Traditional Hymns
Children of the Heavenly Father
Children of the Heavenly Father
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Children of the Heavenly Father (.midi) Children of the Heavenly Father (.mp3) Children of the Heavenly Father Bells Version (.mp3)
1. Children of the Heavenly Father Safely in His bosom gather Nestling bird nor star in heaven Such a refuge e'er was given
2. God His own doth tend and nourish In His holy courts they flourish From all evil things He spares them In His mighty arms He bears them
3. Neither life nor death shall ever From the Lord His children sever Unto them His grace He showeth And their sorrows all He knoweth
4. Though He giveth or He taketh God His children ne'er forsaketh His the loving purpose solely To preserve them pure and holy
5. Lo their very hairs He numbers And no daily care encumbers Them that share His ev'ry blessing And His help in woes distressing
6. Praise the Lord in joyful numbers Your Protector never slumbers At the will of your Defender Ev'ry foe man must surrender.
Story of the hymn Children of the Heavenly Father
"Children of the Heavenly Father" is a hymn born out of deep personal sorrow and resilient faith. Its text was written by Carolina (Caroline) Sandell Berg (1832 to 1903), one of Sweden’s most beloved hymn writers, whose life was marked by both profound devotion and repeated tragedy.Carolina Sandell was the daughter of a Lutheran pastor and grew up in a home shaped by Scripture, prayer, and hymn singing. As a young woman, she became known for her poetic gifts and strong evangelical faith. Her life took a decisive turn in 1858, when she witnessed the sudden drowning of her father during a boat journey across Lake Vättern. He fell overboard and died before her eyes. This devastating loss left a permanent imprint on her theology and hymn writing.
In the years that followed, Sandell wrote hymns that emphasized childlike trust in God, divine providence, and the tender care of a heavenly Father who watches over His children even through suffering. "Children of the Heavenly Father" reflects this theme clearly. The hymn is rooted in biblical assurances, especially passages such as Matthew 6:26 to 34 and Psalm 103:13, which speak of God’s fatherly compassion and faithful provision.
Rather than denying pain, the hymn acknowledges hardship while affirming that believers are never abandoned. Lines such as "though He giveth or He taketh, God His children ne’er forsaketh" reveal a faith refined by loss, not sheltered from it. The tone is gentle, pastoral, and reassuring, offering comfort to those facing uncertainty, grief, or fear.
Originally written in Swedish under the title "Tryggare kan ingen vara" ("No one can be more secure"), the hymn was later translated into English by Ernst W. Olson, helping it gain wide acceptance in English speaking churches. It has since become a staple in Lutheran, Methodist, and other Protestant hymnals, often sung at baptisms, funerals, and services emphasizing God’s care.
Today, "Children of the Heavenly Father" endures as a testimony to steadfast faith amid suffering. Through simple yet profound language, Caroline Sandell invites believers to rest in the unchanging love of God, confident that they are held securely as His children, whatever circumstances they may face.
