Lord God to You We All Give Praise
Lord God to You we all give praise
This hymn embodies the Lutheran understanding of God's providential care through angels as divine agents of protection and blessing. It reflects the Reformation emphasis on praising God's majesty while acknowledging our dependence on His invisible servants.
History & Background
Martin Behm's German hymn 'Lobe den Herren, den mächtigen König' was published in 1610 as part of the German Lutheran hymn tradition. Catherine Winkworth's English translation appeared in 1863 in her collection and became standard in Lutheran hymnody.
Hymnal Appearances
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 822
- Lutheran Service Book — 522
- Lutheran Worship — 189
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 254
Translation
Bulletin Note
Composed by Martin Behm in 1610, this hymn reflects post-Reformation piety emphasizing God's providential care through angelic ministration, combining Reformation theology with the liturgical tradition of praise.
Preaching Connection
This hymn proclaims the Gospel of God's active, gracious providence, inviting preachers to explore how divine care for us—whether through visible blessings or the invisible ministry of angels—calls us from fear to confident, grateful praise.
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
Angels and ministration Providence of God Praise and thanksgiving Protection and care God's sovereignty