p. 63 | Waiting for What? by J. C. Ryle

International Tract and Missionary Society · Oakland, Cal. · Jan 28, 1886

Waiting for What?

By J. C. Ryle

MANY are to be found in our churches who know the truth and approve it. They mean one day to be decided followers of Christ; but at present something hinders them. Is this your state of soul? Listen to me while I press upon your conscience a simple question. Do not turn away from it; sit down and answer it if you can: What are you waiting for?

Are you waiting till you are sick and nigh unto death? Surely you will not tell me that is a convenient season. When your body is racked with pain,—when your mind is distracted with all kinds of anxious thoughts,—is this a time to begin the mighty work of acquaintance with God?

Are you waiting till you have leisure? And when do you expect to have more time than you have now? Every year you live seems shorter than the last; you find more to think of or to do, and less power and opportunity to do it. And, after all, you know not whether you may live to see another year. Boast not yourself of to-morrow—now is the time.

Are you waiting till your heart is perfectly fit and ready? That will never be. It will always be corrupt and sinful—a bubbling fountain, full of evil. Delay not; better begin as you are.

Are you waiting till the devil will let you come to Christ without trouble? That will never be. If you would be saved, you must fight for it.

Are you waiting till the gate is wide open? That will never be. It will not alter. It is wide enough for the chief of sinners, if he comes in a humble and self-abased spirit. But if there is any little sin you are resolved not to give up, you will never, with all your struggling, get in.

And are you waiting because some few Christians are inconsistent, and some professors fall away? Hear the word of the Lord Jesus. "What is that to thee? follow thou me."

Oh, lingering friend, are not your excuses broken reeds? Are not your reasonings and defenses unprofitable and vain? Be honest; confess the truth. You have no good reason for waiting. This day I charge you to throw away indecision, wait no longer, be decided for Christ, lest waiting, your soul should be lost—forever lost.—Rev. J. C. Ryle.