How Great Thou Art
Nathan Carter Lyrics

Nathan Carter's "How Great Thou Art" begins with a profound expression of reverence towards the Creator. The opening lines reveal a deep sense of wonder and admiration for the natural world, emphasizing the beauty and majesty of God's creations. The phrase "When I, in awesome wonder" encapsulates a contemplative state of mind, where the singer reflects on the vastness of the universe and its intricate details. The imagery of stars and "rolling thunder" serves to illustrate the power and grandeur of the divine, underscoring the idea that God's presence is felt throughout nature. This invocation effectively invites the listener to share in this moment of awe, encouraging a connection to the broader spiritual experience of observing the world's splendor, which ultimately leads to an overwhelming appreciation for God's greatness.

As the song transitions into the second verse, the focus shifts from creation to the sacrificial act of love embodied in Jesus Christ. The profound realization of God sending His son "not sparing" serves to highlight the depth of divine compassion and the magnitude of this act of sacrifice. The singer grapples with the emotional weight of Christ's crucifixion, reflected in the lines "I scarce can take it in." This struggle to fully comprehend the enormity of God's love in allowing such suffering is a relatable sentiment, emphasizing human vulnerability and the complexity of faith. The imagery of Jesus bearing sins on the cross conveys a message of redemption, evoking feelings of gratitude and humility. Here, the refrain of "Then sings my soul" reinforces the transformative power of this awareness, leading to an outpouring of worship as an expression of the singer’s deep-seated faith and the emotional release that comes from recognizing God's mercy.

The third verse transitions to eschatological themes that frame the believer’s hope for Christ's return. The anticipation of Christ "shall come, with shout of acclamation" serves as a reminder of the ultimate promise of salvation and the joy that accompanies it. This future event is portrayed as a moment of immense joy and fulfillment, an emotional climax that emphasizes the believer's aspiration for spiritual homecoming. The singer conveys the deep-seated joy and elation that will fill their heart upon this reunion, cultivating a spirit of longing and hope. The act of bowing in "humble adoration" reflects a posture of reverence and submission, culminating in a proclamation of worship directed toward God's greatness. This powerful imagery acts as an invitation for listeners to embrace this hopeful anticipation within their faith journey, connecting them to divine promise and reinforcing the significance of Jesus’ sacrifice.

In the closing lines, the repetition of "how great thou art" serves as a powerful mantra, encapsulating the themes of the song. It reinforces the core message of glorifying God both in the appreciation of His creations and in recognition of His profound love and sacrifice through Christ. This refrain acts as a spiritual anchor, inviting not only the singer but also the listener to partake in a shared celebration of faith. As a whole, the song emphasizes the interconnectedness of awe, gratitude, and hope within spirituality. It underscores the significance of recognizing God's greatness across varying dimensions—nature, love, and the promise of eternal life. Ultimately, "How Great Thou Art" emerges not just as a testament to worship but as a call to embrace the multifaceted nature of faith and the overwhelming grace it embodies.