God In Our Midst

The gatherings of saints in worship and prayer
Become as an off'ring of sweet incense rare.
To myriad saints who for His voice yearn,
God will bend down and His ear will turn.

God is much blessed His children to hear.
When they bring worship He will draw near.
He's in the midst of saints' heart-felt prayer.
Know in these times that He will be there.

Much can be done in times such as these.
Oneness of spirit the Father will please.
He answers prayer in ways which amaze.
He is our help and so worthy of praise.

"Again I say unto you, That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven. For where two or three are gathered together in my name there am I in the midst of them."
Matthew 18:19-20 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

In His Time

The eagle, in God's rightful time,
Will catch the wind and soar and climb.
It cannot soar when not quite ready...
Only when it's wings are steady.

Skill and "savvy" must be learned.
By practice is his high flight earned.
High flight when his wings are weak
Could make him fall and havoc wreak.

Eagles triumph in the sky
And to the doors of Heav'n draw nigh.
In God's timing, seasoned well,
On wind of Spirit they will dwell.

"To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven. He hath made every thing beautiful in his time."
Ecclesiastes 3:1, 11 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Changing Values

Strong foundations, built in truth, endure with strength and power
And will sustain us over time from foes which would devour.
But many falter, many stray, because they've not learned truth.
Godly tenets are not taught and are denied our youth.

"Haziness" of values has become a daily norm.
How sad that truths are watered down until they are "lukewarm"!
Lack of clear direction will cause the land to ail.
Without the truth of God to guide, society will fail.

Oh, that we would soon return to holiness and prayer
And study to discern God's truths... to always be aware
That wisdom is a precious gift... a necessary tool...
To build a strong foundation and weakness overrule.

"And be ye not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect will of God."
Romans 12:2 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Heavenly Balm

In the stillness, in the quiet,
Silently You come...
Breaking through that weariness
Of life's continual "drum".

What refreshing! What sweet peace!
What endearing calm!
Sharing in these moments
With You is heav'nly balm.

Here I listen to Your heart,
The whisper of Your voice,
And linger in Your presence,
To weep and to rejoice.

Quietly I wait on You
In fellowship divine...
Little else is of import
Except with You to dine.

"In thy presence is fulness of joy..."
Psalm 16:11 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Bless The Lord, O My Soul

We cannot even measure God's benefits to us.
Oh what blessing, oh what joy, His goodness to discuss.
More than we imagine He hovers near our side
And joys in being with us to cover and to guide.

All that we can fathom is only a small start
Of that which He would give us and wishes to impart.
We are subjects of His love and awesome, healing touch.
Glory be unto our God that He would care so much!

Let us offer vibrant praise and worship with our voice.
Magnify His holy name, give honor and rejoice!
God is high above the heav'ns, yet hears our every prayer.
With our lives and in our hearts His goodness we declare!

"Bless the Lord, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name."
Psalm 103:2 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

In Times Of Need

In times of need God is our source.
He helps us stand and stays our course.
Sometimes all we see is loss.
But He will help us bridge across
Until we rest on solid ground.
In Him our footing will be sound.

God is gracious - how He cares!
He hears our cries and all our prayers.
He provides and watches o'er
The "down and out", the weak and poor.
In times of flood, in times of drought,
His compassion reaches out.

When you think you just can't stand,
He will gently take your hand.
He will lift you to your feet
And help you overcome defeat.
He is waiting. Just look up.
He alone can "fill your cup".

"God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble."
Psalm 46:1 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Growing Pains

Most of us do not like "growing pains" (this might suggest work), but the truth of the matter is, we don't grow in the easy times. Growth happens when we stretch to meet demands or reach goals. If you would rather just sit back and take it easy... well, how boring is that! And sooner or later life will hurtle something big your way, and how will you handle it? We don't grow up in one fell swoop but by dealing with life's challenges as they present themselves and by reaching higher in our understanding and perceptions over time.

So if you are on life's path and the challenge in front of you is huge, the lesson may be to learn to trust God more. If you're caught in a place in which you cannot see the end, learn patience (ouch!). If someone is hard too deal with, show love to them. They may need it more than you know. If you have been deeply wounded, forgive. (Jesus does this for us every day). "Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do..." (Luke 23:34).

In ourselves we do not have the wisdom or strength to master our goals or overcome these challenges, but Jesus will raise us up and make us able. "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me." (Philippians 4:13). Perhaps we will taste hard work or disappointment, failure or sorrow, ill health or loss, but we are not alone. In all these things the Lord is by our side to raise us up, spur us on, add wisdom and bring us to victory.

If a challenge stands in front of you, it just may be that God has allowed it because there is something precious He wants you to learn. Know that He will be faithful to guide and help you through it Or, if life has just dished out a circumstance you don't like, ask God what you can learn from it. "Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.". (II Timothy2:15).


"For every one that useth milk is unskillful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe. But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil."
Hebrews 5:14-15 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

God's Rhythm

A Prayer

Lord, help me to go slow enough that, when I smell roses, I can stop and linger. But quicken me, Lord, to move on when Your fragrance isn't there.

A rushed pace can cause me to totally miss Your blessings; but, likewise, so can a pace which is too slow.

Help me to be so attuned to Your pace that I will always move in the timing of the Holy Spirit, always walking in rhythm with what You are doing.

And help me to realize that roses may be hiding in some very plain-looking, everyday places...


© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Our Great Creator

Our awesome God brings the rain as He wills
To refresh the land and wash away "ills".
All nature responds and is sweetly declaring
"How rich is His love, how great is His caring!"

He is the Maker of rain and of snow.
He makes the tides and the rivers to flow.
The mountains and hills, the valleys and plains,
Shall lift up their praise and echo sweet strains...

Acknowledging God and giving Him glory.
Creation will tell this jubilant story!
When nature in reverence it's anthem shall raise,
All heaven and earth will be filled with His praise.

"Praise the Lord from the earth, you sea monsters and all deeps! You lightning, hail, fog, and frost, you stormy wind fulfilling His orders! Mountains and all hills, fruitful trees and all cedars! Let them praise and exalt the name of the Lord, for His name alone is exalted and supreme! His glory and majesty are above earth and heaven!"
Psalm 148:7-9 & 13 Amplified Bible

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Guarding Our Children

Fragmented families are cause for concern.
The children cry out. Their little hearts yearn
To just be at home with Mom and with Dad.
Because they can't do this, so many are sad.

Home is a shelter and family it's base,
Where children are strengthened life's trials to face.
When family is broken the children have fear,
And deep insecurity robs them of cheer.

Parents, be strong, alert and aware!
Cover your family with wisdom and prayer.
Close all the doors to evil's design,
Lest enemy forces your home undermine.

"... As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord."
Joshua 24:15 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Good Fruit

At the end of the day, are our labors for nought?
In that which we do, have we giv'n enough thought?
It's fruitless to labor at tasks with poor cause.
If there is no substance, then we should give pause...

To pray and to seek a work with good fruit.
To follow God's calling should be our pursuit.
Then all our work will have new perspective.
The key is to find and know God's objective.

Our time is well-spent when God shows the way.
He guides us and prospers our work day-to-day.
To bear worthy fruit should be our first call.
Then He will bless us... in great and in small.

"And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him."
Colossians 3:17 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Happy Note

Always people seem to need
A happy note to cheer their days.
A smile, a wave, a bright "hello"
Can bring a change which will amaze.

Often it will not take much
And really is a joy to do.
And when you bring good will to others
It will then return to you!

