Praying for our precious nation
Is deep matter for concern.
We must “sort out” what we hear
And truth or falsities discern.
News on radio and TV
Will bring distraction every day.
But as we’re focused in the Lord
We will know just how to pray.
The enemy tries to break our focus
With distractions and much noise,
But as we spend time in deep prayer
We will recognize His ploys.
God will hear our heartfelt prayers
And guide us in this midnight hour.
If we will come on bended knee
We’ll see Him move with might and power.
“If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.”
II Chronicles 7:14 KJV
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sunday, August 31, 2014
Saturday, August 30, 2014
Trusting God
If inside you have a dream
And you want it to come true,
Place it in the hands of God
To see if it is right for you.
In His timing, if it’s right,
He will work in your behalf.
He will bring your dream to pass
And bless you with His “autograph”.
But if He has a bigger plan,
Of which right now you aren’t aware,
Trust in Him to show the way.
Wait and seek His face in prayer.
Your life is safe within His hands.
His work in you will be the best.
When you trust Him in your heart
How bountifully you will be blessed!
“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
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
And you want it to come true,
Place it in the hands of God
To see if it is right for you.
In His timing, if it’s right,
He will work in your behalf.
He will bring your dream to pass
And bless you with His “autograph”.
But if He has a bigger plan,
Of which right now you aren’t aware,
Trust in Him to show the way.
Wait and seek His face in prayer.
Your life is safe within His hands.
His work in you will be the best.
When you trust Him in your heart
How bountifully you will be blessed!
“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
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Friday, August 29, 2014
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
Thursday, August 28, 2014
Being Light In Darkness
When things don’t go right, do you murmur or grumble,
Complain and bemoan and hear yourself mumble?
This a good chance to be an example,
To be a bright light... for God’s grace is ample.
If you make choice... His will to consult,
He then will help you to have good result.
As you need direction, on Him depend.
Then all of your actions He will defend.
You may bring light in a very dark place
When you trust the Lord and move in His grace.
You will bring blessing to those with no light,
And His light in you will be very bright.
“My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness.”
II Corinthians 12:9 KJV
“For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure. Do all things without murmurings and disputings: that ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world.”
Philippians 2:13-15 KJV
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Complain and bemoan and hear yourself mumble?
This a good chance to be an example,
To be a bright light... for God’s grace is ample.
If you make choice... His will to consult,
He then will help you to have good result.
As you need direction, on Him depend.
Then all of your actions He will defend.
You may bring light in a very dark place
When you trust the Lord and move in His grace.
You will bring blessing to those with no light,
And His light in you will be very bright.
“My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness.”
II Corinthians 12:9 KJV
“For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure. Do all things without murmurings and disputings: that ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world.”
Philippians 2:13-15 KJV
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Wednesday, August 27, 2014
Being On The Cutting Edge
We sometimes need a “wake-up call”
To jar us from our present state.
If we’re not listening to the Lord
Our thinking may be out-of-date.
The Lord will intercept our ways
And bring attention to this need.
By His mercy He may “shake” us
Just to bring us “up to speed”.
He is gracious, He is kind...
To save us out of selfish ways
Or lift us out of lifestyle patterns
Which cause lethargy’s malaise.
How we need to hear His voice
And have perspectives He will give.
When we’re on “the cutting edge”
We’ll prayerfully and wisely live.
“It is of the Lord’s mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.”
Lamentations 3:22-23 KJV
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
To jar us from our present state.
If we’re not listening to the Lord
Our thinking may be out-of-date.
The Lord will intercept our ways
And bring attention to this need.
By His mercy He may “shake” us
Just to bring us “up to speed”.
He is gracious, He is kind...
To save us out of selfish ways
Or lift us out of lifestyle patterns
Which cause lethargy’s malaise.
How we need to hear His voice
And have perspectives He will give.
When we’re on “the cutting edge”
We’ll prayerfully and wisely live.
“It is of the Lord’s mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.”
Lamentations 3:22-23 KJV
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Tuesday, August 26, 2014
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
Monday, August 25, 2014
Helping Our Children Prosper In School
God gives our children ability and skill
That they might rise up, great feats to fulfill.
If they will study and learn Scripture well,
In all of their classes they will excel.
The wisdom God gives will enlighten their minds,
For He will give insights to them of all kinds.
They’ll have good balance in school as they learn.
Good grades and honors He’ll help them to earn.
In the life of each child God places His light.
