As the Life of a Flower
A Sermon based on the Hymn
As the Life of a Flower
by Laura E. Newell
Introduction:
“As the Life of a Flower” is a solemn and poetic hymn that reminds us of
the frailty of human life and the urgency of living faithfully before
God. Life on earth, like a flower, is brief, fragile, and beautiful—yet
it does not endure forever. Written by Laura E. Newell and set to music
by L.O. Sanderson, the hymn speaks directly to the heart of every
listener who has contemplated mortality and eternity. It echoes the
biblical truth found in James 4:14: “For what is your life? It
is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away.”
This hymn urges us toward spiritual wisdom and sober
reflection. While life passes swiftly, it can be filled with purpose and
faithfulness. The final reward is shaped by how we live the time we are
given. As our bodies grow older and our time shortens, our souls can
become stronger and more prepared to meet the Lord.
Each stanza encourages us to focus on what has eternal
value. It invites people of every age to consider the limited nature of
earthly life and the lasting importance of faithful choices. As we sing
and study this hymn, may we be stirred to live righteously, think
clearly, and prepare well for the life that endures.
Stanza One – “As the life of a flower, as a
breath or a sigh”
The first stanza uses vivid imagery from Isaiah 40:6–8 and
Psalm 103:15–16 to portray life’s transience. Just as a flower
blooms brightly and soon fades, our lives quickly pass from youth to
age. “So the years that we live as a dream hasten by” speaks to the
common human experience—time moves quickly, and our lives feel like
dreams that vanish upon waking. This calls us to careful and wise
living. Ephesians 5:15–16 teaches us to “walk circumspectly…
redeeming the time, because the days are evil.”
Stanza Two – “As the life of a flower be our
lives pure and sweet”
This stanza presents the idea that while time is limited, it can still
be used well. “May we brighten the way for the friends that we greet”
reminds us to influence others through kindness, love, and spiritual
encouragement. Matthew 5:16 calls us to let our light shine
before others. Our goal is to leave behind examples and memories that
reflect godly living. “And sweet incense arise from our works when
complete” brings to mind Revelation 5:8, where the prayers and
lives of the saints are pictured as incense before God.
Stanza Three – “While we tarry below let us
trust and adore”
This final verse offers a prayerful focus. As we await our eternal home,
we strive to trust and worship the Lord. Proverbs 3:5–6 teaches
us to rely completely on God’s wisdom. “Let us teach all the dear ones
the way to the shore” emphasizes the responsibility to guide others
toward salvation. Our journey is not solitary; it influences and helps
others. “Till the sun rolls away and we meet evermore” paints a picture
of the end of life giving way to eternal reunion, as described in 1
Thessalonians 4:17–18.
Chorus – “We are here but today, gone tomorrow
may be”
The chorus expresses a clear truth. Life is uncertain and short. But for
those who live faithfully, it leads to a glorious beginning. Hebrews
9:27 states that “it is appointed unto men once to die, but after
this the judgment.” “Then this life will appear in its morning to thee”
offers the hopeful image of resurrection and eternal day. 2 Timothy
4:6–8 points to the crown prepared for those who remain steadfast
in the faith.
As the Life of a Flower Sermon Outline:
Stanza 1: Life Is Brief and Fleeting
- James 4:14; Isaiah 40:6–8; Psalm 103:15–16
- Life passes quickly, like a breath or flower
- Time must be used wisely (Ephesians 5:15–16)
Stanza 2: Life Should Be Beautiful in
Character
- Matthew 5:16; Revelation 5:8
- Goodness, purity, and kindness should mark our
days
- Our works are remembered and accepted before God
Stanza 3: Life Must Be Lived in Trust and
Witness
- Proverbs 3:5–6; 1 Thessalonians 4:17–18
- We trust in God as we await eternity
- We guide others to Christ while there is time
Chorus: Life Will Give Way to Eternity
- Hebrews 9:27; 2 Timothy 4:6–8
- Death comes quickly, and for the faithful, it
opens into eternal morning
- Live each day in preparation for meeting the Lord
Call to Action:
What will your life mean when it is over? Will your days reflect the
character of Christ? Will your memory bring encouragement and hope? Time
is short. But each moment is an opportunity to obey the gospel, follow
Jesus, and influence others for good. Live righteously. Speak
faithfully. Love deeply. Worship daily. Though life is short, the soul
continues. Let yours be ready to meet God.
Key Takeaways:
- Life is short, like a flower or a breath (James
4:14)
- We must use our time wisely and walk in purity (Ephesians
5:15–16)
- Good deeds are remembered by God and bring Him
glory (Revelation 5:8)
- We must teach others and trust God as we journey
toward eternity (Proverbs 3:5–6)
- Death is followed by eternal life for those who
remain faithful (2 Timothy 4:6–8)
Scripture Reference List:
- James 4:14 – Life
is a vapor
- Isaiah 40:6–8 –
The flower fades, but God’s Word stands forever
- Psalm 103:15–16 –
Man’s days are like grass
- Ephesians 5:15–16
– Redeem the time
- Matthew 5:16 – Let
your light shine
- Revelation 5:8 –
Prayers of the saints as incense
- Proverbs 3:5–6 –
Trust in the Lord
- 1 Thessalonians 4:17–18
– Ever be with the Lord
- Hebrews 9:27 –
Appointed to die, then judgment
- 2 Timothy 4:6–8 –
Crown of life for the faithful
Song History:
“As the Life of a Flower” was written by Laura E. Newell, a 19th-century
poet known for devotional works. The music was composed by L.O.
Sanderson, a prolific hymn composer in the churches of Christ. This hymn
has long been used in memorials and gospel invitations due to its
message of reflection and readiness. Its melody and message gently urge
us to live with eternity in view.
Prepared by David Hersey of the church of
Christ at Granby, MO
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