One by one Jesse's sons
Stood before the prophet
Their father knew a king
Would soon be found
And each one passed
Except the last
No one thought to call him
Surely he would never
Wear a crown
Chorus:
But when others see a shepherd boy
God may see a king
Even though your life seems filled
With ordinary things
In just a moment He can touch you
And everything will change
When others see a shepherd boy
God may see a king
One by one problems come
And dreams get shattered
And sometimes it's hard
To understand
But things like chance
And circumstance
They don't really matter
Our Father holds tomorrow
In His hands
Chorus
Well it wasn't the oldest
It wasn't the strongest
Chosen on that day
And yet the giants fell
And nations trembled
When they stood in his way
Chorus
Shepherd Boy Video
Shepherd Boy Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration
The song "Shepherd Boy" by Ray Boltz carries a powerful message about God's perspective on potential and greatness, drawing upon the biblical story of David's anointment as king, found in 1 Samuel 16. This song intricately weaves the narrative of David, a young shepherd boy who was chosen by God to be the king of Israel, into a broader theme of divine selection and purpose that transcends human judgment and expectation.
### Verse 1: The Anointment of David
The opening verse of the song references the prophet Samuel's visit to Jesse's house in Bethlehem, as instructed by God, to anoint one of Jesse's sons as the next king of Israel. As Jesse's sons are presented before Samuel, each one is passed over in favor of David, the youngest, who was not even considered initially and was out tending to the sheep. This scene highlights how God's choices are often unexpected and not based on human standards of strength or appearance.
**Biblical Reference**: 1 Samuel 16:6-13, especially verse 7, "But the Lord said to Samuel, 'Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.'"
### Chorus: God's Perspective
The chorus of "Shepherd Boy" emphasizes the difference between human and divine perspectives. While people may see a shepherd boy, God sees a king. This reflects the biblical principle that God sees and values our potential, our heart, and what we can become through Him, not just what we currently are or seem to be.
### Verse 2: Challenges and Divine Providence
The second verse speaks to the trials and uncertainties life presents, reminding listeners that circumstances and appearances do not limit God's plan. This verse reassures that God is in control, holding our futures in His hands, a comforting thought that aligns with the biblical narrative of God's sovereignty.
**Biblical Reference**: Jeremiah 29:11, "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."
### Bridge: David's Victory Over Goliath
The bridge of the song alludes to David's victory over Goliath, highlighting how God's choice, David, though not the strongest or the oldest, defeated the giant and led Israel to victory. This part of the song celebrates God's power to use those who seem unlikely to achieve great things for His glory.
**Biblical Reference**: 1 Samuel 17, the entire chapter recounts David's faith, courage, and victory over Goliath, showcasing how God's strength is made perfect in weakness.
### Conclusion
"Shepherd Boy" by Ray Boltz is a beautiful reminder of God's unconventional choices and His ability to see beyond our limitations to what we can become in Him. Through the story of David, the song encourages listeners to trust in God's plan for their lives, knowing that He sees potential where others may not and that He is capable of transforming the ordinary into the extraordinary.