When the child knows Him that light will be bright.
The child’s perspective will have a bright glow,
And out of that child much wisdom will flow.
“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
That they might rise up, great feats to fulfill.
If they will study and learn Scripture well,
In all of their classes they will excel.
The wisdom God gives will enlighten their minds,
For He will give insights to them of all kinds.
They’ll have good balance in school as they learn.
Good grades and honors He’ll help them to earn.
In the life of each child God places His light.
When the child knows Him that light will be bright.
The child’s perspective will have a bright glow,
And out of that child much wisdom will flow.
“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
Sunday, August 24, 2014
Too Much In A Hurry
When we move ahead in haste
We sometimes could end up with waste.
Then we grumble to the Lord
When basic facts were not explored.
Wisdom says we should not hurry
When facts we have are somewhat blurry.
Time and energies get spent.
Wisdom this loss could prevent.
Consider well the steps you’ll take.
Until you’re sure, put on the brake.
God can see “around the bend”.
To all your ways He will attend.
“The thoughts of the (steadily) diligent tend only to plenteousness, but everyone who is impatient and hasty hastens only to want.”
Proverbs 21:5 Amplified Bible
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
We sometimes could end up with waste.
Then we grumble to the Lord
When basic facts were not explored.
Wisdom says we should not hurry
When facts we have are somewhat blurry.
Time and energies get spent.
Wisdom this loss could prevent.
Consider well the steps you’ll take.
Until you’re sure, put on the brake.
God can see “around the bend”.
To all your ways He will attend.
“The thoughts of the (steadily) diligent tend only to plenteousness, but everyone who is impatient and hasty hastens only to want.”
Proverbs 21:5 Amplified Bible
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Saturday, August 23, 2014
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
Friday, August 22, 2014
Stretching And Growing
When “lessons” are hard and we have to stretch,
In us these lessons new wisdom will etch.
The size and the scope of what we have learned
Will bring good reward and wisdom well-earned.
If lessons are easy, we may not learn much.
It’s better to stretch... to gain wisdom and such.
We are made larger in times which aren’t easy.
We’ll have made gain even though we were “queasy”.
Lessons God brings will cause us to grow,
Understanding and wisdom and insight to know.
Welcome His teachings and follow His lead.
You will find confidence to meet every need.
“I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.”
Philippians 4:13 KJV
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
In us these lessons new wisdom will etch.
The size and the scope of what we have learned
Will bring good reward and wisdom well-earned.
If lessons are easy, we may not learn much.
It’s better to stretch... to gain wisdom and such.
We are made larger in times which aren’t easy.
We’ll have made gain even though we were “queasy”.
Lessons God brings will cause us to grow,
Understanding and wisdom and insight to know.
Welcome His teachings and follow His lead.
You will find confidence to meet every need.
“I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.”
Philippians 4:13 KJV
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Thursday, August 21, 2014
Making Do
Lady folks of yesteryear were so creative and thrifty, and they found many ways to “make do” with little.
Our family lived in a cold climate and needed warm clothing for winter. So my mother would go to the Goodwill and buy wool coats, the fabric of which she would recycle. She carefully took the coats apart, washed the pieces of wool, and then, using the reverse side of the fabric (which didn’t show wear), would cut out and sew warm clothing for us kids.
Scraps and pieces of fabric from any sewing project were then used to make patchwork quilts. Little pieces that could not be used for anything else were joined together to make warm bedding. No scrap was ever wasted.
Scraps of yarn left over from knitting sweaters or stockings were likewise used to crochet or knit small squares, which were then joined together to make warm afghans or coverlets.
I remember my mother doing a lot of canning... peaches, pears, cherries, plums, applesauce, also jams and jellies. She was very industrious, and she “preserved” whatever was available at the time.
Her life was a model of creativity and thriftiness, coupled with hard work. She knew how to “make do” in hard times, even through the Depression years. What an inspiration she was.... a wonderful example for all those who knew her.
“She fears not the snow for her family, for all her household are doubly clothed in scarlet.”
Proverbs 31:21 Amplified Bible
”Strength and dignity are her clothing and her position is strong and secure; she rejoices over the future (the latter day or time to come, knowing that she and her family are in readiness for it)!”
Proverbs 31:25 Amplified Bible
“Give her of the fruit of her hands, and let her own works praise her in the gates (of the city)!”
