Daily Verse
January 22, 2026
Mark 6:4 ESV
And Jesus said to them, “A prophet is not without honor, except in his hometown and among his relatives and in his own household.”
Jesus’ words in Mark 6:4 reveal a sobering reality: faithfulness to God’s calling does not guarantee affirmation—especially from those who know us best. Familiarity can dull spiritual perception, and proximity can breed skepticism. Even Jesus, perfect in wisdom and power, faced resistance where acceptance seemed most natural.
For believers who serve in teaching or other visible ministries, this passage corrects our expectations. Effectiveness in ministry must not be measured by applause, affirmation, or acceptance, but by obedience to God’s call. Rejection is not always a sign of failure; often it is the cost of faithfulness.
How this should shape our approach:
Anchor identity in calling, not approval. Teachers and leaders must draw confidence from God’s commissioning, not from human recognition—especially when criticism comes from familiar voices.
Serve with humility, not defensiveness. Resistance can tempt us to prove ourselves. Jesus models restraint—he does not argue for honor but continues in obedience.
Remain faithful even when misunderstood. God often advances His purposes through perseverance, not popularity.
Guard the heart from discouragement. Rejection, particularly from those close to us, can wound deeply. This passage invites ministers to entrust their reputation to God.
Go where faith is welcomed, without bitterness. Jesus continued to teach elsewhere. Wisdom includes knowing when to persist and when to move forward.
Ultimately, Mark 6:4 reminds visible servants of God that faithfulness precedes fruitfulness. The call is not to be honored, but to be obedient—and God remains faithful to use those who serve Him with perseverance, humility, and trust, even in the face of rejection.