Psalm 103 – A Psalm of Worship

Worship is declaring the greatness of something or someone. It’s showing reverence and respect. The book of Psalms is a compilation of prayers and songs written by many authors over many years but they all had the same focus – God. Whether songs of praise or lament, the people understood that God was the only one powerful enough to save them and therefore the only one worthy of their worship. 

Psalm 103 was written by David and it reveals what he revered about God and is insightful for us. Let’s start with a definition for what it means to worship.  

Worship is surrendering your whole heart to the God who is worthy of our praise.

Why is God worthy of our praise? Psalm 103 outlines three reasons why.

Praise His Character – compassionate, merciful, and forgiving.

Psalm 103:8 The Lord is compassionate and merciful,  slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love.

Praise His Purposes – forgives, heals, and renews.

Psalm 103:3-5 He forgives all my sins and heals all my diseases. He redeems me from death and crowns me with love and tender mercies.He fills my life with good things.  My youth is renewed like the eagle’s!

Psalm 103:6, 9-10 The Lord gives righteousness and justice to all who are treated unfairly. He will not constantly accuse us, nor remain angry forever.He does not punish us for all our sins; he does not deal harshly with us, as we deserve.

Praise His Plan for all of humanity and you!

Psalm 103:19,21-22 The Lord has made the heavens his throne; from there he rules over everything… Yes, praise the Lord, you armies of angels who serve him and do his will! Praise the Lord, everything he has created, everything in all his kingdom. Let all that I am praise the Lord.

How would you describe your relationship with God? Are you pursuing God with your whole heart or just part? As Jesus says in Matthew 22:37, love God with every facet of your being.