Summer sang her pretty song,
But now she marches right along,
Knowing that her stay is short.
To Autumn she must soon give court.
She has warmed our hearts and lives.
We’re always glad when she arrives.
But soon we’ll see her wave “good-bye”
As Autumn’s jubilee draws nigh.
For Autumn also has a song
And has been waiting all year long
To do what she seems to do best.
By her color we’ll be much blessed.
“O Lord, our Lord, how excellent is thy name in all the earth!”
Psalm 8:9 KJV
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Saturday, August 31, 2013
Friday, August 30, 2013
A New School Year
Our children need a prayer covering...
Many angels round them hovering,
As a shelter from all harm
And having freedom from alarm.
We must watch and be aware
And keep them covered by our prayer
So they may blossom and mature
With goals and knowledge which are pure.
Sometimes school just isn’t easy,
Causing children to feel queasy.
Listen to their every need
And for them daily intercede.
“Lo, children are an heritage of the Lord...”
Psalm 127:3 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Many angels round them hovering,
As a shelter from all harm
And having freedom from alarm.
We must watch and be aware
And keep them covered by our prayer
So they may blossom and mature
With goals and knowledge which are pure.
Sometimes school just isn’t easy,
Causing children to feel queasy.
Listen to their every need
And for them daily intercede.
“Lo, children are an heritage of the Lord...”
Psalm 127:3 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Thursday, August 29, 2013
Haste Makes Waste
Some folks sweep across the surface of a situation
And appear to know just how to get a project done.
But when they move ahead in haste, without attention to detail,
They may have to start again the project first begun.
Success will often rest within their fine attention to details
And diligence to oversee those things which may seem small.
A project which may have a flaw will never seem to be complete
And may not be successful or dependable at all.
When “rushing” cuts a project short, in efforts to impress,
“Haste makes waste” will hover near and sometimes bring distaste.
How much wiser then to pause and make sure everything is right,
With no detail overlooked in hurrying and haste.
“A faithful man shall abound with blessings...”
Proverbs 28:20 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
And appear to know just how to get a project done.
But when they move ahead in haste, without attention to detail,
They may have to start again the project first begun.
Success will often rest within their fine attention to details
And diligence to oversee those things which may seem small.
A project which may have a flaw will never seem to be complete
And may not be successful or dependable at all.
When “rushing” cuts a project short, in efforts to impress,
“Haste makes waste” will hover near and sometimes bring distaste.
How much wiser then to pause and make sure everything is right,
With no detail overlooked in hurrying and haste.
“A faithful man shall abound with blessings...”
Proverbs 28:20 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Wednesday, August 28, 2013
His Burden Is Light
The weights which we carry are sometimes too much.
We need Jesus’ help and His tender touch.
With Him at our side our burdens are light.
He helps us to rest and not be uptight.
He doesn’t want us to stand all alone
Or tremble in fear of what is unknown.
He gives us joy and makes worries cease.
He is our strength... in Him we have peace.
When we’re o’erwhelmed He hears all our prayers.
We have this hope... that He really cares.
He is our friend through every trial.
He gives us strength to “go the next mile”.
“Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy-laden and over burdened, and I will cause you to rest... I will ease and relieve and refresh your souls. Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am gentle (meek) and humble (lowly) in heart, and you will find rest... relief, ease and refreshment and recreation and blessed quiet... for your souls. For My yoke is wholesome (useful, good)... not harsh, hard, sharp or pressing, but comfortable, gracious and pleasant; and My burden is light and easy to be borne.”
Matthew 11:28 Amplified Bible
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
We need Jesus’ help and His tender touch.
With Him at our side our burdens are light.
He helps us to rest and not be uptight.
He doesn’t want us to stand all alone
Or tremble in fear of what is unknown.
He gives us joy and makes worries cease.
He is our strength... in Him we have peace.
When we’re o’erwhelmed He hears all our prayers.
We have this hope... that He really cares.
He is our friend through every trial.
He gives us strength to “go the next mile”.
“Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy-laden and over burdened, and I will cause you to rest... I will ease and relieve and refresh your souls. Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am gentle (meek) and humble (lowly) in heart, and you will find rest... relief, ease and refreshment and recreation and blessed quiet... for your souls. For My yoke is wholesome (useful, good)... not harsh, hard, sharp or pressing, but comfortable, gracious and pleasant; and My burden is light and easy to be borne.”
Matthew 11:28 Amplified Bible
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Tuesday, August 27, 2013
Termite Control
We must sift information to keep “termites” out...
Those thoughts and ideas which cause us to doubt.
