Seeds, when planted in a heart
Their own identity impart.
We must guard our hearts from seeds
That would become as prickly weeds.
Tiny seeds we think don't matter
Grow and then more seeds will scatter.
Diligence will root them out
Before they start to grow and sprout.
Little seeds have much potential
And will be quite influential.
A seed which tiny seems to be
May just grow up to be a tree!
"But other (seeds) fell into good ground, and brought forth fruit, some an hundredfold, some sixtyfold, some thirtyfold."
Matthew 13:8 KJV
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Saturday, July 31, 2010
Friday, July 30, 2010
God Bless America
May all of our leaders before our God bow.
Reverence ahd 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.
Therin 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 ahd 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.
Therin 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
Thursday, July 29, 2010
Hope Of Heaven
When we leave earth our lives are not through.
Eternity hinges on that which we do.
We have two choices... Heaven or hell.
To attain Heaven we must live well.
God made provision when He sent His Son,
Desiring that none should be lost... not one.
When we know Jesus our future is sure.
Our promise of Heaven is sealed and secure.
Our God would draw us to be at His side,
Forever and ever in Him to abide.
Even today He calls out to the "lost"
And offers escape from hell's gruesome cost.
"For we know that if our earthly house of this tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens."
II Corinthians 5:1 KJV
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Eternity hinges on that which we do.
We have two choices... Heaven or hell.
To attain Heaven we must live well.
God made provision when He sent His Son,
Desiring that none should be lost... not one.
When we know Jesus our future is sure.
Our promise of Heaven is sealed and secure.
Our God would draw us to be at His side,
Forever and ever in Him to abide.
Even today He calls out to the "lost"
And offers escape from hell's gruesome cost.
"For we know that if our earthly house of this tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens."
II Corinthians 5:1 KJV
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
A Gentle Word
A gentle touch will heal and soothe and set a person free,
For healing comes through nurture and sensitivity.
Wounded folks with deepset need are often tightly bound,
But by the love and grace of God true freedom can be found.
Even simple hurts and "snags" can cause folks to be "numb",
But if we show them love and grace they'll start to overcome.
What joy it is to watch one rise from sorrow into joy
As we by gentleness become to them a needed buoy.
We can cheer so many folks by showing that we care
And lift them out of woundedness just by being there.
They can find the strength to stand because they're not alone
And triumph in their lives again because of love we've shown.
"A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver."
Proverbs 25:11 KJV
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
For healing comes through nurture and sensitivity.
Wounded folks with deepset need are often tightly bound,
But by the love and grace of God true freedom can be found.
Even simple hurts and "snags" can cause folks to be "numb",
But if we show them love and grace they'll start to overcome.
What joy it is to watch one rise from sorrow into joy
As we by gentleness become to them a needed buoy.
We can cheer so many folks by showing that we care
And lift them out of woundedness just by being there.
They can find the strength to stand because they're not alone
And triumph in their lives again because of love we've shown.
"A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver."
Proverbs 25:11 KJV
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Heavenly Balm
In the stillness, in the quiet,
Silently You come...
Breaking through that weariness
Of life's continual "drum".
What refreshing! What sweet peace!
What endearing calm!
Sharing in these moments
With You is heav'nly balm.
Here I listen to Your heart,
The whisper of Your voice,
And linger in Your presence,
To weep and to rejoice.
Quietly I wait on You
In fellowship divine.
Little else is of import
Except with You to dine.
"In thy presence is fulness of joy..."
Psalm 16:11 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Silently You come...
Breaking through that weariness
Of life's continual "drum".
What refreshing! What sweet peace!
What endearing calm!
Sharing in these moments
With You is heav'nly balm.
Here I listen to Your heart,
The whisper of Your voice,
And linger in Your presence,
To weep and to rejoice.
Quietly I wait on You
In fellowship divine.
Little else is of import
Except with You to dine.
"In thy presence is fulness of joy..."
Psalm 16:11 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Monday, July 26, 2010
A Foundation Of Truth
If your situation may seem to demand
That you make a change from where you now "stand",
The change may not be much more than a mite,
But in light of God's word, is it really right?
Change can be subtle and not seem to matter,
But then over time will weaken and scatter
Foundations of truth on which you have stood.
Carefully weigh this... it may not be good.
God's Word is truth and it cannot change.
