In the age of Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube and Netflix, it takes an intentional effort to log off and tune out so we can encounter God at home. It is worth the sacrifice, however.

The family altar — a designated time and place at home where the family comes together to pray, worship and experience the living God — is like a firewall against Satan’s schemes. Show me a family altar, and I will show you an atmosphere of faith and a house where God’s presence resides.

While a daily family altar is wonderful, perhaps a more realistic starting point is setting aside one day per week. Designate a specific time and place at the home where all (and I do mean all) members of the family gather to worship, study God’s Word, pray and experience the power of Jesus through the Holy Spirit. A 30-minute session with younger children or a 45-minute session with older children creates a healthy space for a viable and measurable encounter.

Parents must be careful to avoid creating a harsh religious setting that demands participation. Rather, they should model a sense of anticipation by sharing personal testimonies of altar times and inviting members to experience God together.

Show me a family altar, and I will show you a house where God’s presence resides.

Family altars do require some planning and structure, however. Consider these suggestions for bringing the family together.

Allot time. Although we live in a world where things constantly change, setting and keeping an appointment to meet God will make a lasting impression.

Designate a specific place. Where you meet to construct the spiritual altar in the house matters. Avoid places where there are a lot of distractions.

Switch off electronics. Turn off cell phones, televisions, social media, etc. Teach kids that when they give God their undivided attention, He will give them His. You might describe this as “FaceTime with God.”

Don’t just talk; listen! Allow time for God to speak. A moment of reflection, meditation and silence can lead to a word of wisdom, a word of knowledge or a gift of faith. Be open to praying in the Spirit.

Don’t forget the oil. Although some see this as archaic, anointing with oil is biblical (James 5:14). I believe and have personally experienced a powerful change in my house when we periodically anoint not only our family members, but also our rooms with oil.

The beauty of family altars is the glorious promise of a God who shows up when we call on His name (Matthew 18:20). For single parents, couples with or without kids, and every other type of home, the family altar enriches the faith narrative with the ability to live out the words of Joshua: “But as for me and my household, we will serve the LORD” (Joshua 24:15).

This article originally appeared in the August/September 2017 edition of Influence magazine.