Transistor (https://transistor.fm) https://feeds.transistor.fm/chunks-the-book-of-psalms If the Bible had a hymnal, it would be the book of Psalms. This diverse collection of 150 poems and prayers runs the gamut of emotion and experience, from songs of highest praise to the deepest depths of lament, from prayers for help and salvation to vehement curses against the psalmist's enemies. We will not cover all the psalms in this podcast, nor take them in order. But my hope is that each episode will help you connect more personally with the riches of the Psalms. All biblical passages will be read from the New International Version, unless otherwise noted. Copyright 2025 Cameron Lee. All rights reserved. 5f403137-3680-5af7-a832-4b123cac4442 no en Wed, 10 Sep 2025 15:18:47 -0700 Tue, 02 Dec 2025 23:30:23 -0800 https://chunks-psalms.transistor.fm/ https://img.transistor.fm/HLOMnfVj9lgV3TcG-NjjpHyK7sAkhUwkdVEf9x5Dgj4/rs:fill:0:0:1/w:1400/h:1400/q:60/mb:500000/aHR0cHM6Ly9pbWct/dXBsb2FkLXByb2R1/Y3Rpb24udHJhbnNp/c3Rvci5mbS81OGU5/YTlmZTk0ZmFmZWZl/OTk0NTgyNDEyMTBj/MDM0ZC5qcGc.jpg https://chunks-psalms.transistor.fm/ serial Cameron Lee If the Bible had a hymnal, it would be the book of Psalms. This diverse collection of 150 poems and prayers runs the gamut of emotion and experience, from songs of highest praise to the deepest depths of lament, from prayers for help and salvation to vehement curses against the psalmist's enemies. We will not cover all the psalms in this podcast, nor take them in order. But my hope is that each episode will help you connect more personally with the riches of the Psalms. All biblical passages will be read from the New International Version, unless otherwise noted. If the Bible had a hymnal, it would be the book of Psalms. Bible, Old Testament, Psalms Cameron Lee drcameronlee@gmail.com No No 1 1 Episode 1: Why read the Psalms? full 9fd56862-3a1b-4b99-8cfe-590cd65d393a https://share.transistor.fm/s/fe9592a1 In 2020, the year the COVID-19 pandemic threw my family and the world for a loop, I began my practice of reading and journaling on the Psalms every morning. They have been a source of stability for me in unstable times, as I hope they will be for you. In this podcast, we won’t cover all 150 psalms. My purpose is to invite you to think of the Psalms as songs we can take with us on the journey of life, especially when the road gets long and difficult.

]]> In 2020, the year the COVID-19 pandemic threw my family and the world for a loop, I began my practice of reading and journaling on the Psalms every morning. They have been a source of stability for me in unstable times, as I hope they will be for you. In this podcast, we won’t cover all 150 psalms. My purpose is to invite you to think of the Psalms as songs we can take with us on the journey of life, especially when the road gets long and difficult.

]]> Thu, 14 Aug 2025 12:48:12 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 447 In 2020, the year the COVID-19 pandemic threw my family and the world for a loop, I began my practice of reading and journaling on the Psalms every morning. They have been a source of stability for me in unstable times, as I hope they will be for you. In this podcast, we won’t cover all 150 psalms. My purpose is to invite you to think of the Psalms as songs we can take with us on the journey of life, especially when the road gets long and difficult.

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 2 2 Episode 2: Soundtrack full 39f6f488-c7d3-40fd-822f-989dcb07ac8b https://share.transistor.fm/s/e536bbf4 What we call the Old Testament was what Jesus had as Scripture, and he quoted from it frequently, particularly the Psalms and Prophets. In this episode, I propose that we think of the Psalms as the soundtrack to the gospels, indeed to the New Testament itself. Can we begin to think of the Psalms not merely as songs we sing to match what we feel—sad songs, happy songs—but to shape how we see life itself? We’re invited to sing along.

]]> What we call the Old Testament was what Jesus had as Scripture, and he quoted from it frequently, particularly the Psalms and Prophets. In this episode, I propose that we think of the Psalms as the soundtrack to the gospels, indeed to the New Testament itself. Can we begin to think of the Psalms not merely as songs we sing to match what we feel—sad songs, happy songs—but to shape how we see life itself? We’re invited to sing along.

]]> Thu, 14 Aug 2025 12:48:38 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 548 What we call the Old Testament was what Jesus had as Scripture, and he quoted from it frequently, particularly the Psalms and Prophets. In this episode, I propose that we think of the Psalms as the soundtrack to the gospels, indeed to the New Testament itself. Can we begin to think of the Psalms not merely as songs we sing to match what we feel—sad songs, happy songs—but to shape how we see life itself? We’re invited to sing along.

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 3 3 Episode 3: Call to worship full dff9c229-0b86-43da-98de-72acbd5865f9 https://share.transistor.fm/s/1a7e896a Where should we begin our exploration of 150 psalms? We’ll come back to Psalm 1 soon, but here, we’ll begin with Psalm 95. It’s a short psalm that illustrates well some of the elements we’ll see in other psalms. And if you’re used to singing contemporary praise choruses on Sunday morning, some of the psalm should sound quite familiar…

]]> Where should we begin our exploration of 150 psalms? We’ll come back to Psalm 1 soon, but here, we’ll begin with Psalm 95. It’s a short psalm that illustrates well some of the elements we’ll see in other psalms. And if you’re used to singing contemporary praise choruses on Sunday morning, some of the psalm should sound quite familiar…

]]> Thu, 14 Aug 2025 12:49:13 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 404 Where should we begin our exploration of 150 psalms? We’ll come back to Psalm 1 soon, but here, we’ll begin with Psalm 95. It’s a short psalm that illustrates well some of the elements we’ll see in other psalms. And if you’re used to singing contemporary praise choruses on Sunday morning, some of the psalm should sound quite familiar…

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 4 4 Episode 4: Call to listen full 52062e81-d278-400e-a9dc-2a0604879d97 https://share.transistor.fm/s/004a4f6b Some psalms are songs or poems of praise; others are songs of lament or complaint. And often, both praise and lament are woven together in the same psalm. Psalm 95 is a case in point. If the first part of the psalm is a call to worship, the second is a call to listen to God’s voice—a call that is given against the background of a history of the disobedience of God’s people.

]]> Some psalms are songs or poems of praise; others are songs of lament or complaint. And often, both praise and lament are woven together in the same psalm. Psalm 95 is a case in point. If the first part of the psalm is a call to worship, the second is a call to listen to God’s voice—a call that is given against the background of a history of the disobedience of God’s people.

]]> Thu, 14 Aug 2025 12:49:41 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 530 Some psalms are songs or poems of praise; others are songs of lament or complaint. And often, both praise and lament are woven together in the same psalm. Psalm 95 is a case in point. If the first part of the psalm is a call to worship, the second is a call to listen to God’s voice—a call that is given against the background of a history of the disobedience of God’s people.

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 5 5 Episode 5: The fork in the road full 6a09968a-90c7-4079-828a-a1ff0920ceed https://share.transistor.fm/s/5e05c2e5 If you were given the task of organizing 150 psalms into a collection, where would you begin? What psalm would you put first? Psalm 1 is the first psalm for a reason. In a mere six verses, it sets forth a foundational worldview that permeates the whole collection: in life, there are two paths from which to choose. One is the path of righteousness that leads to blessing; the other is the path of wickedness that leads to destruction. Which path will God’s people choose?
 

]]> If you were given the task of organizing 150 psalms into a collection, where would you begin? What psalm would you put first? Psalm 1 is the first psalm for a reason. In a mere six verses, it sets forth a foundational worldview that permeates the whole collection: in life, there are two paths from which to choose. One is the path of righteousness that leads to blessing; the other is the path of wickedness that leads to destruction. Which path will God’s people choose?
 

]]> Thu, 14 Aug 2025 12:50:19 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 493 If you were given the task of organizing 150 psalms into a collection, where would you begin? What psalm would you put first? Psalm 1 is the first psalm for a reason. In a mere six verses, it sets forth a foundational worldview that permeates the whole collection: in life, there are two paths from which to choose. One is the path of righteousness that leads to blessing; the other is the path of wickedness that leads to destruction. Which path will God’s people choose?
 

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 6 6 Episode 6: Inheritance full 70dfcdd6-77fa-47c2-a73f-d737a3c20d2e https://share.transistor.fm/s/c212eecb Psalm 1 seems to promise that anyone who is obedient to God’s Law (Torah) will live a blessed and fruitful life. But things don’t always work out that way; sometimes, it’s the wicked who prosper and the righteous who suffer. That disconnect is the subject of Psalm 37, which was written to teach God’s people wisdom. Don’t fret, the psalmist says, even when things seem out of joint. You will still have your inheritance.

]]> Psalm 1 seems to promise that anyone who is obedient to God’s Law (Torah) will live a blessed and fruitful life. But things don’t always work out that way; sometimes, it’s the wicked who prosper and the righteous who suffer. That disconnect is the subject of Psalm 37, which was written to teach God’s people wisdom. Don’t fret, the psalmist says, even when things seem out of joint. You will still have your inheritance.

]]> Thu, 14 Aug 2025 12:50:48 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 520 Psalm 1 seems to promise that anyone who is obedient to God’s Law (Torah) will live a blessed and fruitful life. But things don’t always work out that way; sometimes, it’s the wicked who prosper and the righteous who suffer. That disconnect is the subject of Psalm 37, which was written to teach God’s people wisdom. Don’t fret, the psalmist says, even when things seem out of joint. You will still have your inheritance.

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 7 7 Episode 7: When life isn’t fair full 42576f94-92fc-425a-98f4-13a40a43bcd2 https://share.transistor.fm/s/1e8e2b9f Psalm 37 raises the question of why the wicked seems to prosper, contradicting the worldview of Psalm 1. It seems unfair. The psalmist tells God’s people not to fret or get angry, but to wait, to be patient, to be still. But can we really do this? What does the psalmist mean by patience and stillness? 

]]> Psalm 37 raises the question of why the wicked seems to prosper, contradicting the worldview of Psalm 1. It seems unfair. The psalmist tells God’s people not to fret or get angry, but to wait, to be patient, to be still. But can we really do this? What does the psalmist mean by patience and stillness? 

]]> Thu, 14 Aug 2025 12:51:26 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 593 Psalm 37 raises the question of why the wicked seems to prosper, contradicting the worldview of Psalm 1. It seems unfair. The psalmist tells God’s people not to fret or get angry, but to wait, to be patient, to be still. But can we really do this? What does the psalmist mean by patience and stillness? 

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 8 8 Episode 8: Meekness and weakness full e8c5b2c5-6013-496f-b7fd-03aea2f4169e https://share.transistor.fm/s/3bc1891d In the so-called Beatitudes at the beginning of the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus says, “Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.” It’s a quote from Psalm 37. But what does it mean to be “meek”? The word the psalmist uses is an important one, and it doesn’t mean what we usually mean by meekness. 

]]> In the so-called Beatitudes at the beginning of the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus says, “Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.” It’s a quote from Psalm 37. But what does it mean to be “meek”? The word the psalmist uses is an important one, and it doesn’t mean what we usually mean by meekness. 

]]> Thu, 14 Aug 2025 12:51:53 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 498 In the so-called Beatitudes at the beginning of the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus says, “Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.” It’s a quote from Psalm 37. But what does it mean to be “meek”? The word the psalmist uses is an important one, and it doesn’t mean what we usually mean by meekness. 

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 9 9 Episode 9: A story of hope full ddbe4b9c-ca3a-41f7-9fbc-c0db6a33fca8 https://share.transistor.fm/s/aa2ac22e When we face serious ongoing challenges, we feel the need for hope, and the Psalms can help. But we can do more than just turn to the Psalms for a spiritual pep talk; we can learn how the psalmists see life. We’ll explore that theme using Psalm 30 as an example; it’s a song of hope by someone who was ill but by the grace of God recovered.

]]> When we face serious ongoing challenges, we feel the need for hope, and the Psalms can help. But we can do more than just turn to the Psalms for a spiritual pep talk; we can learn how the psalmists see life. We’ll explore that theme using Psalm 30 as an example; it’s a song of hope by someone who was ill but by the grace of God recovered.

]]> Thu, 14 Aug 2025 12:52:21 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 441 When we face serious ongoing challenges, we feel the need for hope, and the Psalms can help. But we can do more than just turn to the Psalms for a spiritual pep talk; we can learn how the psalmists see life. We’ll explore that theme using Psalm 30 as an example; it’s a song of hope by someone who was ill but by the grace of God recovered.

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 10 10 Episode 10: What chapter are we in? full 345ca58b-df6b-4401-bd2f-31bb31e9108a https://share.transistor.fm/s/09e06052 Psalm 30 is not a simple story of hope, as if the psalmist merely fell ill and was healed. The background story is complex enough to be worthy of memoir. Our own stories are similarly complicated. To be hopeful is not simply to expect that God will fix what’s wrong with our stories; it’s knowing that our stories are part of God’s story. 

]]> Psalm 30 is not a simple story of hope, as if the psalmist merely fell ill and was healed. The background story is complex enough to be worthy of memoir. Our own stories are similarly complicated. To be hopeful is not simply to expect that God will fix what’s wrong with our stories; it’s knowing that our stories are part of God’s story. 

]]> Thu, 14 Aug 2025 12:52:52 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 418 Psalm 30 is not a simple story of hope, as if the psalmist merely fell ill and was healed. The background story is complex enough to be worthy of memoir. Our own stories are similarly complicated. To be hopeful is not simply to expect that God will fix what’s wrong with our stories; it’s knowing that our stories are part of God’s story. 

