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You're the Worst Person in the World: Why It's the Best News Ever that You Don't Have it Together, You Aren't Enough, and You Can't Fix It on Your Own
Are you tired of the unrelenting pressure to be the best at everything? Author and speaker Scarlet Hiltibidal was too.
For Scarlet, attempting to be the best at pretty much everything—whether that be the best wife or the best sub-sandwich maker or the best Christian—was her life story. But in the midst of all her striving and reaching to hit the mark, she somehow still couldn’t grab hold of the joy and freedom and life-change that’s supposed to come with the gospel’s good news. That is, until she realized something revolutionary—instead of the best, she might actually be…the worst . The “chief of sinners.” Poor in spirit and gone astray.
In her much-anticipated follow-up to Afraid of All the Things (and in her humorous and relatable style), Scarlet tells plenty of stories of her own “worstness” to help you see your own and rejoice in the reality that our goodness and badness aren’t what make God smile at us.
Instead of hiding from our brokenness, this book will help us stare that broken reality straight in the face, along with a laugh or two, as we feel the weight of just how absurdly and glaringly off the mark we all are! What’s more—this book will also help us embrace our status as “sinners” and “sheep” and “worst people on earth” who have been mercifully rescued and impossibly loved by the best person who has ever Jesus. And the unbelievable part? As we admit our worstness, stop trying to be perfect on our own, and simply walk with the One who really is perfect, we’ll find along the way that we are actually changing for the better!
If you’re tired of hustling to be the best, take a load off with Scarlet and say the honest and laughable truth along with we’re the worst people in the world!
For Scarlet, attempting to be the best at pretty much everything—whether that be the best wife or the best sub-sandwich maker or the best Christian—was her life story. But in the midst of all her striving and reaching to hit the mark, she somehow still couldn’t grab hold of the joy and freedom and life-change that’s supposed to come with the gospel’s good news. That is, until she realized something revolutionary—instead of the best, she might actually be…the worst . The “chief of sinners.” Poor in spirit and gone astray.
In her much-anticipated follow-up to Afraid of All the Things (and in her humorous and relatable style), Scarlet tells plenty of stories of her own “worstness” to help you see your own and rejoice in the reality that our goodness and badness aren’t what make God smile at us.
Instead of hiding from our brokenness, this book will help us stare that broken reality straight in the face, along with a laugh or two, as we feel the weight of just how absurdly and glaringly off the mark we all are! What’s more—this book will also help us embrace our status as “sinners” and “sheep” and “worst people on earth” who have been mercifully rescued and impossibly loved by the best person who has ever Jesus. And the unbelievable part? As we admit our worstness, stop trying to be perfect on our own, and simply walk with the One who really is perfect, we’ll find along the way that we are actually changing for the better!
If you’re tired of hustling to be the best, take a load off with Scarlet and say the honest and laughable truth along with we’re the worst people in the world!
- GenresChristianFaithNonfiction
224 pages, Paperback
Published April 5, 2022
28 people are currently reading
328 people want to read
About the author
Scarlet Hiltibidal
18 books8,106 followersScarlet Hiltibidal is the author of Afraid of All the Things and He Numbered the Pores on My Face. She also writes a regular column for ParentLife Magazine and enjoys speaking to women around the country about the freedom and rest available in Jesus. Scarlet lives in Middle Tennessee, where she loves sign language with her daughters, nachos by herself, writing for her friends, and learning how to raise ducks with her husband for no reason other than cuteness.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
May 30, 2022
Incredibly helpful for those who feel pressure to be good enough to earn our salvation either from our religious background or personality. I could relate to so much Scarlet writes about and I’m still learning to accept God’s forgiveness and salvation for Heaven as well as His powerful work of sanctification day to day. Highly recommend!
June 15, 2022
Truth-filled, relatable, easy read
December 14, 2024
I loved listening to this! It was light and accessible, while still having appropriate depth for the topic. I need to be reminded of these truths. I need someone to yell them aggressively at me. All day. I finished and want to recommend it to every person. We are the worst. And it’s OKAY. A couple encouraging takeaways I noted:
“It is in vain that you rise up early and go late to rest, eating the bread of anxious toil; for he gives to his beloved sleep". Psalm 127:2
Rest in Jesus! Stop striving. Your value is not in your productivity or your goodness at anything - even motherhood. You are the worst and you are loved and embraced by God.
