God invites us into His presence because He is gracious, not because we are faultless. This is encapsulated in the words “come as you are.”
The Bible repeatedly demonstrates that God extends an extended embrace to the tired, the broken, and the sinful. Scripture emphasizes the fact that we don’t have to purify ourselves before coming to Jesus, as evidenced by His invitation for the burdened to rest in Him and His dinner with tax collectors and sinners. Rather, God meets us where we are and uses His love to change us.
These “come as you are” Bible passages serve as a reminder that salvation is freely offered through trust in Jesus Christ rather than something that must be earned via good deeds. God’s call is open to everyone, regardless of background, shortcomings, or failings; it is not just for the strong or the righteous.
We encounter His forgiveness, mercy, and the new life He provides when we approach Him sincerely, without disguises or pretenses. Christianity is unique in that we are welcomed and accepted before we have anything to contribute.
These verses serve as a potent reminder of God’s unwavering love for people who are feeling inadequate or burdened by shame. Knowing that He is prepared to receive us with compassion, they inspire us to approach Him with bravery. “Come as you are” signifies that God accepts us in our brokenness and then starts the process of renewal, not that we stay the same. His Word teaches us that genuine change starts with an open heart that is ready to approach Him and have faith that He will complete us.
40 Inspiring Bible Verses About Come As You Are (2025)
1. Matthew 11:28
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”
In this verse, Jesus speaks directly to the weary, the broken, and the heavily burdened. Life often weighs us down with stress, guilt, shame, and responsibilities that seem impossible to carry alone. Instead of demanding perfection or qualifications, Christ simply says, “Come.” His invitation is universal and deeply personal—He does not ask us to clean ourselves up before approaching Him. Rest, in this context, is not just physical but spiritual and emotional, bringing peace to the restless soul. This verse teaches us that Jesus Himself is the source of true relief, not our own striving.
2. Isaiah 55:1
“Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters; and you who have no money, come, buy and eat!”
God paints a vivid picture of abundance freely available to all. Thirst here symbolizes spiritual emptiness, a longing for something deeper than worldly pleasures. The invitation to those “with no money” highlights grace—salvation is not purchased with wealth, effort, or good works but received freely through God’s mercy. The passage reminds us that no matter how unworthy or poor in spirit we feel, God’s table is open. We are not required to bring anything except our hunger and thirst for Him. This is the heart of the gospel—come as you are, and God will supply what you lack.
3. John 6:37
“All those the Father gives me will come to me, and whoever comes to me I will never drive away.”
This verse offers one of the most comforting promises in Scripture. Jesus assures us that no one who approaches Him sincerely will ever be rejected. Human relationships often carry rejection and conditional acceptance, but Christ’s love is steadfast. He does not measure us by our past, our failures, or our mistakes. Instead, He guarantees security, belonging, and love to anyone who comes. This is a direct contradiction to the lie that we must be “good enough” to be loved by God. The beauty of this promise is found in its permanence—“I will never drive away” confirms the unbreakable bond we have in Christ.
4. Revelation 22:17
“The Spirit and the bride say, ‘Come!’ And let the one who hears say, ‘Come!’ Let the one who is thirsty come; and let the one who wishes take the free gift of the water of life.”
The closing invitation of the Bible beautifully captures God’s heart—He desires all to come to Him. Here, the Spirit, the Church (the bride), and even the reader join in extending the call. The repetition of “come” highlights urgency and inclusivity; there are no barriers or exclusions. The “water of life” is a symbol of eternal salvation, freely given to all who are willing to receive it. What’s profound about this verse is that it leaves the choice in our hands: anyone who thirsts and anyone who wills may come. God’s grace is abundant, His table is set, and His arms remain open until the very end of time.
5. Joel 2:32
“And everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”
This verse underscores the inclusivity of God’s saving grace. The word “everyone” is key—no one is excluded from the promise of salvation if they call upon Him sincerely. Joel reminds us that salvation is not reserved for the righteous or those who appear perfect but is extended to all who recognize their need for God. Coming to Him is not about presenting credentials but about surrendering with a humble heart. This verse breaks down barriers of status, culture, and past mistakes, assuring us that God hears the cry of all who call His name.
