ALTAR OF THANKSGIVING AND PRAISE By: Major.  Frank Materu

Main Scripture:

"Whoever offers a sacrifice of thanksgiving glorifies Me, and to him who orders his way rightly, I will show the salvation of God."

– Psalm 50:23


Introduction

Thanksgiving is a sacred act that opens the doors to blessings, victory, and spiritual protection. As believers, we are called not only to praise God with our lips but also to glorify Him through a lifestyle of gratitude and praise.

These sacrifices of thanksgiving and praise carry unique power to usher in God’s presence and overcome the schemes of the enemy.


In this article, we will explore the importance of building an altar of thanksgiving and praise, the power of a grateful heart, and how to live a life that consistently glorifies God.


1. Thanksgiving: The Secret to Inviting God’s Presence

Thanksgiving is not merely a physical action but a spiritual act of worship that draws us closer to God.


When we give thanks with a sincere heart, we proclaim His greatness and overpower every fear and attack of the enemy.


“I will bless the Lord at all times;


His praise shall continually be in my mouth.” – Psalm 34:1

Why is Thanksgiving Important?


  1. Thanksgiving strengthens our faith and trust in God.
  2. It eliminates complaints, which can open doors for the enemy.
  3. It makes us living witnesses of God’s goodness to others.

Practical Step:

Reflect daily on the blessings God has bestowed upon you and lift Him up in thanksgiving and praise.


2. Praise: Victory Against the Enemy

Praise is a powerful weapon against spiritual enemies.


When you praise God even in challenging situations, you declare your faith that He is greater than your circumstances.


“Shout for joy in the Lord, O you righteous! Praise befits the upright.” – Psalm 33:1


The Consequences of Neglecting Praise:

  1. Weakens our relationship with God.
  2. Creates room for fear and anxiety to take hold.

The Power of Praise:

  1. Dispels fear and ushers in God’s peace.
  2. Secures victory by exalting God above our challenges.


Biblical Example:

When Paul and Silas praised God in prison, their chains were broken (Acts 16:25-26).



3. Cultivating a Lifestyle of Thanksgiving and Praise

Developing a habit of gratitude and praise requires daily discipline.


It is a way of life that keeps us faithful to God, even amid trials.


“There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear.


For fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not been perfected in love.” – 1 John 4:18


Key Steps to Build an Altar of Thanksgiving:

  1. Reflect on Your Blessings: Every morning, identify things you are grateful for.
  2. Offer Sacrifices of Praise: Dedicate moments to thank God, even in tough times.
  3. Share with Others: Testify of God’s goodness to inspire others.
  4. Seek the Holy Spirit’s Guidance: Allow God to reveal areas in your life that need transformation for your praises to be pure.


4. Dying to Self: The Path to Glory

Living a life of gratitude requires dying to our selfish desires.


When we place God first, we become content with His blessings without murmuring.


“Through Him, then, let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that acknowledge His name.” – Hebrews 13:15


The Blessing of Surrender:

Jesus gave His life for us so we could have eternal life.


Likewise, when we surrender ourselves to God’s service, we glorify Him and impact others positively.


A Life of Service:

God used Jesus to teach us the importance of living for others.


This is an invitation to live for God’s glory and not for personal gain.

Conclusion

Thanksgiving and praise are the foundations of a victorious Christian life.


By building an altar of gratitude, we invite God’s presence into our lives, overcome fear and anxiety, and prevail against the enemy’s attacks.


Remember, God has not called you to change the entire world but to be a testimony of transformation in your immediate environment.


Commit to cultivating a heart of thanksgiving and praise daily, and you will witness God’s mighty works in and through your life.


“Upon You I have leaned from before my birth; You are He who took me from my mother’s womb. My praise is continually of You.” – Psalm 71:6


May the Lord bless you as you live a life of thanksgiving and praise!