“Termites” will chew and gnaw a foundation
And can’t be allowed to have circulation.
The Word is our “screen” to help us sort out
The truth from the “termites” which bandy about.
When the Word is in place the “termites” can’t enter.
Knowing the Word is a top-notch preventer.
“Termites” erode and cause much destruction
To that which is good and under construction.
But through God’s Word we learn to be wise,
Avoiding confusion from “termite” surprise.
“For the Word that God speaks is alive and full of power - making it active, operative, energizing and effective; it is sharper than any two-edged sword, penetrating to the dividing line of the breath of life (soul) and (the immortal) spirit, and of joints and marrow (that is, of the deepest parts of our nature) exposing and sifting and analyzing and judging the very thoughts and purposes of the heart.”
Hebrews 4:12 Amplified Bible
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Those thoughts and ideas which cause us to doubt.
“Termites” will chew and gnaw a foundation
And can’t be allowed to have circulation.
The Word is our “screen” to help us sort out
The truth from the “termites” which bandy about.
When the Word is in place the “termites” can’t enter.
Knowing the Word is a top-notch preventer.
“Termites” erode and cause much destruction
To that which is good and under construction.
But through God’s Word we learn to be wise,
Avoiding confusion from “termite” surprise.
“For the Word that God speaks is alive and full of power - making it active, operative, energizing and effective; it is sharper than any two-edged sword, penetrating to the dividing line of the breath of life (soul) and (the immortal) spirit, and of joints and marrow (that is, of the deepest parts of our nature) exposing and sifting and analyzing and judging the very thoughts and purposes of the heart.”
Hebrews 4:12 Amplified Bible
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Monday, August 26, 2013
Little Things
Little things we do each day
Combine to make a finished work.
We will have accomplishment
If little things we do not shirk.
The “work” we do in little bits
To others may not even show.
But over time that which we’ve done
Into a mighty work will grow.
“Piece by piece” and “bit by bit”
A lot of effort doesn’t take.
With diligence and faithfulness
Surprising forward strides we’ll make!
Some things simply can’t be rushed
But prosper if we do not quit.
And so we reach our chosen goal
By daily diligence and grit.
“From the fruit of his words a man shall be satisfied with good, and the work of a man’s hands shall come back to him.”
Proverbs 12:14 Amplified Bible
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Combine to make a finished work.
We will have accomplishment
If little things we do not shirk.
The “work” we do in little bits
To others may not even show.
But over time that which we’ve done
Into a mighty work will grow.
“Piece by piece” and “bit by bit”
A lot of effort doesn’t take.
With diligence and faithfulness
Surprising forward strides we’ll make!
Some things simply can’t be rushed
But prosper if we do not quit.
And so we reach our chosen goal
By daily diligence and grit.
“From the fruit of his words a man shall be satisfied with good, and the work of a man’s hands shall come back to him.”
Proverbs 12:14 Amplified Bible
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sunday, August 25, 2013
A New Course
Events in our lives will bring about change
And cause us to re-think our purpose long-range.
A single event can jar us awake
And cause us to see... or maybe to quake.
When God intercepts the path we are on
It may be the start of a bright new dawn.
We may not quite see what He has in mind
For at first His whole plan may not be defined.
Waiting and trusting and letting Him lead
Is part of the growth that helps us succeed.
The change that He brings will re-set our course.
He gives us great wisdom... He is our Source.
“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
And cause us to re-think our purpose long-range.
A single event can jar us awake
And cause us to see... or maybe to quake.
When God intercepts the path we are on
It may be the start of a bright new dawn.
We may not quite see what He has in mind
For at first His whole plan may not be defined.
Waiting and trusting and letting Him lead
Is part of the growth that helps us succeed.
The change that He brings will re-set our course.
He gives us great wisdom... He is our Source.
“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
Saturday, August 24, 2013
A Good Teacher
We cannot learn patience
If we’re in a hurry,
For patience means “wait”
And “rest, do not worry”.
We cannot rush patience.
She teaches quite well.
In her wise timing
We must learn to dwell.
She’ll make us stretch
And groan as we grow.
But when she is learned,
Good wisdom we’ll know.
Often she saves us
From errors we would make.
She fills us with wisdom
For each step we take.
“But let endurance and steadfastness and patience have full play and do a thorough work, so that you may be (people) perfectly and fully developed (with no defects), lacking in nothing.”
James 1:4 Amplified Bible
© 2013 Arlene Schwrtzkopf
If we’re in a hurry,
For patience means “wait”
And “rest, do not worry”.
We cannot rush patience.
