Old Testament
Isaiah 40:11
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
He will feed his flock like a shepherd: he will gather the lambs with his arm and carry them in his bosom, and will gently lead those that are with young.
Compare translations
He shall feed his flock like a shepherd: he shall gather the lambs with his arm, and carry them in his bosom, and shall gently lead those that are with young.
What Isaiah 40:11 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Isaiah 40:11, the imagery of a shepherd caring for his flock illustrates God's tender and compassionate nature. Just as a shepherd feeds and protects his sheep, God provides for His people, ensuring they are nurtured and safe. The gathering of lambs in His arms signifies His personal care for the vulnerable and weak, while carrying them in His bosom shows deep affection and protection. The phrase 'gently lead those that are with young' highlights God's understanding and consideration for those who are burdened or in delicate situations, offering them guidance and support. This verse reassures believers that God is attentive to their needs and will lead them with love and gentleness, especially during challenging times. It emphasizes the relational aspect of God's leadership, portraying Him as a loving caregiver rather than a distant ruler, which encourages trust and reliance on His guidance.
How to apply Isaiah 40:11 to your life
This verse encourages us to trust in God's care and guidance in our lives. Just as a shepherd looks after his flock, we can rely on God to provide for our needs and lead us gently through difficult times. We should also extend this compassion to others.
Curated for this public verse page. Isaiah Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Noah's story: Noah Is Born (Genesis 5:28–32)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Noah
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725043). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nablus and Mount Gerizim, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Shechem
Where God promised the land to Abram, and where Joshua led Israel to renew the covenant.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Isaiah 40:11
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Isaiah 40:11
Related Bible verses
Key themes
At a Glance — the Book of Isaiah
- Author
- Isaiah the prophet
- Written
- Around 700 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah and the surrounding nations
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Isaiah 40:11 mean?
Isaiah 40:11 uses the imagery of a shepherd to illustrate God's caring and compassionate nature. It emphasizes how God nurtures and protects His people, especially the vulnerable, and leads them gently through life's challenges.
What is the significance of 'gather the lambs' in Isaiah 40:11?
The phrase 'gather the lambs' signifies God's personal care for the weak and vulnerable among His people. It highlights His tenderness and commitment to ensuring their safety and well-being.
How does Isaiah 40:11 portray God's leadership?
Isaiah 40:11 portrays God's leadership as nurturing and gentle, similar to a shepherd caring for his flock. This imagery reassures believers that God is attentive to their needs and guides them with love.
What does 'carry them in his bosom' mean in Isaiah 40:11?
'Carry them in his bosom' symbolizes deep affection and protection. It illustrates how God holds His people close, offering comfort and safety, especially to those who are vulnerable.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.