How can we incorporate the principle of reverence from Leviticus 16:13 today? The Scene in Leviticus 16:13 “He is to put the incense on the fire before the LORD, and the cloud of incense will cover the mercy seat above the Testimony, so that he will not die.” • On the Day of Atonement, the high priest could not barge into the Most Holy Place. The rising incense created a fragrant veil, underscoring God’s blazing holiness and the need for humble, careful approach. • The warning “so that he will not die” shows reverence is literally a matter of life and death in God’s presence. Timeless Principle: God’s Holiness Demands Reverence • Hebrews 12:28-29—“worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, for our God is a consuming fire.” • Psalm 89:7—“God is greatly feared… and awesome above all who surround Him.” • Reverence is not formality for its own sake; it is the fitting response to the One whose glory would consume us without His mercy. Why Reverence Still Matters Today • Incense foreshadowed Christ’s intercession (Hebrews 7:25). Because Jesus brings us near, reverence does not decrease—it deepens. • Familiarity with worship settings, technology, and casual culture can dull our sense of awe. Leviticus 16:13 reminds us God has not changed. Practical Ways to Cultivate Reverence Right Now • Guard the gathering – Arrive prepared, not rushed. – Silence phones, quiet conversations, focus hearts (Ecclesiastes 5:1-2). • Honor the Word – Read Scripture daily with expectation, not obligation. – When it is read publicly, listen attentively, resisting distractions (Nehemiah 8:3-6). • Pray with gravity – Set aside undistracted time. – Begin by acknowledging God’s character before presenting requests (Matthew 6:9-10). • Adopt meaningful physical posture – Stand, kneel, lift hands—outward actions that reinforce inward awe (Psalm 95:6). • Speak with care – Avoid casual or flippant references to God’s name (Exodus 20:7). – Let every social-media post and conversation pass the “mercy-seat test”: would it honor God’s holy presence? • Pursue daily holiness – Confess sin quickly (1 John 1:9). – Choose purity in entertainment, relationships, finances—because the Spirit’s temple is now us (1 Corinthians 3:16-17). • Celebrate communion thoughtfully – Examine yourself (1 Corinthians 11:27-29). – Remember the cost of the cross with humble gratitude. Scriptures That Reinforce a Reverent Heart • 1 Peter 1:17—“conduct yourselves in reverent fear during your stay as foreigners.” • Isaiah 6:3-5—Even seraphim cover their faces; Isaiah cries, “Woe to me!” • Acts 5:11—Great fear seizes the church after Ananias and Sapphira’s deception. • Revelation 15:4—“Who will not fear You, O Lord, and glorify Your name? For You alone are holy.” Final Encouragement Leviticus 16:13 calls us to let the “cloud of incense” surround every aspect of life—private devotion, public worship, daily conduct—so that our nearness to God is marked not by casualness but by continual, joyful reverence. |
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