Brief Summary
This video discusses six reasons why altars may not be effective, despite the common misconception that altars themselves are legalistic or demonic. The core message is that the power of an altar comes from the relationship with God, not the altar itself. The reasons include not knowing God, pride, rituals, idolatry, sin and inconsistency.
- Knowing God is essential for effective prayer and altar work.
- Pride, rituals, idolatry, sin and inconsistency hinder the power of an altar.
- Consistent engagement with the word of God is vital for spiritual growth and powerful prayer.
Introduction
The video addresses common questions about altars and continues a series on prayer. It aims to explain why altars may not be working for some people, despite the misconception that altars are legalistic or demonic. The speaker notes that the misuse and misunderstanding of altars can make them seem ineffective or even harmful. Many people seek quick fixes or tokens instead of engaging in the hard work of prayer, leading to problems.
Knowing the God of the Altar
The first reason altars may not work is a lack of knowledge of the God of the altar. It's not the altar itself that works, but the God behind it. Knowing God involves understanding His character, what pleases Him, and how He communicates. The Bible is described as God's word and essential for understanding Him. Reading and internalising the Bible allows God to dwell within, guiding actions and decisions. Those who truly know God will be strong and do mighty exploits.
The Importance of Reading the Bible
The speaker emphasises the importance of reading the Bible to know God, stating that the Bible is God's word and essential for understanding Him. Reading the Bible helps one understand God's character and how He interacts with people. The speaker shares a personal testimony of how seeking God through prayer and scripture helped resolve a domestic issue, highlighting the power of knowing God and acting on that knowledge.
Pride
Pride is identified as another reason why altars may not be effective. Even after experiencing spiritual victories or answered prayers, one should approach God with humility. Pride in one's spiritual accomplishments or the altar itself can hinder the power of prayer. The speaker encourages yielding to God and avoiding pride, recognising that it is God who works miracles, not the altar itself.
Rituals and Idolatry
Pride often leads to empty rituals, where people focus on specific times or methods of prayer rather than genuine connection with God. The speaker warns against idolatry, which involves replacing God with other things, such as men of God, church programmes, or specific practices. God is a jealous God, and idolatry can hinder the effectiveness of the altar.
Sin
Living in perpetual sin is a significant barrier to effective prayer. Prayer is not a "sanitiser" for a sinful lifestyle. One must strive for repentance and turn away from sin to experience the power of the altar. Overcoming personal struggles and sins increases the power of prayer.
Inconsistency
Inconsistency in prayer and devotion gives the devil a foothold. Prayer is not just about talking but about showing up and surrendering to God. Consistent worship and spending time in God's presence are essential for fuelling the altar. The speaker encourages listeners to get tired of constantly seeking help from others and instead develop their own relationship with God through consistent prayer and devotion.
Final Thoughts and Encouragement
The speaker encourages listeners to push through obstacles and connect with God, emphasising that reading the Bible is a powerful form of spiritual warfare. She shares that she often reads scriptures without formulating specific prayers, allowing God to work through His word. The speaker concludes by announcing that the next video will discuss protocols in prayer.
