It Took a Miracle (My Father Is Omnipotent)

“My Father Is Omnipotent,” written in 1948 by John W. Peterson, is a hymn of confidence and faith in the limitless power of God. Known for his many gospel songs that express clear biblical truth in heartfelt, memorable language, Peterson composed this hymn to remind believers of God’s absolute authority over creation and His ability to do what seems impossible. The song reflects both theological depth and childlike trust, capturing the essence of Luke 1:37, which assures that nothing is beyond God’s reach.

The hymn opens by proclaiming the omnipotence of God, declaring that He who hung the stars in space and formed the earth by His word is the believer’s own Father. This intimate connection between divine power and personal relationship forms the heart of the hymn’s message. The same God who sustains the universe also cares deeply for His children, guiding and providing for them in love. By joining majesty and tenderness, Peterson leads the singer to rest in a faith that is both awe-filled and secure.

Peterson’s words also reflect the atmosphere of post-war faith and renewal during the late 1940s. In a world that had seen great turmoil, the hymn offered reassurance that God’s sovereign power remained unshaken. The second verse continues this theme by pointing to God’s creative acts as proof that He is fully capable of meeting every human need. The refrain, “It took a miracle to put the stars in place, it took a miracle to hang the world in space,” builds on this image, drawing a contrast between the grandeur of creation and the greater miracle of personal salvation.

The line, “But when He saved my soul, cleansed and made me whole, it took a miracle of love and grace,” beautifully summarizes the gospel message. Peterson wanted his audience to understand that the same almighty power that shaped galaxies is at work in the redemption of a single soul. The hymn thus shifts from creation to salvation, showing that God’s greatest act of power is found not only in the physical universe but in the transformation of human hearts through Christ.

Musically, the hymn carries the qualities that made Peterson’s songs enduring favorites in evangelical circles: a strong, singable melody, a memorable refrain, and harmonies that evoke both majesty and intimacy. The rhythm flows easily for congregational singing, and the rising phrases of the chorus mirror the uplifting truth of the lyrics. Its melody communicates both reverence and warmth, allowing the words to speak directly to the heart.

John W. Peterson (1921–2006) was one of the most influential gospel songwriters of the twentieth century, known for compositions such as “Heaven Came Down,” “Jesus Is Coming Again,” and “Over the Sunset Mountains.” In all his works, Peterson emphasized the clarity of the gospel message and the personal experience of salvation. “My Father Is Omnipotent” exemplifies his ability to blend solid doctrine with heartfelt worship, making it accessible to believers of all ages.

Spiritually, this hymn encourages believers to trust fully in God’s might. It reminds the church that the same Creator who upholds all things by His power is the loving Father who redeems, sustains, and provides. The repetition of the word “miracle” is not mere poetry; it is a declaration of ongoing faith. Every believer’s life is a testimony to divine intervention, a living miracle of grace.

“My Father Is Omnipotent” continues to inspire congregations because it unites majesty and mercy, creation and redemption, power and love. Each verse draws the singer closer to the realization that God is not distant or indifferent but near and active in every moment of life. As the hymn joyfully proclaims, the same God who holds the stars also holds His children securely in His care.