Introduction

Abraham, formerly known as Abram, was called by the Lord to leave his idolatrous ways in the Ur of the Chaldeans and embark on a journey of faith. Throughout his life, Abraham became a father of faith and a close friend of God. He built four altars along this journey, each representing a significant phase in our own Christian lives.

The Altar of Promise (Genesis 12:5-7)

In the midst of his enemies, Abraham built an altar to commemorate the promises of God. Despite facing resistance from the enemy, we can trust that what God seals at His throne will not only survive but also thrive. Our faith is tested to strengthen and perfect us, and even though we may feel abandoned during these tests, we must hold onto the promises of God, for they are certain and trustworthy.

The Altar of Intimacy (Genesis 12:8)

Abraham built an altar to deepen his intimacy with the Lord. It was a place where he grew in familiarity and developed a personal relationship with God. Our faith should not solely rely on formulas or slogans but should be born out of an intimate walk with God. As we grow closer to Him, our lives will have a greater impact on those around us.

The Altar of No Return (Genesis 13:3-4)

After a detour to Egypt driven by fear and weakness, Abraham built an altar to restore his commitment to God. This altar symbolized his decision to never again wander from God's purposes. While trials and stumbling may still occur, once we establish an altar of no return in God's presence, we will be anchored in His will and not easily swayed by other interests.

The Altar of Possession (Genesis 13:17-18)

Abraham built an altar to claim the land that God had promised him. This altar represented the transition from having a promise to possessing it. Similarly, we should not merely live from one prophecy to another but experience the fulfillment of God's promises in our lives.

Conclusion

The altar is a transformative place where our lives can be altered. Just as Abraham built these four altars, we too should establish our own altars of promise, intimacy, no return, and possession. By surrendering ourselves as living sacrifices on these altars, we can experience the fullness of God's plan for our lives. So, let us build our altars today and lay ourselves before the Lord as a pleasing sacrifice.

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