Encouragement from a friend
Is a candle burning brightly,
For when you’re down it’s hard to see
And do and takes things lightly.
The candle has a healing touch
And overcomes “the blues” with gladness.
Soon you’ll break out into laughter,
Driving out all gloom and sadness.
But more than that, encouragement says,
“I love you and believe in you”.
The candle sheds its lovely light
To brighten all you’re going through.
“Heaviness in the heart of man maketh it stoop: but a good word maketh it glad.”
Proverbs 12:25 KJV
“Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and ealth to the bones.”
Proverb 16:24 KJV
“A merry heart doeth good like a medicine...”
Proverbs 17:22 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sunday, November 30, 2014
Saturday, November 29, 2014
Timing
We sometimes need a “shaking”
Just to bring us up to speed
So we are on the cutting edge
To always know how God would lead.
If we need a “wake-up” call
We should be grateful when it comes.
It gives us fresh, new insight
So we don’t yawn and say “ho-hums”.
If every word the Lord will speak
We carefully will hear and heed,
Always we will have a peace
In how to “move” and to proceed.
Of being in His will and timing
We should always be aware.
We will know His path for us
If we will “watch” and stay in prayer.
“The sheep that are My own hear and are listening to My voice; and I know them, and they know Me.”
John 10:27 Amplified Bible
When he has brought his own sheep outside, he walks on before them, and the sheep follow him because they know his voice.”
John 10:4 Amplified Bible
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Just to bring us up to speed
So we are on the cutting edge
To always know how God would lead.
If we need a “wake-up” call
We should be grateful when it comes.
It gives us fresh, new insight
So we don’t yawn and say “ho-hums”.
If every word the Lord will speak
We carefully will hear and heed,
Always we will have a peace
In how to “move” and to proceed.
Of being in His will and timing
We should always be aware.
We will know His path for us
If we will “watch” and stay in prayer.
“The sheep that are My own hear and are listening to My voice; and I know them, and they know Me.”
John 10:27 Amplified Bible
When he has brought his own sheep outside, he walks on before them, and the sheep follow him because they know his voice.”
John 10:4 Amplified Bible
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Friday, November 28, 2014
Banners Of Prayer
Our country is blessed with Godly foundation.
Let banners of prayer wave over this nation.
The tenets of God are the strength which we need.
Only to His words should we pay heed.
With mixed information we are bombarded.
Against such confusion we need to be guarded.
Issues of import get lost in the shuffle.
Too much mixed news our insight will muffle.
We must stay focused to steer through this "haze"
And not let our thoughts fall into malaise.
When we can't sort out the news that we hear,
Always to God's truths should we adhere.
"Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord; and the people whom he hath chosen for his own inheritance."
Psalm 33:12 KJV
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Let banners of prayer wave over this nation.
The tenets of God are the strength which we need.
Only to His words should we pay heed.
With mixed information we are bombarded.
Against such confusion we need to be guarded.
Issues of import get lost in the shuffle.
Too much mixed news our insight will muffle.
We must stay focused to steer through this "haze"
And not let our thoughts fall into malaise.
When we can't sort out the news that we hear,
Always to God's truths should we adhere.
"Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord; and the people whom he hath chosen for his own inheritance."
Psalm 33:12 KJV
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Thursday, November 27, 2014
A Song Of Thanksgiving
For abundance and for plenty
Let Thanksgiving songs be raised.
In expression from the heart
Let our God be warmly praised.
All we have is from His hand.
Let our worship freely flow.
Acknowledging His rich supply,
Let robust celebration grow.
He has poured out wondrous blessing.
Let us glorify His name!
For His love and faithfulness,
Let us bring Him all acclaim!
"O come, let us sing unto the Lord: let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation. Let us come before his presence with thanksgiving, and make a joyful noise unto him with psalms. For the Lord is a great God, and a great King above all gods.”
Psalm 95:1-3 KJV
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Let Thanksgiving songs be raised.
In expression from the heart
Let our God be warmly praised.
All we have is from His hand.
Let our worship freely flow.
Acknowledging His rich supply,
Let robust celebration grow.
He has poured out wondrous blessing.
Let us glorify His name!
For His love and faithfulness,
Let us bring Him all acclaim!
"O come, let us sing unto the Lord: let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation. Let us come before his presence with thanksgiving, and make a joyful noise unto him with psalms. For the Lord is a great God, and a great King above all gods.”
Psalm 95:1-3 KJV
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Wednesday, November 26, 2014
Thanksgiving Thoughts
Thanksgiving brings reminder of God’s abundant blessing,
And pilgrims coming from afar, their love of God expressing.
They did not quit or “give up ship” because of hardship’s “press”,
But stood for freedom valiantly, enduring constant stress.
The first few years were bleak and hard... they paid a very high cost,
And as they suffered in the cold, precious lives were lost.
