ONLY ONE LIFE

 This poem was written by Charles Thomas Studd, a renowned cricketer from a wealthy family in England. When he was saved, he gave up his position and fame in England and became a missionary, first to China, then to India, and finally to Africa where he died in 1931. While serving in India, he became engaged to Priscilla. Due to the demands of missionary service they were often separated, and he taught her to repeat daily these words: "Jesus, I love thee, thou art to me, dearer than Charlie ever could be." He expected Christ to occupy first place in every area of life.

    C. T. Studd, like ourselves, was not perfect, but he was different from many Christians in that he gave his all for Christ. His poem has motivated many a believer to make life count for the Lord. Perhaps it will be that way with you, dear reader.

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 now 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.

 

 

 

we also recommend his booklet "The Chocolate Soldier"

and his biography written by Norman Grubb, C. T. Studd, Cricketer and Pioneer