Also, decide to live what you believe. There are so many chances in the day to choose to rest in the truth of the gospel instead of strive. Rest! Lean on Jesus. He is enough. It’s ok if you screw up or if something doesn’t get done. Go take a nap.
“Am I going to live what I believe, or am I going to be selfish?
Am I going to live what I believe, or am I going to give in to fear?
Am I going to live what I believe, or am I going to put my wants above my family’s needs?
Am I going to live what I believe, or am I going to obsess all day over what an awful mom I am?”
“It is in vain that you rise up early and go late to rest, eating the bread of anxious toil; for he gives to his beloved sleep". Psalm 127:2
Rest in Jesus! Stop striving. Your value is not in your productivity or your goodness at anything - even motherhood. You are the worst and you are loved and embraced by God.
Also, decide to live what you believe. There are so many chances in the day to choose to rest in the truth of the gospel instead of strive. Rest! Lean on Jesus. He is enough. It’s ok if you screw up or if something doesn’t get done. Go take a nap.
“Am I going to live what I believe, or am I going to be selfish?
Am I going to live what I believe, or am I going to give in to fear?
Am I going to live what I believe, or am I going to put my wants above my family’s needs?
Am I going to live what I believe, or am I going to obsess all day over what an awful mom I am?”
April 8, 2022
This book made me laugh, is packed with wisdom, and best of all points to best one ever, Jesus! Definitely my
new favorite.
new favorite.
May 31, 2022
Oh, man, this was a really lovely read. I am not the hugest fan of non-fiction. I was drawn to read this book because I was scrolling through Instagram and saw an ad for it and a) thought the title was incredible and hilarious and b) I really loved the cover art and as a graphic designer, I am naturally drawn to books with good branding. I laughed and cried while reading this, and it made me reflect on my own walk with Christ and the ways that I try to muster up my own self-righteousness when I really should be admitting I am the worst person in the world. I think the message of this book is so good and so needed in our current world where, while good-intentioned, we’re being constantly told “we’re enough” and other positive but untrue things.
However, what makes this book so lovely is the absolute warmth, vulnerability and humor that Scarlet presents the truth of the gospel in. I related to so much of her candid confessions and it made me feel comfortable being honest with myself about my shortcomings.
However, what makes this book so lovely is the absolute warmth, vulnerability and humor that Scarlet presents the truth of the gospel in. I related to so much of her candid confessions and it made me feel comfortable being honest with myself about my shortcomings.
March 23, 2022
This book. I’m at a loss for words because this book speaks to me so deeply. Are you tired of the unrelenting pressure to be perfect with everything? Do you sin behind closed doors and act perfect outside? Have you found your peace and joy as partners yet ? Are you wrecking your relationships? If you can say yes to any one of these then you need to pick up this book !!!
July 11, 2023
"You're the Worst Person in the World" by Scarlet Hiltibidal is a refreshingly honest and grace-filled exploration of the struggles, imperfections, and insecurities that many individuals face in their lives. Hiltibidal offers a compelling perspective on self-worth, the need for grace, and the transformative power of relying on God's love and acceptance.
One of the strengths of this book is Hiltibidal's authenticity. She fearlessly shares her own personal experiences, challenges, and failures, creating a relatable and empathetic connection with readers. Through her vulnerable storytelling, she dismantles the illusion of perfection and invites readers to embrace their brokenness as an opportunity for growth and reliance on God's unconditional love.
The book's title may appear provocative, but Hiltibidal's intention is not to shame or belittle readers. On the contrary, she seeks to challenge the prevailing cultural narrative that places immense pressure on individuals to have it all together. By highlighting our inherent limitations and need for grace, Hiltibidal encourages readers to let go of the burden of self-sufficiency and instead find freedom and peace in embracing their dependence on God.
Hiltibidal's writing style is engaging, humorous, and filled with genuine compassion. Her ability to blend personal anecdotes with biblical teachings and principles is seamless. She guides readers through a journey of self-reflection and growth, gently reminding them of God's love and provision in the midst of their imperfections.
