When we are in tune with God, He will weave all the pieces of our labors and service unto Him together into a beautiful mosaic design, unlike that of any other person.
He doesn't overlook any pieces. His handiwork will be complete. And so each life will shine with His beauty and will be a reflection of Him.
As we are filled with the fruit of the Spirit He will translate these qualities into color... heavenly color which cannot be created except by His hand.
By His hand we are translated into loveliness... His heavenly touch.
"And the beauty of the Lord our God be upon us..."
Psalm 90:17 KJV
"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance..."
Galatians 5:22 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Thursday, February 28, 2013
Wednesday, February 27, 2013
Transition And Change
When we are "comfy" we don't want to change.
We may have fear the "new" will feel strange.
We must assess the place where we are,
For factors of change our comfort may jar.
Change will affect our patterns of thought
And stretch us in ways we may not have sought.
To make a big change we need lots of grit
And willingness in our hearts to not quit.
Transition speaks of progress and movement,
And, yielded to God, will bring much improvement.
He is our "bridge" in times of transition
And covers us as we our lives reposition.
"He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler."
Psalm 91:4 KJV
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
We may have fear the "new" will feel strange.
We must assess the place where we are,
For factors of change our comfort may jar.
Change will affect our patterns of thought
And stretch us in ways we may not have sought.
To make a big change we need lots of grit
And willingness in our hearts to not quit.
Transition speaks of progress and movement,
And, yielded to God, will bring much improvement.
He is our "bridge" in times of transition
And covers us as we our lives reposition.
"He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler."
Psalm 91:4 KJV
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Tuesday, February 26, 2013
Peace In Troubling Times
If sometimes you're caught off guard
When challenges come at you hard,
Pause to pray and seek God's peace.
He'll cause anxiety to cease.
He will help you then to find
Solutions and deep peace of mind.
In the time you spend with Him
He will brighten what seems dim.
He'll bring strength to help you cope
And add to you increasing hope.
No matter what your circumstance,
His peace is sure... it's not by chance.
"Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid."
John 14:27 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
When challenges come at you hard,
Pause to pray and seek God's peace.
He'll cause anxiety to cease.
He will help you then to find
Solutions and deep peace of mind.
In the time you spend with Him
He will brighten what seems dim.
He'll bring strength to help you cope
And add to you increasing hope.
No matter what your circumstance,
His peace is sure... it's not by chance.
"Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid."
John 14:27 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Monday, February 25, 2013
Time And Priorities
If you are rushed and wondering whether
Time and priorities work well together,
With good priorities you will save time.
You'll get things done... do first what is prime.
Figuring out priorities first
Will cause poor time management to be reversed.
All of those things which need to get done
Will soon be accomplished... with time left for fun!
Priorities work... to eliminate worry.
You can relax and not have to scurry.
Important things first, other things next...
When you have order you won't be perplexed!
"For God is not the author of confusion..."
I Corinthians 14:33 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Time and priorities work well together,
With good priorities you will save time.
You'll get things done... do first what is prime.
Figuring out priorities first
Will cause poor time management to be reversed.
All of those things which need to get done
Will soon be accomplished... with time left for fun!
Priorities work... to eliminate worry.
You can relax and not have to scurry.
Important things first, other things next...
When you have order you won't be perplexed!
"For God is not the author of confusion..."
I Corinthians 14:33 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sunday, February 24, 2013
A Place To Rest
In the Word are wealth and riches
Where we find important "niches"...
Resting places which are sure
And healing streams of water pure.
We will find no greater treasure...
Full of wisdom beyond measure.
Scripture is God's precious gift,
Our souls to heal and lives to lift.
Pause there... meditate and rest.
By His wisdom you'll be blessed.
Any answers you may need
The Word will always far exceed.
"I rejoice at thy word, as one that findeth great spoil."
Psalm 119:162 KJV
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Where we find important "niches"...
Resting places which are sure
And healing streams of water pure.
We will find no greater treasure...
Full of wisdom beyond measure.
Scripture is God's precious gift,
Our souls to heal and lives to lift.
Pause there... meditate and rest.
By His wisdom you'll be blessed.
Any answers you may need
The Word will always far exceed.
