The “fear of the Lord” is a concept that has largely disappeared from modern worship vocabulary, yet Scripture tells us it is “the beginning of wisdom” (Proverbs 9:10). It isn’t about being scared of God; it is about being terrified of being away from Him. It is a holy, trembling awe that recognizes He is God and we are not.
When we lead songs about the fear of the Lord, we are inviting the church to take off their shoes because they are standing on holy ground. These songs lower the volume of our own preferences and raise the view of God’s transcendent majesty. They cultivate a spirit of deep reverence in the sanctuary.
Why These Songs Cultivate Awe
We selected these songs because:
- They are transcendent. They focus on the “otherness” of God—His holiness, mystery, and power.
- They invite posture. The lyrics often speak of bowing down, falling prostrate, or trembling, which encourages physical reverence.
- They are scriptural. They draw heavily from the throne room scenes in Isaiah 6 and Revelation.
8 Songs To Restore Reverence
- Only A Holy God – This song captures the paradox of the fear of the Lord: “Who else could make me stand in awe… and who else calls me friend?” It balances His terrifying holiness with His inviting grace perfectly.
- Agnus Dei – “Holy, Holy, are You Lord God Almighty.” This song brings the church into the eternal rhythm of heaven. It is hard to sing this song casually; it demands a posture of surrender and focus.
- Revelation Song – This anthem describes the scene around the throne: lightning, thunder, and living creatures. It helps the congregation visualize the weight of glory that surrounds the God we worship.
- Holy Forever – “Your name is the highest, Your name is the greatest.” This song connects us to the “thousand generations” who have fallen down in worship before us. It reminds us that God’s holiness is the one constant in history.
- What An Awesome God – Sometimes awe leaves us speechless. This song is simple and repetitive, allowing the weight of the lyrics to settle on the room without the distraction of complex music.
- Is He Worthy – The fear of the Lord includes recognizing His unique authority. This song asks, “Is anyone worthy?” and leads the church to the resounding conclusion that only the Lion of Judah can open the scroll.
- How Great Thou Art – The second verse speaks directly to reverence: “And when I think that God, His Son not sparing… I scarce can take it in.” That phrase—”scarce can take it in”—is the definition of holy awe.
- Here I Am To Worship – The chorus says, “Here I am to bow down.” This song reminds us that worship isn’t just singing; it is a physical and spiritual bowing before the King who is “altogether lovely” and “altogether worthy.”
Example Setlists For Reverence
Setlist 1 (Holy Ground)
- Holy Forever – Establishes the eternal holiness of God.
- Agnus Dei – Slows the room down for deep adoration.
- Only A Holy God – Responds to that holiness with awe and gratitude.
Setlist 2 (The Weight of Glory)
- What An Awesome God – A simple declaration of His nature.
- Revelation Song – Transports the church to the throne room.
- Is He Worthy – Affirms His authority over all history.
How To Use These Songs In Your Church
- Call for silence. We are often uncomfortable with dead air, but awe happens in the quiet. After singing Agnus Dei, allow 30 seconds of absolute silence for people to revere God.
- Encourage kneeling. If your sanctuary allows for it, invite people to kneel during Here I Am To Worship. A change in physical posture often leads to a change in heart posture.
- Read Isaiah 6. The vision of the seraphim crying “Holy, Holy, Holy” is the perfect introduction to this set. It gives context to why we sing these songs.
Next Steps
Is your worship service too casual? Do people rush in with coffee and chat through the opening song? This Sunday, start with Only A Holy God to reset the atmosphere and remind everyone that we have gathered to meet with the King of Kings.
By Lydia Hart, WorshipChords Editorial Staff
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