How can we make our prayers like "incense" as in Psalm 141:2? Setting the Scene “May my prayer be set before You like incense, my uplifted hands like the evening offering.” (Psalm 141:2) David pictures prayer rising the way fragrant smoke rose from the golden altar in the tabernacle. Because Scripture is accurate and literal, the Holy Spirit intends us to understand that God truly receives prayer as a real, pleasing aroma. Incense in Scripture • Exodus 30:7-8—Aaron burned incense morning and evening; its fragrance filled the Holy Place. • Revelation 5:8—“golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints.” • Revelation 8:3-4—an angel offers incense with “the prayers of all the saints” before God’s throne. • 2 Corinthians 2:15—believers themselves are “a sweet aroma of Christ” to God. Incense, then, pictures something: purity, sacrifice, continual rising, and a pleasing sensation in God’s presence. What Makes a Prayer Fragrant? 1. A cleansed heart • Psalm 66:18—harbored sin blocks the aroma. • 1 John 1:9—confession restores fellowship. 2. Sincere faith • Hebrews 11:6—without faith it is impossible to please Him. 3. Agreement with God’s Word • John 15:7—remaining in Christ and His words positions our requests inside God’s will. 4. Reverent worship • Hebrews 12:28—acceptable worship is “with reverence and awe.” 5. Gratefulness • Philippians 4:6—present requests “with thanksgiving.” 6. Intercession and compassion • 1 Timothy 2:1—supplications for all people; love adds fragrance. 7. Perseverance • Luke 18:1—always pray and never give up; steady smoke is sweet. Practical Steps to Cultivate Incense-Like Prayer • Begin with praise and confession, clearing the altar of your heart. • Read a short passage (e.g., a Psalm) and let God’s own words spark your petitions. • Pray aloud when possible—the spoken word mirrors the audible crackle of altar coals. • Keep a list of people and needs; revisit it daily so the aroma never stops rising. • Mix thanksgiving into every request—gratitude is like the spice that made the temple incense distinct (Exodus 30:34-35). • Close each prayer “in Jesus’ name” (John 14:13-14), acknowledging the only Mediator whose sacrifice undergirds the fragrance. When Our Prayers Lose Their Fragrance • Unrepentant sin (Isaiah 59:2) • Selfish motives (James 4:3) • Marital discord (1 Peter 3:7) • Doubt and double-mindedness (James 1:6-8) The solution: immediate repentance, restoration, and renewed faith. A Life That Backs Up the Aroma The priests washed, wore holy garments, and tended the lampstand before lighting incense. In the same way: • Live obediently (John 14:21). • Serve others sacrificially (Ephesians 5:2). • Maintain fellowship with other believers (Hebrews 10:24-25). A fragrant life reinforces fragrant prayer. Encouragement to Keep the Fire Burning Every morning and evening Aaron was to add fresh incense. Likewise, set regular times—yet stay ready to pray spontaneously (1 Thessalonians 5:17). Each time you come, the Lord literally delights in the aroma. Let that assurance fuel a lifetime of prayers that rise, linger, and please the One whose Word is always true. |
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