They labored and stood firm in faith, believing in their cause,
Planting seeds for this great nation... We give them applause!
Thank You, God, for those dear folk who came upon our shore.
The memory of who they were we never should ignore.
They gave up all they had and knew to worship and be free.
Help us be as strong as they... Help us, Lord, to see!
“Let us come before his presence with thanksgiving, and make a joyful noise unto him with psalms.”
Psalm 95:2 KJV
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
And pilgrims coming from afar, their love of God expressing.
They did not quit or “give up ship” because of hardship’s “press”,
But stood for freedom valiantly, enduring constant stress.
The first few years were bleak and hard... they paid a very high cost,
And as they suffered in the cold, precious lives were lost.
They labored and stood firm in faith, believing in their cause,
Planting seeds for this great nation... We give them applause!
Thank You, God, for those dear folk who came upon our shore.
The memory of who they were we never should ignore.
They gave up all they had and knew to worship and be free.
Help us be as strong as they... Help us, Lord, to see!
“Let us come before his presence with thanksgiving, and make a joyful noise unto him with psalms.”
Psalm 95:2 KJV
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Tuesday, November 25, 2014
Reaching Out
A Thanksgiving Story
Oftentimes, if we look around a little, we can find people with great need right on our doorstep.....
In our neighborhood there was a big old house which had been divided into apartments. There was a kindly gentleman, an older man, who lived there by himself and was very poor.
We were talking one day, as Thanksgiving was approaching, and he commented that he was going to buy a can of pumpkin so that he could taste it on Thanksgiving, because he hadn't had pumpkin pie for a long time. It broke my heart to think that that was going to be the extent of his Thanksgiving dinner. So my parents invited him to come have Thanksgiving dinner with us. Now no one could cook a better turkey than my mom could! Her dinners were always a treat and complete with all the trimmings!
When dinner was ready, she sliced a lot of meat and placed it on a large platter. Also, she placed one whole turkey leg there. We sat down to eat, and as the food was being passed, Mr. H. looked longingly at the turkey platter. He looked at the sliced meat and he looked at the turkey leg, which was large. We knew he wanted the leg, but he was too polite to take it. So Mom told him to take it - and then he did..... with a big smile.
During dinner he began to share his story with us. In 1944 he had done something for which he had spent a short time in jail. His family had disowned him and he had not seen them since. He paid his dues, but his family was gone. He had been completely alone ever since.
It was 1959, and this was the first Thanksgiving dinner he had eaten since 1944....
How rewarding it is to reach out to others.
"For I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in. Inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me."
Matthew 25:35,40b NKJ
© 2004 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Oftentimes, if we look around a little, we can find people with great need right on our doorstep.....
In our neighborhood there was a big old house which had been divided into apartments. There was a kindly gentleman, an older man, who lived there by himself and was very poor.
We were talking one day, as Thanksgiving was approaching, and he commented that he was going to buy a can of pumpkin so that he could taste it on Thanksgiving, because he hadn't had pumpkin pie for a long time. It broke my heart to think that that was going to be the extent of his Thanksgiving dinner. So my parents invited him to come have Thanksgiving dinner with us. Now no one could cook a better turkey than my mom could! Her dinners were always a treat and complete with all the trimmings!
When dinner was ready, she sliced a lot of meat and placed it on a large platter. Also, she placed one whole turkey leg there. We sat down to eat, and as the food was being passed, Mr. H. looked longingly at the turkey platter. He looked at the sliced meat and he looked at the turkey leg, which was large. We knew he wanted the leg, but he was too polite to take it. So Mom told him to take it - and then he did..... with a big smile.
During dinner he began to share his story with us. In 1944 he had done something for which he had spent a short time in jail. His family had disowned him and he had not seen them since. He paid his dues, but his family was gone. He had been completely alone ever since.
It was 1959, and this was the first Thanksgiving dinner he had eaten since 1944....
How rewarding it is to reach out to others.
"For I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in. Inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me."
Matthew 25:35,40b NKJ
© 2004 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Monday, November 24, 2014
A Time Of Plenty
Thanksgiving time is drawing nigh...
The season when we glorify
The God of plenty and provision,
Praising Him for what He's given.
A time to give, a time to share,
A time for others' needs to bear,
For many lives have been displaced
As circumstance has laid them waste.
A time for kindness and compassion,
Reaching out in prayerful fashion,
Truly caring from the heart
For those who need a fresh, new start.
A time to give, a time to share,
A time for us to show we care...
By reaching out in Jesus' Name
We to them God's love proclaim!
"For I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in..... Inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me."
Matthew 25:35,40 NKJ
© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf
The season when we glorify
The God of plenty and provision,
Praising Him for what He's given.
A time to give, a time to share,
A time for others' needs to bear,
For many lives have been displaced
As circumstance has laid them waste.
