A Path For The New Year

Beginning in this fresh new year
I want to have a listening ear,
That all the Lord speaks I'll not miss.
I pray for diligence in this.

He is faithful to provide
And all my ways to lead and guide.
The path He sets is safe for me.
He enables me to "see"...

So I'll not stumble nor will fall
In my endeavors, great or small.
When I choose to hear His voice
I know He'll cause me to rejoice.

"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

© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Abundant Grace

My hope is in the Lord,
For earthly things are frail.
I know He'll keep His eye on me.
In Him I will not fail.

His grace is so abundant
And will help me carry through.
When I trust and lean on Him
He covers all I do.

He guides me and He spurs me on
And strengthens me to stand.
I can rest within His grace.
My life is in His hand.

"And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness."
II Corinthians 12:9 KJV

© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf

These Are They

Lives that count are not the rich
But Godly folks with quiet niche...
Those who walk their path each day,
Do not complain, but always pray...

Trusting God in all they do,
Knowing He will bring them through.
All the hurdles which they face
Are more than covered by His grace.

These are they whose faith has grown,
Leaving "wealth" to those they've known.
They in heaven will wear a crown,
For there these folks will find renown.

"Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing."
II Timothy 4:8 KJV

© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Sowing Happiness

A cheery word can change a day
For one who's feeling quite blase'.
Spread some joy where'er you go,
For joy is a good seed to sow.

Be contagious with your cheer,
For laughter is so good to hear.
When you choose to be "upbeat",
For others you become a treat.

Others soon will smile back,
And laughter then will not have lack.
By your cheer you've filled a need.
You've sown happiness indeed!

"For the joy of the Lord is your strength."
Nehemiah 8:10 KJV

© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Reflecting On God's Goodness

Thankfulness changes our daily perspective
When on God's goodness we are reflective.
If we are "running" and going too fast,
The blessings of God we may run right past.

Our God is great and worthy of praise.
We should pause often and gratitude raise.
He is our fortress and mighty in power...
Our peace and our strength in this very hour.

Moments we spend in praising His name
Will change us inside... we won't be the same.
We will have joy as we're in His presence...
As we acknowledge and show Him our reverence.

"Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised..."
Psalm 48:1 KJV

© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Song Of Joy

Sing a song of love and joy,
Blessed gifts men should employ.
How we need to spread good cheer
To every person... far and near.

Good will flows forth from the heart
And many blessings will impart.
Gladness offsets many frowns
And love produces lovely "crowns".

Let joy sing from deep within.
Let light-heartedness begin.
Joy brings comfort, hope and calm...
A welcome, wondrous, healing balm.

"Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice."
Philippians 4:4 KJV

"The joy of the Lord is your strength."
Nehemiah 8:10 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Glorious Event

Silent night, hallowed night,
Eastern star, shining bright,
A newborn babe, love profound,
Angels singing, Heav'nly sound...

Joyful tidings, Heav'n's good news,
Peace on earth, good will to muse,
Shepherds pond'ring distant star,
Worshipping in fields afar...

Quietly a great event,
Love came down... Heaven-sent,
The greatest gift we'll ever know,
Cradled in a manger low.

"For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The prince of Peace."
Isaiah 9:6 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Room In The Inn

Baby Jesus, do not fear...
I will make for You some space.
Little child without a bed,
In my heart I'll make a place.

I invite and welcome You
Deep within my heart to stay.
I want to live my life for You
And want to bless You every day.

As You reside within my heart,
Joy and worship I will bring.
You are worthy of all praise,
You'll daily cause my heart to sing.

Nothing I can offer You
For me could greater joy impart
Than to give You residence
In the inn of my own heart.

"If anyone loves Me, he will keep My word; and My Father will love him, and We will come to him and make Our home with him."
John 14:23 NKJ

© 2004 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Tiny Spark... A Mighty Flame

A baby's birth... a tiny spark... would over time become a flame.
God's great love for all mankind the light of Heaven's hope became.
Jesus had no earthly comfort but was birthed in lowly place.
Man received a miracle of lovingkindness and of grace.

