Creating your own Altar
Throughout the world and throughout history there have been as many sacred spaces as there have been people to use them. From a simple spot on the dirt to an elaborate cathedral decked out with gold leaf, statues, fine cloth and magnificent stained-glass windows. Each person will have a different reaction to these places. Some may find the cathedral to be a wondrous structure, dedicated to and reflective of the glory of God, while others may find it gaudy and decadent. Some will find the simplicity of a desert cave to be conducive to the state of spiritual ecstasy while others think it primitive and insulting.
Who is right and who is wrong?
Both and neither, in my opinion.
A relationship with God and the subsequent experiences that come from that are personal. If a dry cave helps you reach a state of mind that opens you up to that relationship, then it is the right thing. If you need a cathedral to feel like you are properly honoring God before you talk, then that's what you need.
There is one thing, I believe, that should be universal when considering your own sacred space. However, you do it, wherever you place it and whatever you put into it should be used only for the sacred space. If you have a rock as an altar...it should always and only be used as the altar. If you have a special rug you kneel on while worshiping, that is all you use it for.
This is not to say that you can only engage in your personal relationship with God in a sacred place. A relationship should, in fact, extend beyond the sacred space. The best relationships permeate your life.
The sacred space has two main purposes, in my view.
One, it helps you to form a pattern that assists you in reaching a state of mind that could be seen as more open to the words of Spirit. The space itself becomes a trigger for altered consciousness.
Two, it is a demonstration. It shows to you, God and any other beings watching that you have set aside a portion of yourself and the world for your worship. It is a sign of respect and a show of honoring God. Even if no other physical being sees the space, God does.
Even if you live in a closet, you can still set aside a corner of it for God.
I would like to include a mild (lol) warning here. One of the best things about setting up your sacred space is that from a spirit point of view it becomes a beacon. It is as if a light is ignited in the Astral plane. This claims territory for our side. However, it is also a light that others can see, so always sanctify it with prayer, bells, holy water and incense. Don't be surprised if it attracts all kinds of phenomenon. When it does, do not react with fear but be ready with love in your heart and God's name on your lips.
An example of a prayer you can use for this would be: "God, bless this space. Cleanse it, sanctify it, make it holy. Let this space be set aside for you, and from here on, be your house. Let no evil enter here. In the name of Yahweh, El Elyon and Immanuel I pray. Amen"
A bell is good for this because it sends out vibrations that help to align the space to the intended use and has the effect of driving out any kind of chaotic forces and spirits. I recommend ringing the bell first, for when you ring it, it clears the space. Anything that rings will work, however, bless and sanctify it thoroughly and use it ONLY for prayer and cleansing. Bless it with prayer: "God, bless this bell. Cleanse it, sanctify it, make it holy. Let this space be set aside for you and used in your name." Visualize the name/s of God being written onto the bell with letters of light/fire,
Incense can be what is pleasant to you, but I find that Frankincense or Sandalwood are most effective. Bless the incense before you light it. "God, bless this incense. Cleanse it, sanctify it, make it holy. Let the smoke drive out evil and purify the space of your house." Visualize the name/s of God being written onto the incense with letters of light/fire,
Holy water can be made in a few ways. The way I like best is to hold the cup in both hands, in front of your heart. Visualize light being drawn down from God and into the water. Watch the light glow and grow in the water. Pray that the water be blessed. "God let this water be cleansed and purified. Let it be filled with your light and presence and be transformed into living water. In the name of Yahweh. Amen" Visualize the name/s of God being written into the water with letters of light/fire, Sprinkle the water lightly over everything and visualize it as drops of light that transform the space from mundane matter into a special place for God.
You may use versions of these prayers with substitutions of names and places to bless and sanctify what you wish. Always visualize the light of God, the One God, coming into the person/place/thing being blessed. Use the names of God to seal the prayer. You can use what name you feel appropriate to the task as long as it is a name of the ONE GOD. Hebrew names work very well. Immanuel (God is with us) works very well too.
One last caution. Don't get too attached to the stuff you use. By blessing and sanctifying it, you have made it real to Spirit. However, if you get too attached to the "stuff" it can act as a draw or anchor that makes it difficult for you to go into the light when you cross over.