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 11 11 Episode 11: Loving the law full 73723782-d18b-4e55-a034-87fef4bcafcb https://share.transistor.fm/s/d1780b5d Sometimes, as Christians, we prioritize the New Testament in a way that doesn’t properly understand or respect the Old. We may stereotype the Old Testament as being about law, and the New Testament about grace. When we think that way, Psalm 119—the longest psalm and the longest chapter in the Bible!—may seem odd. The psalmist goes on and on about loving God’s Law. If we’re going to appreciate the psalm, we’ll need to understand why it’s so long…
 

]]> Sometimes, as Christians, we prioritize the New Testament in a way that doesn’t properly understand or respect the Old. We may stereotype the Old Testament as being about law, and the New Testament about grace. When we think that way, Psalm 119—the longest psalm and the longest chapter in the Bible!—may seem odd. The psalmist goes on and on about loving God’s Law. If we’re going to appreciate the psalm, we’ll need to understand why it’s so long…
 

]]> Thu, 14 Aug 2025 12:53:18 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 518 Sometimes, as Christians, we prioritize the New Testament in a way that doesn’t properly understand or respect the Old. We may stereotype the Old Testament as being about law, and the New Testament about grace. When we think that way, Psalm 119—the longest psalm and the longest chapter in the Bible!—may seem odd. The psalmist goes on and on about loving God’s Law. If we’re going to appreciate the psalm, we’ll need to understand why it’s so long…
 

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 12 12 Episode 12: From A to Z full 532103f7-31f0-4ea7-af43-f64313a384cb https://share.transistor.fm/s/d2155d89 Understanding Psalm 119 requires appreciating its artistry. The structure is complex and would be difficult for any poet to achieve. But that complexity serves a symbolic purpose, contributing to the psalm’s message: God’s Law—Torah—applies to all of life, and is so foundational that we should be devoted to learning like we would learn our ABC’s. 

]]> Understanding Psalm 119 requires appreciating its artistry. The structure is complex and would be difficult for any poet to achieve. But that complexity serves a symbolic purpose, contributing to the psalm’s message: God’s Law—Torah—applies to all of life, and is so foundational that we should be devoted to learning like we would learn our ABC’s. 

]]> Thu, 14 Aug 2025 12:53:54 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 533 Understanding Psalm 119 requires appreciating its artistry. The structure is complex and would be difficult for any poet to achieve. But that complexity serves a symbolic purpose, contributing to the psalm’s message: God’s Law—Torah—applies to all of life, and is so foundational that we should be devoted to learning like we would learn our ABC’s. 

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 13 13 Episode 13: The ideal and the real full 2a3378a7-bb7b-47cc-969b-a86f8b154519 https://share.transistor.fm/s/553a313f Remember Psalm 1? That psalm taught us that there are two paths in life, one of righteousness and blessing, and the other of wickedness and destruction. The way of blessedness comes through meditation on Torah. In that sense, we might think of Psalm 119 as the sequel to Psalm 1—but one that introduces a realistic perspective that laments how even those who are devoted to Torah still suffer.

]]> Remember Psalm 1? That psalm taught us that there are two paths in life, one of righteousness and blessing, and the other of wickedness and destruction. The way of blessedness comes through meditation on Torah. In that sense, we might think of Psalm 119 as the sequel to Psalm 1—but one that introduces a realistic perspective that laments how even those who are devoted to Torah still suffer.

]]> Thu, 14 Aug 2025 12:54:18 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 543 Remember Psalm 1? That psalm taught us that there are two paths in life, one of righteousness and blessing, and the other of wickedness and destruction. The way of blessedness comes through meditation on Torah. In that sense, we might think of Psalm 119 as the sequel to Psalm 1—but one that introduces a realistic perspective that laments how even those who are devoted to Torah still suffer.

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 14 14 Episode 14: Celebrating creation—and its Creator full a4627409-e131-48cc-b419-5d1a940c743d https://share.transistor.fm/s/68b355fc Studying the Psalms can give us some much-needed perspective. Through them, we learn to see a bigger picture of life. Psalms 1 and 119 help us see the world as the psalmists do—and so does Psalm 104. If Psalm 119 is an ode to Torah, Psalm 104 is an ode to creation and its Creator, one that teaches us what it means to declare, “Hallelujah!”

]]> Studying the Psalms can give us some much-needed perspective. Through them, we learn to see a bigger picture of life. Psalms 1 and 119 help us see the world as the psalmists do—and so does Psalm 104. If Psalm 119 is an ode to Torah, Psalm 104 is an ode to creation and its Creator, one that teaches us what it means to declare, “Hallelujah!”

]]> Thu, 14 Aug 2025 12:54:50 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 503 Studying the Psalms can give us some much-needed perspective. Through them, we learn to see a bigger picture of life. Psalms 1 and 119 help us see the world as the psalmists do—and so does Psalm 104. If Psalm 119 is an ode to Torah, Psalm 104 is an ode to creation and its Creator, one that teaches us what it means to declare, “Hallelujah!”

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 15 15 Episode 15: The one who created us is the one who cares for us full 2630a66e-da3b-4268-8dfd-106dc0802596 https://share.transistor.fm/s/6528896e We live in a world in which the stereotypical understanding of power doesn’t include care. But that’s not the psalmist’s understanding of God. Psalm 104 begins with a portrait of the unimaginable cosmic might of the Creator—but then also portrays God as being intimately involved in caring for his creation. It’s an image that Jesus would later use to teach his hearers to trust God.

]]> We live in a world in which the stereotypical understanding of power doesn’t include care. But that’s not the psalmist’s understanding of God. Psalm 104 begins with a portrait of the unimaginable cosmic might of the Creator—but then also portrays God as being intimately involved in caring for his creation. It’s an image that Jesus would later use to teach his hearers to trust God.

]]> Thu, 14 Aug 2025 12:55:16 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 428 We live in a world in which the stereotypical understanding of power doesn’t include care. But that’s not the psalmist’s understanding of God. Psalm 104 begins with a portrait of the unimaginable cosmic might of the Creator—but then also portrays God as being intimately involved in caring for his creation. It’s an image that Jesus would later use to teach his hearers to trust God.

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 16 16 Episode 16: Wild kingdom full bcf42153-c6e1-447a-a862-64ddadfc8f1b https://share.transistor.fm/s/e327680a Psalm 104, as we’ve seen, gives a worshipful portrait of God as the one who both creates all that is and then cares for his creation. But seemingly out of the blue, in the midst of rejoicing and praise, the psalmist blurts out one line of cursing. How might we understand these words, which seem so out of place?

]]> Psalm 104, as we’ve seen, gives a worshipful portrait of God as the one who both creates all that is and then cares for his creation. But seemingly out of the blue, in the midst of rejoicing and praise, the psalmist blurts out one line of cursing. How might we understand these words, which seem so out of place?

]]> Thu, 14 Aug 2025 12:55:54 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 499 Psalm 104, as we’ve seen, gives a worshipful portrait of God as the one who both creates all that is and then cares for his creation. But seemingly out of the blue, in the midst of rejoicing and praise, the psalmist blurts out one line of cursing. How might we understand these words, which seem so out of place?

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 17 17 Episode 17: Praising God in the darkness full 2aae4e3f-6a1e-4d75-9eda-c842e5583c95 https://share.transistor.fm/s/6867a852 As suggested before, there are psalms of praise and psalms of lament, and we don’t have far to look to find the latter. Psalms 1 and 2 are foundational in different ways. Then Psalms 3 to 7 give us five straight prayers for help. Then comes Psalm 8, which begins and ends on the same note: praising God for the majesty of his name.

]]> As suggested before, there are psalms of praise and psalms of lament, and we don’t have far to look to find the latter. Psalms 1 and 2 are foundational in different ways. Then Psalms 3 to 7 give us five straight prayers for help. Then comes Psalm 8, which begins and ends on the same note: praising God for the majesty of his name.

]]> Thu, 14 Aug 2025 12:56:19 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 506 As suggested before, there are psalms of praise and psalms of lament, and we don’t have far to look to find the latter. Psalms 1 and 2 are foundational in different ways. Then Psalms 3 to 7 give us five straight prayers for help. Then comes Psalm 8, which begins and ends on the same note: praising God for the majesty of his name.

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 18 18 Episode 18: Feeling small full e4f15374-1da0-47d3-aa53-0160b83d4938 https://share.transistor.fm/s/2d95c0f1 Like Psalm 104, Psalm 8 is a “creation psalm,” a psalm of praise for the marvels of creation and its Creator. Imagine the psalmist gazing up into the heavens on a clear night, in a day before the perpetual haze of city lights existed. Awed by the vast spectacle of the night sky, the psalmist felt small by comparison—which made the psalmist marvel even more that God would pay attention to human beings.  

]]> Like Psalm 104, Psalm 8 is a “creation psalm,” a psalm of praise for the marvels of creation and its Creator. Imagine the psalmist gazing up into the heavens on a clear night, in a day before the perpetual haze of city lights existed. Awed by the vast spectacle of the night sky, the psalmist felt small by comparison—which made the psalmist marvel even more that God would pay attention to human beings.  

]]> Thu, 14 Aug 2025 12:56:52 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 495 Like Psalm 104, Psalm 8 is a “creation psalm,” a psalm of praise for the marvels of creation and its Creator. Imagine the psalmist gazing up into the heavens on a clear night, in a day before the perpetual haze of city lights existed. Awed by the vast spectacle of the night sky, the psalmist felt small by comparison—which made the psalmist marvel even more that God would pay attention to human beings.  

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 19 19 Episode 19: Fingerprints full 3e129d1a-c74e-4fe5-ada1-806f7d57639e https://share.transistor.fm/s/92deea05 We may be used to speaking of creation as the work of God’s hands—or even “hand” in the singular. We never say that it’s the work of God’s “fingers.” But that’s how Psalm 8 reads. It’s an image of meticulous craftmanship, applied not only to the moon and stars, but to human beings. Might we see ourselves and others as bearing God’s fingerprints?

]]> We may be used to speaking of creation as the work of God’s hands—or even “hand” in the singular. We never say that it’s the work of God’s “fingers.” But that’s how Psalm 8 reads. It’s an image of meticulous craftmanship, applied not only to the moon and stars, but to human beings. Might we see ourselves and others as bearing God’s fingerprints?

]]> Thu, 14 Aug 2025 12:57:21 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 477 We may be used to speaking of creation as the work of God’s hands—or even “hand” in the singular. We never say that it’s the work of God’s “fingers.” But that’s how Psalm 8 reads. It’s an image of meticulous craftmanship, applied not only to the moon and stars, but to human beings. Might we see ourselves and others as bearing God’s fingerprints?

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 20 20 Episode 20: Rulers full 0ffb9c81-8460-4d6d-8e88-28f1e1c6d679 https://share.transistor.fm/s/d318341e Many Christians suffer from self-doubt, from a sense of somehow “not being enough.” And in a culture of shame, the words of Psalm 8, wondering why God should even pay attention to human beings, can sound timid or belittling. But the psalmist isn’t done. Human beings may seem small compared to the vastness of the universe, but God has made them to be vice-regents (co-rulers, if you will) over creation. Psalm 8 should teach us humility rather than shame.

]]> Many Christians suffer from self-doubt, from a sense of somehow “not being enough.” And in a culture of shame, the words of Psalm 8, wondering why God should even pay attention to human beings, can sound timid or belittling. But the psalmist isn’t done. Human beings may seem small compared to the vastness of the universe, but God has made them to be vice-regents (co-rulers, if you will) over creation. Psalm 8 should teach us humility rather than shame.

]]> Thu, 14 Aug 2025 12:57:56 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 568 Many Christians suffer from self-doubt, from a sense of somehow “not being enough.” And in a culture of shame, the words of Psalm 8, wondering why God should even pay attention to human beings, can sound timid or belittling. But the psalmist isn’t done. Human beings may seem small compared to the vastness of the universe, but God has made them to be vice-regents (co-rulers, if you will) over creation. Psalm 8 should teach us humility rather than shame.

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 21 21 Episode 21: We interrupt this praise full c0e91e43-773b-4f57-8c83-5ad497556cbb https://share.transistor.fm/s/883490a2 When we come to church to worship and sing, we expect to be uplifted and encouraged. When we interact with others, we follow an implicit rule of niceness. But some psalms contain brutal words of cursing and hatred. Psalm 139 is one such psalm—and the cursing comes in the context of some of the most beautiful words of humility and praise in Scripture.
 

]]> When we come to church to worship and sing, we expect to be uplifted and encouraged. When we interact with others, we follow an implicit rule of niceness. But some psalms contain brutal words of cursing and hatred. Psalm 139 is one such psalm—and the cursing comes in the context of some of the most beautiful words of humility and praise in Scripture.
 

]]> Thu, 14 Aug 2025 12:58:21 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 471 When we come to church to worship and sing, we expect to be uplifted and encouraged. When we interact with others, we follow an implicit rule of niceness. But some psalms contain brutal words of cursing and hatred. Psalm 139 is one such psalm—and the cursing comes in the context of some of the most beautiful words of humility and praise in Scripture.
 

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 22 22 Episode 22: Love your enemies—really full 4aa19e72-c508-4f3e-b246-0c3753bb18b6 https://share.transistor.fm/s/01bd94d0 In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus confronts what his hearers have been taught. While they had been told to love their neighbor and hate their enemy, Jesus taught them to love their enemies instead. Nowhere in Scripture are God’s people taught to hate their enemies—but Psalm 139 comes close. So are we justified in our anger or not? 

]]> In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus confronts what his hearers have been taught. While they had been told to love their neighbor and hate their enemy, Jesus taught them to love their enemies instead. Nowhere in Scripture are God’s people taught to hate their enemies—but Psalm 139 comes close. So are we justified in our anger or not? 

]]> Thu, 14 Aug 2025 12:58:57 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 609 In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus confronts what his hearers have been taught. While they had been told to love their neighbor and hate their enemy, Jesus taught them to love their enemies instead. Nowhere in Scripture are God’s people taught to hate their enemies—but Psalm 139 comes close. So are we justified in our anger or not? 

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 23 23 Episode 23: Think before you speak full b23032c0-0ffc-448c-9ffd-474a2c5f6afe https://share.transistor.fm/s/5925304a Even when we’ve been taught to be “nice,” we sometimes get carried away with negative emotion and speak without thinking. As we’ve seen, Psalm 139 contains some rather vehement words of hatred. But the psalmist also lives with a deep sense of being known intimately by God. What would happen if we were able to envision Jesus standing next to us as we speak?

