Lord I lift your name on high
Lord I love to sing your praises
I'm so glad you are in my life
I'm so glad you came to save us
Lord I lift your name on high
Lord I love to sing your praises
I'm so glad you are in my life
I'm so glad you came to save us
You came from heaven to earth, to show the way
From the earth to the cross, my debt to pay
From the cross to the grave, from the grave to the sky
Lord I lift your name on high
You came from heaven to earth, to show the way
From the earth to the cross, my debt to pay
From the cross to the grave, from the grave to the sky
From the grave to the sky
From the grave to the sky
From the grave to the sky
From the grave to the sky
From the grave to the sky
From the grave to the sky
From the grave to the...
You came from heaven to earth, to show the way
From the earth to the cross, my debt to pay
From the cross to the grave, from the grave to the sky
Lord I lift your name on high
Lord I lift your name on high
Lord I lift your name on high
Lord I lift your name on high
Lord I lift your name on high
Lord I Lift Your Name On High
Lord I Lift Your Name On High Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration
"Lord I Lift Your Name On High," as performed by Donnie McClurkin, is a widely recognized worship anthem that resonates deeply with listeners. This particular performance, highlighted by its release in a video format on November 23, 2014, showcases McClurkin's powerful vocal delivery and heartfelt connection to the song's message. His rendition brings a dynamic and Spirit-filled dimension to the already popular worship chorus, making it a staple in many contemporary gospel and praise settings. The video serves as a tangible representation of this enduring performance, allowing the message to reach a broader audience.
The meaning of the song is straightforward and profound, focusing on core tenets of Christian faith. The opening lines express direct adoration and love for God, stating a personal connection and joy in His presence. This transitions into gratitude for God's active role in the believer's life and, crucially, for His act of salvation. The simple yet impactful phrases establish a foundation of personal worship and thanksgiving.
The central part of the song vividly traces the redemptive journey of Jesus Christ. It outlines His descent from heaven to earth, signifying the incarnation and His purpose to illuminate the path for humanity. It moves to His journey from earth to the cross, explicitly stating that this was to pay the debt for sin. The narrative then follows Him from the cross to the grave, acknowledging His death and burial. Finally, it describes His movement from the grave to the sky, representing the resurrection and ascension. This concise yet comprehensive narrative encapsulates the essence of the Gospel story.
These lyrical themes are firmly rooted in numerous biblical passages. The call to lift God's name high and sing praises echoes sentiments found throughout the Psalms, such as Psalm 145:1, "I will extol you, my God and King, and bless your name forever and ever." The gratitude for God being in one's life and coming to save aligns with verses like John 3:16, "For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life," and Romans 10:9, "because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved."
The detailed journey of Christ described in the song finds its scriptural basis in various New Testament accounts. Jesus coming from heaven to earth to show the way is seen in scriptures like John 1:1, 14, describing the Word becoming flesh. His death on the cross to pay the debt for sin is central to passages like 1 Peter 2:24, "He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed," and Romans 5:8, "but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us." The journey from the cross to the grave is recounted in the Gospel narratives of Jesus' burial (e.g., Matthew 27:57-61). The final movement from the grave to the sky encapsulates the resurrection and ascension, as documented in passages like 1 Corinthians 15:3-4, describing Christ dying, being buried, and rising on the third day, and Acts 1:9-11, which details His ascension into heaven.
The repetition in the latter part of the lyrics, particularly focusing on "From the grave to the sky," serves to emphasize the triumph of the resurrection and ascension. This focus reinforces the victory over death and the ultimate exaltation of Christ. Donnie McClurkin's rendition often highlights this section, building intensity and underscoring the song's powerful message of hope and finished work of salvation. The song's structure, moving from personal praise to theological declaration and back to worshipful affirmation, makes it a compelling piece for congregational singing and personal devotion, solidifying its place as an inspirational anthem celebrating God's character and Christ's redemptive work.