6. James 4:8
“Come near to God and he will come near to you.”
Here, James emphasizes the nearness and accessibility of God. Unlike distant deities of ancient cultures, our God invites closeness and intimacy. The promise is reciprocal—when we take even a small step toward Him, He responds by drawing near in love and grace. This verse doesn’t demand perfection or ritual; it calls us simply to approach Him as we are, with sincerity. The assurance is that God will not ignore us but will meet us where we stand, cleansing us and drawing us deeper into His presence.
7. John 7:37
“Let anyone who is thirsty come to me and drink.”
Jesus delivers this invitation during a great festival, making it a public and bold call. The thirst He refers to is not physical but spiritual—a longing for peace, fulfillment, and eternal life. By offering living water, He identifies Himself as the answer to humanity’s deepest need. The word “anyone” leaves no room for exclusion; no matter the past, the brokenness, or the doubts, His invitation is open. Coming to Him quenches the soul in a way the world cannot. This verse highlights that fulfillment and satisfaction are found only in Christ.
8. Psalm 34:18
“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
Unlike human systems that often value strength, success, and perfection, God leans toward the broken and wounded. This verse reassures us that our brokenness does not disqualify us but actually draws God near. To be “crushed in spirit” means to be weighed down by sorrow, guilt, or despair—yet it is precisely in such moments that God’s presence becomes most evident. He does not demand we hide our pain but invites us to bring it to Him. This verse reveals the compassionate heart of God, who meets us in our lowest moments and lifts us into His saving grace.
9. Romans 10:13
“Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”
Paul reaffirms Joel’s prophecy, highlighting the universal scope of salvation. The repetition of “everyone” underscores the certainty that salvation is available to all who believe, regardless of background, sin, or weakness. The act of calling upon God is simple yet powerful—an act of faith that bridges the gap between human brokenness and divine mercy. This verse reminds us that salvation is not about performance but about trust in the saving work of Christ. Coming as we are means believing in His promise, knowing He is faithful to answer.
10. Hebrews 4:16
“Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.”
This verse paints a beautiful image of God’s throne—not as a throne of judgment for those in Christ, but as a throne of grace. Believers are invited to approach boldly, not in fear, but with assurance that mercy awaits. We do not have to hide our weaknesses or mask our struggles; instead, we can come openly, confident that God’s grace covers our failures. This promise is especially powerful because it assures us of timely help—God meets us right where we are, in the very moment of our need.
11. Luke 15:20
“But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him.”
The parable of the prodigal son powerfully illustrates God’s heart toward those who return to Him. The father does not wait for his son to arrive with polished words of repentance; he runs to meet him, filled with compassion. This picture reminds us that God does not hold us at a distance until we are “good enough.” Instead, He rushes to embrace us, no matter how far we have wandered. Our coming to Him, broken and unworthy, is met with overwhelming love and acceptance.
12. Mark 2:17
“It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.”
Jesus makes it clear that His mission is not for those who think they have it all together, but for those who recognize their need. Just as a doctor exists to heal the sick, Christ came to bring salvation to sinners. This verse challenges self-righteousness and reassures the broken-hearted: we are precisely the ones He came for. Coming as we are—flawed, guilty, and in need—does not repel Him but qualifies us for His healing and grace.
13. John 4:29
“Come, see a man who told me everything I ever did. Could this be the Messiah?”
The Samaritan woman at the well had lived a life of brokenness and shame, yet her encounter with Jesus changed everything. Instead of condemning her, He revealed Himself to her and offered living water. Her response was not fear but excitement—she invited others to “come and see” the one who knew her fully yet still loved her. This verse reminds us that Jesus knows us completely—our sins, our secrets, our past—and still calls us to Himself. There is freedom in coming to Christ as we are, without fear of rejection.