Choose to brighten someone's day.
Shower others with good will.
When you walk this happy trail
Your joy will be greater still!

"Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul and health to the bones."
Proverbs 16:24 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Smog Alert

Beware, My children, lest you become jaded,
Lest your minds and thoughts are plundered and raided
By worldly concepts which have little worth.
They creep in so subtly and slyly seek berth.

You may not spot them with your own first glance.
Be very guarded, so you don't take chance.
The Word is the filter and screening you need
So you will have wisdom to spot "worldly" seed.

Jadedness wearies and misleads bright hope.
It cripples clear vision and wrong doors will ope.
The flow of the Spirit this bad pest will clog.
It's spiritual darkness... an unwelcome smog!

"And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect will of God."
Romans 12:2 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Treasure

The fear of the Lord is a good place to start
If one would find wisdom to store in his heart.
Reverence for God is the key to the door
Of wisdom and knowledge and "riches" and more.

Wisdom is higher than silver and gold,
Brimming with wealth and treasures untold.
Man may have fortunes and "hoardings" on earth,
But these can't compare with wisdom's great worth.

Gathering wisdom will open one's eyes,
For insights God gives are truly a prize.
That which man stores is only as waste.
By fear of the Lord we with wisdom are graced.

"The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding."
Proverbs 9:10 KJV

"How much better is it to get wisdom than gold: and to get understanding rather to be chosen than silver!"
Proverbs 16:16 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Cross

The cross is a blessed place of relief
Where one can lay down all sorrow and grief
And find strength and courage to face a new day,
Where burdens are lifted and sin's washed away.

At the foot of the cross is peace for each day...
A good place to come to worship and pray.
The cross is a symbol of God's awesome love,
Outpoured for His people from Heaven above.

This is where Jesus, our blessed Savior died
That we might be saved and in Him abide.
All things are changed in the light of the cross.
The shed blood of Jesus has covered all loss.

"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life."
John 3:16 KJV

"Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits: who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases. Who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies; who satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle's."
Psalm 103:2-5 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

SonShine

If your day seems bleak and bare,
Of God's Sonshine be aware.
There is always something good
To thank our God for, if we would.

Think about His grace and love,
Showered on you from above.
Think about His faithful care.
Know that He is always there.

In review, things aren't so bad.
For all God's gifts we can be glad!
Whene'er a challenge comes your way
Let His Sonshine light your day.

"This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it."
Psalm 118:24 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

His Precious Covering

In years past I played the piano for the services of a large church. In this church we had lots of worship, and the people worshipped with all their hearts. Always I strived to do my very best at the piano... as an offering to our precious Lord and also to bless the people. But one morning, I hit wrong notes several times. I was frustrated. It was not my norm for this to happen very often. But to have it happen more than once in any given service bothered me.

To my amazement, after that one service, several people came up to me and thanked me for blessing them with my playing. Occasionally a person would thank me, but this morning several came. I was dumbfounded. It was like the Lord had covered my errors and not even allowed the people to hear them. And then, out of His lovingkindness, He moved these people to come forth and thank me. His graciousness to me was so heartwarming. I felt like Jesus Himself was thanking me. What a blessing! What an awesome God we have!

"Because thy lovingkindness is better than life, my lips shall praise thee. Thus will I bless thee while I live: I will lift up my hands in thy name."
Psalm 63:3-4 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Tender Care

As we live and work and play
Sometimes things will go astray.
Relationships get jarred and frayed
And sometimes need some tender "aid".

Litlte tensions are a sign
Which, gone unchecked, can cause "decline".
Diplomacy and loving care
Will usually bring some good repair.

Relationship is as a gift
And sometimes needs a little "lift",
To be given tender care
And be gently wrapped in prayer.

"Love never fails..."
I Corinthians 13:8 NKJ

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Coffee Break

Housework sometimes is a bore.
Dust and clutter are a chore!
How come houses don't stay clean?
I need "down time" in between!

Piles of clothes don't wash themselves.
Books don't jump back onto shelves.
What is sticky on my floor?
Oh! Someone's knocking at my door.

Who said this is easy work?
Around each corner more tasks lurk.
When I'm done I have to bake.
To start, I need a coffee break!


© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Rooted In Him

It's good to grow roots in the soil of the Word.
For there are our health and welfare assured.
These are the roots which cause us to stand
Against storm and flood when life makes demand.

God gives us nourishment from which to draw.
No matter the "tide", we rise up in awe.
His roots go deep and cannot be jarred.
His wisdom and strength become a sure guard.

Those who aren't "planted" or may be uprooted
Can grow roots in Him and then be sure-footed.
Endurance and power in His Word are stored.
Tap roots of strength are found in the Lord.

"As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him: rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving."
Colossians 2:6-7 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Prayer Retreat

God has answers for this day
If we stand in faith and pray.
He is able to bring change
And circumstance to rearrange.

We should not accept defeat
But to our place of prayer retreat.
Through our God are battles won.
By His hand great feats are done.

If you're faced with evil's bag
And sin abounds and waves it's flag,
Know that God can change this trend
And to sin's folly bring an end!

"Through God we shall do valiantly: for he it is that shall tread down our enemies."
Psalm 108:13 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

He Knows My Heart

Some days my greatest efforts do not amount to much,
And though I've really labored hard don't have "that special touch".
And then some days I move along with energy and ease,
Pat myself upon the back and think, "This was a breeze!"

The Lord will look upon those days I worked and tried so hard.
Those might be the very days when in His sight I "starred".
The work I do cannot be measured in the sight of man.
My meekest efforts just might be my best in God's great plan.

What is in my heart each day is that which God will measure.
Even though I be not skilled, my worship is His treasure.
He can take my weakest skills and make them shine as gold.
All that I wiill do for Him has benefit untold.

"...For the Lord seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart."
I Samuel 16:7 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Confort Of God

In times of sadness, loss or sorrow,
God helps us to face tomorrow.
When our eyes with tears are blurred
He is there to undergird.

For He is able to sustain,
To take away our fear and pain.
He brings comfort, rest and peace
And from sorrow brings release.

He is strong when we are weak.
His love and friendship gently speak.
He will hide us 'neath His wing
Till we again can laugh and sing.

"Blessed are they who mourn, for they shalll be comforted."
Matthew 5:4 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Impact We Make

Lord, You determine the path we will take
And the everyday impact that our lives will make.
When we're obedient and walk in Your will,
Our "walk" will not be just "run-of-the-mill".

If we are sensitive we leave a trail
Of blessing and love on a heavenly "scale".
If we're not sensitive we leave a path
Of "crushing" and sadness, anger and wrath.

We cannot know the impact we'll have,
So it's good to "walk softly" and be healing salve.
The quietest things we do every day
In the Lord's mighty hands will not go astray.

"He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?"
Micah 6:8 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

God Bless America

May all of our leaders before our God bow.
Reverence and holiness may they avow.
For God's ways are high... above all we know...
And will keep us from wavering to and fro.

We were established on firmest foundation
And need to respect it's Godly creation.
Surely God's favor has brought us this far.
He is our help... our bright, Shining Star!

May all who lead be found on their knees,
Seeking God's face for His expertise.
Therein lies promise for bright days ahead,
That through prayer and wisdom we may safely tread.

"The counsel of the Lord standeth for ever, the thoughts of his heart to all generations. Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord; and the people whom he hath chosen for his own inheritance."
Psalm 33:11-12 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Mighty Tower

Jesus' name is our strong tower,
A place of refuge in this hour,
Filled with strength and filled with might,
A bulwark... safe against the "night".

