Soul Music

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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.