When the Bridegroom Comes (Warren)

Precious soul, prepare for the midnight call,
“Be ready when the Bridegroom comes”;
For the solemn change is awaiting all,
Be ready when the Bridegroom comes.

Refrain

Oh, be ready when the Bridegroom comes!
Oh, be ready when the Bridegroom comes!
Will your lamp be burning at the Lord’s returning?
Be ready when the Bridegroom comes.

Like the virgins wise fill your lamps with oil,
Be ready when the Bridegroom comes;
Let not sin your faithful efforts foil,
Be ready when the Bridegroom comes.

Refrain

Then avail yourself of a full supply,
Be ready when the Bridegroom comes;
Never idle sit till your lamp burns dry,
Be ready when the Bridegroom comes.

Refrain

Then awake, dear soul, you’re in sin’s dark night,
Be ready when the Bridegroom comes;
Let your lamp burn bright with a clear, good light,
Be ready when the Bridegroom comes.

Refrain

Do not sleep, pour soul, till your lamp goes out—
Be ready when the Bridegroom comes;
Till the Lord returns with a mighty shout,
Be ready when the Bridegroom comes.

Refrain

Author: Barney Elliott Warren

Year: 1900

The subtitle "(Warren)" in the title directly points to Barney Elliott Warren (1867–1951), a prominent Church of God (Anderson, IN) hymn writer and composer. He wrote both words and music for many gospel songs around 1900; this text matches his known output and style. No strong alternate attributions exist.