We are sheltered from the storm,
To fear and doubt will not conform.
We will "hide" in Jesus' name
And to the world His power proclaim!

Jesus' name brings hope and peace
And from our worries brings release.
Jesus' name will be our tower,
A place of "resting" in this hour!

"The name of the Lord is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe."
Proverbs 18:10 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Time Well Used

The precious hours of each day
Continually will tick away.
There's opportunity in each
A deed to do or goal to reach.

We cannot keep or get them back,
But certainly can try to pack
Some good things into every hour,
Maybe even plant a flower.

When that flower starts to bloom
And issues forth it's sweet perfume,
Share it... just to bring a smile
To one who needs to feel worthwhile.

If we use our time this way
And give to brighten someone's day,
God will honor what we do
And multiply our time anew.

"See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil."
Ephesians 5:15-16 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

An Unwelcome Guest

We have a great destroyer in our midst. Sometimes it simmers unnoticed, but often it isn't controlled and upsets everything it gets near by it's actions. It's manifestations are most unpleasant. What is it? Anger.

Look out for this destoyer. Sometimes it is subtle and lies hidden within. If it is allowed to rest there, undealt with, over time it will sap energy, affect health, cause prayers to be unanswered and hinder relationship with God and with others. God does not want us to live this way. "Be angry, and do not sin: do not let the sun go down on your wrath." (Ephesians 4:26 NKJ).
The enemy will stir this flame to divide and conquer. He will plant seeds of mistrust and doubt. He will use intimidation and sarcasm and haughtiness in others to spark flames of offense, bitterness, grudges and unforgiveness. But God gives us solutions. We can choose to repond in love and to not react to the enemy's barbs. This way the enemy has no door of entrance for the purpose of destruction. This is a good door to keep closed.

"Love does not behave rudely, does not seek it's own, is not provoked, thinks no evil..."
I Corinthians 13:5 NKJ

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Words Which Linger

Let your speech be sweetly graced
And with God's love and peace be laced.
Words can be a healing balm
And foster lovingcare and calm.

E'en as sunshine shares it's light,
Your words may be as neon bright.
Laughter in your voice can bring
Some hope to which a soul may cling.

A voice as soothing as a shower
Is almost like a fragrant flower.
It's memory lingers on awhile
And, by it's beauty, brings a smile.

"A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver."
Proverbs 25:11 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Fields Of Flowers

Lord, I want to sow some seeds
Of love and laughter, joy and grace,
That these seeds might multiply
And sorrow, fear and gloom displace.

Let my words go forth as seeds
And cause a field of "flowers" to grow,
With foliage, size and beauty rare
And fragrance wafting to and fro.

Let me seed a rich bouquet
To broadcast Your Good News about,
Bringing hope to many folk
Through times of trial or of doubt.

In the wind of Your sweet Spirit
May these seeds blow far and wide.
May they rest in fertile soil
And in hearts and lives abide.

"Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man."
Colossians 4:6 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Children In Need

Today's children are tomorrow's leaders. How will they lead? On what will they base their thinking and ideas?

Who (besides us, the parents - or in place of us) is mentoring our children? And what are they learning? Their "exposures" are many and varied: teachers, friends, neighbors, TV, movies, etc. Do we know what our children are thinking? How will they know the wisdom of God if we do not teach them? What then will be their foundation from which they determine right from wrong?

Children need the blessing of a Godly heritage, and they especially need our prayers. Our work is cut out for us. Our children need our help.

"And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might. And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up."
Deuteronomy 6:5-7 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Almighty God

We do not know Your power, Your strength,
The size of Your love...the breadth or the length...
Until we are tested and reach out in prayer.
Then we will realize how much You care.

There is no valley too wide or too deep,
Nor is there mountain too high or too steep.
There is no challenge which You cannot meet,
Or battles and wars You cannot defeat.

When we're in need of the power of Your hand,
We then will trust that You'll help us stand.
Almighty God of power and might,
You are our strength, You are our light!

"Behold, the Lord's hand is not shortened, that it cannot save: neither his ear heavy, that it cannot hear."
Isaiah 59:1 KJV

"The name of the Lord is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe."
Proverbs 18:10 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Mountaintops

If we want to climb a mountain
We must learn to be sure-footed.
We cannot reach the top until
We're wise and deeply-rooted.

Footsteps taken hastily,
Without consideration,
Can lead us into problems
And be of short duration.

God keeps us in the valley
Until His perfect time,
And sets us in high places
Only when we've learned to climb.

He shapes us for the narrow ledge
By His awesome love and grace.
When we're on "the cutting edge".
We will reach the highest place.

"It is God that girdeth me with strength, and maketh my way perfect. He maketh my feet like hinds' feet, and setteth me upon my high places."
Psalm 18:32-33 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Heavenly Net

Recently, as I was sitting in a doctor's waiting room, a woman I didn't know walked up to me and said, "You have great peace." I did feel peace, and the Lord allowed her to see that. We began to talk and had a wonderful conversation about the Lord. I knew God had orchestrated this meeting. While we were talking I glanced across the waiting room and another woman caught my attention. (I didn't know this one either). The glory of God was written all over her face. She was like a fountain of light. She sat with her eyes closed, and I felt that she was praying. After a few minutes she walked over to me and the first woman and handed each of us a piece of paper. She had torn the corner off of her bank deposit slips and gave one to each of us. Now we had her address and phone number and also a blessing which was printed there. She whispered to us, indicating she too was a Christian. Each of the three of us lives in an outlying region of a large metropolitan center. It is interesting to me that we were from three far-away corners outside the city. Surely God was putting something together, even though we live quite a distance from one another.

Recently I heard from a Christian friend whom I had lost track of approximately thirty-five years ago. This lady lives in yet another outlying corner of the larger metroplex area.

As I have pondered all this I was reminded of a vision I had sixteen years ago. It was this:

"I was looking down on the city. It was dark. I became aware that there were many homes that had light inside, and God showed me which ones they were. I saw a huge net (like a fishnet) draped across the roofs of the houses. The knots in the net were attached to the houses which had light, connecting those houses one to the other... the networking of the saints... today's real church. This all lay under the cover of darkness. There was no light in the vision, but God allowed me to see where the Light was."

Be encouraged. I believe the saints will see and know where other saints are. God will allow us to see and know one another, though we may never have met before, even as like what happened to me in the doctor's waiting room. We will not stand alone, though the hour be dark. God will always be with us and help us.

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Sanctuary

Purify my heart, O Lord,
Every fiber, every niche.
Help me reach transparency,
Without a shadow or a glitch.

Stretch and change my heart to know
A greater depth of wisdom's gold.
Let me hasten and be quick
Your love and teachings to enfold.

In every recess of my heart,
In it's deepest sanctuary,
May I be a worthy vessel
Of Your love extraordinary.

"Search me, O god, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: and see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting."
Psalm 139:23-24 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Happy Independence Day

A GREAT NATION

Could we turn back the pages of why we are great,
Could sit with our founders and time re-create,
We would hear prayer and reverence for God,
A standard of holiness without "facade".

We would meet men of wisdom and might
Who had long-range vision and desire to do right.
With heartfelt conviction they founded our nation.
To them we all owe a standing ovation!

They honored God in action and word.
By Scripture and holiness these men were stirred.
Our founders had a prayerful concern.
They set fine example. From them we should learn.

"Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord..."
Psalm 33:12 KJV

"Thou hast a mighty arm: strong is thy hand, and high is thy right hand. Justice and judgement are the habitation of thy throne: mercy and truth shall go before thy face."
Psalm 89:7 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

If I Could See Jesus

If I could see Jesus, what would I see...
Compassion and caring for one such as me,
Acceptance and love beyond all compare
And willingness always my burdens to bear.

His light and His glory could not be described,
Neither His warmth, in words, though one tried.
He is the Ruler o'er heaven and earth
And yet has deep interest to help us have worth.

Oh, how He cares for every soul,
To save and to heal and make each one whole.
His love is much more than we comprehend.
Though we can't see Him, He is our best friend.

"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 8:38-39 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

God's Chessboard

July 2, 2009

God has a chessboard! And He has a "game plan" which He wishes to accomplish. When we become yielded to Him He will begin to prepare us for "service". And as we are molded and shaped in Him, He will set us in place on His "chessboard".

He is preparing many for service, and it is important to stand in position wherever He places us, for a game cannot be won if some of the pieces are missing. When He begins to "move" He will need each person for a specific part of His plan.

How exciting it is to be used of Him! However, of this we cannot boast, for this is a "quiet work". The "world" will not see the chessboard, but by the Spirit it will become very clear to those who love Him.

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Men Of Boldness

Thank You, Lord, for godly men
Who stand in place and are not moved,
Who work for righteousness and truth
Even when they're disapproved.

Evil loiters in the wings,
Watching, waiting to take o'er,
But men of boldness on alert
Drive these evils from our door.

These are those who toil and pray
That we might still hear freedom's ring.,
Mighty men who don't give up
But to God's righteousness will cling.

"Through God we shall do valiantly: for he it is that shall tread down our enemies."
Psalm 60:12 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Tiny Child

A fresh new babe, a tiny light,
Filled with promise oh-h-h so bright.
A work of art, God's sweet creation,
Cause for joyous celebration.

What's more precious than a child
Upon whose life the Father smiled?
A little gift from Heaven above...
A portrait of the Father's love.

"Lo, children are an heritage of the Lord: and the fruit of the womb is his reward."
Psalm 127:3 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A New Day's Promise

Lord, Here is my heart. Please fill it today
With insight and wisdom and courage, I pray.
Let me respond with worship and praise.
With newness of life let me be ablaze.

Each day has promise... a gift which You give...
A blessed opportunity for me to live.
Help me to grasp the greatness of this
So I will have victory and no portion miss.

You give me challenge, and You set my pace.
As I yield to You I'll rest in Your grace.
Let my day be measured with wisdom and skill,
That all of Your purpose I might fulfill.

"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

"This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it."
Psalm 118:24 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Artistry Of God

I see heaven in a flower,
And in a bird's wing see God's power.
Everwhere God's love abounds
In painted beauty which astounds.

Only God could build a "mount"
Or cause a bubbling water fount,
Fill the oceans and the seas,
Or bless us with a gentle breeze.

His artistry in rich array
Blesses us in every way.
All worship be unto His name.
All glory to our God proclaim!

"O Lord our Lord, how excellent is thy name in all the earth!"
Psalm 8:9 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Times Of Resting

How fast are we going? How fast must we run
To get through the day with everything done?
Is there time to ponder or just sit and think
Of all of God's goodness from which we may drink?

Moments with Him bring times of refreshing
And add good perspective when things are not "meshing".
Not "pausing" with Him may have a sad cost,
As bright new perception could simply be lost.

His wisdom is pleasant and brings us to "rest"
In confidence daily to meet every test.
What sweet dimension in Him can be found!
Our days will be brighter and blessings abound!

"Whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report: if there by any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things."
Philippians 4:8 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Season Of Prayer

Heavenly Father....
Make a way for Your people. Let there be a parting of the waters. Let them walk on dry ground and cross over into the promised land for which they have long prayed. Let the needed answers come.

May the people gather in fear and trembling and in reverence and worship before Your throne, but without fear of man. Let them find solace and rest from weariness there, renewal and refreshing in their bodies and new fervor from the Holy Spirit. Let Your people drink and drink of Your life-giving waters, and be changed...
In Jesus' Name.

The Holy Spirit will bring fresh energy to those who gather unto Jesus, who seek to honor and worship Him.

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Manna

Gentle manna from the Lord,
Provision for our every need,
Sustenance from heaven above
Our spirit and our soul to feed...

Gift and favor from God's hand,
Benefit in rich supply...
His faithfulness will never fail.
As we wait He will draw nigh.

Manna is divinely given.
We do not know and can't perceive
How it becomes reality,
And yet it comes when we believe.

"And when the children of Israel saw it, they said one to another, It is manna: for they wist not what it was. And Moses said unto them, This is the bread which the Lord hath given you to eat."
Exodus 16:15 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

High Places

In God we have purpose and reach for high goals.
He guides us and helps us to find our true roles.
But each time we think our labors are done
God may have a new work which He has begun.

He stretches and bends us to prosper and grow.
He leads us to dwell where His fresh waters flow.
To be in the center of God's perfect will
Will fill us with wisdom and prayerful skill.

He is the strength and the power and might
Which carry us bravely to breathtaking height.
We need not look back, but always look up.
With His richest blessings He will fill our cup.

"It is God that girdeth me with strength, and maketh my way perfect. He maketh my feet like hinds' feet, and setteth me upon my high places."
Psalm 18:32-33 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Abide In Him

If circumstance brings troubling toll
And you feel you've lost control,
Turn to Jesus in your need.
Your fondest hopes He will exceed.

That which has you in a bind
In Him will clearly be defined.
With His wisdom as your guide
His peace and stillness will abide.

Safety lies beneath His wing.
To His covering tightly cling.
Whatever challenge comes along,
Though you're weak, He will be strong.

"He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler."
Psalm 91:4 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Bright Candle

Let me be a candle bright,
A beacon shining in the night,
Reaching out with joy and hope
To save a soul or help one cope.

I may be a tiny link,
But often bigger than I think,
For some may only need my prayers
Or some to know another cares.

Let my beacon ne'er go out
But beam your love and light about.
Through the distance, through the night,
Keep me shining, keep me bright.

"Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven."
Matthew 5:16 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Happy Father's Day

A MAN OF GOD

A man to look up to,
A man who stands tall,
Who truly loves God
And gives Him his all...

A man of great kindness,
With heart of pure gold,
Full of much wisdom
And giftings untold.

Grounded in faith
And strong in His walk,
His life is well-lived
And not "idle talk".

Living the Word,
His life is a story
Of truly bright light,
To God be the glory!


© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Rainbow Promises

Rainbows do not grace the sky without a little rain.
(Without some life experience we will have no gain).
When rain clouds sometimes hover o'er and do not go away,
In God's perfect timing we will see a brighter day.

In rain is hidden treasure as we learn to know the Son.
While waiting for the rainbow His precious work is done.
And when the Son breaks through the clouds our eyes will upward turn
To see God's rainbow promise as the "light" for which we yearn.

On the back of every cloud are many rainbows waiting
To be spilled out upon our lives, His promises re-stating.
Graced by Heaven's rainbows, our lives become a story
Of richness from the Father's hand. To Him be all the glory!

"Because he hath set his love upon Me, therefore will I deliver him; I will set him on high, because he hath known My name. He shall call upon Me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him and honour him. With long life I will satisfy him, and shew him My salvation."
Psalm 91:14-16 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Discovering Gold

Gold is often hidden in the plainest one we see.
It's probable we'll pass right by this possibility.
To see gold in another we must learn to "see the heart",
A very special gift which the Spirit will impart.