Let the flame of Jesus' love be fanned within your heart anew.
Let a holy fire burst forth and brightly burn in all you do.
Let it's light and warmth become contagious by it's healing balm,
Reaching out with new-lit flames, inspiring peace and joy and calm.

May this fire's sparks ignite, unquenchable and with great power.
Let salvation's fires burn with great new fervor in this hour.
Let our hearts be tuned afresh to know the warmth of Jesus' flame,
Remembering salvation's plan - the glorious reason why He came.

"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved."
John 3:16-17 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Jesus Is Born

A tiny babe's cry pierced out through the night,
Forever to change the darkness to light.
It was God's loving plan for all of mankind.
This event which took place by God was hand-signed.

The life of this babe would be flawless and pure
And would bring answer men's sorrows to cure.
He would bring life and wash away sin,
That men everywhere might eternal life win.

That tiny cry pierces darkness today.
Jesus was come... your sin-debt to pay.
For those who receive Him and live in His light
He'll cut through your darkness and make your life bright.

"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through him might be saved."
John 3:16-17 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Sounds Of Christmas

Carolers singing, a joyful sound bringing,
Trumpets and choirs and pretty bells ringing...
These are the sounds of bright Christmas cheer,
Announcing good news for all men to hear!

"Peace be on earth and good will toward men."
Let this be broadcast again and again!
Jesus has come... He is the Light,
Hope for mankind... the world to ignite.

Let celebration well up in your heart
And cause daily worries to flee and depart.
Jesus is come, our joy to renew.
Let His song ring forth... in me and in you!

"And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord."
Luke 2:10-11 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Childhood Christmas

The light in the eyes of a sweet little child,
Worshipping Jesus, the sweet baby mild,
Is precious and tender and wondrous to see.
His love is so pure and his spirit so free.

Lord, let this "imprint" on him ne'er be lost.
May Your love and grace in his heart be embossed.
May the wonder and awe which he has in his heart
Always remain there... Your joy to impart.

For childhood will fade and a young man emerge.
May angels keep watch and around him converge
To guard and protect this wonder and awe.
Let him never forget the "manger" he saw.

"For He will give His angels (especial) charge over you to accompany and defend and preserve you in all your ways (of obedience and service)."
Psalm 91:11 Amplified Bible

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Christmas Tree

If I could be a Christmas tree,
The decoration you might see
Would be quite different from the norm,
Colorful and brightly warm.

My branches would be filled with light,
And I would shine both day and night
To tell of Jesus' wondrous birth
And speak His love throughout the earth.

For He gives ornaments of gold...
Love and peace which don't grow old,
Joy and hope which draw folks near
And offer Heav'n's eternal cheer.

With Jesus' beauty I could be
A vital, loving Christmas tree,
With lights and garlands which decree
The love of God for all to see.

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Revisit The Manger

I will revisit the manger again
To retrace my steps and where I have been,
To recall God's blessings and open my heart,
Ready for God new life to impart.

Let all my worship be fragrant as myrrh,
And let His great love anew in me stir.
As I remember and take time to pause,
Again I am filled with joy and applause.

Salvation was birthed in the manger that night...
Promise of heaven, mankind to excite.
We can take joy, for God had a plan
To bring full redemption and blessing to man.

"And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord."
Luke 2:10-11 KJV

© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Song Of Christmas

Hum a lovely Christmas song.
In this season, sing along!
Christmas carols tell a story...
Reminding us to give God glory!

What a joyous time to sing
Our praises to our Lord and King!
Let your voice with worship swell...
The birth of Jesus Christ to tell.

Let choirs sing and bells ring out,
For joy is what this is about!
Lift up worship... celebrate!
Jesus' birth commemorate!

"For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The prince of Peace."
Isaiah 9:6 KJV

© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Let The Children Sing

At Christmas let the children sing.
Let their little voices ring!
Let their hearts well up with joy,
Every girl and every boy.

