Chris Tomlin - Father of Lights Lyrics
Lyrics
I don’t thank You near enough
I get too familiar with Your love
Lord forgive me for missing all the little things You’ve done
How You gave me 12 notes
And the breath in my lungs
And I’m gonna praise You with this one
Every good thing in my life
Comes down from the Father of lights
It comes down from the Father
Down from the Father
Down from the Father of lights
All the best things in this world
Money just can’t buy
They come down from the Father, down from the Father
Down from the Father of Lights
Down, down, down, from the Father of the light
I remember where I was
Out of strength nowhere to run
I’m so glad that You ran to me and picked me up
And You gave me 12 notes
And the breath in my lungs
And I’m gonna praise You with this one
If the world didn’t give it, the world can’t take it away
Chris Tomlin - Father Of Lights (Lyric Video)
Video
Chris Tomlin - Father Of Lights (Lyric Video)
Meaning & Inspiration
Chris Tomlin’s "Father of Lights," released on September 9, 2022, as part of his album *Always*, is a profound testament to divine providence and human gratitude. The song immediately establishes a posture of humble reflection, opening with an honest admission: "I don’t thank You near enough, I get too familiar with Your love." This sentiment resonates deeply, acknowledging the human tendency to take for granted the very source of life and blessing, prompting a prayer for forgiveness for overlooking the "little things" God has done. It’s a recognition that even the most fundamental elements of existence, such as the "breath in my lungs" and the creative ability to produce "12 notes," are divine gifts, inspiring a commitment to use these gifts for praise. This introspective beginning sets the stage for a worship experience that moves beyond mere acknowledgment to active adoration.
The core theological assertion of the song, and indeed its namesake, is powerfully declared in the chorus: "Every good thing in my life comes down from the Father of lights." This line is a direct echo of James 1:17, which states, "Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows." Tomlin masterfully distills this profound truth, reminding us that every genuine blessing, every moment of grace, originates from God's unchanging character. The lyrics further emphasize this by contrasting divine gifts with worldly possessions, asserting that "All the best things in this world, money just can’t buy," highlighting treasures like peace, joy, and eternal security that transcend material value, echoing Jesus’ words in Matthew 6:19-21 about storing up treasures in heaven. This section serves as a powerful reminder to reorient our desires and gratitude towards the eternal Giver rather than fleeting earthly acquisitions.
The song then shifts to a personal testimony, recalling a moment of desperate need: "I remember where I was, out of strength nowhere to run." This paints a vivid picture of human vulnerability and helplessness, a state many can relate to. The subsequent declaration, "I’m so glad that You ran to me and picked me up," beautifully illustrates God's compassionate pursuit and redemptive power, reminiscent of the father welcoming his prodigal son in Luke 15:20 or the Psalmist’s experience of being lifted from the pit in Psalm 40:2. This personal encounter with divine rescue reinforces the theme of God's active involvement in our lives, not just as a distant creator but as an intimately present redeemer. The reiteration of using the "12 notes and the breath in my lungs" to praise Him underscores the personal commitment born out of this rescue.
The bridge offers a resilient and hopeful declaration: "If the world didn’t give it, the world can’t take it away." This statement solidifies the eternal nature of God's blessings and promises, providing profound comfort and security. It reassures us that the love, salvation, and spiritual gifts bestowed by God are not subject to the whims, misfortunes, or malevolence of the earthly realm. This echoes John 10:28-29, where Jesus assures us that no one can snatch His sheep out of His hand or His Father’s hand. "Father of Lights" is more than just a song; it's a theological affirmation set to music, serving as a spiritual anchor in a shifting world. It inspires a deep sense of gratitude, not only for the grandeur of creation but for the intimate, personal care of a God who sees, saves, and blesses, reminding us to continually praise the unchanging source of every good gift.