As we grow more sensitive the Spirit will point out
The hidden gold in others where we may have had some doubt.
Gold is God's rich treasure, sometimes really covered.
When we see through spiritual eyes then it will be discovered.

"...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

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

In Your Presence

Lord, You are my hiding place,
A sweet oasis in life's race,
Where I may come and drink and live
And find refreshing which You give.

Deep within that secret place
I'm washed in Your amazing grace.
As I bow and worship You,
I am changed to see anew.

Worldly cares grow faint and dim.
I only hear a glorious hymn,
Gently ringing in my soul.
Your presence, Lord, has made me whole.

"Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore."
Psalm 16:11 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Charades

We are living in such a serious time...

People are so stretched as they run about to jobs, to school, to family, to sporting events, to meetings, to social gatherings, busily filling every day and week in a flurry of activities. They are caught up in schedules, maybe of their own choosing, or of necessity, or perhaps imposed by others.

But sometimes these activities and schedules can become places of "hiding" from something we need to face or need to do, or from something which would cause change or take us out of our comfort zones. Busyness can become a facade, or a point of pride ("Look at all the things I am doing..."). It is sometimes like "Charades"... a game people play. We may fool those around us, or even fool ourselves for a time, but we can't fool God. Some may be caught in this unwittingly, for it is deceptive. It is an enemy trap to distract God's people.

We are living in a time of urgency. God wants us to break free from any "games" we may be playing. This is a time to re-order our lives in accordance with His tenets and His Word, and to become transparent before Him. He will lead and guide us carefully as we focus on Him and purpose to stay within His covering.

"See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is."
Ephesians 5:16 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Kaleidoscope

Our world is a kaleidoscope
Of yellows, reds and blues,
Painted by a loving God
In endless shades and hues.

God's great artistry gave birth,
In evidence for all to see,
To colors splashed throughout the earth
In endless creativity.

Color is God's special gift,
In constant, bright procession,
...As lovely as a symphony,
His beauteous expression.

"O Lord, Our Lord, how excellent is thy name in all the earth!"
Psalm 8:9 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

God's Seasons

Are we in touch with God and His seasons,
Sense His direction and perceive His reasons?
Are we in touch with the beat of His heart
And open to Him... a new work to start?

Are we in touch with the sound of His voice
And ready to make whatever His choice?
Do we respond to the move of His hand
To go forth in battle and faithfully stand?

He may come in, our direction to shift.
Wherever the need, His movement is swift.
Whether the seasons be short or be long,
As we move with Him, in Him we'll be strong.

"And when he putteth forth his own sheep, he goeth before them, and the sheep follow him; for they know his voice."
John 10:4 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Constant Care

God promises to light our way.
He leads and guides us day by day.
His lamp shines brightly in the night.
In Him we always will have light.

We have His presence by our side.
We're not alone... in Him abide.
Though troubles come, or flood or drought,
His lamp o'er us will ne'er go out.

More and more I am aware
Just how constant is His care.
His faithfulness and guiding hand
Are more than we can understand.

"For thou art my lamp, O Lord: and the Lord will lighten my darkness."
II Samuel 22:29 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Grace Is There For Me

When part of my life starts to come together and I think I have it just right, then usually I find something else I need to work on which is lagging behind. It is in these times that I am especially grateful for grace.

Grace waits until I can catch up.
Grace catches me when I fall.
Grace is gentle and always smiles (probably chuckling at my bumbling attempts at times).
Grace is encouragement when I hit hard bumps along the way.
Grace is always the sufficiency which causes me to win, filling the part of the gap between me and the goal which I, of myself, cannot fill.
Grace does not look at my weakness or inability but waits with joyful expectation.
Grace is as light in the darkness and does not leave me alone.
Grace is an "always" friend.

"And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee..."
II Corinthians 12:9 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The High Road

If circumstances pull you down,
Take the "high road"... do not frown.
Choose to smile and laugh and pray.
In the doldrums do not stay!

We can bless when others curse,
And past confusion can traverse.
Pleasant words we choose to speak
Can turn the tide when all looks bleak.

We don't need to wail and cry
When to the Lord we can draw nigh.
We can rise above the fray
By staying positive each day.

"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 2:14-15 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Resting

The Good Shepherd stands in the midst of the sheep,
And He watches over them... safety to keep.
They do not fret or worry or fuss
Or question His leading, as do some of us.

They are at peace and rest at His side,
For they are dependent on His hand to guide.
We are as sheep, but often don't rest,
And scramble the Shepherd's plans for our best.

We can't run ahead or linger behind,
For sheep without leading are really quite "blind".
The sheep at His side who pay heed to His voice
Have learned how to "rest", and will truly rejoice.

"And when he putteth forth his own sheep, he goeth before them, and the sheep follow him: for they know his voice."
John 10:4 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Banquet Table

The grace and goodness of the Lord
Are as a daily smorgasbord
Where we may come to feast and dine
And be a part of His design,

Partaking of His wondrous grace,
Being held in His embrace,
Tasting of His love and joy,
Being used in His employ...

Drinking from His wells of peace,
Letting cares and worries cease.
As we gather 'round His table
Lives are changed, for He is able.

If you would dine with Him today
And near His table choose to stay,
Gratitude and praise expressing,
You will find continual blessing.

"O taste and see that the Lord is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in him."
Psalm 34:8 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Wings To Soar

You are my joy when deep inside I sigh.
You are the wings which enable me to fly.
You are the wind which takes me to new height,
Who sets me in high places and fills me with delight.

You are the fire which deep within me burns
And fills me with a warming flame. For You my spirit yearns.
You are skillful hands when I simply cannot reach.
You become a ready voice when I am lacking speech.

You are mighty power to help me climb a mount,
And when I'm tired or thirsty, You become my fount.
I know in all my frailty that You will give me wing,
Causing me to brightly soar and joyful worship bring.

"The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in him,
and I am helped: therefore my heart greatly rejoiceth;
and with my song will I praise him."
Psalm 28:7 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Love And Good News

How blessed the day when we joyfully choose
To carry God's message of love and Good News.
For people need Jesus, His life and His light.
So many are living in darkness and night.

We can plant "fires" of peace and good will
And bring healing touches to those who are ill.
We can speak blessing to those who are sad
And bring seeds of hope to make them feel glad.

Each little gesture we do in His name,
And each little word we speak to proclaim
The Good News of Jesus, His grace and His love,
Will bring great reward from the Father above.

"As it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!"
Romans 10:15 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Little Mama Robin

Little Mama Robin,
When your nest fell from the tree,
I wondered if you were okay
And where you now could be.

But then I saw your babies
Hip-hopping all around,
Waiting for a "snack"
As you picked worms from the ground.

"Chirp" and "Peep" and Cheep"
Are some names which sure would fit
Your little speckled babies
As they flutter and they flit.

Their feathers still are short
And their wings are not yet strong.
But soon they will be flying
'Cause you feed them all day long!

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Speaking Blessings

It's easy to love those whose speaking is gentle,
Those who are kind and not temperamental.
But some folks send darts and thorns with their speech,
Intended to impact whomever they reach.

How sad is the state of the heart in these folks.
A thorn brings dissension and wounding provokes.
Hearts full of thorns are truly unhappy,
Fostering speech which can sometimes be snappy.

We need not receive any thorns which are "sent",
But should return blessing to offset "intent".
This won't be easy but keeps us above
The "fracas" which tries to rob us of love.

