Honor the Lord and show Him respect.
Pause to bow down and on Him reflect.
Remember His goodness, offer up praise.
Heartfelt thanksgiving to Him we should raise.
Honor the Lord, know He is holy.
He looks on the humble, those who are lowly.
When we seek God and quietly wait,
Then we will know His power is great.
As we walk humbly with reverence and awe,
And from unholiness choose to withdraw,
He will defend us and cover our way.
He will provide all our need day-to-day.
“The Angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear Him (who revere and worship Him with awe) and each of them He delivers. O taste and see that the Lord (our God) is good! Blessed (happy, fortunate, to be envied) is the man who trusts and takes refuge in Him. O fear the Lord, you His saints (revere and worship Him)! For there is no want to those who truly revere and worship Him with godly fear.”
Psalm 34:7-9 Amplified Bible
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Thursday, July 31, 2014
Wednesday, July 30, 2014
Possibility In Christ
In Christ is possibility.
You’re unencumbered and set free
To reach a goal or win a race
And all His blessings to embrace.
He gives gifts and He gives skills
To mount the very highest “hills”.
In all things in Him believe.
When you trust, you will receive.
You’ll find strength and you’ll have grace
Every circumstance to face.
Whatever challenge comes your way
In Christ you will not go astray.
“Now in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.”
Romans 8:37 KJV
“I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.”
Philippians 4:13 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
You’re unencumbered and set free
To reach a goal or win a race
And all His blessings to embrace.
He gives gifts and He gives skills
To mount the very highest “hills”.
In all things in Him believe.
When you trust, you will receive.
You’ll find strength and you’ll have grace
Every circumstance to face.
Whatever challenge comes your way
In Christ you will not go astray.
“Now in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.”
Romans 8:37 KJV
“I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.”
Philippians 4:13 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Tuesday, July 29, 2014
A Safe Journey
Is Jesus resting in your “boat”?
Or do you set out all alone,
Seeking new adventure
On a path you have not known...
Trusting you will stay afloat
And hoping you will be okay.
But undertow and currents
May be in an unknown way...
Causing you to get off course,
Not knowing how you can get back,
Facing perils much too great
Because of wisdom you had lack.
If the Lord is in your boat
You will not be in distress.
And you will not be all alone.
All your needs He will address.
Let Him steer your boat for you.
Then your journey will be right.
He will take you through safe waters,
Saving you from needless plight.
“When they had rowed three or four miles, they saw Jesus walking on the sea and approaching the boat. And they were afraid (terrified). But Jesus said to them, It is I: be not afraid! (I AM; stop being frightened!) Then they were quite willing and glad for Him to come into the boat. And now the boat went at once to the land they had steered toward. (And immediately they reached the shore toward which they had been slowly making their way.)”
John 6:19-21 Amplified Bible
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Or do you set out all alone,
Seeking new adventure
On a path you have not known...
Trusting you will stay afloat
And hoping you will be okay.
But undertow and currents
May be in an unknown way...
Causing you to get off course,
Not knowing how you can get back,
Facing perils much too great
Because of wisdom you had lack.
If the Lord is in your boat
You will not be in distress.
And you will not be all alone.
All your needs He will address.
Let Him steer your boat for you.
Then your journey will be right.
He will take you through safe waters,
Saving you from needless plight.
“When they had rowed three or four miles, they saw Jesus walking on the sea and approaching the boat. And they were afraid (terrified). But Jesus said to them, It is I: be not afraid! (I AM; stop being frightened!) Then they were quite willing and glad for Him to come into the boat. And now the boat went at once to the land they had steered toward. (And immediately they reached the shore toward which they had been slowly making their way.)”
John 6:19-21 Amplified Bible
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Monday, July 28, 2014
Good Will Heals
When we reach out with good will
Defensiveness will then be “still”,
For good will is a soothing balm
And causes others to be calm.
Good will has a gentle touch
Which can heal and redeem much.
It bridges over brokenness
And warmly promotes openness.
It is like a pleasant breeze
Which causes all to be at ease.
When we choose to show good will
We’ll find it conquers many-an-ill.
“There be many that say, Who will shew us any good? Lord, lift thou up the light of thy countenance upon us.”
Psalm 4:6 KJV
“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.”
Matthew 5:16 KJV
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Defensiveness will then be “still”,
For good will is a soothing balm
And causes others to be calm.
Good will has a gentle touch
Which can heal and redeem much.
It bridges over brokenness
And warmly promotes openness.
It is like a pleasant breeze
Which causes all to be at ease.
When we choose to show good will
We’ll find it conquers many-an-ill.
