1 Chronicles 16:25

For great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised: he also is to be feared aboue all gods. 1 Chronicles 16:25 (KJV)

The verse declares, “For great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised: he also is to be feared above all gods,” proclaiming the incomparable greatness of the Lord. The Hebrew term rendered “great” is gadol, a word that conveys magnitude, power, and majesty. It stresses that God stands far above any other being or deity, a truth that reverberates throughout Scripture.

This attribute of God’s greatness is repeatedly affirmed in the biblical narrative, reminding believers of His infinite power, wisdom, and sovereign rule. No created thing can compare with Him, and His greatness is unmatched.

In the ancient Near Eastern context many nations worshiped a pantheon of gods, each linked to a particular aspect of life. The verse’s call to fear the LORD “above all gods” underscores the biblical affirmation of monotheism. Psalm 96:5 declares that “all the gods of the nations are idols,” and the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:3‑5) command that no other god be placed before the LORD. Thus the passage reinforces the exclusive worship owed to the one true God.

For contemporary believers the passage remains a clear invitation to acknowledge God’s greatness with both praise and reverent fear. It challenges us to give Him the honor He deserves and to guard against any form of idolatry—whether through physical idols or by elevating anything above God in our lives. Exclusive worship of the Lord reflects His unique supremacy and aligns our hearts with the biblical call to monotheistic devotion.

Let this truth shape our worship: proclaim God’s greatness, offer sincere praise, and maintain a holy fear that keeps Him above all else.