We Praise You, O God, Our Redeemer
We praise you, O God, our Redeemer, Creator
This hymn expresses the Lutheran emphasis on God as Creator and Redeemer while celebrating the mercies and protection of divine providence in daily life. It embodies the Reformation principle of joyful, accessible congregational praise rooted in Scripture and centered on God's redemptive work through Christ.
History & Background
Written by Julia Cady Cory in 1902, this hymn first appeared in The Hymnal (1904). Its text was widely adopted by Lutheran hymnals throughout the 20th century, becoming a beloved congregational song of thanksgiving and praise.
Hymnal Appearances
- Baptist Hymnal — 9
- Chalice Hymnal — 35
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 870
- Glory to God — 612
- Lutheran Book of Worship — 241
- Lutheran Service Book — 785
- Lift Up Your Hearts — 551
- Lutheran Worship — 494
- New Century Hymnal — 420
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 568
- United Methodist Hymnal — 9
- Voices Together — 97
- With One Voice — 738
Bulletin Note
Written by Julia Cady Cory in 1902, this enduring hymn captures the Reformed confidence in God's providential care while maintaining the Lutheran conviction that praise flows from grace received, not earned.
Preaching Connection
This hymn crystallizes the Gospel movement from divine mercy received to grateful human response, making it a powerful reinforcement when preaching on how God's redemptive grace awakens and shapes the worshiping heart.
Catechism & Confessional Connections
- The Second Article (Concerning Redemption) Small Catechism — The Apostles' Creed
Stanza Arc
The narrative or theological arc traced by this tune's stanzas: Grateful acknowledgment of God's redemptive work moving toward renewed commitment to corporate praise and service
Themes
Praise and thanksgiving God's providence and creation Redemption through Christ Divine mercy and grace Congregational worship