Upon it's foundation we then should arrange
Our footsteps and lifestyle, lest we be derailed.
As we seek His truth, our eyes won't be "veiled".
"His truth shall be thy shield and buckler."
Psalm 91:4 KJV
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
That you make a change from where you now "stand",
The change may not be much more than a mite,
But in light of God's word, is it really right?
Change can be subtle and not seem to matter,
But then over time will weaken and scatter
Foundations of truth on which you have stood.
Carefully weigh this... it may not be good.
God's Word is truth and it cannot change.
Upon it's foundation we then should arrange
Our footsteps and lifestyle, lest we be derailed.
As we seek His truth, our eyes won't be "veiled".
"His truth shall be thy shield and buckler."
Psalm 91:4 KJV
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sunday, July 25, 2010
A Fragrant Flower
A rose bush, though it brings forth the loveliest of blooms, isn't very pretty. It's stalks are woody and covered with thorns, and sometimes it's leaves are troubled by blight or insects. And if it isn't pruned it's shape becomes rather unsightly. But in spite of all this, it is capable of producing beautiful blooms with fragrance only God could create.
What a picture! God created a beautiful rose in each of His children, meant to blossom forth and spill out His fragrance. But in some cases it just may be surrounded by thorns and blights and troubled circumstances.
If sometimes you are troubled in life because your circumstance is not pretty, and you see too many thorns, or are annoyed by "insects"... and you think the rose God placed in you may never have a bloom with lovely fragrance, do not give up. God wants to bring forth the loveliness of the flower He placed within you. If you look to Him for nurture and receive His pruning as a gift to prosper you, surely fragrance will pour forth.
God has placed His potential for loveliness in you. As you are rooted in the Word you will become the gift of beauty and fragrance which He designed you to be.
"He has made every thing beautiful in his time..."
Ecclesiastes 3:11 KJV
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
What a picture! God created a beautiful rose in each of His children, meant to blossom forth and spill out His fragrance. But in some cases it just may be surrounded by thorns and blights and troubled circumstances.
If sometimes you are troubled in life because your circumstance is not pretty, and you see too many thorns, or are annoyed by "insects"... and you think the rose God placed in you may never have a bloom with lovely fragrance, do not give up. God wants to bring forth the loveliness of the flower He placed within you. If you look to Him for nurture and receive His pruning as a gift to prosper you, surely fragrance will pour forth.
God has placed His potential for loveliness in you. As you are rooted in the Word you will become the gift of beauty and fragrance which He designed you to be.
"He has made every thing beautiful in his time..."
Ecclesiastes 3:11 KJV
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Saturday, July 24, 2010
God's Holy Word
God's Word is holy, and He does not change.
What He has spoken man can't rearrange.
If man just reads to "suit his own taste",
From that point with error his actions are laced.
All of the Word is needful to learn
If evil and wickedness we would discern.
How could we choose which portions are best?
Obedience demands that we make full quest.
Excursions of learning in God's Holy Word
Will pave a safe road and man's heart will gird.
Always the Word will lead us in truth...
Parents ahd children, old folks and youth.
"For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart."
Hebrews 4:12 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
What He has spoken man can't rearrange.
If man just reads to "suit his own taste",
From that point with error his actions are laced.
All of the Word is needful to learn
If evil and wickedness we would discern.
How could we choose which portions are best?
Obedience demands that we make full quest.
Excursions of learning in God's Holy Word
Will pave a safe road and man's heart will gird.
Always the Word will lead us in truth...
Parents ahd children, old folks and youth.
"For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart."
Hebrews 4:12 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Friday, July 23, 2010
People Who Inspire - John M.
John was an humble person and loved the Lord deeply. His transparency was remarkable and beautiful.
He gave a testimony in church one morning, and this was one of the statements he made... "I have discovered that without Jesus I am capable of just about anything"... (meaning sin). This was many years ago, but I've never forgotten what he said. How honest he was! And how honest we all need to be.
To the degree that we let Jesus into our lives is the degree in which we will be free from error and fault. In Him is light and freedom. He is our guide, our helper, our teacher, our fortress. He "tempers" us in all things.
Let Him come in... be free.
"Shew me thy ways, O Lord; teach me thy paths. Lead me
in thy truth, and teach me; for thou art the God of
my salvation; on thee do I wait all the day."