14. Psalm 145:18
“The Lord is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth.”
God’s nearness is not limited by status, sin, or circumstance. Anyone who calls sincerely upon His name experiences His presence. This verse assures us that honesty before God—laying down our masks and pretenses—is enough to draw Him close. Coming as we are, in truth and humility, is what opens the door to His grace. He is not distant or indifferent but responds with intimacy to those who reach out to Him.
15. 2 Corinthians 5:17
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”
This verse celebrates the transforming power of Christ. When we come to Him, we don’t stay the same—our old sins and failures no longer define us. Instead, we are made new, clothed in righteousness, and restored to our true identity in God. The beauty of this transformation is that it doesn’t require us to fix ourselves first; the new creation begins the moment we surrender. Coming as we are is only the beginning—God does the work of renewal from the inside out.
16. Matthew 22:9
“So go to the street corners and invite to the banquet anyone you find.”
In the parable of the wedding banquet, Jesus illustrates God’s radical inclusivity. The original guests refused the invitation, so the king commands that everyone—regardless of status, background, or condition—be invited. This verse demonstrates that God’s kingdom is not exclusive but open to all. His call is to the highways and byways, to the broken and forgotten. The banquet table is set, and we are welcome to come just as we are.
17. Matthew 9:13
“For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.”
Jesus reiterates His mission of mercy. Religion often emphasizes outward righteousness, but Christ focuses on inward need. He doesn’t wait for people to achieve holiness before inviting them; He calls sinners to Himself in their brokenness. This verse reassures us that sin does not disqualify us from His love—it is the very reason He came. Coming as we are, in our sinfulness, opens the way for Christ to bring forgiveness and transformation.
18. Zechariah 1:3
“Return to me, and I will return to you,” declares the Lord Almighty.
This verse reveals God’s desire for a restored relationship. Even when His people stray, His call is simple: “Return to me.” The promise is immediate—when we turn toward Him, He turns toward us. There are no conditions of worthiness, no waiting periods, no hoops to jump through. The moment we come as we are, God meets us with open arms. This verse shows His eagerness for reconciliation and His faithfulness in keeping His promise of nearness.
19. Psalm 51:17
“My sacrifice, O God, is a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart you, God, will not despise.”
David’s prayer after his sin with Bathsheba highlights what God truly desires—an honest, repentant heart. God does not reject brokenness; He embraces it. A contrite spirit—humble, honest, and aware of its need—pleases Him more than any outward offering. This verse assures us that when we come as we are, even in our brokenness, God does not turn us away. Instead, He welcomes and restores those who humbly seek His mercy.
20. John 1:12
“Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.”
This verse emphasizes the simplicity of receiving Christ. We do not earn the right to be God’s children through works or perfection; it is granted by grace through belief. The phrase “to all” underscores inclusivity—anyone who comes to Him is welcomed into His family. This verse captures the essence of the gospel: come as you are, believe, and be transformed into a child of God. Our identity shifts from strangers to beloved members of God’s household.
21. John 3:16
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
Perhaps the most well-known verse in Scripture, this passage captures the very heart of the gospel. God’s invitation is for the entire world—not a select few, not only the righteous, but “whoever believes.” Coming as you are means recognizing God’s love and accepting the free gift of salvation through Christ. Eternal life is not earned by works but received through faith, and this verse assures us that anyone—regardless of past failures—can step into that promise.
22. Matthew 19:14
“Jesus said, ‘Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.’”
Jesus welcomes children as they are—innocent, dependent, and unpretentious. His words remind us that the kingdom of heaven is not reserved for the powerful or sophisticated but for those who approach Him with humility and trust. The image of children running freely to Jesus shows that He desires authenticity, not pretense. This verse teaches us that when we come to God in childlike faith, we are welcomed and embraced without hesitation.
23. John 5:40
“Yet you refuse to come to me to have life.”
