Trembling

In the biblical context, trembling often signifies a profound sense of awe, fear, or reverence in response to the divine presence or judgment. It is a physical manifestation of an internal spiritual or emotional state, frequently associated with encounters with God or His mighty acts.

One of the most notable instances of trembling occurs at Mount Sinai, where the Israelites experienced the overwhelming presence of God. Exodus 19:16 describes the scene: "On the third day, when morning came, there was thunder and lightning, with a thick cloud upon the mountain, and a very loud trumpet blast, so that all the people in the camp trembled." This trembling was a natural reaction to the awesome display of God's power and holiness.

Trembling is also seen in the context of fear and reverence for God's word and commands. In Isaiah 66:2 , the Lord declares, "But to this one I will look, to him who is humble and contrite in spirit, who trembles at My word." Here, trembling signifies a deep respect and submission to God's authority and truth.

In the New Testament, trembling is associated with the fear of God and the seriousness of salvation. Philippians 2:12 exhorts believers to "work out your salvation with fear and trembling." This indicates a sober and earnest approach to one's faith and relationship with God, acknowledging His majesty and the gravity of His salvation.

Smoking

The imagery of smoke in the Bible often symbolizes the presence of God, divine judgment, or the prayers of the saints. Smoke is frequently associated with theophanies, where God reveals Himself in a tangible form.

In the Old Testament, smoke is a recurring element in the depiction of God's presence. At Mount Sinai, the mountain was enveloped in smoke as God descended upon it. Exodus 19:18 states, "Mount Sinai was completely enveloped in smoke, because the LORD had descended on it in fire. The smoke rose like the smoke of a furnace, and the whole mountain quaked violently." This smoke signifies God's holiness and the consuming nature of His presence.

Smoke is also linked to divine judgment. In Genesis 19:28 , after the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah, Abraham "looked down toward Sodom and Gomorrah and all the land of the plain, and he saw the smoke rising from the land like smoke from a furnace." Here, smoke represents the aftermath of God's righteous judgment upon sin.

In the New Testament, smoke is associated with the prayers of the saints. Revelation 8:4 describes, "And the smoke of the incense, together with the prayers of the saints, rose up before God from the hand of the angel." This imagery conveys the idea that the prayers of believers ascend to God, enveloped in the fragrant smoke of incense, symbolizing their acceptance and intercession before Him.

Throughout Scripture, trembling and smoking serve as powerful symbols of God's presence, holiness, and the appropriate human response to His majesty and authority. These elements remind believers of the awe-inspiring nature of God and the reverence due to Him.