Have you ever taken a moment to reflect on when you first met God? Do you remember the excitement, the joy, and the deep connection you felt when Jesus became your Savior? Those early days were filled with an unshakable passion—every worship session, every bible study, every moment of prayer felt alive. But what about now? Does that fire still burn, or are you left with nothing but smoke and memories?
If you find yourself feeling distant from God, you’re not alone. Many believers go through seasons where their passion fades, where spiritual disciplines become routine, and where worldly distractions creep in. But today, I want to tell you something powerful: God is calling you back to Bethel—back to the place of your first love, back to the altar of worship, back to true fellowship with Him.
What is Bethel?
Bethel is more than a location; it is a spiritual landmark. In Genesis 28:10-19, Jacob had his first real encounter with God at Bethel. It was there that he saw a vision of heaven’s ladder, where God reaffirmed His covenant with him. This was a place of encounter, commitment, and worship.
But over time, Jacob drifted. Life happened. He got caught up in family affairs, business, and the struggles of daily living. Sounds familiar? Isn’t that how we, too, lose sight of our spiritual priorities?
But God, in His mercy, called Jacob back. Genesis 35:1 says, “Then God said to Jacob, ‘Arise, go up to Bethel and dwell there; and make an altar there to God, who appeared to you when you fled from the face of Esau your brother.’”
And today, God is saying the same to you. Come back to Bethel and remain there.
Why Do You Need to Return to Bethel?
Jacob had experienced tremendous success between his first encounter at Bethel and this moment in Genesis 35. He had left home with nothing but a staff and had now become a wealthy man, with wives, children, and abundant livestock. But despite all his material blessings, he had lost something far more valuable—his deep fellowship with God.
Success without God is empty. No matter how much we gain in life, if our relationship with God suffers, we are truly poor. That’s why God called Jacob back to Bethel—to restore what had been lost.
And that’s why God is calling you, too.
Preparing for Bethel: What Must Change?
1. He got rid of foreign gods (Genesis 35:2).
What are the idols in your life? Idols aren’t just statues; they are anything that takes the place of God in your heart. Money, career, relationships, entertainment—whatever steal your focus from God needs to go. Exodus 34:14 reminds us, “Do not worship any other god, for the LORD, whose name is Jealous, is a jealous God.”
2. He purified himself and his household.
The word “purify” means to remove impurities. Just like gold is refined in fire, your heart needs to be refined by God. Is there hidden sin? Unforgiveness? Pride? It’s time to let God cleanse you.
Psalm 51:10 says, “Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.”
3. He changed his garments.
This wasn’t about fashion—it was about identity. Jacob’s household had started looking, speaking, and behaving like the Canaanites. God calls us to be different. 2 Corinthians 6:17 says, “Therefore, come out from among them and be separate, says the Lord.”
4. Burying the Past: A True Act of Repentance
When Jacob and his household prepared for Bethel, they didn’t just throw away their idols—they buried them under an oak tree at Shechem (Genesis 35:4). This was symbolic of true repentance.
Repentance isn’t just feeling sorry for sin—it’s turning away from it completely. It’s about putting permanent distance between yourself and the things that once held you back. It means making a conscious decision to walk in obedience to God.
What do you need to bury today?
Is it an unhealthy habit? A toxic relationship? A mindset of fear or doubt? Whatever it is, it’s time to leave it behind.
Rebuilding the Altar: Renewing Your Worship
When Jacob finally arrived at Bethel, he built an altar and worshipped God (Genesis 35:7). An altar represents dedication, sacrifice, and communion with God.
So, let me ask you: What is the altar God is calling you to rebuild this year?
Is it your personal prayer life? Your devotion to studying the Word? Your commitment to worship and serving God wholeheartedly?
The effectiveness of your altar will determine your spiritual wellbeing. And every altar requires sacrifice. Romans 12:1 urges us, “Offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.”
Sacrifices God is Calling You to Make on Your Renewed Alter:
1. The Sacrifice of Worship and Thanksgiving
Worship isn’t just about singing; it’s about surrender. Even when life feels difficult, choose to praise God.
2. The Sacrifice of Undistracted Prayer
In a world full of noise, make time to hear God’s voice. Prioritize deep, fervent prayer.
3. The Sacrifice of Love
Love isn’t just a feeling—it’s a choice that requires effort and action. Love God by obeying His commands (John 14:15).
4. The Sacrifice of Service
God isn’t looking for passive believers—He wants committed servants who put Him first.
5. The Sacrifice of Obedience
Obedience isn’t always easy, but it’s necessary. Jacob obeyed, and his life was transformed. Will you?
A Personal Call to You: Return to Bethel
Today, God is inviting you to come back to Him—to return to Bethel and rebuild the altar of your relationship with Him.
It’s time to cast away anything that has taken God’s place in your life. It’s time to make a fresh start, to let go of the past, and to seek Him with all your heart.
Will you answer the call?
Let’s pray:
“Lord, I hear Your voice calling me back to You. I repent of everything that has drawn me away. Today, I lay down my idols, purify my heart, and commit to walking in obedience with You. Take me back to Bethel and let me remain in Your presence. Amen.”
God is calling you—don’t ignore His voice.
Arise go up to Bethel, and dwell there.