A time for kindness and compassion,
Reaching out in prayerful fashion,
Truly caring from the heart
For those who need a fresh, new start.
A time to give, a time to share,
A time for us to show we care...
By reaching out in Jesus' Name
We to them God's love proclaim!
"For I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in..... Inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me."
Matthew 25:35,40 NKJ
© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sunday, November 23, 2014
Remember The Pilgrims
Remember the pilgrims and what they stood for...
For freedom to worship they came to our shore.
They made a long journey from depth of conviction
To worship our God and be free from restriction.
Freedom in worship they knew must be guarded,
Not lightly treated or foolishly discarded.
This is a heritage we can't forget,
An error which only would bring deep regret.
God is our strength and all hope for this nation.
We lift our hands in heartfelt oblation.
In honor and tribute and worship we stand,
Knowing our blessings have been from His hand.
"It is a good thing to give thanks unto the Lord, and to sing praises unto thy name, O most High."
Psalm 92:1 KJV
"Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised; and His greatness is unsearchable."
Psalm 145:3 KJV
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
For freedom to worship they came to our shore.
They made a long journey from depth of conviction
To worship our God and be free from restriction.
Freedom in worship they knew must be guarded,
Not lightly treated or foolishly discarded.
This is a heritage we can't forget,
An error which only would bring deep regret.
God is our strength and all hope for this nation.
We lift our hands in heartfelt oblation.
In honor and tribute and worship we stand,
Knowing our blessings have been from His hand.
"It is a good thing to give thanks unto the Lord, and to sing praises unto thy name, O most High."
Psalm 92:1 KJV
"Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised; and His greatness is unsearchable."
Psalm 145:3 KJV
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Saturday, November 22, 2014
Take Time To Reflect
This Thanksgiving Day the best thing to do
Is give God much honor, to which He is due.
The blessings He gives are more than we know.
It truly is time our gratitude to show.
Daily let hearts with awareness be shod.
We must be faithful to honor our God.
We need to slow down and give Thanksgiving space
And worship our God for His goodness and grace.
Christmas will come with joyful ado
And bring many blessings to me and to you.
But Thanksgiving is a true celebration
Of all God has done in this, our great nation.
"For great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised..."
I Chronicles 16:25 KJV
"It is a good thing to give thanks unto the Lord, and to sing praises unto thy name, O most High: to shew forth thy lovingkindness in the morning, and thy faithfulness every night."
Psalm 92:1-2 KJV
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Is give God much honor, to which He is due.
The blessings He gives are more than we know.
It truly is time our gratitude to show.
Daily let hearts with awareness be shod.
We must be faithful to honor our God.
We need to slow down and give Thanksgiving space
And worship our God for His goodness and grace.
Christmas will come with joyful ado
And bring many blessings to me and to you.
But Thanksgiving is a true celebration
Of all God has done in this, our great nation.
"For great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised..."
I Chronicles 16:25 KJV
"It is a good thing to give thanks unto the Lord, and to sing praises unto thy name, O most High: to shew forth thy lovingkindness in the morning, and thy faithfulness every night."
Psalm 92:1-2 KJV
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Friday, November 21, 2014
Climbing Safely
I shared with my chiropractor how I had had difficulty reaching my smoke alarm when it beeped in the middle of the night and how I didn’t want to climb up on anything to take it down. And this is the comment he made...”You should never climb higher than you want to fall.” These very wise words set off a whirlwind of thoughts in me...
If applied to everyday living, these words take on a whole greater meaning. If we try to “climb higher” in anything we do without wisdom and prayer we are setting ourselves up for a possible fall. Climbing higher in the workplace, climbing higher to be seen, climbing higher to prove we can do it, or just being careless and doing things without thinking... none of these is good, and we should always measure the size of a fall. Any kind of a fall could slow down or “cripple” our chances to move forward.
Trigger points which may precipitate a fall are ego, greed, jealousy, carelessness, lack of wisdom... How much wiser it is to think things through and to wait on the Lord’s timing. If we are meant to climb higher, He will prepare us and guide us so that our footsteps will be sure. He can save us many falls if we only will wait on Him. In the Lord we will be able to climb safely, for when we wait on Him, we walk in His favor.
“Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.”
James 4:10 KJV
“He makes my feet like hinds’ feet (able to stand firmly or make progress on the dangerous heights of testing and trouble); He sets me securely upon my high places.”
Psalm 18:33 Amplified Bible
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
If applied to everyday living, these words take on a whole greater meaning. If we try to “climb higher” in anything we do without wisdom and prayer we are setting ourselves up for a possible fall. Climbing higher in the workplace, climbing higher to be seen, climbing higher to prove we can do it, or just being careless and doing things without thinking... none of these is good, and we should always measure the size of a fall. Any kind of a fall could slow down or “cripple” our chances to move forward.
