When I was a teenager we had a record of songs sung by George Beverly Shea. Amazing voice. That was where I first heard this song – I’d Rather Have Jesus. The words and tune have stayed with me all my life. What an amazing message.

To have Jesus is to have everything. I really can’t say anything more about this song. Every line is so meaningful.

Apparently the man who wrote this song lived this song:

Although American hymnals show Rhea Miller as the author of this song, Swedish sources attribute the original to Prince Oscar. In 1888 he relinquished his royal title and right to succession in order to marry a commoner who had influenced his religious beliefs. Afterward he was active in Christian service.

Found at: http://library.timelesstruths.org/music/Id_Rather_Have_Jesus/

I’d rather have Jesus than silver or gold;
I’d rather be His than have riches untold;
I’d rather have Jesus than houses or lands;
I’d rather be led by His nail-pierced hand.

Refrain:
Than to be the king of a vast domain
Or be held in sin’s dread sway;
I’d rather have Jesus than anything
This world affords today.

I’d rather have Jesus than men’s applause;
I’d rather be faithful to His dear cause;
I’d rather have Jesus than worldwide fame;
I’d rather be true to His holy name.

He’s fairer than lilies of rarest bloom;
He’s sweeter than honey from out the comb;
He’s all that my hungering spirit needs;
I’d rather have Jesus and let Him lead.