“10,000 Reasons (Bless the Lord)” is a contemporary worship song written by British singer-songwriter Matt Redman and Swedish producer Jonas Myrin. It was released in 2011 as the title track of Redman’s album 10,000 Reasons. The song was inspired by Psalm 103, which begins with the words “Bless the Lord, O my soul.” Redman explained that the idea behind the song was to express endless gratitude to God — the “10,000 reasons” representing the countless blessings and mercies believers experience daily. It was written during a songwriting session at Redman’s church in Brighton, England, and came together quickly, which Redman described as one of those “rare moments when heaven touches earth in a song.”
Upon release, the song became one of the most widely sung worship anthems around the world. It won two Grammy Awards in 2013 — for Best Contemporary Christian Music Song and Best Gospel/Contemporary Christian Music Performance. It also topped the Billboard Christian Songs chart for several weeks and has been translated into multiple languages. Churches across denominations embraced it because of its simple melody and heartfelt message of worship and gratitude. Even years after its release, 10,000 Reasons (Bless the Lord) continues to inspire millions, reminding listeners to praise God through every season of life.
Words:
Bless the Lord O my soul, O my soul;
Sing like never before, O my soul;
I’ll worship Your holy name.
The sun comes up, it’s a new day dawning,
It’s time to sing Your song again.
Whatever may pass, and whatever lies before me,
Let me be singing when the evening comes.
You’re rich in love and You’re slow to anger.
Your name is great and Your heart is kind.
For all Your goodness, I will keep on singing;
Ten thousand reasons for my heart to find.
And on that day, when my strength is failing,
The end draws near and my time has come;
Still, my soul will sing Your praise unending
Ten thousand years, and then forevermore!
