Psalms 20:3

“Remember all thy offerings, and accept thy burnt sacrifice; Selah.”

1. Context of Psalm 20: Psalm 20 is a prayer for God’s help and protection in times of trouble, specifically written for the Israelites to offer as a communal prayer on behalf of their king. It is a psalm of David and emphasizes the trust and confidence that the people have in God’s power and faithfulness.

2. Significance of “Remember all thy offerings”: In this verse, David asks God to remember all the offerings that have been presented to Him. This includes the burnt sacrifices and other offerings that were made in the context of worship and seeking God’s favor. The Israelites believed that their offerings symbolically represented their dedication and commitment to God, as well as their desire for His favor and blessings.

3. Symbolism of burnt sacrifice: The burnt sacrifice mentioned in the verse refers to an offering in which the entire animal was consumed by fire on the altar. It was a significant act of worship in ancient Israel and represented complete surrender and devotion to God. The burning of the sacrifice symbolized the purification and consecration of the worshipper before God.

4. The meaning of “Selah”: The word “Selah” appears frequently in the book of Psalms and is believed to be a musical or liturgical term. Its exact meaning is uncertain, but it is thought to signify a pause or reflection, encouraging the reader to meditate on the words that were just spoken.

5. Lessons from Psalm 20:3:

• a. Acknowledging God’s sovereignty: By asking God to remember the offerings and accept the burnt sacrifice, David acknowledges that it is God alone who has the power to accept their worship and provide His blessings. It reflects a humble recognition of God’s sovereignty and the people’s dependence on Him.
• b. The importance of heartfelt worship: The burnt sacrifice represented a wholehearted offering to God. Similarly, our worship and devotion to God should be sincere, genuine, and rooted in a deep love for Him. It is not merely about external rituals but about the state of our hearts.
• c. Remembering past acts of worship: David’s request for God to remember their offerings suggests the value of remembering and reflecting on the faithfulness of God in the past. Remembering God’s past acts of provision and deliverance can bring comfort and confidence in times of trouble.
• d. Taking time for reflection: The mention of “Selah” prompts us to pause and meditate on the words spoken. It encourages us to reflect on the significance of the verse and apply its teachings to our lives. It reminds us of the importance of taking intentional moments to seek God’s presence and listen to His voice.