When I think of lovely things
My heart smiles, my spirit sings.
"Loveliness" brings joy and peace,
From daily tensions brings release.
When I train my thoughts to be
On beauty God would have me see,
Then I start to recognize
His beauty right before my eyes.
My perspective has new scope.
Things I had not seen will "ope".
When I seek and stay aware,
God brings beauty everywhere.
"Whatsoever things are lovely, think on these things..."
Philippians 4:8 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Monday, May 30, 2011
Freedom's Cause
Men of bravery, men of gold,
Men of youth, men of old,
We salute you once again
For guarding us where'er you've been.
Some, with your own lives, have paid.
Your memory will never fade.
You stood strong through battles tough.
Our tribute ne'er will be enough.
So today we humbly pause
Because you fought for freedom's cause.
Unselfishly you gave your all
When you answered country's call.
Thank you, one and all who serve.
Highest honors you deserve!
Whene'er we see you we are proud.
In prayer for you our hearts are bowed.
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Men of youth, men of old,
We salute you once again
For guarding us where'er you've been.
Some, with your own lives, have paid.
Your memory will never fade.
You stood strong through battles tough.
Our tribute ne'er will be enough.
So today we humbly pause
Because you fought for freedom's cause.
Unselfishly you gave your all
When you answered country's call.
Thank you, one and all who serve.
Highest honors you deserve!
Whene'er we see you we are proud.
In prayer for you our hearts are bowed.
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sunday, May 29, 2011
One-Of-A-Kind
God has made us... every one.
Rejoice in what the Lord has done!
We are worthy in His sight.
In each one He has delight.
Who or what can put us down
Or cause us not to smile but frown?
When we recognize our worth,
In our lives great things find berth.
His plan is one-of-a-kind unique...
Deserving of our time to seek.
When we find our special niche,
In Him our lives are truly rich.
"Thy hands have made me and fashioned me..."
Psalm 119:73 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Rejoice in what the Lord has done!
We are worthy in His sight.
In each one He has delight.
Who or what can put us down
Or cause us not to smile but frown?
When we recognize our worth,
In our lives great things find berth.
His plan is one-of-a-kind unique...
Deserving of our time to seek.
When we find our special niche,
In Him our lives are truly rich.
"Thy hands have made me and fashioned me..."
Psalm 119:73 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Saturday, May 28, 2011
Reminiscing
Does anyone besides me remember old-fashioned curtain stretchers? When I was little people dried their clothes on a clothesline (no dryers back then). But if you hung curtains on a clothesline they would dry crooked and not hang straight when you put them back up, so we used a curtain stretcher to dry them.
We had lots of lace curtains in our large, old home. Washing them was really easier than it sounds because we had a curtain stretcher on which to dry them. A curtain stretcher is a wood frame (with legs which prop it up), which has short "pins" (pointed end up) close together all around the edges. The frame could be adjusted to the size of the curtain. By setting it so there was some tension on the curtain, the curtains would dry without wrinkles and would not need pressing. (We didn't have steam irons back then).
My mom would wash our curtains and then we would hook the edges of each curtain over the pins on the stretcher frame. The pins were long enough so that we could put more than one curtain on the frame at a time. If it was a warm day we set the frame outside, and the curtains dried very quickly. When we brought them in they smelled so good because they had been air-dried, and when we hung them back up the whole house smelled fresh and clean.
Happy memories from another era...
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
We had lots of lace curtains in our large, old home. Washing them was really easier than it sounds because we had a curtain stretcher on which to dry them. A curtain stretcher is a wood frame (with legs which prop it up), which has short "pins" (pointed end up) close together all around the edges. The frame could be adjusted to the size of the curtain. By setting it so there was some tension on the curtain, the curtains would dry without wrinkles and would not need pressing. (We didn't have steam irons back then).