Trigger points which may precipitate a fall are ego, greed, jealousy, carelessness, lack of wisdom... How much wiser it is to think things through and to wait on the Lord’s timing. If we are meant to climb higher, He will prepare us and guide us so that our footsteps will be sure. He can save us many falls if we only will wait on Him. In the Lord we will be able to climb safely, for when we wait on Him, we walk in His favor.
“Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.”
James 4:10 KJV
“He makes my feet like hinds’ feet (able to stand firmly or make progress on the dangerous heights of testing and trouble); He sets me securely upon my high places.”
Psalm 18:33 Amplified Bible
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Thursday, November 20, 2014
Healing In Families
Let families be knit together
And be joined in faith and prayer.
Let them grow in unity
And of Your goodness be aware.
Let priorities be changed
And family values be renewed.
Let them honor one another
And hearts be filled with gratitude.
Let them find new joy in sharing.
Let new bonds be built and treasured.
Let time be spent in love and caring.
This healing can’t be even measured.
“Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!”
Psalm 133:1 KJV
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
And be joined in faith and prayer.
Let them grow in unity
And of Your goodness be aware.
Let priorities be changed
And family values be renewed.
Let them honor one another
And hearts be filled with gratitude.
Let them find new joy in sharing.
Let new bonds be built and treasured.
Let time be spent in love and caring.
This healing can’t be even measured.
“Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!”
Psalm 133:1 KJV
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Wednesday, November 19, 2014
Meekness
Meekness is a gentle trait,
One we tend to underrate.
It doesn't have a special "air"
Or bright facade it needs to wear.
Free from pride, it truly rests.
Its patience has no fear of tests.
Though it be mild, it isn't weak.
With thoughtful kindness it will speak.
The "eyes" of meekness clearly see.
From "self" and "ego" it is free.
It has deep peacefulness within,
And many battles it will win.
"Blessed (happy, blithesome, joyous, spiritually prosperous (that is, with life-joy and satisfaction in God's favor and salvation, regardless of their outward conditions) are the meek (the mild, patient, long-suffering), for they shall inherit the earth!"
Matthew 5:5 Amplified Bible
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
One we tend to underrate.
It doesn't have a special "air"
Or bright facade it needs to wear.
Free from pride, it truly rests.
Its patience has no fear of tests.
Though it be mild, it isn't weak.
With thoughtful kindness it will speak.
The "eyes" of meekness clearly see.
From "self" and "ego" it is free.
It has deep peacefulness within,
And many battles it will win.
"Blessed (happy, blithesome, joyous, spiritually prosperous (that is, with life-joy and satisfaction in God's favor and salvation, regardless of their outward conditions) are the meek (the mild, patient, long-suffering), for they shall inherit the earth!"
Matthew 5:5 Amplified Bible
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Tuesday, November 18, 2014
LORD, You Are
Lord, You are as oil in the gears of my day.
You are the Light which drives away “gray”.
You are the Warmth when others are “cold”.
You are the Source of blessings untold.
You are the Author of love, joy and peace.
From tension and stress You bring me release.
You are Creator of all that I need.
Your blessings and favor my needs far exceed.
You are my Joy in all that I do.
When I am tired, my strength you renew.
When I need courage, in You I find “might”.
Walking with You is a daily delight.
“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
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
You are the Light which drives away “gray”.
You are the Warmth when others are “cold”.
You are the Source of blessings untold.
You are the Author of love, joy and peace.
From tension and stress You bring me release.
You are Creator of all that I need.
Your blessings and favor my needs far exceed.
You are my Joy in all that I do.
When I am tired, my strength you renew.
When I need courage, in You I find “might”.
Walking with You is a daily delight.
“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
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Monday, November 17, 2014
Hiding Place
When in the Spirit “winter” comes
And loudly tries to play its drums,
”In the natural” we may see
A replica of winter’s “spree”.
Autumn winds are blowing cold.
We’re watching winter’s frost unfold.
As such “symptoms” are in view,
What would God have us to do?
Be prepared for “disturbed” weather,
And with the Lord keep constant tether.
He will help us find our norm
And weather through a sudden “storm”.
As the world is so unsettled,
Even so our peace is nettled.
But in our God we can find hope
And confidence with which to cope.
“You are a hiding place for me from trouble. You surround me with songs and shouts of deliverance. Selah (pause and calmly think of that)!”
Psalm 32:7 Amplified Bible
“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
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
And loudly tries to play its drums,
”In the natural” we may see
A replica of winter’s “spree”.
Autumn winds are blowing cold.
We’re watching winter’s frost unfold.
As such “symptoms” are in view,
What would God have us to do?
Be prepared for “disturbed” weather,
And with the Lord keep constant tether.
He will help us find our norm
And weather through a sudden “storm”.
As the world is so unsettled,
Even so our peace is nettled.
But in our God we can find hope
And confidence with which to cope.
