Oh, to Be Nearer

Oh, to be nearer, nearer,
The feet of my Lord and King!
Oh, to enjoy His presence,
And only His love to sing!

Refrain

Only His love, only His love,
Ever my song shall be:
His wonderful love, preparing above
A robe and a crown for me.

Oh, to be nearer, nearer
Communing with Him in prayer!
Oh, to be stronger, stronger,
My burden of toil to bear!

Refrain

Oh, to be nearer, nearer
My Refuge, my Hope, my All!
Oh, to be always ready
To answer my Savior’s call!

Refrain

Oh, for a faith still brighter,
And clearer from day to day!
Oh, to be more like Jesus,
In all that I do and say!

Refrain

Author: Fanny Crosby

Year: 1914

Fanny Crosby (Frances Jane Crosby) wrote hundreds of gospel song texts in this style. The meter, refrain structure, and themes of longing for closeness to Christ are characteristic of her work. The song appears in several early 20th-century collections under her name.