Praise the Almighty; My Soul, Adore Him
Praise the Almighty, my soul, adore Him
This hymn exemplifies Lutheran devotional practice by uniting corporate praise with personal adoration, reflecting the Reformation emphasis on congregational hymnody as a vehicle for theological instruction. The text celebrates God's omnipotence and providential care while inspiring individual trust, central to Lutheran spirituality.
History & Background
Originally written in German as 'Lobe den Herren, den mächtigen König der Ehren' by Joachim Neander around 1680, this hymn was first published in the Stralsund Gesangbuch in 1665 (some sources cite 1680). Catherine Winkworth's English translation appeared in her Chorale Book for England (1863), becoming one of the most widely used English versions.
Hymnal Appearances
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 888
- Lutheran Book of Worship — 539
- Lutheran Service Book — 797
- Lutheran Worship — 445
- Trinity Hymnal — 5
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 26
- With One Voice — 688
Translation
Bulletin Note
Written by Joachim Neander in 1680, this German hymn exemplifies Reformed-Lutheran devotional practice, uniting personal soul-praise with congregational witness to God's providential majesty and sustaining grace.
Preaching Connection
This hymn transforms the proclamation of God's omnipotent care from abstract doctrine into lived devotion, enabling the congregation to embody the Gospel's promise that divine majesty is also intimate providence.
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
Adoration of God Divine care and protection Trust in providence Praise and thanksgiving God's lordship