"I rejoice at thy word, as one that findeth great spoil."
Psalm 119:162 KJV
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Saturday, February 23, 2013
God's Love For Us
The wonders of God's love amaze...
(Worthy of unending praise!)
That He should care for lowly sinners
And help them to become as "winners".
His love turns a life around
And causes blessings to abound.
All our sins He will erase
And cover us with boundless grace.
This is love from Heaven above.
How can we return such love
Except to always give Him glory
And let Him be our whole life's story.
"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
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
(Worthy of unending praise!)
That He should care for lowly sinners
And help them to become as "winners".
His love turns a life around
And causes blessings to abound.
All our sins He will erase
And cover us with boundless grace.
This is love from Heaven above.
How can we return such love
Except to always give Him glory
And let Him be our whole life's story.
"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
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Friday, February 22, 2013
Winning The Race
The "now" generation is speeding ahead
Without enough thought to wisdom foresaid.
A rich heritage should not be ignored.
This is an error we cannot afford.
Good heritage brings the balance we need,
Instilling wise pace for how to proceed.
If we rush forward without wise perspective
We later may wish we'd been more reflective.
"A little bit slower" might be a good pace
To really win well, whatever the race!!
Pausing to pray before we rush on
Ensures we are ready to "carry the baton".
"Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counselors there is safety."
Proverbs 11:14 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Without enough thought to wisdom foresaid.
A rich heritage should not be ignored.
This is an error we cannot afford.
Good heritage brings the balance we need,
Instilling wise pace for how to proceed.
If we rush forward without wise perspective
We later may wish we'd been more reflective.
"A little bit slower" might be a good pace
To really win well, whatever the race!!
Pausing to pray before we rush on
Ensures we are ready to "carry the baton".
"Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counselors there is safety."
Proverbs 11:14 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Thursday, February 21, 2013
A Healing Stream
Forgiveness is a healing stream
Whose waters aching hearts redeem.
Forgiveness is a fragrant balm
Which restores and brings us calm.
Forgiveness may be hard at first,
If in anger we're immersed.
When ire and woundedness prevail
Relationship it will derail.
When offense has taken place
Don't be caught in it's embrace.
Let forgiveness break it's hold...
It's healing power is as pure "gold".
"For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you."
Matthew 6:14 KJV
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Whose waters aching hearts redeem.
Forgiveness is a fragrant balm
Which restores and brings us calm.
Forgiveness may be hard at first,
If in anger we're immersed.
When ire and woundedness prevail
Relationship it will derail.
When offense has taken place
Don't be caught in it's embrace.
Let forgiveness break it's hold...
It's healing power is as pure "gold".
"For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you."
Matthew 6:14 KJV
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Wednesday, February 20, 2013
Complete In Him
The Lord our God is our friend and our keeper,
And inside our hearts He wants to go deeper.
Always He wants to change us within,
To fill us with love and free us from sin.
Without some heart-change, how will we know
The beautiful bounty He wants to bestow?
Sometimes we think His plans are a "stretch",
But inside our beings His love He will etch.
Deep in our hearts His home He will make...
To fill us with warmth and shield us from "ache".
He gives us balance which we cannot beat.
Whatever our lack, in Him we're complete.
"As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love. If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father's commandments, and abide in his love. These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might be full."
John 15:9-11 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
And inside our hearts He wants to go deeper.
Always He wants to change us within,
To fill us with love and free us from sin.
Without some heart-change, how will we know
The beautiful bounty He wants to bestow?
Sometimes we think His plans are a "stretch",
But inside our beings His love He will etch.
Deep in our hearts His home He will make...
To fill us with warmth and shield us from "ache".
He gives us balance which we cannot beat.
Whatever our lack, in Him we're complete.
"As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love. If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father's commandments, and abide in his love. These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might be full."
John 15:9-11 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Tuesday, February 19, 2013
A Happy Day
Do you want to have a happy day?
The first thing you should do is pray.
This will start your day out right
And cause it to be fresh and bright.
Thank God for His constant care.
Of His goodness be aware.
You will see with different eyes
And begin to realize...
Your outlook has been truly changed.
Your day with ease has been arranged.
Let God lead you through your day.
He knows your heart, He knows the way.
