From Him and Through Him

Song Meaning

The lyrics paint a picture of awe and incomprehension before the divine. The opening lines immediately establish a sense of overwhelming "riches" and "infinite wisdom" belonging to God, the "Source of every life and every thought." This sets a tone of profound reverence, highlighting the vastness of divine knowledge that remains beyond human grasp, posing the question of who can "fathom the mysteries God has concealed." The central tension arises from this vast disparity: the human inability to fully comprehend or repay the Creator for the very existence and power bestowed upon us. The core of the song's message lies in the repeated declaration: "For from Him and through Him / And to Him are all things." This cyclical affirmation emphasizes divine sovereignty and origin, suggesting that all creation emanates from God, is sustained by Him, and ultimately returns to Him. The lyrics then pivot to the divine "judgements," described as "perfect mercy and justice," yet still too profound for the "dark and deceived" human mind to follow. The image of God traveling a "path through the skies" leaving a "shadow / Too bright for our eyes" powerfully conveys an inaccessible, transcendent glory. The repeated rhetorical questions throughout the song underscore the human condition of limited understanding and capacity. Questions like "Who can fathom the mysteries?" and "Who can follow behind Him?" are not seeking literal answers but are expressions of humility and wonder. The final set of questions, "Who can know the mind of the Lord? / Who has told Him what to say? / Who has ever given to God / That God should have to repay?" directly challenge any notion of human parity or contribution, reinforcing the idea that all is a gift from God, with no obligation on His part. Ultimately, these lyrics are effective because they articulate a profound theological concept through simple, declarative statements and persistent, awe-inspired questions. The repetitive structure of the chorus, "For from Him and through Him / And to Him are all things / To Him to be glory / Forever and ever Amen," acts as a liturgical anchor, solidifying the central theme of God's ultimate authority and the believer's response of praise. The consistent emphasis on divine greatness and human limitation creates a powerful emotional arc of worship, submission, and unending adoration.