Josh Wilson is a celebrated Christian artist known for blending poignant storytelling with musical brilliance. Over the years, he has captivated audiences with heartfelt hits like “Before the Morning,” “I Refuse,”“Carry Me,” and “Borrow (One Day at a Time).” Wilson has become one of the finest songwriters in Christian music today with his unique ability to explore profound spiritual truths through relatable and imaginative lyrics.
I was thrilled to hear his latest single, “It Gets Better,” from his newest studio album, Mental Help. The album showcases Wilson’s talent for weaving themes of faith, struggle, and hope into deeply personal and universally resonant songs. It’s already a contender for my top 10 albums of 2024, setting his place as a masterful artist who brings listeners closer to God through his music.
Each track on Mental Help invites listeners into Wilson’s life with authenticity and vulnerability. Through the celebratory energy of “I Surrender All” and the tender anthem “Jesus and Therapy,” Wilson presents a unique blend of artistry and truth. This album uplifts and inspires reflection, proving why Josh Wilson remains a trusted voice in contemporary Christian music. I spoke with him about the latter track and can’t wait to share the conversation with you.
Please tell me the personal story behind this song.
“Jesus and Therapy” is about my struggles with anxiety, depression, and addiction. The song sings about how I found hope in Jesus and therapy. I’ve struggled with anxiety and panic attacks for many years, and more recently with depression. I self-medicated my anxiety with alcohol for years and became addicted. I tried to quit on my own, but it didn't work until I told God and a trusted friend.
I saw an addiction counselor two to three times a week for my first year of sobriety. I also used online therapy during the COVID lockdowns and found a counselor in my city. Jesus reminded me that the pain is not permanent and that it's going to get better.
Which Bible verses connect to the message of the song?
Philippians 4:6-7(NIV): "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus."
James 5:16(NASB): "Therefore, confess your sins to one another, and pray for one another so that you A prayer of a righteous person, when it is brought about, can accomplish much.”
2 Corinthians 12:9(NKJV): "And He said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore, most gladly, I will rather boast in my infirmities that the power of Christ may rest upon me."
Matthew 11:28-30(MSG): "Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to Me. Get away with Me, and you'll recover your life. I'll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with Me and work with Me--watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won't lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with Me, and you'll learn to live freely and lightly."
Psalm 34:18(NIV): “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
What is the takeaway message?
Psalm 34:18 means the world to me because our hearts are often broken. It doesn’t mean God has abandoned us because we’re struggling. It’s the opposite. God is even more present in our difficult moments.
David, who wrote most of the Psalms, was “a man after God’s own heart,” and yet he still struggled with anxiety, sorrow, and maybe even depression. So, when we face those things, we’re in good company and not alone. Prayer, church, community, therapy, medication, exercise, and healthy eating have been essential for me. God has used these elements together to keep me on solid ground. While it hasn’t always been easy, it is getting easier.
Lyrics
Jesus and therapy Jesus and therapy The last few years for me have been Jesus and therapy I'm not afraid to say that I am not okay I need help I'm so tired of keeping secrets I need someone else to hear this I need help 'Cause I've tried, and I can't do this by myself I need help Maybe it's bravery to feel the anxiety And let myself finally speak what's inside of me It feels so good to say that I am not okay I need help I'm so tired of keepin' secrets I need someone else to hear this I need help I've tried, and I can't do this by myself I need help Tell God and somebody else Tell God and somebody else Tell God and somebody else Tell God and somebody else Tell God and somebody else Tell God and somebody else tell God and somebody else (To be found) tell God and somebody else (There is help) tell God and somebody else (Here and now) tell God and somebody else (To be found) tell God and somebody else (There is help) tell God and somebody else (Here and now) tell God and somebody else (To be found) tell God and somebody else (to be found) (There is help) tell God and somebody else (Here and now) tell God and somebody else (To be found) tell God and somebody else (to be found) (There is help) tell God and somebody else (Here and now) I need help I need help I'm finally being honest with myself I need help
Closing Thoughts
“Jesus and Therapy” is a moving anthem that speaks directly to the struggles many of us face: fear, anxiety, and the weight of our mistakes. This song touches me deeply, reminding me of God’s truth and love. The enemy often uses fear, anxiety, and worry to keep us from sharing our faith, fixing our eyes on Jesus, and experiencing the greater things God has in store for us as His followers. Yet, through this song, Josh Wilson invites us to confront those lies and embrace the healing in both Jesus and the community.
This song beautifully connects with the biblical truth in James 5:16: “Therefore, confess your sins to one another, and pray for one another so that you may be healed.” It’s a call to honesty—not pretending that “you’re fine,” but leaning on others for support and healing. As the song emphasizes, true healing comes from authentic community and God’s grace.
I get swept up in the song’s raw honesty, which reflects my heart's cry. Even when saved, you may beat yourself up over failures or feel unworthy of God’s love. And that’s the point: none of us are worthy. Grace isn’t earned; it’s a gift—a beautiful expression of God’s unmerited favor to His children. Romans 5:8 reminds us, “But God demonstrates His love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Despite our sins, God calls us His children—sons and daughters if we have accepted Jesus as our Savior and substitute.
“Jesus and Therapy” celebrates the freedom promised in God’s Word. As 2 Corinthians 5:17 proclaims, “If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.” It encourages us to boldly approach the throne of grace, seeking mercy and the help we need. Though we were once dead in our sins, by grace, we are made alive in Christ.
The song reminds us to embrace our weaknesses rather than hide them, for God’s grace and strength are most powerfully revealed in our vulnerability. It speaks to the lies and the whispers of the enemy, who seeks to discourage us. But the voice of God’s agape love speaks louder, urging us to see ourselves through His eyes—redeemed, forgiven, and loved.
This song carries a profound message of redemption, grace, and healing. As Wilson’s lyrics proclaim:
“Tell God and somebody else (To be found) tell God and somebody else (to be found) (There is help) tell God and somebody else (Here and now) I need help I need help I’m finally being honest with myself I need help.”
It’s a testament to Wilson’s skill as a songwriter that he can distill these powerful truths into a relatable and moving song. Through “Jesus and Therapy,” Wilson offers a heartfelt reminder to confront your struggles, lean on God and others, and find the healing and freedom available in Christ. Amen to that.
NRT lead contributor Kevin Davis is a long-time Christian music fan and an avid collector. He credits the message of Christian music for leading him to Christ. He lives in Pennsylvania with his wife and three daughters.
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