March 18, 2019: 2 Chronicles 7; 1 Kings 9.

Spring is almost here and to many, that means fires – campfires and grilling. I do look forward to a juicy hamburger fresh off the grill.

A fire was important in the Old Testament times. They didn’t have matches. They kept coals and carried them wherever they went.

Genesis 22:7, “…Here is the fire and the wood…” Modern English Version

The fire on the altar in the Tabernacle was “Holy Fire.” Adab and Nabihu died when they used it incorrectly, (see Leviticus 10:1-7).

God instructed Moses to keep the fire on the altar burning perpetually. It was never to go out. They carried the coals when they traveled.

Leviticus 6:13, “Keep the fire burning on the Altar continually. It must not go out.” The Message

Why was this fire holy? God started it!

Leviticus 9:24, “Fire blazed out from God and consumed the Whole-Burnt-Offering and the fat pieces on the Altar. When all the people saw it happen they cheered loudly and then fell down, bowing in reverence.” The Message

When Solomon completed the Temple, God sent fresh fire. I’m sure there were still coals from the original fire in the Tabernacle. But God sent lightning to consume the sacrifice all at once.

2 Chronicles 7:1, “When Solomon finished praying, a bolt of lightning out of heaven struck the Whole-Burnt-Offering and sacrifices and the Glory of God filled the Temple.” The Message

When God starts a fire in you, it is easy to sacrifice. We need to fan the flames and feed that fire. It is our responsibility to keep the fire burning. But God is gracious, occasionally He sends fresh fire.

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