Maintaining The Fire On The Altar

MAINTAINING THE FIRE ON THE ALTAR

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Leviticus 6:12-13

Supporting Texts: Romans 12:11, 2 Timothy 1:6, Hebrews 12:29, Revelation 3:15-16, Matthew 25:1-13

INTRODUCTION:

The fire on the altar symbolises spiritual fervency, passion, and the abiding presence of God. When God calls us into intimacy, He also expects us to steward that intimacy by maintaining the fire. It is possible to start on fire for God and later grow cold if the altar is neglected.

In Leviticus 6:12-13, God gave specific instructions that the fire on the altar must never go out. This was not just about a literal flame but a spiritual principle—God desires continual fellowship, not seasonal visitation. The fire must be watched, fed, and protected.

In our day, distractions, sin, complacency, and the pressures of life often attempt to quench the fire on our altars. Therefore, it becomes our responsibility to feed the flame, guard the altar, and ensure we remain spiritually alive and vibrant.

1. THE FIRE MUST BE DAILY MAINTAINED

God’s instruction is clear—the fire must burn continually. It is not a once-a-week activity but a daily pursuit.

a) A fresh offering must be laid every day (Leviticus 6:12):

Each day demands a fresh surrender and devotion to God. Yesterday’s fire is not sufficient for today.

b) Devotion must be intentional and regular (Psalm 5:3):

David said, "In the morning, O LORD, You will hear my voice." Daily time with God sustains the fire.

c) The wood must not run out (Leviticus 6:12):

Wood represents the Word, worship, and prayer. We must continually fuel the fire with these.

d) The ashes must be removed (Leviticus 6:10-11):

Old ashes of past sins, hurts, or glory must be cleared to make room for fresh fire.

Biblical Example: The priests in the Old Testament rose early to tend the altar daily, ensuring God’s presence remained with Israel.

2. THE FIRE IS A SIGN OF GOD'S ACCEPTANCE AND PRESENCE

Without fire, the altar becomes a dead place. The fire signifies divine approval and communion.

a) God responds to genuine sacrifice with fire (1 Kings 18:38):

When Elijah prayed, fire fell, showing God’s presence and approval.

b) Fire represents God’s consuming nature (Hebrews 12:29):

God desires all of us—our heart, soul, mind, and strength.

c) Without fire, our service is religious and powerless (2 Timothy 3:5):

A form of godliness without power is a result of a quenched altar.

d) Lukewarmness invites divine displeasure (Revelation 3:15-16):

God will rather we are hot or cold, not lukewarm.

Biblical Example: Nadab and Abihu offered strange fire (Leviticus 10:1-2) and were consumed. God is particular about how we tend His fire.

3. THE FIRE IS PERSONAL BEFORE IT IS PUBLIC

Before you can influence others, your personal altar must first be ablaze.

a) Stir up the gift within you (2 Timothy 1:6):

No one else can maintain your fire for you. It is your responsibility to fan it into flame.

b) Personal revival precedes corporate revival (Acts 2:1-4):

The fire came upon individuals before it became a church movement.

c) Spiritual leaders must first burn before lighting others (Romans 12:11):

Be fervent in spirit, serving the Lord. Passion is contagious.

d) The fire spreads from heart to heart (Luke 24:32):

“Did not our hearts burn within us?” Intimacy creates impact.

Biblical Example: Jesus often withdrew to a solitary place to pray. His private fire empowered His public ministry.

4. KEEPING THE FIRE ALIVE IN A COLD WORLD

In a world full of distractions and spiritual decay, we must be vigilant to guard our fire.

a) Avoid what quenches the Spirit (1 Thessalonians 5:19):

Sin, bitterness, worldly distractions, and disobedience will smother the flame.

b) Surround yourself with other burning believers (Proverbs 27:17):

Iron sharpens iron. Company influences fire.

c) Protect your secret place (Matthew 6:6):

Your closet is your altar. Guard it from busyness and excuses.

d) Be watchful and ready always (Matthew 25:1-13):

The wise virgins had oil and were ready when the Bridegroom came.

Biblical Example: The five foolish virgins allowed their lamps to go out due to carelessness. Their neglect cost them access.

CONCLUSION:

The fire on the altar is not sustained by emotion but by discipline, intentionality, and spiritual hunger. When the fire burns continuously, it becomes a symbol of our love and hunger for God. Let the flames on your altar testify daily that your heart is still burning for God.

We are called to be burning and shining lights in a dark world. Let us tend our altars faithfully, so the fire never dies. A burning altar equals a vibrant life in the Spirit.

PRAYER POINTS:

1. Lord, rekindle the fire on my personal altar.

2. Help me to remain spiritually fervent and not grow cold.

3. Every strange fire in my life, be extinguished in Jesus’ name.