“You are a hiding place for me from trouble. You surround me with songs and shouts of deliverance. Selah (pause and calmly think of that)!”
Psalm 32:7 Amplified Bible
“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
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sunday, November 16, 2014
Careful Thoughts
Carefully I choose my thoughts
And try to never let them stray.
For when I’m fine-tuned to the Lord
He shows me many things to weigh.
If I don’t focus in on Him
Then my thoughts will get side-tracked.
My direction won’t be clear
Nor my perception be intact.
I must guard against mixed thoughts
Which take my time and fill my mind,
For when God speaks I want to hear
And to His movement be inclined.
If I don’t manage my thoughts well
I will not know how much I’ve lost.
To not stay tuned-in to the Lord
Can sometimes bring too high a cost!
“Roll your works upon the Lord (commit and trust them wholly to Him; He will cause your thoughts to become agreeable to His will, and) so shall your plans be established and succeed.”
Proverbs 16:3 Amplified Bible
“And thou. Solomon my son, 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
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
And try to never let them stray.
For when I’m fine-tuned to the Lord
He shows me many things to weigh.
If I don’t focus in on Him
Then my thoughts will get side-tracked.
My direction won’t be clear
Nor my perception be intact.
I must guard against mixed thoughts
Which take my time and fill my mind,
For when God speaks I want to hear
And to His movement be inclined.
If I don’t manage my thoughts well
I will not know how much I’ve lost.
To not stay tuned-in to the Lord
Can sometimes bring too high a cost!
“Roll your works upon the Lord (commit and trust them wholly to Him; He will cause your thoughts to become agreeable to His will, and) so shall your plans be established and succeed.”
Proverbs 16:3 Amplified Bible
“And thou. Solomon my son, 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
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Saturday, November 15, 2014
Seniors Are God's Treasures
If you are a senior and think your “work” is done,
The greatest work which you will do may not have even begun.
God can add excitement and a season of great joy
In retirement and beyond when we rest in His employ.
It sometimes takes a lifetime to prepare for a great work,
So opportunity He gives to us we should never shirk.
The insights we have gathered will contribute to the “new”,
And with a new direction mighty works we still will do.
God will use His vessels if they’re open to His voice
And give them “special projects” which will cause them to rejoice.
We’ll have the “fire” and energy to welcome each new dawn.
His joy will fill us with new strength and fervor to go on!
“For he shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and that spreadeth out her roots by the river, and shall not see when heat cometh, but her leaf shall be green; and shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit.”
Jeremiah 17:8 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
The greatest work which you will do may not have even begun.
God can add excitement and a season of great joy
In retirement and beyond when we rest in His employ.
It sometimes takes a lifetime to prepare for a great work,
So opportunity He gives to us we should never shirk.
The insights we have gathered will contribute to the “new”,
And with a new direction mighty works we still will do.
God will use His vessels if they’re open to His voice
And give them “special projects” which will cause them to rejoice.
We’ll have the “fire” and energy to welcome each new dawn.
His joy will fill us with new strength and fervor to go on!
“For he shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and that spreadeth out her roots by the river, and shall not see when heat cometh, but her leaf shall be green; and shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit.”
Jeremiah 17:8 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Friday, November 14, 2014
Truth Speaks Clearly
Truth is always “black-and-white”
And won’t be found in muddy grey.
If truth cannot be clearly seen
Integrity has gone astray.
Words we hear and words in print
On Godly truth may often trample.
Sift the words you hear each day
To see if they are truth’s example.
Integrity and truth will stand...
Always constant, always pure.
When fancy verbiage seeks attention
Rest in God. His truths are sure.
“Every word of God is tried and purified; He is a shield to those who trust and take refuge in Him.”
Proverbs 30:5 Amplified Bible
“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 (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
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
And won’t be found in muddy grey.
If truth cannot be clearly seen
Integrity has gone astray.
Words we hear and words in print
On Godly truth may often trample.
Sift the words you hear each day
To see if they are truth’s example.
Integrity and truth will stand...
Always constant, always pure.
When fancy verbiage seeks attention
Rest in God. His truths are sure.
“Every word of God is tried and purified; He is a shield to those who trust and take refuge in Him.”
Proverbs 30:5 Amplified Bible
“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 (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
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Thursday, November 13, 2014
God's Voice Calling
My people’s eyes and ears are dulled.
By “overload” their minds are lulled.
Awake, O People! Hear My voice!
I offer you a better choice!
Be renewed from constant “blur”.
Let refreshing in you stir.
Spend time in the Word and prayer.
I’ll meet you and will heal you there.
I’ll be your lifeline day and night.
Joy and gladness I’ll ignite.
Let new enthusiasm burn
As from long weariness you return.
The “world” will offer many choices
And coax you with its myriad voices.
But when you choose to “rest” in Me,
From “overload” you will be free.
