Chords and Lyrics to “How Great Is Our God” – A Guide to Singing This Powerful Hymn

Have you ever felt the overwhelming power and majesty of God? Has the sheer vastness of His creation left you breathless? If so, you’re not alone. Millions of people around the world have experienced this awe-inspiring encounter with the Divine, and the inspiring hymn “How Great Is Our God” captures this emotion with captivating lyrics and impactful melodies. This hymn has become a staple in churches, gatherings, and even individual expressions of faith, and the power of the words combined with the beautiful music make it a truly moving experience.

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This article delves into the chords and lyrics of “How Great Is Our God,” exploring its origins, its message, and how to play it on your instrument. Whether you’re a seasoned musician or just starting out, we’ll guide you through the chords, vocal harmonies, and the powerful message behind this hymn, allowing you to experience and share this inspiring message in your own way.

Understanding the History and the Message

The hymn “How Great Is Our God” was penned by Chris Tomlin, a renowned Christian contemporary worship leader. It was released in 2006 as part of his album “See the Light” and quickly became a global phenomenon, sung in churches all over the world. It’s a powerful testament to the greatness of God, focusing on His sovereignty over all creation. The song uses vivid imagery to evoke a profound sense of awe and wonder at the power of God.

The lyrics of “How Great Is Our God” declare that He is “above all powers” and “worth more than any earthly treasure.” The song highlights the universality of God’s dominion, encompassing all of creation from “mountains high” to “oceans deep.” This hymn acts as a powerful reminder of God’s unwavering love and his control over everything that surrounds us. It encourages us to acknowledge God’s greatness and to yield to His authority.

Chords and Lyrics: A Step-by-Step Guide

Verse 1: Setting the Stage

The song begins with the key of E major and establishes the foundational chords:

• E major (E – G# – B) – A powerful chord that builds tension. This chord is often used to introduce a theme or to convey a strong emotional expression.
• A major (A – C# – E) – A chord of resolution that adds a sense of stability and peace after the first chord.
• B major (B – D# – F#) – A brighter chord that brightens the mood and adds a touch of hope to the music.
• E major (E – G# – B) – A repetition of the first chord, reiterating the strong foundation and the emotional weight of the hymn.

Here are the lyrics of the first verse:

How great is our God?
All powerful, worthy of praise
Sing His name, exalt Him above
His kingdom will never fade

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Chorus: A Powerful Declaration

The chorus of “How Great Is Our God” is where the song explodes with power and emotion. It’s a triumphant declaration of God’s greatness, using a rhythmic blend of chords to drive home the message:

• E major (E – G# – B) – The primary chord of the song, used as a powerful anchor.
• B major (B – D# – F#) – A chord that adds a sense of brightness and anticipation.
• C#m (C# – E – G#) – A minor chord that adds a sense of depth and introspection.
• A major (A – C# – E) – A chord of resolution and stability that brings the chorus to a powerful close.

These chords are then repeated, creating a powerful and unforgettable melody:

He is God, Almighty God
You are the King of Kings
The Lord, the Lord of Lords
How great is our God

Verse 2: Exploring the Extent of His Power

The second verse continues to build upon the message of the first verse using the same chords as before:

From the highest heavens to the darkest deep
From the smallest atom to the stars that gleam
You are the One who reigns, you are the King
From age to age, our God, your glory rings

Chorus 2: Reiteration and Celebration

The chorus is repeated in this section, providing a powerful and unifying moment. The energy of the chorus further heightens the sense of wonder and praise for God.

Bridge: A Deeper Reflection

The bridge of “How Great Is Our God” adds a deeper level of reflection to the song. It introduces a minor key, creating a sense of introspection and contemplation:

• Am (A – C – E) – A gentle, introspective chord.
• Dm (D – F – A) – A chord that adds a sense of melancholy and longing.
• G (G – B – D) – A chord that provides a harmonic bridge between the minor and major chords.

The bridge continues with the same chords:

When I behold Your awesomeness
Your beauty, majesty, and power
I am amazed by Your love for me
From everlasting to everlasting
You are God

Chorus 3: A Powerful Climax

The final chorus serves as a powerful climax to the song, reiterating the message of God’s greatness and leading the listener to a sense of awe and profound gratitude.

Playing “How Great Is Our God”

Whether you’re playing on guitar, piano, or any other instrument, “How Great Is Our God” can be learned relatively easily. The chords are simple and repetitive, but the beauty of the song lies in the emotion and the message that it conveys. Here are a few tips for playing “How Great Is Our God”:

• Learn the basic chords. The song primarily uses E major, A major, B major, C#m (C# minor), and Am (A minor). Practice these chords until they feel comfortable.
• Focus on the rhythm. The song has a strong, driving beat that adds to its power. Pay attention to the timing and the emphasis of certain beats.
• Use dynamics. Vary the volume and intensity of your playing to enhance the emotional impact of the music. A softer verse followed by a louder chorus creates a powerful contrast.

Chords And Lyrics To How Great Is Our God

Conclusion: The Power of Music and Faith

“How Great Is Our God” is more than just a hymn; it’s a powerful expression of faith, awe, and wonder. It reminds us of the incredible power and love of God, and invites us to join in the chorus of praise and worship. Through its beautiful melody, impactful lyrics, and simple chords, “How Great Is Our God” offers a tangible way to connect with the Divine and to experience the power of music in our lives. Whether you’re a seasoned musician, a beginner, or simply someone who enjoys powerful music, we encourage you to learn “How Great Is Our God” and to experience the transformative power of this inspiring hymn.