The Lord’s my Shepherd, I’ll not want;
He makes me down to lie
In pastures green; He leadeth me
In pastures green; He leadeth me
The quiet waters by.
My soul He doth restore again,
And me to walk doth make
Within the paths of righteousness
Within the paths of righteousness
E’en for His own name’s sake.
Yea, though I walk in death’s dark vale,
Yet will I fear no ill;
For Thou art with me, and Thy rod
For Thou art with me, and Thy rod
And staff me comfort still.
My table Thou hast furnished
In presence of my foes;
My head Thou dost with oil anoint,
My head Thou dost with oil anoint
And my cup overflows.
Goodness and mercy all my life
Shall surely follow me,
And in God’s house forevermore
And in God’s house forevermore
My dwelling-place shall be.
The Lord’s My Shepherd, I’ll Not Want Video
The Lord’s My Shepherd, I’ll Not Want Song Meaning
**Title: The Lord’s My Shepherd, I’ll Not Want – A Song of Trust and Provision**
**Introduction**
“The Lord’s My Shepherd, I’ll Not Want” is a beloved hymn that has brought comfort and reassurance to countless souls throughout the years. Written by Jessie Seymour Irvine, this hymn is a poetic adaptation of Psalm 23 – a timeless and cherished passage from the Bible. Acapeldridge, a renowned a cappella group known for their beautiful renditions of classic hymns, has also recorded their own version of this song. In this article, we will explore the meaning behind “The Lord’s My Shepherd, I’ll Not Want,” its inspirational origins, and the Bible verses it is based on.
**The Meaning of “The Lord’s My Shepherd, I’ll Not Want”**
“The Lord’s My Shepherd, I’ll Not Want” is a hymn that expresses a deep sense of trust and provision. It emphasizes the unfailing care and guidance of the Lord, who is portrayed as a shepherd. Just as a shepherd tends to his sheep, the Lord lovingly tends to His people, supplying their every need and leading them in the right path. The hymn resonates with those who seek comfort and assurance in the midst of life’s challenges, reminding them that they can find contentment and security in their relationship with God.
**The Inspiration Behind “The Lord’s My Shepherd, I’ll Not Want”**
The inspiration behind “The Lord’s My Shepherd, I’ll Not Want” can be traced back to the timeless words of Psalm 23. Composed by King David, this psalm is a heartfelt expression of David’s trust in God’s loving care. It is believed that Jessie Seymour Irvine, an Irish poet and hymn writer, was deeply moved by the words of Psalm 23 and felt compelled to put them into verse. Her adaptation of this psalm became the hymn we know today as “The Lord’s My Shepherd, I’ll Not Want.”
**The Connection to Psalm 23**
“The Lord’s My Shepherd, I’ll Not Want” closely follows the themes and imagery found in Psalm 23. Let’s explore some key verses from the psalm that directly relate to the lyrics of the hymn:
1. Psalm 23:1 – “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.”
This verse serves as the foundation for the entire hymn. It declares the unwavering trust in the Lord’s provision and guidance. By acknowledging the Lord as our shepherd, we affirm our dependence on Him and recognize that He will meet all our needs.
2. Psalm 23:2 – “He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside still waters.”
The hymn echoes this verse, emphasizing the Lord’s role as our guide and provider. Just as a shepherd leads his sheep to lush pastures and calm waters, the Lord leads His people to places of rest and refreshment. The imagery used in the hymn paints a picture of tranquility and abundance under the Lord’s care.
3. Psalm 23:3 – “He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for His name’s sake.”
This verse speaks to the Lord’s role in restoring and guiding His people. The hymn captures this sentiment by acknowledging that the Lord restores our souls and leads us in paths of righteousness. It highlights the Lord’s desire to guide us according to His perfect will.
4. Psalm 23:4 – “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.”
This verse emphasizes the Lord’s presence and protection even in the darkest and most challenging times. The hymn echoes this assurance by declaring that even in death’s dark vale, we need not fear, for the Lord is with us, providing comfort and guidance.
5. Psalm 23:6 – “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever.”
The hymn concludes with this verse, expressing the unwavering faith in God’s goodness and mercy. It affirms the assurance of dwelling in the presence of the Lord for all eternity.
**The Beauty of Acapeldridge’s Rendition**
Acapeldridge, known for their enchanting a cappella performances, brings a unique touch to “The Lord’s My Shepherd, I’ll Not Want.” Their rendition highlights the timeless beauty of the hymn by showcasing the harmonious blend of voices. The absence of musical accompaniment allows the lyrics to take center stage, drawing listeners into the depths of the song’s meaning. Acapeldridge’s heartfelt rendition captures the essence of trust and reliance on God, resonating with those who yearn for a deeper connection with the divine.
**Conclusion**
“The Lord’s My Shepherd, I’ll Not Want” is a hymn that continues to touch hearts and offer solace in times of need. Inspired by the timeless words of Psalm 23, this hymn expresses a profound trust in the Lord’s provision and guidance. Acapeldridge’s rendition brings a new dimension to the hymn, allowing listeners to immerse themselves in the beauty of the lyrics. May this beloved hymn continue to inspire and uplift all those who seek comfort and reassurance in their journey of faith.
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