My mom would wash our curtains and then we would hook the edges of each curtain over the pins on the stretcher frame. The pins were long enough so that we could put more than one curtain on the frame at a time. If it was a warm day we set the frame outside, and the curtains dried very quickly. When we brought them in they smelled so good because they had been air-dried, and when we hung them back up the whole house smelled fresh and clean.
Happy memories from another era...
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Friday, May 27, 2011
A Glorious Song
I heard the choir's voices raise
A glorious song of prayer and praise.
How my spirit lifted up!
Surely this was Heaven's "cup".
What is better than a choir
To touch the heart and joy inspire
When harmonies and blended sound
Softly echo and resound.
Heav'nly sounds waft to and fro
And gentle peace and joy bestow.
Surely, this is Heaven's touch...
Dimension which we need so much!
"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
A glorious song of prayer and praise.
How my spirit lifted up!
Surely this was Heaven's "cup".
What is better than a choir
To touch the heart and joy inspire
When harmonies and blended sound
Softly echo and resound.
Heav'nly sounds waft to and fro
And gentle peace and joy bestow.
Surely, this is Heaven's touch...
Dimension which we need so much!
"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, May 26, 2011
A Bright Future
Sin creates blotches which we can't erase
Except through our Lord and His saving grace.
Without Salvation the future is dim.
Heaven is bright, outer darkness is grim.
Some day we'll step through eternity's door
And have opportunity Heav'n to explore.
Tears and affliction will be left behind.
The joy of God's presence is what we will find.
What expectation we have in the Lord!
His sweet Salvation brings Heav'nly reward.
We have God's promise... the future is bright!
Heaven's reward our hope should excite!
"Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me. To him that overcometh will I grant to set with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne."
Revelation 3:20-21 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Except through our Lord and His saving grace.
Without Salvation the future is dim.
Heaven is bright, outer darkness is grim.
Some day we'll step through eternity's door
And have opportunity Heav'n to explore.
Tears and affliction will be left behind.
The joy of God's presence is what we will find.
What expectation we have in the Lord!
His sweet Salvation brings Heav'nly reward.
We have God's promise... the future is bright!
Heaven's reward our hope should excite!
"Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me. To him that overcometh will I grant to set with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne."
Revelation 3:20-21 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Words Of Wisdom
The tongue is a fire which cannot be quenched,
And with many words sin gets entrenched.
Without Godly wisdom the tongue runs astray
And spews out wrong words it never should say.
Wisdom would say to us, "Be slow to speak".
Words blurted out much havoc can wreak.
Wisdom will help us to carefully choose
When to be quiet or right words to use.
The tongue can bring healing or comfort or cheer
And be a rich blessing to all who are near.
So it must be "tamed" to be a blessed tool.
When filled with God's wisdom, much joy it will fuel.
"If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body."
James 3:2 KJV
"A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver."
Proverbs 25:11 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
And with many words sin gets entrenched.
Without Godly wisdom the tongue runs astray
And spews out wrong words it never should say.
Wisdom would say to us, "Be slow to speak".
Words blurted out much havoc can wreak.
Wisdom will help us to carefully choose
When to be quiet or right words to use.
The tongue can bring healing or comfort or cheer
And be a rich blessing to all who are near.
So it must be "tamed" to be a blessed tool.
When filled with God's wisdom, much joy it will fuel.
"If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body."
James 3:2 KJV
"A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver."
Proverbs 25:11 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Fragrant Oil
Humility, as fragrant oil,
Will soften up the hardest "soil".
Quietly it soothes and heals
And special loveliness reveals.
It's inner beauty suffers long
When hampered by pride's sin and wrong.
Humility will heave a sigh
But ne'er to pride will it draw nigh.
But then should pride begin to bow
Humility will softly plow
And loosen up the hardened soil
By pouring out it's healing oil.
"For thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy; I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones."
Isaiah 57:15 KJV
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Will soften up the hardest "soil".
Quietly it soothes and heals
And special loveliness reveals.