"He that covereth a transgression seeketh love..."
Proverbs 17:9 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Signs Along The Way

When God gives us signs of "stop" or "beware",
Using good caution will save us from snare.
When we hear Him call, it's good to draw near.
His leading will keep us from error and fear.

He knows what's best and is faithful to guide
When we heed His voice and in Him abide.
What joy to walk with our hand in His hand!
What peace when we follow the path He has planned!

A life set apart for Jesus, our Lord,
Is sure to be blessed with much rich reward.
To follow His lead and follow His voice
Is reason to always sing and rejoice!

"Teach me thy way, O Lord, and lead me in a plain path, because of mine enemies."
Psalm 27:11 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Heart Of Worship

Worship is a language
Of expressions of the heart.
It cannot be measured
In terms of "skill" or "art".

For it transcends a simple form,
Reaching far beyond "the norm".
Worship is deep love outpoured
In gratitude to our dear Lord.

Holy worship knows God's grace
And responds to His embrace.
It's beauty will be heard and felt
By those His Spirit has indwelt.

The heart can reach no higher plane
Nor deeper joy will it contain
Than when it's worship is expressed.
The heart, in worship is much blessed.

"My soul longeth, yea, even fainteth for the courts of the Lord: my heart and my flesh crieth out for the living God."
Psalm 84:2 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Who Is Watching?

We may never know who is watching us,
Who pattern their lives on our actions thus.
If we're a "window" which people look through,
Let us be sincere and always true-blue.

Let them see Jesus each time that they look.
Let wisdom be there as an open book.
We may be light or start a new fire
For one reaching up... new heights to aspire.

We may impact someone we don't know
And cause them to change, to stretch and to grow.
Living for Jesus is really "top-notch"
And will make impression on any who watch.

"Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven."
Matthew 5:16 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Hidden Potential

In spring a little flower rises up from a quiet place in the ground... and what a story it has to tell!

Hidden there in the darkness was a seed or root or bulb with all the potential God had given for that little flower to grow. Gently it peeks forth into the sunlight and blossoms, spilling out it's fragrance and the full expression of it's purpose.

But the flower doesn't come forth until the "season" is right and the ground starts to warm up. There is a right timing.

So it is as we grow in the Lord. He designs us, guides and nurtures us, preparing us all along the way, that we might become the full expression of who He made us to be. And in His timing we will blossom. Our hidden potential will become a sweet fragrance unto Him... when the season is right.

"Thy hands have made me and fashioned me."
Psalm 119:73 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Written In The Heart

The heart is as a library
Of memories untold.
When Jesus comes to live there
It's stories will unfold.

Each volume which was written,
In quietness concealed,
Will start to make a picture
As it's treasure is revealed.

The memoirs of the heart
Cannot e'en be spoken
Until the Lord resides there
And heals that which is broken.

He will read each book,
Adding fragrance and "bouquet".
Then the volumes of the heart
His glory will portray!

"...For the Lord seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart."
I Samuel 16:7 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Loveliness

True loveliness is an inner workinig, birthed out of right relationship with the Lord. The loveliness of Christ flows freely through those who spend time with Him and who understand His ways.

It can be seen in a gentle smile or heard in a spoken word, or in a loving response from one with a caring, giving spirit. It rests in humility, and it's outworking is graciousness.

Lovely people are overcomers... those who have suffered or struggled, but who have worked through their difficulties and have put them in proper perspective. They, because of their deep victories, go on to bless many. They shine. They impact other lives. Their speech is beautifully measured. They are insightful, loving and kind. They are reflections of Jesus in our midst.

"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy., peace, longsuffering,
gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance:
against such there is no law."
Galatians 5:22-23 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Treasure-Stores

Never look down on people of years,
For they have "fought wars" and shed many tears.
They have forgotten more than we have learned
And have wealth of stature which they proudly earned.

They will have wisdom beyond what we know.
Esteem and respect to them we should show.
For we have not walked as far as they have.
Their lives are a balm... a sweet, healing salve.

Our gray-haired folks are rich beyond measure,
Filled with the years and stores of good treasure.
Carefully listen to hear what they say,
For they have learned much in life every day.

"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

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Gentle Folk

Some folks have "a quiet touch"
And by their love will bless you much.
They don't look for laud or favor,
But their lives have special "savor".

Being near them fosters light.
Their smiles will make your day seem bright.
For they have learned to sense a need.
Their hearts respond in love and deed.

They aren't found on "center stage"
But will write a "gentle page"
In lives that need a little hope
And tender warmth to help them cope.

These are folk of small renown
Who in heav'n will wear a crown.
Each will wear a "royal" cloak.
Precious ones... these gentle folk.

"Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth."
Matthew 5:5 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Rich Reservoir

The resource of the mind is a wondrous reservoir.
Everything we've learned is somewhere there in store.
If we give thought to Jesus and study in His Word,
Our learning will increase. By His power we'll be stirred.

The Word will drive out hindrances and purify the mind,
Healing thinking patterns as it's "contents" are refined.
Our minds have great potential when focused toward the Lord.
He opens up our thinking and pours in rich reward.

"And be renewed in the spirit of your mind."
Ephesians 4:23 KJV

"For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind."
II Timothy 1:7 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Second Mile

When completing a task, and the "first mile" is done,
Running the second mile some folks will shun.
But those folks who stretch to meet this high test
Will give of their finest and always be blessed.

Industrious people always have work
Because in their duties they just do not shirk.
The mundane and simple, or jobs which repeat,
With grit and finesse they will gladly complete.

They will find honor in all that they do
And have satisfaction when day's work is through.
Knowing they've given the best that they had
They then can rest and truly be glad.

"And let the beauty of the Lord our God be upon us: and establish thou the work of our hands upon us; yea, the work of our hands establish thou it."
Psalm 90:17 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Reconciliation

Reconciliation is a bridge
To joy and peace,
A healing bond of love
Which brings blessing and release.

To walk this bridge we must lay down
All bitterness and ire,
Forgiving hurts and all offense
Which may have happened prior.

Heart-wrenching as this task may be,
In retrospect we'll find
That this will wash away our pain
And leave it far behind.

Forgiveness breaks the barriers
And opens up the gate.
As we cross this wondrous bridge
It's healing will be great!

"Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice. And be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving one another, just as God in Christ also forgave you."
Ephesians 4:32 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Memorial Day

FREEDOM'S CAUSE

Men of bravery, men of "gold",
Men of youth, men of old,
We salute you once again
For guarding us where'er you've been.

Some, with your own lives, have paid.
Your memory will never fade.
You stood strong through battles tough.
Our tribute ne'er will be enough.

So today we humbly pause
Because you fought for freedom's cause.
Unselfishly you gave your all
When you answered country's call.

Thank you, one and all who serve.
Highest honors you deserve!
Whene'er we see you we are proud.
In prayer for you our hearts are bowed.

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Valiant In Prayer

Prayer warriors are much needed,
Lest our values be conceded,
Lost to those who dress their lies
In "pretty"phrases and disguise.

But for the truth we take up fight
To speak for what is just and right.
Battles can be fought and won
In prayer by many... or just one.

Joined in heart and joined in hand,
Interceding 'cross the land,
God's warriors don their battle gear
And to the throne of God draw near.

Almighty God, Your name we praise
And unto You our worship raise.
We Your people will proclaim
All laud and glory to Your name!

"Through God we shall do valiantly: for he it is that shall tread down our enemies."
Psalm 108:13 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Size Of God's Love

How can we measure the size of God's love?
It's depth and it's width are simply beyond
That which our thinking can e'er hope to grasp.
We simply reach up and to Him respond.

