Genesis 8:20-21 MSG

“Noah built an altar to God. He selected clean animals and birds from every species and offered them as burnt offerings on the altar. God smelled the sweet fragrance and thought to himself, “I’ll never again curse the ground because of people. I know they have this bent toward evil from an early age, but I’ll never again kill off everything living as I’ve just done.”

I just started a new Bible reading plan that involves reading through the entire Bible in Chronological order.  As I was studying Noah and the ark, I was struck by these verses. Now, I’ve read this story numerous times as have you most likely. What stood out most to me though was the fact that when Noah offered his sacrifice, it changed the course of all humanity.

His offering lead to a promise that would last forever.

As the smell from Noah’s offering made it’s way to the heavens, God promised to never again kill off everything as He had just done. What would have happened if Noah didn’t take the time to prepare and offer a sacrifice? I honestly don’t know, but he literally changed the course of history with a single act of gratitude, humility and surrender.

To those who are reading this, know today that you can change the course of your own future, your marriage, the lives of your children and your communities with a sacrifice. An altar built with stones of complete obedience and thankfulness for all He has done, can change the future for yourself and those around you.

We mustn’t ever forget the power of an altar, for it can have an eternal reach, and change the course of history.

Lord, I’m thankful today that I can build an altar to You at any time or place. You’re as close as the mention of Your name, and I know that You are here with me today. I offer myself to You today, please use me to reach those around me.