures to review,
And draw strength from it's pages just to help you winter through...

Until the season finds repose and sunshine filters through,
And you can seed new harvests which you later will review.
Seasons come and seasons go, but autumn says "prepare".
Gather up a harvest which will counter winter's fare.

"Only take heed to thyself, and keep thy soul diligently, lest thou forget the things which thine eyes have seen, and lest they depart from thy heart all the days of thy life: but teach them thy sons, and thy sons' sons."
Deuteronomy 4:9 KJV

"Seek the Lord and his strength, seek his face continually. Remember his marvellous works that he hath done, his wonders, and the judgments of his mouth."
I Chronicles 16:12 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

Love Breaks Through

Love can heal and calm and soothe,
And kindness is good measure.
No matter what the conflict,
Loving words are a rich treasure...

Moving mountains, melting "ice",
Breaking down high barriers.
Those who choose to speak in love
Are blessed, "good news" carriers.

Though some words are cruel and mean
And challenge love's good will,
Confidence in love's great power
Will cause us to be "still"...

Believing for the hand of God
To bridge o'er pain and sorrow.
Knowing love is able,
We can better face the morrow.

"He that covereth a transgression seeketh love..."
Proverbs 17:9 KJV

"Love endures long and is patient and kind. Love never fails (never fades out or becomes obsolete or comes to an end)."
I Corinthians 13:4, 8 Amplified Bible

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Monday, November 16, 2009

God Sees The Heart

Outward appearance can sure be a sham
And cause folks to not know just who I am,
But God sees through this and looks on the heart.
I cannot fool Him with clothing or art.

And what's in the heart will speak through the tongue
And cause my "facade" to be all unstrung.
I can't pretend... it wouldn't make sense.
Before our great God, there is no "defense".

So I will check my actions each day,
Using God's wisdom lest I go astray.
I want to please Him in action and deed
But sure need His help if I'm to succeed!

"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

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Sunday, November 15, 2009

Urgent Times

The "wares" of the world are many and varied.
They've offered distractions wherever we've tarried.
But now it is time to weigh what we do,
To make sure our efforts aren't just "much ado".

This is a season to draw close to God,
To "lay down" the paths upon which we've trod
And let Him have sway in the core of our being,
To know if His will we truly are seeing.

He then will show us if we are in sync.
It may be different from how we now think.
The times we are in are rapidly changing,
And all that we do might need re-arranging.

Whatever may come, we need to be ready.
If we are "tuned in", He will keep us steady.
Let His Kingdom values in us have new birth.
Let all that we do before Him have worth.

"Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not, the son of man cometh."
Matthew 24:44 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Saturday, November 14, 2009

Laughter Is Better

Laughter is better than sorrow and tears,
And hope is much better than anger and fears.
Laughter and joy are as sweet, healing balm
In the midst of anxiety when we need calm.

Look on the light side... refuse to get down.
Wear a bright smile in place of a frown.
Laughter breaks tension when problems loom large,
And we need not struggle when God is in charge.

God gives us hope and deep peace for each day,
And He is well able our problems to weigh.
Only in Him can we laugh through the "storm".
He is our strength, and His joy is our norm.

"Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God."
Psalm 42:11 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Friday, November 13, 2009

We Need You, LORD

We need You, Lord, so very much.
We need Your gentle, healing touch.
Wash and cleanse us from sin's stain,
Lest our lives be spent in vain.

Guide our footsteps day-by-day.
In our lives we give You sway.
Teach us, Lord. Our lives renew,
For all our hope is found in You.

"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

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Thursday, November 12, 2009

New Doors

God gives opportunity and opens many doors,
And pours out many benefits from His heav'nly stores.
If you've reached a point of change and don't know where to turn,
Be alert for open doors or paths of new sojourn.

God will prosper you beyond just what you know or think
And startle you with all-new change which just might make you blink!
When the plans are His design, have peace in what He does.
Don't look back and wonder just what might have been or was.

Always what the Lord would give will stretch and make you grow,
But He won't give too great a load or "fields which you can't sow".
It is He Who made you, and He'll always give His best
Into your life in every way so you'll be greatly blessed.

"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 3:17 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Wednesday, November 11, 2009

Veteran's Day

TRIBUTE TO OUR VETS

Thank you, Vets, for standing strong,
Defending freedom's cause.
You are heroes with brave hearts
For whom we give applause!

Many were the trials and pain
Of battles you have fought.
By suff'ring you have paid the price
And our great freedom bought.

Thank you for the "gift" you've giv'n
By selfless sacrifice.
You have marched in our behalf
In wars with very high price.

Today we pay you tribute
For the victories you have won
And offer up our gratitude
For all that you have done.

"Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends."
John 15:13 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Tuesday, November 10, 2009

Goodness

"Goodness" builds a pretty house.
Warmth and love she will espouse.
Her rooms are filled with joy and health
And happiness... she has much wealth.

"Goodness" is a choice we make,
Sweet opportunity we take.
She will change our wordly view
From "negative" to "bright and new".

"Goodness" has an open door
Where we may enter and find more.
Her peace and joy are without end.
"Goodness" is a lovely friend.

"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law."
Galatians 5:22-23 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Monday, November 09, 2009

Godly Roots

In the "landscape" of a life, sometimes seeds take root and grow.
And they become as plants and trees with roots which then cause woe.
Though the trees may be cut down the roots are still in place
And hinder God from working there because they take up space.

