What does Psalm 20:3 teach about God's acknowledgment of our sacrifices? Verse Focus “May He remember all your offerings and accept your burnt sacrifice. Selah.” The Heart of Divine Remembrance • “Remember” speaks of more than recollection; it is covenantal attention—God actively keeps our gifts before Him. • He never overlooks sincere worship, no matter how small (Mark 12:41-44). • This assurance quiets fear that devotion is wasted or unnoticed. Acceptance, Not Mere Awareness • “Accept” (lit. “turn to ashes,” i.e., consume) means God receives the sacrifice as pleasing (Leviticus 1:9). • When God accepts, He responds with favor, protection, and answered prayer (Psalm 20:1-2, 4-5). • Acceptance is rooted in grace, yet it assumes obedience to His revealed pattern (1 Samuel 15:22). Qualities of Sacrifice God Notices • Offered in faith—trusting His character (Hebrews 11:4). • Offered from a clean heart—repentance precedes worship (Psalm 51:16-17). • Offered according to His Word—no self-styled worship (Deuteronomy 12:4-7). • Offered generously and joyfully—He “loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7). Echoes through Scripture • Genesis 8:20-21—Noah’s burnt offering brings a pleasing aroma; God responds with covenant mercy. • Leviticus 2:2—A “memorial portion” is burned so God will “remember.” • 1 Samuel 1:19—“The LORD remembered” Hannah’s sacrificial prayers. • Acts 10:4—Cornelius’ prayers and alms become “a memorial before God.” • Hebrews 6:10—“God is not unjust; He will not forget your work and love.” Practical Take-Aways • Every act of worship, service, or giving offered in Christ is recorded in heaven. • Assurance of divine memory fuels perseverance when results seem invisible. • Acceptance motivates purity—seek to please Him, not impress people (Colossians 3:23-24). • Sacrifices today are chiefly spiritual—our bodies (Romans 12:1), praise (Hebrews 13:15), and good works (Philippians 4:18). God values them as truly as Old-Testament burnt offerings. Summary Psalm 20:3 teaches that God both remembers and welcomes the sacrifices of His people. He pays personal attention, evaluates the heart, and responds with favor. Nothing given to Him in faith is ever forgotten or ignored. |
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