]]> Even when we’ve been taught to be “nice,” we sometimes get carried away with negative emotion and speak without thinking. As we’ve seen, Psalm 139 contains some rather vehement words of hatred. But the psalmist also lives with a deep sense of being known intimately by God. What would happen if we were able to envision Jesus standing next to us as we speak?

]]> Thu, 14 Aug 2025 12:59:21 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 539 Even when we’ve been taught to be “nice,” we sometimes get carried away with negative emotion and speak without thinking. As we’ve seen, Psalm 139 contains some rather vehement words of hatred. But the psalmist also lives with a deep sense of being known intimately by God. What would happen if we were able to envision Jesus standing next to us as we speak?

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 24 24 Episode 24: Wherever I go… full ac790187-d1a0-4ed1-b5cd-83fe51ebf45e https://share.transistor.fm/s/f4152f01 As suggested in the previous episode, the psalmist who wrote Psalm 139 marvels at the knowledge of being God’s handiwork. Moreover, the psalmist lives with a deep sense of God’s presence. The psalmist isn’t trying to run or hide from God’s presence, but instead is amazed at the constancy of it, and is secure in God’s love and care.

]]> As suggested in the previous episode, the psalmist who wrote Psalm 139 marvels at the knowledge of being God’s handiwork. Moreover, the psalmist lives with a deep sense of God’s presence. The psalmist isn’t trying to run or hide from God’s presence, but instead is amazed at the constancy of it, and is secure in God’s love and care.

]]> Thu, 14 Aug 2025 12:59:52 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 435 As suggested in the previous episode, the psalmist who wrote Psalm 139 marvels at the knowledge of being God’s handiwork. Moreover, the psalmist lives with a deep sense of God’s presence. The psalmist isn’t trying to run or hide from God’s presence, but instead is amazed at the constancy of it, and is secure in God’s love and care.

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 25 25 Episode 25: Simply wonderful full 26278391-7af6-45db-aa00-f7534266cbc4 https://share.transistor.fm/s/332c1bf0 If Psalms 104 and 8 celebrate the wonders of God’s creation, Psalm 139 celebrates the wonder of being created human. We don’t typically wake up in the morning, look in the mirror, and see someone who is “fearfully and wonderfully made.” But what if we did? What if we saw ourselves and others as being created in God’s image and took that vocation seriously?  

]]> If Psalms 104 and 8 celebrate the wonders of God’s creation, Psalm 139 celebrates the wonder of being created human. We don’t typically wake up in the morning, look in the mirror, and see someone who is “fearfully and wonderfully made.” But what if we did? What if we saw ourselves and others as being created in God’s image and took that vocation seriously?  

]]> Thu, 14 Aug 2025 13:00:14 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 562 If Psalms 104 and 8 celebrate the wonders of God’s creation, Psalm 139 celebrates the wonder of being created human. We don’t typically wake up in the morning, look in the mirror, and see someone who is “fearfully and wonderfully made.” But what if we did? What if we saw ourselves and others as being created in God’s image and took that vocation seriously?  

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 26 26 Episode 26: Sheepish full bd7c5ab3-4e06-42f9-b00c-724c2ede9776 https://share.transistor.fm/s/730ce831 Sheep are sometimes characterized as stupid; when we talk about people as being “sheep,” we mean that they are mindlessly following some leader. But sheep deserve more credit. True, they’re capable of straying. But they’re also capable of having a relationship of trust with a shepherd. Psalm 23, the so-called Shepherd Psalm, is one of the best-known and most beloved of the psalms. If we want to understand it, we will need to admit the ways in which we are like sheep.

]]> Sheep are sometimes characterized as stupid; when we talk about people as being “sheep,” we mean that they are mindlessly following some leader. But sheep deserve more credit. True, they’re capable of straying. But they’re also capable of having a relationship of trust with a shepherd. Psalm 23, the so-called Shepherd Psalm, is one of the best-known and most beloved of the psalms. If we want to understand it, we will need to admit the ways in which we are like sheep.

]]> Thu, 14 Aug 2025 13:00:45 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 403 Sheep are sometimes characterized as stupid; when we talk about people as being “sheep,” we mean that they are mindlessly following some leader. But sheep deserve more credit. True, they’re capable of straying. But they’re also capable of having a relationship of trust with a shepherd. Psalm 23, the so-called Shepherd Psalm, is one of the best-known and most beloved of the psalms. If we want to understand it, we will need to admit the ways in which we are like sheep.

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 27 27 Episode 27: The simple life full a546b65a-3d28-4fed-a332-f31eea6c77c0 https://share.transistor.fm/s/1bec38a3 In our world of ubiquitous advertising, it’s getting harder and harder to tell the difference between a “want” and a “need.” Our homes may be filled with things we thought we needed but never use. The world of the psalmist is simpler, and so is the life of a sheep, as it’s portrayed in Psalm 23. If we’re going to own our sheepishness, are we willing to explore how the things that we really need are the things provided by the divine Shepherd?

]]> In our world of ubiquitous advertising, it’s getting harder and harder to tell the difference between a “want” and a “need.” Our homes may be filled with things we thought we needed but never use. The world of the psalmist is simpler, and so is the life of a sheep, as it’s portrayed in Psalm 23. If we’re going to own our sheepishness, are we willing to explore how the things that we really need are the things provided by the divine Shepherd?

]]> Thu, 14 Aug 2025 13:01:10 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 422 In our world of ubiquitous advertising, it’s getting harder and harder to tell the difference between a “want” and a “need.” Our homes may be filled with things we thought we needed but never use. The world of the psalmist is simpler, and so is the life of a sheep, as it’s portrayed in Psalm 23. If we’re going to own our sheepishness, are we willing to explore how the things that we really need are the things provided by the divine Shepherd?

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 28 28 Episode 28: The dark valley full 8f804ebd-f18e-433a-a3d0-c01e49db6f13 https://share.transistor.fm/s/fb19cf96 The year 2020 was one of the most difficult of my life, as it was for some of you. At times, it felt like a long, dark valley. But as Psalm 23 suggests, even though we as sheep must travel through such dark places, we can trust that the Shepherd knows where to lead us. We don’t need to fear, as long as we are in the Shepherd’s company.

]]> The year 2020 was one of the most difficult of my life, as it was for some of you. At times, it felt like a long, dark valley. But as Psalm 23 suggests, even though we as sheep must travel through such dark places, we can trust that the Shepherd knows where to lead us. We don’t need to fear, as long as we are in the Shepherd’s company.

]]> Thu, 14 Aug 2025 13:01:48 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 461 The year 2020 was one of the most difficult of my life, as it was for some of you. At times, it felt like a long, dark valley. But as Psalm 23 suggests, even though we as sheep must travel through such dark places, we can trust that the Shepherd knows where to lead us. We don’t need to fear, as long as we are in the Shepherd’s company.

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 29 29 Episode 29: Welcome to the banquet full 34769ede-159d-45d9-ae8a-9dec703dbb6d https://share.transistor.fm/s/f0e10fcf Psalm 23 is known as the Shepherd Psalm for an obvious reason. But the relationship between a sheep and a shepherd is not the only metaphor the psalmist uses to portray our relationship to God. We are not just lowly sheep; by the end of the psalm we are honored guests at a banquet given by God. And why? So that all the world can see who really is the one true God.

]]> Psalm 23 is known as the Shepherd Psalm for an obvious reason. But the relationship between a sheep and a shepherd is not the only metaphor the psalmist uses to portray our relationship to God. We are not just lowly sheep; by the end of the psalm we are honored guests at a banquet given by God. And why? So that all the world can see who really is the one true God.

]]> Thu, 14 Aug 2025 13:02:16 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 433 Psalm 23 is known as the Shepherd Psalm for an obvious reason. But the relationship between a sheep and a shepherd is not the only metaphor the psalmist uses to portray our relationship to God. We are not just lowly sheep; by the end of the psalm we are honored guests at a banquet given by God. And why? So that all the world can see who really is the one true God.

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 30 30 Episode 30: Blessing God full 11aca729-a9cd-4401-b025-e6b4d3be4b34 https://share.transistor.fm/s/98481d4d Earlier, we took a close look at Psalm 104—a “creation psalm” that begins and ends with the phrase, “Bless the Lord, my soul” and then adds, “Hallelujah.” That may be the last word of the psalm, but it’s the first “hallelujah” in the Psalter. In this episode, we take a step back to examine Psalm 103—which reads like a prequel to Psalm 104 and gives the reader even more reasons to bless God.

]]> Earlier, we took a close look at Psalm 104—a “creation psalm” that begins and ends with the phrase, “Bless the Lord, my soul” and then adds, “Hallelujah.” That may be the last word of the psalm, but it’s the first “hallelujah” in the Psalter. In this episode, we take a step back to examine Psalm 103—which reads like a prequel to Psalm 104 and gives the reader even more reasons to bless God.

]]> Thu, 14 Aug 2025 13:03:08 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 561 Earlier, we took a close look at Psalm 104—a “creation psalm” that begins and ends with the phrase, “Bless the Lord, my soul” and then adds, “Hallelujah.” That may be the last word of the psalm, but it’s the first “hallelujah” in the Psalter. In this episode, we take a step back to examine Psalm 103—which reads like a prequel to Psalm 104 and gives the reader even more reasons to bless God.

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 31 31 Episode 31: The longsuffering and merciful God full c3b19ebd-960c-46ce-95f8-47eda5281349 https://share.transistor.fm/s/8218634e Psalm 103 is a summons to bless God; the invitation is issued a full six times. We are to bless God not just for what he’s done, but for who he is. Thinking back to God’s words to Moses after the disastrous episode with Aaron and the Golden Calf, the psalmist calls us to remember how God is merciful, gracious, and slow to anger.

]]> Psalm 103 is a summons to bless God; the invitation is issued a full six times. We are to bless God not just for what he’s done, but for who he is. Thinking back to God’s words to Moses after the disastrous episode with Aaron and the Golden Calf, the psalmist calls us to remember how God is merciful, gracious, and slow to anger.

]]> Thu, 14 Aug 2025 13:03:34 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 491 Psalm 103 is a summons to bless God; the invitation is issued a full six times. We are to bless God not just for what he’s done, but for who he is. Thinking back to God’s words to Moses after the disastrous episode with Aaron and the Golden Calf, the psalmist calls us to remember how God is merciful, gracious, and slow to anger.

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 32 32 Episode 32: Bless God, fear God full 85d789bc-ca77-41bb-b604-f13374a572e3 https://share.transistor.fm/s/fd183c38 Psalm 103, again, repeatedly calls God’s people to bless him for who he is and what he has done. It speaks of God’s love and compassion. But the psalmist also declares—three times—that God’s love and compassion is for those who “fear” him. The fear of God is an important biblical theme, especially in the Old Testament. But how can we understand it, without losing hold of our understanding of God’s grace and mercy? 

]]> Psalm 103, again, repeatedly calls God’s people to bless him for who he is and what he has done. It speaks of God’s love and compassion. But the psalmist also declares—three times—that God’s love and compassion is for those who “fear” him. The fear of God is an important biblical theme, especially in the Old Testament. But how can we understand it, without losing hold of our understanding of God’s grace and mercy? 

]]> Thu, 14 Aug 2025 13:04:11 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 485 Psalm 103, again, repeatedly calls God’s people to bless him for who he is and what he has done. It speaks of God’s love and compassion. But the psalmist also declares—three times—that God’s love and compassion is for those who “fear” him. The fear of God is an important biblical theme, especially in the Old Testament. But how can we understand it, without losing hold of our understanding of God’s grace and mercy? 

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 33 33 Episode 33: The fatherhood of God full 5a77c551-1afa-47be-b6c0-5f182ecd7af5 https://share.transistor.fm/s/d09edf9b Jesus taught his disciples to pray to God as their Father. The author of Psalm 103 also portrays God as our Father. But the psalmist says that God has compassion for us because he “remembers that we are dust.” That may sound shaming, as if the psalmist were saying that God is everything and we are therefore nothing. But is that what the psalmist means?

]]> Jesus taught his disciples to pray to God as their Father. The author of Psalm 103 also portrays God as our Father. But the psalmist says that God has compassion for us because he “remembers that we are dust.” That may sound shaming, as if the psalmist were saying that God is everything and we are therefore nothing. But is that what the psalmist means?

]]> Thu, 14 Aug 2025 13:04:43 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 564 Jesus taught his disciples to pray to God as their Father. The author of Psalm 103 also portrays God as our Father. But the psalmist says that God has compassion for us because he “remembers that we are dust.” That may sound shaming, as if the psalmist were saying that God is everything and we are therefore nothing. But is that what the psalmist means?

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 34 34 Episode 34: Retelling the story full 224b205c-05ff-4805-b456-b92d8719f985 https://share.transistor.fm/s/b5dd5f04 We’ve explored Psalms 103 and 104; now we’ll dive into Psalms 105 and 106, which should be read back to back (and after, we’ll look at Psalm 107 as well). Psalms 105 and 106 are both examples of so-called historical psalms, whose purpose is to retell some of the history of God’s relationship to his people. The two psalms are like two sides of a coin, first recounting the history in a positive way, then coming back and humbly adding the negative. 

]]> We’ve explored Psalms 103 and 104; now we’ll dive into Psalms 105 and 106, which should be read back to back (and after, we’ll look at Psalm 107 as well). Psalms 105 and 106 are both examples of so-called historical psalms, whose purpose is to retell some of the history of God’s relationship to his people. The two psalms are like two sides of a coin, first recounting the history in a positive way, then coming back and humbly adding the negative. 

]]> Thu, 14 Aug 2025 20:00:47 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 439 We’ve explored Psalms 103 and 104; now we’ll dive into Psalms 105 and 106, which should be read back to back (and after, we’ll look at Psalm 107 as well). Psalms 105 and 106 are both examples of so-called historical psalms, whose purpose is to retell some of the history of God’s relationship to his people. The two psalms are like two sides of a coin, first recounting the history in a positive way, then coming back and humbly adding the negative. 

