Hymn-Theology: Though the Wrong Seems Oft So Strong

“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.”

Maltbie D. Babcock – “This Is My Father’s World” 1901

Lately, I’ve been listening to Jadon Lavik’s Roots Run Deep CD featuring his interpretation of hymns.  This line:  “though the wrong seems oft so strong, God is the ruler yet” (This Is My Father’s World) has struck me intensely.

There are so many times that we question the way God rules.  We think, can this really be God’s world?  How can the Father allow this or that to happen? (Which is the first lie–but another blog.)

Psalm 24:1 tells us that the “earth is the Lord’s and everything in it.”  Yet Ephesians tells us that we wrestle against the rulers of darkness.

So which is it?

Yes.

There is no authority that God hasn’t given (Rom 13:1).  Since all authority originates from Him, then it’s logical that He, in His Sovereignty, has allowed the wrongs which often seem overwhelming, strong, and irrefutable.  He even has given authority to Satan.

We know from the story of Job that Satan had permission from God to test him (Job 1:8-12, Job 2:3-6).

That being said, HE is still the Ruler.  He is going to judge the world.

That hope of vindication and justice should cause us to rest in the shadow of His wings, under His protection–not to take it upon ourselves to seek vengeance.

1 Peter 2:12 NLT

Be careful to live properly among your unbelieving neighbors. Then even if they accuse you of doing wrong, they will see your honorable behavior, and they will give honor to God when he judges the world.

Revelation 1:5 NLT

…Jesus Christ, the faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler over the kings of the earth…

For Thought & Discussion:

• Why Did I Write this?
• What are your thoughts about this stanza?
• Are there any other verses that back up this hymn theologically?
• Have you used this song lately?  Have you explained it?