During the Great Depression, George Beverly Shea was offered a career in popular music. But an inner voice whispered a greater purpose. The answer came in a poem Shea later set to music, I’d Rather Have Jesus. As we face one of the most difficult economic challenges since the Depression, this hymn reminds us that choosing Christ “rather … than silver or gold” is the most reliable investment advice we will ever find. As markets fluctuate, Christ is a solid rock.
Another line sings of favoring “His dear cause” over worldliness. Just as Shea has stayed faithful to glorify God in song around the globe, Southern Baptists have long been faithful to give time and money to help accomplish the worldwide missionary task.
Economic uncertainty affects your families and your church. It also affects every missionary family on the field. Their work cannot go forward without your continued sacrificial giving.
May God bless you in your ever-faithful obedience to our Great Commission task.
Jerry Rankin, president
International Mission Board
Immanuel Southern Baptist Church 