Jimmy D Psalmist - Great and Terrible God Lyrics

Great and Terrible God

Great and Terrible God Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration

"Great and Terrible God" by Jimmy D Psalmist is a powerful gospel track released on February 21, 2018, that delves into the majestic and awe-inspiring nature of the Almighty. The song captures the paradox of a God who is transcendent, seated in heaven with the earth as His footstool, yet also intimately immanent, dwelling within believers as "the river of life." This duality is a central theme, presenting a deity whose power and presence are both overwhelming and deeply personal.

The lyrics describe God's cosmic power and creative might, referencing His role as the builder of the earth, roofing it with the heavens without visible support—a testament to His inherent power, unbound by physical limitations ("No pillar no walls"). His voice is depicted as thunder, a symbol of His authority and might, and He is clothed in yards of fire, signifying His holiness, purity, and consuming power. The term "terrible" in this context conveys not evil, but rather a sense of profound awe, reverence, and fear induced by His sheer magnitude and glory, aligning with biblical descriptions of encountering the divine.

The song's message resonates with various scriptural themes. The image of God sitting in heaven with the earth as His footstool is found in passages like Isaiah 66:1 and Acts 7:49, illustrating His supreme authority and position over creation. The concept of God living within believers as the "river of life" echoes Jesus' words in John 7:38, promising spiritual life and blessing flowing from within. The description of God's eyes like fire can be linked to Revelation 1:14, portraying the intensity and purity of His gaze. Furthermore, His voice like thunder is a frequent motif in the Psalms (e.g., Psalm 29), symbolizing His powerful and commanding presence, while being clothed in fire reflects His nature as a consuming fire, mentioned in Hebrews 12:29 and Exodus 24:17.

The repetitive structure, particularly in the chorus with the declaration "Great and terrible God, Yes you reign," serves as an act of worship and reinforces the central message of God's sovereignty. The incorporation of interjections like "Ewoh ewoh," "Elee elee," "Iyammi oo iyammi oo," and "Chimoo chimoo" adds a layer of passionate, possibly indigenous, expression of adoration and awe, enhancing the worshipful atmosphere of the song. Despite the depiction of a "terrible" God, the final verse offers reassurance and confidence, stating, "I'm not afraid, not afraid," emphasizing that this powerful, awe-inspiring God is also the one who reigns and is the source of strength and security for believers. This juxtaposition of fear-inducing majesty and comforting reign encapsulates the complex yet beautiful nature of God as experienced in faith.