a man being baptized - following Jesus
The Gift of God Is Eternal Life

Following Jesus: You May Lose Much, But Never Your Soul

IG

IK Gibson

Founder & Visionary

“Following Jesus” is a journey filled with blessings, trials, sacrifices, and the ultimate promise of salvation. Although following Jesus may lead to the loss of earthly gains—status, wealth, even relationships—the value it brings to the soul is unparalleled. Jesus Himself posed a powerful question in Matthew 16:26, “What good will it be for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul?” These words highlight the eternal significance of following Jesus, suggesting that while worldly pursuits may bring temporary joy, they hold no weight when compared to the eternal security of one’s soul.

The Cost of Following Jesus

Following Jesus is not for the faint-hearted. It often comes with a cost, which Jesus was transparent about in His teachings. In Luke 14:27, He said, “And whoever does not carry their cross and follow me cannot be my disciple.” This call to discipleship involves denying oneself and bearing the burdens that may arise along the way. For some, the cost may be giving up personal ambitions, letting go of toxic relationships, or even facing persecution for their beliefs. However, these sacrifices are not meant to cause despair but to free believers from the chains of earthly desires, refocusing their lives on heavenly goals.

As we examine the lives of early disciples, we see this cost vividly. Peter, James, John, and others left their fishing nets and family businesses. They understood that following Jesus meant embracing a higher calling. Even today, many who choose to follow Jesus may find themselves in situations where they must leave behind comfort, familiarity, or even loved ones. Yet, this cost pales in comparison to the promise of a fulfilled soul, grounded in the eternal hope Jesus provides.

Why Losing Earthly Gains Matters Less

In a world driven by materialism, letting go of earthly pursuits can seem counterintuitive. However, Jesus teaches that the treasures of this world are fleeting. In Matthew 6:19-21, He warns, “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven…” Following Jesus invites believers to re-evaluate what they deem valuable. Worldly possessions—while potentially useful—cannot provide the same lasting satisfaction as spiritual wealth.

The notion of worldly loss is also softened by the biblical reminder that earthly gains are temporary. Even the wealthiest people will one day leave behind their fortunes. For followers of Jesus, the focus shifts from accumulating wealth to building a legacy of faith, kindness, and obedience. This shift in perspective doesn’t mean that believers are against wealth but that they no longer view it as the ultimate goal. For what is truly priceless, they look to the soul and the promise of eternity with Jesus.

Furthermore, the apostle Paul expressed a similar sentiment in Philippians 3:7-8, where he writes, “But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord.” Here, Paul shows that even the most impressive achievements are trivial compared to the joy of knowing Jesus. True value lies not in what one can accumulate, but in a relationship with the Savior.

Strengthening Faith Amidst Challenges

Following Jesus doesn’t shield believers from hardship; in fact, trials often increase as a means of refining their faith. James 1:2-4 encourages believers by saying, “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.” Trials, though painful, serve to strengthen faith and deepen dependence on God. As followers of Jesus grow through these experiences, they come to understand that loss often leads to greater spiritual gain.

The story of Job is a powerful example of faith amidst loss. Job lost his family, wealth, and health, yet he remained steadfast in his belief. His story illustrates that while following God may not always bring material wealth, it fosters an unshakeable foundation. Jesus Himself endured hardship, and by walking closely with Him, believers gain resilience and a heavenly perspective that redefines what truly matters.

During challenges, prayer and fellowship with other believers become essential. The body of Christ serves as a support system, lifting each other up in times of struggle. Through fellowship and the encouragement found in Scripture, believers learn to see beyond temporary suffering and focus on eternal promises. Romans 5:3-5 reminds us that “suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.” In following Jesus, hardships become an avenue for developing a Christ-like character, grounding one’s soul in eternal hope.

The Promise of Eternal Life

One of the most reassuring promises for those who choose to follow Jesus is eternal life. In John 10:27-28, Jesus promises, “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand.” This guarantee of eternal life offers profound comfort to believers, especially in moments of loss or sacrifice.

Following Jesus may require letting go of earthly attachments, but it leads to a destination where the soul finds everlasting peace and joy.

Eternal life is not just a future promise but a present reality. Jesus assures His followers that even while they face trials and losses in this world, their souls are safeguarded by His love. This promise gives followers the courage to endure difficult situations, knowing their souls are secure. Jesus’s words in Matthew 19:29 also bring reassurance: “And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or wife or children or fields for my sake will receive a hundred times as much and will inherit eternal life.”

The promise of eternal life provides a perspective that transcends temporary loss. Instead of clinging to what they can see and touch, believers are encouraged to fix their eyes on the eternal promises of God. This view enables them to face life’s challenges with peace, knowing that their ultimate reward lies beyond this world.

Eternal Perspective of Following Jesus

In following Jesus, believers may experience significant losses—of relationships, material goods, or social acceptance. Yet, as Matthew 16:26 reminds us, the soul’s value far exceeds any earthly possession. The journey of following Jesus is not always easy, but it is deeply rewarding, offering an eternal perspective that changes how believers approach life and loss. As Paul eloquently puts it in Romans 8:18, “I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.”

Choosing to follow Jesus is a commitment to prioritize one’s soul above all else. In doing so, believers find a peace that transcends understanding, a strength that defies circumstances, and a promise of eternal life that reassures their hearts. Although the cost may seem high, the reward is far greater—securing the soul in the love and presence of Jesus, for now and forever.


I remember back in high school, one of the boys, known for flaunting his sense of superiority, once asked me mockingly, ‘When will you drop that Bible?’ referring to the Bible I carried everywhere. At the time, his question stung, a reminder of the ridicule I often faced for following Jesus. Years later, after graduating college, I learned that this same individual had encountered serious issues with the authorities due to his life choices.

Reflecting on this, I see how following Jesus—despite the challenges and derision—deepened my faith and gave me unwavering confidence in my beliefs. This journey has shown me that staying true to my values, even in the face of criticism, has brought me a sense of peace and stability that remains, no matter what life throws my way.

I encourage everyone reading this post to remember that following Jesus may not always be easy, but the rewards of obedience far outweigh the challenges we may face. Through our faith and trust in Him, we find peace, joy, and true fulfillment, knowing we are walking in alignment with His will. When we choose to follow Jesus wholeheartedly, we gain not only a deeper purpose but also the assurance that we are building our lives on a foundation that will endure forever.

Share this post

Related Posts

Following Jesus: You May Lose Much, But Never Your Soul | God Liberation Cathedral | God Liberation Cathedral