The cultivation of an insignificant life

(J.H. Jowett)

It is possible to evade a multitude of trials by the cultivation of an insignificant life.
 

Only One Life!

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 Your word to keep;
Faithful and true what e'er the strife,
Pleasing You 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 now let me turn;
Living for You, and You alone,
Bringing You pleasure on Your 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, "Your 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!
        by C.T. Studd, 1860–1931
 

"Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you.
 Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you
 know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain." 1 Corinthians 15:58