It's inner beauty suffers long
When hampered by pride's sin and wrong.
Humility will heave a sigh
But ne'er to pride will it draw nigh.
But then should pride begin to bow
Humility will softly plow
And loosen up the hardened soil
By pouring out it's healing oil.
"For thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy; I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones."
Isaiah 57:15 KJV
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Monday, May 23, 2011
Special Shoes
We cannot fill another's shoes
But if we really tried,
Probably our feet would hurt
And maybe, too, our pride.
We must recognize OUR shoes,
For only these will fit.
As we grow into these shoes
We'll find our walk has grit.
Much of God's design is lost
If we don't wear His shoes.
We could lose God's chosen path
In something we would choose.
Only we can fill our shoes
Which God has hand-designed.
If we'll wear them faithfully,
His "riches" we will find.
"Know ye that the Lord he is God; it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves..."
Psalm 100:3 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
But if we really tried,
Probably our feet would hurt
And maybe, too, our pride.
We must recognize OUR shoes,
For only these will fit.
As we grow into these shoes
We'll find our walk has grit.
Much of God's design is lost
If we don't wear His shoes.
We could lose God's chosen path
In something we would choose.
Only we can fill our shoes
Which God has hand-designed.
If we'll wear them faithfully,
His "riches" we will find.
"Know ye that the Lord he is God; it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves..."
Psalm 100:3 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sunday, May 22, 2011
Everything We Need
When we need strength to run our course
God Almighty is our Source.
When we need wisdom to succeed,
Our very footsteps He will lead.
Should we face a fearsome test,
In the midst He gives us "rest".
When we need a fresh ideal
He provides new hope and zeal.
We can draw on Heaven's store
For everything we need... and more.
In the Lord we are complete
And always have a blessed retreat.
"But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus."
Philippians 4:19 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
God Almighty is our Source.
When we need wisdom to succeed,
Our very footsteps He will lead.
Should we face a fearsome test,
In the midst He gives us "rest".
When we need a fresh ideal
He provides new hope and zeal.
We can draw on Heaven's store
For everything we need... and more.
In the Lord we are complete
And always have a blessed retreat.
"But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus."
Philippians 4:19 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Saturday, May 21, 2011
Inner Beauty
Inner beauty cumulates through time spent with the Lord.
As we love and serve Him, in our lives we have reward.
He will change us deep within and fill us with His light,
Transforming how we may appear... He makes us to shine bright.
Even through the wear and tear of years and time and age,
The beauty of the Savior's love will write a fresh new page.
Beauty, love and gentleness are gifts which He bestows.
His loveliness will multiply and blossom as a rose.
"For the Lord taketh pleasure in His people: He will beautify the humble with salvation."
Psalm 149:4 KJV
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
As we love and serve Him, in our lives we have reward.
He will change us deep within and fill us with His light,
Transforming how we may appear... He makes us to shine bright.
Even through the wear and tear of years and time and age,
The beauty of the Savior's love will write a fresh new page.
Beauty, love and gentleness are gifts which He bestows.
His loveliness will multiply and blossom as a rose.
"For the Lord taketh pleasure in His people: He will beautify the humble with salvation."
Psalm 149:4 KJV
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Friday, May 20, 2011
The Smile Of God
God isn't impressed with "the proper and prim",
But honors the simple who wholly love Him.
He isn't swayed by the famous and rich
Or talked into anything by a smooth "pitch".
He looks at hearts, uncluttered and pure,
And smiles on the humble, shy and demure.
For hidden in these are His riches and treasure...
Those He can use in significant measure.
We cannot strive to achieve a great name
Or place our attention on glitz, wealth and fame.
God will promote the child-like and true
And cause them to prosper in all that they do.
"Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven."
Matthew 18:4 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
But honors the simple who wholly love Him.
He isn't swayed by the famous and rich
Or talked into anything by a smooth "pitch".
