Lyrics
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 land,
I'd rather be led by His nail-pierced hand:
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 world-wide fame,
I'd rather be true to His holy Name
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.
He's fairer than lilies of rarest bloom,
He's sweeter than honey from out of the comb;
He's all that my hungering spirit needs
I'd rather have Jesus and let Him lead
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.
Song History & Meaning
Composer / Hymnodist: Rhea F. Miller
In a world that constantly urges us to chase wealth, recognition, and status, "I'd Rather Have Jesus" reanchors our hearts in what truly matters. The treasures of this life quickly fade, but the presence and love of Christ offer a depth and peace that nothing else can match. When we choose to follow His nail-pierced hands, we discover that knowing Him isn't a sacrifice, but our greatest joy. Today, let this song invite you to surrender your ambitions and find your ultimate treasure in Jesus alone.
📖 Related Scripture Passages:
- Matthew 6:33: “But seek first God’s Kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”
- Philippians 3:8: “Yes, most certainly, and I count all things to be loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus, my Lord, for whom I suffered the loss of all things, and count them nothing but refuse, that I may gain Christ”
- Mark 8:36: “For what does it profit a man, to gain the whole world, and forfeit his life?”