She teaches quite well.
In her wise timing
We must learn to dwell.
She’ll make us stretch
And groan as we grow.
But when she is learned,
Good wisdom we’ll know.
Often she saves us
From errors we would make.
She fills us with wisdom
For each step we take.
“But let endurance and steadfastness and patience have full play and do a thorough work, so that you may be (people) perfectly and fully developed (with no defects), lacking in nothing.”
James 1:4 Amplified Bible
© 2013 Arlene Schwrtzkopf
Friday, August 23, 2013
A Breath Of Fresh Air
How beautiful the person
Who will hear another’s cries or sighs
And take a moment just to pray,
Washing teardrops from their eyes.
An act of love in one short pause
Can heal a wound or stem a tide
For someone who is overwhelmed
And carries burdens deep inside,
Encouragement from one nearby
Brings strength and renewed confidence
To carry on and not give up
When struggling for good consequence.
A “breath of fresh air” may be needed.
Sometimes this is all it takes...
To bring encouragement and love.
How much difference caring makes!
“Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.”
Colossians 3:15 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Who will hear another’s cries or sighs
And take a moment just to pray,
Washing teardrops from their eyes.
An act of love in one short pause
Can heal a wound or stem a tide
For someone who is overwhelmed
And carries burdens deep inside,
Encouragement from one nearby
Brings strength and renewed confidence
To carry on and not give up
When struggling for good consequence.
A “breath of fresh air” may be needed.
Sometimes this is all it takes...
To bring encouragement and love.
How much difference caring makes!
“Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.”
Colossians 3:15 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Thursday, August 22, 2013
A Winning Race
The real winner may not be
The one who can run fast,
For wisdom’s wealth along the way
He quickly may run past.
He who sets a steady pace
May likely have more gain.
Though he never wins a race,
But his steps won’t be in vain.
For he with diligence will run
And gather riches on his way.
Growing in perception,
From his path he will not stray.
Knowing he has done his best
And knowing God will bring reward,
By running faithfully his race
A winning race he will have scored.
“Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.”
Hebrews 12:1-2 KJV
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
The one who can run fast,
For wisdom’s wealth along the way
He quickly may run past.
He who sets a steady pace
May likely have more gain.
Though he never wins a race,
But his steps won’t be in vain.
For he with diligence will run
And gather riches on his way.
Growing in perception,
From his path he will not stray.
Knowing he has done his best
And knowing God will bring reward,
By running faithfully his race
A winning race he will have scored.
“Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.”
Hebrews 12:1-2 KJV
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Wednesday, August 21, 2013
Let Peace Rule
If you do not have God’s peace,
Then you should not move ahead.
For when things do not seem to gel,
Potential plans just won’t go well.
You may labor all alone
When you do things on you own.
The Lord directs if you will ask,
Enabling you to do each task.
When God says the plan is right
And from Him you have insight,
Blessings will wait at your door
Because the Lord has “gone before”.
“And let the peace of God rule in your hearts...”
Colossians 3:15 KJV
“Shew me thy ways, O Lord; teach me thy paths.”
Psalm 25:4 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Then you should not move ahead.
For when things do not seem to gel,
Potential plans just won’t go well.
You may labor all alone
When you do things on you own.
The Lord directs if you will ask,
Enabling you to do each task.
When God says the plan is right
And from Him you have insight,
Blessings will wait at your door
Because the Lord has “gone before”.
“And let the peace of God rule in your hearts...”
Colossians 3:15 KJV
“Shew me thy ways, O Lord; teach me thy paths.”
Psalm 25:4 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Tuesday, August 20, 2013
By Example
If you are a mom or dad,
Your kids will watch you... make them glad!
They won’t recall your “talking-to”,
But what you did is what they’ll do.
They will need your help to learn.
To be like you they deeply yearn.
And what they see with their young eyes
Their little minds will memorize.
Children bring a “wake-up call”...
We really do not “know it all”.
They “stump” us with their constant “why’s?”
And what they know will bring surprise.
Stay in touch with what they know,
And by example, goodness sow.
Give to them your very best,
And through the years you will be blessed.
“Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.”
Proverbs 22:6 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Your kids will watch you... make them glad!
They won’t recall your “talking-to”,
But what you did is what they’ll do.
They will need your help to learn.
To be like you they deeply yearn.
And what they see with their young eyes
Their little minds will memorize.
Children bring a “wake-up call”...
We really do not “know it all”.
They “stump” us with their constant “why’s?”
And what they know will bring surprise.
Stay in touch with what they know,
And by example, goodness sow.
Give to them your very best,
And through the years you will be blessed.
“Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.”
Proverbs 22:6 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Monday, August 19, 2013
Healing Salve
Unforgiveness builds a wall
And hinders good relationship.
Wounds and scars just will not heal
When folks are on an “ego-trip”.
Forgiveness needs a humble heart
Which says, “I will not take offense,
Even though I do not see
A single shred of recompense.”
Forgiveness is a healing salve
Which soothes the impact of offense,
Releasing new-found love inside
And bringing blessed consequence.
Joy springs forth from deep inside
As a fountain of great worth,
Refreshing “sore and tender spots”
And to healing giving birth.
“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
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
And hinders good relationship.
Wounds and scars just will not heal
When folks are on an “ego-trip”.
Forgiveness needs a humble heart
Which says, “I will not take offense,
Even though I do not see
A single shred of recompense.”
Forgiveness is a healing salve
Which soothes the impact of offense,
Releasing new-found love inside
And bringing blessed consequence.
Joy springs forth from deep inside
As a fountain of great worth,
Refreshing “sore and tender spots”
And to healing giving birth.
“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
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sunday, August 18, 2013
Seniors Are A Treasure
Come near to the seniors,
For they have lived long
And gathered much wisdom.
Their insights are strong.
Hear what they speak.
Consider it well.
They’ll have good perspective
To help you excel.
They are not old-fashioned.
They’re “sharp as a tack”!
They’ve lived through hard times
But did not have lack.
They read through their Bibles
And worked hard each day.
They have great treasures
Of wisdom to weigh.
“The glory of young men is their strength, and the beauty of old men is their gray head (suggesting wisdom and experience).”
Proverbs 20:29 Amplified Bible
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
For they have lived long
And gathered much wisdom.
Their insights are strong.
Hear what they speak.
Consider it well.
They’ll have good perspective
To help you excel.
They are not old-fashioned.
They’re “sharp as a tack”!
They’ve lived through hard times
But did not have lack.
They read through their Bibles
And worked hard each day.
They have great treasures
Of wisdom to weigh.
“The glory of young men is their strength, and the beauty of old men is their gray head (suggesting wisdom and experience).”
Proverbs 20:29 Amplified Bible
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Saturday, August 17, 2013
Reverence Learned
Reverence speaks of holiness,
And never does it put self first.
It will never raise it’s voice,
Insisting just how well it’s versed.
Reverence pauses and it waits,
And measures every word it speaks.
It is willing to step back
And bow down. lest great harm it wreaks.
Reverence learned is wisdom’s prize
And goes before the one who’s wise.
Reverence helps that one to “see”
And from all conflict to be free.
“Blessed, happy, fortunate (and to be envied) is the man who reverently and worshipfully fears the Lord at all times (regardless of circumstances)...”
Proverbs 28:14 Amplified Bible
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
And never does it put self first.
It will never raise it’s voice,
Insisting just how well it’s versed.
Reverence pauses and it waits,
And measures every word it speaks.
It is willing to step back
And bow down. lest great harm it wreaks.
Reverence learned is wisdom’s prize
And goes before the one who’s wise.
Reverence helps that one to “see”
And from all conflict to be free.
“Blessed, happy, fortunate (and to be envied) is the man who reverently and worshipfully fears the Lord at all times (regardless of circumstances)...”
Proverbs 28:14 Amplified Bible
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Friday, August 16, 2013
Instruments Of Peace
Using wisdom when we speak can save us lots of trouble.
Measured words can “stop a train” of discord which might double.
Thoughtfulness and gentleness will douse the flames of ire
And bring a gentle context before there is a “fire”.
We can’t predict what might be said to us in times of stress,
But we can bring a balance by kindness and finesse.
We must practice first to listen, and pause before we speak.
We may need to be silent, or turn the other cheek.
Problems maybe then can be averted or defused
If kindness and diplomacy are present and are used.
As we study how we can be instruments of peace
The Lord will help us to be calm and give us expertise.
“Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath.”
James 1:19 KJV
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Measured words can “stop a train” of discord which might double.
Thoughtfulness and gentleness will douse the flames of ire
And bring a gentle context before there is a “fire”.
We can’t predict what might be said to us in times of stress,
But we can bring a balance by kindness and finesse.
We must practice first to listen, and pause before we speak.
We may need to be silent, or turn the other cheek.
Problems maybe then can be averted or defused
If kindness and diplomacy are present and are used.
As we study how we can be instruments of peace
The Lord will help us to be calm and give us expertise.
“Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath.”
