Psalms 141:2

“Let my prayer be set forth before thee as incense; and the lifting up of my hands as the evening sacrifice.”

Context:The Book of Psalms is a collection of poetic and lyrical songs written by various authors, including King David. Psalms 141 is attributed to David and is classified as a psalm of lament. It is a prayer seeking God’s help and protection in times of trouble and temptation.

Symbolism of Incense and the Evening Sacrifice:In this verse, David uses vivid imagery to describe his approach to prayer. He compares his prayer to incense and the lifting up of his hands to the evening sacrifice. These references hold symbolic significance:

– Incense: In the Old Testament, incense was used in the tabernacle and later in the temple as a fragrant offering to God (Exodus 30:34-38). It was a symbol of worship and prayer, representing the rising of prayers to God’s presence. David desires his prayer to ascend to God like the sweet fragrance of incense.

– Evening Sacrifice: The evening sacrifice was one of the daily offerings prescribed in the Mosaic Law (Exodus 29:38-41). It signified the people’s gratitude, dependence, and surrender to God. David compares the lifting up of his hands to the evening sacrifice, indicating his surrender and devotion to God in prayer.

Prayer as Incense:David’s request for his prayer to be set forth as incense emphasizes the importance of sincere and heartfelt communication with God. Just as incense permeates the air with its fragrance, David desires his prayer to reach God’s presence and capture His attention. It reflects the desire for an intimate connection with God and the acknowledgment that prayer is not merely empty words but a means of approaching the Almighty.

Lifting Hands as the Evening Sacrifice:David also mentions lifting up his hands as the evening sacrifice. This act symbolizes surrender, submission, and a posture of worship. By raising his hands, David expresses his dependence on God and his desire to offer himself wholly to Him. It signifies an attitude of humility and trust, acknowledging God’s sovereignty and seeking His guidance and protection.

Application:

• A heart of worship:David’s prayer teaches us to approach God with reverence and adoration. Our prayers should be accompanied by a heart that worships and acknowledges God’s greatness and holiness.
• Sincerity and devotion:Just as incense represents the fragrance of prayer, our prayers should come from a sincere and devoted heart. God desires genuine and authentic communication with His children.
• Surrender and trust:Lifting hands as the evening sacrifice reminds us to surrender our lives to God completely. We should trust in His wisdom and guidance, acknowledging our dependence on Him in all circumstances.
• Persistent prayer:This verse encourages us to continue in prayer, persistently seeking God’s presence and guidance. Just as incense rises continually, our prayers should be an ongoing conversation with God.

In conclusion, Psalms 141:2 teaches us the importance of approaching God with sincere worship, surrender, and persistent prayer. It reminds us that our prayers should be an offering to God, seeking His presence and guidance in all aspects of our lives.