Standing on Holy Ground: The Intercessor’s Call to the Altar of God
Standing on Holy Ground: The Intercessor’s Call to the
Altar of God
"Then the Lord said to him, 'Take off the sandals
from your feet, for the place where you are standing is holy ground.'"
— Acts 7:33 (referencing Exodus 3:5)
There is something profoundly humbling and awe-inspiring
about being made aware that you are standing on holy ground. I was personally
reminded of this truth one morning during my commute to work. A familiar song
began to stir in my spirit, and I found myself softly singing:
"We are standing on holy ground,
And I know that there are angels all around.
Let us praise Jesus now,
For we are standing in His presence on holy ground."
That simple moment stayed with me throughout the day,
filling my heart and mind with the awareness of God's presence.
For Moses, standing on holy ground occurred at the burning
bush—God’s divine presence manifesting in the wilderness (Exodus 3:5). But for
us, as intercessors, that sacred moment happens every time we kneel at the
altar of God. Each time we enter the secret place, lifting up prayers and
standing in the gap for others, we are stepping onto holy ground. It is a holy
encounter, a divine invitation to partner with God in His work.
What Is Holy Ground?
Holy ground isn't about the dirt beneath our feet—it’s about
the presence that fills the space. Wherever God manifests His presence becomes
sanctified. It's set apart. It’s not common. And as intercessors, we must be
keenly aware of this reality. Our prayer closets, church altars, or quiet
corners become sacred places, because God Himself is there.
In Hebrews 1:3, we are reminded of Jesus’ role:
"The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of
his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word. After he had provided
purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in
heaven."
This is crucial. Jesus, seated at the right hand of the
Father, is interceding for us even now. The ultimate intercessor. His finished
work at the cross has torn the veil, allowing us access to stand before the Majesty.
When we approach the altar—whether literal or figurative—we align ourselves
with His ongoing ministry of intercession.
The Altar of God: The Intercessor’s Station
The altar represents the place of sacrifice, offering, and
divine encounter. In the Old Testament, it was where priests offered sacrifices
on behalf of the people. Today, as intercessors, we spiritually approach the
altar not with bulls or goats, but with broken hearts, repentant spirits, and
fervent petitions.
Standing at God's altar is no small thing. It demands
reverence. It demands that we recognize we are standing between heaven and
earth, carrying burdens that are not our own. We stand on behalf of nations,
families, churches, and lost souls. Each prayer, each cry, is an incense
offering rising before the throne of grace.
And this altar is holy ground.
The Significance of Holy Ground for Intercessors
So why is the concept of holy ground vital for those called to
intercession?
1. Reverence and Awareness
Just as Moses was instructed to remove his sandals, we too
must strip away anything that contaminates or distracts. Coming to the altar is
not casual. It’s not routine. It’s a divine invitation to partner with God.
Recognizing the holiness of the ground reminds us to approach with purity,
humility, and focus.
2. Transformation Happens on Holy Ground
Moses’ encounter with God on holy ground altered the course
of his life and the destiny of an entire nation. Similarly, when we intercede,
we participate in transformational work—not only for others but within
ourselves. The altar becomes a place where heaven’s plans are downloaded,
hearts are softened, and chains are broken.
3. Alignment with Christ’s Ministry
Hebrews 1:3 shows us Jesus' role in sustaining all things by
His word and continuing intercession from His throne. We, too, are called to
sustain others in prayer, standing in alignment with Christ’s priestly role.
The holy ground of the altar is where we echo His words, His desires, His will
for His people.
A Charge to Intercessors
Every time you step into prayer, visualize it: You’re
standing barefoot before a holy God, in His presence, on consecrated ground.
Whether at a church altar, by your bedside, or driving in your car—when your
heart is bowed in surrender, the ground is holy. Don’t take this lightly. The
weight and privilege of intercession are monumental. But God has graced you,
equipped you, and called you to this sacred task. The altar is not just a
place of sacrifice; it is where heaven meets earth, and you, dear intercessor,
are the bridge.
May we always remember, we are
standing on holy ground!
About the Author:
Dr. Chavonne D. Stewart is a watchman, prophetic intercessor, and worshipful warrior; she carries a profound hunger and thirst for the Holy spirit. Guided by the word of Isaiah 6:8 NIV. In addition to her ministry work Dr. Chavonne is an experienced education specialist, consultant and author, known for her transformative work in leadership training and development. She focuses on coaching authentic women leaders. Dr. Stewart's dedication to education and leadership, coupled with her passion for travel and family, embodies her as both a professional and a role model and mentor for women.