Robert Murray M'Cheyne urges children to seek salvation early in life, emphasizing the fleeting nature of life and the pleasure of finding rest in Christ.
Robert Murray M'Cheyne emphasizes the urgency of coming to Christ, especially for children, as life is fleeting and uncertain. He draws parallels between the brevity of life and the fragility of flowers, urging the young to seek the Savior while there is still time. M'Cheyne reflects on the joy of knowing God from a young age, as exemplified by Samuel, and encourages children to find rest in Jesus. He reassures that even in death, those who trust in Christ can find peace and joy. The sermon serves as a heartfelt call for the youth to embrace faith early in their lives.
Text
Like mist on the mountain,
Like ships on the sea,
So swiftly the years
Of our pilgrimage flee;
In the grave of our fathers
How soon we shall lie!
Dear children, to-day
To a Saviour fly.
How sweet are the flowerets
In April and may!
But often the frost makes
Them wither away.
Like flowers you may fade:
Are you ready to die?
While "yet there is room"
To a Saviour fly.
When Samuel was young,
He first knew the Lord,
He slept in His smile
And rejoiced in His word.
So most of God's children
Are early brought nigh:
Oh, seek Him in youth -
To a saviour fly.
Do you ask me for pleasure?
Then lean on His breast,
For there the sin laden
And weary find rest.
In the valley of death
You will triumphing cry -
"If this be called dying,
'Tis pleasant to die!"
Jan. 1, 1831
Sermon Outline
- The Fleeting Nature of Life
- The Importance of Early Salvation
- The Pleasure of Salvation
- The Call to Salvation
- To a Saviour, fly
- There is still room
Key Quotes
“Like mist on the mountain, Like ships on the sea, So swiftly the years Of our pilgrimage flee;” — Robert Murray M'Cheyne
“In the valley of death You will triumphing cry - 'If this be called dying, 'Tis pleasant to die!'” — Robert Murray M'Cheyne
“To a Saviour, fly” — Robert Murray M'Cheyne
Application Points
- Seek God in your youth to deepen your faith and connection with Him.
- Reflect on your relationship with God and be prepared to die in faith.
- Find rest and peace in Christ, especially in times of hardship and weariness.