“You will guard him and keep him in perfect and constant peace whose mind (both its inclination and its character) is stayed on You, because he commits himself to You, leans on You, and hopes confidently in You."
Isaiah 26:3 Amplified Bible
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
By “overload” their minds are lulled.
Awake, O People! Hear My voice!
I offer you a better choice!
Be renewed from constant “blur”.
Let refreshing in you stir.
Spend time in the Word and prayer.
I’ll meet you and will heal you there.
I’ll be your lifeline day and night.
Joy and gladness I’ll ignite.
Let new enthusiasm burn
As from long weariness you return.
The “world” will offer many choices
And coax you with its myriad voices.
But when you choose to “rest” in Me,
From “overload” you will be free.
“You will guard him and keep him in perfect and constant peace whose mind (both its inclination and its character) is stayed on You, because he commits himself to You, leans on You, and hopes confidently in You."
Isaiah 26:3 Amplified Bible
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Wednesday, November 12, 2014
Starting Small-Ending Big
You may be doing something small.
It may not seem to matter at all.
But if you do it very well
God will cause its worth to swell.
We can’t start out with something big.
(A tree starts out as just a twig).
Do not scorn a simple start.
Sincerely do it with full heart.
As you’re faithful in each task
God perfects more than you ask.
Diligence is what you’ll learn,
And higher merits you will earn.
“And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men.”
Colossians 3:23 KJV
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
It may not seem to matter at all.
But if you do it very well
God will cause its worth to swell.
We can’t start out with something big.
(A tree starts out as just a twig).
Do not scorn a simple start.
Sincerely do it with full heart.
As you’re faithful in each task
God perfects more than you ask.
Diligence is what you’ll learn,
And higher merits you will earn.
“And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men.”
Colossians 3:23 KJV
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Tuesday, November 11, 2014
Veteran's Day
A SPECIAL CLASS
Veterans are a special class
Who give of self and far surpass
Ordinary daily call.
To guard our land they give their all.
Today we pay them high esteem.
May the Lord their lives redeem
From weariness and battle scars.
In our sight they’re truly stars!
They have given us their best.
Heroes all, they’ve stood the test.
Precious are the ones who serve.
Highest honors they deserve.
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Veterans are a special class
Who give of self and far surpass
Ordinary daily call.
To guard our land they give their all.
Today we pay them high esteem.
May the Lord their lives redeem
From weariness and battle scars.
In our sight they’re truly stars!
They have given us their best.
Heroes all, they’ve stood the test.
Precious are the ones who serve.
Highest honors they deserve.
© 2010 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Monday, November 10, 2014
Filled With Joy
Lord, I joy to hear Your voice.
You give me reason to rejoice!
You lift my soul to a high place
And cover me with love and grace.
You cause me to be truly blessed.
You give me joy and precious rest.
My heart is filled to overflowing
By Your faithfulness ongoing.
Your mercies every day are new.
All gratefulness be unto You.
You are my Hope, my Joy, my Light.
In You, each day is very bright!
“Many, O Lord my God, are the wonderful works which You have done, and Your thoughts toward us; no one can compare with You! If I should declare and speak of them, they are too many to be numbered.”
Psalm 40:5 Amplified Bible
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
You give me reason to rejoice!
You lift my soul to a high place
And cover me with love and grace.
You cause me to be truly blessed.
You give me joy and precious rest.
My heart is filled to overflowing
By Your faithfulness ongoing.
Your mercies every day are new.
All gratefulness be unto You.
You are my Hope, my Joy, my Light.
In You, each day is very bright!
“Many, O Lord my God, are the wonderful works which You have done, and Your thoughts toward us; no one can compare with You! If I should declare and speak of them, they are too many to be numbered.”
Psalm 40:5 Amplified Bible
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sunday, November 09, 2014
Where Blessings Are Found
Humility often will open a door
And fill us with insight from God’s treasure store.
When “me” is too big, it gets in the way
And causes our blessings to just go astray.
The more that we recognize God’s awesome power
And know that we need Him in every hour,
The more He responds and pours out His grace.
But traces of pride we first must erase.
Humility rests when we trust in God.
We won’t have a need for “glitz” or facade
To make an impression or show who we are
To those who are watching from near or afar.
“Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.”
James 4:10 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
And fill us with insight from God’s treasure store.
When “me” is too big, it gets in the way
And causes our blessings to just go astray.
The more that we recognize God’s awesome power
And know that we need Him in every hour,
The more He responds and pours out His grace.
But traces of pride we first must erase.
Humility rests when we trust in God.
We won’t have a need for “glitz” or facade
To make an impression or show who we are
To those who are watching from near or afar.
“Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.”
James 4:10 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Saturday, November 08, 2014
A Greater Destiny
In God we have a destiny,
A promise of unknown things,
In which we rise above the norm
As His “song” plays on our heartstrings.
