HIS LAST WORDS

Some years ago, in Germany, a young man lay upon the operating table of hospital. A skilled surgeon stood near, a group of students round about.

Presently, bending over the patient, the surgeon said: "My friend, if you wish to say anything, you now have the opportunity, but I must warn you that your words will be the last words that you will ever utter. (He had cancer of the tongue.) Think well, therefore, what you wish to say."

You can readily imagine that such a statement at such a time would give pause to anyone. The young man therefore waited, apparently lost in deep thought. A deep solemnity settled over the faces of the onlookers. What words would he choose for such an occasion?

The students bent eagerly forward. Some time passed & then the lips at last parted & at the sound of his voice you could have seen tears swim in the eyes of those present: "Thank God, Jesus Christ!"

- Evangelical Visitor. (moreillustrations.com)

1Th 5:18 (KJV): "In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you."

"Longing desire prayeth always, though the tongue be silent. If thou art ever longing, thou art ever praying."  - Augustine.