Take the World but Give Me Jesus

Jonathan Anderson • September 22, 2025

“Take the World but Give Me Jesus” is a hymn of deep surrender. It draws a clear line between what the world offers and what Christ gives — and makes the choice without hesitation. This hymn doesn’t reject joy or beauty, but it sees them as incomplete without Jesus. It’s about setting our hearts on something that lasts forever.

The Story Behind the Hymn

This hymn was written by Fanny J. Crosby, one of the most prolific hymn writers in Christian history. Born blind, she saw more clearly than many with sight — especially when it came to what truly mattered. Her desire to know Christ more deeply is felt in every word of this hymn.


The tune was written by Sweney W. Howard, and the music has a steady, heartfelt flow that gently carries Crosby’s words. It became a favorite among believers who sought to fix their eyes on eternity, especially in times of temptation or hardship.


What Makes It Powerful

What gives this hymn its strength is the contrast. It’s not just about choosing Jesus — it’s about choosing Him over everything else. It speaks to the soul that realizes the world can’t satisfy, and that nothing compares to the love of Christ.


A verse that reflects the heart of this hymn is Philippians 3:8 (NIV):

I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord…

This hymn helps us remember that in every gain or loss, Jesus is enough.


My Violin Cover

When I arranged “Take the World but Give Me Jesus” for violin, I wanted to highlight the hymn’s gentle resolve. It’s not a boastful song — it’s a quiet declaration of where true treasure is found. I kept the phrasing calm and sincere, with just enough emotion to match the surrender behind the lyrics.


With Violin Hymns, my goal is to let the melody support the message — and this one speaks clearly through humble devotion.



Listen and Reflect

The video is below. As you listen, let the words of this hymn settle in your heart. Think about what you’re holding on to — and whether Jesus truly has your full affection. Take the world, but give me Jesus — in His cross my trust shall be.

Lyrics


Take the world but give me Jesus,

He who died, He lov’d me so;

Gladly now I yield earth’s treasures,

Jesus only would I know.


Take the world but give me Jesus,

That dear Friend who loves me so;

All the world I leave, to follow

Jesus thro’ this vale below.


Now I hail my gracious Savior,

Living Head and glorious King;

And for His redemptive favor,

All my gifts and pow’rs I bring. 


Take the world but give me Jesus,

And my heart shall be His throne;

King of kings, and Lord forever,

He shall rule, and He alone.

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