Total Praise
Theology & Meaning
Total Praise, written by Richard Smallwood, is one of the great gospel compositions of the 20th century — a sustained act of praise that is total in scope: 'Lord, I will lift mine eyes to the hills, knowing my help is coming from you.' The combination of Psalm 121 imagery with the exuberant gospel tradition creates a song that is both contemplative in its beginning and celebratory in its fullness. The 'total' of the title is theological: not partial, not conditional, but all of what the worshiper has directed entirely toward God.
Worship Leadership Tips
Total Praise crosses a broader stylistic spectrum than most gospel compositions and is regularly sung in mainline, evangelical, Catholic, and charismatic contexts. Its classicism — built on a formal compositional framework that echoes the choral tradition — gives it gravitas that more contemporary praise songs do not carry. Use it in services of high solemnity, in choral worship settings, or as a congregational closer that builds to genuine doxological overflow. Choirs who can execute the full harmonic richness of the Smallwood arrangement will find this song permanently in their repertoire.
Arrangement Tips
The traditional choral arrangement is the gold standard — piano, full choir, and orchestra create an overwhelming worship experience. But the song also works with a simpler arrangement: piano and two voices can carry the essential dignity of the composition. If you have a choir or strong vocal team, use them fully. The dynamic arc from the quiet opening ('Lord, I will lift mine eyes') to the full gospel declaration at the chorus is one of the most effective in the repertoire.
Scripture References
- Psalm 34:1-3
- Psalm 103:1-2
- Romans 11:36
- Revelation 4:11