What will it profit, when life here is o'er,
Though great worldly wisdom I gain,
If, seeking knowledge, I utterly fail
The wisdom of God to obtain?

What will it profit, when life here is o'er
Though gathering riches and fame,
If, gaining the world, I lose my own soul,
And in heaven unknown is my name?

What will it profit, when life here is o'er,
Though earth's farthest corners I see,
If, going my way and doing my will,
I miss what His love planned for me?

What will it profit, when life here is o'er,
Tho' earth's fleeting love has been mine,
If, seeking its gifts, I fail to secure
The riches of God's love divine?

What will it profit? My soul, stop to think,
What balance that day will declare!
When life's record's laid bare—
Will gain turn to loss, and despair?

—Grace E. Troy