James 1:19 KJV
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Thursday, August 15, 2013
Blessed Simplicity
The world is moving much too fast.
We’re overlooking things that last.
Living in simplicity
Should be a constant, daily plea.
Things that tend to jar our peace
Just seem to grow and have increase.
If we’re caught up in this swirl
Our peace of mind will be awhirl.
More than ever it is wise
Unto the Lord to turn our eyes.
He will anchor us each day
So we don’t err or go astray.
“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
“Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth”
Colossians 3:2 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
We’re overlooking things that last.
Living in simplicity
Should be a constant, daily plea.
Things that tend to jar our peace
Just seem to grow and have increase.
If we’re caught up in this swirl
Our peace of mind will be awhirl.
More than ever it is wise
Unto the Lord to turn our eyes.
He will anchor us each day
So we don’t err or go astray.
“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
“Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth”
Colossians 3:2 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Wednesday, August 14, 2013
Let Freedom Ring
Many tremble, many fear
As loss of freedoms hovers near.
It is needful every day
To lift our voice to God and pray.
When God’s people intercede
They’re planting healthy, fruitful seed
To offset evil’s wayward tide,
That in our land peace may abide.
Truth and righteousness must rule,
And prayer is our strongest tool.
To guarantee that we are free
S pend some time on bended knee.
Pray that God will raise up those
Who stand for truth and lies oppose,
Endued with power from the Lord,
Who challenge lies too long ignored.
“Our help is in the name of the Lord, who made heaven and earth.”
Psalm 124:8 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
As loss of freedoms hovers near.
It is needful every day
To lift our voice to God and pray.
When God’s people intercede
They’re planting healthy, fruitful seed
To offset evil’s wayward tide,
That in our land peace may abide.
Truth and righteousness must rule,
And prayer is our strongest tool.
To guarantee that we are free
S pend some time on bended knee.
Pray that God will raise up those
Who stand for truth and lies oppose,
Endued with power from the Lord,
Who challenge lies too long ignored.
“Our help is in the name of the Lord, who made heaven and earth.”
Psalm 124:8 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Tuesday, August 13, 2013
An Important Moment
Every morning when I get up there is a moment when I must choose my focus for the day... I can let my mind set off running with thoughts of everything I have to do that day, or I can enter into worship and focus on the goodness of God. In that defining moment when I make choice to spend time with the Lord, He will totally change the complexion of the day. I can enter in with peace and joy and confidence that I will indeed see the goodness of God in everything I do.
He gives me balance. He helps me to stay calm. He redeems my time for me and helps me to keep order in my day. He walks with me... I can feel His encouragement.
That first choice of the day... to spend time with Him... determines the rest of my day... and it is good.
“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
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
He gives me balance. He helps me to stay calm. He redeems my time for me and helps me to keep order in my day. He walks with me... I can feel His encouragement.
That first choice of the day... to spend time with Him... determines the rest of my day... and it is good.
“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
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Monday, August 12, 2013
God Stirring In Us
When we’re “still” and do not fuss,
The gifts of God will stir in us.
If we’ll let Him have His way
And all His leading will obey...
He will change the path we’re on.
The former things will be long gone.
Perspectives change on what has worth
And new priorities will birth.
If we miss His chosen way,
At first we go “a bit” astray.
If our error we don’t correct
The error will have increased effect.
We must go back to that point
Where things in life got “out of joint”.
How we need to just be “still”
So we will know God’s gifts and will.
“For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.”
Ephesians 2:10 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
The gifts of God will stir in us.
If we’ll let Him have His way
And all His leading will obey...
He will change the path we’re on.
The former things will be long gone.
Perspectives change on what has worth
And new priorities will birth.
If we miss His chosen way,
At first we go “a bit” astray.
If our error we don’t correct
The error will have increased effect.
We must go back to that point
Where things in life got “out of joint”.
How we need to just be “still”
So we will know God’s gifts and will.
“For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.”
Ephesians 2:10 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sunday, August 11, 2013
He Is Worthy
Worship the Lord... to Him be all praise...
With jubilation much glory to raise!
From dawn of the day till dusk of the eve,
Our God is worthy all praise to receive.
He is our righteousness, He is our shield.
In Him all wisdom and truth are revealed.
As we abide and seek out His face,
We then may live in the richness of grace.
In Him we’re covered, we’re never alone.
Always He’s faithful to watch o’er His own.
Bring adoration and lift up His name.
Our God is worthy of all our acclaim!
“Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power...”
Revelation 4:11 KJV
“For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
Romans 8:28 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
With jubilation much glory to raise!
From dawn of the day till dusk of the eve,
Our God is worthy all praise to receive.