“There be many that say, Who will shew us any good? Lord, lift thou up the light of thy countenance upon us.”
Psalm 4:6 KJV
“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.”
Matthew 5:16 KJV
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sunday, July 27, 2014
Lessons We Learn
Best lessons in life are the ones that will stretch us,
But stretching is hard, so we groan and we fuss.
Sometimes we wonder why things are so hard,
But what we are learning we can’t disregard.
Endurance is good and patience will follow,
If in self-pity we don’t sit and wallow.
Ego and pride may have to move over,
For some of our lessons are not “beds of clover”.
If we “push through”, just think what we’ve learned.
Through stretching, much wisdom and grit we have earned.
We should not question the hurdles we face
But learn all we can through God’s precious grace.
“And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness.”
II Corinthians 12:9 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
But stretching is hard, so we groan and we fuss.
Sometimes we wonder why things are so hard,
But what we are learning we can’t disregard.
Endurance is good and patience will follow,
If in self-pity we don’t sit and wallow.
Ego and pride may have to move over,
For some of our lessons are not “beds of clover”.
If we “push through”, just think what we’ve learned.
Through stretching, much wisdom and grit we have earned.
We should not question the hurdles we face
But learn all we can through God’s precious grace.
“And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness.”
II Corinthians 12:9 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Saturday, July 26, 2014
The Tapestry Of Life
The tapestry of life is made up of many threads and colors..... We cannot even imagine how the Lord will use His threads and colors to create beauty in each individual life.
We can see only part of God’s design for us, but He can see the finished work. We cannot do the weaving, lest our threads become tangled or broken. We must let Him work “unhindered” so that we do not alter or spoil what He intended our tapestry to be. His threads and colors will be intricately woven into our lives to create a unique design.
We should rejoice in His patience with us in those times when we are tempted to “help” Him, or in those times when we’re not “still” (listening) as He is at work. We do not want to be “off doing something else” as He is waiting to add new colors or threads over time. His weaving process will always continue, for we are His works in progress.
He is the Master Weaver, and He blesses us all the days of our lives. Our God is so faithful.
“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
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
We can see only part of God’s design for us, but He can see the finished work. We cannot do the weaving, lest our threads become tangled or broken. We must let Him work “unhindered” so that we do not alter or spoil what He intended our tapestry to be. His threads and colors will be intricately woven into our lives to create a unique design.
We should rejoice in His patience with us in those times when we are tempted to “help” Him, or in those times when we’re not “still” (listening) as He is at work. We do not want to be “off doing something else” as He is waiting to add new colors or threads over time. His weaving process will always continue, for we are His works in progress.
He is the Master Weaver, and He blesses us all the days of our lives. Our God is so faithful.
“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
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Friday, July 25, 2014
A Full Cup
We want all the seasons of life to be merry,
But if there should be a “cross” we must carry,
We can find strength and joy in the Lord.
When we lean on Him He brings rich reward.
We’re not alone in life’s many “seasons”,
And when a “cross” happens may not know the reasons.
But if we reach down in the depths of our heart
We’ll know God is with us, His strength to impart.
We then can rise up and carry our cross.
The insight we gain will offset the “cost”.
Some part of “self” for the cross we give up,
But during these times God “refills” our cup.
“I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.”
Philippians 4:13 KJV
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
But if there should be a “cross” we must carry,
We can find strength and joy in the Lord.
When we lean on Him He brings rich reward.
We’re not alone in life’s many “seasons”,
And when a “cross” happens may not know the reasons.
But if we reach down in the depths of our heart
We’ll know God is with us, His strength to impart.
We then can rise up and carry our cross.
The insight we gain will offset the “cost”.
Some part of “self” for the cross we give up,
But during these times God “refills” our cup.
“I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.”
Philippians 4:13 KJV
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Thursday, July 24, 2014
An Open Line
I know to whom I want to talk
When I make a telephone call,
Then I’m offered “menu options”.
I tire of listening to them all!
If the menus weren’t so long
The call I’m making would be short.
Sometimes I will just hang up.
Menus all my patience thwart.
Then I call upon the Lord
To help me make this simple call.
He always has an open line
To hear my prayers, however small.
He will help me to be patient.
With this daily irritation.
When I hear a lengthy menu,
He brings peace for my frustration.
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
When I make a telephone call,
Then I’m offered “menu options”.
I tire of listening to them all!
If the menus weren’t so long
The call I’m making would be short.
Sometimes I will just hang up.
Menus all my patience thwart.
Then I call upon the Lord
To help me make this simple call.
He always has an open line
To hear my prayers, however small.
He will help me to be patient.
With this daily irritation.
When I hear a lengthy menu,
He brings peace for my frustration.