"My voice shalt thou hear in the morning, O Lord; in the morning will I direct my prayer unto thee, and will look up."
Psalm 5:3 KJV
© Arlene Schwartzkopf
The first thing you should do is pray.
This will start your day out right
And cause it to be fresh and bright.
Thank God for His constant care.
Of His goodness be aware.
You will see with different eyes
And begin to realize...
Your outlook has been truly changed.
Your day with ease has been arranged.
Let God lead you through your day.
He knows your heart, He knows the way.
"My voice shalt thou hear in the morning, O Lord; in the morning will I direct my prayer unto thee, and will look up."
Psalm 5:3 KJV
© Arlene Schwartzkopf
Monday, February 18, 2013
The Master Weaver
God weaves patterns in our lives...
Lovely, intricate design.
He puts every thread in place
And precious gold will intertwine.
Each life is a tapestry
With colors beautiful and rare,
Individual and unique...
Artistry beyond compare.
God delights in who we are
For He creates each life with flair,
Watching over His creation
With His wondrous loving care.
"Your hands have made me, cunningly fashioned and established me; give me understanding, that I may learn your commandments."
Psalm 119:73 Amplified Bible
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Lovely, intricate design.
He puts every thread in place
And precious gold will intertwine.
Each life is a tapestry
With colors beautiful and rare,
Individual and unique...
Artistry beyond compare.
God delights in who we are
For He creates each life with flair,
Watching over His creation
With His wondrous loving care.
"Your hands have made me, cunningly fashioned and established me; give me understanding, that I may learn your commandments."
Psalm 119:73 Amplified Bible
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sunday, February 17, 2013
Wisdom's Door
Always knock on Wisdom's door,
For every day you will need more.
Rewards will come from wisdom's quest.
It's Heaven's wealth. You should invest!
Those without face many "bumps".
They will stumble and get "lumps".
Wisdom is as oil in gears
For every problem which appears.
Wisdom is as polished gold,
But never will be bought or sold.
Find it in God's precious Word.
From it let your heart be stirred.
"Happy is the man that findeth wisdom, and the man that getteth understanding. For the merchandise of it is better than the merchandise of silver, and the gain thereof than fine gold. She is more precious than rubies: and all the things thou canst desire are not to be compared unto her."
Proverbs 3:13-15 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
For every day you will need more.
Rewards will come from wisdom's quest.
It's Heaven's wealth. You should invest!
Those without face many "bumps".
They will stumble and get "lumps".
Wisdom is as oil in gears
For every problem which appears.
Wisdom is as polished gold,
But never will be bought or sold.
Find it in God's precious Word.
From it let your heart be stirred.
"Happy is the man that findeth wisdom, and the man that getteth understanding. For the merchandise of it is better than the merchandise of silver, and the gain thereof than fine gold. She is more precious than rubies: and all the things thou canst desire are not to be compared unto her."
Proverbs 3:13-15 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Saturday, February 16, 2013
Covered In Him
No matter what my circumstance
In God I'm covered in advance.
I can rest in knowing this,
For God is never "hit-and-miss".
When I lean on Him in trust
His wisdom helps me to adjust
And understand what will be best
In every trial, in every test.
And so my life is safe in Him,
Full of hope and joy... not dim.
He will guide me... this I know.
Much gratitude to Him I owe.
"For He shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways. They shall bear thee up in their hands, lest thou dash thy foot against a stone."
Psalm 91:11-12 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
In God I'm covered in advance.
I can rest in knowing this,
For God is never "hit-and-miss".
When I lean on Him in trust
His wisdom helps me to adjust
And understand what will be best
In every trial, in every test.
And so my life is safe in Him,
Full of hope and joy... not dim.
He will guide me... this I know.
Much gratitude to Him I owe.
"For He shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways. They shall bear thee up in their hands, lest thou dash thy foot against a stone."
Psalm 91:11-12 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Friday, February 15, 2013
God's Calling
When God calls upon us, do we make excuse?
The reasons we give are sometimes profuse!
"I don't have time", or, "I am not ready".
"This makes me nervous", or, "I feel unsteady".
If He is calling us, He has good reason.
He may want to take us into a new season!
