There is a misconception that people have to be good and pure first before they can even consider approaching God.
Pastor Rick Warren of Saddleback Church says this is not true, adding that this belief is but a "myth" that has been keeping people away from God.
People might think, "I've got to get it all together. There are a few things I've got to get right in my life first, and then I'll come to God."
Warren says this is wrong.
"It's like brushing your teeth before going to the dentist to have your teeth cleaned or washing the dishes before you put them in the dishwasher or picking up the house before the maid gets there! Why do we do this?" he writes on his website.
The truth is, Warren says, God does not expect people to clean up their acts before they can approach Him. This is why Jesus Christ died on the cross for people's sins. "The death and Resurrection of Jesus is God's statement on that. Jesus spread out His arms and said, 'I love you this much. Now, just come as you are,'" shares Warren.
He then quoted the Bible verse Psalm 57:3. It says: "He will send down help from heaven to save me because of His love." Because of God's sacrifice, people can now bring their messes and failures to Him.
Christians should always spread this message of hope and love to people who have not found God, says Warren. "There are people you know who think God will never love them because they've made such a mess of their lives. But you know God wants them to come as they are. Help them hear the Good News from Jesus," he urges. "Invite them to come to church with you this Easter. It's such a simple thing to do, but it can make a difference that will last for eternity."