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 35 35 Episode 35: Superstition is not worship full ff4f062b-f5de-4ddc-a054-94ab83227306 https://share.transistor.fm/s/c1a59861 When King David brought the ark of the covenant to Jerusalem, he had a song written for the occasion. As mentioned in the previous episode, the song—which can be found in 1 Chronicles 16—gives form and content to Psalms 105 and 106. Psalm 105, again, is celebratory. But in Psalm 106, the psalmist reminds the people of the danger of mistaking superstition for true worship. 

]]> When King David brought the ark of the covenant to Jerusalem, he had a song written for the occasion. As mentioned in the previous episode, the song—which can be found in 1 Chronicles 16—gives form and content to Psalms 105 and 106. Psalm 105, again, is celebratory. But in Psalm 106, the psalmist reminds the people of the danger of mistaking superstition for true worship. 

]]> Thu, 14 Aug 2025 20:01:19 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 455 When King David brought the ark of the covenant to Jerusalem, he had a song written for the occasion. As mentioned in the previous episode, the song—which can be found in 1 Chronicles 16—gives form and content to Psalms 105 and 106. Psalm 105, again, is celebratory. But in Psalm 106, the psalmist reminds the people of the danger of mistaking superstition for true worship. 

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 36 36 Episode 36: Editing the story full b526228b-7c24-45e0-a2e8-6de394624c23 https://share.transistor.fm/s/92c21088 You’ve heard some of the reasons to read Psalms 105 and 106 together; now it’s time to examine each psalm more closely, beginning with Psalm 105. It begins with David’s song of celebration at the return of the ark, then runs quickly through centuries of history: Joseph’s rise to power in Egypt; Moses and the Exodus; God’s faithfulness to the people in the wilderness. The whole psalm is a celebration of God’s faithfulness. We’ll have to wait for Psalm 106 for the story of the people’s faithlessness.

]]> You’ve heard some of the reasons to read Psalms 105 and 106 together; now it’s time to examine each psalm more closely, beginning with Psalm 105. It begins with David’s song of celebration at the return of the ark, then runs quickly through centuries of history: Joseph’s rise to power in Egypt; Moses and the Exodus; God’s faithfulness to the people in the wilderness. The whole psalm is a celebration of God’s faithfulness. We’ll have to wait for Psalm 106 for the story of the people’s faithlessness.

]]> Thu, 14 Aug 2025 20:01:43 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 465 You’ve heard some of the reasons to read Psalms 105 and 106 together; now it’s time to examine each psalm more closely, beginning with Psalm 105. It begins with David’s song of celebration at the return of the ark, then runs quickly through centuries of history: Joseph’s rise to power in Egypt; Moses and the Exodus; God’s faithfulness to the people in the wilderness. The whole psalm is a celebration of God’s faithfulness. We’ll have to wait for Psalm 106 for the story of the people’s faithlessness.

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 37 37 Episode 37: The whole truth (part 1) full 71b0eafb-1dbf-451e-9f45-7d0693c257e9 https://share.transistor.fm/s/fecfda5d If our life story was to be told in front of others, would we want the whole truth to be told? Probably not. But the psalmists knew that the story of God’s faithfulness would not be complete without the story of the human response on the other side of the covenant relationship. Though Psalm 106 begins and ends with a “Hallelujah,” it is an honest confession of the people’s faithless sin. The psalm may have been written during or after the Babylonian exile, when the people’s failure could not be denied.

]]> If our life story was to be told in front of others, would we want the whole truth to be told? Probably not. But the psalmists knew that the story of God’s faithfulness would not be complete without the story of the human response on the other side of the covenant relationship. Though Psalm 106 begins and ends with a “Hallelujah,” it is an honest confession of the people’s faithless sin. The psalm may have been written during or after the Babylonian exile, when the people’s failure could not be denied.

]]> Thu, 14 Aug 2025 20:02:16 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 493 If our life story was to be told in front of others, would we want the whole truth to be told? Probably not. But the psalmists knew that the story of God’s faithfulness would not be complete without the story of the human response on the other side of the covenant relationship. Though Psalm 106 begins and ends with a “Hallelujah,” it is an honest confession of the people’s faithless sin. The psalm may have been written during or after the Babylonian exile, when the people’s failure could not be denied.

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 38 38 Episode 38: The whole truth (part 2) full 3b3185eb-9371-48ee-8890-bd32b37baffb https://share.transistor.fm/s/4fd5850b Try to imagine the enormity of the miracle God did through Moses at the Red Sea. Could anyone experience that and not believe in God, in God’s power and compassion? After that, could any of God’s people forget what they owed to God? If we only read Psalm 105, we’d think the answer would be no. But Psalm 106 recalls the events of Exodus 16 and 17, and how quickly the people forgot God’s mercy. 

]]> Try to imagine the enormity of the miracle God did through Moses at the Red Sea. Could anyone experience that and not believe in God, in God’s power and compassion? After that, could any of God’s people forget what they owed to God? If we only read Psalm 105, we’d think the answer would be no. But Psalm 106 recalls the events of Exodus 16 and 17, and how quickly the people forgot God’s mercy. 

]]> Thu, 14 Aug 2025 20:02:40 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 510 Try to imagine the enormity of the miracle God did through Moses at the Red Sea. Could anyone experience that and not believe in God, in God’s power and compassion? After that, could any of God’s people forget what they owed to God? If we only read Psalm 105, we’d think the answer would be no. But Psalm 106 recalls the events of Exodus 16 and 17, and how quickly the people forgot God’s mercy. 

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 39 39 Episode 39: The last word full bbb913fc-6734-4902-8285-69b99635a9ce https://share.transistor.fm/s/9640e102 God’s history of faithfulness to his people demands their faithful response in return. But Psalm 106 recalls episode after episode of sin and rebellion, culminating in the people being conquered by Assyria and Bablyon and taken away into captivity. But that is not the end of the story. The psalmist still believes in and prays for God’s mercy, and in hope, the psalm ends on a note of praise.

]]> God’s history of faithfulness to his people demands their faithful response in return. But Psalm 106 recalls episode after episode of sin and rebellion, culminating in the people being conquered by Assyria and Bablyon and taken away into captivity. But that is not the end of the story. The psalmist still believes in and prays for God’s mercy, and in hope, the psalm ends on a note of praise.

]]> Thu, 14 Aug 2025 20:03:17 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 412 God’s history of faithfulness to his people demands their faithful response in return. But Psalm 106 recalls episode after episode of sin and rebellion, culminating in the people being conquered by Assyria and Bablyon and taken away into captivity. But that is not the end of the story. The psalmist still believes in and prays for God’s mercy, and in hope, the psalm ends on a note of praise.

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 40 40 Episode 40: Insert trouble here full 54d26296-42a9-4618-a35c-e5369b33d6cc https://share.transistor.fm/s/f6d80585 The Psalter is divided into five books. Psalm 106 is the last psalm of Book IV. Psalm 107 then sets the tone for Book V by repeating the opening words of Psalm 106: “Give thanks to the LORD for he is good; his love endures forever.” God is to be praised as the Redeemer, and the psalm presents four paradigmatic stories in which God redeemed people from trouble. Whatever tale our own stories may tell, can we imagine ourselves as part of the story of The God Who Redeems?

]]> The Psalter is divided into five books. Psalm 106 is the last psalm of Book IV. Psalm 107 then sets the tone for Book V by repeating the opening words of Psalm 106: “Give thanks to the LORD for he is good; his love endures forever.” God is to be praised as the Redeemer, and the psalm presents four paradigmatic stories in which God redeemed people from trouble. Whatever tale our own stories may tell, can we imagine ourselves as part of the story of The God Who Redeems?

]]> Thu, 14 Aug 2025 20:03:49 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 550 The Psalter is divided into five books. Psalm 106 is the last psalm of Book IV. Psalm 107 then sets the tone for Book V by repeating the opening words of Psalm 106: “Give thanks to the LORD for he is good; his love endures forever.” God is to be praised as the Redeemer, and the psalm presents four paradigmatic stories in which God redeemed people from trouble. Whatever tale our own stories may tell, can we imagine ourselves as part of the story of The God Who Redeems?

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 41 41 Episode 41: Let the redeemed tell their story full ec6d9dc5-8f65-484d-ba98-9fcca07dbb00 https://share.transistor.fm/s/061f819c Psalm 107 presents four stories of redemption. We’ll begin with the fourth, which takes place at sea. Sailors on a merchant vessel are caught in a terrible storm, and fearing for their lives, they cry out to God and are rescued. But as in so many psalms, the people are called not merely to praise God for what he has done, but for who he is: a God of unfailing love. 

]]> Psalm 107 presents four stories of redemption. We’ll begin with the fourth, which takes place at sea. Sailors on a merchant vessel are caught in a terrible storm, and fearing for their lives, they cry out to God and are rescued. But as in so many psalms, the people are called not merely to praise God for what he has done, but for who he is: a God of unfailing love. 

]]> Thu, 14 Aug 2025 20:04:21 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 409 Psalm 107 presents four stories of redemption. We’ll begin with the fourth, which takes place at sea. Sailors on a merchant vessel are caught in a terrible storm, and fearing for their lives, they cry out to God and are rescued. But as in so many psalms, the people are called not merely to praise God for what he has done, but for who he is: a God of unfailing love. 

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 42 42 Episode 42: Grace and mercy full 7afa1e0e-cda9-4634-9d0c-d19afb668eec https://share.transistor.fm/s/5c8e367b In the previous episode, we explored the fourth of Psalm 107’s four stories. Here, we look at the second and third, which share something unusual in common. One is a graphic story about people crying out to God from prison; the other is about people crying out in the midst of life-threatening illness. But all the people are described as justly deserving their suffering. And yet, when they turn and call upon God, he answers with grace and mercy.

]]> In the previous episode, we explored the fourth of Psalm 107’s four stories. Here, we look at the second and third, which share something unusual in common. One is a graphic story about people crying out to God from prison; the other is about people crying out in the midst of life-threatening illness. But all the people are described as justly deserving their suffering. And yet, when they turn and call upon God, he answers with grace and mercy.

]]> Thu, 14 Aug 2025 20:04:42 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 492 In the previous episode, we explored the fourth of Psalm 107’s four stories. Here, we look at the second and third, which share something unusual in common. One is a graphic story about people crying out to God from prison; the other is about people crying out in the midst of life-threatening illness. But all the people are described as justly deserving their suffering. And yet, when they turn and call upon God, he answers with grace and mercy.

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 43 43 Episode 43: Homeless and hungry full a3a98d91-2ce8-4015-a22f-98b156393d1a https://share.transistor.fm/s/ad4c182a Homelessness is not just a modern problem; some form of it has probably existed throughout history. The first of the four stories of redemption in Psalm 107 seems to describe such a situation. Those who are hungry, thirsting, and wandering without a home are rescued from their distress by God and blessed. The imagery is reminiscent of the teaching of Jesus…

]]> Homelessness is not just a modern problem; some form of it has probably existed throughout history. The first of the four stories of redemption in Psalm 107 seems to describe such a situation. Those who are hungry, thirsting, and wandering without a home are rescued from their distress by God and blessed. The imagery is reminiscent of the teaching of Jesus…

]]> Thu, 14 Aug 2025 20:05:19 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 478 Homelessness is not just a modern problem; some form of it has probably existed throughout history. The first of the four stories of redemption in Psalm 107 seems to describe such a situation. Those who are hungry, thirsting, and wandering without a home are rescued from their distress by God and blessed. The imagery is reminiscent of the teaching of Jesus…

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 44 44 Episode 44: A choir of cursing? full ce7de7b7-4814-4d6b-81c1-af900bbf97d5 https://share.transistor.fm/s/590ac105 When we sing words from the Psalms in church, we typically sing praise songs, not laments. And we do not sing songs of cursing, known as imprecatory psalms. But much of Psalm 109, a psalm that was apparently meant to be sung, is a prayer for the complete destruction of the psalmist’s enemy. In this episode, we’ll cautiously examine the psalmist’s lament.

]]> When we sing words from the Psalms in church, we typically sing praise songs, not laments. And we do not sing songs of cursing, known as imprecatory psalms. But much of Psalm 109, a psalm that was apparently meant to be sung, is a prayer for the complete destruction of the psalmist’s enemy. In this episode, we’ll cautiously examine the psalmist’s lament.

]]> Thu, 14 Aug 2025 20:05:45 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 477 When we sing words from the Psalms in church, we typically sing praise songs, not laments. And we do not sing songs of cursing, known as imprecatory psalms. But much of Psalm 109, a psalm that was apparently meant to be sung, is a prayer for the complete destruction of the psalmist’s enemy. In this episode, we’ll cautiously examine the psalmist’s lament.

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 45 45 Episode 45: Cursing, with a vengeance full 63b3069d-b667-4f2c-89e9-d09576acb10d https://share.transistor.fm/s/95e410d0 In Psalm 109, the psalmist has been the victim of injustice. One or more people have brought charges against the psalmist, and are willing to tell any lie to get a conviction. In response, the psalmist prays for vengeance and divine retaliation, not only against the psalmist’s enemies, but their families and future descendants. What is one to do with such a psalm? Here, we’ll compare it to Psalm 37, which we explored in previous episodes.

]]> In Psalm 109, the psalmist has been the victim of injustice. One or more people have brought charges against the psalmist, and are willing to tell any lie to get a conviction. In response, the psalmist prays for vengeance and divine retaliation, not only against the psalmist’s enemies, but their families and future descendants. What is one to do with such a psalm? Here, we’ll compare it to Psalm 37, which we explored in previous episodes.