If we're lethargic or don't want to "go",
We may miss blessings He wants to bestow.
He goes before us, preparing the way.
We go in His strength as we trust and obey.
We should not question or keep asking "Why?"
His will is a blessing. On Him we rely.
"And Moses said unto the Lord, O my Lord, I am not eloquent, neither heretofore, nor since thou hast spoken unto thy servant: but I am slow of speech, and of a slow tongue. And the Lord said unto him, Who hath made man's mouth? Or who maketh the dumb, or deaf, or the seeing, or the blind? Have not I the Lord? Now therefore go, and I will be with thy mouth, and teach thee what thou shalt say."
Exodus 4:10-12 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
The reasons we give are sometimes profuse!
"I don't have time", or, "I am not ready".
"This makes me nervous", or, "I feel unsteady".
If He is calling us, He has good reason.
He may want to take us into a new season!
If we're lethargic or don't want to "go",
We may miss blessings He wants to bestow.
He goes before us, preparing the way.
We go in His strength as we trust and obey.
We should not question or keep asking "Why?"
His will is a blessing. On Him we rely.
"And Moses said unto the Lord, O my Lord, I am not eloquent, neither heretofore, nor since thou hast spoken unto thy servant: but I am slow of speech, and of a slow tongue. And the Lord said unto him, Who hath made man's mouth? Or who maketh the dumb, or deaf, or the seeing, or the blind? Have not I the Lord? Now therefore go, and I will be with thy mouth, and teach thee what thou shalt say."
Exodus 4:10-12 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Thursday, February 14, 2013
Love Is Able
Love is able to transcend and heal that which is broken.
By our actions and our words it's language will be spoken.
Love is humble, faithful, quiet, honest and true-blue.
It will cast out fear and doubt and bright hope will pursue.
Love takes time and deep commitment... sometimes through a storm,
But has a way of breaking through, it's wonders to perform.
In sharing and in caring of another's life to lift,
Love and tender friendship shown become a wondrous gift.
"Love never fails (never fades out or becomes obsolete or comes to an end)."
I Corinthians 13:8 Amplified Bible
"There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear..."
I John 4:18 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
By our actions and our words it's language will be spoken.
Love is humble, faithful, quiet, honest and true-blue.
It will cast out fear and doubt and bright hope will pursue.
Love takes time and deep commitment... sometimes through a storm,
But has a way of breaking through, it's wonders to perform.
In sharing and in caring of another's life to lift,
Love and tender friendship shown become a wondrous gift.
"Love never fails (never fades out or becomes obsolete or comes to an end)."
I Corinthians 13:8 Amplified Bible
"There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear..."
I John 4:18 KJV
© 2011 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Wednesday, February 13, 2013
When Children Speak
If a child wants to talk, he needs to be heard.
Let him express himself. Catch every word.
As you show interest he'll learn to express
His feelings and thoughts of joy or distress.
And when you listen he'll start to feel worth.
He won't be afraid new ideas to birth.
He'll know you're his friend... to you he will run.
In all his excitement you both will have fun!
"And he took a child, and set him in the midst of them: and when he had taken him in his arms, he said unto them, whosoever shall receive one of such children in my name, receiveth me: and whosoever shall receive me, receiveth not me, but him that sent me."
Mark 9:36 KJV
"And Jesus saith unto them, Yea; have ye never read, Out of the mouth of babes and sucklings thou hast perfected praise?"
Matthew 21:16 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Let him express himself. Catch every word.
As you show interest he'll learn to express
His feelings and thoughts of joy or distress.
And when you listen he'll start to feel worth.
He won't be afraid new ideas to birth.
He'll know you're his friend... to you he will run.
In all his excitement you both will have fun!
"And he took a child, and set him in the midst of them: and when he had taken him in his arms, he said unto them, whosoever shall receive one of such children in my name, receiveth me: and whosoever shall receive me, receiveth not me, but him that sent me."
Mark 9:36 KJV
"And Jesus saith unto them, Yea; have ye never read, Out of the mouth of babes and sucklings thou hast perfected praise?"
Matthew 21:16 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Tuesday, February 12, 2013
Special Gifts
Our giftings from God may be hidden inside...
Yet undiscovered because of our pride.
