Title: The Self-Talk of Worship
---
Psalm 103
Of David.
Bless the LORD, O my soul,
and all that is within me,
bless his holy name!
Bless the LORD, O my soul,
and forget not all his benefits,
who forgives all your iniquity,
who heals all your diseases,
who redeems your life from the pit,
who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy,
who satisfies you with good
so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.
The LORD works righteousness
and justice for all who are oppressed.
He made known his ways to Moses,
his acts to the people of Israel.
The LORD is merciful and gracious,
slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.
He will not always chide,
nor will he keep his anger forever.
He does not deal with us according to our sins,
nor repay us according to our iniquities.
For as high as the heavens are above the earth,
so great is his steadfast love toward those who fear him;
as far as the east is from the west,
so far does he remove our transgressions from us.
As a father shows compassion to his children,
so the LORD shows compassion to those who fear him.
For he knows our frame;
he remembers that we are dust.
As for man, his days are like grass;
he flourishes like a flower of the field;
for the wind passes over it, and it is gone,
and its place knows it no more.
But the steadfast love of the LORD is from everlasting to everlasting on those who fear him,
and his righteousness to children’s children,
to those who keep his covenant
and remember to do his commandments.
The LORD has established his throne in the heavens,
and his kingdom rules over all.
Bless the LORD, O you his angels,
you mighty ones who do his word,
obeying the voice of his word!
Bless the LORD, all his hosts,
his ministers, who do his will!
Bless the LORD, all his works,
in all places of his dominion.
Bless the LORD, O my soul! (ESV)
---
In his sermon titled "The Self-Talk of Worship," Jed Gillis delves into Psalm 103 to explore the importance of internal dialogue in our worship and spiritual life. Gillis emphasizes that true worship involves more than just Sunday morning singing; it permeates every aspect of our lives.
Psalm 103 begins with a call for self-reflection: "Bless the Lord, O my soul." This phrase sets the tone for a discourse on God's character and deeds. Gillis explains that David, the psalmist, speaks to his inner self, urging himself to remember and praise God’s attributes and actions. This act of self-talk isn't just casual musing but a deliberate effort to keep God's goodness at the forefront of his mind.
Gillis highlights several key attributes of God as outlined in the Psalm:
- **Forgiver:** God forgives all iniquities, not just some or those before we knew Him.
- **Healer:** He heals both physical ailments and emotional wounds.
- **Redeemer:** God rescues us from life's pits, showcasing His immense resources.
- **Rewarder:** He crowns us with steadfast love and mercy, signifying our value in His eyes.
- **Satisfier:** God's provision satisfies us deeply and healthily.
- **Justice Warrior:** He works righteousness and justice for the oppressed.
- **Revealer:** God makes His ways known to us, guiding us through life.
David's reflections are not only theological affirmations but practical reminders for daily living. As Gillis notes, these truths about God's character are meant to be repeated internally, shaping how we view ourselves and our circumstances. By continually reminding ourselves of who God is—a forgiving, healing, redeeming, rewarding, satisfying King—we align our hearts with His truth.
---
Berean Bible Church is a non-denominational church in East Knoxville, TN. We are grounded in the Word, celebrating the transformative power of the Gospel. Our community thrives on worship and mutual encouragement, fostering deep connections among members. Committed to our mission, we reach out with compassion and hope, reflecting God's glory throughout our city and beyond.
Learn more at berean.church.
