The concept of "the danger of familiarity" is one that Apostle Joshua Selman often emphasizes in his teachings. This profound message serves as a reminder that becoming overly familiar with people, situations, or even spiritual experiences can lead to significant spiritual and personal pitfalls. In this topic, we will explore the key points of this teaching, understand its implications, and examine how familiarity can become a source of danger in our lives.
Understanding the Danger of Familiarity
What Is Familiarity?
Familiarity is the state of being overly acquainted or comfortable with something or someone. It often happens when we engage with someone or something so frequently that we lose the sense of awe, respect, or reverence we initially had. In the context of Apostle Joshua Selman’s teachings, familiarity refers to the loss of honor and regard for people, especially spiritual leaders, and the experiences that initially brought us closer to God.
When we become too familiar with someone, we may begin to overlook their authority or the significance of their position. We begin to see them as ordinary and forget the value they bring to our lives. This is a dangerous mindset, particularly when it comes to the things of God.
The Biblical Foundation of Familiarity
The Bible offers several examples of how familiarity can lead to danger. One key example is found in the story of Jesus Christ’s ministry. In the book of Mark 6:1-6, we see that Jesus returned to His hometown, where He faced rejection. Despite performing many miracles in other places, He could do no mighty works in His hometown because the people were too familiar with Him. They saw Him as the carpenter’s son, and they did not honor Him as the Messiah. This lack of honor and familiarity limited the power of God in their lives.
Jesus Himself highlighted this issue by saying, "A prophet is not without honor except in his own country." This illustrates that when we become too familiar with something or someone, we can miss out on the blessings and the opportunities God has for us.
The Dangers of Familiarity
Loss of Reverence for Spiritual Authority
One of the most dangerous effects of familiarity is the loss of reverence for spiritual authority. In the context of the church, spiritual leaders such as pastors, prophets, and apostles are meant to provide guidance, wisdom, and spiritual nourishment. However, when members of the congregation become overly familiar with these leaders, they may lose respect for them and their teachings.
This lack of respect can lead to rebellion, disobedience, and a failure to receive spiritual guidance. Apostle Joshua Selman often teaches that no matter how familiar we become with a leader, we must always honor the anointing and the position they hold. Losing this reverence can hinder our spiritual growth and limit the blessings that flow from spiritual leadership.
Familiarity Breeds Contempt
Apostle Selman emphasizes that familiarity often breeds contempt. When we become too familiar with something, we may begin to treat it lightly, even to the point of disregarding its significance. This can happen in our relationships with others, including our family members, friends, or colleagues. In a spiritual context, it can lead us to take the things of God for granted.
For example, attending church services regularly can become a routine, where the power and significance of worship are no longer felt. The Bible itself is no longer seen as a source of life-changing wisdom but rather as a book of ancient stories. When we lose sight of the sacredness of these practices, we risk diminishing their transformative power in our lives.
Missed Opportunities for Growth
The danger of familiarity also lies in the missed opportunities for personal and spiritual growth. When we become too comfortable with our surroundings, we stop being open to new experiences and perspectives. In the spiritual realm, this can manifest as a lack of hunger for God’s Word, reduced prayer life, or diminished zeal for service.
Apostle Selman teaches that staying in a state of spiritual complacency due to familiarity can hinder our progress. Growth in faith requires intentional effort, reverence, and a willingness to constantly seek deeper revelations. Familiarity can block this desire and keep us stagnant.
Overcoming the Danger of Familiarity
Reignite the Awe for God and His Word
One of the most effective ways to combat the danger of familiarity is to reignite our awe for God and His Word. Apostle Joshua Selman encourages believers to return to the wonder and reverence they once had for spiritual things. This can be done through renewed prayer, worship, and personal reflection.
Taking time to revisit the Scriptures with a heart that is expectant can help restore the awe of God’s power and wisdom. Approaching prayer and worship with sincerity and gratitude also reopens the channels for the Holy Spirit to move in our lives.
Honoring Spiritual Leaders and Mentors
Another key way to avoid the danger of familiarity is to maintain a spirit of honor toward spiritual leaders. Apostle Selman often reminds us that honor is the key to unlocking spiritual blessings. Just as Jesus’ hometown missed out on miracles due to their lack of honor, we, too, can miss the blessings that come from our leaders if we fail to respect their anointing.
To avoid the trap of familiarity, believers should always honor and value the spiritual authorities in their lives. This includes following their teachings, respecting their guidance, and recognizing the unique role they play in God’s plan.
Cultivate a Spirit of Gratitude
Gratitude is another powerful antidote to the danger of familiarity. When we approach our relationships, our work, and our spiritual practices with a heart of gratitude, we can keep the freshness and vitality of those experiences. Apostle Selman suggests that expressing gratitude to God for His presence, blessings, and guidance helps maintain a posture of humility and reverence.
Being grateful for our spiritual leaders, the church community, and the Word of God keeps us aware of the significance of these elements in our lives and prevents them from becoming mundane or ordinary.
The danger of familiarity is a subtle but powerful force that can impact our spiritual lives, relationships, and personal growth. Apostle Joshua Selman’s teachings remind us that when we lose reverence and respect for the things of God, we risk missing out on the blessings and miracles He has for us. By maintaining awe for God, honoring spiritual leaders, and cultivating gratitude, we can avoid the pitfalls of familiarity and continue to experience the fullness of God’s presence in our lives.
As we walk in reverence and honor, we open ourselves to a deeper relationship with God, a more vibrant spiritual life, and a greater understanding of His will. Let us be mindful of the dangers of familiarity and remain vigilant in our pursuit of spiritual growth.