If you've ever felt less than perfect, wondered if God was angry at you, questioned your faith, been filled with doubts, was sure that God wouldn't forgive you "this time", then you need a God for the rest of us. Maybe you’ve wondered if God would even love someone like you because of all the things you done or said. Today we looked at how Jesus was a “friend of sinners” and how no one is too far gone. No matter how many steps you've taken away from God, it only takes one step back. We can’t please God with our goodness because none of us are good enough. God wants our hearts, a relationship, and for us to have faith in Him even to follow Him.

1) Have you ever felt like you don’t fit in? Explain.

2) If you didn’t really go to church before, what was it like the first time you came to church?

3) This past message was God for the Messed Up? How can you relate to that topic?

4) Read Matthew 9:9-12. How would you describe the character of Jesus according to these verses? What do you think he meant in verse 12?

5) Why do we often try to impress God with our goodness or feel guilty when we compare ourselves to other people's goodness?

6) Read Hebrews 11:6. What do you think this means for our lives?

7) What are some next steps to make Jesus the center of our lives?

God thank you for your incredible unconditional love. I need it. You know all the times I messed up but you love me anyways. Please forgive me. I need your grace and mercy in my life. Grow my faith in You. I want to trust you and not try to impress you with my own deeds. I want to have faith that changes my heart to follow you. Amen.