Or maybe our busyness covets first place.
For deep things of God we've not allowed space.
The giftings God gives deserve our attention.
As we seek Him we gain comprehension.
Then we will blossom as we make pursuit
To grow in His giftings and bring forth good fruit.
Sometimes a life gets weary and weathered
If to the Lord it has not been tethered.
But, even so, it's never too late.
The Lord's lovingkindness and mercy are great.
"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
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Yet undiscovered because of our pride.
Or maybe our busyness covets first place.
For deep things of God we've not allowed space.
The giftings God gives deserve our attention.
As we seek Him we gain comprehension.
Then we will blossom as we make pursuit
To grow in His giftings and bring forth good fruit.
Sometimes a life gets weary and weathered
If to the Lord it has not been tethered.
But, even so, it's never too late.
The Lord's lovingkindness and mercy are great.
"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
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Monday, February 11, 2013
We Need God
Our God has power
We need in this hour.
But we shut Him out.
His tenets we flout!
Life will go on,
But it will be wan
Till we honor God
And give Him our nod.
God can work wonders
To heal our blunders.
If we'll let Him guide
He'll stop evil's tide.
Our God knows best
When we are hard-pressed.
Reverence His name!
His honor proclaim!
"And thou shalt do that which is right and good in the sight of the Lord: that it may be well with thee..."
Deuteronomy 6:18 KJV
"Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord: and the people whom he hath chosen for his own inheritance."
Psalm 33:12 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
We need in this hour.
But we shut Him out.
His tenets we flout!
Life will go on,
But it will be wan
Till we honor God
And give Him our nod.
God can work wonders
To heal our blunders.
If we'll let Him guide
He'll stop evil's tide.
Our God knows best
When we are hard-pressed.
Reverence His name!
His honor proclaim!
"And thou shalt do that which is right and good in the sight of the Lord: that it may be well with thee..."
Deuteronomy 6:18 KJV
"Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord: and the people whom he hath chosen for his own inheritance."
Psalm 33:12 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sunday, February 10, 2013
Careful Footsteps
We cannot see around the bend
Or even know tomorrow's trend.
On God the Father we must lean
And all our guidance from Him glean
He prepares each step we take
So we don't err or make mistake.
Our direction He may turn...
What we don't see He will discern.
Steps we take may not make sense
But will have good consequence.
God can see around the bend.
All our steps He will attend.
"For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts."
Isaiah 55:8-9 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Or even know tomorrow's trend.
On God the Father we must lean
And all our guidance from Him glean
He prepares each step we take
So we don't err or make mistake.
Our direction He may turn...
What we don't see He will discern.
Steps we take may not make sense
But will have good consequence.
God can see around the bend.
All our steps He will attend.
"For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts."
Isaiah 55:8-9 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Saturday, February 09, 2013
A Gentle Touch
Most folks need a gentle touch
And will appreciate it much.
Kind words are as gifts of gold
And offer hope on which to hold.
Gentleness will bring a smile
And often go the second mile
To let folks know you really care
And lift them from life's wear and tear.
A gentle touch is just so nice.
A gift of warmth beyond all price,
Offering a ray of light,
Making someone's day so bright.
"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance..."
Galatians 5:22 KJV
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
And will appreciate it much.
Kind words are as gifts of gold
And offer hope on which to hold.
Gentleness will bring a smile
And often go the second mile
To let folks know you really care
And lift them from life's wear and tear.
A gentle touch is just so nice.
A gift of warmth beyond all price,
Offering a ray of light,
Making someone's day so bright.
"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance..."
Galatians 5:22 KJV
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Friday, February 08, 2013
Families Together
Gathering together at the dinner table is a wonderful time for fellowship and conversation and bonding together. Families so need this today. But this precious "tradition" in some families has almost been lost. It is threatened by busy work schedules, after-school activities and numerous other distractions. When this happens communication begins to suffer.
It is important to re-think this. It seems that we need to establish a "do not disturb" dinner time... with no television or radio running in the background, no cell phones, no texting, no toys, etc., just fun and laughter and caring and sharing as we eat together. This will re-establish the importance of family over all the other activities which tend to draw us apart.
