The Presbyterian Hymnal ‎#560

560. We Plow the Fields and Scatter

1 We plow the fields and scatter
The good seed on the land,
But it is fed and watered
By God’s almighty hand;
He sends the snow in winter,
The warmth to swell the grain,
The breezes and the sunshine,
And soft refreshing rain.

2 You only are the Maker
Of all things near and far;
You paint the wayside flower,
You light the evening star;
The winds and waves obey You,
By You the birds are fed;
Much more to us, Your children,
You give our daily bread.

3 We thank You, then, Creator,
For all things bright and good,
The seed time and the harvest,
Our life, our health, our food;
Accept the gifts we offer,
For all Your love imparts,
And what You most would welcome,
Our humble, thankful hearts.

Text Information

• First Line: We plow the fields and scatter
• Title: We Plow the Fields and Scatter
• Author: Matthias Claudius (1782)
• Translator: Jane Montgomery Campbell (1861; alt.)
• Meter: 7.6.7.6 D
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 1990
• Scripture:
  Genesis 8:22
  ;
  Ezekiel 34:26
  ;
  Matthew 13:38
  ;
  James 1:17

Tune Information

• Name: NYLAND
• Adapter and Harmonizer: David Evans (1927)
• Meter: 7.6.7.6 D
• Key: E♭ Major
• Source: Finnish folk melody
• Copyright: Adaptation and harmonization from the Revised Church Hymnary 1927. Used by permission of Oxford University Press.