Years ago I worked in a gym, and music was played all day long. At first, unable to ignore the songs, I listened to every one. However, as time passed and the songs became more and more familiar, hours would pass before I’d realize music was still playing.
Fresh out of college I worked in a high-rise and I recall hearing the first fire alarm; it was loud and I immediately moved when that siren went off even though I knew it might just be a drill. After many years at this job, when the alarm sounded, I continued my phone conversation with a customer for sometime before exiting the building. I had become desensitized.
I find it fascinating that Jesus talks about being desensitized in the Bible. “So I tell you, every sin and blasphemy can be forgiven—except blasphemy against the Holy Spirit, which will never be forgiven,” (Matthew 12:30). It’s not a sin against another person, it’s not murder, and it’s not cheating on your spouse. It’s a rejection of the third person of the Godhead, the Holy Spirit, that Jesus calls the greatest sin. Ignoring the warning bells that are being sent your way is the greatest sin.
Still Small Voice
We start off innocently ignoring the Holy Spirit in small things, and after years of doing it, we reach the place where we can no longer hear the still, small voice.
The Holy Spirit was sent to strengthen us, comfort us, and convict us of sin (see John 16:8). When we step too close to sin, the Holy Spirit pricks our consciences telling us to back away.
God so loved us that He sent His only Son to die for our sins and He gave the Holy Spirit to convict us of our sins. We simply need to listen to His nudging. The choices we make, the responses we give, the life we live, good or bad, will be accounted for. Why not tune your hearing to God’s Spirit and not risk becoming desensitized to Him!
