The song lyrics were written by the band Van Halen, as they were asked to write a song for the 1979 movie "Over the Edge" starring Matt Dillon. The movie (and the lyrics, although more obliquely) are about bored, rebellious youth with nothing better to do than get into trouble. If you see the movie, these lyrics will make more sense. It's a great movie if you grew up in the 70s/80s you'll definitely remember some of these characters from your own life. Fun fact, after writing the song, Van Halen decided not to let the movie use it.
God of our fathers
Whose almighty hand
Leads forth in beauty
In all the starry band
Of shining worlds
In splendor through the skies
Our grateful songs
Before thy throne arise
Thy love divine
Hath led us in the past
In this free land
By thee our lot is cast
Be thou our Ruler
Guardian, Guide, and Stay
Thy word our law
Thy paths our chosen way
From war's alarms
From deadly pestilence
Be thy strong arm
Our ever sure defense
Thy true religion
In our heart increase
Thy bounteous goodness
Nourish us in peace
Whose almighty hand
Leads forth in beauty
In all the starry band
Of shining worlds
In splendor through the skies
Our grateful songs
Before thy throne arise
Thy love divine
Hath led us in the past
In this free land
By thee our lot is cast
Be thou our Ruler
Guardian, Guide, and Stay
Thy word our law
Thy paths our chosen way
From war's alarms
From deadly pestilence
Be thy strong arm
Our ever sure defense
Thy true religion
In our heart increase
Thy bounteous goodness
Nourish us in peace
Lyrics submitted by SongMeanings
God of Our Fathers Lyrics as written by Daniel C. Roberts Dp
Lyrics © MUSIC SALES CORPORATION, Universal Music Publishing Group, Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
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