A dangerous railway crossing was the source of many an accident. No warning put up seemed sufficiently clear to arouse attention. So a prize was offered for the best notice. Many suggestions were made. The prize-winner was simple and plain. It was this STOP LOOK BOTH WAYS LISTEN It called for immediate observance and for the exercise of the faculties of sight and hearing. Being placed at the danger point, it helped avert many an accident.
Shall we think of this sign in connection with the future of every traveler on the road of time? We are in danger of going into eternity unprepared, and we do well to STOP and consider whither we are bound: HEAVEN or HELL everlasting life or everlasting punishment. Our Lord Jesus, who spoke as never man spake, and loved as never man loved, Himself warns us to halt and to give thought. It is a day of rush and hurry, of hustle and bustle, and the things of time and sense attract and engage the mind. But we are creatures of so little a time here, and creatures of so long a time hereafter, that to stop awhile before we go further is but wisdom. Indeed, it is folly in the extreme to go on with our eyes closed to the future.
The prudent man for seeth the evil and hideth himself. The simple pass on and are punished.
Prudent or foolish, which shall we be?
Stop, and consider your latter end.
LOOK BOTH WAYS
Look up the line and down the line with care. Look back on your past history— look forward to that which lies before you.
Your sins are following you apace. They will catch you up in the Day of Judgment unless they are blotted out by the precious blood of Christ. So much for the glance at the past.
What lies in front? Christ is coming for His own. Any moment the door of grace may close. Then many who intended to be inside will find themselves outside forever.
Knocking at the door will be of no use. The word from within will be, "I know you not.”
But LISTEN
The sounds of approaching judgment warn you. The words of gospel grace fall on your ears. Oh, listen! Heed the warning, accept the invitation. The Savior says, "Him that cometh to Me I will in no wise cast out.”
Never did he refuse a sinner who came to him. Never was a sin-sick one found who could not be healed by Him, the Great Physician. He has saved the chief of sinners.
He can save you even now. Turn then to Christ! You will find in Him a present help, a Friend who is mighty to save.