Group Bible Study Material
Topic: The Sweet Aroma of Worship
Passage: Psalm 141:2, Leviticus 16:11-13
Introduction
In the Tabernacle of Moses, incense was a vital part of the worship ritual. Its fragrant smoke, rising towards the heavens, symbolized the prayers and adoration of the people ascending to God. The sweet aroma of incense filled the air, creating an atmosphere of reverence and awe.
Questions for Discussion
What does the incense in the Tabernacle symbolize?
How does Psalm 141:2 compare prayer to incense?
What is the significance of the high priest's incense offering on the Day of Atonement?
How can we apply the symbolism of incense to our prayers?
Commentary
Adam Clarke: "As incense—Incense was offered every morning and evening before the Lord, on the golden altar, before the veil of the sanctuary (Exo 29:39; Num 28:4)."
John Gill: "Aaron shall present the bull as a sin offering for himself—In the same manner, and is to be understood in the same sense as in Lev 16:6."
Rashi: "From the altar—Referring to the outside altar. Before the Lord—From the side of the altar that is before the entrance to the Holy, namely, the western side of the altar."
Devotional
The sweet aroma of incense reminds us of the importance of prayer in our lives. Just as the incense smoke ascended to God, so too do our prayers reach up to Him. When we pray, we are engaging in the act of worship, communing with the divine, and seeking His presence in our lives.
Let us approach our prayers with sincerity and reverence, quieting our hearts and minds and focusing on God's presence. May our prayers, like the sweet aroma of incense, ascend to God and draw us closer to His loving embrace.
Conclusion
The incense in the Tabernacle was a symbol of the sweet aroma of worship. It reminds us of the importance of prayer in our lives and of the power of our prayers to reach up to God. May we always seek to offer our prayers to God with sincerity and reverence?
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