God Of Love My Shepherd Is – Hymn Lyric
The hymn “God of Love My Shepherd Is” beautifully captures the essence of divine care, provision, and protection. Through its verses, the hymn reminds us of the boundless love and guidance that God extends to His people. In this exploration, we will delve deeper into the meaning behind the hymn, reflecting on the comforting imagery and understanding how it relates to our day-to-day lives.
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God Of Love My Shepherd Is – Hymn Lyric
The God of love my Shepherd is,
And He that doth me feed;
While He is mine and I am His,
What can I want or need?
He leads me to the tender grass,
Where I both feed and rest;
Then to the streams that gently pass:
In both I have the best.
Or if I stray, He doth convert,
And bring my mind in frame,
And all this not for my desert,
But for His holy Name.
Yea, in death‘s shady black abode
Well may I walk, not fear;
For Thou art with me, and Thy rod
To guard, Thy staff to bear.
Surely Thy sweet and wondrous love
Shall measure all my days;
And as it never shall remove
So neither shall my praise.
Meaning of God Of Love My Shepherd Is
The hymn “God of Love My Shepherd Is” beautifully captures the essence of divine care, provision, and protection. Through its verses, the hymn reminds us of the boundless love and guidance that God extends to His people. In this exploration, we will delve deeper into the meaning behind the hymn, reflecting on the comforting imagery and understanding how it relates to our day-to-day lives.
As the hymn begins with the words, “The God of love my Shepherd is,” we are immediately reminded of the tender and compassionate nature of our Heavenly Father. Just like a shepherd cares for and guides his sheep, God takes it upon Himself to look after and provide for us. This imagery evokes a sense of warmth and security, assuring us that we are never alone in life‘s journey.
The hymn emphasizes the reciprocity of the relationship between God and His people with the lines, “And He that doth me feed; While He is mine and I am His, What can I want or need?” Here, we are reminded that as we surrender ourselves to God’s loving care, we will lack nothing. He knows our every need and is always faithful to meet them. This thought brings immense comfort, assuring us that in Him, we have everything we could ever require.
Continuing further, the hymn describes how God leads us to “the tender grass, Where I both feed and rest; Then to the streams that gently pass: In both I have the best.” This imagery reflects the nurturing nature of God’s love. Just as a shepherd guides his sheep to find nourishing pastures and still waters, God leads us to places of rest, refreshment, and spiritual nourishment. In His presence, we find solace and a space to rejuvenate our weary souls.
Even when we go astray, the hymn affirms that God lovingly restores our minds and brings us back into alignment with His will. It says, “Or if I stray, He doth convert, And bring my mind in frame.” This speaks to the grace and mercy of God, who, despite our shortcomings and wanderings, offers forgiveness and restoration. No matter how many times we may stumble, God is always ready to welcome us back into His loving embrace.
The hymn powerfully highlights that God’s love is not based on our merits or deservingness. It states, “And all this not for my desert, But for His holy Name.” This reminds us that God’s love is unconditional and not dependent on our worthiness. His love is rooted in His character and His desire to demonstrate His goodness to the world. This truth should fill us with gratitude and motivate us to live lives that bring glory to His name.
One of the most comforting aspects of this hymn is the acknowledgment that even in the face of death, we need not fear. The lines, “Yea, in death’s shady black abode Well may I walk, not fear; For Thou art with me, and Thy rod To guard, Thy staff to bear,” remind us that through all the challenges and uncertainties of life, God is our constant companion. We need not fear the unknown because He is by our side, guiding and protecting us.
The concluding lines of the hymn celebrate the everlasting nature of God’s love and praise. It says, “Surely Thy sweet and wondrous love Shall measure all my days; And as it never shall remove, So neither shall my praise.” This assures us that God’s love knows no bounds. His love will continue to encompass us for eternity, and our praise and adoration for Him will endure forever.
In conclusion, the hymn “God of Love My Shepherd Is” serves as a beautiful reminder of God’s unwavering love, guidance, and provision in our lives. Through vivid imagery and heartfelt lyrics, it paints a picture of a caring Shepherd who leads, protects, and provides for His flock. May this hymn resonate in our hearts and remind us to trust in God’s unfailing love, finding comfort and peace in His ever-present care.
I hope this hymn inspired image brings you hope and peace. Share it with someone who needs it today!