Proverbs 31:31 Amplified Bible
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Our family lived in a cold climate and needed warm clothing for winter. So my mother would go to the Goodwill and buy wool coats, the fabric of which she would recycle. She carefully took the coats apart, washed the pieces of wool, and then, using the reverse side of the fabric (which didn’t show wear), would cut out and sew warm clothing for us kids.
Scraps and pieces of fabric from any sewing project were then used to make patchwork quilts. Little pieces that could not be used for anything else were joined together to make warm bedding. No scrap was ever wasted.
Scraps of yarn left over from knitting sweaters or stockings were likewise used to crochet or knit small squares, which were then joined together to make warm afghans or coverlets.
I remember my mother doing a lot of canning... peaches, pears, cherries, plums, applesauce, also jams and jellies. She was very industrious, and she “preserved” whatever was available at the time.
Her life was a model of creativity and thriftiness, coupled with hard work. She knew how to “make do” in hard times, even through the Depression years. What an inspiration she was.... a wonderful example for all those who knew her.
“She fears not the snow for her family, for all her household are doubly clothed in scarlet.”
Proverbs 31:21 Amplified Bible
”Strength and dignity are her clothing and her position is strong and secure; she rejoices over the future (the latter day or time to come, knowing that she and her family are in readiness for it)!”
Proverbs 31:25 Amplified Bible
“Give her of the fruit of her hands, and let her own works praise her in the gates (of the city)!”
Proverbs 31:31 Amplified Bible
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Wednesday, August 20, 2014
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
Tuesday, August 19, 2014
A Strong Tower
If you are “shaky”, filled with fear,
Know the Lord is always near.
He says simply, “Take My hand.
I am here to help you stand.”
He is mighty... a safe tower...
Where you may find rest in this hour.
He brings quiet strength and peace
And causes fearfulness to cease.
Lean on Him... He’ll guard your way
And give you strength for each new day.
He’ll give you more calm than you had
And with His joy will make you glad.
“The name of the Lord is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe.”
Proverbs 18:10 KJV
“It is God that girdeth me with strength and maketh my way perfect.”
Psalm 18:32 KJV
“For the joy of the Lord is your strength.”
Nehemiah 8:10 KJV
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Know the Lord is always near.
He says simply, “Take My hand.
I am here to help you stand.”
He is mighty... a safe tower...
Where you may find rest in this hour.
He brings quiet strength and peace
And causes fearfulness to cease.
Lean on Him... He’ll guard your way
And give you strength for each new day.
He’ll give you more calm than you had
And with His joy will make you glad.
“The name of the Lord is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe.”
Proverbs 18:10 KJV
“It is God that girdeth me with strength and maketh my way perfect.”
Psalm 18:32 KJV
“For the joy of the Lord is your strength.”
Nehemiah 8:10 KJV
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Monday, August 18, 2014
Guarding Our Thoughts
When thoughts are tempered by the Word
Then goodness in us will be stirred.
The Word of God makes peace to rule.
Strong health and calmness it will fuel.
Discord, worry or unrest
Will cause us to be tense or stressed.
Troubled thoughts can make us weary.
Of long-term stress we should be leery.
The Word of God will soothe and heal.
Our thoughts will be “on even keel”.
It’s wisdom filters every thought
And helps us not to be distraught.
“Know thou the God of thy father, and serve him with a perfect heart and with a willing mind: for the Lord searcheth all hearts, and understandeth all the imaginations of the thoughts: if thou seek him, he will be found of thee...”
I Chronicles 28:9 KJV
“Commit thy works unto the Lord, and thy thoughts shall be established.:"
Proverbs 16:9 KJV
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Then goodness in us will be stirred.
The Word of God makes peace to rule.
Strong health and calmness it will fuel.
Discord, worry or unrest
Will cause us to be tense or stressed.
Troubled thoughts can make us weary.
Of long-term stress we should be leery.
The Word of God will soothe and heal.
Our thoughts will be “on even keel”.
It’s wisdom filters every thought
And helps us not to be distraught.
“Know thou the God of thy father, and serve him with a perfect heart and with a willing mind: for the Lord searcheth all hearts, and understandeth all the imaginations of the thoughts: if thou seek him, he will be found of thee...”
I Chronicles 28:9 KJV
“Commit thy works unto the Lord, and thy thoughts shall be established.:"
Proverbs 16:9 KJV
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sunday, August 17, 2014
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
Saturday, August 16, 2014
Diplomacy Is Golden
Diplomacy speaks with words of fine gold.
It’s skilllfulness heals “discomforts” untold.
