O Day of God, Draw Nigh

“O Day of God, Draw Nigh” is a hymn written in 1937 by Robert B. Y. Scott, a Canadian biblical scholar, minister, and hymn writer. The hymn expresses a longing for the coming of God’s kingdom and calls believers to live faithfully as they anticipate the fulfillment of God’s purposes in the world.

The hymn draws on the biblical theme of the coming day of the Lord, a time when God will establish righteousness and justice throughout the earth. This hope is reflected in Isaiah 2:2–4, which describes a future when the nations will seek the ways of the Lord and peace will replace conflict. The hymn echoes this vision by expressing a desire for God’s reign of justice and peace to be fully realized.

Another important idea in the hymn is the call for justice and righteousness in the present world. Amos 5:24 declares that justice should roll down like waters and righteousness like an ever flowing stream. Scott’s hymn reflects this prophetic concern by encouraging believers to work toward a world that reflects God’s righteous character.

The hymn also reflects the teaching of 2 Peter 3:12–13, which speaks of believers looking forward to the coming day of God and the promise of a new heaven and a new earth where righteousness dwells. This expectation shapes the Christian life, motivating believers to live with hope and faithfulness.

In addition, the hymn recalls the vision of the new creation described in Revelation 21:1–4, where God will dwell with His people and remove sorrow, suffering, and death. The hymn therefore connects present faithfulness with the future hope of God’s complete restoration of the world.

“O Day of God, Draw Nigh” continues to be valued as a hymn of Christian hope and commitment. Its message calls believers to pray for the coming of God’s kingdom while also seeking to live in ways that reflect His justice, peace, and righteousness in the world today.