]]> Thu, 14 Aug 2025 20:06:19 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 473 In Psalm 109, the psalmist has been the victim of injustice. One or more people have brought charges against the psalmist, and are willing to tell any lie to get a conviction. In response, the psalmist prays for vengeance and divine retaliation, not only against the psalmist’s enemies, but their families and future descendants. What is one to do with such a psalm? Here, we’ll compare it to Psalm 37, which we explored in previous episodes.

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 46 46 Episode 46: You are what you speak full 4cca9127-6fed-47a2-a976-f623225e81f9 https://share.transistor.fm/s/2e889d43 As an example of an imprecatory psalm, Psalm 109 shows the depth to which the psalmists will sometimes go to call for God’s justice and curse their enemies. Read another way, however, it is also a cautionary tale about the psalmist’s enemies. They have not only cursed the psalmist, but have made cursing a way of life—and it has corrupted their character to the core.

]]> As an example of an imprecatory psalm, Psalm 109 shows the depth to which the psalmists will sometimes go to call for God’s justice and curse their enemies. Read another way, however, it is also a cautionary tale about the psalmist’s enemies. They have not only cursed the psalmist, but have made cursing a way of life—and it has corrupted their character to the core.

]]> Thu, 14 Aug 2025 20:06:43 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 395 As an example of an imprecatory psalm, Psalm 109 shows the depth to which the psalmists will sometimes go to call for God’s justice and curse their enemies. Read another way, however, it is also a cautionary tale about the psalmist’s enemies. They have not only cursed the psalmist, but have made cursing a way of life—and it has corrupted their character to the core.

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 47 47 Episode 47: Bless, don’t curse full 150afe45-704d-4d98-8c36-a56edc4ce5c7 https://share.transistor.fm/s/13fb3883 If you’ve ever been unjustly accused, you may understand the sentiment of Psalm 109. But given the teaching of Jesus, and even of Paul, is it ever appropriate for a Christian to pray this way? The psalmist’s enemies deserved to be punished—but because of Jesus, Christians have a new way of understanding God’s justice. How might the psalmist have taken this?

]]> If you’ve ever been unjustly accused, you may understand the sentiment of Psalm 109. But given the teaching of Jesus, and even of Paul, is it ever appropriate for a Christian to pray this way? The psalmist’s enemies deserved to be punished—but because of Jesus, Christians have a new way of understanding God’s justice. How might the psalmist have taken this?

]]> Thu, 14 Aug 2025 20:07:14 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 408 If you’ve ever been unjustly accused, you may understand the sentiment of Psalm 109. But given the teaching of Jesus, and even of Paul, is it ever appropriate for a Christian to pray this way? The psalmist’s enemies deserved to be punished—but because of Jesus, Christians have a new way of understanding God’s justice. How might the psalmist have taken this?

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 48 48 Episode 48: Why sing “hallelujah”? full b97bfa8b-eb91-406b-8c2b-104b70fe4c72 https://share.transistor.fm/s/42660497 The gospel of Matthew tells us that when Jesus and his disciples finished their Passover meal in the Upper Room, they sang a hymn before leaving for the Mount of Olives. After what Jesus had told them, was anyone in the mood for singing? And what would they have sung? Probably Psalms 113 to 118, which are collectively known as The Egyptian Hallel. Here, we’ll begin our exploration of the Hallel with Psalm 113.

]]> The gospel of Matthew tells us that when Jesus and his disciples finished their Passover meal in the Upper Room, they sang a hymn before leaving for the Mount of Olives. After what Jesus had told them, was anyone in the mood for singing? And what would they have sung? Probably Psalms 113 to 118, which are collectively known as The Egyptian Hallel. Here, we’ll begin our exploration of the Hallel with Psalm 113.

]]> Thu, 14 Aug 2025 20:07:41 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 448 The gospel of Matthew tells us that when Jesus and his disciples finished their Passover meal in the Upper Room, they sang a hymn before leaving for the Mount of Olives. After what Jesus had told them, was anyone in the mood for singing? And what would they have sung? Probably Psalms 113 to 118, which are collectively known as The Egyptian Hallel. Here, we’ll begin our exploration of the Hallel with Psalm 113.

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 49 49 Episode 49: The prayer of a grateful mother full 37f2d385-5b0c-46e1-82ce-8068f1d22ef9 https://share.transistor.fm/s/45e277cb Psalm 113 comes to us in three parts. In the first, we’re directed to praise God forever and everywhere. In the second, we’re told to praise God for who he is. But at the end of the second part and continuing into the third, we’re also told to praise God for what he has done. Here, we’ll focus on the third part, where the psalmist quotes a song from the past and thereby honors the woman who sang it.

]]> Psalm 113 comes to us in three parts. In the first, we’re directed to praise God forever and everywhere. In the second, we’re told to praise God for who he is. But at the end of the second part and continuing into the third, we’re also told to praise God for what he has done. Here, we’ll focus on the third part, where the psalmist quotes a song from the past and thereby honors the woman who sang it.

]]> Thu, 14 Aug 2025 20:08:14 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 426 Psalm 113 comes to us in three parts. In the first, we’re directed to praise God forever and everywhere. In the second, we’re told to praise God for who he is. But at the end of the second part and continuing into the third, we’re also told to praise God for what he has done. Here, we’ll focus on the third part, where the psalmist quotes a song from the past and thereby honors the woman who sang it.

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 50 50 Episode 50: Let the earth tremble full e8e1157d-56b2-4308-a007-16a64fd36772 https://share.transistor.fm/s/05833c17 The Hallel is sometimes known as the Egyptian Hallel because of Psalm 114, a short psalm which begins with a reference to the exodus from Egypt. The verses that follow briefly refer to the history that followed, including the conquest of Canaan. But the story is told in a way that draws attention to the power of God, reminding us that we are first at God’s mercy before we are recipients of it.

]]> The Hallel is sometimes known as the Egyptian Hallel because of Psalm 114, a short psalm which begins with a reference to the exodus from Egypt. The verses that follow briefly refer to the history that followed, including the conquest of Canaan. But the story is told in a way that draws attention to the power of God, reminding us that we are first at God’s mercy before we are recipients of it.

]]> Thu, 14 Aug 2025 20:08:40 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 519 The Hallel is sometimes known as the Egyptian Hallel because of Psalm 114, a short psalm which begins with a reference to the exodus from Egypt. The verses that follow briefly refer to the history that followed, including the conquest of Canaan. But the story is told in a way that draws attention to the power of God, reminding us that we are first at God’s mercy before we are recipients of it.

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 51 51 Episode 51: Not to us full 3c96b281-88b1-4654-bbe6-8ed0b79baba4 https://share.transistor.fm/s/504dba61 In the Old Testament, a war or other conflict between nations was war between their gods. The second verse of Psalm 115 sets forth the question with which the psalm as a whole wrestles: “Why do the nations say, ‘Where is their God?’” Whether the question was asked in mockery or not, it implies that the God of Israel is insignificant. The psalmist’s response, however, is not belligerent. It begins by humbly reminding God’s people of who God is and how the glory belongs only to him.

]]> In the Old Testament, a war or other conflict between nations was war between their gods. The second verse of Psalm 115 sets forth the question with which the psalm as a whole wrestles: “Why do the nations say, ‘Where is their God?’” Whether the question was asked in mockery or not, it implies that the God of Israel is insignificant. The psalmist’s response, however, is not belligerent. It begins by humbly reminding God’s people of who God is and how the glory belongs only to him.

]]> Thu, 14 Aug 2025 20:09:16 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 453 In the Old Testament, a war or other conflict between nations was war between their gods. The second verse of Psalm 115 sets forth the question with which the psalm as a whole wrestles: “Why do the nations say, ‘Where is their God?’” Whether the question was asked in mockery or not, it implies that the God of Israel is insignificant. The psalmist’s response, however, is not belligerent. It begins by humbly reminding God’s people of who God is and how the glory belongs only to him.

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 52 52 Episode 52: You are what you worship? full 6bffb0b5-08c2-4a0d-9cdf-2a5c681f95da https://share.transistor.fm/s/a7758983 In Psalm 115, the nations have questioned Israel’s God. The psalmist responds by saying not only that God is the one who rules from heaven, but that the gods of other nations are merely idols, made by human hands. In stark contrast to God, they can do nothing. But even more than this: the psalmist warns that those who worship idols will become like what they worship.

]]> In Psalm 115, the nations have questioned Israel’s God. The psalmist responds by saying not only that God is the one who rules from heaven, but that the gods of other nations are merely idols, made by human hands. In stark contrast to God, they can do nothing. But even more than this: the psalmist warns that those who worship idols will become like what they worship.

]]> Thu, 14 Aug 2025 20:09:42 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 428 In Psalm 115, the nations have questioned Israel’s God. The psalmist responds by saying not only that God is the one who rules from heaven, but that the gods of other nations are merely idols, made by human hands. In stark contrast to God, they can do nothing. But even more than this: the psalmist warns that those who worship idols will become like what they worship.

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 53 53 Episode 53: In God we trust full d35e7064-f8c3-4848-a2ad-252b4def2b82 https://share.transistor.fm/s/c03966b9 The writer of Psalm 115 insists that it’s useless to worship and put your trust in mere idols, which are completely impotent. By contrast, in what reads like a liturgy, the psalmist insists that all God’s people can and should put their trust in God. He alone is their refuge and the one whom the people should glorify and fear.

]]> The writer of Psalm 115 insists that it’s useless to worship and put your trust in mere idols, which are completely impotent. By contrast, in what reads like a liturgy, the psalmist insists that all God’s people can and should put their trust in God. He alone is their refuge and the one whom the people should glorify and fear.

]]> Thu, 14 Aug 2025 20:10:25 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 443 The writer of Psalm 115 insists that it’s useless to worship and put your trust in mere idols, which are completely impotent. By contrast, in what reads like a liturgy, the psalmist insists that all God’s people can and should put their trust in God. He alone is their refuge and the one whom the people should glorify and fear.

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 54 54 Episode 54: Maker of heaven and earth full b893a516-8792-4546-a300-2215ba1cc3ed https://share.transistor.fm/s/7625703a In earlier episodes, we’ve explored creation psalms the celebrate the sovereignty and majesty of God. By contrast, Psalm 115 declares the “gods” of other nations to be no gods at all. The one who made heaven and earth blesses his people. It is their vocation to trust and praise him. 

]]> In earlier episodes, we’ve explored creation psalms the celebrate the sovereignty and majesty of God. By contrast, Psalm 115 declares the “gods” of other nations to be no gods at all. The one who made heaven and earth blesses his people. It is their vocation to trust and praise him. 

]]> Thu, 14 Aug 2025 20:10:46 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 430 In earlier episodes, we’ve explored creation psalms the celebrate the sovereignty and majesty of God. By contrast, Psalm 115 declares the “gods” of other nations to be no gods at all. The one who made heaven and earth blesses his people. It is their vocation to trust and praise him. 

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 55 55 Episode 55: The cup of salvation full f3c692e0-26db-4464-bc74-ce1577a94edd https://share.transistor.fm/s/89e0cfd9 As I’ve suggested, Jesus would probably have sung all or part of the Hallel with his disciples at the Last Supper. The link between the Passover and the Hallel may be because of Psalm 116, which explicitly refers to “the cup of salvation,” probably a drink offering. The psalm itself speaks of the psalmist’s own deliverance from death and the grave. How might the disciples have heard the psalm differently when they celebrated the Passover after Jesus’ death and resurrection?

]]> As I’ve suggested, Jesus would probably have sung all or part of the Hallel with his disciples at the Last Supper. The link between the Passover and the Hallel may be because of Psalm 116, which explicitly refers to “the cup of salvation,” probably a drink offering. The psalm itself speaks of the psalmist’s own deliverance from death and the grave. How might the disciples have heard the psalm differently when they celebrated the Passover after Jesus’ death and resurrection?

]]> Thu, 14 Aug 2025 20:11:22 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 473 As I’ve suggested, Jesus would probably have sung all or part of the Hallel with his disciples at the Last Supper. The link between the Passover and the Hallel may be because of Psalm 116, which explicitly refers to “the cup of salvation,” probably a drink offering. The psalm itself speaks of the psalmist’s own deliverance from death and the grave. How might the disciples have heard the psalm differently when they celebrated the Passover after Jesus’ death and resurrection?

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 56 56 Episode 56: With love and thanks full 0531fd97-5650-429d-a44c-168e4911e094 https://share.transistor.fm/s/3bb8d9b8 How many psalms begin with a personal declaration of love for God? Just one: Psalm 116. The psalmist was in dire distress, cried out for mercy, and was rescued by God. The psalmist therefore pours out words of gratitude—and apparently, intends to go to Jerusalem to pour out a drink offering before God as well. The psalm ends with a call to God’s people to join the psalmist in praise.

]]> How many psalms begin with a personal declaration of love for God? Just one: Psalm 116. The psalmist was in dire distress, cried out for mercy, and was rescued by God. The psalmist therefore pours out words of gratitude—and apparently, intends to go to Jerusalem to pour out a drink offering before God as well. The psalm ends with a call to God’s people to join the psalmist in praise.

]]> Thu, 14 Aug 2025 20:11:46 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 433 How many psalms begin with a personal declaration of love for God? Just one: Psalm 116. The psalmist was in dire distress, cried out for mercy, and was rescued by God. The psalmist therefore pours out words of gratitude—and apparently, intends to go to Jerusalem to pour out a drink offering before God as well. The psalm ends with a call to God’s people to join the psalmist in praise.

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 57 57 Episode 57: Blessed to be a blessing full 2d3f61b1-ddde-4080-afdd-f339815a361d https://share.transistor.fm/s/05cb8cb5 Psalm 119, which comes right after the Hallel, is the longest chapter in the Bible. Psalm 117, which comes just before the final psalm in the Hallel, is the shortest, at just two verses long. It’s not surprising that the psalmist praises God for his love and faithfulness to his people. What is a little surprising, however, is that the psalmist also calls other nations to praise him as well.

]]> Psalm 119, which comes right after the Hallel, is the longest chapter in the Bible. Psalm 117, which comes just before the final psalm in the Hallel, is the shortest, at just two verses long. It’s not surprising that the psalmist praises God for his love and faithfulness to his people. What is a little surprising, however, is that the psalmist also calls other nations to praise him as well.