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Wednesday, July 23, 2014
Complete In Him
In the Lord I am complete.
I shall not want, nor have defeat.
In Him I can have confidence
And master goals of consequence.
If I sometimes am not “able”
He is there to keep me stable.
If I think I “am not ready”
He will make me “fixed” and steady.
He is strength when I am weak.
He gives joy when things look bleak.
In times which are a little rough
His grace is much more than enough.
If in me I may have “lack”
Or hesitate and then draw back...
I can still be sure of foot
Because in Him I find strong root.
“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.”
Psalm 23:1 KJV
“And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness.”
II Corinthians 12:9 KJV
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
I shall not want, nor have defeat.
In Him I can have confidence
And master goals of consequence.
If I sometimes am not “able”
He is there to keep me stable.
If I think I “am not ready”
He will make me “fixed” and steady.
He is strength when I am weak.
He gives joy when things look bleak.
In times which are a little rough
His grace is much more than enough.
If in me I may have “lack”
Or hesitate and then draw back...
I can still be sure of foot
Because in Him I find strong root.
“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.”
Psalm 23:1 KJV
“And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness.”
II Corinthians 12:9 KJV
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Tuesday, July 22, 2014
The Best Pathway
God’s Word is a pathway to meaning and joy
With much useful wisdom which we can employ.
We can find balance and light for each day...
Good anchor to keep us from going astray.
We’ll find direction for all we begin
And be aimed as arrows, great distance to win,
Causing each day to have promise and worth
And to creativity giving new birth.
God gives us “riches” when we read the Word.
Fresh possibility is “seeded” and stirred.
We can rise up with gladness each day
If the Word is the pathway on which we will stay.
“Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.”
Psalm 119:105 KJV
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
With much useful wisdom which we can employ.
We can find balance and light for each day...
Good anchor to keep us from going astray.
We’ll find direction for all we begin
And be aimed as arrows, great distance to win,
Causing each day to have promise and worth
And to creativity giving new birth.
God gives us “riches” when we read the Word.
Fresh possibility is “seeded” and stirred.
We can rise up with gladness each day
If the Word is the pathway on which we will stay.
“Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.”
Psalm 119:105 KJV
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Monday, July 21, 2014
Trails Of Blessing
What kind of “trail” do you leave behind?
When you’ve passed through, will others then find
That nothing has changed right down “to the letter”?
Or will your own imprint have made things much better?
We have a choice in the trail we leave.
Our goal should be blessings for folks to receive.
Something good happens when we think ahead...
Our very best blessings to share and to spread.
Each time we make effort, our trail to improve,
We’ll inspire others to similarly move.
Our trail will bring challenge as others look on
And will be remembered long after we’ve gone.
“And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.”
Colossians 3:17 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
When you’ve passed through, will others then find
That nothing has changed right down “to the letter”?
Or will your own imprint have made things much better?
We have a choice in the trail we leave.
Our goal should be blessings for folks to receive.
Something good happens when we think ahead...
Our very best blessings to share and to spread.
Each time we make effort, our trail to improve,
We’ll inspire others to similarly move.
Our trail will bring challenge as others look on
And will be remembered long after we’ve gone.
“And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.”
Colossians 3:17 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sunday, July 20, 2014
Love Covers
Love is kind and always “covers”
With sensitivity it hovers.
Love protects from careless words
And from the heart it undergirds.
Gossip “tills” and plants bad seed.
Its seeds will multiply like weeds,
Ruining someone’s reputation,
Without regret or hesitation.
Gossip offers no respect,
To love and caring shows neglect.
It becomes a burning flame,
Spreading “news”, but hard to tame.
Love will cover and be kind,
To gossip never is inclined.
Don’t let gossip start to grow.
Let love and caring overflow.
“He who covers and forgives an offense seeks love, but he who repeats or harps on a matter separates even close friends.”
Proverbs 17:9 Amplified Bible
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
With sensitivity it hovers.
Love protects from careless words
And from the heart it undergirds.
Gossip “tills” and plants bad seed.
Its seeds will multiply like weeds,
Ruining someone’s reputation,
Without regret or hesitation.
Gossip offers no respect,
To love and caring shows neglect.
It becomes a burning flame,
Spreading “news”, but hard to tame.
Love will cover and be kind,
To gossip never is inclined.
Don’t let gossip start to grow.
Let love and caring overflow.
“He who covers and forgives an offense seeks love, but he who repeats or harps on a matter separates even close friends.”
Proverbs 17:9 Amplified Bible
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Thursday, July 17, 2014
A Perfect Niche
When God has a plan for us
It’s wise to listen and obey.