Psalm 25:4-5 KJV
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
He gave a testimony in church one morning, and this was one of the statements he made... "I have discovered that without Jesus I am capable of just about anything"... (meaning sin). This was many years ago, but I've never forgotten what he said. How honest he was! And how honest we all need to be.
To the degree that we let Jesus into our lives is the degree in which we will be free from error and fault. In Him is light and freedom. He is our guide, our helper, our teacher, our fortress. He "tempers" us in all things.
Let Him come in... be free.
"Shew me thy ways, O Lord; teach me thy paths. Lead me
in thy truth, and teach me; for thou art the God of
my salvation; on thee do I wait all the day."
Psalm 25:4-5 KJV
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Changed In His Presence
We wear many "hats" each day,
And sometimes they begin to weigh.
But when we enter Jesus' presence
We find rest and peace in reverence.
Here we let all tensions go,
Things which pull us to and fro.
Daily thoughts will seem as nil
As we are waiting and are still.
We are changed as we wait there
And of His healing are aware.
His presence is a blessed "retreat",
And there in Him we're made complete.
"Surely I will not come into the tabernacle of my house, nor go up into my bed; I will not give sleep to mine eyes, or slumber to mine eyelids, until I find out a place for the Lord, an habitation for the Mighty God of Jacob."
Psalm 132:3-5 KJV
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
And sometimes they begin to weigh.
But when we enter Jesus' presence
We find rest and peace in reverence.
Here we let all tensions go,
Things which pull us to and fro.
Daily thoughts will seem as nil
As we are waiting and are still.
We are changed as we wait there
And of His healing are aware.
His presence is a blessed "retreat",
And there in Him we're made complete.
"Surely I will not come into the tabernacle of my house, nor go up into my bed; I will not give sleep to mine eyes, or slumber to mine eyelids, until I find out a place for the Lord, an habitation for the Mighty God of Jacob."
Psalm 132:3-5 KJV
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
In His Time
The eagle, in God's rightful time,
Will catch the wind and soar and climb.
It cannot soar when not quite ready...
Only when it's wings are steady.
Skill and "savvy" must be learned.
By practice is his high flight earned.
High flight when his wings are weak
Could make him fall and havoc wreak.
Eagles triumph in the sky
And to the doors of Heav'n draw nigh.
In God's timing, seasoned well,
On wind of Spirit they will dwell.
"To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven. He hath made everything beautiful in his time."
Ecclesiastes 3:1, 11 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Will catch the wind and soar and climb.
It cannot soar when not quite ready...
Only when it's wings are steady.
Skill and "savvy" must be learned.
By practice is his high flight earned.
High flight when his wings are weak
Could make him fall and havoc wreak.
Eagles triumph in the sky
And to the doors of Heav'n draw nigh.
In God's timing, seasoned well,
On wind of Spirit they will dwell.
"To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven. He hath made everything beautiful in his time."
Ecclesiastes 3:1, 11 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Fashioned By God
If you haven't found God's purpose for your life and for each day,
You may be treading water as His best plan slips away.
Searching for fulfillment without His guiding hand
May cause you to make error or may leave you feeling bland.
God's design will bring you to a place which is unique
And give you opportunity... much more than you would seek.
Any venture hand-in-hand with God is better than
The goals and works and simple tasks which you yourself might plan.
How unfortunate the loss when "purpose" isn't found
And life becomes a treadmill where you just go 'round and 'round.
"Purpose" formed by God's own hand is joyous, full and rich.
And what He has designed for you is your own special niche.
"Thy hands have made me and fashioned me..."
Psalm 119:73 KJV
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
You may be treading water as His best plan slips away.
Searching for fulfillment without His guiding hand
May cause you to make error or may leave you feeling bland.
God's design will bring you to a place which is unique
And give you opportunity... much more than you would seek.
Any venture hand-in-hand with God is better than
The goals and works and simple tasks which you yourself might plan.
How unfortunate the loss when "purpose" isn't found
And life becomes a treadmill where you just go 'round and 'round.
"Purpose" formed by God's own hand is joyous, full and rich.
And what He has designed for you is your own special niche.
"Thy hands have made me and fashioned me..."
Psalm 119:73 KJV
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Monday, July 19, 2010
Worship On My Mind
Worship wafts throughout my day
In colorful and blessed array,
Bright'ning every thought I have,
Cheering me as healing salve.
