What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, yet forfeit his soul?
Mark 8:36
Words: Fanny Crosby, in Joy to the World, edited by Tullius C. O’Kane, Charles C. McCabe and John Sweney (Cincinnati, Ohio: Hitchcock & Walden, 1879) number 33.
Music: Abruzzo John R. Sweney (🔊 pdf nwc).
Alternate Tune:
One day someone was talking about wealth; and he said,
If I had wealth I would be able to do just what I wish to do; and I would be able to make an appearance in the world.I replied,
Take the world, but give me Jesus.This remark led me to write the hymn having that title.Crosby, p. 178
Take the world, but give me Jesus—
All its joys are but a name;
But His love abideth ever,
Through eternal years the same.
Refrain
O the height and depth of mercy,
O the length and breadth of love.
O the fullness of redemption,
Pledge of endless life above.
Take the world, but give me Jesus,
Sweetest comfort of my soul;
With my Savior watching o’er me,
I can sing though billows roll.
Refrain
Take the world, but give me Jesus,
Let me view His constant smile;
Then throughout my pilgrim journey
Light will cheer me all the while.
Refrain
Take the world, but give me Jesus.
In His cross my trust shall be,
Till, with clearer, brighter vision,
Face to face my Lord I see.
Refrain