ODB: widening your perspective
January 3, 2010 READ: Matthew 28:16-20 Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations. —Matthew 28:19 A missionary and I were invited to lunch with David, a man in his late seventies who generously supported the missionary’s ministry. David was not able to visit the missionary’s country, but as he gave thanks for the [...]
ODJ: soul music
Let all that I am praise the Lord; with my whole heart, I will praise His holy name. Let all that I am praise the Lord; may I never forget the good things He does for me (vv.1-2).
READ: Psalm 103:1-22
Soul music is a term adopted to describe popular black music in the United States as it evolved from the 50s, 60s, and 70s. It’s a style heavily influenced by gospel music. Soul music is known for its intimacy, passion, intensity, rhythmic sounds, and spiritual roots. In essence, it’s an expression of the soul. I believe this is what David had in mind when he wrote Psalm 103, a soulful ballad that took the people of God into the beautiful place of sincere expression of worship to the Lord.
David began this soulful song with “Let all that I am praise the Lord” (v.1). This phrase was an expression of the intimate relationship between David and Yahweh, the covenant-making and promise-keeping God of Israel. David’s soul music was an intimate expression of love and gratitude to the God who loved him first. David’s soul music was intense. He praised the Lord with his innermost being, which for him was a physical, emotional, and spiritual experience. He didn’t hold back anything in the worship and praise of his God. David’s soul music was intentional. It found its power and passion in constantly remembering God’s blessings. When David thought about God’s provision, he couldn’t keep from singing and giving Him praise.
Biblical soul music starts from within our hearts and expresses itself outward. If we want to experience the journey of intimate, intense, and intentional worship of God, we need to get close to Him. This happens as we spend time talking to Him and listening to Him. Don’t hold anything back. Relish how gracious, merciful, and loving God is as you offer up a sacrifice of praise. —Marvin Williams
How can you become more intimate, intense, and intentional in your worship this week? How can you practically worship God with every part of your life?
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