584

Je louerai l’Eternel (Praise, I Will Praise You Lord)

Scripture References

Further Reflections on Scripture References

See how Psalm 148 is the primary reference, but a similar thought is found in Psalms 8, 33, 104, and 135. In addition, God’s provocative questions to Job in Job 38-41 aim to stir similar praise, awe and humility. However, back in Genesis 1 and 2 we are motivated to do the same.

Confessions and Statements of Faith References

Further Reflections on Confessions and Statements of Faith References

Sometimes the soul of the Christian needs to cry out exuberantly with joy, thanks, and adoration, even without identifying the reasons for such praise and adoration. Moreover, Christians who gather corporately find it fitting to do so as the grateful body of Christ. The Confessions of the church recognize this natural expression. Belgic Confession, Article 1 sees God as the “overflowing source of all good,” and such a realization deserves an “Alleluia!” Heidelberg Catechism, Lord’s Day 1, Question and Answer 2 is a reminder that living in the joy of our comfort involves a spirit of thanks for his deliverance. In the same spirit, Our World Belongs to God, paragraph 2 exclaims, “God is King: Let the earth be glad! Christ is victor: his rule has begun! The Spirit is at work: creation is renewed!” and then as a natural response cries: “Hallelujah! Praise the Lord!”

584

Je louerai l’Eternel (Praise, I Will Praise You Lord)

Tune Information

Name
JE LOUERAI L'ETERNAL
Key
F Major
Meter
6.4.11.6.6.4.11.4

Recordings

Musical Suggestion

The expressive phrases of “Je louerai l’Éternal” lend themselves well to piano accompaniment if the pianist resists the urge to force too much rubato on the singers. It also sings surprisingly well with organ accompaniment. Organists might be tempted to play the whole song with low flutes and gedakt stops in an effort to be more expressive, but will find new life in this song if they consider adding a brighter mixture at least to the final stanza.
(from Reformed Worship, Issue 100)
— Tim TenClay

This simply hymn of praise fits comfortably next to songs such as “Seek Ye First.” It can be equally well-led by piano, organ, guitar, or four-part voices.
— Global Songs for Worship
584

Je louerai l’Eternel (Praise, I Will Praise You Lord)

Author Information

Kenneth I. Morse (1913-1999) graduated from Juniata College, Huntingdon, Pennsylvania, and earned a master's degree in English literature from Pennsylvania State University. He taught in public schools until 1943 and then worked on the denominational staff of the Church of the Brethren until his retirement in 1978. The editor of several books and magazines, he also wrote many poems and hymns, as well as a book on worship entitled Move in Our Midst (1977). Morse served on the committee that produced the Hymnal, A Worship Book (1992) of the Brethren and Mennonite churches.
— Bert Polman

Author and Composer Information

Claude Fraysee (b. 1941) was born in Versaille. He is a music teacher and a minister in the Reformed Church of France, serving primarily as an evangelistic musician. He has written many hymns, and has contributed in great measure to the song books Arc-en-ciel and Alléluia. 
— Laura de Jong

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