“How Great Thou Art” stands as one of the most beloved Christian hymns worldwide, resonating deeply with congregations and individuals across denominations. Its powerful lyrics evoke a sense of awe and wonder at God’s creation and redemptive love. This hymn, originally penned in Swedish by Carl Boberg in 1885, has traversed languages and cultures, carrying its message of divine greatness to countless hearts. Let’s delve into the lyrics and explore the rich tapestry of meaning woven into this timeless piece.
The Stirring Verses of “How Great Thou Art”
The hymn unfolds in four verses, each painting a vivid picture of God’s magnificence and personal grace. Here are the lyrics that have inspired generations:
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!
Then sings my soul, My Savior God, to Thee;
How great Thou art, How great Thou art!
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 hear 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!
Then sings my soul, My Savior God, to Thee;
How great Thou art, 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!
Then sings my soul, My Savior God, to Thee;
How great Thou art, How great Thou art!
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!
Then sings my soul, My Savior God, to Thee;
How great Thou art, How great Thou art!
Unveiling the Meaning and Story
Carl Boberg’s inspiration struck him during a walk in the Swedish countryside. He was captivated by the beauty of nature after a thunderstorm, witnessing the tranquility that followed the storm’s power. This experience led him to pen the poem “O Store Gud” (O Great God), reflecting on God’s grandeur seen in creation.
The lyrics beautifully weave together two major themes: God’s Creation and God’s Salvation. The first two verses focus on the natural world – stars, thunder, forests, mountains, birds, brooks, and breezes – all serving as testaments to God’s magnificent power and artistry. These verses encourage a personal encounter with God through His creation, prompting “awesome wonder” and prompting the soul to sing.
Verses three and four shift focus to the redemptive work of Christ. Verse three poignantly reflects on the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross, emphasizing the immense love and grace of God in offering His Son for humanity’s sins. Verse four looks forward to the second coming of Christ, filled with hope and anticipation of eternal joy and worship.
Alt text: Sunbeams filtering through trees in a forest, illustrating the natural imagery evoked by “How Great Thou Art” lyrics.
The repeated chorus acts as a powerful affirmation and response to these revelations. It’s a heartfelt declaration of worship, a soul overflowing with praise for a Savior God whose greatness is both awe-inspiring and intimately personal.
“How Great Thou Art” continues to move hearts because it connects the vastness of God’s universe with the personal experience of faith and salvation. It’s a hymn that invites us to see God’s greatness not only in the grand scale of creation but also in the profound depths of His love for each individual soul.
