"The King of Love My Shepherd Is"

The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. Psalm 23:1 (NKJV)

On some church calendars, Psalm 23 is read as part of today's liturgy on this
fourth Sunday of Easter. I love this Psalm for its power, its truth, its comfort, and its ability to minister to believers and unbelievers alike.

This hymn, based upon the 23rd Psalm, was written by Henry W. Baker (1821-1877). He was an English musician and the editor of the best-selling Hymns, Ancient and Modern, published from 1860 to 1877.

Go here to hear the music which is based upon an old Irish melody. There is also an alternate tune at this link.

The King of Love My Shepherd Is

The King of love my Shepherd is,
Whose goodness faileth never,
I nothing lack if I am His
And He is mine forever.

Where streams of living water flow
My ransomed soul He leadeth,
And where the verdant pastures grow,
With food celestial feedeth.

Perverse and foolish oft I strayed,
But yet in love He sought me,
And on His shoulder gently laid,
And home, rejoicing, brought me.

In death’s dark vale I fear no ill
With Thee, dear Lord, beside me;
Thy rod and staff my comfort still,
Thy cross before to guide me.

Thou spread’st a table in my sight;
Thy unction grace bestoweth;
And O what transport of delight
From Thy pure chalice floweth!

And so through all the length of days
Thy goodness faileth never;
Good Shepherd, may I sing Thy praise
Within Thy house forever.