We can cause ourselves much pain
If we walk another way.
God will let us make our choice,
But what a tangled web we weave.
Until we realize our error
His blessings we may not receive.
What we choose may not be bad,
But God’s plan is the very best.
Our time is wasted... maybe years...
And sometimes we become hard-pressed.
When we turn and follow God
We will find our perfect niche.
In His plan we’ll be fulfilled
And then our lives will be made rich.
“Shew me thy ways, O Lord; teach me thy paths. Lead me in thy truth, and teach me: for thou art the God of my salvation; on thee do I wait all the day.”
Psalm 25:4-5 KJV
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
It’s wise to listen and obey.
We can cause ourselves much pain
If we walk another way.
God will let us make our choice,
But what a tangled web we weave.
Until we realize our error
His blessings we may not receive.
What we choose may not be bad,
But God’s plan is the very best.
Our time is wasted... maybe years...
And sometimes we become hard-pressed.
When we turn and follow God
We will find our perfect niche.
In His plan we’ll be fulfilled
And then our lives will be made rich.
“Shew me thy ways, O Lord; teach me thy paths. Lead me in thy truth, and teach me: for thou art the God of my salvation; on thee do I wait all the day.”
Psalm 25:4-5 KJV
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Wednesday, July 16, 2014
God Is With Us
When sometimes I feel that I’m all alone,
I’ll recount my blessings and care God has shown.
So many times I did not feel strong,
But in hindsight I know that I was just wrong.
God was right with me, spilling out grace,
Offering love, my fears to erase.
When I had need He always was there.
He helped me carry what I could not bear.
Our God is faithful, His mercy to show.
He is here with me... this truth I know.
I must remember I’m not all alone.
I will rejoice in the love He has shown.
“Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits.”
Psalm 103:2 KJV
“It is of the Lord’s mercies that we are not consumed,because his compassions fail not. They are newevery morning: great is thy faithfulness.”
Lamentations 3:22-23 KJV
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
I’ll recount my blessings and care God has shown.
So many times I did not feel strong,
But in hindsight I know that I was just wrong.
God was right with me, spilling out grace,
Offering love, my fears to erase.
When I had need He always was there.
He helped me carry what I could not bear.
Our God is faithful, His mercy to show.
He is here with me... this truth I know.
I must remember I’m not all alone.
I will rejoice in the love He has shown.
“Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits.”
Psalm 103:2 KJV
“It is of the Lord’s mercies that we are not consumed,because his compassions fail not. They are newevery morning: great is thy faithfulness.”
Lamentations 3:22-23 KJV
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Tuesday, July 15, 2014
You Are Special
Did you know you are different from everyone else...
You are quite special and one-of-a-kind.
God is creative and gave you much thought.
The plan for your life by Him was hand-signed.
You are important... in Him you have worth.
You have His “imprint”, which no one can take.
The giftings He gave you are rich and unique.
Never forget this when choices you make.
Rejoice in His goodness. Look up and be glad!
When you were born God gave you His best!
In Him is promise and “wealth” to excel.
Know that in Him you will be very blessed.
“Know ye that the Lord he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves...”
Psalm 100:3 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
You are quite special and one-of-a-kind.
God is creative and gave you much thought.
The plan for your life by Him was hand-signed.
You are important... in Him you have worth.
You have His “imprint”, which no one can take.
The giftings He gave you are rich and unique.
Never forget this when choices you make.
Rejoice in His goodness. Look up and be glad!
When you were born God gave you His best!
In Him is promise and “wealth” to excel.
Know that in Him you will be very blessed.
“Know ye that the Lord he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves...”
Psalm 100:3 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Monday, July 14, 2014
Long-Range Vision
How far can you see? Is your vision long-range? Is your focus on something near, or is your vision trained to see far?
My 14-year-old grandson loves to play disc golf. (A disc is similar to a frisbee, and the game involves trying to land the disc in a basket on a pole some distance away). There are a series of baskets, similar to a golf course.
He wanted to show me how he could throw a disc, so we visited a school playground with lots of space. I was dumbfounded when I saw him throw that first disc. It sailed on and on into the distance before it landed. (My son guessed the distance to be 200-250 feet). We could barely see where it landed.
He is able to focus on a distant target and, by practice, has accuracy and skill to hit his target. What a valuable life skill he is learning here!
When he is on a disc golf course he chooses which disc to use, and he plans his “move” carefully. Those who have observed him have remarked, “He really has it figured out”.
What really struck me is this: How many folks (and especially young people) have “distance” vision and plan carefully enough in life to reach a targeted goal? How many expend the effort and work diligently to reach that goal?
