What does the "fire must be kept burning" symbolize in our spiritual walk? Setting the Scene in Leviticus 6:12-13 “The fire on the altar shall be kept burning; it must not go out. Every morning the priest is to add firewood… The fire must be kept burning continuously on the altar; it must not go out.” Why God Required a Never-Ending Flame • A visible reminder that the Lord Himself had kindled the original fire (Leviticus 9:24). • An ongoing witness to His constant presence among His people (Exodus 29:42-46). • A picture of uninterrupted sacrifice and worship—Israel’s entire life was to revolve around God. What the Ever-Burning Fire Pictures in Our Walk • Continuous Devotion – Just as priests added wood daily, we nurture our relationship with Christ day by day (Luke 9:23). – Romans 12:11: “Do not let your zeal subside; keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.” • Unceasing Prayer – Incense rose from the altar while the fire burned (Psalm 141:2). – 1 Thessalonians 5:17-19 links “pray without ceasing” with “do not extinguish the Spirit.” • Ongoing Surrender – Sacrifices were consumed completely; nothing held back (Romans 12:1). – We continually place every area of life on God’s altar—thoughts, ambitions, possessions. • The Indwelling Spirit’s Flame – Acts 2:3 pictures the Spirit as tongues of fire. – Ephesians 4:30 warns not to grieve Him; our obedience keeps His flame bright. • Fervent Love for God and Others – Song of Songs 8:6: “Love is a burning flame, the very flame of the LORD.” – John 13:35: authentic discipleship is proven by active, warmhearted love. Practical Ways to “Add Wood” Daily 1. Start each morning with Scripture, letting truth feed the flame (Psalm 5:3). 2. Speak often with the Lord throughout the day, not just in set times (Colossians 4:2). 3. Gather regularly with believers—corporate worship is communal fuel (Hebrews 10:24-25). 4. Confess sin promptly; unrepented sin dampens the fire (Psalm 66:18). 5. Serve others sacrificially—acts of obedience fan the embers into blaze (Galatians 5:13). Encouragement for Weary Hearts If the fire seems low, remember: the source is God Himself. Return to Him, bring fresh “wood,” trust His Spirit to rekindle zeal. As Paul told Timothy, “Fan into flame the gift of God that is in you” (2 Timothy 1:6). The Lord who commanded “the fire must not go out” also supplies everything needed to keep it burning. |
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