About a year ago, a friend took me out for coffee and asked what he could do to help me when I’m struggling with faith, sexuality, or singleness. It was one of those moments you hope for — a friend who not only prays for you but also asks, “What more can I do?”
I fumbled over a few words (between gulps of white mocha) but couldn’t quite articulate what it is I really need during times of struggle. I’m not sure anyone had ever asked so directly, so genuinely. Whatever the reason, I was a bumbling mess in that moment, so I reached out to him a couple days later with a follow-up text:
“You asked how you can be a better support to me. Of course you already are, but I’ve been thinking about it more. Because I didn’t answer very well the first time. I think the best thing people can do is to remind me that Jesus is worth it. Tell me out loud, ‘Jesus is worth it.’ Because we so often forget — at least, I do. But the catch is, people have to really believe that themselves for it to be any real encouragement to me. Does that make sense? We don’t persevere in the faith because we like Christian values, or because we want to please our family, or even because we want to go to heaven. But because, in the end, we get to know and love and BE WITH Jesus! If he’s not worth it (or, more accurately, if we don’t remember that he’s worth it), then we have every reason to give up. So… That’s one way. Hugs and coffee dates and [your wife’s] amazing lasagna are a few of the other ways.”
My friend took his question — and my answer — seriously. I know because, since then, he often texts me with that precious reminder: Jesus is worth it. The phrase has even inspired its own hashtag. He’s always quick to respond with encouragement when I tell him, “It’s a #JIWI kind of night.”
As a single person committed to celibacy, but living in a world where sex reigns supreme, there are days when my mission to be happy in Christ comes to a screeching halt. I have fears about the future. Setbacks when I’m striving for holiness. Doubts about how long I can put up a good fight when the odds feel stacked against me.
During those times, I need someone to sit beside me — maybe even hold my hand — and tell me the old redemption story. Tell me about the God who became a man, walked among us, and built his kingdom. Tell me the truth about his death and resurrection, which I reenacted through baptism when I was a boy. Tell me he loves me, forgives me, walks with me, and is working all things for my good. Tell me you’re my brother or sister and you’re persevering with me, because that’s what saints do. Tell me Jesus is coming back and he’s making all things new — even now, as we sit here hand in hand.
On those nights when I lose focus and can’t seem to find joy in Christ, tell me what I already know: tell me Jesus is worth it.
Cannot tell you the encouragement this post is to me. Thank you friend, thank you.
This is your best post so far. Thank you for being so real and open. I pray your honest writing helps others.
Thanks Brian for sharing this I think it is something we all need to hear!
That was beautiful. Thank you for the reminder.
You’re amazing!!
Great post! I often ask myself, if everything I had was gone, possessions, family, friends, and all I had was Jesus would that be enough? I want to say emphatically “yes”! But do I live my life like I believe that? When I face trials and feel like giving up I want to remember ” Jesus is worth it!”
I feel like my struggles are so trivial in light of what others are challenged with, but we all need this continual reminder no matter what the trial. Thanks for this post.
Thank you for your faith! It is inspiring.
Rev 22:20. He who testifies to these things says, “Surely I am coming quickly.”
Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus!
Brian, I was thinking how all believers could be encouraging one another with this truth as each of us has that ‘thing’ that wants to capture us instead of the truth that indeed – “JIWI”.
Love you, Brother. 🙂
Oh how blessed I am to call you my friend! You are such an encouragement to me. I love you my friend & thankful the Lord placed you in my life to remind me Jesus is worth it all!
Beautiful post!
Love this reminder. I need to be reminded daily that Jesus is worth the struggle and He is enough. Love you!!