Time is earnest, passing by ; Death is earnest, drawing nigh ; Sinner, wilt thou trifling be ? Time and death appeal to thee.
2. Life is earnest ; when 'tis o'er. Thou returnest nevermore ; Soon to meet eternity, Wilt thou never serious be ?
3. God is earnest, kneel and pray Ere thy season pass away ; Ere be set His judgment-throne, Vengeance ready, mercy gone.
4. Oh, be earnest ! death is near ; Thou wilt perish lingering here : Sleep no longer, rise and flee ; Lo, thy Saviour waits for thee !