]]> Thu, 14 Aug 2025 20:12:17 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 525 Psalm 119, which comes right after the Hallel, is the longest chapter in the Bible. Psalm 117, which comes just before the final psalm in the Hallel, is the shortest, at just two verses long. It’s not surprising that the psalmist praises God for his love and faithfulness to his people. What is a little surprising, however, is that the psalmist also calls other nations to praise him as well.

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 58 58 Episode 58: The cornerstone full 370ac5d0-4713-4a79-a79f-b1783094d01a https://share.transistor.fm/s/836a56c0 In the days just before his crucifixion, Jesus was publicly debating the Pharisees in the temple courts. He asked them if they had read the verse about the stone which was rejected and then became the cornerstone. Of course they had: it was from Psalm 118, and everyone was in Jerusalem for the Passover, at which that psalm would be sung. Later, the apostles Peter and Paul would refer to Jesus as the cornerstone as well. What does this mean?

]]> In the days just before his crucifixion, Jesus was publicly debating the Pharisees in the temple courts. He asked them if they had read the verse about the stone which was rejected and then became the cornerstone. Of course they had: it was from Psalm 118, and everyone was in Jerusalem for the Passover, at which that psalm would be sung. Later, the apostles Peter and Paul would refer to Jesus as the cornerstone as well. What does this mean?

]]> Thu, 14 Aug 2025 20:12:41 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 491 In the days just before his crucifixion, Jesus was publicly debating the Pharisees in the temple courts. He asked them if they had read the verse about the stone which was rejected and then became the cornerstone. Of course they had: it was from Psalm 118, and everyone was in Jerusalem for the Passover, at which that psalm would be sung. Later, the apostles Peter and Paul would refer to Jesus as the cornerstone as well. What does this mean?

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 59 59 Episode 59: A call to worship full 9b611cff-f9cd-4b91-a6b5-7afd08fad2f9 https://share.transistor.fm/s/ae2a6f17 On the one hand, Psalm 118 is a personal prayer of gratitude. On the other hand, it is also a summons to God’s people to join in praise and thanksgiving; the psalm contains what seem to be liturgical elements. In a manner reminiscent of Psalm 115, the psalmist calls first all Israel, then the house of Aaron, then those who fear the LORD to praise him for his everlasting love. And as we’ll explore here, it may be that the psalmist means for that praise to be embodied.

]]> On the one hand, Psalm 118 is a personal prayer of gratitude. On the other hand, it is also a summons to God’s people to join in praise and thanksgiving; the psalm contains what seem to be liturgical elements. In a manner reminiscent of Psalm 115, the psalmist calls first all Israel, then the house of Aaron, then those who fear the LORD to praise him for his everlasting love. And as we’ll explore here, it may be that the psalmist means for that praise to be embodied.

]]> Thu, 14 Aug 2025 20:13:16 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 517 On the one hand, Psalm 118 is a personal prayer of gratitude. On the other hand, it is also a summons to God’s people to join in praise and thanksgiving; the psalm contains what seem to be liturgical elements. In a manner reminiscent of Psalm 115, the psalmist calls first all Israel, then the house of Aaron, then those who fear the LORD to praise him for his everlasting love. And as we’ll explore here, it may be that the psalmist means for that praise to be embodied.

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 60 60 Episode 60: God is my refuge full 158149ba-766d-4439-919e-f6e2acb591fc https://share.transistor.fm/s/334cf47e We don’t know who wrote Psalm 118, but parts of it read as if written by a king. There is language reminiscent of battles between nations; there is language reminiscent of David. But whoever wrote the psalm, the message is clear: God is the one to trust in the midst of trouble, for he is the place of refuge for the faithful.

]]> We don’t know who wrote Psalm 118, but parts of it read as if written by a king. There is language reminiscent of battles between nations; there is language reminiscent of David. But whoever wrote the psalm, the message is clear: God is the one to trust in the midst of trouble, for he is the place of refuge for the faithful.

]]> Thu, 14 Aug 2025 20:13:44 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 472 We don’t know who wrote Psalm 118, but parts of it read as if written by a king. There is language reminiscent of battles between nations; there is language reminiscent of David. But whoever wrote the psalm, the message is clear: God is the one to trust in the midst of trouble, for he is the place of refuge for the faithful.

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 61 61 Episode 61: A joyous procession full 7ccc0b6f-4bad-4059-9da6-afa8bb2b2632 https://share.transistor.fm/s/eb530e41 Most of us probably go to church in our own cars, by ourselves or with our families. We enter the sanctuary, perhaps greet some friends, and find a seat. But what if everyone gathered in one place, then went together in a procession into the sanctuary instead? The second part of Psalm 118 pictures something like this. The passage contains words that will be familiar to readers of the gospels, and we’ll examine those more closely in the next episode.

]]> Most of us probably go to church in our own cars, by ourselves or with our families. We enter the sanctuary, perhaps greet some friends, and find a seat. But what if everyone gathered in one place, then went together in a procession into the sanctuary instead? The second part of Psalm 118 pictures something like this. The passage contains words that will be familiar to readers of the gospels, and we’ll examine those more closely in the next episode.

]]> Thu, 14 Aug 2025 20:14:18 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 447 Most of us probably go to church in our own cars, by ourselves or with our families. We enter the sanctuary, perhaps greet some friends, and find a seat. But what if everyone gathered in one place, then went together in a procession into the sanctuary instead? The second part of Psalm 118 pictures something like this. The passage contains words that will be familiar to readers of the gospels, and we’ll examine those more closely in the next episode.

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 62 62 Episode 62: Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord full 5652e7b2-a57b-44b7-bd1e-0d49ae90a2cc https://share.transistor.fm/s/f93131b6 In this episode, we come to the end of our examination of the Egyptian Hallel. We don’t know for certain who wrote Psalm 118 or why. But apparently, by the time of Jesus, it was understood as pointing forward to the coming Messiah. This is important to understanding why Jesus quoted the psalm to the Jerusalem leaders—and what he seems to have intended by doing so. 

]]> In this episode, we come to the end of our examination of the Egyptian Hallel. We don’t know for certain who wrote Psalm 118 or why. But apparently, by the time of Jesus, it was understood as pointing forward to the coming Messiah. This is important to understanding why Jesus quoted the psalm to the Jerusalem leaders—and what he seems to have intended by doing so. 

]]> Thu, 14 Aug 2025 20:14:39 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 528 In this episode, we come to the end of our examination of the Egyptian Hallel. We don’t know for certain who wrote Psalm 118 or why. But apparently, by the time of Jesus, it was understood as pointing forward to the coming Messiah. This is important to understanding why Jesus quoted the psalm to the Jerusalem leaders—and what he seems to have intended by doing so. 

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 63 63 Episode 63: Forgiven and free full d534fd3e-2d07-43b6-9770-35b33dbee75c https://share.transistor.fm/s/26700c53 Some psalms emphasize the psalmist’s confession of sin; these are known as penitential psalms. Psalm 32 is a good example of this type. The first part reads like a wisdom psalm, and is quoted by the apostle Paul. These early verses raise an important question: why do we stay silent about our sin, and what happens when we do?

]]> Some psalms emphasize the psalmist’s confession of sin; these are known as penitential psalms. Psalm 32 is a good example of this type. The first part reads like a wisdom psalm, and is quoted by the apostle Paul. These early verses raise an important question: why do we stay silent about our sin, and what happens when we do?

]]> Sat, 16 Aug 2025 16:31:36 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 475 Some psalms emphasize the psalmist’s confession of sin; these are known as penitential psalms. Psalm 32 is a good example of this type. The first part reads like a wisdom psalm, and is quoted by the apostle Paul. These early verses raise an important question: why do we stay silent about our sin, and what happens when we do?

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 64 64 Episode 64: It’s covered full 08f9ba44-c365-4a6b-a907-dba96974bc53 https://share.transistor.fm/s/01853e74 Like the author of Psalm 32 (it’s attributed to David), we probably all have our private sins, things we’ve done that nobody about knows except God. He tried to cover it up, but suffered when he did. Finally, he confessed his sin to God—and in grace and mercy, God covered it. 

]]> Like the author of Psalm 32 (it’s attributed to David), we probably all have our private sins, things we’ve done that nobody about knows except God. He tried to cover it up, but suffered when he did. Finally, he confessed his sin to God—and in grace and mercy, God covered it. 

]]> Sat, 16 Aug 2025 16:32:15 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 442 Like the author of Psalm 32 (it’s attributed to David), we probably all have our private sins, things we’ve done that nobody about knows except God. He tried to cover it up, but suffered when he did. Finally, he confessed his sin to God—and in grace and mercy, God covered it. 

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 65 65 Episode 65: Hiding place full e2d99952-6f42-496e-93d3-0d5c9319e1ba https://share.transistor.fm/s/980a2b48 You may know the story of Corrie ten Boom, the Dutch evangelist who miraculously survived a Nazi concentration camp. Her biography, The Hiding Place, echoes the Psalms, including Psalm 32. Throughout the collection, God is described as place of shelter and safety. The psalm is not just about confessing sin; it’s about running to God to security.

]]> You may know the story of Corrie ten Boom, the Dutch evangelist who miraculously survived a Nazi concentration camp. Her biography, The Hiding Place, echoes the Psalms, including Psalm 32. Throughout the collection, God is described as place of shelter and safety. The psalm is not just about confessing sin; it’s about running to God to security.

]]> Sat, 16 Aug 2025 16:32:39 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 388 You may know the story of Corrie ten Boom, the Dutch evangelist who miraculously survived a Nazi concentration camp. Her biography, The Hiding Place, echoes the Psalms, including Psalm 32. Throughout the collection, God is described as place of shelter and safety. The psalm is not just about confessing sin; it’s about running to God to security.

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 66 66 Episode 66: Don’t be so stubborn! full 9f806246-39bc-4023-a775-735506ae90ed https://share.transistor.fm/s/ac735246 When we were two years old, we may have gone through a period of stubborn rebellion. And even as adults, some of us may not be done rebelling. We don’t know why the author of Psalm 32 hid his sin from God. But he learned a great lesson from the love and grace he found after he confessed. The final verses read like a wisdom psalm, in which the psalmist tries to help God’s people to not make the same mistake he did.

]]> When we were two years old, we may have gone through a period of stubborn rebellion. And even as adults, some of us may not be done rebelling. We don’t know why the author of Psalm 32 hid his sin from God. But he learned a great lesson from the love and grace he found after he confessed. The final verses read like a wisdom psalm, in which the psalmist tries to help God’s people to not make the same mistake he did.

]]> Sat, 16 Aug 2025 16:33:15 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 412 When we were two years old, we may have gone through a period of stubborn rebellion. And even as adults, some of us may not be done rebelling. We don’t know why the author of Psalm 32 hid his sin from God. But he learned a great lesson from the love and grace he found after he confessed. The final verses read like a wisdom psalm, in which the psalmist tries to help God’s people to not make the same mistake he did.

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 67 67 Episode 67: Lord, have mercy! full f307fc6c-8630-42ba-9e91-afada3cc1058 https://share.transistor.fm/s/b7dd4534 Psalm 51 is one of the few to begin with a heading that associates it with a specific historical event; in this case, it’s David’s sin with Bathsheba. Some tellings of that story get it drastically wrong. We need to tell the story rightly to understand the depth of David’s guilt, and the corresponding depth of his repentance and the grace of God that met it.

]]> Psalm 51 is one of the few to begin with a heading that associates it with a specific historical event; in this case, it’s David’s sin with Bathsheba. Some tellings of that story get it drastically wrong. We need to tell the story rightly to understand the depth of David’s guilt, and the corresponding depth of his repentance and the grace of God that met it.

]]> Sat, 16 Aug 2025 16:33:46 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 465 Psalm 51 is one of the few to begin with a heading that associates it with a specific historical event; in this case, it’s David’s sin with Bathsheba. Some tellings of that story get it drastically wrong. We need to tell the story rightly to understand the depth of David’s guilt, and the corresponding depth of his repentance and the grace of God that met it.

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 68 68 Episode 68: Broken full 5128bb34-5732-4b91-b029-04b52a9ae724 https://share.transistor.fm/s/cd241840 Some Old Testament texts critique what the whole system of ritual sacrifice had become: an exercise in piety that’s without true repentance. But in Psalm 51, the psalmist acknowledges that God doesn’t want sacrifices; he wants the psalmist’s broken heart.

]]> Some Old Testament texts critique what the whole system of ritual sacrifice had become: an exercise in piety that’s without true repentance. But in Psalm 51, the psalmist acknowledges that God doesn’t want sacrifices; he wants the psalmist’s broken heart.

]]> Sat, 16 Aug 2025 16:34:30 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 449 Some Old Testament texts critique what the whole system of ritual sacrifice had become: an exercise in piety that’s without true repentance. But in Psalm 51, the psalmist acknowledges that God doesn’t want sacrifices; he wants the psalmist’s broken heart.

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 69 69 Episode 69: Pointing forward, pointing back full 5e24f3c3-22d2-450e-9526-8c76dd95f699 https://share.transistor.fm/s/9bacaba3 Even a casual reading of Psalm 22 may make you want to say, “This is about Jesus.” Many of the lines of the psalm seem to describe a scene from the crucifixion. For that reason, Psalm 22 has been considered “prophetic,” as if the psalmist had a vision of the future and wrote it down. But is that the best way to understand the relationship between this psalm and the life and death of Jesus?

]]> Even a casual reading of Psalm 22 may make you want to say, “This is about Jesus.” Many of the lines of the psalm seem to describe a scene from the crucifixion. For that reason, Psalm 22 has been considered “prophetic,” as if the psalmist had a vision of the future and wrote it down. But is that the best way to understand the relationship between this psalm and the life and death of Jesus?

