Saviour, Like A Shepherd Lead Us

By Henry F. Lyte

Lyrics

1. Savior, like a shepherd lead us,
Much we need Thy tender care;
In Thy pleasant pastures feed us,
For our use Thy folds prepare:
Blessèd Jesus, blessèd Jesus,
Thou hast bought us, Thine we are;
Blessèd Jesus, blessèd Jesus,
Thou hast bought us, Thine we are.

2. We are Thine, do Thou befriend us,
Be the guardian of our way;
Keep Thy flock, from sin defend us,
Seek us when we go astray:
Blessèd Jesus, blessèd Jesus,
Hear, O hear us when we pray;
Blessèd Jesus, blessèd Jesus,
Hear, O hear us when we pray.

3. Thou hast promised to receive us,
Poor and sinful though we be;
Thou hast mercy to relieve us,
Grace to cleanse, and pow'r to free:
Blessèd Jesus, blessèd Jesus,
Early let us turn to Thee;
Blessèd Jesus, blessèd Jesus,
Early let us turn to Thee.

4. Early let us seek Thy favor,
Early let us do Thy will;
Blessed Lord and only Savior,
With Thy love our bosoms fill:
Blessèd Jesus, blessèd Jesus,
Thou hast loved us, love us still;
Blessèd Jesus, blessèd Jesus,
Thou hast loved us, love us still.

Bible Reference

John 10:11

About This Hymn

“Saviour, Like a Shepherd Lead Us” is one of the most beloved hymns in the English language, expressing the believer’s dependence on Christ as the Good Shepherd. While sometimes mistakenly attributed to Henry F. Lyte, the hymn is generally credited to Dorothy A. Thrupp, first appearing in her collection Hymns for the Young in 1836. It was intended for children’s worship but quickly became cherished by congregations of all ages because of its tender and devotional tone.

The text draws directly from the imagery of Scripture, particularly John 10 and Psalm 23. Each stanza is a prayer for Christ’s guidance, care, and protection, acknowledging Him as both Savior and Shepherd. The hymn petitions the Lord to bless His people, defend them from sin, and prepare them for eternity. Its language is simple yet profound, reflecting the heart-cry of every believer who longs to be led by Christ through the challenges of life and into the safety of His eternal fold.

Over the years, “Saviour, Like a Shepherd Lead Us” has become a staple in Christian worship. Its gentle prayerfulness has made it especially comforting in times of sorrow, as well as deeply meaningful in regular congregational singing. Paired with William B. Bradbury’s music, the hymn continues to invite worshippers into a deeper trust in Christ’s leading. Though originally written for the young, its universal message reminds all believers of their constant need for the Shepherd’s tender care.