He looks at hearts, uncluttered and pure,
And smiles on the humble, shy and demure.
For hidden in these are His riches and treasure...
Those He can use in significant measure.
We cannot strive to achieve a great name
Or place our attention on glitz, wealth and fame.
God will promote the child-like and true
And cause them to prosper in all that they do.
"Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven."
Matthew 18:4 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Thursday, May 19, 2011
He Is Our Strength
Our God is a well-spring of power and might...
Hope in the middle of darkness and night.
He does not falter or move all about.
In Him is light... of this have no doubt!
God is our anchor, to Whom we may cling...
When everything shifts, will stability bring.
He is the One in Whom we believe...
As we rest in Him His blessings receive.
"I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust."
Psalm 91:2 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Hope in the middle of darkness and night.
He does not falter or move all about.
In Him is light... of this have no doubt!
God is our anchor, to Whom we may cling...
When everything shifts, will stability bring.
He is the One in Whom we believe...
As we rest in Him His blessings receive.
"I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust."
Psalm 91:2 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Love Heals
Love is a healer and makes one feel strong.
It always is kind and covers a wrong.
It will see beauty... and beauty will sow.
It spreads it's good will near and far, to and fro.
Love wll "mend fences", and sponsor new life,
Bridging with care over tension and strife.
It looks not at "self" nor puffs itself up
But offers compassion and blessing's sweet cup.
Love overcomes... it brings warmth and cheer,
Sponsoring hope and erasing much fear.
Love stands the test of storm and "foul weather".
It is the balm which puts lives together.
"Love never fails..."
I Corinthians 13:8 Amplified Bible
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
It always is kind and covers a wrong.
It will see beauty... and beauty will sow.
It spreads it's good will near and far, to and fro.
Love wll "mend fences", and sponsor new life,
Bridging with care over tension and strife.
It looks not at "self" nor puffs itself up
But offers compassion and blessing's sweet cup.
Love overcomes... it brings warmth and cheer,
Sponsoring hope and erasing much fear.
Love stands the test of storm and "foul weather".
It is the balm which puts lives together.
"Love never fails..."
I Corinthians 13:8 Amplified Bible
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Children Are A Treasure
Some children in families will grow up "alone".
Their fears and desires are simply not known.
When both parents work, a child can get "lost".
When they're "too busy", the child pays the cost.
Children need nurture and time just to share
What their day was like with parents who care.
A child will be lonely when these times are missed
And cry out to others they should not enlist.
When they are nurtured they'll not drift away.
When home is fulfilling they'll not go astray.
If you spend time with them, they'll know you care.
Know and enjoy them... and wrap them in prayer.
"Lo, children are an heritage of the Lord: and the fruit of the womb is his reward."
Psalm 127:3 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Their fears and desires are simply not known.
When both parents work, a child can get "lost".
When they're "too busy", the child pays the cost.
Children need nurture and time just to share
What their day was like with parents who care.
A child will be lonely when these times are missed
And cry out to others they should not enlist.
When they are nurtured they'll not drift away.
When home is fulfilling they'll not go astray.
If you spend time with them, they'll know you care.
Know and enjoy them... and wrap them in prayer.
"Lo, children are an heritage of the Lord: and the fruit of the womb is his reward."
Psalm 127:3 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Monday, May 16, 2011
Unique In Him
God gives each person a special identity.
Each is unique... not just a nonentity.
Each has a gift and Godly potential,
And used for God's kingdom will be influential.
As we discover His creative plan
He will complete in us what He began,
Building us up and spurring us on
To rise up and carry Salvation's baton.
We may not know just how He will use us,
But learning His ways is a definite "plus".
Out of His Word we find explanation.
In Him we live with high expectation.
"Thy hands have made me and fashioned me: give me understanding, that I may learn thy commandments."
Psalm 119:173 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Each is unique... not just a nonentity.