As they sing of Jesus' birth
And are filled with glee and mirth,
Listen to their gentle sound.
Love and sweetness there abound.

Children have a special way
In how they sing and what they say.
They will bring a simple view
Which oft refreshes me and you.

When the little childtren sing,
Special blessings they will bring.
Listen to their voices sweet
As the Savior's birth they greet.

"But Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven."
Matthew 19:14 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Keep Christmas Simple

Christmas is all about God's precious Son...
God's love poured out to every one.
Let celebration rise up in your soul.
With adoration our great God extol.

Church bells and choirs will ring out His praise.
Folks 'round the world bright worship will raise.
Don't get bogged down in presents and trees,
Wrapping, decor and activities.

Keep Christmas simple and take time to pause
And deep in the heart to bring your applause.
Let it's bright message again make you new,
And let God's great love be re-birthed in you.

"I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly."
John 10:10 KJV

© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Mirrors Of Christmas

If this Christmas season were seen in a mirror,
What would be found there in it's clear reflection?
Would there be singing, or sharing and love...
Would anything there point in Jesus' direction?

Would there be scenes of sweet celebration,
Honoring Jesus... remembering His birth?
Who there would practice "good will to all men"
And live in a way to bring peace on the earth?

Christmas has meaning anew every year
As His love is birthed afresh in each heart.
And when this happens, new joy will come forth...
His love and His peace and warmth to impart.

The scenes in the mirror will be lovely indeed,
Recording the love of the Christmas season,
For all that has meaning and really has worth
Is found in our Lord... HE is the reason!

Without Jesus Christ the mirrors will be empty
And will not record a scene or reflection.
The scenes will be lost, for they don't have true meaning,
And will not be worthy of sweet recollection.

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Good Tidings Of Great Joy

Bethlehem was quiet on the night when Jesus came.
Little did man know... that He would set the world aflame.
He would bring salvation to redeem man from all sin,
And yet there was not room for him in the local inn.

Today He lives and dwells within the hearts and lives of men.
May we all remember Jesus' coming once again.
Let our celebration be to honor He Who came.
And let His love within us be an ever-burning flame.

"For the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord."
Luke 2:10-11 KJV

© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Tell The Little Children

Tell the little children of that night so long ago
When Christ was born in Bethlehem in a manger low.
Share with them that Christmas is a time to celebrate
The love of God for each of them... for them to contemplate.

"Christmas" has no purpose, apart from Jesus' birth.
It takes on worldly emptiness and doesn't have much worth.
Jesus is the center, and He gives us glorious reason
To share His love with others in this bright and joyous season.

"But Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven."
Matthew 19:14 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Joyous Season

Christmas is a joyous season.
To praise the Lord we have good reason.
Worship Him, and offer praise!
With grateful heart an anthem raise!

For worship, like a symphony,
Is how our lives are meant to be!
Bring sweet melody and song.
Lift your voice and sing along!

Let glorious harmony and sound
Within your heart rise up, abound!
Let exaltation be on high,
His wondrous name to glorify!

"I will extol thee, my God, O king; and I will bless thy name for ever and ever. Every day will I bless thee; and I will praise thy name for ever and ever."
Psalm 145:1-2 KJV

© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Little Girl's Christmas Tree

In years past my mother, who was already in her eighties, babysat a little three-year-old girl.

As Christmas drew near I thought it would be fun to bring this child her own little Christmas tree to decorate. I gathered up a bunch of unbreakable ornaments I had, then went in search of a tree. I found a little three-foot-tall tree at a lot near my house.

I didn't know how well a three-year-old could decorate a tree, but thought she could at least try. And she totally surprised us! She carefully placed the ornaments, one-by-one, walking around the tree with each one to make sure there were no bare places on the tree. She did a remarkable job for her age. It looked really pretty.

