All Things Are Thine

“All Things Are Thine” is a reflective and reverent hymn written by John Greenleaf Whittier, one of the most respected American poets of the nineteenth century. Whittier was a member of the Society of Friends, also known as the Quakers, and his hymns often carry a quiet, thoughtful tone shaped by simplicity, humility, and deep spiritual insight. This hymn reflects his conviction that everything in creation belongs to God and that human stewardship must be guided by gratitude, obedience, and trust. The text draws directly from the spirit of Psalm twenty four, which declares that the earth is the Lord’s, along with everything in it. Whittier uses gentle and meditative language to remind believers that every blessing and every gift finds its origin in the goodness of God.

The hymn acknowledges that all wealth, skill, strength, and opportunity are entrusted to believers for the purpose of honoring God. Nothing belongs to humanity in an ultimate sense, for everything returns to the truth that God is the Giver of life. This perspective encourages the worshiper to approach stewardship with humility rather than pride. It teaches that giving to the Lord is not an act of loss but a joyful recognition that all possessions come from His hand in the first place. Whittier’s words invite the singer to see generosity as an expression of love, gratitude, and sincere devotion.

Throughout the hymn, the tone remains calm, reflective, and grounded in Scripture. There is no call to grand displays or emotional excess. Instead, Whittier gently directs the heart to consider the grace of God who supplies every need and invites His people to use their gifts for His glory. The hymn continues to be cherished because it speaks to the timeless truth that true worship begins with acknowledging the Lord’s ownership of all things. It strengthens the believer’s understanding of stewardship and encourages a life shaped by thankfulness, trust, and faithful service.