Shepherd me, Father

Shepherd Me, Father

Shepherd me, Father 

Direct my hooves to the highlands, 

Feed me with the greenest grass of open fields, 

Lead my soul to springs that I may drink,

Finding eternal life in every sip 

May I never grow fat on my choice diet—

But rather be nourished by your wine and honey

Guide me, Oh shepherd. 

Through the open country and narrow paths 

Let your voice, like a sweet orchestra, conduct my every step, 

Lest I leap ahead of you and fall into a dirge. 

Keep me from straying into the path of fangs, 

From wandering around the edges of death. 

Let me find safety in your fold 

Too often, I found the appetite at the foot of the valley,

And I returned filled up with scars of wolves,

Do not leave me to my own devices, 

Lest I self-destruct 

I will ascend the heights of your holy mountain,

Lest the scavenging of my flesh becomes sure,

And my bones will certainly marry the dust. 

O shepherd of my soul. 

I rest in the meadows where peace covers me like a shield

I cast all of my dependence on you. 

I will bleat in a new tune,

A song of adoration for your steadfast love, 

The shepherd of my life.

Wordspiration 

This poem is adapted from Psalms 23, 95, 100, Isaiah 40: 11, and Ezekiel 34:31.

The Hebrew word for shepherd—ra’ah—means not only to tend and feed, but also to keep company with, like a friend. That is who God is to His people. In David’s psalms and Ezekiel’s prophecy, we see a shepherd who is compassionate, present, and fiercely protective of His flock.

He leads us beside still waters, feeds us with truth, disciplines us in love, and carries us when we’re wounded. Even when we stray, He doesn’t abandon us—He searches, restores, and surrounds us with mercy.

Ultimately, Jesus became both Shepherd and Lamb. He bore our pain and stayed silent through suffering, so that we could find rest in His fold. The best response we can give is willing obedience. To stay near. To follow closely. To trust the Shepherd’s voice—even when the path winds through valleys or leads to the mountain’s edge.

Prayer

Shepherd of my soul, thank you for leading me with care and feeding me with truth. You know how easily I wander. Yet you seek me out, tend my wounds, and guide me back to life.

Teach me to follow Your voice, to move at your pace, and to rest in your fold. Keep me from straying into danger or chasing empty cravings. I surrender my will to your wisdom.

I cast all my dependence on You, my Shepherd, my friend. Lead me, and I will follow. In Jesus’ name, amen.