“And Aaron shall burn thereon sweet incense every morning: when he dresseth the lamps, he shall burn incense upon it.”
This verse is part of God’s instructions to Moses regarding the construction and use of the golden altar of incense in the tabernacle. The golden altar was located in the Holy Place, just before the veil that separated the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place (the Holy of Holies).
The significance of incense:In the Bible, incense often symbolises the prayers of God’s people going up to heaven. It represents the fragrant offering of our worship and communication with God (Psalm 141:2, Revelation 5:8, 8:3-4). Burning incense was an essential part of the tabernacle worship, and it was a pleasing aroma to the Lord.
The regularity of worship:Aaron, the high priest, was commanded to burn incense on the golden altar every morning when he attended to the lamps. This points to the regularity and consistency of worship. Similarly, as believers, we are encouraged to maintain a daily habit of prayer and communication with God (1 Thessalonians 5:17). Consistent devotion is crucial in our relationship with the Lord.
The connection to the lampstand:The verse mentions that Aaron is to burn incense when he “dresseth the lamps.” The lampstand, or menorah, with its seven lamps, was also present in the Holy Place. The lamps represented the light of God’s presence and Word. The conjunction of the incense offering with the lampstand suggests that worship and prayer should accompany the study and illumination of God’s Word. Our prayer life and the understanding of God’s Word should go hand in hand.
The importance of the morning offering:Burning the incense every morning emphasises the priority and first fruits of worship. Beginning the day with prayer and worship sets the right tone for the rest of the day. Jesus Himself rose early in the morning to pray (Mark 1:35), setting an example for us to follow.
A call to be a royal priesthood:In the New Testament, believers are referred to as a “royal priesthood” (1 Peter 2:9). While the duty of offering incense was initially assigned to Aaron and the Levitical priests, as Christians, we now have direct access to God through Jesus Christ. We can offer our prayers and worship personally, without the need for an intermediary.
In conclusion, Exodus 30:7 teaches us the importance of regular and consistent worship, the connection between prayer and the study of God’s Word, and the significance of starting the day with a dedicated time of devotion. It also points to the privilege we have as believers to approach God directly through Jesus Christ, being part of a royal priesthood. Let us, therefore, approach God with reverence and sincerity, offering our prayers and worship as a pleasing aroma before Him.