While the book offers a refreshing perspective and encourages readers to embrace their brokenness, some may find that it lacks a more nuanced discussion of personal responsibility and the importance of striving for personal growth. While the focus is on relying on God's grace, it is essential to balance this with a recognition of our responsibility to actively pursue positive change in our lives.
In conclusion, "You're the Worst Person in the World: Why It's the Best News Ever that You Don't Have it Together, You Aren't Enough, and You Can't Fix It on Your Own" by Scarlet Hiltibidal is a thought-provoking and compassionate book that challenges readers to let go of the pressure to be perfect. With her relatable stories and grace-filled message, Hiltibidal reminds us that our worth is not defined by our achievements or ability to have it all together. This book serves as a reminder of the transformative power of relying on God's grace and accepting ourselves as imperfect beings in need of His love.
Rating: 4/5
One of the strengths of this book is Hiltibidal's authenticity. She fearlessly shares her own personal experiences, challenges, and failures, creating a relatable and empathetic connection with readers. Through her vulnerable storytelling, she dismantles the illusion of perfection and invites readers to embrace their brokenness as an opportunity for growth and reliance on God's unconditional love.
The book's title may appear provocative, but Hiltibidal's intention is not to shame or belittle readers. On the contrary, she seeks to challenge the prevailing cultural narrative that places immense pressure on individuals to have it all together. By highlighting our inherent limitations and need for grace, Hiltibidal encourages readers to let go of the burden of self-sufficiency and instead find freedom and peace in embracing their dependence on God.
Hiltibidal's writing style is engaging, humorous, and filled with genuine compassion. Her ability to blend personal anecdotes with biblical teachings and principles is seamless. She guides readers through a journey of self-reflection and growth, gently reminding them of God's love and provision in the midst of their imperfections.
While the book offers a refreshing perspective and encourages readers to embrace their brokenness, some may find that it lacks a more nuanced discussion of personal responsibility and the importance of striving for personal growth. While the focus is on relying on God's grace, it is essential to balance this with a recognition of our responsibility to actively pursue positive change in our lives.
In conclusion, "You're the Worst Person in the World: Why It's the Best News Ever that You Don't Have it Together, You Aren't Enough, and You Can't Fix It on Your Own" by Scarlet Hiltibidal is a thought-provoking and compassionate book that challenges readers to let go of the pressure to be perfect. With her relatable stories and grace-filled message, Hiltibidal reminds us that our worth is not defined by our achievements or ability to have it all together. This book serves as a reminder of the transformative power of relying on God's grace and accepting ourselves as imperfect beings in need of His love.
Rating: 4/5
May 25, 2022
I love the title of this book and how it flies In the face of what our social media culture is always pushing… “you are whatever you think you can be” or “always put your best foot forward.” I think it’s truly so difficult to see ourselves properly, especially in light of God’s grace.
She says it perfectly on page 29 “it’s really hard to accept being the worst when everything in us wants to be the best.” We have to understand our own needy-ness. And , in another place she describes , “…the poison of my self-righteousness”.
I really enjoyed her stories and illustrations and feel she did an excellent job of explaining some tough Biblical concepts. For example, I loved the quote on page 151, “we can make our lives about pointing to Jesus when we get it right and pointing to His unfailing grace with gratitude when we get it wrong.”
Scarlet’s writing flows smoothly and makes difficult ideas and principles easy to understand. She shares authentically and openly about her own struggles and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend this book to other women in my life, especially women in their 20’s and 30’s. Her target audience is probably a bit younger than me, but I still really enjoyed this book.
My thanks to Net Galley and B&H Publishing Group for the opportunity to read this copy of You’re the Worst Person in the World.
She says it perfectly on page 29 “it’s really hard to accept being the worst when everything in us wants to be the best.” We have to understand our own needy-ness. And , in another place she describes , “…the poison of my self-righteousness”.
I really enjoyed her stories and illustrations and feel she did an excellent job of explaining some tough Biblical concepts. For example, I loved the quote on page 151, “we can make our lives about pointing to Jesus when we get it right and pointing to His unfailing grace with gratitude when we get it wrong.”
