By C. T. Studd, missionary to China, India and Africa (1860-1931)
Two little lines I heard one day, Traveling along life’s busy way;
Bringing conviction to my heart, And from my mind would not depart;
Only one life, ‘twill soon be past, Only what’s done for Christ will last.
Only one life, yes only one, Soon will its fleeting hours be done;
Then, in ‘that day’ my Lord to meet, And stand before His judgment seat;
Only one life, ‘twill soon be past, Only what’s done for Christ will last.
Only one life, the still small voice, Gently pleads for a better choice
Bidding me selfish aims to leave, and to God’s holy will to cleave;
Only one life, ‘twill soon be past, Only what’s done for Christ will last.
Only one life, a few brief years, Each with its burdens, hopes and fears;
Each with its days I must fulfill, Living for self or in His will;
Only one life, ‘twill soon be past, Only what’s done for Christ will last.
When this bright world would tempt me sore, When Satan would a victory score;
When self would seek to have its way, Then help me, Lord, with joy to say;
Only one life, ‘twill soon be past, Only what’s done for Christ will last.
Give me Father, a purpose deep, In joy or sorrow Thy Word to keep;
Faithful and true what e’er the strife, Pleasing Thee in my daily life;
Only one life, ‘twill soon be past, Only what’s done for Christ will last.
Oh let my love with fervor burn, And from the world not let me turn;
Living for Thee, and Thee alone, Bringing Thee pleasure on Thy throne;
Only one life, ‘twill soon be past, Only what’s done for Christ will last.
Only one life, yes only one, Now let me say, “Thy will be done”;
And when at last I’ll hear the call, I know I’ll say, “‘Twas worth it all”;
Only one life, ‘twill soon be past, Only what’s done for Christ will last.
