CXXIII. The Goodness of GOD acknowledged in giving Pastors after his own Heart.

SHEPHERD of Israel, Thou dost keep
With constant Care thy humble Sheep;
By thee inferior Pastors rise
To feed our Souls, and bless our Eyes.

To all thy Churches such impart,
Modell'd by thine own gracious Heart;
Whose Courage Watchfulness and Love
Men may attest, and GOD approve.

Fed by their active tender Care,
Healthful may all thy Sheep appear,
And, by their fair Example led,
The Way to Zion's Pastures tread.

Here hast thou list'ned to our Vows,
And scatter'd Blessings on thy House;
Thy Saints are succour'd, and no more
As Sheep without a Guide deplore.

Compleatly heal each former Stroke,
And bless the Shepherd, and the Flock;
Confirm the Hopes thy Mercies raise,
And own this Tribute of our Praise.