By words well-thought through it puts folks at ease.
It’s clarity doesn’t leave “shadows” which “tease”.
Diplomacy’s wisdom is tempered with light
And offers encouragement birthed from clear sight.
Diplomacy softens a word with hard edge
And does not leave doubt or “drive in a wedge”.
It seeks to speak truth and bring about peace
To free folks from fears and bring deep release.
It is a skill to be much-desired.
Through wisdom and caring it is inspired.
“Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath.”
James 1:19 KJV
“He that hath knowledge spareth his words: and a man of understanding is of an excellent spirit.”
Proverbs 17:27 KJV
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
It’s skilllfulness heals “discomforts” untold.
By words well-thought through it puts folks at ease.
It’s clarity doesn’t leave “shadows” which “tease”.
Diplomacy’s wisdom is tempered with light
And offers encouragement birthed from clear sight.
Diplomacy softens a word with hard edge
And does not leave doubt or “drive in a wedge”.
It seeks to speak truth and bring about peace
To free folks from fears and bring deep release.
It is a skill to be much-desired.
Through wisdom and caring it is inspired.
“Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath.”
James 1:19 KJV
“He that hath knowledge spareth his words: and a man of understanding is of an excellent spirit.”
Proverbs 17:27 KJV
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Friday, August 15, 2014
Contemplate The Ways Of God
Impulsiveness is never wise.
God’s wisdom it won’t recognize.
It bypasses all common sense
And rushes toward poor consequence.
Contemplate... don’t rush ahead
Where even angels fear to tread.
Meditate... take time to weigh,
Lest you make error and go astray.
Hastiness may just shortchange
God’s blessings you would have long-range.
Impulsiveness is a red flag.
Avoid it, lest you hit a “snag”.
“I will meditate in thy precepts, and have respect unto thy ways. I will delight myself in thy statutes: I will not forget thy word.”
Psalm 119:15 KJV
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
God’s wisdom it won’t recognize.
It bypasses all common sense
And rushes toward poor consequence.
Contemplate... don’t rush ahead
Where even angels fear to tread.
Meditate... take time to weigh,
Lest you make error and go astray.
Hastiness may just shortchange
God’s blessings you would have long-range.
Impulsiveness is a red flag.
Avoid it, lest you hit a “snag”.
“I will meditate in thy precepts, and have respect unto thy ways. I will delight myself in thy statutes: I will not forget thy word.”
Psalm 119:15 KJV
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Thursday, August 14, 2014
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
Wednesday, August 13, 2014
A Joyful Gift
Some folks have a special gift,
And many hearts they will uplift.
They will know just what to say,
And they are like a sunshine ray.
They have sensitivity
Which comes from time on bended knee.
They will go the second mile
To show they care and help you smile.
They’ll lift you up and cheer you on
Until your fears or qualms are gone.
They’ll add perspective in your day
And bring you joy by what they say.
“Anxiety in a man’s heart weighs it down, but an encouraging word makes it glad.”
Proverbs 12:25 Amplified Bible
“A happy heart is good medicine and a cheerful mind works healing”
Proverbs 17:22 Amplified Bible
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
And many hearts they will uplift.
They will know just what to say,
And they are like a sunshine ray.
They have sensitivity
Which comes from time on bended knee.
They will go the second mile
To show they care and help you smile.
They’ll lift you up and cheer you on
Until your fears or qualms are gone.
They’ll add perspective in your day
And bring you joy by what they say.
“Anxiety in a man’s heart weighs it down, but an encouraging word makes it glad.”
Proverbs 12:25 Amplified Bible
“A happy heart is good medicine and a cheerful mind works healing”
Proverbs 17:22 Amplified Bible
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Tuesday, August 12, 2014
The Answer Came
I needed an answer... for some time I prayed.
But it seemed my “direction” was somewhat delayed.
Then one day God gave me a brand new suggestion.
My answer came when I asked the right question!
I now have a challenge to follow His lead.
By grace He will help me in how to proceed.
For all this to happen... on Him I depend.
He is my Helper, my Guide and my Friend.
Our God is faithful... He hears every prayer
And adds to us wisdom, our hearts to prepare.
Then, in His timing, He moves us ahead,
Encouraging us... our “new wings” to spread.
“The Lord is my Strength and my (impenetrable) Shield; my heart trusts in, relies on, and confidently leans on Him, and I am helped; therefore my heart greatly rejoices, and with my song will I praise Him.”