Accurate long-range vision will help all of us reach our desired destination.
“Lean on, trust in, and be confident in the Lord with all your heart and mind and do not rely on your own insight or understanding. In all your ways know, recognize, and acknowledge Him, and He will direst and make straight and plain your paths.”
Proverbs 3:5 Amplified Bible
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
My 14-year-old grandson loves to play disc golf. (A disc is similar to a frisbee, and the game involves trying to land the disc in a basket on a pole some distance away). There are a series of baskets, similar to a golf course.
He wanted to show me how he could throw a disc, so we visited a school playground with lots of space. I was dumbfounded when I saw him throw that first disc. It sailed on and on into the distance before it landed. (My son guessed the distance to be 200-250 feet). We could barely see where it landed.
He is able to focus on a distant target and, by practice, has accuracy and skill to hit his target. What a valuable life skill he is learning here!
When he is on a disc golf course he chooses which disc to use, and he plans his “move” carefully. Those who have observed him have remarked, “He really has it figured out”.
What really struck me is this: How many folks (and especially young people) have “distance” vision and plan carefully enough in life to reach a targeted goal? How many expend the effort and work diligently to reach that goal?
Accurate long-range vision will help all of us reach our desired destination.
“Lean on, trust in, and be confident in the Lord with all your heart and mind and do not rely on your own insight or understanding. In all your ways know, recognize, and acknowledge Him, and He will direst and make straight and plain your paths.”
Proverbs 3:5 Amplified Bible
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sunday, July 13, 2014
God's Gift Of Beauty
Are you contented with simple things..
Like the sweet, warbling song a little bird sings?
Blossoms with dewdrops which sparkle and shine?
A butterfly visiting flowers on a vine?
The beauty around us is more than enough,
Just so much better than “pile-up” of stuff.
Our “view” can get clogged so we simply don’t see
The beauty God gives us... so rich and yet free.
Take time to pause... linger and look.
God’s beauty is written as a lovely book.
The beauty He gives us we just cannot measure.
All that He gives is a very rich treasure.
“Because thy lovingkindness is better than life, my lips shall praise thee. Thus will I bless thee while I live: I will lift up my hands in thy name.”
Psalm 63:3-4 KJV
“But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.”
I Timothy 6:6 KJV
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Like the sweet, warbling song a little bird sings?
Blossoms with dewdrops which sparkle and shine?
A butterfly visiting flowers on a vine?
The beauty around us is more than enough,
Just so much better than “pile-up” of stuff.
Our “view” can get clogged so we simply don’t see
The beauty God gives us... so rich and yet free.
Take time to pause... linger and look.
God’s beauty is written as a lovely book.
The beauty He gives us we just cannot measure.
All that He gives is a very rich treasure.
“Because thy lovingkindness is better than life, my lips shall praise thee. Thus will I bless thee while I live: I will lift up my hands in thy name.”
Psalm 63:3-4 KJV
“But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.”
I Timothy 6:6 KJV
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Saturday, July 12, 2014
Read The Instructions
How many times have we heard these words,
“When all else fails, read the instructions.”
Usually this will be after the fact
When we’ve already tried our own weak deductions.
We should not get in too much of a hurry,
But just stop and read the instructions first.
Then we won’t get in a dither or flurry.
All our frustrations would then be reversed!
We should be willing to listen and learn.
It’s always wise to heed good advice
Think how much effort and time we could save.
So we would not have to do some things twice!
“Take fast hold of instruction; let her not go: keep her; for she is thy life.”
Proverbs 4:13 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
“When all else fails, read the instructions.”
Usually this will be after the fact
When we’ve already tried our own weak deductions.
We should not get in too much of a hurry,
But just stop and read the instructions first.
Then we won’t get in a dither or flurry.
All our frustrations would then be reversed!
We should be willing to listen and learn.
It’s always wise to heed good advice
Think how much effort and time we could save.
So we would not have to do some things twice!
“Take fast hold of instruction; let her not go: keep her; for she is thy life.”
Proverbs 4:13 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Friday, July 11, 2014
Chaff In The Wind
Is the substance of our lives
Made up of wheat, or is there chaff?
Would we be free of worthless “husks”
Which make our substance half-and-half?
If we ask God to heal and cleanse us
By His Holy Spirit “wind”,
To show us how much chaff we have,
We probably would be chagrined.
For daily life is full of chaff
We should not want and do not need.
But when God’s Spirit cleanses us
We will be worthy and be freed.
Blow on us today, O God,
And by the power of Your wind
Remove from us all worthless chaff
And our unworthiness rescind.
“Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.”
I John 3:2-3 KJV
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Made up of wheat, or is there chaff?