]]> Tue, 19 Aug 2025 13:13:01 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 441 Even a casual reading of Psalm 22 may make you want to say, “This is about Jesus.” Many of the lines of the psalm seem to describe a scene from the crucifixion. For that reason, Psalm 22 has been considered “prophetic,” as if the psalmist had a vision of the future and wrote it down. But is that the best way to understand the relationship between this psalm and the life and death of Jesus?

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 70 70 Episode 70: The lowest low to the highest height full 42ce6343-0be2-4a58-9636-2ff5115a93a5 https://share.transistor.fm/s/85dce7d8 As he hung dying on the cross, Jesus cried out to God in anguish. It was the opening line of Psalm 22: “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” We usually take that as an outcry of abandonment and suffering, and rightly so. But is that all it is? A closer look at the psalm suggests another possibility.

]]> As he hung dying on the cross, Jesus cried out to God in anguish. It was the opening line of Psalm 22: “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” We usually take that as an outcry of abandonment and suffering, and rightly so. But is that all it is? A closer look at the psalm suggests another possibility.

]]> Tue, 19 Aug 2025 13:13:29 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 459 As he hung dying on the cross, Jesus cried out to God in anguish. It was the opening line of Psalm 22: “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” We usually take that as an outcry of abandonment and suffering, and rightly so. But is that all it is? A closer look at the psalm suggests another possibility.

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 71 71 Episode 71: A mighty fortress full 382bd8a5-3d45-4b0e-801f-9d603919bb31 https://share.transistor.fm/s/eb842cf5 The opening lines of Psalm 46 inspired Martin Luther’s classic hymn, “A Mighty Fortress.” God is characterized as a place of refuge, like a stronghold built high on a rock. Have you ever had the sense of having been rescued from trouble by God? The psalm suggests that we should expect to encounter God at such times.

]]> The opening lines of Psalm 46 inspired Martin Luther’s classic hymn, “A Mighty Fortress.” God is characterized as a place of refuge, like a stronghold built high on a rock. Have you ever had the sense of having been rescued from trouble by God? The psalm suggests that we should expect to encounter God at such times.

]]> Tue, 19 Aug 2025 13:14:04 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 428 The opening lines of Psalm 46 inspired Martin Luther’s classic hymn, “A Mighty Fortress.” God is characterized as a place of refuge, like a stronghold built high on a rock. Have you ever had the sense of having been rescued from trouble by God? The psalm suggests that we should expect to encounter God at such times.

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 72 72 Episode 72: When the world is falling apart full df36500f-0e6d-4a42-b84e-ef5317602c65 https://share.transistor.fm/s/4d2d2903 I have always lived in a place where earthquakes are a fact of life. Until you’ve been through one, you may not realize how much we take the stability of the ground beneath our feet for granted. But it can feel like the world has been shaken in other ways. Psalm 46 declares that we needn’t fear, because God is our security.

]]> I have always lived in a place where earthquakes are a fact of life. Until you’ve been through one, you may not realize how much we take the stability of the ground beneath our feet for granted. But it can feel like the world has been shaken in other ways. Psalm 46 declares that we needn’t fear, because God is our security.

]]> Tue, 19 Aug 2025 13:14:33 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 429 I have always lived in a place where earthquakes are a fact of life. Until you’ve been through one, you may not realize how much we take the stability of the ground beneath our feet for granted. But it can feel like the world has been shaken in other ways. Psalm 46 declares that we needn’t fear, because God is our security.

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 73 73 Episode 73: Drop your sword! full ba1725b0-49b7-463e-8b1c-024f005ef542 https://share.transistor.fm/s/45d41735 That’s a famous line from one of my favorite movies, The Princess Bride. Here, I will suggest that it’s also the way we should probably read a famous line from Psalm 46.

]]> That’s a famous line from one of my favorite movies, The Princess Bride. Here, I will suggest that it’s also the way we should probably read a famous line from Psalm 46.

]]> Tue, 19 Aug 2025 13:15:07 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 416 That’s a famous line from one of my favorite movies, The Princess Bride. Here, I will suggest that it’s also the way we should probably read a famous line from Psalm 46.

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 74 74 Episode 74: Traveling mercies full 6b30b529-f3b6-4227-8efd-e122dd9fadc6 https://share.transistor.fm/s/da2460ee I sometimes think of Psalm 25 as the “everything pizza” of the Psalms; it’s another acrostic poem (like Psalm 119), and it has many of the stylistic elements of other psalms. We’ll explore the structure of the psalm, which seems designed to suggest that humility is at its heart—indeed, that humility is at the heart of prayer. 

]]> I sometimes think of Psalm 25 as the “everything pizza” of the Psalms; it’s another acrostic poem (like Psalm 119), and it has many of the stylistic elements of other psalms. We’ll explore the structure of the psalm, which seems designed to suggest that humility is at its heart—indeed, that humility is at the heart of prayer. 

]]> Tue, 19 Aug 2025 13:15:34 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 465 I sometimes think of Psalm 25 as the “everything pizza” of the Psalms; it’s another acrostic poem (like Psalm 119), and it has many of the stylistic elements of other psalms. We’ll explore the structure of the psalm, which seems designed to suggest that humility is at its heart—indeed, that humility is at the heart of prayer. 

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 75 75 Episode 75: When stuff happens full 6cf6e3c9-f292-4b63-89bd-e91fd0f1b8fb https://share.transistor.fm/s/9dbd4e72 Stuff happens—anything from minor inconveniences to major crises. And when bad things happen, it’s good and right to go to God in prayer. What Psalm 25 teaches is that inside that prayer should also be a prayer for wisdom, sometimes of repentance, and always with humble trust and confidence in the goodness of God.

]]> Stuff happens—anything from minor inconveniences to major crises. And when bad things happen, it’s good and right to go to God in prayer. What Psalm 25 teaches is that inside that prayer should also be a prayer for wisdom, sometimes of repentance, and always with humble trust and confidence in the goodness of God.

]]> Thu, 21 Aug 2025 20:31:24 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 431 Stuff happens—anything from minor inconveniences to major crises. And when bad things happen, it’s good and right to go to God in prayer. What Psalm 25 teaches is that inside that prayer should also be a prayer for wisdom, sometimes of repentance, and always with humble trust and confidence in the goodness of God.

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 76 76 Episode 76: Finding our way full 010a9334-ef4c-4bec-98b3-a7a73d4b324a https://share.transistor.fm/s/e47e2c8b Do you know the feeling of having lost your way? I suspect the psalmist did too. In the middle of Psalm 25, the psalmist prays repeatedly to be taught God’s way. This is reminiscent of Psalm 1, which teaches God’s people to see life as a choice between the way of righteousness and the way of wickedness.

]]> Do you know the feeling of having lost your way? I suspect the psalmist did too. In the middle of Psalm 25, the psalmist prays repeatedly to be taught God’s way. This is reminiscent of Psalm 1, which teaches God’s people to see life as a choice between the way of righteousness and the way of wickedness.

]]> Thu, 21 Aug 2025 20:32:09 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 430 Do you know the feeling of having lost your way? I suspect the psalmist did too. In the middle of Psalm 25, the psalmist prays repeatedly to be taught God’s way. This is reminiscent of Psalm 1, which teaches God’s people to see life as a choice between the way of righteousness and the way of wickedness.

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 77 77 Episode 77: A covenant God full a3a45047-b515-4530-80df-d0cd2ce6d3fc https://share.transistor.fm/s/f3a966f8 Covenant is an important theme in Psalm 25; it would have been intrinsic to the psalmist’s understanding of God’s relationship to his people. Covenants are not the same as contracts; they demand a greater degree of loyalty. The psalm reminds us that throughout the Old Testament story, God remains true to his covenant promises even when his people don’t live up to their side of the covenant commitment.

]]> Covenant is an important theme in Psalm 25; it would have been intrinsic to the psalmist’s understanding of God’s relationship to his people. Covenants are not the same as contracts; they demand a greater degree of loyalty. The psalm reminds us that throughout the Old Testament story, God remains true to his covenant promises even when his people don’t live up to their side of the covenant commitment.

]]> Thu, 21 Aug 2025 20:32:34 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 414 Covenant is an important theme in Psalm 25; it would have been intrinsic to the psalmist’s understanding of God’s relationship to his people. Covenants are not the same as contracts; they demand a greater degree of loyalty. The psalm reminds us that throughout the Old Testament story, God remains true to his covenant promises even when his people don’t live up to their side of the covenant commitment.

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 78 78 Episode 78: Fear and friendship full 14c763fe-70c3-4b7f-b467-9695bf548f4a https://share.transistor.fm/s/ad0f08b0 Psalm 25 mentions another important biblical theme: the fear of God. It’s not a concept that comes easily to Christians who have only heard about God’s love and grace—but we can see it even in the gospels. This is not the fear of abuse, but awe at the recognition of God’s holiness and power. And the psalmist teaches that God draws near to those who fear him.

]]> Psalm 25 mentions another important biblical theme: the fear of God. It’s not a concept that comes easily to Christians who have only heard about God’s love and grace—but we can see it even in the gospels. This is not the fear of abuse, but awe at the recognition of God’s holiness and power. And the psalmist teaches that God draws near to those who fear him.

]]> Thu, 21 Aug 2025 20:33:16 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 474 Psalm 25 mentions another important biblical theme: the fear of God. It’s not a concept that comes easily to Christians who have only heard about God’s love and grace—but we can see it even in the gospels. This is not the fear of abuse, but awe at the recognition of God’s holiness and power. And the psalmist teaches that God draws near to those who fear him.

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 79 79 Episode 79: Don’t let me be put to shame full 06cbef51-0f69-4ff4-bf5a-dfb69f96bb53 https://share.transistor.fm/s/3fef8097 Though shame and guilt are often intertwined or even mistaken for each other, they are not the same. Brené Brown suggests that shame can leave one feeling “trapped, powerless, and isolated.” Likewise, in Psalm 25, the psalmist prays to be saved from shame, and uses imagery that suggests being trapped, powerless, and isolated.

]]> Though shame and guilt are often intertwined or even mistaken for each other, they are not the same. Brené Brown suggests that shame can leave one feeling “trapped, powerless, and isolated.” Likewise, in Psalm 25, the psalmist prays to be saved from shame, and uses imagery that suggests being trapped, powerless, and isolated.

]]> Fri, 22 Aug 2025 09:37:04 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 423 Though shame and guilt are often intertwined or even mistaken for each other, they are not the same. Brené Brown suggests that shame can leave one feeling “trapped, powerless, and isolated.” Likewise, in Psalm 25, the psalmist prays to be saved from shame, and uses imagery that suggests being trapped, powerless, and isolated.

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 80 80 Episode 80: A trustworthy haven full 5ca3243b-1a2e-4f96-962d-846da5cdd133 https://share.transistor.fm/s/e5a5e3b5 The author of Psalm 25 has been set upon by powerful and treacherous enemies, and prays that they will not put him to shame. Yet the psalm still includes a note of hope and begins and ends in a spirit of trust. In this episode, I’ll suggest the kinds of prayers the psalm might encourage: prayers for help, but also prayers of trust.

]]> The author of Psalm 25 has been set upon by powerful and treacherous enemies, and prays that they will not put him to shame. Yet the psalm still includes a note of hope and begins and ends in a spirit of trust. In this episode, I’ll suggest the kinds of prayers the psalm might encourage: prayers for help, but also prayers of trust.

]]> Fri, 22 Aug 2025 09:37:40 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 456 The author of Psalm 25 has been set upon by powerful and treacherous enemies, and prays that they will not put him to shame. Yet the psalm still includes a note of hope and begins and ends in a spirit of trust. In this episode, I’ll suggest the kinds of prayers the psalm might encourage: prayers for help, but also prayers of trust.

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 81 81 Episode 81: In a dry and parched land full d1adb6bc-12e3-47a2-b134-924f93ea598c https://share.transistor.fm/s/ae12dfe8 Psalms 42 opens with a line made famous by a contemporary worship song: “As the deer panteth for the water, so my soul longeth after thee.” The language of the psalm, together with its companion, Psalm 43 (which should be read with it, back to back), suggests that the psalmist is suffering from a kind of spiritual depression and feeling alienated from God.

]]> Psalms 42 opens with a line made famous by a contemporary worship song: “As the deer panteth for the water, so my soul longeth after thee.” The language of the psalm, together with its companion, Psalm 43 (which should be read with it, back to back), suggests that the psalmist is suffering from a kind of spiritual depression and feeling alienated from God.

]]> Thu, 04 Sep 2025 11:18:32 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 441 Psalms 42 opens with a line made famous by a contemporary worship song: “As the deer panteth for the water, so my soul longeth after thee.” The language of the psalm, together with its companion, Psalm 43 (which should be read with it, back to back), suggests that the psalmist is suffering from a kind of spiritual depression and feeling alienated from God.

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 82 82 Episode 82: Hope in a season of drought full 18e360dc-2931-4f10-9270-98a4e5a5f989 https://share.transistor.fm/s/982b8fda In Psalms 42 and 43, the psalmist is longing desperately for God’s presence. Nevertheless, the psalmist cultivates hope by choosing to remember past times of God’s faithfulness, then anticipating that God will continue to be faithful.

]]> In Psalms 42 and 43, the psalmist is longing desperately for God’s presence. Nevertheless, the psalmist cultivates hope by choosing to remember past times of God’s faithfulness, then anticipating that God will continue to be faithful.

]]> Thu, 04 Sep 2025 11:19:13 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 449 In Psalms 42 and 43, the psalmist is longing desperately for God’s presence. Nevertheless, the psalmist cultivates hope by choosing to remember past times of God’s faithfulness, then anticipating that God will continue to be faithful.

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 83 83 Episode 83: To sing and be sung full 71764702-0090-4b5a-9663-da1f0d02afc5 https://share.transistor.fm/s/9204519c Psalms 42 and 43, taken together, gives us a portrait of someone feeling neglected by God and praying earnestly to know his love and care again. The psalmist anticipates being able to celebrate God’s answer in music and song. What role do songs play in a life of faith and worship?

