I Will Sing My Maker's Praises
I will sing my Maker's praises
This hymn exemplifies Lutheran piety's emphasis on grateful praise as the Christian's response to God's merciful providence and sustaining care. It reflects the Reformation principle of the priesthood of all believers, calling the individual soul to personal, joyful worship.
History & Background
Originally written in German as 'Lobe den Herren' by Johann Balthasar König and published in his hymnal Freylinghausen's Geistreiches Gesangbuch (1738). Catherine Winkworth translated this beloved hymn into English in 1863, preserving its joyful ascription of praise.
Hymnal Appearances
- Lutheran Service Book — 977
- Lutheran Worship — 439
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 25
Translation
Bulletin Note
Johann Balthasar König (1738). This hymn expresses the heart of Lutheran piety: personal, grateful praise as the believer's response to God's provident mercy and sustaining care across all seasons of life.
Preaching Connection
This hymn beautifully embodies the Gospel's call to joyful gratitude: having received undeserved grace, the believer's only fitting response is praise that overflows into all of life.
Stanza Arc
The narrative or theological arc traced by this tune's stanzas: Law (divine majesty and power) → Gospel (providence, mercy, sustenance) → Gospel (daily goodness) → Gospel (communal adoration and response)
Themes
Praise and adoration Divine care and providence Trust in God Grateful response to grace