Psalm 28:7 Amplified Bible
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
But it seemed my “direction” was somewhat delayed.
Then one day God gave me a brand new suggestion.
My answer came when I asked the right question!
I now have a challenge to follow His lead.
By grace He will help me in how to proceed.
For all this to happen... on Him I depend.
He is my Helper, my Guide and my Friend.
Our God is faithful... He hears every prayer
And adds to us wisdom, our hearts to prepare.
Then, in His timing, He moves us ahead,
Encouraging us... our “new wings” to spread.
“The Lord is my Strength and my (impenetrable) Shield; my heart trusts in, relies on, and confidently leans on Him, and I am helped; therefore my heart greatly rejoices, and with my song will I praise Him.”
Psalm 28:7 Amplified Bible
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Monday, August 11, 2014
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
Sunday, August 10, 2014
How Great A Blessing
Do you want to be blessed? Then find ways to serve.
Render assistance or do a good turn.
Serving is better than putting self first.
If someone needs help, then show some concern.
Humility comes when we serve one another,
And many have needs which we maybe can fill.
When we choose to serve, it changes perspective.
For those who have need, your help is a thrill.
To be a good servant may not bring you “title”,
And service may sometimes be lengthy or hard.
But how great a blessing you then will receive
For showing another your sincere regard.
“Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others."
Philippians 2:3-4 KJV
© 2014 Arlene schwartzkopf
Render assistance or do a good turn.
Serving is better than putting self first.
If someone needs help, then show some concern.
Humility comes when we serve one another,
And many have needs which we maybe can fill.
When we choose to serve, it changes perspective.
For those who have need, your help is a thrill.
To be a good servant may not bring you “title”,
And service may sometimes be lengthy or hard.
But how great a blessing you then will receive
For showing another your sincere regard.
“Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others."
Philippians 2:3-4 KJV
© 2014 Arlene schwartzkopf
Saturday, August 09, 2014
Priceless Treasure
In the Lord we are complete.
We do not suffer lack.
He satisfies our deepest needs.
His hand is never slack.
We are rich when we abide
Beneath the shadow of His wing,
As we put our trust in Him
And to His tenets tightly cling.
Oh, what joy we find in Him.
He fills us with abundant measure.
When we serve our precious Lord
Our lives are filled with priceless treasure.
“How excellent is thy lovingkindness, O God! Therefore the children of men put their trust under the shadow of thy wings. They shall be abundantly satisfied with the fatness of thy house; and thou shalt make them drink of the river of thy pleasures. For with thee is the fountain of life; In thy light shall we see light.”
Psalm 36:7-9 KJV
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
We do not suffer lack.
He satisfies our deepest needs.
His hand is never slack.
We are rich when we abide
Beneath the shadow of His wing,
As we put our trust in Him
And to His tenets tightly cling.
Oh, what joy we find in Him.
He fills us with abundant measure.
When we serve our precious Lord
Our lives are filled with priceless treasure.
“How excellent is thy lovingkindness, O God! Therefore the children of men put their trust under the shadow of thy wings. They shall be abundantly satisfied with the fatness of thy house; and thou shalt make them drink of the river of thy pleasures. For with thee is the fountain of life; In thy light shall we see light.”
Psalm 36:7-9 KJV
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Friday, August 08, 2014
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
Thursday, August 07, 2014
Finding God's Path
Prayer helps us to be still...
To hear God’s voice and know His will...
And then to follow as He leads,
For He knows all our deepest needs.
We can trust what He will say.
He’ll never let us go astray.
And if our path should be made new
He’ll guide us then in all we do.
When the Lord directs our ways
He saves us from an unknown “maze”
And causes us to reach high goals,
Fulfilling all His chosen roles.
“I am the Good Shepherd; and I know and recognize My own, and My own know and recognize Me.”
John 10:14 Amplified Bible
“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 direct and make straight and plain your paths.”
Proverbs 3:5-6 Amplified Bible
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
To hear God’s voice and know His will...
And then to follow as He leads,
For He knows all our deepest needs.
We can trust what He will say.
He’ll never let us go astray.
And if our path should be made new
He’ll guide us then in all we do.
When the Lord directs our ways
He saves us from an unknown “maze”
And causes us to reach high goals,
Fulfilling all His chosen roles.
“I am the Good Shepherd; and I know and recognize My own, and My own know and recognize Me.”
John 10:14 Amplified Bible
“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 direct and make straight and plain your paths.”
