Exodus 30:1-10; 34-38 – Prayer
We move back into the tent of the tabernacle to the third item of furniture in the Holy Place – the altar of incense.
We are given both the description of the altar, verses 1-5, and its function, verses 6-10.
At this golden altar the priests were to take burning coals from the bronze altar outside, they were to place these coals on the altar of incense, and then put on specially made incense that would burn and fill the space with a sweet smelling aroma. This was to be done every morning and then again in the evening.
The burning of incense is a representation of prayers that are made before God. Psalm 141; Revelation 5:8; 8:3-4
Notice that prayer is made in the presence of God, v6. The altar was so close to the mercy seat that it was sometimes called the altar that belonged to the Holy of Holies (1 Kings 6:22 and Hebrews 9:3-4) The writer to the Hebrews isn’t mistaken about where the altar was placed, rather he is stressing that this altar is in the very presence of God.
Prayer is offered before God’s throne of grace and mercy. God delights in his children coming into his presence.
Prayer is offered up continually, v 7-8. Every morning and every evening the incense was burned. It never ceased. The priests lived in continually atmosphere of prayer. Day after day, week after week, year after year, generation after generation. Continual, constant, regular prayer.
Prayer is through God’s appointed means, v9 & 34-38. The priests could not offer incense in the way that they thought was best (Leviticus 10 – Nadab and Abihu!). They had to approach God the way that he had prescribed in his Word.
Prayer is a privilege of communion with God, v10.
Jesus Christ perfects prayer for us. He continually offers up prayer for us as our great high priest, and our prayers come through him (Hebrews 7:25). We can have communion with God the Father only because of Jesus Christ.
Questions
- What was Christ’s attitude to prayer while he was on earth?
- How can we follow Paul’s command to pray without ceasing, 1 Thessalonians 5:17?
Prayer Points
- Give thanks for the privilege of prayer.
- Use prayer points from your congregation.
- Pray for family matters.