This is My Father's World

This hymn was written as a poem in 1901 by American pastor Maltbie Babcock, inspired by the frequent walks he took amidst the natural beauty of upstate New York. It was set to music by Franklin Sheppard, adapting a traditional English melody.

Through the lyrics we are reminded that all of creation belongs to the Lord and is filled with God's divine love and beauty (Psalm 33:5, 50:12). We are encouraged to join in with all nature in worshipping God (Psalm 148). We are also reminded that regardless of our circumstances, whether roaming through deserts or standing face-to-face with wrong, the Lord is still King and will one day make all things right (Romans 8:18-25; Isaiah 65:17-25).

Song Category:

Hymn

Writer(s):

Maltbie D. Babcock

Music/Tune:

Franklin Sheppard (Terra Beata)

Languages:

English

BPM:

Recommended Keys:

C, D, Eb

CCLI #6167640 (Public Domain)

Scripture Reference:

Psalm 19; 24:1; 33:5; 50:12; 1 Corinthians 15:25; Romans 8:18-25; Isaiah 65:17-25

Themes:

Adoration, Creation, Assurance

First Line:

This is my Father's world, and to my listening ears

Lyrics:

INTRO
C F/C G/C F/C

VERSE 1
C F/C G/C
This is my Father's world,

F/C G/C
and to my listening ears

C G/C F/C C
all nature sings, and round me rings

F/C G/C C
the music of the spheres.

C F/C G/C
This is my Father's world:

F/C G/C
I rest me in the thought

C G/C F/C C
of rocks and trees, of skies and seas;

Dm G/B
his hand the wonders wrought.

INTERLUDE
C F/C G/C F/C (x2)

VERSE 2
C F/C C
This is my Father's world,

F C/E Dm G/B
the birds their carols raise,

C E7 Am C/E
the morning light, the lily white,

F G/B C
declare their maker's praise.

C F C/E
This is my Father's world:

Dm G/B
he shines in all that's fair;

C E7 Am C/E
in the rustling grass I hear him pass;

F G C F/C G/C F/C
he speaks to me everywhere.

VERSE 3
This is my Father’s world. I walk a desert lone.
In a bush ablaze to my wondering gaze
God makes His glory known.
This is my Father’s world, a wanderer I may roam
Whatever my lot, it matters not,
My heart is still at home.

VERSE 4
This is my Father's world.
O let me ne'er forget
that though the wrong seems oft so strong,
God is the ruler yet.
This is my Father's world:
why should my heart be sad?
The Lord is King; let the heavens ring!
God reigns; let the earth be glad!

OPTIONAL CODA
This is my Father’s world:
The battle is not done
Jesus who died shall be satisfied
And earth and heaven be one.

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This is My Father's World