Jesus laments that many people resist His invitation, even though He alone is the source of true life. This verse highlights the tragedy of rejecting God’s grace while clinging to empty pursuits. Life—eternal and abundant—is offered freely, but it must be received. The message is clear: if we truly desire life, hope, and transformation, we must come to Him as we are. Our refusal is the only thing standing in the way of His promise.
24. Jeremiah 29:13
“You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.”
This verse assures us of God’s accessibility. He does not play hide-and-seek with His children; instead, He promises to be found by those who earnestly seek Him. Coming as we are, with sincerity and openness, is what matters most. We don’t have to bring perfection—just our whole heart. This passage reminds us that God is always near and ready to reveal Himself to those who genuinely desire His presence.
25. Luke 18:13
“But the tax collector stood at a distance. He would not even look up to heaven, but beat his breast and said, ‘God, have mercy on me, a sinner.’”
In this parable, Jesus contrasts the proud Pharisee with the humble tax collector. The tax collector’s prayer is simple, raw, and honest—he comes to God just as he is, admitting his sin. Jesus commends his humility, teaching us that God values authenticity over self-righteousness. This verse is a powerful reminder that brokenness and repentance draw God’s mercy, while pride creates distance.
26. Isaiah 1:18
“Come now, let us settle the matter,” says the Lord. “Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow.”
This verse reveals God’s willingness to forgive, no matter how deep the stain of sin. Scarlet symbolizes sin’s vivid and permanent mark, yet God promises cleansing and renewal. The invitation is not to those who are already clean but to those who feel stained and unworthy. Coming as you are means bringing your sins to the Lord, trusting His power to wash you clean and restore you to purity.
27. John 14:6
“Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’”
Here, Jesus boldly declares that He is the only way to God. The invitation to come is not through religion, rituals, or personal achievements but through Christ Himself. This verse reminds us that no amount of self-effort can bridge the gap between humanity and God—it is Christ who makes the way. Coming as we are means relying on Him fully as the path to eternal life.
28. Psalm 100:4
“Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name.”
This psalm invites us to approach God joyfully, not with fear or hesitation. Thanksgiving and praise are the keys to entering His presence, and they are available to everyone. We don’t need perfection or elaborate rituals—just a heart of gratitude and willingness to worship. Coming as we are, we can step into God’s presence and experience the joy of communion with Him.
29. Romans 5:8
“But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
This verse reveals the depth of God’s unconditional love. Christ did not wait for us to become righteous before offering Himself—He died for us at our worst. This truth liberates us from striving for perfection before approaching God. We can come as we are, knowing His love has already been demonstrated on the cross. His sacrifice assures us that nothing can separate us from His embrace.
30. Revelation 3:20
“Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me.”
Jesus’ invitation is personal and intimate. He stands at the door of our hearts, knocking patiently, waiting for us to welcome Him in. The promise of fellowship—sharing a meal—symbolizes closeness and relationship. What’s striking is that the only requirement is to open the door; we don’t need to clean up the house first. Coming as we are, we simply let Him in, and He brings fellowship, healing, and transformation.
31. Psalm 23:1-2
“The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters.”
David paints a picture of God as a caring Shepherd who provides rest and refreshment. Sheep do not clean themselves up before approaching the shepherd—they come needy, vulnerable, and dependent. Likewise, God invites us to come to Him in our weakness, and He meets our needs with provision, rest, and peace. This passage shows that coming as we are means trusting the Shepherd’s care, knowing He restores and sustains our souls.
32. Matthew 5:6
“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.”
Jesus promises satisfaction to those who long for righteousness. Hunger and thirst are raw, natural needs—they represent desperation and dependence. This verse reminds us that God does not demand we come already filled; He blesses our hunger and longing for Him. Coming as we are, with empty hands and thirsty hearts, opens the door to divine fulfillment.
33. John 11:43-44
“When he had said this, Jesus called in a loud voice, ‘Lazarus, come out!’ The dead man came out, his hands and feet wrapped with strips of linen, and a cloth around his face.”