Each has a gift and Godly potential,
And used for God's kingdom will be influential.
As we discover His creative plan
He will complete in us what He began,
Building us up and spurring us on
To rise up and carry Salvation's baton.
We may not know just how He will use us,
But learning His ways is a definite "plus".
Out of His Word we find explanation.
In Him we live with high expectation.
"Thy hands have made me and fashioned me: give me understanding, that I may learn thy commandments."
Psalm 119:173 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sunday, May 15, 2011
The Grace Of The LORD
He fills my life with grace ev'ry day,
Enabling me to push my fears away.
He bridges o'er gaps where I cannot reach
And helps me to be confident in each.
When weary He gives strength to carry on,
And laughter when my circumstance is wan.
His grace becomes the balance in my day,
Is rich, and quite enough in ev'ry way.
How many times I'm covered by His grace,
My weakness and shortcomings to erase.
His caring is so great... so full of cheer.
His grace is my best friend and always near.
"And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness."
II Corinthians 12:9 KJV
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Enabling me to push my fears away.
He bridges o'er gaps where I cannot reach
And helps me to be confident in each.
When weary He gives strength to carry on,
And laughter when my circumstance is wan.
His grace becomes the balance in my day,
Is rich, and quite enough in ev'ry way.
How many times I'm covered by His grace,
My weakness and shortcomings to erase.
His caring is so great... so full of cheer.
His grace is my best friend and always near.
"And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness."
II Corinthians 12:9 KJV
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Saturday, May 14, 2011
Making A Difference
One small act or one soft touch
To another matters much.
If we cannot move "a stone"
A "pebble" helps... for one alone.
Any deed we do in love
Becomes as manna from above.
"Mountains" are reduced in size
And joy makes sadness have demise.
Tiny acts are rich in measure
And to others are as treasure...
And o'er time accumulate
To make a difference which is great!
"Love endures long and is patient and kind..."
I Corinthians 13:4 (Amplified Bible)
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
To another matters much.
If we cannot move "a stone"
A "pebble" helps... for one alone.
Any deed we do in love
Becomes as manna from above.
"Mountains" are reduced in size
And joy makes sadness have demise.
Tiny acts are rich in measure
And to others are as treasure...
And o'er time accumulate
To make a difference which is great!
"Love endures long and is patient and kind..."
I Corinthians 13:4 (Amplified Bible)
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Friday, May 13, 2011
Blind Spots
Just when we think we know quite a lot,
We may be growing a little blind spot.
We will learn more by keeping close watch
So pride doesn't blind our sight with it's blotch.
Selfishness limits the depth of our sight...
We only see part of that which is right.
It creates shadows and "fog" in our vision
So we do not see with humble precision.
Those who procrastinate don't see at all
And don't sense the need for urgency's call.
Arrogance, laziness, ego and pride
Will cause UGLY blind spots where'er they reside.
If there are "patterns" which get in the way
Of seeing things clearly, take time out to pray.
We will see well if we remain humble
And will not form blind spots which cause us to stumble.
"Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength, and my redeemer."
Psalm 19:14 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
We may be growing a little blind spot.
We will learn more by keeping close watch
So pride doesn't blind our sight with it's blotch.
Selfishness limits the depth of our sight...
We only see part of that which is right.
It creates shadows and "fog" in our vision
So we do not see with humble precision.
Those who procrastinate don't see at all
And don't sense the need for urgency's call.
Arrogance, laziness, ego and pride
Will cause UGLY blind spots where'er they reside.
If there are "patterns" which get in the way
Of seeing things clearly, take time out to pray.
We will see well if we remain humble
And will not form blind spots which cause us to stumble.
"Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength, and my redeemer."
Psalm 19:14 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Thursday, May 12, 2011
Even As The Willow
Lord, even as the willow sways and bends with every breeze,
Let me e'er be pliable and all Your purpose please.
Let me always know Your voice and hasten to it's sound.
