March 25, 2017 (Saturday)
If you choose to listen to George Beverly Shea sing “I’d Rather Have Jesus” by clicking at the bottom of this page, you will hear him tell of how he was introduced to the words of this song and how he wrote the melody that has become familiar to many of us through the years. This is a song that touches the heart and echoes the thoughts of dedicated Christians. Yes, we would rather have a personal relationship with Jesus and enjoy his presence than have anything offered by the world.
Words by Rhea F. Miller, 1922 or Prince Oscar C. A. Bernadotte, 1888 Tune by George Beverly Shea 1932 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 Refrain 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 Refrain |
Click here to hear George Beverly Shea sing this heart-rending song