Bible Study
by Richard Moore
Lesson 8
Psalm 77
Day One
Our Prayer Unto God
Psalm 77:1
“My voice came to God, and I cried. This is not a mere complaint, as some interpreters explain it,
denoting the surprise which the people of God felt in finding that he who hitherto had been accustomed
to grant their requests shut his ears to them, and was called upon in vain. It appears more probable that
the prophet either speaks of the present feeling of his mind, or else calls to remembrance how he had
experienced that God was inclined and ready to hear his prayers. There can be no doubt that he
describes the greatness of the sorrow with which he was afflicted; and, in my opinion, he denotes a
continued act both by the past and the future tenses of the verbs. In the first place, he declares that he
did not foolishly rend the air with his cries, like many who pour forth bitter cries without measure and
at random under their sorrows; but that he addressed his speech to God when necessity constrained him
to cry. The copula and, which is joined to the verb cried, should be resolved into the adverb of time
when, in this way, When I cried my voice came to God. At the same time, he also shows, that although
he had been constrained often to reiterate his cries, he had not given over persevering in prayer. What is
added immediately after is intended for the confirmation of his faith: And he heard me. The copula and,
as in many other places, is here put instead of the causal adverb for. The meaning is, that he encouraged
himself to cry to God, from the consideration that it was God’s usual manner to show his favor and
mercy towards him.” Commentary by Calvin
Scripture Reading for this Lesson:
Psalm116:1-2 “I love the LORD, because he hath heard my voice and my supplications. Because
he hath inclined his ear unto me, therefore will I call upon him as long as I live.”
Read Also: Nehemiah 9:4; Psalm 30:8; Isaiah 26;16; Romans 8:26.
Consider the following Questions in the Discussion:
1. What is the importance that Asaph cried unto God with his voice?
2. Why does he emphasize that he prays to God with his voice?
3. What does Asaph mean when he says that God gave ear unto him?
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4. Does God so hear our prayers today? How do you know?
5. He does not pray to himself but to God, do you think it is possible to pray to yourselves?
6. What would that mean in your prayer, that is to pray to self?
A few thoughts concerning this passage?
As we take up the study of this Psalm we find that the writer again turns his attention to the portion
which he finds is his in this life. But we also see that in this Psalm that he knows that He may turn to
God in his needs. We see that by the fact that he begins this Psalm by telling us that he cried unto God.
When he does so he tells us that he did so with his voice. It is the way we usually call upon God,
even in so called silent prayer, we mouth our words when praying to God, and normally our prayers are
made with our mouths or voice. He directs his voice and prayer to God, he does not pray to be heard
by man as the pharisees were prone to do, but his prayer is a cry unto God. It will become evident,
through our study of this Psalm that he does so to give God glory. This is true even as he recounts his
trials and where these trials will lead him in his confession.
Emphatically, he does not pray to himself, as again we know that the pharisee did in the parable of
Jesus where he extolled all that he felt he did. But in all humility he turns to the only One Who is
worthy of our prayers. He calls upon God and will rely upon His mercy and His care based upon God's
faithfulness. Only the covenant God Who is the living God and Who providentially rules over all
things for our good, can possibly answer our prayers.
Now because Jehovah has eternally determined not only our place in His covenant fellowship, but
also because He rules over all things according to His determinate counsel, does He hear and answer
our prayers. He gives ear unto our cry.
This is not true only for Asaph but also for us. We need also to so pray to God as we pass through
this life with its many trials. This means we may not be self-centered in our life or in our prayer. We
easily can be self-centered in our own prayers. We sometimes do this when our prayers are only about
our own desires, and when we would boast in our prayers about our worthiness. But this would always
be only vanity and would accomplish nothing positive for us. God does not hear such prayer made in
sin.
But we may call upon our covenant God with all our needs, by crying unto Him as our faithful
Father in Christ Jesus our Lord. For Christ's sake we pray, trusting in the mercies of the living God.
And he hears and answers our prayer. And we know this because of His testimony in our hearts by His
Spirit and Word.
Conclusion: May we turn often unto God, He is our help and our shield.
