This Is My Father's World
Sunday Morning Devotion: Week 21
Opening Prayer
Heavenly Father, you are the Creator and Sustainer of all that exists. This world belongs to you, and your glory is revealed in every corner of it. Help us to see your hand in the beauty around us, to hear your voice in creation’s song, and to rest in the knowledge that you reign. Though evil may seem strong, remind us today that you are still on the throne. Reassure us with your power, renew us by your presence, and help us rejoice in your reign. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
This Is My Father’s World
By Maltbie D. Babcock
This is my Father’s world,
And to my listening ears
All nature sings, and round me rings
The music of the spheres.
This is my Father’s world:
I rest me in the thought
Of rocks and trees, of skies and seas -
His hand the wonders wrought.This is my Father’s world:
The birds their carols raise,
The morning light, the lily white,
Declare their Maker’s praise.
This is my Father’s world:
He shines in all that’s fair;
In the rustling grass I hear him pass,
He speaks to me everywhere.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 earth be glad!
Key Principles from this Hymn
Creation proclaims the glory of God. All of nature bears witness to God’s majesty, wisdom, and care.
God is present and active in his world. We can discern his voice and handiwork in the beauty and order of creation.
God remains sovereign over evil and sorrow. Though wrong and suffering exist, God is still the Ruler, and his reign is certain.
Questions for Discussion and Personal Reflection
What specific elements of creation help you feel closer to God?
How does recognizing God’s ownership of the world shape the way you live and think?
When have you found peace by remembering that “God is the Ruler yet” in the midst of difficulty?
How do you experience God’s presence in everyday moments or in nature?
What helps you trust that God’s sovereignty will ultimately overcome all wrong?
How does this hymn encourage a posture of rest and joy in God?
What practical ways can you cultivate a deeper awareness of God’s presence in your surroundings?
Related Bible Verses to Reflect Upon
Psalm 24:1 - The earth is the Lord’s and the fullness thereof, the world and those who dwell therein.
Romans 1:20 - For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made.
Isaiah 40:28 - Have you not known? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth.
Colossians 1:16-17 - For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities - all things were created through him and for him. 17 And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together.
Revelation 11:15 - The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of his Christ, and he shall reign forever and ever.
Action Steps
Spend intentional time outdoors this week. Reflect on God’s creativity and sovereignty as you observe his handiwork in creation.
Memorize Psalm 24:1. Let this verse remind you that everything you see and experience ultimately belongs to God.
Worship God through the wonder of his world. Begin or end each day by praising God for one aspect of creation you observed or appreciated.
Prayer of Thanksgiving
Father of creation, we thank you that this is your world. From the smallest flower to the vast oceans, your hand has shaped all things. Thank you for revealing your majesty through what you have made and for speaking to us through the beauty of this earth. We praise you that even when wrong seems strong, you are still the Ruler. Help us to rest in your sovereignty, rejoice in your presence, and live with confidence and joy. In the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.
Prayer Prompts
Use the following prayer prompts to encourage you to pray beyond your usual prayer requests. These prompts are included here to help get your own creative juices flowing and not to be regarded as strict and legalistic requirements. Use them or do not use them according to your need. May the Lord bless you as you go deeper with him in the holy communion of prayer.
Petition - prayers for yourself
Lord, help me to faithfully participate in the life of my congregation and for the sake of my community…
By my prayers
By my presence
By my gifts
By my service
By my witness
Today’s events and interactions with others, planned and unplanned
Other needs
Intercession - prayers for others
My family
For those who serve in government, at the national, state, and local levels
For those who serve in law-enforcement
For those who serve in fire and rescue
For those who serve in our nation’s military
Other needs
Quotation from Church History
“Nature is but a name for an effect, whose cause is God.” (William Cowper)
Thank you again for joining me today. I pray this reflection has encouraged and blessed you. Feel free to share it with others and invite them to subscribe. New devotionals and resources are available each week. Discover more by clicking here: Walking Points.