George Kent was probably as well and favorably known as anyone in town. His genial manner and pleasant ways had won for him many friends. Upright in his dealings, of temperate habits and good morals, why should he not be fairly well satisfied with himself? He was soon to find, however, that while all this served well for time, much, very much more was required for eternity.
Returning home from his office one day he felt very ill. A physician was called. After a careful examination he gravely advised him that the condition of his heart was very bad—so bad that only a brief time remained for him in this scene. Now for the first time in his life he considered the future seriously. For days he wept as he thought of what must be before him. He had through God's mercy been taught in early days to reverence His Word. To it he now turned, but only to find that with all his outward morality the demands of a holy God were far greater than he could meet. He, when thus "weighed in the balance, was found wanting.”
Reader, have you discovered that you, yea, that "all have sinned and come short of the glory of God?”
George Kent, having learned the truth about himself, like Job of old, wondered, "who can bring a clean thing out of an unclean?" He received the same answer as Job, "Not one.”
Man's extremity, however, is God's opportunity. Just when all seemed hopeless, George's eye fell upon that blessed verse, John 3:1616For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. (John 3:16). He read it over and over again. At last a light brighter than the sun broke into his soul. Calling his nurse he read, "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”
“Perish," he exclaimed. "Why I have been perishing all my life, and did not know it! Now by believing Jesus I have everlasting life and I can never perish.”
His sorrow now gave place to joy. During the short period that remained to him it was his delight to tell all his dear ones the good news of God's salvation through His blessed Son, Jesus.
Reader, may you also turn to and believe God's precious Word while it is yet today. If you neglect this, it may soon be too late. That word, "Come unto Me," will not always be sounded out. Instead you may hear, "Depart from Me; I know you not.”