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Day Two
Remembering God Even When Our Spirit Is Overwhelmed
Psalm 77:2-3
Now, when he affirms that he sought the Lord in the day of his trouble, and that his hands were
stretched out to him in the night season, this denotes that prayer was his continual exercise, — that his
heart was so earnestly and unweariedly engaged in that exercise, that he could not desist from it. In the
concluding sentence of the verse the adversative particle although is to be supplied; and thus the
meaning will be, that although the prophet found no solace and no alleviation of the bitterness of his
grief, he still continued to stretch forth his hands to God. In this manner it becomes us to wrestle
against despair, in order that our sorrow, although it may seem to be incurable, may not shut our
mouths, and keep us from pouring out our prayers before God. ... The prophet, however, does not
mean that his heart was thrown into new distress and disquietude whenever God was brought to his
recollection: he only laments that no consolation proceeded from God to afford him relief; and this is a
trial which it is very hard to bear. It is not surprising to see the wicked racked with dreadful mental
agony; for, since their great object and endeavor is to depart from God, they must suffer the punishment
which they deserve, on account of their rebellion against him. But when the remembrance of God, from
which we seek to draw consolation for mitigating our calamities, does not afford repose or tranquility
to our minds, we are ready to think that he is sporting with us. We are nevertheless taught from this
passage, that however much we may experience of fretting, sorrow, and disquietude, we must persevere
in calling upon God even in the midst of all these impediments." Commentary by Calvin
Scripture Reading for this Lesson:
Hosea 6:1-3 "Come, and let us return unto the LORD: for he hath torn, and he will heal us; he hath
smitten, and he will bind us up. After two days will he revive us: in the third day he will raise us up,
and we shall live in his sight. Then shall we know, if we follow on to know the LORD: his going forth
is prepared as the morning; and he shall come unto us as the rain, as the latter and former rain unto the
earth."
Read Also: Psalm 6:2-3; Psalm 142:2-3; Psalm 61:2; Jeremiah 17:17.
Consider the following Questions in the Discussion:
1. In the day of trouble what did the Psalmist do?
2. Do we do this in the day of our troubles? Discuss
3. What does the fact that his soul refused to be comforted teach us about the Psalmist?
4. What does it mean that he remembered God?
5. Can you find an instance in Christ's life that speaks of His spirit being troubled?
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A few thoughts concerning this passage:
A few of the commentators point out that the hebrew word for "sore" can also be interpreted lifted
hands. Calvin is one of these. It really is not so important here, if we were to read it this way it would
mean that in the night he prayed with lifted hands, and ceased not through the night. He prayed all
night. If we interpret it as the King James Version, then we take note that the writer says he sought the
Lord in the day of his trouble and although his sore ran in the night, he ceased not to seek the Lord. So
that in the context we find the holy writer saying that he prayed unto God when troubles surrounded
him even during the night.
He was not however, delivered from his suffering immediately but it continued to be with him. We
think of Paul's praying when the thorn in his flesh that was constantly with him, and which led him to
repeatedly pray to God concerning it, yet it pleased God not to remove it. cf. II Corinthians 12:8 ff.
Thus we read that even although Asaph prayed through the day and night his spirit was overwhelmed.
He had such suffering at this time that even though he sought grace to bear it, and prayed that if it be
God's will that his suffering may be removed, he still felt the weight pressing upon him.
We also have times in our life when this is true, whether the trials be that of the physical suffering
and difficulties in this life, such as sickness or loss of job, or some other stress. Or those times of
exceeding stress can come as a result of our own sinfulness, or sins. And when we pray to God, and
seek Him and His mercy to deliver, and even as we trust that He hears, it does not mean that the
burdens in this life is immediately gone, and they can indeed be heavy.
Even our Lord Jesus Christ was troubled in His spirit, cf. John 12:27; John 13:21;John 11:33. He
also prayed to God but in harmony with the Father's will His suffering would even increase. Jesus
however continued faithfully to call upon Father and did so seeking His care and grace. Thus did the
Psalmist pray and yet suffer, and so shall we by God's grace.
It is evident that He did not cease to believe God's grace and favor was with Him, and did not
believe that God would not hear as he cried, the opposite in fact is true. He remembered God,
remembered His promises, His faithfulness with His people, His care of him in the past. It is true that
as He remembered God's faithfulness he was troubled, and brought his complaint before God, and yet
was overwhelmed in spirit, but he prayed knowing God would hear and grant him his need according to
God's will. The term complained literally means to ponder, to converse with oneself, then to meditate
or to complain. So that we understand that the psalmist pondered his suffering and God's will with him
and his spirit was troubled. Which in turn would lead to further contemplation and prayer.
