NO RESPECT FOR THE ALTAR

A Deep Thoughts Devotional Story
© Opeyemi Akintunde
As Inspired by the LIVING WORD

Tolu sat in a church meeting, scrolling through her phone while her pastor shared new ministry plans. When he finished, she raised her hand and said bluntly, “Sir, with all due respect, that idea doesn’t make sense.”

The room went silent. Her tone had cut deeper than she realized.

Later that night, as she prayed, she felt a nudge in her heart. “You dishonored My servant.”

Startled, she argued, “But Lord, I was only being honest!”
And the gentle voice replied, “Honesty without honor is rebellion. You cannot claim to love Me and despise those I’ve placed over you.”

Tolu broke down in tears. She remembered how often she had criticized her pastor, laughed at the choir lead, or ignored the usher’s instructions. Yet, these were people serving God, not for fame or wealth, but from obedience and love.

The next Sunday, she went to her pastor’s office. “Sir,” she said quietly, “I spoke harshly the other day. Please forgive me.” He smiled warmly, “God bless you, Tolu. That’s a heart after Him.”

That day, peace filled her heart, a peace she hadn’t felt in months.

Friend, we live in a time when respect for spiritual authority is fading fast. But Scripture reminds us:

“Now we ask you, brothers and sisters, to acknowledge those who work hard among you, who care for you in the Lord and who admonish you. Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work.”
— 1 Thessalonians 5:12–13 (NIV)

Your pastor, choir leader, Sunday school teacher, or usher may not be perfect — but they are God’s instruments. Honor them, not because of their personality, but because of their assignment.

When you respect the altar, you honor the God of the altar.

KEY SCRIPTURE:
1 Thessalonians 5:12–13 (NIV) — “Acknowledge those who work hard among you… Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work.”

PRAYER POINTS:
1️⃣ Lord, forgive me for every time I’ve spoken carelessly or dishonored Your servants.
2️⃣ Father, help me to see beyond human flaws and respect those You’ve chosen for Your work.
3️⃣ Lord, bless every minister, pastor, and laborer in Your vineyard. Strengthen them to continue the work with joy.
4️⃣ Teach me humility, honor, and love — that I may always treat Your altar with reverence.

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