How Great Is Our God Lyrics: Meaning & Story Behind The Song
How Great Is Our God is more than just a song; it's an anthem. A declaration. A heartfelt expression of worship that has resonated with millions around the globe. Penned by the incredibly talented Chris Tomlin, along with Jesse Reeves and Ed Cash, this powerful worship song has become a staple in churches and Christian gatherings worldwide. But what makes it so special? Let's delve deep into the lyrics, explore the meaning behind the words, and understand why this song continues to touch hearts and draw people closer to the divine. So, guys, grab your favorite beverage, settle in, and let's unpack the beauty and depth of How Great Is Our God.
The Genesis of a Modern Hymn
Before we dive into the lyrics themselves, it's worth understanding the context in which How Great Is Our God was born. Chris Tomlin, a name synonymous with contemporary Christian worship music, has a knack for crafting songs that are both theologically rich and incredibly accessible. He has a unique gift for taking profound truths about God and presenting them in a way that is easy to sing, easy to remember, and deeply impactful. How Great Is Our God is a prime example of this gift in action.
The song was released in 2004 on Tomlin's album Arriving, and it quickly climbed the charts, becoming one of the most popular worship songs of the decade. Its simple yet powerful melody, coupled with its biblically grounded lyrics, struck a chord with worshippers of all ages and backgrounds. The song's success isn't just about catchy tunes; it's about the message it carries – a message of God's greatness, majesty, and unwavering love.
Unpacking the Lyrics: Verse by Verse
Okay, let's get into the heart of the matter: the lyrics themselves. How Great Is Our God is structured in a way that builds a powerful crescendo of worship. Each verse and chorus adds another layer to the portrait of God's greatness, leading to an ultimate expression of adoration.
Verse 1: The Wonder of Creation
"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 song opens with a bold declaration of God's royal splendor. We're not talking about an earthly king with limited power; we're talking about the King of Kings, clothed in unimaginable majesty. The phrase "clothed in majesty" paints a vivid picture of God's inherent glory and power. It's a majesty that isn't borrowed or earned; it's simply who He is.
The call for "all the earth to rejoice" is a universal invitation. It's not just for believers; it's for all creation to acknowledge and celebrate the greatness of its Creator. This sets the stage for a worship experience that encompasses everything and everyone.
The imagery of God wrapping Himself in light and darkness trembling at His voice is incredibly powerful. Light is often used in Scripture as a metaphor for God's holiness, purity, and presence. The fact that darkness tries to hide speaks to the overwhelming power of God's light. Even darkness, the absence of light, cannot withstand His presence. The trembling at His voice further emphasizes God's authority and the sheer force of His power. It's a reminder that God's voice is not just a gentle whisper; it's a commanding force that shapes the universe.
Verse 2: The Timeless God
"How great is our God, sing with me, How great is our God, and all will see How great, how great is our God."
Here, the chorus explodes with a simple yet profound declaration: "How great is our God!" This isn't just a statement; it's an invitation to join in worship. The call to "sing with me" is inclusive, inviting everyone to participate in the adoration of God. It's a communal expression of faith, a unified voice rising in praise.
The phrase "and all will see" speaks to the ultimate revelation of God's glory. It's a prophetic statement, looking forward to the day when every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord (Philippians 2:10-11). It's a reminder that God's greatness is not a secret; it's a truth that will ultimately be made known to all.
The repetition of "How great, how great is our God" emphasizes the immensity of God's greatness. It's a refrain that echoes in the heart, a constant reminder of the One we worship.
Verse 3: The Triune God
"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."
This verse delves into the eternal nature of God. "Age to age He stands" speaks to God's unchanging character and His sovereignty over time. He is not bound by time; He exists outside of it. The phrase "time is in His hands" further emphasizes His control and authority over all things.
Referring to God as the "Beginning and the End" is a powerful statement of His all-encompassing nature. He is the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last (Revelation 22:13). He was present at the beginning of creation, and He will be present at the end of all things. This speaks to His eternal existence and His ultimate authority.
The phrase "Godhead, Three in One: Father, Spirit, Son" encapsulates the doctrine of the Trinity – the belief that God is one being existing in three distinct persons. This is a complex theological concept, but the song presents it in a simple and memorable way. It's a reminder that God is both unified and diverse, a mystery that we can only begin to comprehend.
The imagery of the "Lion and the Lamb" is rich with biblical symbolism. The Lion of Judah represents God's power, majesty, and kingship (Revelation 5:5). The Lamb, of course, is a symbol of Jesus Christ, the sacrificial Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29). The fact that God is both the Lion and the Lamb speaks to His multifaceted nature – He is both powerful and gentle, both just and merciful.
Bridge: A Name Above All Names
"Name above all names, You are worthy of our praise, And my heart will sing, How great is our God."
The bridge of the song serves as a powerful climax, bringing together the themes of worship and adoration. The declaration that God's name is "above all names" emphasizes His supreme authority and His unique identity. There is no name greater than the name of Jesus (Philippians 2:9).
The statement "You are worthy of our praise" is a recognition of God's inherent worthiness. He is not worthy because of anything we do; He is worthy simply because of who He is. This is a key concept in worship – it's not about us giving God something He needs; it's about us acknowledging His inherent worth and responding with adoration.
The personal declaration "And my heart will sing, How great is our God" is a powerful expression of individual worship. It's a commitment to continually praise God, a promise to keep His greatness at the forefront of our minds and hearts.
