There is a Time for Ev'rything
There is a time for ev'rything
The hymn reflects Lutheran confidence in God's providential ordering of all seasons and circumstances, refusing fatalism while affirming divine wisdom. It teaches acceptance of life's varied seasons—joy and sorrow, activity and rest—as part of God's redemptive plan for our sanctification.
History & Background
Jaroslav Vajda composed this text in 1980 as a modern paraphrase of Ecclesiastes 3:1-8. The hymn was first published in 1983 and later included in Evangelical Lutheran Worship and Lutheran Service Book.
Hymnal Appearances
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 746
- Lutheran Service Book — 762
- Lutheran Worship — 442
Bulletin Note
Composed in 1980 by Jaroslav Vajda, a Lutheran hymnodist and poet. This beloved text draws from Ecclesiastes 3, teaching that God's wisdom governs all seasons of life, transforming our acceptance of suffering into active trust in divine providence.
Preaching Connection
This hymn embodies the Law's humbling reminder that we cannot control our circumstances, and the Gospel's liberating promise that God orders every season—joyful and painful—for our redemption and His glory.
Stanza Arc
The narrative or theological arc traced by this tune's stanzas: Law to Gospel: human weakness and worldly ruin (stanzas 1-2) give way to Christ's cross as sole source of redemption, peace, and Christian boasting (stanzas 3-4)
Themes
God's sovereignty and providence Seasons of life Trust in divine timing God's wisdom in all circumstances