Sovereign Ruler of the Skies

By John Ryland

Lyrics

1. Sovereign Ruler of the skies,
ever gracious, ever wise,
all my times are in your hand,
all events at your command.
2. He that formed me in the womb
guides my footsteps till the tomb;
all my times shall ever be
ordered by his wise decree.
3. Times of sickness, times of health,
times of poverty or wealth,
times of trial, times of grief,
times of triumph and relief;
4. Times the tempter's power is faced,
times a Saviour's love to taste—
all must come, and last, and end,
as shall please my heavenly friend.
5. Mortal dangers round me fly;
till he bids, I cannot die;
not a single arrow hits
till, in love, our God permits.
6. God all-gracious, wise and just,
in your hands my life I trust;
you at all times I will bless:
having you, I all possess.

Psalm 103:19; Daniel 4:34–35; Romans 8:28; Ephesians 1:11

About This Hymn

“Sovereign Ruler of the Skies” is a hymn by John Ryland Jr. that emphasizes the absolute sovereignty of God over all creation and circumstances. The hymn expresses deep trust in God’s authority, wisdom, and providence, encouraging believers to rest in His perfect will even when life’s situations are difficult to understand.

The central theme of the hymn is drawn from Psalm 103:19, which declares that the Lord has established His throne in the heavens and His kingdom rules over all. This truth assures believers that nothing happens outside of God’s control. Similarly, Daniel 4:34–35 affirms that God does according to His will among the inhabitants of the earth, and none can stay His hand.

The hymn also reflects the comforting promise of Romans 8:28, that all things work together for good to them that love God. Even trials and hardships are under God’s sovereign direction, serving His purposes for the good of His people.

Another key idea is God’s purposeful will, as expressed in Ephesians 1:11, where He is said to work all things according to the counsel of His own will. The hymn encourages believers to submit to this divine plan with humility and faith, trusting that God’s wisdom far exceeds human understanding.

“Sovereign Ruler of the Skies” is both a declaration and a prayer. It acknowledges God’s supreme authority while asking for grace to accept His will. Through its message, the hymn strengthens faith, reminding believers that their lives are in the hands of a sovereign and loving God who rules over all things with perfect wisdom and care.

Hymn Sheet for Sovereign Ruler of the Skies
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Hymn Information

image of Sovereign Ruler of the Skies of John Ryland
  • Category: Hymn
  • Tune: PLEYEL'S HYMN
  • Meter: 7.7.7.7
  • Added: March 30, 2026
  • Last Updated: March 30, 2026
  • Views: 22

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