This whole scene was priceless to watch. When she was through she sat down (on a large, wrapped package) to admire her work. Her face glowed and her eyes were filled with delight. As she was sitting there, someone came and knocked at the front door. She jumped up to go see who was there, tripped on a throw rug, and went flying right into the middle of her tree, knocking the tree over. The ornaments went flying in every direction. She was devastated! She cried and she wailed. It was like her whole magical world had fallen apart.

It took a little time to comfort her, but then I encouraged her to pick the tree up and put all the ornaments on again. (It's a good thing they were unbreakable). So she started over and once again decorated her little tree. After I left I'm sure she adjusted and re-adjusted the placement of the ornaments. She was very precise about the way it looked. It was her very own little tree!!!

© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Christmas Is Coming!

Christmas is coming! Christmas is coming!
It's time to remember our great Savior's birth...
A time of rejoicing, a time to bring praise
And celebrate Jesus throughout all the earth!

Let choirs make song and many bells ring!
Let music rise up in jubilant sound!
Let our Savior's birth be greeted with joy!
Let banners be drawn and worship abound!

Let the Good News be spread far and wide.
Magnify Jesus throughout all the earth!
Let all that we do in this wonderful season
Bring glory and honor and tell of His worth!

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Prayer Breaks Through

In years past I was part of a bible study group that met once a week for worship, bible study and prayer. The home where we met was on a corner in a lovely neighborhood.

The Lord spoke to my heart that I should walk around the four blocks adjoining that corner and pray and that this would bring change in our bible study time. A few days before our study I walked and prayed, as did a few others in the weeks to follow. As I walked, God showed me the needs in some of the homes there. One in particular I remember... He said there was a lot of fighting going on there.

As this process went on for a few weeks we began to see a beakthrough in the meeting times. The power of God during our prayer times was profound, and healings and breakthroughs began to take place in the women's lives.

The time spent in "prayer walks" was like the tilling of ground... needed preparation for planting and harvest. We saw results in our study group, but surely many people in the neighborhood were also blessed as the atmosphere changed in that four-block area.

If we want to see change, we must "till the ground' with prayer first... and God will hear these prayers.

"Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you."
I Thessalonians 5:16-18 KJV

© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Listen And Remember

Many times the Lord will "speak"
But then our memories are weak.
If we don't keep careful focus
The enemy plays "hocus-pocus".

If our minds are just too full,
Or busyness exerts it's "pull",
He will rob that precious seed
Which God has shared and which we need.

Do not let His words be lost,
For this is much too high a cost.
God will be our faithful guide.
Draw near to Him... in Him abide.

"Now the parable is this: the seed is the word of God. Those by the way side are they that hear; then cometh the devil, and taketh away the word out of their hearts, lest they should believe and be saved. They on the rock are they, which when they hear, receive the word with joy; and these have no root, which for a while believe, and in time of temptation fall away. And that which fell among thorns are they, which, when they have heard, go forth, and are choked with cares and riches and pleasures of this life, and bring no fruit to perfection. But that on the good ground are they, which in an honest and good heart, having heard the word, keep it, and bring forth fruit with patience."
Luke 8:11-15 KJV

© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Shining Bright

If you know Jesus, you have light.
His indwelling makes you bright.
He will cause your light to shine
And all your purpose will define.

You can maybe light a spark
In places where it's dim or dark,
Bringing joy or love or peace,
Causing darkness to decrease.

You can warm a heart that's cold
Or bring some cheer to one who's old.
Be a lighthouse, shining bright,
For many need a little light.

"Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven."
Matthew 5:14-16 KJV

© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Looking Up In Times Of Change

Sometimes life will take a "turn",
And these are times in which we learn.
If you've gone through "wear and tear",
Move on! You should not linger there.

Ask the Lord for new perspective.
He will give you good directive.
Don't let changes bog you down.
Determine that you will not frown.

Look up, and let God spur you on.
Look forward to a bright new dawn.
For He transforms our "sad" to "glad".
His strength and joy to you He'll add.

"Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths."
Proverbs 3:5-6 KJV

© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Every Day Is Good

Every day there's something good
To praise the Lord and shout about!
Lift up worship, songs and praise
And drive out every shred of doubt!

Think about God's lovingkindness,
His forgiveness and His grace.
His compassion and His love
Will bring a smile upon your face.

All good gifts are from His hand.
Praise His name and shout for joy!
Don't let problems get you down.
Let His goodness be your buoy!

"Blessed be the Lord, who daily loadeth us with benefits, even the God of our salvation."
Psalm 68:19 KJV

"The Lord is my strength and my shield, my heart trusted in him, and I am helped: therefore my heart greatly rejoiceth; and with my song will I praise him."
Psalm 28:7 KJV

© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Real Christmas

Christmas is a holy time
To celebrate our Savior's birth...
A time to worship and remember
God's own gift of greatest worth.

But man would try to change it all,
Diminishing the Christmas season,
Leaving us a "holiday"
Without its God-intended reason.

Then what is left to celebrate...
The endless gifts? Or what we ate?
The Christmas trees we decorate?
Or too much cost which we create?

Let us pause and contemplate
The blessing of God's greatest gift.
Let us worship from our hearts...
Much praise and adoration lift!

"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life."
John 3:16 KJV

© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Prayer Across The Miles

Prayer knows no boundaries.
It travels out across the distance,
Reaching near or reaching far
And offering much-blessed assistance.

Prayer does what we can't do
And trusts in God to intervene.
He will cover all details
And even some which are not seen.

No matter where the need may be,
We can intercede and pray.
Our prayers will bring the needed help,
E'en though the need be far away.

"The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much."
James 5:16 KJV

© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Best Christmas

The Christmas "frenzy" in our land
Has sadly gotten out of hand.
People scurry to and fro...
From store to store to store they go.

Often they will spend too much,
Using credit cards and such,
Creating bills and needless stress
When they could simply do with less.

The greatest gift which we could share
Is to love and show we care.
Find a lonely soul or two
And something special for them do.

God so loved us that He gave
His only Son, lost souls to save.
His example was to give.
This then is how we should live.

"Remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive."
Acts 20:35 KJV

© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Heavenly Promise

The love of God can change a heart
And give a life a fresh new start,
Loosing bondage from the past
And bringing freedom which will last.

Sweet salvation is God's gift.
Oh, what joy when burdens lift!
Former sins are washed away.
Peace within the heart will stay.

Nothing else compares to this...
A special touch of heaven's bliss.
Salvation is God's guarantee...
His promise for eternity.

"My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: and I give unto them eternal life: and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand."
John 10:27-28 KJV

© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Words With Grace

Careless words should have no place,
For they do not speak love or grace.
Life is hard enough for most.
With foolish words we should not boast.

If we could harness "good word" power
And implement it in this hour,
Love and healing could be spread
And negatives be left unsaid.

Thoughtful speech will pave the way
So conversation does not stray.
We should screen the words we use
And ill-natured words refuse.

"Let no foul or polluting language, nor evil word, nor unwholesome or worthless talk (ever) come out of your mouth; but only such (speech) as is good and beneficial to the spiritual progress of others, as is fitting to the need and the occasion, that it may be a blessing and give grace (God's favor) to those who hear it."
Ephesians 4:29 Amplified Bible

© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Contentment

Contentment and well-being each are signs of peace within...
Having deep tranquillity in spite of worldly din,
Knowing what has heavenly worth,
Being very down-to-earth.
In prosperity or need, contentment still will win.

Circumstance may change or turn and peace within unsettle,
Or other folks around us sometimes irritate or "nettle".
Contentment rests within the heart,
A steadiness it will impart.
For when our trust is in the Lord He gives us quiet "mettle".

Over time we realize that things we have could scatter.
Contentment in the Lord is a more important matter.
Let peace rule within the heart.
Let the Lord His joy impart.
Let contentment overcome all worldly "noise and clatter".

