Psalm 141:2 “Let my prayer be set forth before thee as incense; may the lifting up of my hands be like incense; may the lifting up of my hands be like the evening sacrifice. NIV
Incense is an aromatic biotic material that releases fragrant smoke when burned. It is carefully prepared, kindled with holy fire, and devoutly presented before God, which is how we can pray. Our prayer requires thought more important than a party or wardrobe, choosing perfume, or taking a vacation. The aroma produced by incense is not quickly forgotten as it burns slowly. The honesty of hearts creates real prayer more lasting than the sweet odor of incense not to be quickly forgotten by God. Prayer needs to be set forth before the Lord by a sense of his presence with reverence for his name. We carefully prepare prayer since it is extremely important how we pray. “Let the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength and my redeemer.”
The psalmist’s desire was for his prayer to be accepted by God. Often, we pray without words, simply by lifting our hands and kneeling as a sacrifice, surrender, and token of earnest expectant prayer with dependence upon God for his glory. Our heart, hand, or knee prayers mingled with a desire that tiffs may be sweet in his presence as the beauty of eventide. Lift the heads that hang down and believe to see the glory of the Lord by his acceptance of pure prayer. “Pass me not O gentle Savior, Hear my humble cry; while on others thou art calling, do not pass me by.”
Now we may lift hands, bow knees, clasp hands, hold out the cup, or lie face down, yet the spiritual prayer is in the Lord’s esteem higher than the ceremonial. The spoken prayer from the heart is a truer sacrifice than an open display. We consecrate about prayer, in prayer. There is an unmistakable supplication in the scripture reference. ”Let my prayer be set forth before thee”; in other words, establish, confirm, frame with strength, and longevity, not easily dissipated; but that it should be like that which is firm and secure.
Dear Lord, consecrate me to serve you by the power of your divine grace. Amen
The scripture says: “Come boldly to the throne of grace.” This invitation builds confidence in telling God things. It is possible to be heard by God. We must fear God, respect Him, and pray humbly. God listens to our honest hearts. Everything about us matters to him, even a simple prayer or thought. Many things in the exigencies of life prove that “We grow in grace and the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” The best prayer embodies humility, confidence, and strength. Perhaps you’ll say, “How is that possible?” Well, remember we are talking about our God of grace and mercy, who is a consuming fire. AMEN!
The Traveler Weekly 