The year this poem was written was the first year I conquered the depression in my life (and have not been overwhelmed with it since). I remember meditating upon Psalm 23 and thinking it was a wonderful testimony of David's trust in the Lord his God. I wanted that same testimony to be mine (not just to be able to claim the promises contained herein, but also to have others look at my walk with the Lord Jesus Christ, and say that this is my testimony too). This poem came out of those musings.
The Valley Of Faith
(Based on Psalm 23)
The Lord is my Shepherd.
He’s proven faithful throughout the years.
Though I walk through death’s dark valley,
His grace calmly soothes all my fears.
As I closely follow His leading,
He provides for my every need.
Oh, the waters are so peaceful,
And the pastures are rich indeed!
When I get weary and heavy laden,
When the labour of love takes its toll,
I go to the Shepherd for refreshing,
And He gently restores my soul.
As I lean upon the Shepherd,
He guides me in the path that's right.
When the shadows seem so gloomy,
The Lord is my Lamp and my Light.
The Shepherd's name is so precious;
Like ointment poured forth to me.
Jesus' name means He's the "Saviour",
And He gives life abundantly.
Yea, though I walk through this valley,
No sudden fears will bar my way.
His rod and staff are there to guide me,
And bring me back whenever I stray.
Though my enemies may surround me,
My Lord, omnipotent, still provides,
And though evil forces may assail me,
Within, God's perfect peace still abides.
Anointed with God's Spirit,
And overflowing with His love,
My cup indeed is running over
With showers of blessing from above.
Amazed with His goodness and mercy,
By His grace, in this pasture, I roam.
How I rejoice to see that day
When the Good Shepherd leads me home.
October 12th, 2001
Jerry Bouey
I Am the Good Shepherd:
the Good Shepherd giveth His life for the sheep.
I Am the Good Shepherd, and know My sheep,
and am known of Mine.
My sheep hear My voice, and I know them,
and they follow Me:
And I give unto them eternal life;
and they shall never perish,
neither shall any man pluck them out of My hand.
John 10:11, 14, 27-28
(Based on Psalm 23)
The Lord is my Shepherd.
He’s proven faithful throughout the years.
Though I walk through death’s dark valley,
His grace calmly soothes all my fears.
As I closely follow His leading,
He provides for my every need.
Oh, the waters are so peaceful,
And the pastures are rich indeed!
When I get weary and heavy laden,
When the labour of love takes its toll,
I go to the Shepherd for refreshing,
And He gently restores my soul.
As I lean upon the Shepherd,
He guides me in the path that's right.
When the shadows seem so gloomy,
The Lord is my Lamp and my Light.
The Shepherd's name is so precious;
Like ointment poured forth to me.
Jesus' name means He's the "Saviour",
And He gives life abundantly.
Yea, though I walk through this valley,
No sudden fears will bar my way.
His rod and staff are there to guide me,
And bring me back whenever I stray.
Though my enemies may surround me,
My Lord, omnipotent, still provides,
And though evil forces may assail me,
Within, God's perfect peace still abides.
Anointed with God's Spirit,
And overflowing with His love,
My cup indeed is running over
With showers of blessing from above.
Amazed with His goodness and mercy,
By His grace, in this pasture, I roam.
How I rejoice to see that day
When the Good Shepherd leads me home.
October 12th, 2001
Jerry Bouey
I Am the Good Shepherd:
the Good Shepherd giveth His life for the sheep.
I Am the Good Shepherd, and know My sheep,
and am known of Mine.
My sheep hear My voice, and I know them,
and they follow Me:
And I give unto them eternal life;
and they shall never perish,
neither shall any man pluck them out of My hand.
John 10:11, 14, 27-28
