In what ways can we "build the altar" in our daily lives? Setting the Scene: Elijah’s Restored Altar “Then Elijah said to all the people, ‘Come near to me.’ So all the people approached him, and he repaired the altar of the LORD that had been torn down.” (1 Kings 18:30) Why an Altar Matters • In Scripture, an altar is where worship, sacrifice, and covenant meet. • Restoring the altar on Mount Carmel signaled a return to wholehearted devotion after years of compromise. • Today, we no longer bring animal sacrifices (Hebrews 10:10), yet God still calls for a living sacrifice—our very lives (Romans 12:1). • “Building the altar” becomes a daily decision to make every part of life a place of worship. Daily Practices That Build the Altar • Fresh surrender every morning – “Present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual service of worship.” (Romans 12:1) – Begin the day by verbally yielding plans, ambitions, and anxieties to the Lord. • Consistent Scripture intake – “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” (Psalm 119:105) – Schedule unhurried time to read, meditate, and obey. • Private worship and thanksgiving – “Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise.” (Hebrews 13:15) – Sing, speak gratitude aloud, or journal praises to keep the heart aflame. • Confession and cleansing – “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us.” (1 John 1:9) – Treat repentance not as occasional crisis management but a normal rhythm. • Intentional obedience in the ordinary – “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord.” (Colossians 3:23) – See chores, meetings, and errands as offerings laid on the altar when done unto Him. • Generous giving – “Honor the LORD with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your harvest.” (Proverbs 3:9) – Budget to prioritize tithes, offerings, and charitable acts, reflecting that all resources belong to God. • Intercession for others – “I urge that petitions, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgiving be offered for everyone.” (1 Timothy 2:1) – Keep a list or digital reminder; lift names throughout the day as spiritual incense. Overcoming Common Obstacles • Busyness: schedule worship the way you schedule appointments. • Distraction: silence notifications, designate a quiet space. • Discouragement: recall past faithfulness; reread testimonies of God’s provision. Living Testimony: The Witness of a Repaired Altar • When family and coworkers see peace, joy, and integrity, they glimpse the fire God still sends on prepared sacrifices (1 Kings 18:38). • A tended altar draws others to “fall facedown and say, ‘The LORD, He is God!’” (v. 39). Conclusion: Keep the Stones in Place Daily habits of surrender, Scripture, worship, confession, obedience, generosity, and intercession stack like stones, forming a sturdy altar. As Elijah repaired Israel’s broken altar, so we, by God’s grace, rebuild and maintain one in the heart—inviting His presence, honoring His name, and shining His glory in every sphere of life. |
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