In the "landscape" of a life it is good to till the soil
By the Spirit and the Word... any "foreign" roots to foil.
Plants which grow amiss sap vitality and life,
And good roots which should grow then are weakened by this "strife".

God is able to "root out" odd plants which may have grown
And cause to flourish all those plants whose seed by Him were sown.
"Landscapes" sown with holy seeds bring glory to His name
And constantly show witness... His beauty to proclaim.

"Blessed is the man... whose 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 1:1-3 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Sunday, November 08, 2009

In Times Of Trial

When you're under tension and it feels just like a broiler,
Chase self-pity from your door... it really is a spoiler!
If you're going through a lot, ask God to make you strong,
To help you shape your attitudes against that which is wrong.

Often we are tested far beyond our comfort zone,
But feeling sorry for ourselves just makes us moan and groan.
If we lean on Jesus when we think we cannot stand,
We have more ability to meet life's harsh demand.

He is there to buoy us up, to help us overcome,
To raise us up above the fray and all that makes us glum.
He will fill us with His might and make us versatile.
We can be triumphant even in life's toughest trial!

"Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: but rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy."
I Peter 4:12-13 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Saturday, November 07, 2009

Morning Dew

God's blessings come down as dew in the morn,
Refreshing and goodness our lives to adorn.
Our God is great, and loving and kind,
And pours out His riches in gifts hand-designed.

Receive of His blessings... gather the "dew",
For each day has treasure designed just for you.
Taste of the freshness and savor it's "scent".
Breathe in it's fragrance... for you it is meant.

Don't waste the dew... each morning it's new
And holds special promise for you to pursue.
Gently it falls as we are at rest
And waits for our waking so we may be blessed.

"It is of the Lord's mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness."
Lamentations 3:22-23 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Friday, November 06, 2009

A Lighthouse In The Darkness

The Lord is a lighthouse, where all may come in,
A refuge and shelter from pain and chagrin,
A warm healing balm for those who are weak,
Salvation and hope for lives which are bleak.

To those who question or have any doubt,
His light is sure and ne'er will go out.
When darkness comes and seems to surround,
Know that His light will always abound.

In Him are hope and safety and joy.
He'll give you peace as an anchor and buoy
To steady you through the storms you may face
And always to cover you with love's embrace.

"I am come a light into the world, that whosoever believeth on me should not abide in darkness."
John 12:46 KJV

"The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?"
Psalm 27:1 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Thursday, November 05, 2009

People Who Inspire - John

In Memory of John Richardson
January 9, 1928 - October 23, 2009


A man of God extraordinaire,
A seasoned patriarch of prayer,
One who lives to serve the Lord
And surely will have great reward.

Humble servant, faithful friend,
One who would for souls contend,
He's "Papa John", a well-loved name,
As many children will proclaim.

A ready vessel, a mighty tower...
A channel for God's might and power,
Patient, kind and full of light,
A treasured "candle" shining bright.

"Blessed is the man... whose 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 1:1-3 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Wednesday, November 04, 2009

Ego

"Ego" is a little word,
But oft it's size is quite absurd.
It pats itself upon the back
And of graciousness has lack.

It boasts and grins and thinks it's wise.
It's much too big for it's own size.
Ego can get one in trouble
When someone comes and "pops it's bubble".

Ego's house is built on sand
And in a wind storm will not stand.
Ego needs to seek firm ground.
Humility is much more sound!

"Love is not boastful or vainglorious, does not display itself haughtily. It is not conceited (arrogant and inflated with pride)."
I Corininthians 13:5 Amplified Bible

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Tuesday, November 03, 2009

A Boy Full Of Love

It truly is a blessing
To hear my grandson's voice.
He always is so cheerful
And makes my heart rejoice!

What a joy to watch him grow
And see him prosper in the Lord.
How can words express to him
How very much he is adored?

He is filled with love and light,
Laughter, gentleness and joy.
God has showered many gifts
On this precious little boy!

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Monday, November 02, 2009

The Door Of His Presence

Blessed are those who wait on Me,
Who hearken to My voice.
Blessed are those who find My rest,
Who deep within rejoice.

Many walk right by the "door"
And hurry on their way.
I long to spend some time with them
And speak into their day.

I am always waiting for
The slightest nod or smile...
Of fellowship with those I love,
To make their lives worthwhile.

I have sorrow as I watch them
Suffer pain and trial,
And ponder why they cannot see
They're living in denial.

As they rush along their path
They'll need Me more and more,
And I will be here waiting...
If they'll enter at My door.

"Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore."
Psalm 16:11 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Sunday, November 01, 2009

Well Done

Every seamstress knows that her seams will all unravel
If she doesn't tie off threads to make her seams secure.
She must practice diligence in finishing her work
If she wants to make a garment which will wear well and endure.

She has learned a lesson - that details really matter,
And work which is haphazard doesn't meet a final test.
But she can rest in knowing when her work is finely done
That her goal was well-accomplished, for she has done her best.

Always we should strive to work toward excellence and beauty.
In all our daily taks let us finish with finesse.
Let us bring an offering of quality and worthiness
In honor to our Lord and King, for He would not do less.

"And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men."
Colossians 3:23 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf