BUILDING AND SUSTAINING A FAMILY ALTAR

Title: BUILDING AND SUSTAINING A FAMILY ALTAR

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Genesis 35:1-3
Supporting Texts: Joshua 24:15, Deuteronomy 6:6-7, Psalm 127:1

INTRODUCTION:
A family altar is a sacred time and space dedicated to worshipping God as a family. It is a means of strengthening the spiritual foundation of the home, fostering unity, and passing the faith to the next generation. In Scripture, patriarchs like Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob prioritised family worship, ensuring that God remained central to their household. In today’s fast-paced world, building and sustaining a family altar is vital for spiritual growth and protection.

1. WHAT IS A FAMILY ALTAR?

a) Definition of a Family Altar
A family altar is a designated time for families to gather for prayer, Bible reading, and worship (Joshua 24:15).

b) Purpose of a Family Altar
It creates a spiritual environment where God's presence dwells and His word is taught (Psalm 127:1).

c) Biblical Importance
God commands parents to teach His word diligently to their children (Deuteronomy 6:6-7).

d) Role of the Family Altar
It fosters unity, builds faith, and provides spiritual covering for the household.

e) Biblical Example: Abraham consistently built altars for worship with his household (Genesis 12:7, 18:19).

2. THE BENEFITS OF A FAMILY ALTAR

a) Spiritual Growth and Stability
Families grow stronger in faith and remain grounded in God's word (Colossians 3:16).

b) Unity and Love in the Home
Regular worship promotes harmony and peace among family members (Psalm 133:1).

c) Divine Guidance and Protection
God's presence at the family altar brings direction and shields the family from evil (Psalm 91:1-2).

d) Legacy of Faith
The family altar passes the knowledge of God to future generations (2 Timothy 1:5).

e) Biblical Example: Job regularly prayed and offered sacrifices on behalf of his family (Job 1:5).

3. HOW TO BUILD A FAMILY ALTAR

a) Dedicate a Time and Place
Choose a specific time and quiet location for daily family worship (Ecclesiastes 3:1).

b) Prioritise Prayer and Worship
Engage in heartfelt prayers, worship songs, and thanksgiving (Psalm 95:6-7).

c) Study the Word of God Together
Read and discuss the Bible to teach and learn God's principles (Deuteronomy 6:6-7).

d) Involve Every Family Member
Encourage participation by assigning roles such as prayer, reading, or singing (1 Corinthians 14:26).

e) Biblical Example: Cornelius led his household in seeking God, and they experienced divine visitation (Acts 10:1-4).

4. HOW TO SUSTAIN A FAMILY ALTAR

a) Be Consistent and Disciplined
Establish a regular routine for family worship and stick to it (Daniel 6:10).

b) Make It Spiritually Engaging
Use creative ways like storytelling, hymns, or devotionals to keep worship lively (Psalm 98:4).

c) Pray for Grace and Commitment
Ask God for the strength and discipline to sustain the family altar (Philippians 4:13).

d) Overcome Distractions and Challenges
Prioritise the altar by removing time-wasters and maintaining focus (Matthew 6:33).

e) Biblical Example: Jacob called his family to renew their commitment to God and build an altar at Bethel (Genesis 35:1-3).

5. SPIRITUAL IMPACT OF A FAMILY ALTAR

a) Protection Against Evil
A praying family remains under God’s shield against spiritual attacks (Isaiah 54:17).

b) Empowerment for Each Member
Every family member becomes spiritually strong and equipped for life (Ephesians 6:10-18).

c) Revival in the Home and Community
The fire from a family altar can ignite broader spiritual revival (Acts 2:42-47).

d) Fulfilment of God's Purpose
Families align with God's will and become vessels of His kingdom (Romans 8:28).

e) Biblical Example: Joshua declared his household’s commitment to serve the Lord, impacting their destiny (Joshua 24:15).

CONCLUSION:
A family altar is the foundation for building a godly home. It strengthens relationships, aligns the family with God’s purpose, and ensures a legacy of faith for future generations. Let us rise today and make family worship a priority, building altars that glorify God and transform lives.

PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, help us to build a family altar that honours Your name.

2. Father, strengthen our family bond through daily fellowship with You.

3. Holy Spirit, guide us to teach our children Your ways faithfully.

4. Lord, remove every distraction that hinders our family worship.

5. Father, let Your presence dwell mightily in our home.

6. Lord, empower every family member to be committed to the altar.

7. Father, may our family altar be a source of divine encounters.

8. Lord, protect our family from every attack of the enemy.

9. Father, let the fire on our family altar never go out.

10. Lord, make our family a light to the world through our devotion to You.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:
1. Your family altar will be a place of divine encounters and revelations.

2. The fire of God will continually burn in your home.

3. Your children will grow to love and serve the Lord all their days.

4. No weapon fashioned against your family will prosper.

5. Your family will be a model of unity, peace, and godliness.

6. The Lord will use your family to impact generations for His glory.

7. Every member of your household will walk in divine purpose and favour.

8. Your family altar will produce testimonies of God’s power and presence.

9. The Lord will shield your family from all forms of evil.

10. Your home will remain a dwelling place of God’s Spirit and grace.