Lyrics
As the deer panteth for the water
So my soul longeth after thee
You alone are my hearts desire
And I long to worship thee
Chorus
You alone are my strength my shield
To You alone may my spirit yield
You alone are my hearts desire
And I long to worship thee
You're my friend and You are my brother,
Even though you are a king.
I love you more thank any other,
So much more than anything.
I want You more than gold or silver,
Only You can satisfy.
You alone are the real joy Giver,
And the apple of my eye.
Video
Meaning & Inspiration
“As the Deer” gives worship the language of thirst, desire, and single-minded devotion. Its opening image is drawn directly from the psalmist’s longing for God as a deer longs for flowing water. From that image, the song moves into a personal confession: God alone is strength, protection, and the only source of lasting satisfaction.
The verses describe relationship with God through several close images: friend, brother, king, shield, and joy-giver. Psalm 42:1-2 clearly supports the central metaphor, while Psalm 73:25-26 parallels the claim that God is greater than any earthly treasure. The repeated refrain keeps the focus on surrendered worship, portraying devotion not as a passing emotion but as the soul’s steady direction toward God. Longing is answered not by possessions, but by divine presence.
Related Scripture
- Psalm 42:1-2 The psalmist compares longing for God to a deer’s thirst for flowing water.
- Psalm 73:25-26 The psalmist describes God as the soul’s desire and lasting strength.