Threads of song and lines of praise
Become as sunshine's warming rays,
Lifting me from daily task
And causing me in joy to bask.
Time is happily defined
When I have worship on my mind.
God is awesome... to be praised.
Let all my thoughts to Him be raised...
"Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice."
Philippians 4:4 KJV
"Give unto the Lord the glory due unto his name; worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness."
Psalm 29:2 KJV
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
In colorful and blessed array,
Bright'ning every thought I have,
Cheering me as healing salve.
Threads of song and lines of praise
Become as sunshine's warming rays,
Lifting me from daily task
And causing me in joy to bask.
Time is happily defined
When I have worship on my mind.
God is awesome... to be praised.
Let all my thoughts to Him be raised...
"Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice."
Philippians 4:4 KJV
"Give unto the Lord the glory due unto his name; worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness."
Psalm 29:2 KJV
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sunday, July 18, 2010
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' nanme
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' nanme
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
Saturday, July 17, 2010
A Cent Or Two...
What we offer may be small...
A cent or two or such...
But offered from a heart of love,
The Lord sees that as much.
Jesus looks upon the heart
Of one with lowly means,
And has joy in that faithful one
Who on His promise leans.
He will honor that small gift
And blessings multiply,
Pouring out His goodness
And His love in sweet reply.
"And he looked up, and saw the rich men casting their gifts into the treasury. And he saw also a certain poor widow casting in thither two mites. And he said, Of a truth I say unto you, that this poor widow hath cast in more than they all: For all these have of their abundance cast in unto the offerings of God: but she of her penury hath cast in all the living that she had."
Luke 21:1-4 KJV
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
A cent or two or such...
But offered from a heart of love,
The Lord sees that as much.
Jesus looks upon the heart
Of one with lowly means,
And has joy in that faithful one
Who on His promise leans.
He will honor that small gift
And blessings multiply,
Pouring out His goodness
And His love in sweet reply.
"And he looked up, and saw the rich men casting their gifts into the treasury. And he saw also a certain poor widow casting in thither two mites. And he said, Of a truth I say unto you, that this poor widow hath cast in more than they all: For all these have of their abundance cast in unto the offerings of God: but she of her penury hath cast in all the living that she had."
Luke 21:1-4 KJV
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Friday, July 16, 2010
The Gift Of Color
God must have a giant brush...
Offering colors which are lush...
Painted beauty everywhere
For mountains, trees and plants to wear.
Nature bursts with color's gift,
Our spirit and our soul to lift,
Painted there to bring delight,
His loving signature to write.
"Wrapped" in color, we are blessed
And by His artistry impressed...
Shades and hues of warmth and light
To cheer our lives and make them bright!
"O Lord, our Lord, how excellent is thy name in all the earth!"
Psalm 8:9 KJV
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Offering colors which are lush...
Painted beauty everywhere
For mountains, trees and plants to wear.
Nature bursts with color's gift,
Our spirit and our soul to lift,
Painted there to bring delight,
His loving signature to write.
"Wrapped" in color, we are blessed
And by His artistry impressed...
Shades and hues of warmth and light
To cheer our lives and make them bright!
"O Lord, our Lord, how excellent is thy name in all the earth!"
Psalm 8:9 KJV
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Thursday, July 15, 2010
High Places
In God we have purpose and reach for high goals.
He guides us and helps us to find our true roles.
But each time we think our labors are done
God may have new work which He has begun.
He stretches and bends us to prosper and grow.
He leads us to dwell where His fresh waters flow.
To be in the center of God's perfect will
Will fill us with wisdom and prayerful skill.
He is the strength and the power and might
Which carry us bravely to breathtaking height.
We need not look back, but always look up.
With His richest blessings He will fill our cup.
"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
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
He guides us and helps us to find our true roles.
But each time we think our labors are done
God may have new work which He has begun.
He stretches and bends us to prosper and grow.
He leads us to dwell where His fresh waters flow.
To be in the center of God's perfect will
Will fill us with wisdom and prayerful skill.
He is the strength and the power and might
Which carry us bravely to breathtaking height.
We need not look back, but always look up.
With His richest blessings He will fill our cup.
"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
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
The Master's Touch
When we start out, we are but clay.
Without God's hand, clay we will stay!
If we submit to His skillful touch,
He will adorn us with beauty and such.
