How Great Is Our God Lyrics: A Song Of Praise And Majesty

Let's dive into the powerful lyrics of "How Great Is Our God," a song that has resonated with millions around the world. This anthem of praise, penned by Chris Tomlin, Ed Cash, and Jesse Reeves, isn't just a catchy tune; it's a profound declaration of God's majesty and glory. We'll break down the verses, chorus, and bridge, exploring the biblical references and the emotions they evoke. So, grab your headphones, open your heart, and let's explore the depths of this incredible worship song, "How Great Is Our God."

The Genesis of a Modern Hymn

Before we delve into the lyrics themselves, it's worth understanding the story behind the song. Chris Tomlin, a prominent figure in contemporary Christian music, is known for his ability to craft songs that are both theologically rich and accessible to a wide audience. "How Great Is Our God" is a prime example of this talent. Tomlin collaborated with Ed Cash and Jesse Reeves, two equally gifted songwriters, to create a song that would capture the essence of God's greatness. The song's immense popularity speaks volumes about its ability to connect with people on a deep, spiritual level. It's not just a song you hear in church; it's a song that echoes in the hearts of believers around the globe.

The creation of "How Great Is Our God" wasn't just a matter of musical talent; it was a process of seeking divine inspiration. The songwriters poured over scripture, meditating on the attributes of God and the ways in which He has revealed Himself throughout history. They sought to craft lyrics that would not only praise God but also lead others into a deeper understanding of His character. The result is a song that is both worshipful and instructional, a powerful tool for personal reflection and corporate adoration. The song's success can be attributed to its ability to articulate the inexpressible, to put words to the awe and wonder that we feel when we contemplate the greatness of God. It's a song that invites us to join in a timeless chorus of praise, echoing the heavenly hosts who sing of God's glory day and night.

Unpacking the Verses: A Glimpse of God's Attributes

The first verse of "How Great Is Our God" sets the stage for the entire song. It paints a picture of God's majesty and power, declaring His name as one worthy of praise. Let's take a closer look at the lyrics:

The splendor of a King, clothed in majesty Let all the earth rejoice, all the earth rejoice He wraps Himself in light, and darkness tries to hide And trembles at His voice, trembles at His voice

The opening line, "The splendor of a King, clothed in majesty," immediately establishes the regal nature of God. He is not just a powerful being; He is the King of Kings, the Lord of Lords. The imagery of being "clothed in majesty" speaks to the inherent glory and authority that belong to God alone. This is not an acquired attribute; it is an essential part of His being.

The phrase "Let all the earth rejoice, all the earth rejoice" is a call to universal praise. It's an invitation for every creature, every nation, every tongue to join in the chorus of adoration. This echoes the biblical call to worship found throughout the Psalms and other scriptures. The repetition of the phrase emphasizes the urgency and importance of this call. It's not just a suggestion; it's a command, a heartfelt plea for all of creation to recognize and celebrate the greatness of God.

The next two lines, "He wraps Himself in light, and darkness tries to hide / And trembles at His voice, trembles at His voice," speak to God's omnipotence and the power of His presence. Light is a common metaphor for God's holiness and purity, while darkness represents evil and the forces that oppose Him. The fact that God "wraps Himself in light" suggests that His very essence is radiant and unblemished. The image of darkness trembling at His voice highlights the ultimate power and authority of God. Even the forces of darkness are no match for His might.

The second verse continues to explore the attributes of God, focusing on His eternal nature and His role as the Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. Let's examine these lyrics:

How great is our God, sing with me How great is our God, and all will see How great, how great is our God

These lines declare the greatness of God and invite us to join in the chorus of praise. The phrase "How great is our God" is not just a statement; it's an exclamation, a declaration of awe and wonder. It's a recognition of the immeasurable nature of God's power, love, and glory. The invitation to "sing with me" emphasizes the communal aspect of worship. We are not meant to worship in isolation; we are called to gather together and lift our voices in unison to praise God.

The line "and all will see" speaks to the ultimate revelation of God's glory. It's a promise that one day, every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord. This is not just a matter of faith; it's a prophetic declaration of the future. The repetition of "How great, how great is our God" reinforces the central theme of the song and invites us to meditate on the immensity of God's being.

