Verse 1
Got a harp in one hand and a sling in the other
For the battles I 'fight 'I fight with 'these
Got a flock on the hill, 'but the Lord is my Shepherd
And I have all I need
Chorus
My life will tell the story of Your faithfulness
The highs, the lows, the fields, the thrones, how good You've been
Look how far we've come from watching sheep under the stars
After all this time I'm still after Your heart, I'm still after Your heart
After Your heart
Verse 2
Got a song in the storm, no fear in the valley
For I know the Lord will lead me through
Got a crown on my head and the keys to the kingdom
But I still bow to You
Oh, I still bow to You
Chorus
My life will tell the story of Your faithfulness
The highs, the lows, the fields, the thrones, how good You've been
Look how far we've come from watching sheep under the stars
After all this time I'm still after Your heart, I'm still after Your heart
After Your heart
Bridge
Surely Your goodness, surely Your grace will follow me all my days
Will follow me all my days
Surely Your mercy, surely Your name will follow me all my days
Follow me all my days
Chorus
My life will tell the story of Your faithfulness
The highs, the lows, the fields, the thrones, how good You've been
Oh, look how far we've come from watching sheep under the stars
After all this time I'm still after Your heart
Outro
Look how far we've come from watching sheep under the stars
And after all this time I'm still after Your heart, I'm still after Your heart
After Your heart
After Your Heart
After Your Heart Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration
This song by Chris Tomlin reflects on a life journey marked by both humble beginnings and significant accomplishments, seen through the lens of faith. It uses vivid imagery, notably drawing parallels to the biblical figure of David, who transitioned from a shepherd boy skilled with a harp and sling to a king. The lyrics encapsulate the idea that regardless of life's circumstances or achievements, the ultimate goal remains the unwavering pursuit of God's heart and His purposes.
The chorus serves as the central message, declaring that a life lived in relationship with God will inherently testify to His faithfulness. It acknowledges the entirety of the journey, encompassing the "highs, the lows, the fields, the thrones," signifying varied experiences from obscurity to prominence. Despite the distance traveled and the changes in life's landscape, the consistent theme is the enduring desire to remain aligned with God's heart.
Verse 2 expands on this theme by incorporating the presence of God through difficult times ("song in the storm," "no fear in the valley") and contrasting worldly positions of power ("crown," "keys to the kingdom") with a posture of surrender and humility before God ("I still bow to You"). The bridge reinforces the confidence in God's consistent presence and provision, affirming that His goodness, grace, mercy, and name follow the believer throughout their days.
The lyrical journey from watching sheep to holding a crown strongly echoes the story of David, often described as a man after God's own heart (Acts 13:22). The imagery of the harp and sling recalls his youth (1 Samuel 16:23, 1 Samuel 17:50). The theme of the Lord as shepherd leading through valleys reflects Psalm 23. The confidence in God's goodness, grace, and mercy following throughout life mirrors Psalm 23:6. The song distills these biblical concepts into a personal anthem of devotion and life testimony.
The song video for "After Your Heart" was released on March 28, 2025.
