What does it mean to "accept" our prayers according to Psalm 119:108? The Verse in Focus “Accept, I pray, the freewill offerings of my mouth, O LORD, and teach me Your judgments.” — Psalm 119:108 Key Word: Accept • Hebrew root “râtsâ” carries the ideas of being pleased with, showing favor toward, receiving graciously. • The psalmist does not presume acceptance; he pleads for it. Prayer that God “accepts” is prayer He welcomes, approves, and delights in. Prayers as Freewill Offerings • “Freewill offerings” (nədābâ) were voluntary sacrifices (Leviticus 22:18-23). No one compelled them; love prompted them. • Here the lips, not an animal, form the offering (cf. Hosea 14:2; Hebrews 13:15). • Prayer becomes worship—something we “bring” to God’s altar. Conditions for Accepted Prayer • A clean heart: “If I had cherished iniquity in my heart, the Lord would not have listened” (Psalm 66:18). • Faith in God’s character: “Without faith it is impossible to please God” (Hebrews 11:6). • Righteous living: “The prayer of the upright is His delight” (Proverbs 15:8). • Alignment with His will: “Whatever we ask…if we ask according to His will” (1 John 5:14-15). Why Ask God to Accept? • Humility—acknowledging we have nothing to offer but what He first gives (1 Chronicles 29:14). • Dependence—seeking His favor, not trusting eloquence or effort. • Relationship—inviting the Father’s pleasure in the child’s words. Acceptance Leads to Instruction • The verse couples acceptance with “teach me Your judgments.” • When God receives our prayers, He responds by guiding us; conversation becomes transformation (Psalm 25:4-5). Practical Takeaways • Approach God willingly and joyfully, as one bringing a gift. • Examine the heart before the lips speak. • Speak in faith, trusting God’s readiness to receive. • Expect answered prayer to shape obedience; listen for His teaching. • Keep prayer regular—freewill offerings were continual, not occasional. When we ask God to “accept” our prayers, we’re asking Him to look with favor on our heartfelt words, receive them as pleasing worship, and in return, shape us through His truth. |
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