“But when Jesus heard this, He said, “It is not those who are healthy who need a physician, but those who are sick. But go and learn what this means: ‘I desire compassion, and not sacrifice,’ for I did not come to call the righteous, but sinners.””
— Matthew 9:12–13

It may seem obvious, but today’s passage reveals an important truth: Jesus just wants us to recognize that we need Him. He did not come for the righteous but for sinners; He came for those who know they are sick. This tells us, beloved, that we do not have to be perfect to go before God. He already knows we’re not perfect.

Jesus loves and accepts you just as you are. His death on the cross built a bridge that enables you to receive the fullness of the Father’s love right where you are. God is never going to love you any more or less than He loves you right now. But please hear me when I say this: He loves you and me too much to leave us where we are. He wants to conform us to the image of His dear Son, as Romans 8:29 says.

God doesn’t expect us to be perfect, but He does expect us to be transparent before Him. He wants us to be open with Him so He can work in the areas of our lives that need healing and deliverance. That is my challenge to you today. Be open and vulnerable before God. Tell Him how much you need Him. Tell Him what is wrong in your life. Tell Him where you need help, because Jesus said He did not come for those who are well but for those who need a physician.

Talk to God every day and tell Him where it hurts. Tell Him where you are sick. Tell Him where you need help. If you are struggling with an area of sin, be open and honest. Cry out to God. When you do, God will transform your life, because He came for those who know they are sick and choose to turn to Him.

Father, forgive me for not always being honest with You about myself. I need You. I love You. Help me in Messiah Jesus’ name.

Rabbi Kirt A. Schneider, Rivers of Revelation (Lake Mary, FL: Charisma House, 2020), Used by permission.