All Things Bright And Beautiful

By Cecil Frances Alexander

Lyrics

Refrain:
All things bright and beautiful,
all creatures great and small,
all things wise and wonderful,
the Lord God made them all.

1. Each little flow'r that opens,
each little bird that sings,
He made their glowing colors,
He made their tiny wings.

2. The purple-headed mountain,
the river running by,
the sunset and the morning
that brightens up the sky.

3. The cold wind in the winter,
the pleasant summer sun,
the ripe fruits in the garden:
He made them every one.

4. He gave us eyes to see them,
and lips that we might tell
how great is God Almighty,
who has made all things well.

Bible Reference

Genesis 1:31

About This Hymn

“All Things Bright and Beautiful” is one of the most beloved children’s hymns, written by Cecil Frances Alexander in 1848. Alexander, known for her simple yet theologically rich hymns, sought to make the truths of the Christian faith understandable to children. This hymn first appeared in her book Hymns for Little Children and was originally intended to illustrate the opening words of the Apostles’ Creed, “I believe in God the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth.”

The hymn celebrates the beauty of God’s creation. Each stanza draws attention to different aspects of the natural world, such as flowers, birds, rivers, mountains, seasons, and the variety of life. By pointing to these everyday wonders, Alexander teaches that every detail of creation reflects the wisdom and goodness of the Creator. The repeated refrain, “All things bright and beautiful, all creatures great and small, all things wise and wonderful, the Lord God made them all,” reinforces the central theme: God’s hand is evident in all things.

Over the years, this hymn has been set to several tunes, with the most common being “Royal Oak.” It has become a staple in both church services and schools, loved for its simplicity and universality. While it is often sung by children, its message resonates with adults as well, reminding believers of the biblical truth that creation is a testimony to the glory of God. The hymn encourages gratitude and reverence, inviting Christians to see the handiwork of God in every part of the world around them. Through its enduring popularity, “All Things Bright and Beautiful” continues to inspire worship and wonder at the Creator’s care and artistry.