Just so I am clear, even if the practice is focused solely on prayer to God, burning sage (smudging) is still considered a pagan practice and against the authority of God. Even if the intention is not an act to manipulate the spiritual realm, but as an act of prayer and as an offering to God.
I'm finding verses on using incense (though the word "smudging" clearly isn't mentioned, neither is sage I believe, but I could be wrong) in the Bible (Psalms 141:2, Malachi 1:11, Exodus 30:7-8, Revelation 8:3-4, Revelation 18:13, Leviticus 16:12-13, and others)
Fwiw I am an ex-New Ager who has given her life to Christ.
Is burning sage compatible with the Christian faith or is it Witchcraft? - General Faith - Christian Forums at Crosswalk
Is burning sage (smudging) compatible with true Christianity?
Is there an overreaction on things like burning sage?
Sage is a form of divination, used to "cleanse the room of unwanted spirits." cf. Deut. 18:10. However, sage is a wonderul aromatic herb that was given to us for food cf. Gen. 1:29, and perhaps as a spice for an aesthetic incense. It primarily revolves around one's intention. God doesn't really care too much for the aspects of ritualism, but rather the heart for justice, mercy and love, cf. Hos 6, Micah 6, 1 Cor. 13, etc.
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