Let my sensitivity be quickened and profound.
As I sense Your "movement" and am caught up in Your will
I will have direction all Your purpose to fulfill.
Teach me, Lord, to rest and pause whene'er I should be still
And not to hurry on ahead before You give me skill.
Let me learn tranquillity with beauty, as the willow tree,
Growing by the waterbrooks with graceful fexibility.
Quietly I wait on You to hear the whisper of Your voice
And deep within my spirit I will worship and rejoice.
"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
Let me e'er be pliable and all Your purpose please.
Let me always know Your voice and hasten to it's sound.
Let my sensitivity be quickened and profound.
As I sense Your "movement" and am caught up in Your will
I will have direction all Your purpose to fulfill.
Teach me, Lord, to rest and pause whene'er I should be still
And not to hurry on ahead before You give me skill.
Let me learn tranquillity with beauty, as the willow tree,
Growing by the waterbrooks with graceful fexibility.
Quietly I wait on You to hear the whisper of Your voice
And deep within my spirit I will worship and rejoice.
"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
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
A Shining Mirror
The Word is a mirror in which we should gaze
To see if we have imperfection or "haze".
It will reveal a "blemish" or stain
And give us high standards to which to attain.
When our reflection reveals the Word
Then by example will others be spurred.
Becoming as mirrors, then we reflect light
To help others see if they might have "blight".
The Word gives us depth and shapes our reflection.
It's wisdom will change our very complexion.
Some mirrors are "foggy", and some clear and bright.
A mirror of the Word is an image of Light.
"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
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
To see if we have imperfection or "haze".
It will reveal a "blemish" or stain
And give us high standards to which to attain.
When our reflection reveals the Word
Then by example will others be spurred.
Becoming as mirrors, then we reflect light
To help others see if they might have "blight".
The Word gives us depth and shapes our reflection.
It's wisdom will change our very complexion.
Some mirrors are "foggy", and some clear and bright.
A mirror of the Word is an image of Light.
"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
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
Retreat
Retreat with God to the "quiet place".
Learn of peace and of His grace.
Escape the din of daily duty.
Find dimensions of His beauty.
Let His Spirit flow through you
To wash, refresh and make you new.
He will soothe life's wear and tear
If you will wait and linger there..
Priceless... His tranquillity,
From tension's wares to set us free.
His presence brings a peace replete
When with Him we seek retreat.
"Great peace have they which love thy law: and nothing shall offend them."
Psalm 119:165 KJV
"Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee."
Isaiah 26:3 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Learn of peace and of His grace.
Escape the din of daily duty.
Find dimensions of His beauty.
Let His Spirit flow through you
To wash, refresh and make you new.
He will soothe life's wear and tear
If you will wait and linger there..
Priceless... His tranquillity,
From tension's wares to set us free.
His presence brings a peace replete
When with Him we seek retreat.
"Great peace have they which love thy law: and nothing shall offend them."
Psalm 119:165 KJV
"Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee."
Isaiah 26:3 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Monday, May 09, 2011
Set Free
The Spirit of God will set people free
That they may become who they should be.
Worldly trappings and goals tend to bind
And hold folks back from "wealth" they should find.
When we're set free to fly as we should
Soon we will find that maybe we could
Reach up much higher than we thought before.
God's Spirit will guide us and cause us to soar.
When we allow the Spirit of God
To free us from sin and paths we have trod,
Then we become who we're meant to be
And form new ideals... because we're set free.
"Now the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty."
II Corinthians 3:17 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
That they may become who they should be.
Worldly trappings and goals tend to bind
And hold folks back from "wealth" they should find.
When we're set free to fly as we should
Soon we will find that maybe we could
Reach up much higher than we thought before.
God's Spirit will guide us and cause us to soar.
When we allow the Spirit of God
To free us from sin and paths we have trod,
Then we become who we're meant to be
And form new ideals... because we're set free.