Conclusion: When we are troubled in spirit, when we suffer, may we likewise turn to God in our
prayers, and may we remember God and trust in His covenant faithfulness.
Day Three
Considering Days of Old
Psalm 77:4-6
“I have thought on ancient days” (ver. 5). Now he, as if he were one who had been beaten out of
doors, hath taken refuge within: he is conversing in the secret place of his own heart. And let him
declare to us what he is doing there. It is well with him. Observe what things he is thinking of, I pray
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you. He is within, in his own house he is thinking of ancient days. No one saith to him, thou hast
spoken ill: no one saith to him, thou hast spoken much: no one saith to him, thou hast thought
perversely. Thus may it be well with him, may God aid him: let him think of the ancient days, and let
him tell us what he hath done in his very inner chamber, whereunto he hath arrived, over what he hath
leaped, where he hath abode. “I have thought on ancient days; and of eternal years I have been
mindful.” What are eternal years? It is a mighty thought. See whether this thought requireth anything
but great silence. Apart from all noise without, from all tumult of things human let him remain quiet
within, that would think of those eternal years. Are the years wherein we are eternal, or those wherein
our ancestors have been, or those wherein our posterity are to be? Far be it that they should be
esteemed eternal. For what part of these years doth remain?" Commentary by Augustine
Scripture Reading for this Lesson:
Psalm 143:6 "Teach me to do thy will; for thou art my God: thy spirit is good; lead me into the
land of uprightness."
Read Also: Psalm 6:6; Isaiah 63:11-12; Lamentations 1:7; Isaiah 51:9
Consider the following Questions in the Discussion:
1. In what sense was it God who held the writer's eyes waking?
2. Have you experienced this kind of trouble that kept you from sleep?
3. Could you say that it was God that kept you awake, or was it your own sin?
4. Why do we read that Asaph considered the days of old, the years of ancient times?
5. What song do you believe he remembered?
6. Why does this passage speak of Asaph's prayer and even remembering at night time?
A few thoughts concerning this passage:
Asaph attributes to God his staying awake with thoughts of his life's portion and his troubles. He
acknowledges by this that God sends the trials in this life, and He is the one that makes us to ponder the
reasons. No hardness of heart for Asaph, but he considers all the reasons for his present place, and this
in light of God's sovereignty in providence. He knows that God is bringing him to the bed in trouble,
and must consider his own sin, but also the reasons God has determined to try him. Of course we
cannot always determine those reasons, in fact often cannot determine them, but we with Asaph while
not being able to sleep, can then cry to God. And not only this, we then remember the days of
thanksgiving we had before in days gone by. And the song of the child of God is one of praise for God
Who has cared for him and Who has abundantly blessed us, notwithstanding our utter unworthiness.
We turn to considering the days of old and the years of ancient times. The idea of ancient is a
reference to days unknown. The word could refer to everlasting or eternal times. We then are given in
these times as children of God to remember the covenant faithfulness of our God towards us and
towards His people in the past. He is the merciful God of grace, Who delivers His people from their
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sin, and their troubles. Thus with Asaph we too should spend times like this with the songs of
thanksgiving upon our lips, and commune with our own hearts and spirit, and thus, even as we will see
of Asaph in the Psalm, we will rest in the Lord.
Conclusion: May we learn in our times of trial to so call upon the Lord, and while the trials and
trouble may be great, we too shall learn to cast all of our cares upon God for he does care for us.
Consider the days of old, and look to the days eternal.
Day Four
Could God Forget To Be Gracious?
Psalm 77:7-9
From this we may gather the profitable lesson, that we ought not to be unduly disquieted, if God
should at any time withdraw his word from us. It should be borne in mind, that he tries his own people
by such wonderful methods, that they imagine the whole of Scripture to be turned from its proper end,
and that although they are desirous to hear God speaking, they yet cannot be brought to apply his words
to their own particular case. This, as I have said, is a distressing and painful thing; but it ought not to
hinder us from engaging in the exercise of prayer. ... Hath God forgotten to be merciful? The prophet
still continues debating with himself the same subject. His object, however, is not to overthrow his
faith, but rather to raise it up. He does not put this question, as if the point to which it refers were a
doubtful matter. It is as if he had said, Hath God forgotten himself? or, hath he changed his nature? for
he cannot be God unless he is merciful. I indeed admit that he did not remain unshaken as if he had had
a heart of steel. But the more violently he was assailed, the more firmly did he lean upon the truth, That
the goodness of God is so inseparably connected with his essence as to render it impossible for him not
to be merciful." Commentary by Calvin
Scripture Reading for this Lesson:
Romans 11:1-2 "I say then, Hath God cast away his people? God forbid. For I also am an Israelite,
of the seed of Abraham, of the tribe of Benjamin. God hath not cast away his people which he
foreknew. Wot ye not what the scripture saith of Elias? how he maketh intercession to God against
Israel, saying,"
Read Also: Lamentations 3:31-32; Romans 9:6; Numbers 23:19; Isaiah 40:27-28.