All that we have is from His own hand.
He showers us daily with mercy and grace.
In all of our ways He guides and protects us.
We simply need rest in His mighty embrace.

"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 8:38-39 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Happy Days

Every morning is bright and new, and it is wonderful to start the day with the Lord and then expect to have a beautiful day. But then... maybe a family member "snaps" at you; or your children start an argument; or you get pushed around in traffic; or a co-worker treats you badly, or a neighbor backs into your flower bed... and you get perturbed or upset! Does this sound familiar?

I was talking with a friend, and she said her grandfather always told her, "Don't let anyone spoil your day". What a good piece of advice! If the Lord has given us a new day, why should we let anyone (or anything) rob it's joy? I believe the enemy will do anything he can to steal our joy and spoil our day, and he uses other people to do that sometimes. When we realize what is happening, we can choose to not play his game but stay focused on grabbing as much joy as possible out of each waking hour. Say "No" to the temptation to react. And then go one step further. Bless those who bring irritation and are negative, and, by doing so, steal the devil's thunder!

It is less work and less stressful to be positive than it is to retrieve one's emotions from a situation gone bad!

Don't let anyone spoil your day!

"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

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Built On The Rock

Is your "house" built on the Rock?
Is it safe against all "shock"?
Does wisdom line it's inner walls
To ward off storms and unseen squalls?

Is it's roof of tempered steel
And it's structure strong and real?
What's inside will really matter
If life's pressures crush or scatter.

Store the Word in every room
As sustenance against all doom.
Fear the Lord and stay in prayer,
And through life's storms you'll safely fare.

"Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: and the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock. And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house: and it fell: and great was the fall of it."
Matthesw 7:24-27 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Caring Hands

How warm the hand that reaches out.
This is what love is about.
This hand might touch or heal a heart,
Or maybe joy or strength impart.

Caring hands are such good news
To help another "chase the blues".
When some poor soul just needs a "lift",
A caring hand is as a gift.

A caring hand which dials a phone
To call someone who's all alone
May bring a smile or be a light
To make that person's day be bright.

Hands that care are truly blessed
As they bring others peace or rest.
Loving hands that truly care
Are sometimes hands which answer prayer.

"She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy."
Proverbs 31:20 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Worship

The harmonies of Heaven resound throughout the earth
And deep within the heart of man to worship give sweet birth.
Adoration answers with expressive, lilting song
As creation bursts with loveliness of worship all day long.

Worship gently wafts and weaves throughout the atmosphere...
A blessing from our loving God... His message of good cheer.
He brings us new dimension with each creative strain
And fills our hearts with Heaven as we hear His sweet refrain.

God's harmonies are matchless and marvelously profound,
Echoing from Heaven in a symphony of sound.
When we stop to listen and give God reverent pause,
We will hear the wonder of creation's sweet applause!

"O sing unto the Lord a new song; for he hath done marvellous things..."
Psalm 98:1 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Goodness Of God

When we gather of the goodness
Of our kind and gracious God,
Our hearts are clothed in love
And our feet with peace are shod.

Our lives become His instruments...
We're in a different realm.
We're hidden in His secret place
With Jesus at the helm.

What better way to spend our days
Than seeking His sweet presence,
Gath'ring of His wisdom
And worshipping with reverence?

He will change us deep within.
To live for Him gives reason
To always serve Him faithfully,
To rejoice in every season.

"Because thy lovingkindness is better than life, my lips shall praise thee. Thus will I bless thee while I live: I will lift up my hands in thy name."
Psalm 63:3-4 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Time To Pause

Lord, I don't want to go so fast that I am never still.
If I'm always "on the run", my cup You cannot fill.
I must pare my thinking down... to enter into "calm".
For I desire to know You more and feel Your healing balm.

An empty cup is just not good. To "run" is such a waste!
For I could "miss" Your Spirit, or Your glory might not taste.
Thoughts propel me forward, but I will stop to pause,
For any day I leave You out will certainly have flaws.

"Surely I will not come into the tabernacle of my house, nor go up into my bed; I will not give sleep to mine eyes, or slumber to mine eyelids, until I find out a place for the Lord, an habitation for the Mighty God of Jacob."
Psalm 132:3-5 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Memorable Moment

What started out to be an ordinary evening became memorable in an unexpected way...

My brother and I were having hamburgers in a local fast-food restaurant, and from where we sat I could see the entrance doors. As we chatted I saw people coming and going and didn't pay too much attention... until a certain couple walked in. They were poorly dressed, and both of them were quite tall and large. But what really caught my attention was their hair. They were obviously senior citizens, and both of them had long gray hair. His hair was shoulder-length, and from a distance looked kinda' scruffy. Her hair was tied back and hung halfway down to her waist. It seemed unusual to see a senior woman with hair that long.

As they were by the soda pop machine my brother observed them. I commented about their long hair, and he said, "Haircuts are expensive." They appeared to be poor.

As we left the restaurant this couple was just ahead of us. The man held the door open for her, but she had turned back to put her cup in the trash bin. As I walked out I said to him, "She's coming", and we thanked him for holding the door open. I turned back to smile at her, and as I looked into her face, was totally blown away. I have never seen such KINDNESS in a face. In her smile and in her eyes was a depth of beauty and expression beyond anything I have ever seen in another human being.

Kindness in a face is painted there over time by many acts of love and compassion, by sacrifice and giving, by understanding and selflessness. I knew that this woman knew about love.

After we left the parking lot I realized that they had not eaten while they were there. They only ordered some drinks. They may have been poor, but they were very rich in spirit. It was written in their faces.

What a blessing it was to have just a momentary encounter with this couple.

"Love endures long and is patient and kind..."
I Corinthians 13:4 Amplified Bible

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Broken Reed

Even as a broken reed
Some are weak and much in need.
Jesus, by His gentle hand,
Will lift the reed so it may stand.

His compassion and His grace,
His loving care and strong embrace,
Will cause the reed to have new health
And fill it's stalk with wisdom's wealth.

Though the reed was bended low,
With new knowledge it will grow
Into a planting strong and tall...
One which will not bend or fall.

Though strong winds blow or bring new threat
All it's nurture will be met.
For Jesus looks upon the needs
Of tiny, struggling, tender reeds.

"Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you..."
James 4:8 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Cross-Sheltered Life

A cross-sheltered life with joy will resound,
For deep in it's shadow are blessings profound.
At the foot of the cross we find Heaven's door
And seal our destiny forevermore.

There we are sheltered and truly secure,
And in Christ's identity grow and mature.
The cross brings us depth and balance and vision,
And helps us to have a quiet precision.

Gentle and loving, forgiving and kind,
Full of compassion and service-inclined,
Rooted in faith and strong in position,
Here we are brought to glorious fruition.

"Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God."
Hebrews 12:1-2 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Riches

How miserable the rich man
When his life is all askew.
He maybe even envies
The poor and all they knew.

What he doesn't understand
Is that some "poor" are rich.
For they have gathered treasure
And in Jesus found their niche.

So they don't feel poor at all.
In Christ they are sustained.
The store of wealth they have in Him
Can't even be contained!

God's wisdom flows in many streams
And covers all their need...
Sufficient for a blessed life...
A healing flow indeed!

"For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, through he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich."
II Corinthians 8:9 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

So Much Beauty

If God could make oceans and mountains and skies,
Fill heaven with stars and make the sun rise,
If God could make seeds to grow from the ground
And create a tree or flowers which abound..