The harmonies of His sweet song,
When woven into our own being,
Create in us a sweet release,
From earthly “boundaries” freeing.
What joy and wonder we will know
When we discover God’s design,
Then enter into all He has
And with His purpose we align.
“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
“The Lord is good unto them that wait for him, to the soul that seeketh him.”
Lamentations 3:25 KJV
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
A promise of unknown things,
In which we rise above the norm
As His “song” plays on our heartstrings.
The harmonies of His sweet song,
When woven into our own being,
Create in us a sweet release,
From earthly “boundaries” freeing.
What joy and wonder we will know
When we discover God’s design,
Then enter into all He has
And with His purpose we align.
“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
“The Lord is good unto them that wait for him, to the soul that seeketh him.”
Lamentations 3:25 KJV
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Friday, November 07, 2014
Remember To Laugh
Laughter offsets gloom and doom.
For grumpiness it won’t make room!
Laughter warms a shivering heart
And joy and sunshine will impart.
It makes perspective start to smile,
And tensions it will reconcile.
It overcomes and gets ahead
When anger tries to raise its head.
Laughter is a smile within
And sponsors a delightful grin.
Its presence is a merry friend,
Your “rainy days” it will transcend.
“A merry heart doeth good like a medicine...”
Proverbs 17:22 KJV
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
For grumpiness it won’t make room!
Laughter warms a shivering heart
And joy and sunshine will impart.
It makes perspective start to smile,
And tensions it will reconcile.
It overcomes and gets ahead
When anger tries to raise its head.
Laughter is a smile within
And sponsors a delightful grin.
Its presence is a merry friend,
Your “rainy days” it will transcend.
“A merry heart doeth good like a medicine...”
Proverbs 17:22 KJV
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Thursday, November 06, 2014
When Wisdom Speaks
Wisdom speaks slowly... its words are well-chosen.
It will not hasten or choose its own way.
It prefers balance and peace and well-being.
Its kindness and mercy much “gold” will convey.
Through meekness and trial rich wisdom is honed,
And it will not listen to earthly desire.
It quietly moves with skill and great strength
And offers solutions which truly inspire.
Wisdom gives thought to every word spoken.
It will not rush forth to show it is right.
Its gentleness softens the “tone of its voice”
And when Wisdom speaks, its words bring much light.
“But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.”
James 3:17 KJV
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
It will not hasten or choose its own way.
It prefers balance and peace and well-being.
Its kindness and mercy much “gold” will convey.
Through meekness and trial rich wisdom is honed,
And it will not listen to earthly desire.
It quietly moves with skill and great strength
And offers solutions which truly inspire.
Wisdom gives thought to every word spoken.
It will not rush forth to show it is right.
Its gentleness softens the “tone of its voice”
And when Wisdom speaks, its words bring much light.
“But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.”
James 3:17 KJV
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Wednesday, November 05, 2014
Our Blessed Source
Lord...
In all things You’re a blessed source,
Our lives to lift and reinforce.
You strengthen us when we are frail
Or have high obstacles to “scale”.
By Your grace we are complete,
Our greatest challenges to meet.
When Your “promptings” we forget,
Our “direction” You reset.
Lord, we always need Your touch.
Your blessings are so rich and much!
Your wisdom is our greatest treasure.
We cannot comprehend its measure.
Life has vibrancy in You.
Every day our strength is new.
Our purpose and our vision grow.
MUCH gratitude to You we owe.
“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.”
Psalm 23:1 KJV
“My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness.”
II Corinthians 12:9 KJV
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
In all things You’re a blessed source,
Our lives to lift and reinforce.
You strengthen us when we are frail
Or have high obstacles to “scale”.
By Your grace we are complete,
Our greatest challenges to meet.
When Your “promptings” we forget,
Our “direction” You reset.
Lord, we always need Your touch.
Your blessings are so rich and much!
Your wisdom is our greatest treasure.
We cannot comprehend its measure.
Life has vibrancy in You.
Every day our strength is new.
Our purpose and our vision grow.
MUCH gratitude to You we owe.
“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.”
Psalm 23:1 KJV
“My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness.”
II Corinthians 12:9 KJV
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Tuesday, November 04, 2014
Fires Of Righteousness
Let mighty fires of righteousness
Break forth throughout our land.
Let folks be re-awakened
To the moving of God’s hand.
We were never founded
On a base of shifting sand,
But through prayer and sacrifice
Upon the Rock we stand.
Let us seek the Lord in prayer,
Re-capturing a Godly stance.
Let freedom’s cause be re-established...
Not just happenchance.
Let God’s army march anew
With fire and fervor for this cause,
Re-affirming righteousness.
For this we stand... with much applause!
“Uprightness and right standing with God (moral and spiritual rectitude in every area and relation) these elevate a nation...”
Proverbs 14:34 Amplified Bible
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Break forth throughout our land.
