Peniel Tambama - As The Deer Lyrics
Lyrics
As the deer panteth for the water
So my soul longeth after thee
You alone are my heart's desire
And I long to worship you
You alone are my strength, my shield
To you alone may my spirit yield
You alone are my heart's desire
And I long to worship you
You're my friend and you are my brother
Even though you are a king of kings
And I love you more than any other
So much more than anything
You alone are my strength, my shield
To you alone may my spirit yield
You alone are my heart's desire
And I long to worship you
Video
Celestial Chorus Vol. 2 - Hamuna Nzvimbo (ft. Peniel Tambama)
Meaning & Inspiration
Peniel Tambama’s "As The Deer," released on July 30, 2024, arrives as a profound declaration of spiritual yearning, immediately drawing its essence from one of Scripture’s most iconic expressions of divine longing. The song bypasses pretense, diving straight into the foundational human need for a connection that transcends the material world. It beautifully articulates a soul’s desperate thirst for God, mirroring the imagery of Psalm 42:1, which states, "As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, my God." This opening sets a powerful tone, inviting the worshiper into a space of vulnerable yet resolute devotion, where the pursuit of God is as vital as life-giving water itself.
The song’s core message revolves around the singular pursuit of God as the ultimate heart’s desire and the sole object of worship. It expands on this theme with declarations of absolute reliance and surrender. When the lyrics affirm "You alone are my strength, my shield," they echo timeless biblical truths found in passages like Psalm 18:2, which proclaims God as a "rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield." This imagery paints a picture of divine protection and empowerment, emphasizing that true resilience and security are found exclusively in God. The subsequent line, "To you alone may my spirit yield," speaks to a profound act of submission and trust, a giving over of one’s entire being, reminiscent of Romans 12:1, which calls for believers to "offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God." This yielding isn't a loss of self, but a realignment with divine purpose, where God's will becomes paramount.
A particularly striking and deeply moving aspect of the song comes when it bridges the gap between the divine and the deeply personal. To declare "You're my friend and you are my brother, Even though you are a king of kings" captures the breathtaking paradox of Christian faith. While acknowledging God’s supreme majesty as the "King of Kings" (Revelation 19:16), the song fearlessly embraces the intimate relationship offered by Christ, who calls his followers "friends" (John 15:15) and is not ashamed to call them "brothers and sisters" (Hebrews 2:11). This personal touch transforms abstract worship into a tangible, relational experience, making the divine accessible and intimately involved in human life. It’s a testament to the boundless love of a God who condescends to walk with humanity, not just rule over it. This profound intimacy then naturally leads to the ultimate expression of love: "And I love you more than any other, So much more than anything." This line encapsulates the spirit of the greatest commandment, to love God with all one’s heart, soul, mind, and strength (Mark 12:30), positioning Him above all earthly attachments and desires.
"As The Deer" by Peniel Tambama is more than just a song; it's a spiritual anchor, a profound prayer, and a declaration of unwavering faith. It doesn't rely on complex lyrical structures or narrative arcs, but instead on the sheer weight and timeless truth of its scriptural foundation. Its power lies in its directness and its unadulterated passion for God, encouraging all who encounter it to examine the depth of their own spiritual longing and the singular focus of their devotion. In a world brimming with distractions, this song serves as a vital reminder to seek first the Kingdom of God, finding our strength, our shield, and our deepest desire in Him alone. It’s a compelling call to worship and surrender, inviting every heart to pant after the living God.