For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?
Matthew 16:26
Words: H. F. James, 1901.
Music: William T. Dale (🔊 pdf nwc).
If you know James’ full name, or where to get a good photo of him (head & shoulders, at least 200×300 pixels), or a better one of Dale,
As you strive for the world,
For its fame and its joy,
Have you carefully counted the cost?
Is the prize rich enough
All your strength to employ,
When to win it the soul must be lost?
Refrain
Are you carefully counting the cost?
Have you thought what it means to be lost?
For the joys that decline,
Do you Heaven resign?
Are you counting the terrible cost?
In the craving for wealth,
For its glittering show,
Into grief and despair you are cast;
And you know not the peace
Heav’n alone can bestow,
While your soul will be lost at the last.
Refrain
Leave the riches of earth;
Seek the treasures above,
And thro’ years that unceasingly roll,
Heav’nly pow’rs shall be yours
With the fullness of love,
And the life, endless life of the soul.
Refrain