Swedish pastor, Carl Boberg, was enjoying a nice walk through the woods when suddenly, a thunderstorm struck. He sought shelter underneath an ancient oak tree and braced himself from the cold rain and wind. Then, as suddenly as it appeared, the storm subsided, leaving a clear blue sky and the gentle scene of nature at its most glorious. Boberg heard the ring of a church bell in the distance and a feeling of peace enveloped him as the words to one of Christianity’s greatest hymns formed in his heart.

First popularized in the USA by George Beverly Shea, “How Great Thou Art” has been recorded by hundreds of artists as diverse as Elvis Presley, Aretha Franklin, Billy Preston, Alan Jackson, and Carrie Underwood. They, along with believers the world over, use these words to honor, glorify, and praise the Creator of the universe.

Each year about this time, as we lead into the Christmas season, I encourage you to take a moment to read through the lyrics and make them your own, praising and thanking our magnificent Creator for His marvelous love. The song and its meaning never go out of style!

O Lord my God, when I in awesome wonder,
Consider all the worlds Thy hands have made.
I see the stars, I hear the rolling thunder,
Thy power throughout the universe displayed.

When through the woods and forest glades I wander,
And hear the birds sing sweetly in the trees.
When I look down from lofty mountain grandeur
And see the brook and feel the gentle breeze.

And when I think that God, His Son not sparing,
Sent Him to die, I scarce can take it in.
That on the cross, my burden gladly bearing,
He bled and died to take away my sin.

Then sings my soul, My Savior God, to Thee,
How great Thou art, How great Thou art.
Then sings my soul, My Savior God, to Thee,
How great Thou art, How great Thou art!