Lord God, to You We Give All Praise
Lord God, to You we give all praise
The hymn expresses the Lutheran confidence in God's sovereign care and protection through angels and providence, reflecting the comfort available through faith in Christ. It combines the Medieval understanding of guardian angels with Reformation emphasis on God's direct care for believers.
History & Background
Originally published as 'Mit Freuden zart' in German in 1663, this hymn of praise and thanksgiving reflects the faith of post-Reformation Lutheranism. Catherine Winkworth's English translation from her 1863 collection brought this text into widespread use in English-speaking Lutheran churches.
Hymnal Appearances
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 884
- Lutheran Service Book — 522
- Lutheran Worship — 189
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 254
Translation
Bulletin Note
Written by Clausnitzer in 1663, this hymn blends medieval confidence in guardian angels with Reformation assurance of God's direct, sovereign care—comfort born from the cross and the promise of Christ's return.
Preaching Connection
This hymn moves from the terror of our dependence on God (Law) to the joy of His protective love in Christ (Gospel), making it a perfect echo for sermons that call believers from anxiety into the rest that only grace provides.
Stanza Arc
The narrative or theological arc traced by this tune's stanzas: Ascription of praise to God's sovereign power and love, followed by personal testimony of healing and sanctification, culminating in lifelong grateful service
Themes
Praise and adoration God's protection and providence Guardian angels Divine care