He is our righteousness, He is our shield.
In Him all wisdom and truth are revealed.
As we abide and seek out His face,
We then may live in the richness of grace.
In Him we’re covered, we’re never alone.
Always He’s faithful to watch o’er His own.
Bring adoration and lift up His name.
Our God is worthy of all our acclaim!
“Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power...”
Revelation 4:11 KJV
“For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
Romans 8:28 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Saturday, August 10, 2013
Strength In Prayer
Prayer brings stability...
In our lives and in our land.
Prayer is the solid ground
On which we build and where we stand.
Those within the place of prayer
Are sheltered from surprise and storm,
Keeping balance, finding rest,
Having peace God gives as norm.
Prayer brings us inner strength...
Endurance to meet daily test.
Prayer meets our lack and need
In times when we are sorely pressed.
Times of prayer bring steadiness...
So much needed every day,
Girding us with power and might
To meet whatever comes our way.
“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
“Do not fret or have any anxiety about anything, but in every circumstance and in everything by prayer and petition (definite requests) with thankgiving continue to make your wants known to God. And God’s peace (be yours, that tranquil state of a soul assured of its salvation through Christ, and so fearing nothing from God and content with its earthly lot of whatever sort that is, that peace) which transcends all understanding, shall garrison and mount guard over your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.”
Philippians 4:6-7 Amplified Bible
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
In our lives and in our land.
Prayer is the solid ground
On which we build and where we stand.
Those within the place of prayer
Are sheltered from surprise and storm,
Keeping balance, finding rest,
Having peace God gives as norm.
Prayer brings us inner strength...
Endurance to meet daily test.
Prayer meets our lack and need
In times when we are sorely pressed.
Times of prayer bring steadiness...
So much needed every day,
Girding us with power and might
To meet whatever comes our way.
“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
“Do not fret or have any anxiety about anything, but in every circumstance and in everything by prayer and petition (definite requests) with thankgiving continue to make your wants known to God. And God’s peace (be yours, that tranquil state of a soul assured of its salvation through Christ, and so fearing nothing from God and content with its earthly lot of whatever sort that is, that peace) which transcends all understanding, shall garrison and mount guard over your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.”
Philippians 4:6-7 Amplified Bible
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Friday, August 09, 2013
Growing In Wisdom
Wisdom is gentle and full of good will,
Humble and peaceable, quiet and still.
It will not waver or be “pushed around”.
Wisdom well-learned with love will abound.
Wisdom is deep and rests in the heart.
Wisdom is careful and sets one apart.
It will not mix with confusion or strife,
For it cannot function where “upsets” are rife.
The beauty of wisdom, when it is in place,
Is expression of mercy, of kindness and grace.
Studying always its merits to learn
Will bring understanding and precious return.
“Who is there among you who is wise and intelligent? Then let him by his noble living show forth his (good) works with the (unobtrusive) humility (which is the proper attribute) of wisdom."
James 3:13 Amplified Bible
But the wisdom from above is first of all pure (undefiled); then it is peace-loving, courteous (considerate, gentle). (It is willing to) yield to reason, full of compassion and good fruits; it is whole-hearted and straightforward, impartial and unfeigned - free from doubts, wavering and insincerity.”
James 3:17 Amplified Bible
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Humble and peaceable, quiet and still.
It will not waver or be “pushed around”.
Wisdom well-learned with love will abound.
Wisdom is deep and rests in the heart.
Wisdom is careful and sets one apart.
It will not mix with confusion or strife,
For it cannot function where “upsets” are rife.
The beauty of wisdom, when it is in place,
Is expression of mercy, of kindness and grace.
Studying always its merits to learn
Will bring understanding and precious return.
“Who is there among you who is wise and intelligent? Then let him by his noble living show forth his (good) works with the (unobtrusive) humility (which is the proper attribute) of wisdom."
James 3:13 Amplified Bible
But the wisdom from above is first of all pure (undefiled); then it is peace-loving, courteous (considerate, gentle). (It is willing to) yield to reason, full of compassion and good fruits; it is whole-hearted and straightforward, impartial and unfeigned - free from doubts, wavering and insincerity.”
James 3:17 Amplified Bible
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Thursday, August 08, 2013
Sharing And Giving
Sow some “seed” in fertile soil.
Your gift will be as healing oil.
The Lord will multiply your gift,
Others’ lives to save or lift.
He will bless you in return
Whenever you show true concern.
Giving from a loving heart
New works of God will birth and start.
Giving is a guarantee
Which profits for eternity.
