Out of the Depths

A Songwriter's Journey Through the Psalms

Christian - Non-Fiction
206 Pages
Reviewed on 02/07/2014
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Author Biography

Rick Lee James is a professional singer and songwriter, a gifted speaker, worship leader, author and Podcast host who has worked with the likes of Jason Gray, Andrew Peterson, Sara Groves, Michael Card, Brian Zahnd, Tripp York, Brett Mccracken, Ian Morgan Cron and many more. In 2013 Rick released his first Live album of original songs called, Basement Psalms Live. Rick wrote a book to accompany the album called, Out of the Depths, which released in 2014. Rick has also been a contributing writer for Worship Leader Magazine and has had a number of songs published by Lifeway Worship, including, I Lift Up My Eyes and Advent Hymn.

    Book Review

Reviewed by Dinorah Blackman for Readers' Favorite

Out of the Depths is a songwriter’s attempt to bring the biblical Psalms to life. As he explores his own existence, not withholding his deepest, sometimes intimate thoughts and ideas, Rick Lee James draws you into a lifestyle of worship and praise. His analysis of each Psalm is profound and it’s only done through the eyes of Jesus and his love for us. Whether they’re talking about social issues, evil, praise, or vengeance, Rick Lee James is quick to point out those Psalms that don’t line up with the teachings of Jesus. He leads the reader into an in-depth understanding that the Old Testament must not be discarded, but studied in the light of the New Testament and what was accomplished on the cross. Rick Lee James shares personal anecdotes about his journey as a Christian song writer and his struggle with self-loathing and lack of confidence, but gives the reader hope as he emphasizes that we’re all beautiful in God’s sight. The love of God comes to life in these pages.

Out of the Depths is a very inspirational book about making God a priority in your daily life. A spiritual experience with God has to be relevant and updated. But it also has to be personal. Each individual worshiper needs to discover the beauty and the glory of God personally. Rick James Lee offers the opportunity to draw near to God through exploration of the Psalms. The book offers a historical account on the writers of these songs and poems we have come to love and quote. Using examples that are easy to understand, the author states his point of view regarding free will and personal responsibility. He also touches on the delicate issues that churches in America face today. This book is a must-read for Christians interested in worshiping God at a deeper level.