“The Songs of Songs expresses the desire implanted in every human heart, to be reunited with God himself, and to know perfect and unbroken union with him. He has made us for himself, and our hearts can never know rest and perfect satisfaction until they find it in him.”—Hannah Hurnard, Hinds’ Feet on High Places.
Over two million copies of Hinds’ Feet on High Places have been sold since Hannah Hurnard wrote it in 1955 following the death of her father. It takes its title from Habukkuk 3:19, “The Lord God is my strength, and he will make my feet like hinds’ feet, and he will make me to walk upon high places.”
In the book, we see Much-Afraid embark on a journey towards the Shepherd’s High Places. Assisted by her steadfast companions, Sorrow and Suffering, she navigates perilous trials and finally reaches the lofty summits, where her vulnerabilities evolve into strengths and her apprehensions transform into unyielding faith. There, a name change awaits, signifying a profound transformation. No longer Much-Afraid, the Shepherd renames her Grace and Glory, echoing the words of the Psalms.
Hannah Hurnard’s cherished novel captures the human yearning to ascend to greater depths of love, joy, and victory under God’s guidance. My delay in discovering this gem was serendipitous, a broken Kindle leading me to my bookshelves. As it turns out, my timing was perfect; the persecution of believers is ramping up as the time of Christ’s second coming draws near. The perspective in this little book is like a balm to the soul.
This book shares insights that remind us how God sees us beyond our current state. The Shepherd is how I’ve always pictured Jesus—compassionate, tender, perceptive, and graced with a delightful sense of humor.
This uplifting Christian allegory traces the journey from salvation to spiritual maturity. Hinds’ Feet on High Places receives my wholehearted endorsement—I can’t sing its praises loudly enough. A resounding 5-star read!