What great adventure to rest in His hand
And let Him adorn us as first He had planned!
We cannot capture or know His intent
But joy in the "artwork" we know He'll present.
When He has made us a vessel of worth
He then will fill us with heavenly mirth,
Perfecting us daily with wisdom and grace,
Holding us carefully in His embrace.
"But now, O Lord, thou art our father; we are the clay, and thou our potter; and we all are the work of thy hand."
Isaiah 64:8 KJV
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Without God's hand, clay we will stay!
If we submit to His skillful touch,
He will adorn us with beauty and such.
What great adventure to rest in His hand
And let Him adorn us as first He had planned!
We cannot capture or know His intent
But joy in the "artwork" we know He'll present.
When He has made us a vessel of worth
He then will fill us with heavenly mirth,
Perfecting us daily with wisdom and grace,
Holding us carefully in His embrace.
"But now, O Lord, thou art our father; we are the clay, and thou our potter; and we all are the work of thy hand."
Isaiah 64:8 KJV
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Many Doors
Life will offer many doors.
Behind each one are varied "stores".
God will show us where to knock,
But on some doors He'll place a lock.
Some we really need to ope,
For inside we'll find joy and hope.
Each door is an entry way
Of wisdom which He would convey.
What is there may be unknown
And cause us inwardly to groan...
But if God unlocks the door
Inside must be golden "store".
Many doors our lives entice,
And some will carry quite high price.
But if we do not compromise
We will find God's highest prize.
"Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shalll direct thy paths."
Proverbs 3:5 KJV
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Behind each one are varied "stores".
God will show us where to knock,
But on some doors He'll place a lock.
Some we really need to ope,
For inside we'll find joy and hope.
Each door is an entry way
Of wisdom which He would convey.
What is there may be unknown
And cause us inwardly to groan...
But if God unlocks the door
Inside must be golden "store".
Many doors our lives entice,
And some will carry quite high price.
But if we do not compromise
We will find God's highest prize.
"Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shalll direct thy paths."
Proverbs 3:5 KJV
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Monday, July 12, 2010
Bless The LORD, O My Soul
We cannot even measure God's benefits to us.
Oh what blessing, oh what joy, His goodness to discuss.
More than we imagine He hovers near our side
And joys in being with us to cover and to guide.
All that we can fathom is only a small start
Of that which He would give us and wishes to impart.
We are subjects of His love and awesome, healing touch.
Glory be unto our God that He would care so much!
Let us offer vibrant praise and worship with our voice.
Magnify His holy name, give honor and rejoice!
God is high above the heav'ns, yet hears our every prayer.
With our lives and in our hearts His goodness we declare!
"Bless the Lord, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name"
Psalm 103:2 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Oh what blessing, oh what joy, His goodness to discuss.
More than we imagine He hovers near our side
And joys in being with us to cover and to guide.
All that we can fathom is only a small start
Of that which He would give us and wishes to impart.
We are subjects of His love and awesome, healing touch.
Glory be unto our God that He would care so much!
Let us offer vibrant praise and worship with our voice.
Magnify His holy name, give honor and rejoice!
God is high above the heav'ns, yet hears our every prayer.
With our lives and in our hearts His goodness we declare!
"Bless the Lord, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name"
Psalm 103:2 KJV
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sunday, July 11, 2010
A Birthday Cake
A birthday cake will signal one more year...
A new one to explore as the old one shuts it's door,
Reflection of the times which were so dear
And anticipation of good times in store.
A year is a great gift... a precious prize to hold,
A chance to make a difference or to soar,
Adventure as you watch each day unfold,
And accomplish more than you have done before.
If you give some thought to what you'll do
The days won't just slip past without import.
God might show you something which is new.
Enter in with joy, for a year can be quite short.
"Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning."
James 1:17 KJV
"Serve the Lord with gladness..."
Psalm 100:2 KJV
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
A new one to explore as the old one shuts it's door,
Reflection of the times which were so dear
And anticipation of good times in store.
A year is a great gift... a precious prize to hold,
A chance to make a difference or to soar,
Adventure as you watch each day unfold,
And accomplish more than you have done before.
If you give some thought to what you'll do
The days won't just slip past without import.
God might show you something which is new.
Enter in with joy, for a year can be quite short.
"Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning."
James 1:17 KJV
"Serve the Lord with gladness..."
