Now Blessed Be the Lord (Jehovah) Our God

Now Blessed Be the Lord Our God is a metrical psalm from the 1650 Scottish Psalter, set to a tune later adapted by American composer Oliver Holden, known for his work in early 19th-century hymnody. This psalm-hymn combination reflects the historic Reformed tradition of singing Scripture in congregational worship, blending careful biblical text with accessible musical settings that encourage corporate praise.

The hymn draws directly from Psalm 72, invoking God’s blessings on His people and calling the faithful to honor His sovereign rule. It emphasizes God’s justice, mercy, and provision, celebrating His governance over the earth and His care for the oppressed. The words also reflect the communal dimension of worship, inviting the congregation to join together in praise, echoing the biblical injunction to “serve the Lord with gladness” and “make His name known among the nations” (Psalm 113:1-3).

Oliver Holden’s adaptation, known as the tune CORONATION (Holden), provides a dignified, singable melody suitable for both intimate and large congregational settings. The tune’s clarity and rhythmic structure enhance the devotional and didactic purpose of the psalm, enabling worshippers to internalize the biblical text through music.

Theologically, the hymn underscores God’s sovereignty, providence, and faithfulness. It affirms that all blessing originates from the Lord and that the faithful are called to respond in gratitude, obedience, and worship. The psalm’s message is timeless, reminding believers that God’s rule is righteous, enduring, and worthy of universal acclaim.

Now Blessed Be the Lord Our God continues to be used in Reformed and Presbyterian traditions, both in its original Scottish Psalter form and with Holden’s tune, as a model of how Scripture can be sung devotionally, reinforcing biblical literacy, doctrinal fidelity, and heartfelt worship.