Consider the following Question in the Discussion:
1. What kind of questions are those found in these verses?
2. Does the writer not know the answers, if so why does he ask them?
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3. Explain why Jehovah cannot cast us off forever, or why His mercy cannot be clean gone
forever?
4. Is it possible for God to forget to be gracious? Explain why or why not?
A few thoughts concerning this passage:
The writer now turns his attention in his time of grief and trouble, more specifically to Jehovah.
He does so as He looks for comfort and to understand more correctly the way in which God leads him.
He asks several rhetorical type questions. They are questions that have only one answer, and the writer
uses them in order to draw his own attention to some of the most wonderful attributes of God as the
covenant God over His people in Christ Jesus.
Will the Lord cast off his people for ever or will he no longer favor them? This question demands
an emphatic no as an answer. For God's people there is no question as to the answer to this, for God is
always faithful to His promise and to His eternal covenant with His children in Christ. The psalmist so
reminds himself of this at this time. God is Jehovah and He changes not, Malachi 3:6.
The same thing is true of the next two verses, and he calls his own attention to God's mercy and
His promises. The Psalmist knew of the mercy of God as he had the testimony of it at the altar when
his sacrifices were made and received of the Lord, it was also a type of that which God had promised
His people from the days of Adam and Eve as we read of that promise in Genesis 3:15. The seed of the
promise would come, and He would make the sacrifice to end all sacrifices. Through the blood that He
would spill on the mercy seat, His body the church, would be delivered from all sin and would be
drawn by the Spirit into everlasting fellowship with God in glory.
God of course cannot forget to be gracious to those whom He has loved from eternity, and the
Psalmist reminds himself of the unchangeableness of God and the enduring nature of His gracious
attitude towards His elect. Thus the mercies of God are not shut up, but he will again experience the
fullness of God's mercy.
Conclusion: We also when we are down, and when we struggle with sin and struggle in the battles of
faith must also remind ourselves of the faithfulness of our covenant God and of His unchangeable
mercy and grace. He remembers His children in love and grace!
Day Five
Remembering the Years of the Right Hand of God
Psalm 77:10
“Now I have begun:” (ver. 10), when I had gone out even from myself. Here henceforth there is
no danger: for even to remain in myself, was danger. “And I said, Now I have begun: this is the
changing of the right hand of the Lofty One.” Now the Lofty One hath begun to change me: now I have
begun something wherein I am secure: now I have entered a certain palace of joys, wherein no enemy
is to be feared: now I have begun to be in that region, where all mine enemies do not anticipate
watches. “Now I have begun: this is the changing of the right hand of the Lofty One.” Commentary by
Augustine
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Scripture Reading for this Lesson:
Lamentations 3:18-22 "And I said, My strength and my hope is perished from the LORD:
Remembering mine affliction and my misery, the wormwood and the gall. My soul hath them still in
remembrance, and is humbled in me. This I recall to my mind, therefore have I hope. It is of the
LORD's mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not."
Read Also: Psalm 31:22-23; Mark 9:24; Psalm 77:5; John 14:1
Consider the following Questions in the Discussion:
1. To what does the term "this" refer to when he says this is my infirmity?
2. To what do you think the infirmity refers?
3. What does the phrase "remember the years of the right hand of the most High." mean?
4. Do we have occasions to remember these years? When, How?
5. Is it good for us to do so?
A few thoughts concerning this passage:
The term "infirmity" literally means to be rubbed or worn, thus to be weak or infirm. There are
times, not a few in this life, that the child of God in his pilgrims path is rubbed or worn by the trials of
this life lived as a child of God. Often in a faithful walk in the midst of the world we come under the
attack of satan in such a manner that we are sorely tempted, and even are led to sin. This of course
causes great stress in the life of the child of God, who principally hates the sin that even he has walked
in. Besides, our sinful nature is such that we have a struggle every day to walk in faith, and the way is
hard. When we fall and are chastened by God in various ways we seem to be outside of His care. And
we are deeply stressed spiritually. But because the spiritual side of our life finds expression through the
physical side of our life, we are worn spiritually and physically, which includes our mental state as
well. Further just living out this life in the midst of the world because of our weakness and frailty
brought about by the fall of man means that we experience many sicknesses and other things that can
also bring us spiritually, and physically low. It may seem as though it would be better to die, and go to
heaven immediately, as Elijah expressed it under the juniper bush.
