My Mother's Bible

“There’s a Dear and Precious Book” by M. B. Williams is a tender hymn of gratitude for the Bible, written in 1896. It expresses a believer’s deep affection for the Scriptures, honoring them as a source of comfort, wisdom, and divine truth. The song beautifully captures the reverence that Christians have for God’s Word, presenting it as a faithful companion in every season of life.

From the very first line, the hymn draws the heart toward devotion, beginning with a simple declaration of love for “the dear and precious Book.” That book, of course, is the Bible, described as “the Word of God divine.” Williams highlights that it is priceless because it tells the story of redemption and reveals the love of Jesus Christ for all mankind. The spirit of the song echoes Psalm 119, where the psalmist delights in the commandments of the Lord and finds joy in walking according to His Word.

Each verse adds depth to this theme, portraying the Bible as a lamp that guides the believer through darkness and doubt. It offers consolation in sorrow, wisdom in confusion, and assurance in every trial. The refrain captures the heart of the hymn with touching simplicity:
“There’s a dear and precious Book,
Though it’s worn and faded now,
Which recalls those happy days of long ago.”

These lines create an image of a well-used Bible, perhaps a family treasure passed down from one generation to another. The worn cover and faded pages speak not of neglect but of years of faithful reading, prayer, and meditation. It recalls the comfort of parents or grandparents who once read from its pages, reminding the singer of how the Word of God has shaped lives across time.

The melody carries a gentle, reflective tone that invites worship and quiet gratitude. It is often sung in family devotionals and church gatherings that celebrate the power and beauty of Scripture. Its message is both personal and universal, pointing believers to the unchanging truth of God’s promises.

Spiritually, “There’s a Dear and Precious Book” teaches that the Bible is not only a record of God’s past dealings but also His living message for every believer today. It comforts, corrects, and strengthens the soul. Even as the physical book may fade with age, the truth within it remains eternal and powerful. Through its pages, the voice of God still speaks, offering light to those who walk by faith.

This hymn continues to remind believers to treasure their Bibles, to read them daily, and to keep their hearts open to the guidance of God’s Word. The “dear and precious Book” is not merely a piece of history, but a living testimony of divine love and truth that never grows old.