For the beauty of the earth,
for the glory of the skies,
for the love which from our birth
over and around us lies.
Refrain:
Christ, our Lord, to you we raise
this, our grateful song of praise
For the wonder of each hour
of the day and of the night,
hill and vale and tree and flower,
sun and moon and stars of light,
Christ, our Lord, to you we raise
this, our grateful song of praise
For the joy of human love,
brother, sister, parent, child,
friends on earth, and friends above,
for all gentle thoughts and mild,
Lord of all, to you we raise
this, our grateful song of praise
For yourself, best gift divine,
to the world so freely given,
agent of God's grand design:
peace on earth and joy in heaven.
Lord of all, to you we raise
this, our grateful song of praise
For The Beauty of The Earth Video
For The Beauty of The Earth Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration
"For the Beauty of the Earth" is a hymn that has been cherished by many generations, expressing gratitude and reverence for the creation. The song, written by Folliott Sandford Pierpoint in 1864, encapsulates a deep appreciation for the natural world, human relationships, and the divine love that encompasses all of creation. Fountainview Academy, known for their dedication to performing sacred music that uplifts and inspires, released their rendition of this classic hymn as part of their musical offerings. Through their performance, they continue to spread the message of gratitude and praise for God's creation.
The hymn begins with an acknowledgment of the earth's beauty, from the "glory of the skies" to the intricate design of the natural world. Each verse builds upon this foundation, moving from the marvels of the environment to the joy found in human love and relationships, and finally to the greatest gift of all, the divine love freely given to the world. The refrain, "Lord of all, to you we raise this, our grateful song of praise," anchors the hymn, reiterating the central theme of gratitude and worship.
Playing "For the Beauty of the Earth" typically involves a moderate tempo that allows singers and listeners alike to reflect on the lyrics' profound meaning. The song is often played in the key of D major, which provides a bright and uplifting tonality. The chord progression supports the melody in a way that enhances the sense of wonder and praise inherent in the hymn.
Several Bible verses resonate with the themes found in "For the Beauty of the Earth." Psalm 95:4-5 says, "In his hand are the depths of the earth, and the mountain peaks belong to him. The sea is his, for he made it, and his hands formed the dry land." This passage echoes the hymn's appreciation for the natural world as God's creation. The acknowledgment of God as the creator of all things beautiful is a cornerstone of the hymn's message.
Another relevant verse is 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." This verse aligns with the hymn's recognition of the divine origin of all that is good and beautiful in the world, including the joy of human love and the peace that comes from God's presence.
Additionally, Colossians 1:16-17 reinforces the idea that all creation is an expression of God's glory: "For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him. He is before all things, and in him all things hold together." This passage encapsulates the hymn's celebration of creation as a reflection of the Creator's majesty and love.
The hymn's final verse speaks to the ultimate gift of divine love, a theme that is beautifully captured in John 3:16: "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." The gift of salvation and the promise of eternal joy in heaven are profound expressions of God's love for humanity, underscoring the hymn's message of gratitude for God's grand design.
Fountainview Academy's rendition of "For the Beauty of the Earth" serves as a powerful reminder of the countless reasons to offer praise and thanks to God. Through their music, they invite listeners to join in celebrating the beauty of creation, the joy of human relationships, and the boundless love of God that sustains and enriches our lives. The hymn encourages a posture of gratitude and worship, urging us to recognize and cherish the divine gifts that surround us each day.
The enduring appeal of "For the Beauty of the Earth" lies in its ability to stir hearts and minds toward a deeper appreciation of God's creation and a stronger commitment to stewardship and gratitude. Fountainview Academy's performance of this hymn contributes to the ongoing tradition of sacred music that inspires faith, nurtures the soul, and glorifies God. As listeners engage with the music and lyrics, they are invited into a space of reflection and worship, where the beauty of the earth becomes a gateway to encountering the divine.
