Breaking Faith Barriers: How Our Perceptions Block Miracles

Genesis 46-47; Mark 6; Job 6

Have you ever heard the phrase, “Familiarity breeds contempt?” When we believe we’ve accurately assessed someone or something negatively, it’s amazing how our reality will bend to match our negative perception.

I’m a big fan of this show called Married at First Sight. It’s a reality TV program where experts match participants with a partner. The twist? They meet for the first time at the altar and decide after eight weeks whether to stay married or divorce. It’s a fascinating study of human nature—how our own insecurities and desires color our perceptions. We don’t see things as they are; we see them as we are.

As a pastor, I find it intriguing to hear how differently people perceive the same church environment. Some visitors describe our church as the friendliest place they’ve ever been, where everyone is loving, kind, and eager to connect. Meanwhile, others might find the atmosphere cold and distant. These observations likely reveal more about our internal state than the reality of the church itself.

Let’s delve into two passages from Mark 6 that underscore this phenomenon.

Mark 6:1-6
Jesus returned to His hometown with His disciples. On the Sabbath, He began to teach in the synagogue. Many listeners were astonished and skeptical about the source of His wisdom and the miracles He performed. “Isn’t this the carpenter? The son of Mary and brother of James, Joses, Judas, and Simon? Aren’t His sisters here with us?” they questioned, taking offense at Him. Jesus remarked, “A prophet is not without honor, except in his hometown, among his relatives, and in his own household.” Consequently, He could perform only a few miracles there due to their unbelief.

This passage highlights a profound truth: offense can block the flow of God’s power. Whether in our church services, marriages, or friendships, harboring offense can halt a move of God. If it hindered Jesus, it will hinder us.

Mark 6:53-56
After crossing over to Gennesaret, people immediately recognized Jesus as soon as He disembarked. They rushed to bring all their sick to Him, hoping even to touch the fringe of His garment. Everyone who did was healed.

Notice the stark contrast in reception and outcomes based on the people’s heart posture.

Today, let’s embrace this reality: the full potential of God’s presence is among us! The glory of God envelops us. He is here, right now. As we engage wholeheartedly, remember, we can experience as much of God as we desire.

I want the Lord to fulfill all His intentions—His desires to heal, restore, deliver, and provide. Let’s agree together and say, “Yes, Lord. Do it here. Do it in my family. Do it in our city.” We hold no offense toward You or each other.

Deepening Faith: Reflective Journal Prompt

Reflect on a time when your perception of a situation or a person was clouded by your own emotions or past experiences. How did this perception influence your behavior and the outcome of the situation? In light of the teachings from Mark 6, consider what steps you can take to ensure that your current mindset aligns more closely with an objective understanding of God’s truth, rather than your subjective feelings. What practical actions can you take to minimize personal bias in your judgments and interactions?

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