Sir James Young Simpson, M.D., who introduced the use of chloroform in surgical operations in England, became well known in Christian work as well as in the world of surgery and medicine. The story of his conversion to God is interesting.
His outward life had been markedly consistent in religious observance. He knew and practiced the external forms of Christianity, but its vital power was unknown to him. 2 Timothy 3:55Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away. (2 Timothy 3:5) would apply: "Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof.”
A patient of his, a lady who was often a recipient of his kindness, was an earnest and devoted Christian. She prayerfully sought his conversion. Again and again she wrote pleading with him to accept the Savior. In one of her letters she asked a question of mighty import: “What is to fill your heart through all eternity? When benevolence shall have run its course; when there shall be no sick to heal, no disease to cure; when all you have been engaged about comes to dead stop; what then is to fill your heart, and thought, and powers of mind?
“If in your heart you would have eternal peace then, and wondrous joy throughout the endless ages, only God can be your Resource. If then He can, why not now? BUT if not NOW, it cannot be THEN.”
Through this question he was led to Christ and soon began to engage in definite Christian service.
Do you too intend to be saved at the end? "If then, why not now?" Christ alone can meet the claims of your conscience or satisfy the longings of your heart. But He can do both, and He can do them NOW.