How Great Thou Art - is one of the most beloved hymns of all time. Its powerful lyrics, beautiful melody, and profound message have touched countless hearts since it was first written in the early 20th century.
Lyrics and Hymn Meaning
Verse 1
O Lord my God! When I in awesome wonder Consider all the worlds Thy hands have made, I see the stars, I hear the rolling thunder, Thy power throughout the universe displayed;
Chorus
Then sings my soul, my Savior God, to Thee: How great Thou art, how great Thou art!
The lyrics of How Great Thou Art were originally written in Swedish by Carl Boberg. The first verse was inspired by a thunderstorm Boberg witnessed in 1885, while the rest of the hymn came to him over several years as he reflected on God's creation and salvation.
In 1927, a British missionary named Stuart Hine heard the hymn while in Ukraine, and was moved to translate it into English. Over the years, additional verses have been added to the hymn, but the original message of awe and reverence for God's greatness remains.
Story Behind the Hymn
Verse 2
When through the woods, and forest glades I wander, And hear the birds sing sweetly in the trees. When I look down, from lofty mountain grandeur And see the brook, and feel the gentle breeze.
Chorus
Then sings my soul, my Savior God, to Thee: How great Thou art, how great Thou art!
The story behind How Great Thou Art is a testament to the power of faith and inspiration. Carl Boberg wrote the original lyrics in 1885, after being inspired by a lightning storm in his native Sweden. He penned the words in his diary, and they remained there for several years.
Years later, Boberg was attending a worship service when the minister announced that a new hymn was to be sung. To Boberg's surprise, the church organ began to play the tune to the words he had written years before. Overwhelmed by the realization that God had brought his words to the attention of the church, Boberg felt inspired to complete the hymn.
Over the years, the hymn has been translated into dozens of languages and become one of the most beloved and widely-sung songs of faith. Its message of gratitude and awe for God's greatness continues to inspire and uplift believers around the world.
Tips for Singing How Great Thou Art
Verse 3
And when I think that God, His Son not sparing, Sent Him to die, I scarce can take it in; That on the Cross, my burden gladly bearing, He bled and died to take away my sin.
Chorus
Then sings my soul, my Savior God, to Thee: How great Thou art, how great Thou art!
When it comes to singing How Great Thou Art, there are a few tips to keep in mind. First, take your time with each verse, allowing the melody and lyrics to sink in deeply. This hymn is not about rushing through the words, but about savoring the message of awe and reverence.
Second, pay close attention to the phrasing and dynamics of the song. The melody of How Great Thou Art ebbs and flows in intensity, and mastering these shifts will help you convey the emotions of the hymn.
Finally, let the song speak to your heart. Whether you are singing alone or with a group, approach How Great Thou Art with a sense of gratitude and wonder. Remember that this hymn is a reminder of God's great love for us, and allow it to inspire you to deeper faith and devotion.
Ideas for Incorporating How Great Thou Art into Worship
Verse 4
When Christ shall come with shout of acclamation And take me home, what joy shall fill my heart! Then I shall bow in humble adoration, And there proclaim, "My God, how great Thou art!"
Chorus
Then sings my soul, my Savior God, to Thee: How great Thou art, how great Thou art!
There are many ways to incorporate How Great Thou Art into your worship service or personal devotional time. One idea is to use the hymn as a call to worship, inviting the congregation to join in singing the first verse and chorus as a statement of praise and adoration.
Another idea is to use the hymn as a meditation, focusing on the lyrics and allowing them to inspire your thoughts and prayers. Whether you are facing struggles or seeking to deepen your relationship with God, meditating on the message of How Great Thou Art can help you find peace and inspiration.
Finally, consider using How Great Thou Art as a benediction or closing song, sending the congregation forth with a reminder of God's greatness and love. Regardless of how you choose to incorporate it into your worship, this beloved hymn is sure to inspire and uplift all who hear it.
How to Play How Great Thou Art
Verse 5
Then sings my soul, my Savior God, to Thee: How great Thou art, how great Thou art!
Chorus
Then sings my soul, my Savior God, to Thee: How great Thou art, how great Thou art!
If you are a musician looking to play How Great Thou Art on the piano or guitar, there are many resources available to help you learn the chords and melody. One helpful tool is chord charts, which show you the chords you need to play in order to accompany the hymn.
You can also find sheet music for How Great Thou Art online or in music stores, which will provide a more detailed guide to playing the hymn. Regardless of your level of musical experience, with practice and dedication you can learn to play this beloved song of faith and add it to your repertoire of worship music.
Whether you are singing, listening, or playing How Great Thou Art, this timeless hymn is sure to touch your heart and inspire your faith. Its profound message of God's greatness and love has resonated with believers for generations, and continues to be a source of comfort and inspiration to all who hear it.
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