Now the holy writer in the verses before us expressed this grief and even to an extent despair in
his life and attributes this grief and despair as due to his infirmity, his weakness. But he will not stay in
that state, his infirmity can and will be healed. He will be renewed in his life as God's child. So that he
tells us that he will remember the years or the extended time or even the season of the right hand of the
most High. By this expression the writer explains that he shall turn his thoughts to the right hand of the
most High and this refers to the holy and righteous and faithful care provided him and the saints of the
past as they were kept in the hand of God's power, in all times of trial and trouble.
We too have seen this care of God's hand of power upholding us in the time of our greatest
struggles. We see His faithfulness in never letting us go, and His Fatherly care over us for Christ's
sake. Not because of our work or our goodness, but because of God's faithfulness to His covenant with
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us can we remember this care. Further, we can see this has always been so in the history of God's
people.
Conclusion: What a blessing to know The Most High to be our covenant Father in Christ Jesus our
Lord. He has provided us salvation through the forgiveness of our sin on the basis alone of Christ's
meritorious atonement.
Day Six
Remembering Jehovah's Works
Psalm 77:11
This remembering of the works of God differs from the remembering of which he had previously
spoken. Then he contemplated from a distance the divine benefits, and he found the contemplation of
them inadequate to assuage or mitigate his grief. Here he takes hold of them, so to speak, as assured
testimonies of God’s everlasting grace. To express the greater earnestness, he repeats the same
sentence, interjecting an affirmation; for the word yk, ki, is here used simply to confirm or enhance the
statement. Having then, as it were, obtained the victory, he triumphs in the remembrance of the works
of God, being assuredly persuaded that God would continue the same as he had shown himself to be
from the beginning. In the second clause, he highly extols the power which God had displayed in
preserving his servants: I will remember thy wonderful works from the beginning. He employs the
singular number, thy secret, or thy wonderful work; but I have not hesitated to correct the obscurity by
changing the number. We will find him soon after employing the singular number to denote many
miracles. What he means in short is, that the wonderful power of God which he has always put forth for
the preservation and salvation of his servants, provided we duly reflect upon it, is sufficient to enable
us to overcome all sorrows. Let us learn from this, that, although sometimes the remembrance of the
works of God may bring us less comfort than we would desire, and our circumstances would require,
we must nevertheless strive, that the weariness produced by grief may not break our courage. This is
deserving of our most careful attention. In the time of sorrow, we are always desirous of finding some
remedy to mitigate its bitterness; but the only way by which this can be done is, to cast our cares upon
God." Commentary by Calvin
Scripture Reading for this Lesson:
I Chronicles 16:12-15 "Remember his marvellous works that he hath done, his wonders, and the
judgments of his mouth; O ye seed of Israel his servant, ye children of Jacob, his chosen ones. He is
the LORD our God; his judgments are in all the earth. Be ye mindful always of his covenant; the word
which he commanded to a thousand generations;"
Read Also: Psalm 111:4; Deuteronomy 8:2; Deuteronomy 32:7; Acts 2:11
Consider the following Questions in the Discussion:
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1. Is there a change in this verse as to the attitude of the writer? Explain
2. What is the significance of the use of the name Jehovah in this verse?
3. Why does Asaph repeat himself in this verse?
4. What is the difference in the two parts of this verse?
5. To what do you understand the term "wonders" refers?
A few thoughts concerning this passage:
The Psalmist in this verse begins a section of positive thoughts and expressions of that which he
can do and does. He will remember the works of the the LORD. The Psalmist actually uses the
singular term for work of Jehovah, but because this refers to the whole work of our God, it consists of a
multitude of works that man could witness and see and record. It is therefore for this reason the King
James uses the plural correctly in this instance, and to these works the writer now will turn his
attention. He does so because he knows that this will strengthen his faith, as he considers the faithful
working out the salvation of God's people throughout the history of the church. As he will do this he
uses the name Jehovah (LORD) when referring to God and His works. This is important to him
because Jehovah is God's covenant name and it also at the same time teaches that He is the
unchangeable faithful covenant God. And even more, this name of God also teaches that He is
sovereign in all His works.