Let folks be re-awakened
To the moving of God’s hand.
We were never founded
On a base of shifting sand,
But through prayer and sacrifice
Upon the Rock we stand.
Let us seek the Lord in prayer,
Re-capturing a Godly stance.
Let freedom’s cause be re-established...
Not just happenchance.
Let God’s army march anew
With fire and fervor for this cause,
Re-affirming righteousness.
For this we stand... with much applause!
“Uprightness and right standing with God (moral and spiritual rectitude in every area and relation) these elevate a nation...”
Proverbs 14:34 Amplified Bible
© 2012 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Monday, November 03, 2014
Being Still
In today’s constant rush it’s hard to be still.
Folks hurry and push until they are ill.
The pace of our world suggests we do more,
And then we will own enough for a store!
Time with our God is the thing we need most.
If we don’t do this, then we cannot boast.
For all that we do will not have much worth
If we don’t give God a space or a berth.
Whatever the pressure, whatever the goal,
God will bring life to a world-weary soul.
When we are still and put our God first,
With blessing and peace we will be immersed.
“Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth.”
Psalm 46:10 KJV
“Because thou hast been my help, therefore in the shadow of thy wings will I rejoice. My soul followeth hard after thee: thy right hand upholdeth me.”
Psalm 63:7-8 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Folks hurry and push until they are ill.
The pace of our world suggests we do more,
And then we will own enough for a store!
Time with our God is the thing we need most.
If we don’t do this, then we cannot boast.
For all that we do will not have much worth
If we don’t give God a space or a berth.
Whatever the pressure, whatever the goal,
God will bring life to a world-weary soul.
When we are still and put our God first,
With blessing and peace we will be immersed.
“Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth.”
Psalm 46:10 KJV
“Because thou hast been my help, therefore in the shadow of thy wings will I rejoice. My soul followeth hard after thee: thy right hand upholdeth me.”
Psalm 63:7-8 KJV
© 2013 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sunday, November 02, 2014
No More Baggage
How much “baggage” do you carry?
Of too much weight you should be wary.
If you had a “carry-all”
Would its weight be large or small?
Some weights could be left behind.
Don’t let past “ills” fill your mind.
Do not focus on what’s lost.
These weights have too high a cost.
Make room for tomorrow’s need.
From worries let your mind be freed.
The weight you carry can be light.
And then your path will be quite bright.
“Do not fret or have any anxiety about anything, but in every circumstance and in everything, by prayer and petition (definite requests), with thanksgiving, continue to make your wants known to God. And God’s peace (shall be yours, that tranquil state of a soul assured of its salvation through Christ, and so fearing nothing from God and being content with its earthly lot of whatever sort that is, that peace) which transcends all understanding shall garrison and mount guard over your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.”
Philippians 4:6-7 Amplified Bible
© 2014 Arlene Scnwartzkopf
Of too much weight you should be wary.
If you had a “carry-all”
Would its weight be large or small?
Some weights could be left behind.
Don’t let past “ills” fill your mind.
Do not focus on what’s lost.
These weights have too high a cost.
Make room for tomorrow’s need.
From worries let your mind be freed.
The weight you carry can be light.
And then your path will be quite bright.
“Do not fret or have any anxiety about anything, but in every circumstance and in everything, by prayer and petition (definite requests), with thanksgiving, continue to make your wants known to God. And God’s peace (shall be yours, that tranquil state of a soul assured of its salvation through Christ, and so fearing nothing from God and being content with its earthly lot of whatever sort that is, that peace) which transcends all understanding shall garrison and mount guard over your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.”
Philippians 4:6-7 Amplified Bible
© 2014 Arlene Scnwartzkopf
Saturday, November 01, 2014
Discovering Who I Am
If I just see myself as “me”,
Then my view is much too narrow.
If I can see who God made me,
I might see He made an “arrow”.
My own view is limited
And probably would be too small.
If God gave “possibilities”,
Then I should want to find them all.
Searching out His very best
Will open many special doors.
And as I travel in His path,
Then I’ll discover wisdom’s “stores”.
On my own I can’t accomplish
All that God would have me do.
But I can fulfill all my purpose
When I seek His well-planned view.
“Know ye that the Lord he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture."
Psalm 100:3 KJV
“Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.”
Philippians 1:6 KJV
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Then my view is much too narrow.
If I can see who God made me,
I might see He made an “arrow”.
My own view is limited
And probably would be too small.
If God gave “possibilities”,
Then I should want to find them all.
Searching out His very best
Will open many special doors.
And as I travel in His path,
Then I’ll discover wisdom’s “stores”.
On my own I can’t accomplish
All that God would have me do.
But I can fulfill all my purpose
When I seek His well-planned view.
“Know ye that the Lord he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture."
Psalm 100:3 KJV
“Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.”
Philippians 1:6 KJV
© 2014 Arlene Schwartzkopf
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