Daily Grace Devotional September 17, 2024 By Evang. Ubong Ifiok

The Danger of Familiarity

Scripture:
“Jesus said to them, ‘A prophet is not without honor except in his own town, among his relatives and in his own home.’ “
— Mark 6:4 (NIV)

Message:
Familiarity with sacred things, people, or even God’s presence can cause us to lose reverence and appreciation for them. This is what is often called “the danger of familiarity.” When we become too accustomed to something, we may begin to overlook its value and power. This can happen in relationships, our spiritual lives, and even our walk with God.

In the Bible, the people of Nazareth became too familiar with Jesus. They had seen Him grow up and only recognized Him as the carpenter’s son, not the Messiah. As a result, they couldn’t receive the full blessings of His ministry. Mark 6:5 tells us that “He could not do any miracles there, except lay his hands on a few sick people and heal them.” Their familiarity limited the flow of God’s power.

When we grow familiar with spiritual things—such as God’s Word, the anointing, the church, or the leaders God places in our lives—we may begin to take them for granted. We lose the awe and reverence that we once had, which can dull our spiritual senses. Over time, this can lead to a lack of growth, complacency, and even rebellion.

There are a few key areas where the danger of familiarity can creep in:

1. God’s Presence:
   Spending time with God should never become a routine we go through without heartfelt engagement. When we lose the awe of His presence, we miss out on the deep relationship and power He offers. We should always approach God with reverence, knowing that we are in the presence of the Almighty.
2. God’s Word:
   Reading the Bible can sometimes become a mechanical process if we’re not careful. However, God’s Word is living and powerful (Hebrews 4:12). Each time we read it, there is something new that God can reveal to us. Familiarity may cause us to overlook its life-changing truths.
3. Spiritual Leaders:
   We can also become too familiar with the leaders and pastors God has placed in our lives. When we start seeing them through a purely human lens, we can lose respect for the anointing on their lives and the spiritual authority they carry. It’s important to honor those God has called to lead us, recognizing the weight of their role.
4. Our Calling:
   Familiarity with our calling can lead to complacency. We must never forget the privilege of serving God and walking in the purpose He has given us. Whether in ministry, business, or our personal lives, every calling from God deserves our full attention and respect.

In order to avoid the danger of familiarity, we need to cultivate a heart of gratitude and reverence. Never lose the wonder of God’s presence. Always honor the anointing in others, and seek to maintain a fresh and vibrant relationship with Him.

Prayer:
Lord, I ask that You guard my heart from the danger of familiarity. Help me to always stand in awe of Your presence and never take Your blessings for granted. Give me a renewed reverence for Your Word, for the anointing on others, and for the calling You have placed on my life. Keep my heart humble and teachable, and help me to continually honor what You’ve placed in my life. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Further Reading:

• Mark 6:1-6
• Hebrews 4:12
• 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13
• Proverbs 4:23

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