The Chorus: A Powerful Declaration of Faith

The chorus of "How Great Is Our God" is a powerful declaration of faith, a simple yet profound affirmation of God's greatness. It's the heart of the song, the message that resonates throughout the verses and bridge. Here are the lyrics:

Name above all names You are worthy of our praise And my heart will sing How great is our God

The phrase "Name above all names" speaks to the uniqueness and supremacy of God's name. In many cultures, names hold significant power and meaning. The fact that God's name is above all names suggests that He is above all powers, all authorities, and all other beings. This is a declaration of His unrivaled sovereignty. It also speaks to the personal nature of God. He is not just an abstract concept; He is a God who has revealed Himself by name.

The line "You are worthy of our praise" is a statement of God's inherent worthiness. He is not worthy of praise because of what He does for us, although He certainly deserves praise for His blessings and provision. He is worthy of praise simply because of who He is. His character, His attributes, His very being are worthy of our adoration. This is a foundational principle of worship: we praise God not out of obligation but out of a recognition of His inherent worth.

The declaration "And my heart will sing / How great is our God" is a personal expression of worship. It's not just a mental assent to the truth of God's greatness; it's a heartfelt commitment to praise Him. The phrase "my heart will sing" suggests a spontaneous overflow of joy and gratitude. It's an acknowledgment that worship is not just an external act; it's an internal response to the greatness of God. The chorus, in its entirety, serves as a reminder of who God is and why He deserves our utmost praise.

The Bridge: Unveiling the Triune God

The bridge of "How Great Is Our God" takes the song to another level, unveiling the triune nature of God – Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. This is a crucial theological element that sets the song apart from many other worship anthems. Let's examine the lyrics:

Age to age He stands And time is in His hands Beginning and the End Beginning and the End

The Godhead Three in One Father Spirit Son The Lion and the Lamb The Lion and the Lamb

The opening lines, "Age to age He stands / And time is in His hands," speak to God's eternal nature. He is not bound by time; He transcends it. He is the God of all ages, the one who was, and is, and is to come. The fact that "time is in His hands" suggests that He is in control of all things, that nothing is outside of His sovereign plan. This is a comforting thought, especially in the midst of life's uncertainties.

The repetition of "Beginning and the End / Beginning and the End" reinforces the idea of God's eternal nature. He is the Alpha and Omega, the first and the last. He was present at the beginning of creation, and He will be present at the end of all things. This speaks to His completeness and His ultimate authority.

The lines "The Godhead Three in One / Father Spirit Son" are a concise yet profound statement of the doctrine of the Trinity. This is a complex theological concept, but the song expresses it in a simple and accessible way. God is one in essence, yet He exists in three distinct persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. This is a mystery that we cannot fully comprehend, but it is a truth that is revealed in Scripture.

The final lines, "The Lion and the Lamb / The Lion and the Lamb," point to the dual nature of Christ. He is the Lion of Judah, the King of Kings, the powerful and victorious ruler. But He is also the Lamb of God, the sacrificial offering who takes away the sins of the world. This paradoxical image captures the fullness of Christ's character and His redemptive work. The bridge, therefore, is a powerful theological statement, encapsulating the essence of the Christian faith in a few short lines.

The Impact and Legacy of "How Great Is Our God"

"How Great Is Our God" has had a profound impact on the landscape of contemporary Christian worship. Since its release, it has been sung in churches around the world, translated into numerous languages, and covered by countless artists. Its popularity is a testament to its timeless message and its ability to connect with people from diverse backgrounds. The song has become a staple in worship services, concerts, and personal devotion times. It's a song that people turn to in times of joy, sorrow, and everything in between.

The legacy of "How Great Is Our God" extends beyond its musical impact. It has also served as a catalyst for spiritual renewal and a source of encouragement for believers around the world. The song's powerful lyrics have inspired countless individuals to deepen their relationship with God and to live lives of worship and service. It has also fostered a sense of unity and connection within the global Christian community. When people sing "How Great Is Our God," they are joining a chorus of praise that transcends geographical boundaries and cultural differences.

In conclusion, "How Great Is Our God" is more than just a song; it's an anthem of faith, a declaration of God's majesty, and an invitation to worship. Its powerful lyrics, combined with its memorable melody, have made it a timeless classic in the world of Christian music. As we sing this song, let us be reminded of the greatness of our God and let our hearts overflow with praise and gratitude.