Give to those who are hard-pressed.
Give so others will be blessed.
“(Charge them) to do good, to be rich in good works, to be liberal and generous-hearted, ready to share (with others).”
I Timothy 6:18 Amplified Bible
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Your gift will be as healing oil.
The Lord will multiply your gift,
Others’ lives to save or lift.
He will bless you in return
Whenever you show true concern.
Giving from a loving heart
New works of God will birth and start.
Giving is a guarantee
Which profits for eternity.
Give to those who are hard-pressed.
Give so others will be blessed.
“(Charge them) to do good, to be rich in good works, to be liberal and generous-hearted, ready to share (with others).”
I Timothy 6:18 Amplified Bible
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Wednesday, August 07, 2013
Today Is A Gift
Yesterday is gone, and tomorrow is not yet.
Today is right before us with ideals to be met.
We can make the most of it or let it slip away,
But this day will not come again... it simply cannot stay.
Each day is a gift from God, and we can make it count
If we take a step or two His work for us to mount.
“Busyness” may not have worth but simply fill up time.
If we are in tune with God, every hour is prime.
We can change the world a bit... right here, right now, today,
By walking in God’s plan for us and taking time to pray.
We can live without regret that some days were a waste
If we’ve kept our eyes on Him and His goals have embraced.
“This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.”
Psalm 118:24 KJV
“See that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil.”
Ephesians 5:15-16 KJV
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Today is right before us with ideals to be met.
We can make the most of it or let it slip away,
But this day will not come again... it simply cannot stay.
Each day is a gift from God, and we can make it count
If we take a step or two His work for us to mount.
“Busyness” may not have worth but simply fill up time.
If we are in tune with God, every hour is prime.
We can change the world a bit... right here, right now, today,
By walking in God’s plan for us and taking time to pray.
We can live without regret that some days were a waste
If we’ve kept our eyes on Him and His goals have embraced.
“This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.”
Psalm 118:24 KJV
“See that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil.”
Ephesians 5:15-16 KJV
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Tuesday, August 06, 2013
Times Of Change
When the Lord causes change and opens a door
We may not know what He has in store.
We should expect that He knows what is best.
He will equip us to meet every “test”.
Hindsight will show us we did the right thing.
Until we have knowing, to Him we must cling.
But what better place than to walk hand-in-hand
With Him Who will lead us to where we should stand?
He knows our future and all of our need.
As we seek direction, He’ll help us proceed
And walk in His timing through each open door
With great expectation His “change” to explore.
“Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.”
Isaiah 26:3 KJV
“Shew me thy ways, O Lord; teach me thy paths.”
Psalm 25:4 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
We may not know what He has in store.
We should expect that He knows what is best.
He will equip us to meet every “test”.
Hindsight will show us we did the right thing.
Until we have knowing, to Him we must cling.
But what better place than to walk hand-in-hand
With Him Who will lead us to where we should stand?
He knows our future and all of our need.
As we seek direction, He’ll help us proceed
And walk in His timing through each open door
With great expectation His “change” to explore.
“Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.”
Isaiah 26:3 KJV
“Shew me thy ways, O Lord; teach me thy paths.”
Psalm 25:4 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Monday, August 05, 2013
Wings To Fly
I no longer wonder why
I could not fly up in the sky.
God has shown me over time
In Him I will have “wings” to fly.
I can rise with eagles’ wings
And mount up to a new-found high.
Lifted in the Spirit’s wind,
To our God I will dry nigh.
On mountain tops and hills I’ll rest,
For in my God I will believe.
As I excercise my “wings”
New heights in Him I will achieve.
“But those who wait for the Lord - who expect, look for and hope in Him - shall change and renew their strength and power; they shall lift their wings and mount up (close to God) as eagles (mount up to the sun); they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint or become tired.”
Isaiah 40:31 Amplified Bible
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
I could not fly up in the sky.
God has shown me over time
In Him I will have “wings” to fly.
I can rise with eagles’ wings
And mount up to a new-found high.
Lifted in the Spirit’s wind,
To our God I will dry nigh.
On mountain tops and hills I’ll rest,
For in my God I will believe.
As I excercise my “wings”
New heights in Him I will achieve.
“But those who wait for the Lord - who expect, look for and hope in Him - shall change and renew their strength and power; they shall lift their wings and mount up (close to God) as eagles (mount up to the sun); they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint or become tired.”
Isaiah 40:31 Amplified Bible
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sunday, August 04, 2013
Hands Of Healing
Anyone who ever knew my mom would probably say that she was a very giving person. She always had compassion for those who were hurting or had need.