These truths are in the heart of Asaph as he would now contemplate His God and the way that He
has always been with His people as they lived as strangers and pilgrims in the midst of this earth. By
doing this Asaph will also see that the way in which he has been led is by the Sovereign work of the
God Who loves Him for Christ's sake. When Jehovah knows us in eternal love, we know that He is
able and does govern all things for our salvation. Wonderful gracious care!
Now Asaph repeats, it seems, this thought, he does so in the first place for emphasis. The ground
for assurance for the tried child of God. In the second place, he makes a change in the second part of
this verse when he speaks specifically of the miracles (wonders) of old. He will remember that even
when it appeared to be impossible for the church to escape the enemy, or the saints to survive the hatred
of the world (Egypt for example), then God delivered them by a mighty arm, even sending wonders to
deliver them (the dividing of the Red Sea for example). God graciously saves by sovereign power His
church.
Conclusion: We also may and must look to the work of God and His wonders. And we see even the
wonder of wonders, when Jehovah our covenant God in love sent His Only Begotten Son to die the
death of atonement to deliver us from all trouble. He bore our curse, that we might not die, but live.
All things serve this blessed purpose of God for His glory and our salvation.
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Day Seven
Talking of God's Doings
Psalm 77:12
"Although he did not immediately experience the benefit which he could have desired, yet he still
continued to set God. before his view, wisely supporting his faith by the reflection, that as God changes
neither his love nor his nature, he cannot but show himself at length merciful to his servants. Let us
also learn to open our eyes to behold the works of God; the excellence of which is of little account in
our estimation, by reason of the dimness of our eyes, and our inadequate perception of them; but which,
if examined attentively, will ravish us with admiration. The Psalmist repeats in the 12th verse, that he
will meditate continually upon these works, until, in due time, he receive the full advantage which this
meditation is calculated to afford. The reason why so many examples of the grace of God contribute
nothing to our profit, and fail in edifying our faith, is, that as soon as we have begun to make them the
subjects of our consideration, our inconstancy draws us away to something else, and thus, at the very
commencement, our minds soon lose sight of them." Commentary by Calvin
Scripture Reading for this Lesson:
Psalm 145:4-12 "One generation shall praise thy works to another, and shall declare thy mighty
acts. I will speak of the glorious honour of thy majesty, and of thy wondrous works. And men shall
speak of the might of thy terrible acts: and I will declare thy greatness. They shall abundantly utter the
memory of thy great goodness, and shall sing of thy righteousness. The LORD is gracious, and full of
compassion; slow to anger, and of great mercy. The LORD is good to all: and his tender mercies are
over all his works. All thy works shall praise thee, O LORD; and thy saints shall bless thee. They shall
speak of the glory of thy kingdom, and talk of thy power; To make known to the sons of men his
mighty acts, and the glorious majesty of his kingdom."
Read Also: Psalm 104:34; I Timothy 4:15; Psalm 105:2-3; Psalm 71:24.
Consider the Following Questions in the Discussion:
1. This verse is similar to the last one, but there is added that the writer says he will talk of God's
doings, what is the importance of this?
2. Not only does he remember the works of God, but ponders or meditates on them, what is the
significance of this?
3. When do you meditate upon God's works?
4. How do you talk about the doings or actions of God?
5. Do we fail to do this as we ought? Explain.
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A few thoughts concerning this passage:
The words used in this passage add the idea that the writer not only remembers the works of God,
and His many miracles performed to save His church when salvation was seemingly impossible. But
now he will ponder them, that is meditate upon them. They shall be the object of his thoughts and thus
of his life. They occupy his mind and his thinking, and of course shall therefore direct his way. We
really need to do this as God's children. Our thoughts do not need to be upon ourselves, but ought to be
on God and His work and way with God's people and know that this will also be true of him as God's
child. When our thoughts and meditation is upon God then we will be filled with confidence. When
our thoughts are upon ourselves then we will have doubts.
