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Hymns have a unique power to touch our hearts and connect us to deep emotions that words alone can sometimes struggle to express. In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, they serve as a gentle reminder of our faith, hope, and the ever-present love of the Good Shepherd.
If you find solace and inspiration in the soothing melodies of hymns, then this list of 20 hymns about the Good Shepherd is for you. These timeless melodies have been cherished for generations, and each one tells a story of unwavering trust, guidance, and the boundless love of our Savior.
As we journey through these hymns, let their lyrics and melodies envelop us, reminding us of the Good Shepherd’s eternal promise to lead, protect, and provide.
Hymns About the Good Shepherd
1. The Lord’s My Shepherd” – Words by Francis Rous, Music by Jessie Seymour Irvine
This hymn opens our selection with words that have comforted countless hearts. As we sing, “The Lord’s my Shepherd, I’ll not want,” we are reminded of the abundance of goodness that flows from the Good Shepherd’s care. The serene melody by Jessie Seymour Irvine carries the lyrics gracefully, like a gentle stream winding through green pastures, providing nourishment and peace to our souls.
2. “Savior, Like a Shepherd Lead Us” – Dorothy A. Thrupp
Dorothy A. Thrupp’s hymn speaks of the Good Shepherd’s tender guidance, an ever-present presence in our lives. With lines like, “Blessed Jesus, blessed Jesus! Hear, O hear us when we pray,” we find solace in the knowledge that our Shepherd listens to our pleas and leads us with unwavering love. The comforting refrain, “Thou hast bought us, thine we are,” emphasizes the profound connection between the Shepherd and His flock.
3. “He Leadeth Me” – Joseph H. Gilmore
“He leadeth me, O blessed thought! O words with heavenly comfort fraught” begins this classic hymn by Joseph H. Gilmore. It beautifully encapsulates the notion that the Good Shepherd guides us through every twist and turn of life. The melody, both soothing and reassuring, wraps around the lyrics like a comforting embrace, reminding us that we are in safe hands.
4. “All the Way My Savior Leads Me” – Fanny Crosby
Fanny Crosby’s hymn weaves a tale of trust and unwavering faith in the Good Shepherd. With lines like, “For I know, whatever befall, Jesus doeth all things well,” we are encouraged to embrace life’s journey with the certainty that the Shepherd leads us through all circumstances. The melody carries us like a gentle breeze, whispering words of assurance and hope.
5. “My Shepherd Will Supply My Need” – Isaac Watts
Isaac Watts’ hymn echoes the comforting promise that the Good Shepherd provides for our every need. The tender lyrics and melodic simplicity blend harmoniously to remind us that we lack nothing in His care. As we sing, “No more a stranger or a guest, but like a child at home,” we are reminded of the intimacy we share with the Good Shepherd.
6. “The King of Love My Shepherd Is” – Henry W. Baker
This hymn, with lyrics by Henry W. Baker and music by John Bacchus Dykes, paints a vivid picture of the Good Shepherd’s love and guidance. The melodic beauty and poetic words create a sense of serenity, making us feel cherished and protected. “In death’s dark vale, I fear no ill, with thee, dear Lord, beside me” – these lines resonate deeply, reassuring us that even in our darkest moments, the Good Shepherd is our light.
7. “The Shepherd’s Voice I Heard” – John Newton
John Newton’s hymn captures the essence of recognizing and following the Shepherd’s voice. Its lyrics, like, “He knows my name, he knows my voice, he knows me as his own,” convey a profound sense of intimacy between the Shepherd and His sheep. The melody is like a comforting hand on our shoulder, guiding us through the Shepherd’s voice.
8. “Like a Shepherd” – Bill & Gloria Gaither
Bill & Gloria Gaither’s contemporary hymn “Like a Shepherd” beautifully blends modern melodies with the timeless message of the Good Shepherd’s care. As we sing, “Lead us, feed us, hold us, and fold us,” we are reminded of the Shepherd’s all-encompassing love and protection.
9. “Shepherd of My Soul” – Marty Nystrom
Marty Nystrom’s hymn is a heartfelt prayer to the Shepherd of our souls. Its lyrics express a deep longing for His guidance and presence. The melody carries the weight of our supplications, creating a sense of connection with the Shepherd who cares for our innermost needs.