"For I have learned in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content."
Philippians 4:11 KJV

"And let the peace of God rule in your hearts..."
Colossians 3:15 KJV

© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Call To Prayer

Let us seek the Lord anew.
Let us pay Him reverence due.
Let us meek and solemn be.
Let us pray on bended knee.

For all of us have come up short
As to sin we've given court.
We have traveled far astray.
Let us heed God's voice today.

Let those folks who've turned away
Make return to Him today.
Let His urgent call be heard.
Let all hearts by Him be stirred.

"Therefore also now, saith the Lord, turn ye even to me with all your heart, and with fasting, and with weeping, and with mourning: and rend your heart, and not your garments, and turn unto the Lord your God: for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness..."
Joel 2:12-13 KJV

© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Greater Treasure

People often do not know just how much "stuff" they really need,
So they collect whate'er they can and it becomes as greed.
Some become as hoarders, so they buy and buy and buy.
But "stuff" will never make them rich, nor will it satisfy.

Belongings are a shallow joy... of momentary pleasure,
But knowledge of the Word of God will be a greater treasure.
People need a balance and to realize what they most need.
Wisdom is the best choice... which will make them rich indeed.

Too much "stuff" gets in the way and takes up time when we could pray.
It's better to spend time with God and simply give the "stuff" away.
Wisdom can't be bought and sold but it will help us to succeed.
Wisdom is a symbol that we're very rich indeed.

"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

© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Raised Up In Him

Beware of getting too high up.
(The higher we are, the further we fall.)
But if the Lord should raise us up,
Then in Him we will stand tall.

Our temptation is to rush
Or fnd a shortcut to the top.
But if the shortcut is not right
It will be a failing prop.

By God's hand we reach high places.
Steps we take are learned down low.
He will raise us up on high.
In Him does our wisdom grow.

"Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time."
I Peter 5:6 KJV

© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Prayers Of A Friend

How sweet the prayers of a friend...
The peace and comfort which they send...
And knowing there are those who care
And take the time to say a prayer.

Whispered words of faith and hope
Become as strength to help me cope.
I know I do not stand alone.
I'm grateful for the love that's shown.

Thank you, All, for "covering" me.
May you be blessed abundantly.
The gentle prayer of a friend
My need for healing will transcend.

© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Too Quickly Gone

Thanksgiving Day has come and gone,
But I'm not ready to move on.
I simply want to linger here,
Not let Thanksgiving disappear.

Too quickly is it pushed aside
In favor of the "holiday" tide.
It's truly sad that our great God
Sometimes barely gets a "nod".

I don't want to see it go.
I want more time my thanks to show,
To worship Him Who helps us stand.
All we have is from His hand!

So I'll complete my worship "season"
And will not rush... for very good reason.
I'll savor times of worship sweet.
Thanksgiving then will be complete.

"I will praise the name of God with a song, and will magnify him with thanksgiving."
Psalm 69:30 KJV

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Remembering His Benefits

Remember God's great benefits
He brings to you each day.
Recount His many mercies
He has shared along the way.

Think about His faithfulness
Whene'er you feel alone.
Muse about His saving grace
And goodness He has shown.

Bless Him with whole-hearted praise.
And with joy bright anthems raise.
Worship Him... bring honor due
For blessings He has given you.

"O come, let us sing unto the Lord: let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation. Let us come before his presence with thanksgiving, and make a joyful noise unto him with psalms."
Psalm 95:1-2 KJV

© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Thanksgiving Time

Thanksgiving is a wondrous time
Of praise and celebration...
A season when we bow our hearts
In joyful adoration...

For blessings poured into our lives,
More than we can number...
Even for the air we breathe,
For life and health and slumber.

All we have is from God's hand
Poured out in bounteous measure.
By His love and graciousness
Our lives are filled with treasure.

"By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name."
Hebrews 13:15 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

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

A Song Of Thanksgiving

For abundance and for plenty
Let Thanksgiving songs be raised.
In expression from the heart
Let our God be warmly praised.

