Build An Altar In Times Of Trouble
“The Lord said to Abram after Lot had parted from him, “Look around from where you are, to the north and south, to the east and west. All the land that you see I will give to you and your offspring forever. I will make your offspring like the dust of the earth, so that if anyone could count the dust, then your offspring could be counted. Go, walk through the length and breadth of the land, for I am giving it to you.” So Abram went to live near the great trees of Mamre at Hebron, where he pitched his tents. There he built an altar to the Lord. – Genesis 13:14-18
In the Canaanite culture, the typical way of expressing religious devotion was to make sacrifices at an altar to pagan gods. However, Abram built new altars to sacrifice to the one true living God. Throughout his journey, Abram built four altars to pray and get closer to God.
Abram knew that God would supply his needs. And God, keeping his promise, gave Abram enough land for him and his descendants. Abram shows us that when we rely on God and not our own resources, strength, and ego, He can enlarge our territory, as well as that of our offspring.
If we are honest, it can be difficult to trust God, especially in challenging times. The temptation when difficulties arise is to become depressed and discouraged because of the tension and the stress that often ensues.
However, God wants us to hand every situation—the good and the bad— over to Him. It does not matter what issues you face in life— faith, family, finances, or health. The difficulties you encounter, the problems you navigate, and the conflicts you face, can only rob you of your joy if you allow them.
Trust God and don’t worry. And while you wait, build an altar, and continue worshipping Him. Because time spent with God is never wasted!
In the Canaanite culture, the typical way of expressing religious devotion was to make sacrifices at an altar to pagan gods. However, Abram built new altars to sacrifice to the one true living God. Throughout his journey, Abram built four altars to pray and get closer to God.
Abram knew that God would supply his needs. And God, keeping his promise, gave Abram enough land for him and his descendants. Abram shows us that when we rely on God and not our own resources, strength, and ego, He can enlarge our territory, as well as that of our offspring.
If we are honest, it can be difficult to trust God, especially in challenging times. The temptation when difficulties arise is to become depressed and discouraged because of the tension and the stress that often ensues.
However, God wants us to hand every situation—the good and the bad— over to Him. It does not matter what issues you face in life— faith, family, finances, or health. The difficulties you encounter, the problems you navigate, and the conflicts you face, can only rob you of your joy if you allow them.
Trust God and don’t worry. And while you wait, build an altar, and continue worshipping Him. Because time spent with God is never wasted!
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