"Now the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty."
II Corinthians 3:17 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sunday, May 08, 2011
Happy Mother's Day
The Gift Of Motherhood
Once a mother, always a mother...
A privileged experience unlike any other.
No matter the age, whether daughter or son,
Children are special, for God made each one.
Every day is filled with surprise
As children explore and learn to be wise.
Leading and guiding them brings rich reward
As they grow and blossom in things of the Lord.
Then when the children are raised up and grown,
Moms can reflect on the joys they have known
And maybe look forward to having more fun
With a little granddaughter or precious grandson.
"Her children arise up, and call her blessed..."
Proverbs 31:28 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Once a mother, always a mother...
A privileged experience unlike any other.
No matter the age, whether daughter or son,
Children are special, for God made each one.
Every day is filled with surprise
As children explore and learn to be wise.
Leading and guiding them brings rich reward
As they grow and blossom in things of the Lord.
Then when the children are raised up and grown,
Moms can reflect on the joys they have known
And maybe look forward to having more fun
With a little granddaughter or precious grandson.
"Her children arise up, and call her blessed..."
Proverbs 31:28 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Saturday, May 07, 2011
A Healed Heart
The cry of a heart, piercing the night,
Lonely and frightened and needing much light,
Is heard by the Father and studied with care,
His love and compassion to pour out and share.
In Him is light... to stave off all night,
Offering strength and hope which is bright.
Darkness and heaviness must flee away
As He hovers near, all fears to allay.
He holds the heart, it's suffering to heal,
Bringing good cheer and love which is real.
His warmth and caring will make the heart smile,
Able to laugh and face the next mile.
"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
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Lonely and frightened and needing much light,
Is heard by the Father and studied with care,
His love and compassion to pour out and share.
In Him is light... to stave off all night,
Offering strength and hope which is bright.
Darkness and heaviness must flee away
As He hovers near, all fears to allay.
He holds the heart, it's suffering to heal,
Bringing good cheer and love which is real.
His warmth and caring will make the heart smile,
Able to laugh and face the next mile.
"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
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Friday, May 06, 2011
A Nation In Prayer
A prayerful nation we must be,
Bowed in deep humility,
Interceding constantly
That we might prosper and stay free.
Holy God of might and power,
How we need You in this hour.
We have sinned and come up short.
Our leaders Godly tenets thwart.
We beseech You, hear our prayer.
Save us from this serious error.
God, have mercy on our land
That through this darkness we might stand.
"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
Bowed in deep humility,
Interceding constantly
That we might prosper and stay free.
Holy God of might and power,
How we need You in this hour.
We have sinned and come up short.
Our leaders Godly tenets thwart.
We beseech You, hear our prayer.
Save us from this serious error.
God, have mercy on our land
That through this darkness we might stand.
"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
Thursday, May 05, 2011
Change
When sometimes change is truly needed,
Former "plans" must be conceded.
When circumstance makes new demand
Our understanding must expand.
Change may not be pleasurable,
But benefits are immeasurable.
If God says that we need change,
It's well our plans to re-arrange.
Change we make without His lead
Can make us fail or not succeed.
Change He sponsors will be sound.
In Him good balance will be found.
"If I take the wings of the morning, and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea; even there shall thy hand lead me, and thy right hand shall hold me."
Psalm 139:9-10 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Former "plans" must be conceded.
When circumstance makes new demand
Our understanding must expand.
Change may not be pleasurable,
But benefits are immeasurable.
If God says that we need change,
It's well our plans to re-arrange.
Change we make without His lead
Can make us fail or not succeed.
Change He sponsors will be sound.
In Him good balance will be found.
"If I take the wings of the morning, and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea; even there shall thy hand lead me, and thy right hand shall hold me."
Psalm 139:9-10 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Wednesday, May 04, 2011
Healing Oil
A positive word is as oil on hinges
To stop noisy squeaks and everyday "twinges".
