Majesty

Words and Music by Jack Hayford, 1934– O Lord, our Lord, how majestic is Your name in all the earth! (Psalm 8:1) There are many attributes of the Lord that should prompt our response of adoration and worship: His holiness, His power, His love … A very popular contemporary song by the Rev. Jack Hayford, senior pastor of the Church of the Way in Van Nuys, California, also teaches that the very regal majesty of Christ deserves our praise. This text further reminds us that Christ’s dominion over principalities, His power, and His absolute majesty in heaven are for the benefit of those who trust and follow Him here and now. Pastor Hayford relates the following account for the writing of “Majesty:” In 1977, my wife Anna and I spent our vacation in Great Britain, traveling throughout the land from the south country and Wales to the northern parts of Scotland. It was the same year as Queen Elizabeth’s 25th Anniversary of her coronation, and symbols of royalty were abundantly present beyond the usual. While viewing many of the ancient castles throughout the land, Pastor Hayford began to reflect on the truth that the provisions of Christ for the believer not only include our forgiveness for sin but provide a restoration to a royal relationship with God as sons and daughters born into the heavenly family through His Majesty. As Anna and I drove along together, at once the opening lyrics and melody of “Majesty” simply came to my heart, I seemed to feel something new of what it meant to be His—to be raised to a partnership with Him in His throne. Upon returning to our home in California, I was finally able to complete the song. Pastor Jack Hayford provides this interpretation for his song: “Majesty” describes the kingly, lordly, gloriously regal nature of our Savior—but not simply as an objective statement in worship of which He is fully worthy. “Majesty” is also a statement of the fact that our worship, when begotten in spirit and in truth, can align us with His throne in such a way that His Kingdom authority flows to us—to overflow us, to free us and channel through us. We are rescued from death, restored to the inheritance of sons and daughters, qualified for victory in battle against the adversary, and destined for the Throne forever in His presence. * * * * Majesty, worship His majesty—Unto Jesus be all glory, power and praise—Majesty, kingdom authority flow from His throne unto His own, His anthem raise. So exalt, lift up on high the name of Jesus—Magnify, come glorify Christ Jesus, the King. Majesty, worship His majesty—Jesus who died, now glorified, King of all kings. For Today: Psalm 29:4; 93:1; Hebrews 1:3; 2:9; Revelation 4:11 Allow your mind to think about the glory and majesty of Christ as the reigning King of Heaven. Worship Him with these words— Osbeck, K. W. (1996). Amazing grace: 366 inspiring hymn stories for daily devotions (273). Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel Publications.