I'd Rather Have Jesus Than Silver or Gold

I’d Rather Have Jesus is a powerful testimony hymn expressing the believer’s desire for Christ above all worldly gain. The lyrics were written by Rhea F. Miller in 1922, and the music was composed by George Beverly Shea, whose life and ministry would come to be closely associated with this song. The hymn stands as a declaration of devotion, contrasting the fleeting pleasures of material wealth and fame with the eternal worth of a life surrendered to Jesus.

The origin of the hymn is deeply personal. George Beverly Shea was a young man struggling with life decisions, including the temptation of a lucrative career in secular music. One day, his mother left Rhea Miller’s poem on the family piano. As Shea read the words, he was moved to compose a melody and began singing them aloud. That moment became a turning point in his spiritual life. He chose ministry over fame, and the hymn became his signature song during his long service with evangelist Billy Graham.

The hymn opens with the line, “I’d rather have Jesus than silver or gold,” setting the theme of spiritual treasure above earthly riches. It continues with heartfelt comparisons—Christ is preferred over houses, lands, men’s applause, and worldly acclaim. Each stanza underscores the surpassing beauty of knowing Christ: “I’d rather be His than have riches untold... I’d rather have Jesus than anything this world affords today.”

This contrast between worldly success and spiritual surrender is rooted in the teachings of the Apostle Paul. In Philippians 3:8, Paul writes of counting all his worldly achievements as loss for the sake of gaining Christ. The hymn reflects that same mindset, affirming that Christ is more desirable than anything the world can offer.

The second stanza speaks of moral integrity and humility, saying, “I’d rather have Jesus than men’s applause, I’d rather be faithful to His dear cause.” It reminds believers that loyalty to Christ may come at the cost of worldly recognition, but it brings eternal reward. The hymn also elevates Jesus not only in His worth but in His character: “He’s fairer than lilies... sweeter than honey... He’s all that my hungering spirit needs.” These comparisons highlight both the beauty and sufficiency of Christ.

Musically, the hymn is simple yet moving. Shea’s melody supports the meditative tone of the lyrics, making it accessible and deeply personal for worship. Over the decades, I’d Rather Have Jesus has been sung in churches, crusades, and personal devotions, often as a song of rededication and consecration.

Ultimately, the hymn calls believers to examine where their treasure truly lies. Its enduring message is one of singular devotion: choosing Christ over all, not reluctantly but joyfully, knowing that nothing in the world compares to His surpassing worth.