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In 1982, the Smiths were active members at Belmont Church on Music Row in Nashville, a progressive worship fellowship. Sensing a need to augment the music, Michael said to Debbie, "We need to write some songs."

The music came quickly for "Great Is the Lord." Then the couple opened up the Bible to glean inspiration from their favorite part of Scripture—the Psalms. Psalm 145:3—"Great is the Lord and most worthy of praise"—proved the key phrase. Started on Thursday, the song was ready for the congregation Sunday.

For a long time, Michael says that whenever he heard the song sung he'd cry. Today, its presence in many hymnals is gratifying. To be part of the church's liturgy—alongside Michael's all-time favorite hymn, "Great Is Thy Faithfulness"—is humbling.

"To think that after I die, 'Great Is the Lord' will probably still be sung is overwhelming to me," he said.

Great is the Lord,
He is holy and just;
By His power we trust in His love.
Great is the Lord,
He is faithful and true;
By His mercy He proves He is love.

Great is the Lord and worthy of glory!
Great is the Lord and worthy of praise.
Great is the Lord; now lift up your voice,
Now lift up your voice:
Great is the Lord!
Great is the Lord!

Great are You, Lord, and worthy of glory!
Great are You, Lord, and worthy of praise.
Great are You, Lord; I lift up my voice,
I lift up my voice:
Great is the Lord!
Great is the Lord!

—words and music:
Michael W. Smith (1957—)
and Deborah D. Smith (1958—)

Lyrics © 1982 by Michael W. and Deborah D. Smith. Used by permission of Meadowgreen Music Company. All rights administered by EMI Christian Music Publishers.

Copyright © 2000 by the author or Christianity Today International/Today's Christian magazine (formerly Christian Reader).
Click here for reprint information.

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