Hymns (1948, 1979), no. 73
Improve the Shining Moments

1. Improve the shining moments; Don’t let them pass you by; Work while the sun is radiant; Work, for the night draws nigh. We cannot bid the sunbeams To lengthen out their stay, Nor can we ask the shadow To ever stay away.

2. Time flies on wings of lightning; We cannot call it back; It comes, then passes forward Along its onward track; And if we are not mindful, The chance will fade away; For life is quick in passing. ’Tis as a single day.

3. As wintertime doth follow The pleasant summer days, So may our joys all vanish And pass far from our gaze. Then should we not endeavor Each day some point to gain, That we may here be useful, And every wrong disdain?

4. Improve each shining moment; In this you are secure, For promptness bringeth safety And blessings rich and pure. Let prudence guide your actions; Be honest in your heart; And God will love and bless you And help to you impart.