The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: He leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake.
Psalm 23:1–3
Words: Anne Steele, Poems on Subjects Chiefly Devotional 1760, pages 159–60. The heavenly Shepherd.
Music: Gorton (West) arranged from Beethoven by John E. West (1863–1929) (🔊 pdf nwc).
Alternate Tunes:
If you know where to get a good picture of Steele (head-and-shoulders, at least 200×300 pixels), would you ?
While my Redeemer’s near,
My shepherd and my guide,
I bid farewell to anxious fear,
My wants are all supplied.
To ever fragrant meads,
Where rich abundance grows,
His gracious hand indulgent leads,
And guards my sweet repose.
Along the lovely scene,
Cool waters gently roll,
And kind refreshment smiles serene,
To cheer my fainting soul.
Here let my spirit rest;
How sweet a lot is mine!
With pleasure, food, and safety blest;
Beneficence divine!
Dear Shepherd, if I stray,
My wandering feet restore,
To Thy fair pastures guide my way,
And let me rove no more.
Unworthy, as I am,
Of Thy protecting care,
Jesus, I plead Thy gracious name,
For all my hopes are there.