1705. The Perpetual Incense
The Perpetual Incense
"And when Aaron lighteth the lamps at even, he shall burn incense upon it, a perpetual incense before the Lord throughout your generations" (Exo_30:8).
The Incense was burned upon the Altar every morning and every evening. It was there as a perpetual memorial.
1. We are taught in all of this the need of praying without ceasing. Prayer should not be isolated to a weekly service, we should pray as naturally and as constantly as we breathe.
Daniel, who was for many years the prime minister of the mightiest empire of his day with far-reaching provinces, and heavy political responsibilities, had many important matters coming to him daily for decision; yet amidst all this business, Daniel found it his wisdom and strength to go alone into his room and pray on his knees to God, three times every day. So faithful was he in this, that, knowing his enemies watched him, and knowing that to pray would cost him his life, yet he went on bravely praying to God. No power on earth or hell could stop Daniel from praying. He burned his incense on the Altar every morning and every evening, and also at noon time as well. God promoted that man to honor and used him.
Prayer reveals our true character more than anything else.
2. We are taught here also the need of designated hours for prayer. It is written of the Lord Jesus Christ that "rising up a great while before day, He went out, and departed into a solitary place, and there prayed" (Mar_1:35). In His morning hours of prayer He received from His Father the fresh supplies He needed, which enabled Him to live the life, and to accomplish the work which God sent Him to do.
Again, it is said of our Saviour, that after supper He went into the Garden to pray, as was His wont. It was His habit to close each day with prayer. We read of His praying in the mountain, praying in the wilderness, praying everywhere. He lived in the very atmosphere of holy prayer. This was the secret of His holy life and of His fruitful service.
We need grace and strength each day to enable us to live lives pleasing to God, and to do the work He has given us. Then, as night comes on, we should finish each day in loving, grateful prayer to God, giving Him the thanks and adoration of our hearts.
Autor: R.E. NEIGHBOUR