Scarlet’s writing flows smoothly and makes difficult ideas and principles easy to understand. She shares authentically and openly about her own struggles and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend this book to other women in my life, especially women in their 20’s and 30’s. Her target audience is probably a bit younger than me, but I still really enjoyed this book.
My thanks to Net Galley and B&H Publishing Group for the opportunity to read this copy of You’re the Worst Person in the World.
February 14, 2022
While I didn't think I would enjoy a book that called me "The Worst Person In The World", I finished it all in one sitting. Like the author, I am guilty of comparing myself to others and thinking "I'm pretty okay compared to this person." In this book, Scarlet tackles the many ways we like to think highly of ourselves and shows us how, despite our best efforts, we won't measure up on our own. We can never be enough outside of God and his protection and love. Scarlet uses stories of her own experiences to explain the various points throughout the book. As you read her tales of being "the worst", it is easy to see yourself in the same way. Scarlet brings God's love and protection down to an easy level of understanding for even the newest of Christians. She doesn't use a lot of big "Christian" words like sanctification or propitiation, yet conveys their message easily. If you ever feel like you just can't get it together, I recommend giving this book a read. It's not super long and is easy to understand when you feel like life keeps throwing you curveballs.
April 23, 2022
First off, this You're the Worst Person in the World was nothing like what I thought it would be, but so much better than any thing I imagined. I have been a Christian for most of my life, so I wouldn't have thought a book about how much we need God to save us from ourselves would teach me much, but this book did.
"If God were beholden to our holiness, there would be no such thing as holiness and no such thing as God," is just one nugget of truth that stuck out to me in the book. Scarlet Hiltibidal shares her own stories about the constant need she had and has for Jesus and without him we are never going to be complete and will always be seeking completeness through food, control or perfection.
This is the perfect book to present the Gospel to women and I recommend it for all Christians.
I received a complimentary copy of You're the Worst Person in the World, but all opinions are my own.
"If God were beholden to our holiness, there would be no such thing as holiness and no such thing as God," is just one nugget of truth that stuck out to me in the book. Scarlet Hiltibidal shares her own stories about the constant need she had and has for Jesus and without him we are never going to be complete and will always be seeking completeness through food, control or perfection.
This is the perfect book to present the Gospel to women and I recommend it for all Christians.
I received a complimentary copy of You're the Worst Person in the World, but all opinions are my own.
January 30, 2022
When a friend commented to bestselling author Scarlet Hiltibidal that she could just splash "You're the Worst Person in the World" on the cover of a book and people would buy it, Hiltibidal initially laughed. However, she then began thinking about how we often believe we are the worst, and others can't possible be as bad as us. With this book, she's taken the chance to show her readers how we are, indeed, the worst of sinners, yet Christ still wants to have a relationship with us. I appreciate how she used Bible verses and her trademark transparency to hep Christians have an accurate view of ourselves.
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
April 8, 2022
"Before Christ, I wanted to be the best EVERYTHING. After Christ, I wanted to be the best CHRISTIAN. But the whole point of Christianity is there is no such thing." - Scarlet Hiltibidal
Every chapter of this book had me laughing and nodding in agreement. From learning about being the worst girlfriend to the worst church lady and everything in between, Scarlet relates to her readers in the most authentic way. I was encouraged in my walk with Christ and will be recommending this book to all of my friends. Relatable, timely, and so, so good!
Every chapter of this book had me laughing and nodding in agreement. From learning about being the worst girlfriend to the worst church lady and everything in between, Scarlet relates to her readers in the most authentic way. I was encouraged in my walk with Christ and will be recommending this book to all of my friends. Relatable, timely, and so, so good!
July 13, 2022
Scarlet’s writing style is conversational, witty, and so humorous. The concept of this book is spot on and flies in the face of modern culture. Society is inundated with the elevation of self and daily affirmations while this book affirms that apart from the love and grace of Jesus “you’re (I’m) the worst.” The beauty in this message is freedom. On our own, we will never be enough. The hope & beauty is found in our More than Enough God. This book was enjoyable, relatable, and a good read for all!
