When The Fire Goes Out

WHEN THE FIRE GOES OUT

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Leviticus 6:12-13

Supporting Texts: 1 Samuel 3:1-3, Revelation 2:4-5, Matthew 25:1-13, 2 Timothy 1:6, Hosea 6:1-2

INTRODUCTION:

God commanded in Leviticus 6:13 that the fire on the altar must never go out. This instruction was both practical and symbolic—it signified that the presence of God, the passion for God, and the commitment to holiness must be sustained daily. The moment the fire goes out, darkness returns, and spiritual decay begins.

In today’s world, many believers and churches started with great zeal and burning passion, but over time, the fire has died down. Like Eli, who allowed the lamp of God to go out in the tabernacle, many have allowed the flame of God’s presence to fade in their lives and ministries.

The tragedy of a quenched fire is that it is not always immediately noticed. One can be busy with activities, yet lack the fire of intimacy, power, and genuine relationship with God. It is therefore critical that we understand the danger signs, the consequences, and the path to restoration when the fire goes out.

1. SIGNS THAT THE FIRE HAS GONE OUT

When the fire of God goes out in a person’s life, there are always noticeable signs—if we are spiritually sensitive.

a) Loss of spiritual appetite (Psalm 42:1-2):

You no longer hunger for prayer, the Word, or God’s presence.

b) Coldness in worship and devotion (John 4:23):

Your worship becomes routine, not relational.

c) Compromise and tolerance of sin (Romans 6:1-2):

What you once resisted, you now accommodate.

d) Dependence on past experiences, not present encounters (Exodus 33:15):

You talk more about “what God did” than “what God is doing.”

Biblical Example: In 1 Samuel 3:1-3, the lamp of God was going out under Eli's watch—symbolising spiritual decline.

2. DANGERS OF A QUENCHED ALTAR FIRE

Allowing the fire of God to go out is spiritually dangerous and leaves a believer exposed and powerless.

a) You lose sensitivity to the Holy Spirit (Isaiah 63:10):

When the fire is gone, the Spirit is grieved and distant.

b) Demonic oppression increases (Matthew 12:43-45):

The enemy finds room in a cold and empty vessel.

c) You become ineffective in service (2 Timothy 3:5):

Having a form of godliness but lacking the power thereof.

d) You miss divine opportunities and direction (Matthew 25:1-13):

The foolish virgins missed their moment because their lamps went out.

Biblical Example: Samson’s fire went out, and he did not even know it—until it was too late (Judges 16:20).

3. REASONS WHY THE FIRE GOES OUT

No fire dies without a cause. Understanding what quenches the fire helps us avoid spiritual dryness.

a) Neglect of personal altar and devotion (Mark 1:35):

When your quiet time with God is no longer a priority, the flame fades.

b) Over-familiarity with God’s presence (Malachi 1:6-7):

Treating sacred things casually kills reverence.

c) Hidden sin and guilt (Psalm 32:3-4):

Unconfessed sin separates us from the fire source.

d) Busyness with activities, neglecting intimacy (Luke 10:40-42):

Martha was busy, but Mary chose the better part—sitting with Jesus.

Biblical Example: The Laodicean church was lukewarm because they relied on material prosperity rather than spiritual fire (Revelation 3:14-17).

4. HOW TO REKINDLE THE FIRE ON YOUR ALTAR

It is never too late to restore the fire. God desires to ignite us afresh if we return to Him in humility.

a) Acknowledge your spiritual dryness (Revelation 2:4-5):

Recognise that the fire is gone and repent sincerely.

b) Return to your first love (Jeremiah 2:2):

Go back to the place of passionate pursuit and longing for God.

c) Rebuild your personal altar (Genesis 35:1-3):

Consistent prayer, Word study, fasting, and worship restore fire.

d) Ask for fresh fire and be intentional (Luke 11:13):

God gives the Holy Spirit to those who ask and seek diligently.

Biblical Example: After Peter failed and his fire seemed lost, Jesus restored him and reignited his passion at the shore (John 21:15-17).

CONCLUSION:

When the fire goes out, darkness prevails. Many have become spiritually dry, ineffective, and cold because they’ve allowed the fire to die. But God is merciful and ready to rekindle the flames if we are willing to return.

Don’t settle for spiritual emptiness. Don’t live on yesterday’s fire. It is time to cry out for fresh fire. The fire must never go out—not in your life, your home, or your ministry.

PRAYER POINTS:

1. Lord, ignite fresh fire on the altar of my heart.

2. Every sin or weight quenching my fire, be consumed by Your mercy.

3. I receive grace for consistent spiritual discipline and intimacy.

4. Father, restore my hunger and passion for Your presence.

5. Let the fire of revival begin in me and spread through me.

6. I reject spiritual dryness; I embrace fresh oil and fire.