In one of her jobs she had a co-worker named Louise who became ill. Louise could no longer work because she had developed bone cancer. Mom learned that Louise was in the hospital in a lot of pain, so she went to see her. Louise’s pain was such that she couldn’t stand even the weight of a sheet over her body.
I do not know what Mom shared with her, but while she was there she prayed for Louise.
We later learned that Louise only lived another three days after Mom visited her, but she was totally pain-free from the time Mom prayed for her.
Mom had a giving heart and helped many.
“She stretcheth out her hand to the poor: yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy.:”
Proverbs 31:20 KJV
© 2012 Ar;ene Schwartzkopf
In one of her jobs she had a co-worker named Louise who became ill. Louise could no longer work because she had developed bone cancer. Mom learned that Louise was in the hospital in a lot of pain, so she went to see her. Louise’s pain was such that she couldn’t stand even the weight of a sheet over her body.
I do not know what Mom shared with her, but while she was there she prayed for Louise.
We later learned that Louise only lived another three days after Mom visited her, but she was totally pain-free from the time Mom prayed for her.
Mom had a giving heart and helped many.
“She stretcheth out her hand to the poor: yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy.:”
Proverbs 31:20 KJV
© 2012 Ar;ene Schwartzkopf
Saturday, August 03, 2013
Discerning Truth
In the news we have high cost,
For many truths are getting lost.
We must study and discern
If today the truth we’ll learn.
Even though men the truth would alter,
When we know truth, we will not falter.
Discernment leads us to truth’s keys,
For God will show us falsities.
When matched against the Word of God
The news today is sinking sod.
Truth and lies cannot be blended.
Truth just cannot be “amended”.
“Righteousness exalteth a nation...”
Proverbs 14:34 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
For many truths are getting lost.
We must study and discern
If today the truth we’ll learn.
Even though men the truth would alter,
When we know truth, we will not falter.
Discernment leads us to truth’s keys,
For God will show us falsities.
When matched against the Word of God
The news today is sinking sod.
Truth and lies cannot be blended.
Truth just cannot be “amended”.
“Righteousness exalteth a nation...”
Proverbs 14:34 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Friday, August 02, 2013
Blessed Are The Caregivers
Blessed are the caregivers...
Who pour out their lives in service to others,
Children or family, fathers or mothers,
Who work overtime and often miss sleep,
Whose love and compassion are heartfelt and deep.
The work of their hands is Christ’s love expressed.
They do not complain when they need some rest.
They will not flee nor fail in their caring.
They know Jesus shares the weight they are bearing.
They need our prayers, their work to complete,
For caregiving is a difficult feat.
As they give of self, their lives are a story
Of loving and serving which brings God much glory!
“Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.”
John 15:13 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Who pour out their lives in service to others,
Children or family, fathers or mothers,
Who work overtime and often miss sleep,
Whose love and compassion are heartfelt and deep.
The work of their hands is Christ’s love expressed.
They do not complain when they need some rest.
They will not flee nor fail in their caring.
They know Jesus shares the weight they are bearing.
They need our prayers, their work to complete,
For caregiving is a difficult feat.
As they give of self, their lives are a story
Of loving and serving which brings God much glory!
“Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.”
John 15:13 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Thursday, August 01, 2013
Our God Is Greater
The enemy wants to silence the voice
Of those who love God and in Him rejoice.
When he rises up and tries to make trouble,
Our praises to God will rise and be double!
We can “out-talk” him through worship and prayer.
God’s power and majesty we will declare.
He is a God of power and might.
No enemy ploy can douse His great light.
God is our fortress... His truth will be known.
He is our refuge... we are not alone.
He is our strength... in Him we rejoice.
To Him we bring glory... we raise up our voice!
“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
“Little children, you are of God - you belong to Him - and have (already) defeated and overcome them (the agents of antichrist). because He Who lives in you is greater (mightier) than he who is in the world.”
I John 4:4 Amplified Bible
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Of those who love God and in Him rejoice.
When he rises up and tries to make trouble,
Our praises to God will rise and be double!
We can “out-talk” him through worship and prayer.
God’s power and majesty we will declare.
He is a God of power and might.
No enemy ploy can douse His great light.
God is our fortress... His truth will be known.
He is our refuge... we are not alone.
He is our strength... in Him we rejoice.
To Him we bring glory... we raise up our voice!
“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
“Little children, you are of God - you belong to Him - and have (already) defeated and overcome them (the agents of antichrist). because He Who lives in you is greater (mightier) than he who is in the world.”
I John 4:4 Amplified Bible
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
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