I can remember coming home from church, sitting down to eat, and everyone choking down their food so they could go watch a game on television. There was no conversation as we ate, no conversation during the game, and then the children ran outside to play. The lack of communication left an emptiness in our day.
We need to slow down enough to enjoy each other. Children especially need this example...
"Unless the Lord build the house, they labour in vain that build it."
Psalm 127:1 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
It is important to re-think this. It seems that we need to establish a "do not disturb" dinner time... with no television or radio running in the background, no cell phones, no texting, no toys, etc., just fun and laughter and caring and sharing as we eat together. This will re-establish the importance of family over all the other activities which tend to draw us apart.
I can remember coming home from church, sitting down to eat, and everyone choking down their food so they could go watch a game on television. There was no conversation as we ate, no conversation during the game, and then the children ran outside to play. The lack of communication left an emptiness in our day.
We need to slow down enough to enjoy each other. Children especially need this example...
"Unless the Lord build the house, they labour in vain that build it."
Psalm 127:1 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Thursday, February 07, 2013
Higher Learning
The schools which we attend, with goals of higher learning,
Cannot match experience for lessons in "discerning".
Learning happens over time and simply can't be rushed.
Patiently through trial and error we learn, but still are "hushed".
Sometimes we have challenges we do not like at all.
But rising up and solving them will make us to stand tall.
We may have opinions, but o'er time these too will change,
For as we gather wisdom our "sight" is longer-range.
Observation teaches well, so watch and listen much,
Always seeking to learn more, avoiding snares and such.
It takes a lot of living to be taught and to be wise.
Gathered over many years, life's teaching is a prize!
"Happy is the man that findeth wisdom, and the man that getteth understanding."
Proverbs 3:13 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Cannot match experience for lessons in "discerning".
Learning happens over time and simply can't be rushed.
Patiently through trial and error we learn, but still are "hushed".
Sometimes we have challenges we do not like at all.
But rising up and solving them will make us to stand tall.
We may have opinions, but o'er time these too will change,
For as we gather wisdom our "sight" is longer-range.
Observation teaches well, so watch and listen much,
Always seeking to learn more, avoiding snares and such.
It takes a lot of living to be taught and to be wise.
Gathered over many years, life's teaching is a prize!
"Happy is the man that findeth wisdom, and the man that getteth understanding."
Proverbs 3:13 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Wednesday, February 06, 2013
Our Creative God
All that God does has exquisite design.
His attention to detail is matchless and fine.
But some of His "benefits" may seem quite plain
(And try as we will, just cannot explain).
He has a purpose to make us the best
And tempers our lives so we will be blessed.
As we are faithful to follow His plan
We reap all the blessing of what He began.
His creativity makes us unique.
Into each life His beauty will speak
And bring special blessings which in Him abound...
Outpouring from God which is truly profound.
"Know ye that the Lord he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves..."
Psalm 100:3 KJV
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
His attention to detail is matchless and fine.
But some of His "benefits" may seem quite plain
(And try as we will, just cannot explain).
He has a purpose to make us the best
And tempers our lives so we will be blessed.
As we are faithful to follow His plan
We reap all the blessing of what He began.
His creativity makes us unique.
Into each life His beauty will speak
And bring special blessings which in Him abound...
Outpouring from God which is truly profound.
"Know ye that the Lord he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves..."
Psalm 100:3 KJV
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Tuesday, February 05, 2013
This Is A New Day
This is a new day... the past times are gone.
We should feel excitement with every new dawn.
Let us move forward, but not "limp" along,
When we can walk with a heart full of song!
We can't look back nor open closed doors,
But can gather new riches which our God outpours.
This is a new day... to "rise up" and soar,
To serve our great God with each open door!
"This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it."
Psalm 118:24 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
We should feel excitement with every new dawn.
Let us move forward, but not "limp" along,
When we can walk with a heart full of song!
We can't look back nor open closed doors,
But can gather new riches which our God outpours.
This is a new day... to "rise up" and soar,
To serve our great God with each open door!
"This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it."
Psalm 118:24 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Monday, February 04, 2013
Order
Let my life's order be pleasing to You.
Let me be focused in all that I do.
Help me eliminate "din" and confusion
And discern the truth from "words" and illusion.
