Psalms 20:3

Psalms 20:3: "Remember all thy offerings, and accept thy burnt sacrifice; Selah."

This verse shifts from petition to divine regard for offerings. In Davidic worship, offerings and sacrifices symbolized devotion, dependence, and confession. The call to remember offerings and accept sacrifices embodies the covenant language that God delights not merely in ritual but in moral fidelity accompanying worship. “Selah” signals a pause to reflect, perhaps to consider the seriousness of worship and God’s response.

It points to the relationship between worship practices and divine acceptance. While later biblical revelation would reframe offerings through Christ, the verse preserves the idea that worship should be sincere, honoring God, and that God rests in the fragrance of sacrifices as meaningful expressions of faith. It foreshadows the interior sacrifice God desires: a contrite heart (Psalm 51:17).

Worship is not only music or ritual; it’s life lived in alignment with God's will. Evaluate whether your offerings—time, resources, talents—reflect genuine devotion. For practical application, practice regular giving that aligns with generous love, and dedicate your daily life to God as a living sacrifice (Romans 12:1). Selah invites you to pause and examine whether your actions indeed please God.

Cross-References

- Psalm 51:16-17

- Hosea 6:6

- Micah 6:6-8

- Hebrews 9:11-14

- Psalm 96:9