Time is earnest, passing by;
Deathe is earnest, drawing night.
Sinner, wilt thou trifling be?
Time and death appeal to thee.

Life is earnest, when 'tis o'er,
Thou returnest nevermore!
Soon to meet eternity,
Wilt thou never serious be?

God is earnest; kneel and pray,
Ere thy season pass away;
Ere be set his judgement throne,
Vengeance ready, mercy gone.

O be earnest; death is near,
Thou wilt perish, ling'ring here;
Sleep no longer, rise and flee;
Lo, thy Savior waits for thee!