Order brings balance and deep peace of mind.
With wisdom our lives become well-defined.
We learn what is urgent and know what is best.
Sometimes we're "pushed', but know when to rest.
Ideas and trivia can sometimes blur fact.
They take up our time and tend to distract.
But order will save us the time we may spend...
And definitely is a very good friend!
"You will guard him and keep him in perfect and constant peace whose mind (both its inclination and its character) is stayed on You, because he commits himself to You, leans on You and hopes confidently in You."
Isaiah 26:3 Amplified Bible
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Let me be focused in all that I do.
Help me eliminate "din" and confusion
And discern the truth from "words" and illusion.
Order brings balance and deep peace of mind.
With wisdom our lives become well-defined.
We learn what is urgent and know what is best.
Sometimes we're "pushed', but know when to rest.
Ideas and trivia can sometimes blur fact.
They take up our time and tend to distract.
But order will save us the time we may spend...
And definitely is a very good friend!
"You will guard him and keep him in perfect and constant peace whose mind (both its inclination and its character) is stayed on You, because he commits himself to You, leans on You and hopes confidently in You."
Isaiah 26:3 Amplified Bible
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sunday, February 03, 2013
Clear Vision
To see real beauty, my "sight" must be changed.
My thoughts and perception must be rearranged.
I must re-think the way that I see
So I won't miss beauty which may surround me...
Training my heart to always see good
And seek out God's beauty wherever I should,
Cutting through haze which fogs up my vision,
To recognize worth with Godly precision.
Gold may be hidden in folks whom I know.
I could encourage that beauty to grow.
Lord, help me see the way that You see
And hopefully be all that I should be.
"Open thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of thy law."
Psalm 119:18 KJV
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
My thoughts and perception must be rearranged.
I must re-think the way that I see
So I won't miss beauty which may surround me...
Training my heart to always see good
And seek out God's beauty wherever I should,
Cutting through haze which fogs up my vision,
To recognize worth with Godly precision.
Gold may be hidden in folks whom I know.
I could encourage that beauty to grow.
Lord, help me see the way that You see
And hopefully be all that I should be.
"Open thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of thy law."
Psalm 119:18 KJV
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Saturday, February 02, 2013
Love Never Fails
Families which are close-knit
Will have a special kind of grit.
Closely bonded, they will stand,
Hearts united, hand-in-hand.
Each will help the other one
To finish all the goals begun.
None is left to stand alone,
For love and caring have been sown.
When homes are filled with Jesus' love,
Blessings there are from above.
Special bonding will abide
And rest on those who there reside.
"Love never fails..."
I Corinthians 13:8 Amplified Bible
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Will have a special kind of grit.
Closely bonded, they will stand,
Hearts united, hand-in-hand.
Each will help the other one
To finish all the goals begun.
None is left to stand alone,
For love and caring have been sown.
When homes are filled with Jesus' love,
Blessings there are from above.
Special bonding will abide
And rest on those who there reside.
"Love never fails..."
I Corinthians 13:8 Amplified Bible
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Friday, February 01, 2013
A Perplexing Problem
Our lives have been invaded
By cell phones, games and texting.
For seniors of a different era
This can be perplexing!
We have learned to talk in depth.
We didn't need this "stuff".
We just enjoyed each other.
Good sharing was enough.
Now people are distracted
In everything they do
By games and fancy gadgets
Which they endlessly pursue.
Relationships have suffered,
For some don't even talk.
Their eyes are glued to every text.
At this I tend to balk!
TV hampered family ties.
Communication then was lost.
While phones and games are lots of fun,
Be careful of the cost!
"Whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report: if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things."
Philippians 4:8 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
By cell phones, games and texting.
For seniors of a different era
This can be perplexing!
We have learned to talk in depth.
We didn't need this "stuff".
We just enjoyed each other.
Good sharing was enough.
Now people are distracted
In everything they do
By games and fancy gadgets
Which they endlessly pursue.
Relationships have suffered,
For some don't even talk.
Their eyes are glued to every text.
At this I tend to balk!
TV hampered family ties.
Communication then was lost.
While phones and games are lots of fun,
Be careful of the cost!
"Whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report: if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things."
Philippians 4:8 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
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