My Bible Alone
Lyrics
1. God of our fathers, whose almighty hand
Leads forth in beauty all the starry band
Of shining worlds in splendor through the skies,
Our grateful songs before Thy throne arise.
2. Thy love divine hath led us in the past,
In this free land by Thee our lot is cast;
Be Thou our Ruler, Guardian, Guide, and Stay,
Thy Word our law, Thy paths our chosen way.
3. From war’s alarms, from deadly pestilence,
Be Thy strong arm our ever-sure defense;
Thy true religion in our hearts increase,
Thy bounteous goodness nourish us in peace.
4. Refresh thy people on their toilsome way;
Lead us from night to never ending day;
Fill all our lives with love and grace divine,
And glory, laud, and praise be ever Thine!
“God of Our Fathers”: The Patriotic Hymn of a Nation’s Gratitude
In the vibrant tapestry of American hymnody, the hymn “God of Our Fathers” holds a place of distinction, emerging from a confluence of history, faith, and national pride. Penned in 1876 by Daniel C. Roberts, an Episcopal priest and veteran of the American Civil War, this hymn was composed to mark the centennial celebration of the United States Declaration of Independence.
The Author and His Inspiration
Daniel C. Roberts, the author of “God of Our Fathers,” served as rector of St. Thomas & Grace Episcopal churches in Brandon, Vermont. His experiences as a soldier in the 84th Ohio Infantry during the Civil War deeply influenced his sense of national identity and spiritual conviction. Roberts’ hymn reflects a time of reflection and gratitude, where the country looked back on a century of growth and trials.
The Making of a National Hymn
In 1892, as the Episcopal Church was revising its hymnal, Roberts submitted his hymn anonymously to the General Convention. Upon its approval, he revealed his authorship. The hymn was set to a tune called “Russian Hymn,” but it was George W. Warren, a hymnal editor and organist, who composed the majestic tune “National Hymn,” which would carry Roberts’ words into the hearts of the American people.
Biblical Foundations
The robust and reverent lyrics of “God of Our Fathers” draw inspiration from Psalm 46:1, which declares, “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” This verse underscores the hymn’s themes of divine sovereignty and providential care, reflecting a nation’s reliance on God’s guidance through both prosperity and adversity.
Significance and Legacy
The hymn’s centennial origin, coupled with its subsequent adoption for the celebration of the Centennial of the United States Constitution, cemented its place as a song of patriotism. It speaks to a collective gratitude for the blessings of liberty and the plea for continued grace and guidance.
As the United States faced the varying storms of its journey, “God of Our Fathers” has been a rallying cry of unity, a solemn prayer, and a declaration of dependence on a higher power. It is more than a hymn; it is a historical testament to the enduring faith and resilience of the American spirit.
A Song for the Ages
Today, “God of Our Fathers” is not merely an echo of the past; it is a living melody that continues to resonate at national ceremonies and in the quiet corners of personal reflection. It encapsulates the hope that the same divine hand that led past generations will continue to lead in the future.
Daniel C. Roberts’ contribution through this hymn remains a significant artifact of American religious and cultural history. It serves as a reminder that the nation’s greatest strength lies in its humble acknowledgment of dependence on God’s eternal wisdom and protection, a message as relevant now as it was over a century ago.