Would we be free of worthless “husks”
Which make our substance half-and-half?
If we ask God to heal and cleanse us
By His Holy Spirit “wind”,
To show us how much chaff we have,
We probably would be chagrined.
For daily life is full of chaff
We should not want and do not need.
But when God’s Spirit cleanses us
We will be worthy and be freed.
Blow on us today, O God,
And by the power of Your wind
Remove from us all worthless chaff
And our unworthiness rescind.
“Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.”
I John 3:2-3 KJV
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Thursday, July 10, 2014
Refreshing
In the stillness of the morn,
Lord, I long to hear Your voice.
When I hear that gentle sound
You cause my spirit to rejoice.
Your presence is a sweet oasis,
Set apart and so profound,
A place of peace and deep retreat
Where perfect love and joy abound.
Stir within My heart, O Lord.
Let me be refreshed in You.
Change me deep within, I pray,
My heart and spirit to renew.
You make me to be “complete”
As I choose to wait on You.
You’re my joy and inspiration.
You give me a fresh new view.
“Shew me thy ways, O Lord; teach me thy paths. Lead me in thy truth, and teach me: for thou art the God of my salvation; on thee do I wait all the day.”
Psalm 25:4-5 KJV
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Lord, I long to hear Your voice.
When I hear that gentle sound
You cause my spirit to rejoice.
Your presence is a sweet oasis,
Set apart and so profound,
A place of peace and deep retreat
Where perfect love and joy abound.
Stir within My heart, O Lord.
Let me be refreshed in You.
Change me deep within, I pray,
My heart and spirit to renew.
You make me to be “complete”
As I choose to wait on You.
You’re my joy and inspiration.
You give me a fresh new view.
“Shew me thy ways, O Lord; teach me thy paths. Lead me in thy truth, and teach me: for thou art the God of my salvation; on thee do I wait all the day.”
Psalm 25:4-5 KJV
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Wednesday, July 09, 2014
Enthusiasm
Enthusiasm “lights a fire”
And helps us work toward our desire.
Zeal and fervor energize
And point us toward goals of great size.
Laziness will hold us back
Because our attitudes are slack.
Procrastination slows us down,
So when we fall behind, we frown.
Attitudes are ours to choose,
And good ones light our future’s fuse.
It’s best to never lag behind
Because to work we’re not inclined.
Opportunity will knock.
Attitudes good choice could block.
Let enthusiasm rule.
It often is our strongest tool!
“For the joy of the Lord is your strength.”
Nehemiah 8:10 KJV
“He becomes poor who works with a slack and idle hand, but the hand of the diligent makes rich.”
Proverbs 10:4 Amplified Bible
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
And helps us work toward our desire.
Zeal and fervor energize
And point us toward goals of great size.
Laziness will hold us back
Because our attitudes are slack.
Procrastination slows us down,
So when we fall behind, we frown.
Attitudes are ours to choose,
And good ones light our future’s fuse.
It’s best to never lag behind
Because to work we’re not inclined.
Opportunity will knock.
Attitudes good choice could block.
Let enthusiasm rule.
It often is our strongest tool!
“For the joy of the Lord is your strength.”
Nehemiah 8:10 KJV
“He becomes poor who works with a slack and idle hand, but the hand of the diligent makes rich.”
Proverbs 10:4 Amplified Bible
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Tuesday, July 08, 2014
Retrospect
Events which happen shape our lives,
And sometimes we will make a fuss.
Things which get us “off our course”
We think may not be a “plus”.
Until experience helps us grow
The gold within us will not shine.
Overcoming obstacles
Our inner beauty will define.
Challenges will “polish” us.
We’ll learn what really does have worth.
Rough edges soften and give way
And to gentleness give birth.
Inner beauty grows o’er time.
It doesn’t happen overnight.
Slowly as we live each day
The gold within us will shine bright.
In retrospect we’ll praise our God
For it is He who brought us through.
He has shown us what is pure
And given us His overview.
“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
“And set your minds and keep them set on what is above (the higher things), not on the things that are on the earth.”
Colossians 3:2 Amplified Bible
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
And sometimes we will make a fuss.
Things which get us “off our course”
We think may not be a “plus”.
Until experience helps us grow
The gold within us will not shine.
Overcoming obstacles
Our inner beauty will define.
Challenges will “polish” us.
We’ll learn what really does have worth.
Rough edges soften and give way
And to gentleness give birth.
Inner beauty grows o’er time.
It doesn’t happen overnight.
Slowly as we live each day
The gold within us will shine bright.
In retrospect we’ll praise our God
For it is He who brought us through.
He has shown us what is pure
And given us His overview.