March 23, 2024
Have You Ever Said That About Yourself?
I have… Did I mean it.. a few times. This book really helped me with some self-esteem issues and more.
I love Scarlet’s heart and how she expresses herself in her books. She is thoughtful and funny. It’s like sitting down with a friend and sharing.
I look forward to reading more books by this author!
I received a complimentary ARC of this book from NetGalley on behalf of the Publisher and was under no obligation to post a favorable review.
I received a complimentary ARC of this book from NetGalley on behalf of the Publisher and was under no obligation to post a favorable review.
January 5, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
I appreciated what this author had to say, but there were times when I felt her application point was muddied and could’ve been clarified more. She shared a lot of good truth and I needed a lot of it, but I think it could’ve been written in a more consumable fashion. It was an easy read, so if the topic is of interest I recommend.
I appreciated what this author had to say, but there were times when I felt her application point was muddied and could’ve been clarified more. She shared a lot of good truth and I needed a lot of it, but I think it could’ve been written in a more consumable fashion. It was an easy read, so if the topic is of interest I recommend.
April 16, 2022
Scarlet did it again. This book is amazing. I laughed, I cried, and I felt so related too. She points us to Jesus instead of striving and it’s exactly the message I needed to hear. Thank you, Scarlet!
June 1, 2022
I think she’s a great person, but her personality is just not like mine, so I do find the book unrelated for ME. it would be good if this personality tends to be you. Just not really my cup of tea, but I’ll give stars b/c I do like her writing.
July 26, 2022
This was a wonderful read! Scarlett writes in a very engaging, authentic voice and brings the reader back to the fact that we don't have to be perfect, and that Jesus came for those of us who admit to being "the worst".
August 1, 2022
Really easy and engaging read with really solid scriptural lessons!
February 3, 2024
A book that really showed how God loves. Great writing.
May 27, 2024
a perfectly written reminder of why it’s okay to not be perfect & how god loves you regardless
September 7, 2024
So much truth packed into such a quick read! I’ll officially read anything that Scarlet Hiltibidal writes.
June 27, 2025
A great read for those who struggle with legalism and need to rest in the gospel of Jesus.
July 16, 2025
Used this as a daily devotion with a chapter a day-she had some funny stories and depicted how some women feel about different aspects of their life.
August 30, 2025
3.5⭐️
Lots of good truth, sometimes made me laugh, but sometimes I felt the little side notes were distracting.
Lots of good truth, sometimes made me laugh, but sometimes I felt the little side notes were distracting.
April 5, 2022
“Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst.” (1 Timothy 1:15b) I signed-up to be on the Launch Team for Scarlet Hiltibidal’s soon to be released book You’re the Worst Person in the World, and loved it. Please read it: *If you can relate to feeling like the worst. *If you can relate to the perfectionist syndrome that is so rampant in our society. *If you are simply tired of striving towards being the best at it all, and need reminders of God's goodness and truth of His Word.
I wasn’t sure if this new release from Scarlet could be as good as her first release "Afraid of All the Things" (which I LOVE), but this one is truly so refreshing, with such good reminders. I love the way Scarlet uses her voice in writing…. Maybe a little self deprecating (much like myself… we could be friends in real life), with such honesty, grace, humor (which I love), while always pointing us to God’s Word to remind us of His truth. This book is a quick read that will be worth your time!
Thanks to Netgalley for the opportunity for a digital read and review! Opinions are my own.
I wasn’t sure if this new release from Scarlet could be as good as her first release "Afraid of All the Things" (which I LOVE), but this one is truly so refreshing, with such good reminders. I love the way Scarlet uses her voice in writing…. Maybe a little self deprecating (much like myself… we could be friends in real life), with such honesty, grace, humor (which I love), while always pointing us to God’s Word to remind us of His truth. This book is a quick read that will be worth your time!
Thanks to Netgalley for the opportunity for a digital read and review! Opinions are my own.
May 18, 2022
I kinda love this book.
January 1, 2024
Another great book by her. I will be reading this one again for sure. Such good stuff. “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners - of whom I am the worst” (1 Tim. 1:15b) #worsties
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