Proverbs 3:5-6 Amplified Bible
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Wednesday, August 06, 2014
Increasing Faith
When we have a need we cannot “think small”,
For our God is greater than any or all.
Our trust in Him must flourish and grow
So we will not miss what He would bestow.
His lovingkindness is greater by far
Than any new challenge when we’re “under par”.
He is our confidence, in which we find peace.
If we will believe, our faith will increase.
“For verily I say unto you, That whosoever shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he saith shall come to pass, he shall have whatsoever he saith.”
Mark 11:23-24 KJV
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
For our God is greater than any or all.
Our trust in Him must flourish and grow
So we will not miss what He would bestow.
His lovingkindness is greater by far
Than any new challenge when we’re “under par”.
He is our confidence, in which we find peace.
If we will believe, our faith will increase.
“For verily I say unto you, That whosoever shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he saith shall come to pass, he shall have whatsoever he saith.”
Mark 11:23-24 KJV
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Tuesday, August 05, 2014
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
Monday, August 04, 2014
The Gift Of Laughter
When we’re slow to start our day
Things get better if we’ll pray.
A cup of laughter early on
Will chase the blues until they’re gone!
Jesus wants us to have joy
And all His wisdom to employ.
We don’t need to battle gloom.
With His help our day can bloom.
Laughter is a happy choice...
One which makes us to rejoice!
No longer will we fear or fret.
When we choose joy we are “reset”.
Our joy in Him is such a plus.
We rise above life’s “fuss and muss”.
In the Lord we are so blessed.
He gives us joy... and we have rest.
“This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.”
Psalm 118:24 KJV
“For the joy of the Lord is your strength.”
Nehemiah 8:10 KJV
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Things get better if we’ll pray.
A cup of laughter early on
Will chase the blues until they’re gone!
Jesus wants us to have joy
And all His wisdom to employ.
We don’t need to battle gloom.
With His help our day can bloom.
Laughter is a happy choice...
One which makes us to rejoice!
No longer will we fear or fret.
When we choose joy we are “reset”.
Our joy in Him is such a plus.
We rise above life’s “fuss and muss”.
In the Lord we are so blessed.
He gives us joy... and we have rest.
“This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.”
Psalm 118:24 KJV
“For the joy of the Lord is your strength.”
Nehemiah 8:10 KJV
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sunday, August 03, 2014
Much Prayer Needed
Prayer is needed in our nation
To keep us on our firm foundation.
Lord, how much we need Your light
To save us from our error and blight!
Let men bow their knee in prayer
And bravely all Your truths declare.
Let men seek You in this hour.
We truly need Your strength and power.
Let us hold Your standard high.
Let many hearts to You draw nigh.
Forgive us, Lord, of all our wrong.
Help us once again be strong.
“Let us search and try our ways, and turn again to the Lord. Let us lift up our heart with our hands unto God in the heavens.”
Lamentations 3:40-41 KJV
“If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.”
II Chronicles 7:14 KJV
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
To keep us on our firm foundation.
Lord, how much we need Your light
To save us from our error and blight!
Let men bow their knee in prayer
And bravely all Your truths declare.
Let men seek You in this hour.
We truly need Your strength and power.
Let us hold Your standard high.
Let many hearts to You draw nigh.
Forgive us, Lord, of all our wrong.
Help us once again be strong.
“Let us search and try our ways, and turn again to the Lord. Let us lift up our heart with our hands unto God in the heavens.”
Lamentations 3:40-41 KJV
“If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.”
II Chronicles 7:14 KJV
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Saturday, August 02, 2014
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
Friday, August 01, 2014
Fertile Ground
If you are in “a briar patch”
God will help you “start from scratch”.
Offer up your untilled ground.
Let treasures hidden there be found.
God multiplies a sincere start
And many blessings will impart.
You may think you just have naught
In Him you’ll find more than you thought.
Let your life be fertile ground.
In your heart let love abound.
When in God you have deep root
You will blossom and bear fruit.
“He shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; whose leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.”
Psalm 1:3 KJV
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
God will help you “start from scratch”.
Offer up your untilled ground.
Let treasures hidden there be found.
God multiplies a sincere start
And many blessings will impart.
You may think you just have naught
In Him you’ll find more than you thought.
Let your life be fertile ground.
In your heart let love abound.
When in God you have deep root
You will blossom and bear fruit.
“He shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; whose leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.”
Psalm 1:3 KJV
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)