“…Pull down your father’s altar to Baal…” – Judges 6:25 (NLT)
In many families, conflict often arises over responsibilities like caregiving or shared expenses. These reactions may stem from ‘altars’ built over time – behaviour patterns rooted in control, blame, or avoidance. Judges 6:25–26 shows God instructing Gideon to tear down his father’s altar to Baal and build one for the Lord, symbolising a break from destructive cycles.
The caution to Gideon was a caution to the Israelites. They had built the Tabernacle, received laws, and were led by God through a pillar of cloud and fire. Despite witnessing miracles, they often rebelled, including worshiping a golden calf. Their disobedience led to forty years of wandering until a new generation entered Canaan under Joshua. After his death, Israel lacked central leadership and fell into cycles of sin, oppression, repentance, and deliverance.
Like the instruction to Gideon, God is calling us to examine the spiritual foundations we’ve inherited or created. Are we fostering peace or perpetuating strife? Reflect on how you handle differing opinions, resolve disputes, and prioritise relationships. God desires that we build altars of grace, unity, and His glory in our families.
Make it a matter of prayer to build the right altars around, including:
- Family time of fellowship with God
- Family unit and a show of affection
- Respect for ideas different than ours and reconciliation after conflict
- Mindset of perseverance and excellence
- Mindset of curiosity and openness to change
- Financial stewardship and well-being
- Family legacy of service to God and others
- (You add others and write them down)
As you pray throughout today, ask God to manifest altars of worship to Him in your life and family so that “whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God” – 1 Corinthians 10:31 (KJV).
Read: Hebrews 13:15-16; Romans 12:1
Bible Reading Guide: Psalm 72; Acts 7:20-43; 2 Samuel 16:15-23; 2 Samuel 17; 2 Samuel 18:1-18