“I’d Rather Have Jesus” - Rhea Miller

1894–1966

Martin Ross was a drunk who had no interest in the Christian faith, despite the prayers of his devoted wife, Bertha. And then, suddenly, everything changed. He gave in to Jesus, and he didn’t do it halfway. He gave up alcohol and went into the ministry. Ever after, as he preached at the Baptist church in Brooktondale, New York, he would tell his story. Looking back on the change in his life, he would say that he’d rather have Jesus than anything the world offered.

His daughter was listening. And one day, when she was twenty-eight, Rhea Ross Miller was walking in the fields near home, reflecting on her father’s story, when a song began to form in her mind and soul: “I’d Rather Have Jesus.” The lyrics describe the various lures of the world—riches, power, fame, etc.—and announce the decision to follow Jesus instead.

A decade later, these lyrics came to the attention of a young singer named George Beverly Shea, who put them to his own music. It would be another decade or so before he would start working with Billy Graham. As the main soloist at Billy Graham’s evangelistic services, George Beverly Shea often performed this song, and it has inspired millions to examine their own priorities.

Meanwhile, Rhea Miller was a pastor’s wife, using her musical gifts in the church. By the way, she approved of George’s new tune and helped him publish it. She didn’t need any fame from this song; she preferred to keep serving Jesus quietly. And as her husband became a superintendent in their denomination, overseeing other pastors, Rhea found a new way to serve. She offered piano lessons to the families of these pastors, free of charge.

There is a vast network of people who would rather have Jesus—and serve Jesus—than to enjoy any kind of worldly success. They’re pastors, missionaries, and social workers instead of CEOs. They’re worship leaders instead of Hollywood stars. This isn’t to say that “successful” people can’t serve Jesus. Of course they can. But some callings practically ensure a lack of worldly success. Rhea Miller decided to reward some of these folks by donating her services. What could you do to support those who would “rather have Jesus”?

Everything else is worthless when compared with the infinite value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord.

Philippians 3:8