1 Chronicles 16:28-29
This page isn't yet indexed by search engines.
Notice how the verse doesn't just say "people," but "families of the peoples." This reminds us that God's glory and strength aren't just for abstract masses, but for the very core units of society, the families that make up all nations. It’s an invitation to each family, no matter its origin, to recognize and respond to God's might.
Ascribe to the LORD, O families of the peoples, ascribe to the LORD glory and strength! Ascribe to the LORD the glory due his name; bring an offering and come before him! Worship the LORD in the splendor of holiness;
English Standard Version (ESV)
David has just brought the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem, and he's celebrating with a grand offering and a psalm of praise. This verse is part of that psalm, a call for all the "families of the peoples" to join in acknowledging God's power and majesty. It's a pivotal moment where the worship of Israel is expanding to recognize God's sovereignty over all nations, setting the stage for the temple building plans to come.
God's glory isn't just for one nation or people. This verse throws open the doors of worship to everyone.
All Nations, All Praise!
Isn't it amazing that the ancient writer, in a book focused on Israel's history, includes all the peoples? The command here isn't exclusive; it's expansive.
We're called to give God not just one thing, but two crucial attributes. What are they, and why are they so important?
More Than Just Praise
The verse calls us to "ascribe to the LORD glory and strength." These aren't just synonyms for praise; they represent distinct aspects of God's character and work that we are to acknowledge:
Ask a follow-up
When we acknowledge both, we get a more complete picture of our magnificent God.
Understand the original words
yahab · Hebrew Verb
To attribute, assign, or give credit to someone; in a biblical context, it implies publicly acknowledging God's rightful character and deeds.
kabod · Hebrew Noun
The heavy, weighty, or brilliant manifestation of God’s character, presence, and reputation; the visible display of His infinite worth.
minchah · Hebrew Noun
A material gift or sacrifice presented to God as an act of worship, thanksgiving, or atonement to recognize His ownership and sovereignty.
chavah · Hebrew Verb
Acts of bowing down, serving, or showing supreme reverence to God, recognizing Him as the sole object of devotion and authority.
qodesh · Hebrew Noun
The supreme moral purity and unique set-apartness of God that constitutes the foundation and beauty of His nature.
This Psalm echoes the call to ascribe glory and strength to the LORD, urging all heavenly beings and earthly powers to give Him the honor due His name.
Psalm 96:7-9This passage directly parallels the sentiment, calling on families and peoples to give the LORD the glory and strength He deserves, recognizing Him as unique and worthy of worship.
Isaiah 42:12The prophet Isaiah calls for all nations to give glory to the LORD, highlighting that His power and might are meant to be acknowledged and proclaimed throughout the earth.
1 Peter 4:11This New Testament text reminds believers that whatever gifts or abilities they have are to be used to bring glory to God, echoing the idea that all strength ultimately comes from Him.
Notice how the verse doesn't just say "people," but "families of the peoples." This reminds us that God's glory and strength aren't just for abstract masses, but for the very core units of society, the families that make up all nations. It’s an invitation to each family, no matter its origin, to recognize and respond to God's might.
David has just brought the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem, and he's celebrating with a grand offering and a psalm of praise. This verse is part of that psalm, a call for all the "families of the peoples" to join in acknowledging God's power and majesty. It's a pivotal moment where the worship of Israel is expanding to recognize God's sovereignty over all nations, setting the stage for the temple building plans to come.
David has just brought the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem, and he's celebrating with a grand offering and a psalm of praise. This verse is part of that psalm, a call for all the "families of the peoples" to join in acknowledging God's power and majesty. It's a pivotal moment where the worship of Israel is expanding to recognize God's sovereignty over all nations, setting the stage for the temple building plans to come.
"Ascribe to the LORD, O families of the peoples, ascribe to the LORD glory and strength! Ascribe to the LORD the glory due his name; bring an offering and come before him! Worship the LORD in the splendor of holiness;" — Notice how the verse doesn't just say "people," but "families of the peoples." This reminds us that God's glory and strength aren't just for abstract masses, but for the very core units of society, t…
Get the original Greek and Hebrew, verse-by-verse context, and related passages inside the app.
Last reviewed October 2026