“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
“And set your minds and keep them set on what is above (the higher things), not on the things that are on the earth.”
Colossians 3:2 Amplified Bible
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Monday, July 07, 2014
Take No Chances
Taking changes is not wise.
All wisdom it could jeopardize.
Why trade value for a whim?
The end result could be quite grim.
Wisdom is a wealthy “store”
Which we can’t easily ignore.
Its merit we should never scatter
On a chance which may not matter.
Chances are a real temptation
And probably will bring frustration.
Let common sense and wisdom rule
Rather than become a fool.
“The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but he who listens to counsel is wise.”
Proverbs 12:15 Amplified Bible
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
All wisdom it could jeopardize.
Why trade value for a whim?
The end result could be quite grim.
Wisdom is a wealthy “store”
Which we can’t easily ignore.
Its merit we should never scatter
On a chance which may not matter.
Chances are a real temptation
And probably will bring frustration.
Let common sense and wisdom rule
Rather than become a fool.
“The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but he who listens to counsel is wise.”
Proverbs 12:15 Amplified Bible
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sunday, July 06, 2014
Times Of Rest
Is your life so busy that you are just caught up in the rush of it and, little by little, some very important things are getting lost in the shuffle? You can only “run” fast so long, and then something needs to change.
If you are too busy for long periods of time, after while you may find that a whole part of your life has gone by and you may not have done some of the things you really wanted to do. Do you take pauses to refresh and reflect on where you are in life? Do you have unfulfilled dreams? Do you still take time to reconsider the course you are on?
Consider the seasons of your life. Make room for fulfillment of something you love in each season so that you don’t lose out on doing something which is a deep desire of your heart.
It is important to say, “Time out for me... time to rest, time to think, time to dream”. In this you’ll find balance. You won’t feel like life is slipping away from you too fast.
“It is vain for you to rise up early, to take rest late, to eat the bread of (anxious) toil - for He gives (blessings) to His beloved in sleep.”
Psalm 127:2 Amplified Bible
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
If you are too busy for long periods of time, after while you may find that a whole part of your life has gone by and you may not have done some of the things you really wanted to do. Do you take pauses to refresh and reflect on where you are in life? Do you have unfulfilled dreams? Do you still take time to reconsider the course you are on?
Consider the seasons of your life. Make room for fulfillment of something you love in each season so that you don’t lose out on doing something which is a deep desire of your heart.
It is important to say, “Time out for me... time to rest, time to think, time to dream”. In this you’ll find balance. You won’t feel like life is slipping away from you too fast.
“It is vain for you to rise up early, to take rest late, to eat the bread of (anxious) toil - for He gives (blessings) to His beloved in sleep.”
Psalm 127:2 Amplified Bible
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Saturday, July 05, 2014
More Then I Can Be
Some things I’m not sure I can do.
Then God gives me a “talking-to”.
He shows me I must stretch a bit,
To have more faith and show some grit.
If I trust, He’ll give me skill.
I cannot balk or just sit still.
This is how He helps me grow.
With Him I’m able... this I know.
In Him I can be confident
And all my “worries” circumvent.
He sees potential I don’t see
And makes me more than I can be.
“And I am convinced and sure of this very thing, that He Who began a good work in you will continue until the day of Jesus Christ (right up to the time of His return), developing (that good work) and perfecting and bringing it to full completion in you.”
Philippians 1:6 Amplified Bible
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Then God gives me a “talking-to”.
He shows me I must stretch a bit,
To have more faith and show some grit.
If I trust, He’ll give me skill.
I cannot balk or just sit still.
This is how He helps me grow.
With Him I’m able... this I know.
In Him I can be confident
And all my “worries” circumvent.
He sees potential I don’t see
And makes me more than I can be.
“And I am convinced and sure of this very thing, that He Who began a good work in you will continue until the day of Jesus Christ (right up to the time of His return), developing (that good work) and perfecting and bringing it to full completion in you.”
Philippians 1:6 Amplified Bible
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Friday, July 04, 2014
Celebrate!
Celebrate our country’s freedom!
Never let its truths be lost!
In our hearts and memories
Let its tenets be embossed!
By God’s blessing we have prospered.
By His hand we have survived.
Through much prayer and faith in Him
We’ve been safe, we have thrived.
Remember where our great strength lies
And Who it is that made us great.
Blessings, freedom, peace and joy
Are reasons we should celebrate!
“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
Never let its truths be lost!
In our hearts and memories
Let its tenets be embossed!
By God’s blessing we have prospered.
By His hand we have survived.
Through much prayer and faith in Him
We’ve been safe, we have thrived.
