Grace World Outreach Church
Day 5
Fresh Fire on the Altar
By: Donnie Lewis
“The fire on the altar shall be kept burning on it; it shall not go
out. The priest shall burn wood on it every morning, and he shall
arrange the burnt offering on it and shall burn on it the fat of the
peace offerings. Fire shall be kept burning on the altar
continually; it shall not go out.” (Leviticus 6:12–13, ESV)
In Scripture, God commanded that the fire on the altar be kept burning day and night. It was never to go out, not even for a moment. The fire was originally lit by God Himself (Leviticus 9:24). It symbolized His presence and His acceptance of the sacrifice. God started the fire, but it was the priest’s responsibility to keep it burning.
That is still true for us today. At salvation, Christ ignites a spiritual fire in our hearts, a passion for His presence, a hunger for His Word, and a desire for His purpose. But once that fire is lit, it becomes our daily duty to keep it burning. The flame that God starts, we must sustain.
“Every morning, the priest is to add firewood.” That means being consistent. Every morning, not just when he felt inspired or when it was convenient, but every single day. The priest couldn’t rely on yesterday’s fire for today’s offering. Likewise, yesterday’s prayer, worship, or encounter cannot sustain us for today’s challenges. Fresh fire requires fresh fuel.
What is firewood for us today? It’s time in God’s presence. It’s daily worship, prayer, and time in His Word. It’s obedience and service. Each act of devotion is a piece of wood that feeds our flame of faith.
When we neglect these things, our spiritual fire begins to dim. Our passion and joy fade and weaken, and the altar of our heart grows cold. But when we faithfully add fuel to our spiritual life, our hearts remain alive with His presence.
Let’s look at the phrase, “The fire must be kept burning continuously.” This isn’t about short bursts of enthusiasm; it’s about steady endurance. Many people start strong but lose their fire when life gets difficult or routine. God calls us to cultivate a long-lasting flame that endures trials, distractions, and long seasons of waiting. The fire on the altar is not emotional hype but faithful devotion.
Also, the fire was not private but visible. It was a sign to the whole community that God’s presence still dwelt among them. In the same way, when the fire of the Holy Spirit burns in us, others should see it. Our lives become a living testimony that God is real and active in our world.
I want to challenge you today. Check the fire on your altar. Has the flame diminished? Have the ashes of busyness, weariness, or compromise smothered your fire? God’s not asking you to restart the fire in your own strength. He is simply calling you to bring the wood, add the fuel, and come back to the altar.
Reflection:
- What does the fire of the altar represent in your personal walk with God?
- Are there any ashes (distractions, sin, or discouragement) that need to be cleared away so the flame can burn bright again?
- How can your spiritual fire become a visible witness to others around you this week?
Prayer:
Lord, thank You for lighting the fire of Your presence in my heart. Forgive me for the times I’ve let it grow dim. Today, I bring fresh wood; my worship, time, obedience, and place it all before You. Keep my heart burning with steady devotion. Let Your fire within me be a light that draws others to You. In Jesus’ name, amen.