Old Testament
1 Chronicles 16:8
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
This verse encourages us to express our gratitude to God.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Ezra
- Written
- Around 430 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Post-exilic Jews
"Give thanks to the LORD! Call on his name! Tell the nations what he has done.
Give thanks unto the LORD, call upon his name, make known his deeds among the people.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse encourages us to express our gratitude to God. It reminds us that thanking Him is not just a private act but something we should share with others. Calling on His name means reaching out to Him in prayer and seeking His help. We are also urged to tell others about the wonderful things He has done in our lives. Sharing our experiences can inspire hope and faith in those around us. It’s a call to be vocal about our faith and to celebrate the goodness we’ve witnessed. By doing this, we not only honor God but also build a community of believers who can support one another. Remembering and sharing His deeds helps us stay connected to our faith and encourages others to seek Him too. This verse is a powerful reminder of the importance of gratitude and testimony in our spiritual journey, inviting us to actively participate in sharing God’s love and goodness with the world around us. It’s about making our faith visible and impactful in our daily lives and interactions.
Related Bible verses
How to apply 1 Chronicles 16:8 to your life
Take a moment each day to reflect on what you are thankful for. Share your experiences of God’s goodness with friends or family. Consider writing down your thoughts or even starting a conversation about faith. Your story can inspire others and strengthen your own faith journey. Remember, gratitude is contagious and powerful in building connections with others who seek hope and encouragement in their lives. “Give thanks to the LORD!”
Curated for this public verse page. 1 Chronicles Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 1 Chronicles 16:8 mean?
1 Chronicles 16:8 encourages us to express gratitude to God and to share our experiences of His goodness with others. It highlights the importance of calling on God in prayer and making His deeds known among people.
What is the meaning of 'give thanks' in 1 Chronicles 16:8?
In this verse, 'give thanks' means to actively express gratitude to God for His blessings and actions in our lives. It emphasizes that thankfulness should be shared, not kept to ourselves.
How can I apply 1 Chronicles 16:8 in my life?
You can apply this verse by taking time each day to reflect on what you are thankful for and sharing those experiences with others. Engaging in conversations about faith can inspire hope and strengthen your community.
What does 'call on his name' mean in 1 Chronicles 16:8?
'Call on his name' means to reach out to God in prayer, seeking His help and guidance. It signifies a personal relationship with God where we can express our needs and gratitude.

The Book of 1 Chronicles
Genealogies (Chs 1–9)
The record begins with the line from Adam to Noah and his sons: Shem, Ham, and Japheth. The descendants of Japheth are listed, followed by the descendants of Ham, which include Nimrod, a mighty one in the earth, and the ancestors of the Philistines. The line of Shem is traced down to Abram, who is Abraham. The sons of Abraham—Ishmael and Isaac—are named, along with the sons of Abraham’s concubine Keturah. The generations of Ishmael are listed, followed by the descendants of Isaac’s son Esau, including the dukes and early kings of Edom.
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