How Excellent Are Your Ways

Oh God, how excellent are your ways

You have been God since before the foundation of the world

You spoke and the earth was formed

The waters and the earth gathered together at your word

At the sound of your voice the earth brought forth trees and greenery

The sun and the moon appeared at your command, and you placed the stars in space

Then you created all the animals, on the ground, in the sea, and the birds and insects

Then you made man out of the dust of the ground

You gave him dominion over all that you have made

And you said it was all good

And you rested

Oh God, my God, how excellent are your ways

Still today you watch over your creation

You bring the rain in due season

The thunder blasts and the lightning crashes at your command

The sky clears and the rainbow appears to remind us of your promise

You bring the crops to maturity and the farmers bring in the harvest

The harvest you have provided

You turn the trees to brilliant colors in the cool fall air

We marvel at the beauty of your creation

Oh God, my God how excellent are your ways in all the earth

You still love man despite the way he has failed you

You still see him as the crowning jewel of your creation

You cry out to him to turn back to your word

Because you know what is best for your creation

Help us Lord, to turn to you

Help us to follow your word

Help us to pray for our nation

You have been so good to us while we have turned our backs on you

Forgive our nation, Lord, for our transgressions

Hear our plea for healing and restoration

Renew us in your word, and clothe us with your Holy Spirit

Let your love arise in our hearts as we worship you

Let the church rise and carry out your word

That we should humble ourselves,

And pray,

And seek your face,

And turn from our wicked ways

Because then, and only then

Will you hear from heaven

And forgive our sins

And heal our Land.

Oh God, my God, How excellent are your ways in all the earth.