When they saw the star, they were overjoyed. On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. – Matthew 2:10-11
Symbolism of Frankincense
As we gather together to explore the significance of frankincense, we discover that it holds a profound meaning in our faith. Frankincense represents our prayers rising before God. When we think of its aroma, it serves as a reminder that our heartfelt prayers and worship are pleasing to the Lord. This symbolizes our desire to communicate with God on a deeper level, expressing our devotion and gratitude. We can understand that just as the wise men brought this precious gift to Jesus, we too can offer God our very best as we seek to establish a closer relationship with Him through prayer and worship.
Exodus 30:34
Then the Lord said to Moses, “Take fragrant spices—gum resin, anica, and galbanum—and pure frankincense in all its equaling measure.” – Exodus 30:34
Psalm 141:2
May my prayer be set before you like incense; may the lifting up of my hands be like the evening sacrifice. – Psalm 141:2
Revelation 5:8
And when he had taken it, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb. Each one had a harp and they were holding golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of God’s people. – Revelation 5:8
Hebrews 10:19-20
Therefore, brothers and sisters, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body. – Hebrews 10:19-20
Luke 1:10
And when the time for the burning of incense came, all the assembled worshipers were praying outside. – Luke 1:10
Frankincense as a Gift
In the biblical narrative, frankincense is one of the gifts presented to Jesus during His birth. This act of giving is an expression of reverence and honor, recognizing the uniqueness of who Jesus is. As believers, we also have the opportunity to give gifts that are worthy of our Savior. This can be reflected in our service, our time, and our love for one another. We can think of frankincense as a call to present our lives as a living sacrifice unto God, an offering filled with love and dedication. Just as the wise men sought to honor Jesus, let us strive to express our love and gratitude through our actions.
Matthew 2:11
On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. – Matthew 2:11
James 1:17
Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. – James 1:17
Luke 6:38
Give, and it will be given to you: a good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. – Luke 6:38
2 Corinthians 9:7
Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. – 2 Corinthians 9:7
Proverbs 11:25
A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed. – Proverbs 11:25
Worship and Frankincense
Frankincense is traditionally associated with worship, serving as an offering that carries our prayers into the heavens. When we worship, we are stepping into the presence of God, much like the wise men did when they presented their gifts. Worship is a beautiful act that draws us closer to God, connecting our hearts in unity and lifting our spirits. As we think about frankincense, let us commit to worshiping God with authenticity and passion, with the same love and respect that was shown to Jesus at His birth. This is a wonderful reminder for us that God seeks our worship, and it is our joy to offer it.
Philippians 2:10-11
That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. – Philippians 2:10-11
Isaiah 60:6
Herds of camels will cover your land, young camels of Midian and Ephah. And all from Sheba will come, bearing gold and incense and proclaiming the praise of the Lord. – Isaiah 60:6
John 4:24
God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth. – John 4:24
Psalm 95:6
Come, let us bow down in worship, let us kneel before the Lord our Maker. – Psalm 95:6
Revelation 4:11
You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they were created and have their being. – Revelation 4:11
Healing Properties of Frankincense
Often, frankincense is not only acknowledged for its spiritual significance but also recognized for its physical properties. Historically, it has been used for its healing attributes and is believed to promote wellness. This teaches us about the connection between our spiritual and physical well-being. Just as we seek our spiritual health through prayer and worship, we can also honor our bodies by pursuing health in various forms. This balance is vital, and we are encouraged to seek God for guidance on how to care for our entire being, knowing that healing comes from Him.
Exodus 30:37-38
As for the pure incense, you shall make it according to the composition of the perfumer; it shall be a holy anointing oil. Whoever makes any like it, to use as perfume, shall be cut off from his people. – Exodus 30:37-38
James 5:14
Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord. – James 5:14
1 Peter 2:24
He himself bore our sins in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; by his wounds you have been healed. – 1 Peter 2:24
Jeremiah 30:17
But I will restore you to health and heal your wounds,’ declares the Lord, ‘because you are called an outcast, Zion for whom no one cares. – Jeremiah 30:17
3 John 1:2
Dear friend, I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all may go well with you, even as your soul is getting along well. – 3 John 1:2
Lessons from Frankincense
Frankincense teaches us valuable lessons about sacrifice, worship, and reverence. The wise men who traveled far to bring these gifts to Jesus inspire us to consider how we honor God in our lives. It encourages us to bring our best before Him, whether it’s our time, energy, or gifts. This aspect of frankincense challenges us to reflect on our commitment and dedication to our relationship with God. As we think of frankincense and its significance, let’s commit to giving our all to God every day, recognizing the importance of reverently serving Him.
Matthew 5:16
In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. – Matthew 5:16
Luke 21:1-4
As Jesus looked up, he saw the rich putting their gifts into the temple treasury. He also saw a poor widow put in two very small copper coins. Trul, I tell you, he said, this poor widow has put more than all the others. – Luke 21:1-4
Hebrews 13:16
And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased. – Hebrews 13:16
Romans 12:1
Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. – Romans 12:1
Colossians 3:23
Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters. – Colossians 3:23
Spiritual Significance of Frankincense
Lastly, it is important to understand that frankincense plays a vital role in biblical history and spirituality. It represents devotion, holiness, and a desire to connect with God. The act of offering frankincense was symbolic in the temple worship, reminding us of the sacredness of our worship. This invites us to reflect upon our own spiritual lives and our dedication to God. How do we express our love and reverence? As we honor God, let’s remember that our sincere devotion is as valuable and treasured as the gifts of frankincense brought to Jesus. Our heartfelt actions and worship can truly be a sweet aroma to Him.
1 Chronicles 16:29
Ascribe to the Lord the glory due his name; bring an offering and come before him. Worship the Lord in the splendor of his holiness. – 1 Chronicles 16:29
Ecclesiastes 5:1
Guard your steps when you go to the house of God; go near to listen rather than to offer the sacrifice of fools, who do not know that they do wrong. – Ecclesiastes 5:1
Psalm 100:4
Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. – Psalm 100:4
2 Samuel 24:24
But the king replied to Araunah, “No, I insist on paying you for it. I will not sacrifice to the Lord my God burnt offerings that cost me nothing.” So David bought the threshing floor and the oxen and paid fifty shekels of silver for them. – 2 Samuel 24:24
Psalm 51:17
My sacrifice, O God, is a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart you, God, will not despise. – Psalm 51:17
Final Thoughts
Reflecting on the significance of frankincense allows us to embrace its rich symbolism and lessons. From its representation of prayers to its use in worship and healing, frankincense reminds us of the importance of offering our gifts to God. Just as the wise men honored Jesus with precious gifts, we are encouraged to bring our best before Him in every aspect of our lives. Each verse we explored draws us into a deeper understanding of our relationship with God, nudging us to bring love and reverence into our daily practices.
We have the opportunity to grow in faith as we seek to apply these teachings. Let’s commit to nurturing our worship and recognizing the value of all we offer. Frankincense stands as a beacon representing our prayers, gifts, and earnest devotion. May we cultivate these practices in our hearts, making our lives a sweet aroma of worship to our Creator.
Feel free to explore more insightful topics that can bring meaning to our faith journey. We invite you to check out these links for more biblical inspiration: Bible Verses about Love and Jesus’ Birth in the Old Testament. Each verse and lesson contributes to the beautiful tapestry of our Christian walk.