"What Shall I Render to Jehovah" Lyrics Overview The phrase "What shall I render to Jehovah" draws from Psalm 116:12 in the Bible, inspiring numerous Christian worship songs across genres, especially in gospel and hymn traditions. These songs express gratitude for God's blessings, often asking what offering is worthy in return. Popular versions blend English lyrics with African languages like Igbo, reflecting global worship trends as of March 2026.

Primary Versions Found

Multiple songs share this title or opening line, with roots in Nigerian/Ghanaian gospel and traditional hymns. Here's a breakdown of key ones:

  • Tim Godfrey ft. Travis Greene – "Nara Ekele Mo" (Most Popular Modern Hit)
    This 2018 track exploded in African worship circles and remains a staple in church services worldwide. It starts with the query of repayment for God's deeds, transitioning to thanksgiving chants. Full lyrics include:

What shall I render to Jehovah?
For he has done so very much for me
What shall I render to Jehovah?
For he has done so very much for me
Nara nara e, Narakele Narakele Mo
(Nara = "Give" or "Accept" in Igbo; Ekele Mo = "Take my thanksgiving")

Pre-chorus and chorus expand:
Nara ekele mo (repeated for emphasis on praise).
It highlights healing ("Chukwu na gwom o") and heart-knowledge ("Chukwu mara obim o"), making it a high-energy praise anthem.

  • Traditional Hymn Style (e.g., "What Shall I Render to the Lord")
    Older versions, like those in hymnals, echo Psalm 116 directly:

What shall I render to the Lord?
For all His benefits toward me
He graciously supplies my needs and my desires...
All that I am, All that I do, All that I have belongs to God.

Performed by artists like Bro. Erwin Villas (Siloam Bible Baptist, 2022), it emphasizes grace, testimony, and living sacrifice:

Lord, let me give all that I am... A living sacrifice I give myself to Thee.

  • Theo Milford's Medley (Recent 2026 Release)
    A live worship medley from Community Praise Church flows from "Nara" into "Imela" (thank you) by Nathaniel Bassey, then "My Soul Says Yes." Lyrics mirror the Igbo-English style:

What shall I render to Jehovah? For he has done so very much for me...
Nara nara e, Narakele Narakele Mo.
This version gained traction in early 2026 for its nonstop praise vibe.

Cultural and Trending Context

African Gospel Influence : Since the 2010s, songs like "Nara" have trended on YouTube (millions of views) and TikTok challenges, blending biblical themes with upbeat rhythms. By March 2026, remixes and live sessions (e.g., Theo Milford's Feb 2026 upload) keep it viral in Ghanaian/Nigerian churches.

Multiple Viewpoints :

  • Worship Leaders praise its simplicity for congregational singing.
  • Hymn Purists prefer slower, solo renditions like Rico Angelo Castro's for reflection.
  • Global Fans on forums note its cross-over appeal, from Baptist choirs to Pentecostal revivals.

Version| Artist/Origin| Key Theme| Year
---|---|---|---
Nara Ekele Mo| Tim Godfrey ft. Travis Greene| Thanksgiving in Igbo| 20185
Solo Baptist| Bro. Erwin Villas| Living sacrifice| 20221
Worship Medley| Theo Milford| Nonstop praise flow| 20263
Hymn Classic| Various (Psalm-based)| Gratitude for mercy| 1700s–present28

Usage Tips and Stories

Churches often pair these during Easter or testimony services—imagine a packed sanctuary in Lagos, voices rising in "Nara" as sunlight streams through windows, turning personal gratitude into communal joy. Search YouTube for live performances to feel the energy.

TL;DR : The core lyrics revolve around "What shall I render to Jehovah for his many blessings?"—check Tim Godfrey's "Nara" for the chart-topping version or traditional hymns for solemn takes. All rooted in timeless biblical praise.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.