How could we question His caring and love,
Showered around us from Heaven above?
Should we not praise Him for all He has done?
Who could compare to Him? Not even one!

Our God is greater... beyond all we know,
The world we live in... one marvelous show
Of His love and beauty and wondrous delight,
A glorious display of power and might!

"O Lord our Lord, how excellent is thy name in all the earth."
Psalm 9:8 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Potter's Hands

To be clay in the Potter's hands is the greatest chance I will ever have to be beautiful...

And I must not try to determine what that beauty may be, or how the finished vessel may look. The Potter is skilled and infinitely wiser and more gifted than I can comprehend.

I am not able to fathom the depths of His creativity and need to be yielded and still in His hands, knowing that to be hand-hewn by the Lord is to become a vessel worthy of honor. He does not create second-rate vessels.

I am mere clay, but in Him I have promise. For He is a loving God and will ultimately make of me the best I can be.

"But now, O Lord, thou art our father; we are the clay, and thou our potter; and we are the work of thy hand."
Isaiah 64:8 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Crown For Mom

May God pour out blessing on Moms everywhere
And bring them reward for their love and their care,
For serving their families without self-concern.
The honors they get, they quietly earn.

A Mom should be honored for each simple task
She willingly does, e'en when you don't ask.
God knows her heart and hears all her prayer.
Of her deep concern He is always aware.

She labors to raise all her children up strong,
To teach them the Word, to know right from wrong.
She honors her husband and gives him strong cause
To utter her praise and offer "Hurrahs"!

Mom is the "glue" that holds home together.
She "covers" her family through storm and bad weather.
She offers encouragement, wisdom and wit.
She is the one who keeps family close-knit.

"She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness. Her children arise up, and call her blessed: her husband also, and he praiseth her."
Proverbs 31:27-28 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Friendship's Caring

The laughter of a caring friend
An aching heart will help to mend.
For love and laughter lift one up
And seem to empty sorrow's cup.

Friendship is a healing tie...
A special love we cannot buy.
It speaks a message of good cheer,
"I care for you and I am here."

It seems to make the sky more blue
To know that someone thinks of you.
It brightly causes hope to rise.
This is friendship's special prize.

"A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity."
Proverbs 17:17 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Aways Look Up

When there's nowhere to turn, I will always look up.
For though I be poor, God will give a full cup.
My soul and my spirit He surely will feed.
He is sufficient to meet all my need.

Though life whirls about me, I shall not thirst.
By His lovingkindness my life is immersed.
He gives inspiration and strength deep within
And pours out the confidence I need to win.

I will look up and in His promise dwell.
In Him I will prosper and surely excel!
I have no challenge which He cannot meet.
All my provision in Him is complete.

"The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want."
Psalm 23:1 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Shipwreck

I am seeing calamity in relationships all around me, and the root of the problem is a sharp tongue. James likens the tongue to the rudder of a large ship. "Look also at ships: although they are so large and are driven by fierce winds, they are turned by a very small rudder wherever the pilot desires." (James 3:4 NKJ)

In my spirit I see large ships in troubled water, sinking or listing to one side. The storms of life are all around them, but the rudders are not in order and the ships are out of control. This is a serious picture. Oceans are large and the waters are deep, so the stakes are high. The enemy is working to stir up strife, and a "rudder" (tongue) not submitted to Jesus can cause shipwreck. We truly need Jesus to pilot our lives.

This is a very destructive move of the enemy. He is working to destroy marriages, relationships, long-term friendships, parent-child relationships, balance in the workplace... anything he can do to isolate and separate people because he knows they are stronger when they stand together. This is a time when we need to draw close together in the Spirit, that we might stand strong in the days to come.

A tongue can be an instrument of great healing when submitted to the Lord Jesus Christ, but a sharp tongue will poke holes in the hull of a "boat" and cause it to sink. We should not be deceived in this. "No man can tame the tongue. It is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison." (James 3:8) We must be fully dependent on Jesus to overcome this unruly member within us.

"Therefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath; for the wrath of man does not produce the righteousness of God."
James 1:19 NKJ

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Eagles

The eagle's wing is strong in flight
And carries him to awesome height.
He will watch with long-range vision,
Seeing all with great precision.

If I could fly with eagle's wing,
Rising up o'er everything
And see the heav'ns with his keen eye,
I think to God I might come nigh.

"But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint."
Isaiah 40:31 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Hidden Gold

The "wise" are so schooled in thought and perception
They can't comprehend... they're caught in deception.
God uses the simple to confound the "wise"...
Those who are "high" in their very own eyes.

The world may deride the simple and plain
And totally miss who God would ordain.
His gold may be hidden where we least expect.
Those we look down on may be His elect.

So we must tread lightly, lest we should offend
God's "simple" because we don't comprehend.
We just do not know where He has stored "gold"...
In rich or in poor, in young or in old.

"But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise: and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty."
I Corinthians 1:27 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Great Lady

In loving memory of my mother,
Elsie Franzel
May 4, 1906 - February 11, 2007

When asked for her thoughts on just how to live,
She had some really good answers to give.
The first one was "Do what you know is right."
She lived by this daily with all of her might.

Working and "serving" wherever she was,
She tirelessly gave to others because...
She just couldn't seem to do any less.
She wouldn't ignore one who might have distress.

She often said, "Live so you'll have no regrets."
This was just one of her life's sermonettes.
By the work of her hands and her actions each day
Her life spoke volumes of wisdom to weigh.

She may have been small... the shortest of all,
But in memory she always will stand very tall.
She never had wealth but lived her life well.
She leaves rich reminiscence to tell and re-tell.

"Strength and honor are her clothing; she shall rejoice in time to come. She opens her mouth with wisdom, and on her tongue is the law of kindness. She watches over the ways of her household, and does not eat the bread of idleness. Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her. Many daughters have done well, but you excel them all."
Proverbs 31:25-29 NKJ

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Sharing His Light

Lord, let Your work in me have sway,
That all my labors might convey
Your precious light to hurting souls
And rescue some from sin's dark tolls.

Cause my life to stretch and bend,
That all I do Your love will send.
Make of me a lantern bright
To pierce through darkness when it's night.

Fill me with Your holy oil
To share with those who fret and toil.
Be my strength and might and power,
For many need you in this hour.

"How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!"
Romans 10:15 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Answered Prayer

God has not forgotten the prayers which you have prayed,
Nor forgotten sacrifice which you have gladly made.
He remembers every word. He keeps a good account,
And oft His answers come in miraculous amount.

His lovingkindness and His joy will always far exceed
Our expectations, hopes and dreams, fulfilling every need.
We do not have to ponder whether prayers are really heard.
Our God is faithful to His flock. Of this we are assured.

"Be careful for nothing; but in every trhing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus."
Philippians 4:6-7 KJV

© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Brick Upon Brick

Brick upon brick a strong wall is built,
With mortar to seal it so it will not tilt.
The key is the mortar... it keep things in place.
It may not show, but it makes a strong base.

Prayer is as mortar in all that we build.
Our "walls" will be strong if with prayer they're filled.
And if we add love to the mortar of prayer
Our walls will reflect the Master Bricklayer.

The temples and walls we build with our prayer
Will withstand life's storms and fierce wear and tear.
And e'en though our walls may seem rather humble,
With mortar of prayer these walls will not crumble.

"Except the Lord build the house, they labour in vain that build it..."
Psalm 127:1 KJV

© 2009 Arlene Schwartzkopf