REAL SOUL MUSIC
There is a form of music known as “soul” music. It is sometimes said that a certain song has a “soulful sound.” The soul is involved in worship. While we acknowledge that the regenerated spirit is the origin of true worship, it is expressed through the soul, and sometimes flavored by it. For example, we might say that some praise choruses are very emotionally moving, which is why some people like praise more than deep worship. Some songs are conducive to praise and others are more conducive to worship. Yet both can come from the spirit and be expressed by the soul.
The Scriptures tell us to speak to one another (message song) in “psalm, hymns, and spiritual song.” It also says “singing to the Lord” (worship). Sometimes our preferences are because of our past experiences (perhaps the way we were raised) or our personality (a very calm or very emotional person) these will affect the type of music we prefer. And if we are a very aggressive person we tend to look for Scriptures or examples that support our position.
- There is a time and place for hymns that are Biblical in content. They often strengthen one’s resolve and commitment of the will. They instruct the mind. They usually relate to something about redemption.
- There is a place for praise choruses. They relate to and are expressed through emotional responses. They are good at expressing how deeply we feel about God.
- There is a place for songs (choruses, hymns, or spiritual songs) that lead into worship. These stress who God is, and our awe of and worship to Him.
There is a place for each of these. None should be rejected nor neglected because of their soulish attachments or emotional responses or lack thereof.
Thanksgiving, praise, and worship are not only steps in approaching God, they are complete in themselves in their proper place. For example, the giving of thanks is not worship when done by itself, but is very useful in expressing our gratitude to God for what He has done. This often leads to worship. Praise alone is not worship but an avenue to praise Him for what He has done. We praise Him because of what we know of His deeds and character.
In judging the quality of a song and where it should be used, we need to consider the following:
- Is it Biblical in content?
- Does it lead us into worship?
- To whom is it directed?
- What is the focus of the song, God or man?
- What is its’ message?
- Can people praise and worship with it?
- What emotional/soulish response comes from it?
- Does it leave us wanting to draw close to God?
- Is it just entertainment for one to show off their musical talents and abilities?
- Is there an anointing of the Holy Spirit on it?
Human beings are born with an innate desire for singing and worship. How we release it or get it fulfilled is very important. Let’s get the most from our souls by expressing praise and worship that is “in Spirit and truth.”