Being as oil can lubricate "squabbles"
And keep situations from having "the wobbles".
Oil makes smooth the working of "gears",
Bringing solutions for upsets and tears.
The gears of relationship often have need
For oil of healing to help them succeed.
If all our words are softened with oil,
"Wear and destruction" we often can foil.
Free-flowing oil will bring peace and calm.
Our positive words are truly sweet balm.
"A man hath joy by the answer of his mouth: and a word spoken in due season,, how good is it!"
Proverbs 15:23 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
To stop noisy squeaks and everyday "twinges".
Being as oil can lubricate "squabbles"
And keep situations from having "the wobbles".
Oil makes smooth the working of "gears",
Bringing solutions for upsets and tears.
The gears of relationship often have need
For oil of healing to help them succeed.
If all our words are softened with oil,
"Wear and destruction" we often can foil.
Free-flowing oil will bring peace and calm.
Our positive words are truly sweet balm.
"A man hath joy by the answer of his mouth: and a word spoken in due season,, how good is it!"
Proverbs 15:23 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Tuesday, May 03, 2011
Freedom's Cause
Men of bravery, men of gold,
Men of youth, men of old,
We salute you once again
For guarding us where'er you've been.
Some, with your own lives, have paid.
Your memory will never fade.
You stood strong through battles tough.
Our tribute ne'er will be enough.
So today we humbly pause
Because you fought for freedom's cause.
Unselfishly you gave your all
When you answered country's call.
Thank you, one and all who serve.
Highest honors you deserve!
Whene'er we see you we are proud.
In prayer for you our hearts are bowed.
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Men of youth, men of old,
We salute you once again
For guarding us where'er you've been.
Some, with your own lives, have paid.
Your memory will never fade.
You stood strong through battles tough.
Our tribute ne'er will be enough.
So today we humbly pause
Because you fought for freedom's cause.
Unselfishly you gave your all
When you answered country's call.
Thank you, one and all who serve.
Highest honors you deserve!
Whene'er we see you we are proud.
In prayer for you our hearts are bowed.
© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Monday, May 02, 2011
The Fountain Of Forgiveness
Forgiveness is a flowing fountain,
Healing waters for each "mountain".
Woundedness will find release
And animosity will cease.
Pride and grudges love will foil.
Forgiveness is the needed oil
Which sponsors health and love and joy
And cancels barriers which destroy.
Forgiving hearts are filled with balm
And have a restful, inner calm.
Forgiveness never keeps a "count"
But always is a healing fount.
"And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted,, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you."
Ephesians 4:32 KJV
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Healing waters for each "mountain".
Woundedness will find release
And animosity will cease.
Pride and grudges love will foil.
Forgiveness is the needed oil
Which sponsors health and love and joy
And cancels barriers which destroy.
Forgiving hearts are filled with balm
And have a restful, inner calm.
Forgiveness never keeps a "count"
But always is a healing fount.
"And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted,, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you."
Ephesians 4:32 KJV
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sunday, May 01, 2011
Happiness
People sometimes have too much,
And "much" may even be a crutch
To fill a "void" or empty place
Which needs some happiness or grace.
Freedom from the weight of "things"
Releases joy... good cheer it brings.
Then we start to realize
That happiness within us lies.
Stuff we own will have a price
But yet for gladness won't suffice.
When we find a happy niche,
Then by joy we are made rich.
"Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: for where your treasure is, there will your heart be also."
Matthew 6:19-21 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
And "much" may even be a crutch
To fill a "void" or empty place
Which needs some happiness or grace.
Freedom from the weight of "things"
Releases joy... good cheer it brings.
Then we start to realize
That happiness within us lies.
Stuff we own will have a price
But yet for gladness won't suffice.
When we find a happy niche,
Then by joy we are made rich.
"Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: for where your treasure is, there will your heart be also."
Matthew 6:19-21 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
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