Psalm 100:2 KJV
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Saturday, July 10, 2010
Listening For His Voice
Drawing nigh unto the Lord
Will bring us insight and reward.
Drawing near we hear His voice...
A wondrous reason to rejoice!
Who are we... compared to God?
And yet in Him by grace we're shod.
He Who listens to our prayers
Rules o'er all, but truly cares.
"Listening" becomes a joy
As He gives wisdom to employ.
He, indeed, is our best friend,
On Whose voice we can depend.
"The Lord is nigh unto all them that call upon him, to all that call upon him in truth. He will fulfil the desire of them that fear him: he also will hear their cry, and will save them."
Psalm 145:18-19 KJV
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Will bring us insight and reward.
Drawing near we hear His voice...
A wondrous reason to rejoice!
Who are we... compared to God?
And yet in Him by grace we're shod.
He Who listens to our prayers
Rules o'er all, but truly cares.
"Listening" becomes a joy
As He gives wisdom to employ.
He, indeed, is our best friend,
On Whose voice we can depend.
"The Lord is nigh unto all them that call upon him, to all that call upon him in truth. He will fulfil the desire of them that fear him: he also will hear their cry, and will save them."
Psalm 145:18-19 KJV
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Friday, July 09, 2010
Who Is Watching?
We may never know who is watching us,
Who pattern their lives on our actions thus.
If we're a "window" which people look through,
Let us be sincere and always true-blue.
Let them see Jesus each time that they look.
Let wisdom be there as an open book.
We may be light or start a new fire
For one reaching up... new heights to aspire.
We may impact someone we don't know
And cause them to change, to stretch and to grow.
Living for Jesus is really "top-notch"
And will make impression on any who watch.
"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
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Who pattern their lives on our actions thus.
If we're a "window" which people look through,
Let us be sincere and always true-blue.
Let them see Jesus each time that they look.
Let wisdom be there as an open book.
We may be light or start a new fire
For one reaching up... new heights to aspire.
We may impact someone we don't know
And cause them to change, to stretch and to grow.
Living for Jesus is really "top-notch"
And will make impression on any who watch.
"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
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Thursday, July 08, 2010
Doing Your Best
No matter how tiny the error that you make,
To just let it stand is a real mistake.
Make it right then, before you go on,
Before opportunity shifts and is gone.
For that which is "finished" with error at it's core
Will always have flaw which you cannot ignore,
Disturbing your peace so you cannot rest.
This memory of error is an unhappy guest.
That which is done, but not done quite right,
Won't have as much beauty or bring you delight.
If you show diligence and then follow through,
That which you've done will bring much joy to you.
"...Whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God."
I Corinthians 10:31 KJV
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
To just let it stand is a real mistake.
Make it right then, before you go on,
Before opportunity shifts and is gone.
For that which is "finished" with error at it's core
Will always have flaw which you cannot ignore,
Disturbing your peace so you cannot rest.
This memory of error is an unhappy guest.
That which is done, but not done quite right,
Won't have as much beauty or bring you delight.
If you show diligence and then follow through,
That which you've done will bring much joy to you.
"...Whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God."
I Corinthians 10:31 KJV
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Wednesday, July 07, 2010
It's Not Too Late
Have you ever been at a point where you thought, "It's too late", and then wondered what was next? In times like this we need the Lord's perspective, for our own perspective sometimes runs out.
And this is maybe good. In Him we find new beginnings, new ideas, refreshing and possibility. When we are no longer able, we need to turn to the One Who is always able.
Coming to the end of ourselves is an open door for the Lord to work wonders. He will pick us up out of where we are and set us on a new path... a path of peace and blessing. Always in Him we are blessed.
"I called upon the Lord in distress: the Lord answered me, and set me in a large place."
Psalm 118:5 KJV
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
And this is maybe good. In Him we find new beginnings, new ideas, refreshing and possibility. When we are no longer able, we need to turn to the One Who is always able.
Coming to the end of ourselves is an open door for the Lord to work wonders. He will pick us up out of where we are and set us on a new path... a path of peace and blessing. Always in Him we are blessed.
"I called upon the Lord in distress: the Lord answered me, and set me in a large place."
Psalm 118:5 KJV
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Tuesday, July 06, 2010
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
Monday, July 05, 2010
As Confetti...
God's blessings are so many that we could never count
The measures of His goodness or know the whole amount.