10. “The Lord Is My Shepherd” – Howard Goodall
Howard Goodall’s hymn is known for its simplicity and the timeless beauty of its lyrics. It reflects on the comforting role of the Good Shepherd as our guide, protector, and provider. The melody gently enfolds us in the Shepherd’s care as we sing, “I shall not want, he makes me rest in fields of green.”
11. “Green Pastures” – Emmy Louharris
Emmy Louharris’s hymn, “Green Pastures,” paints a picturesque image of the Good Shepherd leading us to tranquil pastures. The words, “My soul he doth restore again, and me to walk doth make within the paths of righteousness,” convey a sense of renewal and spiritual nourishment. The melody complements this imagery, inviting us to find solace in the Shepherd’s presence.
12. “Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah” – William Williams
William Williams’ hymn is a powerful plea for guidance and strength from the Good Shepherd. It reminds us that, like the Israelites of old, we too rely on the Shepherd’s guidance through life’s wilderness. The melody carries the weight of this plea, inspiring us to trust in the Shepherd’s leading.
13. “Though I May Speak” – Hymn by Hal H. Hopson
“Though I may speak with bravest fire,” this hymn by Hal H. Hopson reminds us that even in our human frailty, we can be shepherds to one another, following the example of the Good Shepherd. The heartfelt melody underlines the message that through our actions and words, we can reflect the Shepherd’s love and care.
14. “Shepherd Me, O God” – Marty Haugen
Marty Haugen’s hymn is a sincere prayer for the Shepherd’s guidance and protection. With lines like, “Beyond my wants, beyond my fears, from death into life,” it reminds us of the Shepherd’s ability to lead us through life’s challenges. The melody carries a sense of hope and trust, making us feel secure in the Shepherd’s embrace.
15. “My Shepherd, You Supply My Need” – Isaac Watts
This hymn by Isaac Watts is a poetic reflection on the Shepherd’s care. The lyrics, “Thy mercy shall follow me all the days,” emphasize the unending nature of the Shepherd’s love and provision. The melody flows like a soothing river, mirroring the comforting assurance that the Shepherd is always with us.
16. “When You Sheperd Me” – Brian Doerksen
Brian Doerksen’s contemporary hymn speaks to the Shepherd’s intimate knowledge of His flock. The lyrics, “You know my voice, you know my name, you know my past, and everything I’ve done,” highlight the depth of the Shepherd’s relationship with each one of us. The melody is a gentle reminder of the personal connection we share with the Good Shepherd.
17. “The Lord’s My Shepherd” (Crimond) – Words by Francis Rous, Music by Jessie Seymour Irvine
This beloved hymn, also known as “Crimond,” opens our selection with words that have comforted countless hearts. As we sing, “The Lord’s my Shepherd, I’ll not want,” we are reminded of the abundance of goodness that flows from the Good Shepherd’s care. The serene melody by Jessie Seymour Irvine carries the lyrics gracefully, like a gentle stream winding through green pastures, providing nourishment and peace to our souls.
18. “The King of Love My Shepherd Is” – Words by Henry W. Baker, Music by John Bacchus Dykes
This hymn beautifully captures the essence of the Good Shepherd as our guiding and loving King. The combined efforts of Henry W. Baker’s lyrics and John Bacchus Dykes’ music create a harmonious piece that envelops us in the Shepherd’s grace and care.
19. “Shepherd of Tender Youth” – Clement of Alexandria, TR. By Henry M. Dexter
Clement of Alexandria’s timeless hymn, translated by Henry M. Dexter, serves as a prayer for the young and the eager to be led by the Shepherd. The melody carries a sense of youthful zeal, reminding us that the Shepherd guides us even in our most fervent pursuits.
20. “Lead Me, Lord” – Samuel Sebastian Wesley
Samuel Sebastian Wesley’s hymn, “Lead Me, Lord,” is a humble plea for the Shepherd’s guidance. The words resonate with sincerity, asking the Shepherd to lead us through life’s uncertainties. The melody carries this earnest request, making us feel the Shepherd’s hand leading the way.
Parting Words on Hymns About the Good Shepherd
As we conclude this collection of hymns, may the timeless melodies and heartfelt lyrics of these songs resonate with you and remind you of the Good Shepherd’s unwavering love, guidance, and care.
These hymns have touched the hearts of many and continue to inspire faith and hope in the Shepherd who leads us all. So, as you listen to or sing these hymns, may you find comfort, solace, and inspiration in the beautiful message of the Good Shepherd.