]]> Psalms 42 and 43, taken together, gives us a portrait of someone feeling neglected by God and praying earnestly to know his love and care again. The psalmist anticipates being able to celebrate God’s answer in music and song. What role do songs play in a life of faith and worship?

]]> Thu, 04 Sep 2025 11:19:44 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 404 Psalms 42 and 43, taken together, gives us a portrait of someone feeling neglected by God and praying earnestly to know his love and care again. The psalmist anticipates being able to celebrate God’s answer in music and song. What role do songs play in a life of faith and worship?

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 84 84 Episode 84: Hear me, heal me (part 1) full 52b968bc-8dc2-43a3-9e62-508160e67f33 https://share.transistor.fm/s/b97a6d27 Psalm 1 seems to promise a peace-filled life to all God’s faithful—but the trials we all experience seem to suggest that the truth is more complicated. That complexity can be found throughout the Psalter. Psalm 6, a prayer for healing from what appears to be a life-threatening condition, is a good example of the depth of suffering expressed in many psalms of lament.

]]> Psalm 1 seems to promise a peace-filled life to all God’s faithful—but the trials we all experience seem to suggest that the truth is more complicated. That complexity can be found throughout the Psalter. Psalm 6, a prayer for healing from what appears to be a life-threatening condition, is a good example of the depth of suffering expressed in many psalms of lament.

]]> Wed, 10 Sep 2025 15:13:05 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 396 Psalm 1 seems to promise a peace-filled life to all God’s faithful—but the trials we all experience seem to suggest that the truth is more complicated. That complexity can be found throughout the Psalter. Psalm 6, a prayer for healing from what appears to be a life-threatening condition, is a good example of the depth of suffering expressed in many psalms of lament.

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 85 85 Episode 85: Hear me, heal me (part 2) full 646d810c-c18c-4030-8eaa-0b3927509be6 https://share.transistor.fm/s/3af4c482 When people tell their story of suffering, they need to feel heard. In Psalm 6, the psalmist pours out an intense complaint of physical and emotional suffering. At the same time, however, the psalmist is confident that God hears and draws comfort from that fact. Do we have a similar confidence that God is attentive to our prayers?

]]> When people tell their story of suffering, they need to feel heard. In Psalm 6, the psalmist pours out an intense complaint of physical and emotional suffering. At the same time, however, the psalmist is confident that God hears and draws comfort from that fact. Do we have a similar confidence that God is attentive to our prayers?

]]> Wed, 10 Sep 2025 15:13:51 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 392 When people tell their story of suffering, they need to feel heard. In Psalm 6, the psalmist pours out an intense complaint of physical and emotional suffering. At the same time, however, the psalmist is confident that God hears and draws comfort from that fact. Do we have a similar confidence that God is attentive to our prayers?

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 86 86 Episode 86: On a first-name basis full c90e35da-6828-477a-bb13-aadd273e3d7c https://share.transistor.fm/s/edf1b939 God revealed himself by name to Moses at the burning bush; in English translations of the Old Testament, that name is rendered as “the LORD.” But when we read that in the Psalms, we should remember that this is the psalmist addressing God personally by name. Psalm 6 is a deeply personal plea, and it’s striking how many times the name of God is used.

]]> God revealed himself by name to Moses at the burning bush; in English translations of the Old Testament, that name is rendered as “the LORD.” But when we read that in the Psalms, we should remember that this is the psalmist addressing God personally by name. Psalm 6 is a deeply personal plea, and it’s striking how many times the name of God is used.

]]> Wed, 10 Sep 2025 15:14:19 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 387 God revealed himself by name to Moses at the burning bush; in English translations of the Old Testament, that name is rendered as “the LORD.” But when we read that in the Psalms, we should remember that this is the psalmist addressing God personally by name. Psalm 6 is a deeply personal plea, and it’s striking how many times the name of God is used.

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 87 87 Episode 87: Why should God act? full e243838f-58dd-4c42-bd1f-87ae7831c3df https://share.transistor.fm/s/ea3e9bf0 Psalms of lament often include reasons as to why God should grant the psalmist’s prayer. Psalm 6 gives two reasons. The first one is straightforward: God should do this because of his “unfailing love.” But the second is more obscure: the psalmist asks to be saved because the dead don’t praise God. How should we understand this?

]]> Psalms of lament often include reasons as to why God should grant the psalmist’s prayer. Psalm 6 gives two reasons. The first one is straightforward: God should do this because of his “unfailing love.” But the second is more obscure: the psalmist asks to be saved because the dead don’t praise God. How should we understand this?

]]> Wed, 10 Sep 2025 15:14:48 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 391 Psalms of lament often include reasons as to why God should grant the psalmist’s prayer. Psalm 6 gives two reasons. The first one is straightforward: God should do this because of his “unfailing love.” But the second is more obscure: the psalmist asks to be saved because the dead don’t praise God. How should we understand this?

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 88 88 Episode 88: But I’m innocent! (I think…) full 1464e17b-5499-45ba-b987-7ae1748bcf0b https://share.transistor.fm/s/d5932f4e Earlier, we saw how Psalm 51, attributed to David after he had been confronted by the prophet Nathan, was filled with words of remorse and repentance. But other psalms, like Psalm 7, protest the poet’s innocence while calling upon God to wipe out their adversaries. It’s a dangerous prayer. Is it possible to pray it with honesty and humility?

]]> Earlier, we saw how Psalm 51, attributed to David after he had been confronted by the prophet Nathan, was filled with words of remorse and repentance. But other psalms, like Psalm 7, protest the poet’s innocence while calling upon God to wipe out their adversaries. It’s a dangerous prayer. Is it possible to pray it with honesty and humility?

]]> Wed, 10 Sep 2025 15:15:11 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 455 Earlier, we saw how Psalm 51, attributed to David after he had been confronted by the prophet Nathan, was filled with words of remorse and repentance. But other psalms, like Psalm 7, protest the poet’s innocence while calling upon God to wipe out their adversaries. It’s a dangerous prayer. Is it possible to pray it with honesty and humility?

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 89 89 Episode 89: Giving birth to sin full 27f02f68-33ad-4679-9420-8274718ebdb0 https://share.transistor.fm/s/44e087b6 In Psalm 7, the psalmist prays for an end to violence in a way that itself sounds violent. And along the way, the psalmist describes sin in a way that suggests a perversion of the way things should be. In this episode, I’ll illustrate this with a reference to…the sci-fi horror classic, Alien.  

]]> In Psalm 7, the psalmist prays for an end to violence in a way that itself sounds violent. And along the way, the psalmist describes sin in a way that suggests a perversion of the way things should be. In this episode, I’ll illustrate this with a reference to…the sci-fi horror classic, Alien.  

]]> Wed, 10 Sep 2025 15:15:45 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 478 In Psalm 7, the psalmist prays for an end to violence in a way that itself sounds violent. And along the way, the psalmist describes sin in a way that suggests a perversion of the way things should be. In this episode, I’ll illustrate this with a reference to…the sci-fi horror classic, Alien.  

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 90 90 Episode 90: Boomerang full d6267be0-6e31-40c5-ab43-3e50fe6d2f8c https://share.transistor.fm/s/b0debbbc Throughout the Psalms, the psalmists' enemies are portrayed as godless people who lie, scheme, and use violence to get their way. But the psalmists give us a vision of a world in which God, in righteousness and justice, must have the last word. And as Psalm 7 suggests, that means that sometimes the violence of the wicked will backfire and bring violence upon themselves.

]]> Throughout the Psalms, the psalmists' enemies are portrayed as godless people who lie, scheme, and use violence to get their way. But the psalmists give us a vision of a world in which God, in righteousness and justice, must have the last word. And as Psalm 7 suggests, that means that sometimes the violence of the wicked will backfire and bring violence upon themselves.

]]> Wed, 10 Sep 2025 15:16:10 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 408 Throughout the Psalms, the psalmists' enemies are portrayed as godless people who lie, scheme, and use violence to get their way. But the psalmists give us a vision of a world in which God, in righteousness and justice, must have the last word. And as Psalm 7 suggests, that means that sometimes the violence of the wicked will backfire and bring violence upon themselves.

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 91 91 Episode 91: Sometimes, you want to scream full 392ee225-e228-41a3-9cd0-9d340be6a169 https://share.transistor.fm/s/49af8306 It’s one thing to complain to God about our personal troubles like persecution or illness. But it’s another to see beyond these to the sorry and broken state of humanity as a whole. Psalm 14, together with its near-twin Psalm 53, laments over the foolishness and corruption of the human race.

]]> It’s one thing to complain to God about our personal troubles like persecution or illness. But it’s another to see beyond these to the sorry and broken state of humanity as a whole. Psalm 14, together with its near-twin Psalm 53, laments over the foolishness and corruption of the human race.

]]> Wed, 10 Sep 2025 15:16:52 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 429 It’s one thing to complain to God about our personal troubles like persecution or illness. But it’s another to see beyond these to the sorry and broken state of humanity as a whole. Psalm 14, together with its near-twin Psalm 53, laments over the foolishness and corruption of the human race.

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 92 92 Episode 92: Spoiled rotten full c818d2ea-161e-45da-bc94-f18b4e370159 https://share.transistor.fm/s/96540814 The psalmists clearly display negative emotions in their writing, but seldom name those emotions, leaving them open to interpretation. Often, their words seem to express anger or fear, particularly with regard to their enemies. I suspect, however, that one of the main emotions expressed in Psalms 14 and 53 is disgust—disgust at the sinful and corrupt state of humankind.

]]> The psalmists clearly display negative emotions in their writing, but seldom name those emotions, leaving them open to interpretation. Often, their words seem to express anger or fear, particularly with regard to their enemies. I suspect, however, that one of the main emotions expressed in Psalms 14 and 53 is disgust—disgust at the sinful and corrupt state of humankind.

]]> Wed, 10 Sep 2025 15:17:17 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 455 The psalmists clearly display negative emotions in their writing, but seldom name those emotions, leaving them open to interpretation. Often, their words seem to express anger or fear, particularly with regard to their enemies. I suspect, however, that one of the main emotions expressed in Psalms 14 and 53 is disgust—disgust at the sinful and corrupt state of humankind.

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 93 93 Episode 93: Beyond us and them full 9dbed9ad-c6b7-4531-aac5-b15ff8571c17 https://share.transistor.fm/s/7f62a44b The poet who wrote Psalm 14 (and perhaps Psalm 53 as well) says that there isn’t a single person in the world who does good—but also suggests that God is present among the righteous. Is the psalmist saying that everyone is corrupt, including God’s people? Or is he only talking about the people’s enemies? Here, we’ll explore how the apostle Paul might read it, as he quotes Psalms 14 and 53.

]]> The poet who wrote Psalm 14 (and perhaps Psalm 53 as well) says that there isn’t a single person in the world who does good—but also suggests that God is present among the righteous. Is the psalmist saying that everyone is corrupt, including God’s people? Or is he only talking about the people’s enemies? Here, we’ll explore how the apostle Paul might read it, as he quotes Psalms 14 and 53.

]]> Wed, 10 Sep 2025 15:17:46 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 485 The poet who wrote Psalm 14 (and perhaps Psalm 53 as well) says that there isn’t a single person in the world who does good—but also suggests that God is present among the righteous. Is the psalmist saying that everyone is corrupt, including God’s people? Or is he only talking about the people’s enemies? Here, we’ll explore how the apostle Paul might read it, as he quotes Psalms 14 and 53.

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 94 94 Episode 94: Waiting, waiting, waiting full 85e34fdf-7bf3-44bf-8984-476500fd72fd https://share.transistor.fm/s/db66ccba “How long, LORD?” It’s a common complaint in the Psalms. We’re not always told what the psalmists are suffering, nor how long they’ve had to prayerfully endure, waiting for God to do something. But at some point, the psalmists have to express their anguished impatience—and they sometimes do so in a no-holds-barred fashion. Psalm 13 is a short and excellent example of this, illustration the necessary tension between praise and lament in the psalms. 

]]> “How long, LORD?” It’s a common complaint in the Psalms. We’re not always told what the psalmists are suffering, nor how long they’ve had to prayerfully endure, waiting for God to do something. But at some point, the psalmists have to express their anguished impatience—and they sometimes do so in a no-holds-barred fashion. Psalm 13 is a short and excellent example of this, illustration the necessary tension between praise and lament in the psalms. 

]]> Wed, 10 Sep 2025 15:18:16 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 444 “How long, LORD?” It’s a common complaint in the Psalms. We’re not always told what the psalmists are suffering, nor how long they’ve had to prayerfully endure, waiting for God to do something. But at some point, the psalmists have to express their anguished impatience—and they sometimes do so in a no-holds-barred fashion. Psalm 13 is a short and excellent example of this, illustration the necessary tension between praise and lament in the psalms. 

]]> Bible, Old Testament, Psalms No 95 95 Episode 95: With friends like these… full 25557062-d7c9-4f96-b683-6084bbaa737a https://share.transistor.fm/s/f8c84c3f Some scholars, in reading Psalm 55, have found it to be incoherent. At first, the psalmist seems to be complaining about being persecuted by enemies. But there’s a sudden shift halfway through the psalm: now the complaint seems to be about being betrayed by a friend. There are no easy answers here, but there is much to learn about the reality of betrayal and how we might respond. 

]]> Some scholars, in reading Psalm 55, have found it to be incoherent. At first, the psalmist seems to be complaining about being persecuted by enemies. But there’s a sudden shift halfway through the psalm: now the complaint seems to be about being betrayed by a friend. There are no easy answers here, but there is much to learn about the reality of betrayal and how we might respond. 

]]> Wed, 10 Sep 2025 15:18:46 -0700 Cameron Lee Cameron Lee 467 Some scholars, in reading Psalm 55, have found it to be incoherent. At first, the psalmist seems to be complaining about being persecuted by enemies. But there’s a sudden shift halfway through the psalm: now the complaint seems to be about being betrayed by a friend. There are no easy answers here, but there is much to learn about the reality of betrayal and how we might respond. 

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