“A level soul, a balanced soul, a genuine soul — that is a gift from God.”- Judah Smith
As Judah Smith continues Chapter 6 of How’s Your Soul?, he moves on to the second verse of Psalm 131.
3. “I have calmed and quieted my soul.” Pastor Smith notes that the Hebrew word translated calm in Psalm 131:2 literally means “to make level.” The Bible uses calm in the context of leveling an uneven field (see Isaiah 28:25). In other words, David said that he intentionally leveled and settled his soul.
Therefore, Judah believes, King David recognized that sometimes his internal levels were off. This imbalance made him inconsistent in his soul. Furthermore, Judah thinks David faced the same question we face today: Do I live according to God’s unique design, or do I cater to other people’s perceptions and desires for me?
To avoid inconsistency and imbalance in his soul, David knew he needed to level himself. As a result, even though God place him as king over Israel, he remained David, the shepherd. In his vocation as a shepherd, David lived simply and loved God deeply. Yet, even with a change in job title and influence, his perspective stayed level.
In conclusion, Pastor Smith posits that worship = the greatest leveler. Worship keeps our perspective on an even keel. Also, worship clarifies our relationship with God. Through the process, we’re reminded of God’s identity as well as our identity. In addition, through worship our souls stay level, grounded, and authentic.
It’s not sustainable or healthy to protect an inflated persona or to maintain that image. Rather, it’s incredibly liberating to live as a unique creation of God.
Today’s question: What Scriptures, hymns, or Christian songs help you maintain a level soul? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “Our relationship with God- based on birth”