Sprinkling down upon us as confetti in the air
Is lovingkindness from His hand, e'en when we aren't aware.
We are covered by His love much more than we could guess.
His kindness is much greater than we can e'er express.
Celebrate our awesome God! Rejoice and give Him praise!
Worship Him with joyous song! All glory to Him raise!
"The Lord taketh pleasure in them that fear him, in those that hope in his mercy."
Psalm 147:11 KJV
"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
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
The measures of His goodness or know the whole amount.
Sprinkling down upon us as confetti in the air
Is lovingkindness from His hand, e'en when we aren't aware.
We are covered by His love much more than we could guess.
His kindness is much greater than we can e'er express.
Celebrate our awesome God! Rejoice and give Him praise!
Worship Him with joyous song! All glory to Him raise!
"The Lord taketh pleasure in them that fear him, in those that hope in his mercy."
Psalm 147:11 KJV
"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
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sunday, July 04, 2010
Guarding Our Freedom
I am grateful for my country
And the freedoms we have had.
We must guard our liberty...
In prayer we must be clad.
Prayer is the avenue
We need to travel now
To offset evil plans and schemes
And cause men's hearts to bow.
God will hear our urgent prayers
And gird us round about.
Prayer will bring us answers.
We must trust and not have doubt.
We have God's own promise,
And He never breaks His Word.
If we take the time to pray
Our prayers will be heard.
"If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land."
II Chronicles 7:14 KJV
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
And the freedoms we have had.
We must guard our liberty...
In prayer we must be clad.
Prayer is the avenue
We need to travel now
To offset evil plans and schemes
And cause men's hearts to bow.
God will hear our urgent prayers
And gird us round about.
Prayer will bring us answers.
We must trust and not have doubt.
We have God's own promise,
And He never breaks His Word.
If we take the time to pray
Our prayers will be heard.
"If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land."
II Chronicles 7:14 KJV
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Saturday, July 03, 2010
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
Friday, July 02, 2010
A Sweet Savor
Let worship be as a sweet-smelling savor,
Sacrifice offered from hearts which don't waver,
Fragrant and pure to our precious Lord,
For all of the blessings on our lives outpoured.
Let it rise up with joy and thanksgiving,
Blossoming forth, glorious and "living",
Constantly flowing in beauteous expression
Of gratefulness, holiness and intercession.
Let worship rise in sweet exaltation,
Issuing forth through all of creation,
Blanketing all in sweet admonition
To give our great God His due recognition.
"Give unto the Lord the glory due unto his name: bring an offering, and come before him: worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness."
I Chronicles 16:29 KJV
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sacrifice offered from hearts which don't waver,
Fragrant and pure to our precious Lord,
For all of the blessings on our lives outpoured.
Let it rise up with joy and thanksgiving,
Blossoming forth, glorious and "living",
Constantly flowing in beauteous expression
Of gratefulness, holiness and intercession.
Let worship rise in sweet exaltation,
Issuing forth through all of creation,
Blanketing all in sweet admonition
To give our great God His due recognition.
"Give unto the Lord the glory due unto his name: bring an offering, and come before him: worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness."
I Chronicles 16:29 KJV
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Thursday, July 01, 2010
Let Peace Abound
Let the peace of the Lord abound...
His peace is profound... as quiet as still waters, as refreshing as a soft breeze on a warm day, as gentle as the morning dew... an oasis in the heat of day.
Breathe in His peace. Let it absorb into your spirit. Experience transformation as all tension ebbs away. Reside in it's atmosphere and let it heal you.
The peace of the Lord is so worth pursuing. It is His provision for us in all circumstance and is life-changing.
Let peace abound...
"He leadeth me beside the still waters."
Psalm 23:2 KJV
"Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee."
Isaiah 26:3 KJV
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
His peace is profound... as quiet as still waters, as refreshing as a soft breeze on a warm day, as gentle as the morning dew... an oasis in the heat of day.
Breathe in His peace. Let it absorb into your spirit. Experience transformation as all tension ebbs away. Reside in it's atmosphere and let it heal you.
The peace of the Lord is so worth pursuing. It is His provision for us in all circumstance and is life-changing.
Let peace abound...
"He leadeth me beside the still waters."
Psalm 23:2 KJV
"Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee."
Isaiah 26:3 KJV
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)