Our Shepherd’s Favor

“The sheep listen to his voice, and he calls his own sheep by name […] I am the good shepherd; the good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep […] I know My own, and My own know Me.”—John 10:3, 11, 14 NASB

Dorothy Thrupp was born in England on this day in June 1779. Although the composer of many hymns, she normally used pseudonyms, letting her words speak for themselves. Demonstrating this concern, when she edited Hymns for the Young, all the music was given anonymously.

From the testimony of her hymns, we know that she realized how much she needed Jesus and what a personal relationship with Him meant to her.

In 1836, she wrote words that became a hymn that expressed the blessing it was that Jesus was her Savior and her shepherd. Called “Savior, Like a Shepherd Lead Us,” this hymn revels in the comfort of knowing the “tender care” Jesus provides. He will feed us in His “pleasant pastures” and has prepared blessings for us.

Through Jesus, we can experience favor. We can turn to Him, even though we are “poor and sinful.” Because of His mercy, He will “relieve us.” Through His grace, we can be cleansed and free.

He is “the guardian of our way.” He will keep and defend us and “seek us when we go astray.” How wonderful to know we belong to Him. We can be confident He hears us when we pray. “Blessèd Jesus,” she prayed, “Thou hast loved us, love us still.”

Remember that Jesus is your Shepherd. He is watching over you to protect and bless and grant you His favor.

Reflection Question: Write a prayer thanking Jesus for guiding you through life.