Lazarus’ resurrection is a powerful symbol of Jesus’ ability to bring life where there is death. Lazarus didn’t make himself presentable before responding—he came out still bound in grave clothes. In the same way, Christ calls us to come just as we are, even in spiritual death, and He provides the power of new life. This passage reminds us that we don’t need to remove our own “grave clothes”; Jesus calls us forth and sets us free.
34. Hosea 6:1
“Come, let us return to the Lord. He has torn us to pieces but he will heal us; he has injured us but he will bind up our wounds.”
This verse is a call to return to God after a season of straying. It acknowledges that while discipline and hardship may have occurred, God’s ultimate desire is healing and restoration. Coming as we are means returning to Him in brokenness, trusting His power to bind up wounds and restore what was lost. This passage reveals the balance of God’s justice and mercy, inviting us to be made whole again in His presence.
35. John 21:12
“Jesus said to them, ‘Come and have breakfast.’ None of the disciples dared ask him, ‘Who are you?’ They knew it was the Lord.”
After His resurrection, Jesus invites His disciples to a simple meal by the sea. They had recently abandoned Him in fear, yet He greets them not with condemnation but with fellowship. This verse is a gentle reminder that Christ welcomes us back, even after failure, with open arms and nourishment for the soul. Coming as we are, we find that Jesus offers grace, forgiveness, and renewed relationship.
36. Psalm 95:6
“Come, let us bow down in worship, let us kneel before the Lord our Maker.”
This psalm invites us into worship, recognizing God as Creator and Sustainer. The call is not reserved for the perfect but for all who acknowledge Him. Coming as we are, in humility, opens the way for true worship. Bowing down is not about external posture alone but an inward surrender, bringing ourselves honestly before the One who made us.
37. Isaiah 41:17
“The poor and needy search for water, but there is none; their tongues are parched with thirst. But I the Lord will answer them; I, the God of Israel, will not forsake them.”
God responds to those in desperate need. Poverty and thirst symbolize not only physical need but spiritual longing. This verse reassures us that God does not forsake those who come to Him empty and thirsty. His presence supplies what we lack. Coming as we are, in weakness and need, is met with God’s faithful provision and care.
38. Matthew 8:3
“Jesus reached out his hand and touched the man. ‘I am willing,’ he said. ‘Be clean!’ Immediately he was cleansed of his leprosy.”
The leper approached Jesus with boldness, knowing society rejected him as unclean. Jesus’ response is striking—He touches the untouchable and declares healing. This encounter reveals Christ’s heart toward the broken, outcast, and unworthy. We don’t have to wait to be clean before coming; Jesus makes us clean when we approach Him in faith.
39. Romans 8:1
“Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”
This verse proclaims freedom for all who belong to Christ. Condemnation is replaced with grace, and guilt is replaced with forgiveness. We no longer need to fear judgment when we come to Him, for He covers us with His righteousness. This truth liberates us to approach God honestly, knowing that Christ has already borne our punishment. Coming as we are means stepping into grace without fear of rejection.
40. Zephaniah 3:17
“The Lord your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in his love he will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing.”
This beautiful verse reveals God’s heart of love and delight for His people. When we come to Him, He doesn’t merely tolerate us—He rejoices over us. The image of God singing over His children paints a picture of intimacy and joy. Coming as we are means stepping into a love so great that it transforms shame into joy and brokenness into belonging.
Conclusion
Finally, the Bible’s teaching to “come as you are” serves as a lovely reminder that God’s love is independent of our merit, accomplishments, or perfection. He invites us to come to Him in our broken, tired, or troubled state and offers us forgiveness, rest, and rejuvenation. Scripture makes it quite evident that anybody who goes to Him will find open arms and a caring heart; salvation is a gift of grace, not something we earn.
In the end, these lines exhort us to approach God in sincerity and faith, believing that He will meet us where we are and guide us toward change. Allowing God to mold us into the people He intended us to be is what it means to come as we are, not to stay the same. Our journey with Him is one of hope, progress, and fresh life because His love accepts us completely and His Spirit continuously refines us.
