The Power and Importance of the Family Altar

The family altar is a sacred, daily practice where a household gathers morning and evening to worship God through prayer, Bible reading, and songs of praiseCG 521.3+1. This tradition establishes the home as a house of prayer and serves as a vital safeguard for the spiritual life of every family memberHM June 1, 1889, par. 9+1.

The Purpose and Importance of the Family Altar

• A Place of Protection: Erection of the family altar creates a spiritual hedge around children, protecting them from the cruel power of the adversaryHM June 1, 1889, par. 9.

• Direct Presence of God: Engaging in family prayer places the household directly in the presence of God, instilling firm principles in the youth that help them resist temptationPr 192.4.

• Instruction for Eternity: It is the primary place where parents, acting as the spiritual priests of the home, teach their children to live for eternity rather than just for this lifeCG 517.1+2.

• A Source of Wisdom: Parents especially need the strength found at the family altar to learn how to guide their children wisely, tenderly, and lovinglyCG 517.1+1.

How to Conduct Family Worship

• Morning and Evening Sacrifice: Families should meet twice daily to acknowledge God's care and commit their way to HimMH 392.2+1.

• Keep it Enjoyable: The service should be short, spirited, and interesting to ensure it does not become a wearisome or dry duty for childrenCG 521.3+1.

• Interactive Elements: Worship should include reading inspired wisdom, singing hymns in unison, and offering earnest petitions for the family and for those in positions of responsibility in God's workARSH March 13, 1866, page 115.5+2.

• Order and Reverence: Children should be taught to respect the hour of prayer and rise early enough to be present for the serviceChS 209.6+1.

The Blessings of a Restored Altar

• Family Unity: The practice helps repress jealousies and envies, restores serenity, and reburnishes the chain of affection between family membersARSH March 13, 1866, page 115.5.

• Spiritual Growth: Establishing the altar is often the first step in reclaiming backsliders and preparing the family to be a "helping hand" for GodRH December 24, 1901, par. 4+1.

• Missionary Influence: A well-ordered family with a consistent prayer life is the most convincing evidence of the power of the gospel to the world1SAT 77.1+1.

• Heavenly Attendance: Ministering angels linger in such homes and carry the tidings of the family's spiritual progress heavenward1T 309.1+1.

The neglect of this duty leaves a home in spiritual darkness, whereas maintaining a constant, abiding faith at the family altar ensures that the salvation of God remains within the household Jeremiah 10:251T 309.1+1. It is the privilege of every family to live so that Satan can take no advantage of them, finding instead peace, health, and eventually, everlasting life 1 Peter 1:13-161T 309.1.