All we have is from His hand.
Let our worship freely flow.
Acknowledging His rich supply,
Let robust celebration grow.

He has poured out wondrous blessing.
Let us glorify His name
For His love and faithfulness,
Let us bring Him all acclaim!

"O come, let us sing unto the Lord: let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation. 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 95:1-3 KJV

© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Winds Of Change

Changing "seasons" make us think
As time slips by and makes us blink.
If we're sensitive we will know,
And our perception then must grow.

Alertness to the winds of change
May stir us up to rearrange
Priorities in how we live
And how much time to prayer we give.

Keeping watch and keeping pace
Are wisdom which we should embrace.
Don't stay back, but move ahead.
On "changing seasons" be well-read.

"See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is."
Ephesians 5:15-17 KJV

© 2012 Arlene schwartzkopf

A Treasure

Godly wisdom is a treasure
To be sought in growing measure.
How much better life can be
When through wisdom's eye we see.

Wisdom is a faithful guide
And careful balance will provide.
We can lean on wisdom's arm,
For it will shield us from much harm.

Wisdom steers us through life's maze
And often simplifies our days.
What a blessing to be earned,
And it's merits to have learned!

"If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him."
James 1:5 KJV

"But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy."
James 3:17 KJV

© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf

God Watching Over Us

At one point in my life I had no money coming in. I was low on oil for my furnace and didn't know how I was going to keep warm. My mom gave me fifty dollars to put a little oil in the tank so I wouldn't run out, but winter was coming and I knew that fifty dollars worth of oil wouldn't last long.

While the oil company was there putting the oil in the tank, a neighbor walked over to me and asked, "How much oil are you getting?"

I answered him, "However much fifty dollars will get for me."

He walked over to the oil man and was talking with him, then went into his house.

When I went to pay the oil man my fifty dollars, he said that the neighbor had handed him one hundred dollars for more oil.

I had been really down that day, but God was right there to lift me up. We never know how He will provide for us or who He will use, but His hand is not shortened to help us!

"I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the Lord, which made heaven and earth."
Psalm 121:1-2 KJV

© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Blessed Unity

Unity will bear good fruits.
Divisiveness has ugly roots.
Unity works "hand-in-hand".
Divisiveness just makes demand.

Unity will move ahead.
Divisiveness will fight instead.
Unity will get much done.
Divisiveness can show you none.

Blessed unity of thought
Shows love and patience as it ought
And seeks a goal of joy and peace,
Causing differences to cease.

"Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!"
Psalm 133:1 KJV

"I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called, with all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love; endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace."
Ephesians 4:1-3 KJV

© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Stable And Fixed

Should storm winds blow, should waters rise,
Are we "anchored?" Are we wise?
Should changing times our lives define,
Or circumstance around us twine?

Know that Jesus is well able
To protect and keep us stable.
We have hope and peace in Him.
Look up... our future is not dim.

When we fear, He is our buoy.
If we're down, He brings us joy.
All our needs He will provide
As in His covering we abide.

"He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall remain stable and fixed under the shadow of the Almighty (Whose power no foe can withstand)."
Psalm 91:1 Amplified Bible

© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Reach Higher

When my grandson was just a toddler, he found some plums on the ground which had fallen from a flowering plum tree. He knew what plums were and wanted to eat some. We told him, "No, these are the kind birds like to eat."

He stretched his little arms upward with his hands full of these small plums and called, "Here, birdie, birdie. Here, birdie, birdie." But the birds were high in the trees and did not hear him. Finally, with a big sigh, he dropped his little arms and said, "Can't reach. Can't reach."

As adults, I think sometimes we are as this little child. We may have a goal to reach, or a special calling. We give it a try, realize it's too hard to do, and we give up. But we shouldn't quit, because through the grace of God we can reach higher than we think. And through prayer we can overcome obstacles in our way. He will strengthen us to accomplish what we thought we could not do.

Believe in Him. Trust in Him. And in His timing, God will make a way...

"Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths."
Proverbs 3:5 KJV

© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf