O Lord I Sing with Lips and Heart
O Lord, I sing with lips and heart
This hymn embodies Lutheran emphasis on the integration of body, mind, and spirit in worship, reflecting the Reformation's recovery of congregational singing as vital to faith expression. It demonstrates the Lutheran commitment to heartfelt devotion combined with doctrinal clarity in praise.
History & Background
Martin Behm's German hymn 'O Herr, ich sing mit Leib und Herz' was published in the early 17th century as an expression of devotional praise. Catherine Winkworth's English translation appeared in her 1863 collection 'Lyra Germanica,' making it accessible to English-speaking Lutherans.
Hymnal Appearances
- Lutheran Service Book — 737
- Lutheran Worship — 434
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 569
Translation
Bulletin Note
Composed by Martin Behm in 1610, this hymn crystallizes Lutheran piety: the integration of passionate devotion with doctrinal substance, sung by the whole congregation as a vital means of faith.
Preaching Connection
This hymn embodies the Gospel's movement from divine grace received to joyful human response, making it a powerful congregational echo of how the proclamation of Christ's redemption awakens willing praise rather than mere legal obligation.
Themes
Praise and thanksgiving Devotion and worship Trust in God Joy in faith