Remember where our great strength lies
And Who it is that made us great.
Blessings, freedom, peace and joy
Are reasons we should celebrate!
“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
Thursday, July 03, 2014
God Can!
When hindrances are in the way
This is what we ought to say,
“My God has a better plan.
If I’m not able, my God can!”
I will rest in knowing this:
Whenever something is amiss,
He will guard and shelter me,
Keep me safe and set me free!
There are things we cannot change
Which only God can rearrange.
He is always at our side,
All hindrances to override.
“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
“He shall call upon Me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble. I will deliver him and honor him.”
Psalm 91:15 Amplified Bible
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
This is what we ought to say,
“My God has a better plan.
If I’m not able, my God can!”
I will rest in knowing this:
Whenever something is amiss,
He will guard and shelter me,
Keep me safe and set me free!
There are things we cannot change
Which only God can rearrange.
He is always at our side,
All hindrances to override.
“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
“He shall call upon Me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble. I will deliver him and honor him.”
Psalm 91:15 Amplified Bible
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Wednesday, July 02, 2014
A Strong Ship
The times we are in are as uncharted waters. Does your “ship of life” have a strong rudder to steer through times of wind and storm, to turn your ship away from rocky areas and to keep you in safe channels? We must be skilled, even as a ship’s captain, to navigate what may be unknown in the days to come.
The captain knows that if the ship’s rudder isn’t strong the ship could be blown off course or be endangered. And he must be focused in overseeing the readiness of his ship.
In life, the “ship” may represent spiritual matters, home, family, marriage, finance... any or all of the above. Now is the time to review how ready your “ship of life” is to navigate the coming days; strengthen any weak places, “batten down the hatches”... don’t leave “open places”. Keep close surveillance on the ship’s readiness.
Hear what God is saying, and know that, should you encounter times of wind or storm, He will guide and bring you safely through.
“Look at the ships: though they are so great and are driven by rough winds, they are steered by a very small rudder wherever the impulse of the helmsman determines.” James 3:4 Amplified Bible
“And after He got into the boat, His disciples followed Him. And suddenly, behold, there arose a violent storm on the sea, so that the boat was being covered up by the waves; but He was sleeping. And they went and awakened Him, saying, Lord, rescue and preserve us! We are perishing! And He said to them, Why are you timid and afraid, O you of little faith? Then He got up and rebuked the winds and the sea,and there was a great and wonderful calm (a perfect peaceableness).” Matthew 8:23-26 Amplified Bible
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
The captain knows that if the ship’s rudder isn’t strong the ship could be blown off course or be endangered. And he must be focused in overseeing the readiness of his ship.
In life, the “ship” may represent spiritual matters, home, family, marriage, finance... any or all of the above. Now is the time to review how ready your “ship of life” is to navigate the coming days; strengthen any weak places, “batten down the hatches”... don’t leave “open places”. Keep close surveillance on the ship’s readiness.
Hear what God is saying, and know that, should you encounter times of wind or storm, He will guide and bring you safely through.
“Look at the ships: though they are so great and are driven by rough winds, they are steered by a very small rudder wherever the impulse of the helmsman determines.” James 3:4 Amplified Bible
“And after He got into the boat, His disciples followed Him. And suddenly, behold, there arose a violent storm on the sea, so that the boat was being covered up by the waves; but He was sleeping. And they went and awakened Him, saying, Lord, rescue and preserve us! We are perishing! And He said to them, Why are you timid and afraid, O you of little faith? Then He got up and rebuked the winds and the sea,and there was a great and wonderful calm (a perfect peaceableness).” Matthew 8:23-26 Amplified Bible
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Tuesday, July 01, 2014
A World Of Wonder
A child’s world is full of wonder.
Do not break their world asunder.
Let their little minds explore
Books and nature and much more.
Encourage them to think and dream,
And though their thoughts so simple seem,
As they grow their inspiration
Spurs them on with motivation.
With wisdom guide them as they grow
And help them grasp good seeds you sow.
Learning at an early age
For zest in life will set the stage.
“Train up a child in the way he should go (and in keeping with his individual gift or bent), and when he is old he will not depart from it.”
Proverbs 22:6 Amplified Bible
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Do not break their world asunder.
Let their little minds explore
Books and nature and much more.
Encourage them to think and dream,
And though their thoughts so simple seem,
As they grow their inspiration
Spurs them on with motivation.
With wisdom guide them as they grow
And help them grasp good seeds you sow.
Learning at an early age
For zest in life will set the stage.
“Train up a child in the way he should go (and in keeping with his individual gift or bent), and when he is old he will not depart from it.”
Proverbs 22:6 Amplified Bible
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
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