But now Asaph says in faith that he will meditate upon all of God's work. And thus he will also
talk of them, first, to himself in prayer and also privately give expression to his meditation upon God's
works. But, secondly he will talk of these mighty acts of God, and of His providential care of His
people to others round about him. When we by faith consider the works of God and His mighty acts of
grace to deliver us from our sin in Christ, how can we be quiet, and not talk about the salvation that
means so much to us. Paul did this when he stood up in the synagogue at Antioch, Acts 13:16ff.
Rather, we must speak of God's gracious care, and His blessed and merciful work of salvation in us.
Conclusion: Let us in faith meditate upon God's ways with His people, and may we know that no
matter how difficult the way, He has shown His love and grace to His people in the past to deliver
them. Surely also He shall so deliver us by His grace in Christ. And we know that the difficulty for us
in the last days shall become ever more difficult for the flesh, but remember and meditate upon the
Sovereign God's providential care of His people, and be assured that He shall give us what we stand in
need of to be saved. Then also let us by grace talk to others about those ways of God with His people
and with us, so, that if it be God's will, they may also come to know the salvation that He works in His
children.
Day Eight
Thy Way in the Sanctuary
Psalm 77:13
"The temple, indeed, in which God manifested himself was, as it were, a heaven on earth. It is
now obvious that the meaning of the inspired writer is, that as at the commencement he had uttered
distressing complaints, so now, having attained to a calm and settled state of mind, he admires and
adores the high ways of God, and conscious of his own weakness, quietly and modestly keeps himself
within the bounds prescribed to him, not permitting himself to judge or pass sentence upon the secret
judgments of God according to the dictates of his own carnal understanding. He therefore immediately
after exclaims, Who is so great a God as our God? By this comparison, he does not mean that there are
many gods, but he indirectly rebukes the deep infatuation of the world who, not contented with the only
true God whose glory is so conspicuous, invent for themselves many gods. If men would look upon the
works of God with pure eyes, they would be led without much difficulty to rest with satisfaction in him
alone." Commentary by Calvin
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Scripture Reading for this Lesson:
Psalm 27:4-6 "One thing have I desired of the LORD, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in
the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the LORD, and to inquire in his
temple. For in the time of trouble he shall hide me in his pavilion: in the secret of his tabernacle shall
he hide me; he shall set me up upon a rock. And now shall mine head be lifted up above mine enemies
round about me: therefore will I offer in his tabernacle sacrifices of joy; I will sing, yea, I will sing
praises unto the LORD."
Read Also: Psalm 63:2; Psalm 89:6-8; Isaiah 40:18; Isaiah 40:25
Consider the following Questions in the Discussion:
1. What is the way of God?
2. In what sense is the way of God to be considered in the sanctuary?
3. Does this gives us reason for joy that God's way is in the sanctuary? Discuss
4. What is the answer to Asaph's question in this verse? How is this important to Asaph?
5. How is this important to you?
A few thoughts concerning this passage?
Asaph continues by expressing positively his thoughts as God leads him to consider those things
that are important in his life as a child of God. He had questions before concerning his portion and
expressed the inability to understand the way of God with him. These questions are now gone as he
turns his attention by grace to God's covenant faithfulness with his people. The question in this verse is
of an altogether different nature, for it is a rhetorical question that requires the answer, there is no one
as great as our God. And this is an expression of his very positive attitude towards the care God
bestows upon him. He now rejoices in God's greatness, His Almighty power whereby He directs all
thing according to His eternal counsel which serves the the salvation of His people in Christ.
This is the reason he speaks of the way of God, the way is the working out of God's Sovereign and
eternal counsel with all things for His Own glory and our salvation. To understand the way of God is
for us possible only in the sanctuary. That is only when we come under the preaching of the Word and
that word is applied to our hearts by the Spirit, only then do we begin to understand the wonderful
working out of God's will to save the chosen and to bring them into His fellowship, now when we
gather with the saints in worship, and soon when we enter the eternal sanctuary (the everlasting
dwelling place of our God with his people).
Conclusion: How very important for us in this pilgrim's journey to go up to our own churches with
our congregation to worship God. For there we receive the revelation of the blessed will of God for us
and for all things. We learn there our calling and are led to a walk of faith whereby we trust in Jehovah
for all of our needs. In this we understand that the mercy of God covers our sin through the blood of
Christ and works all things together for our good, and salvation.
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Day Nine
God's Strength Declared
Psalm 77:14
"Thou art the God that doest wonders. The Psalmist confirms the preceding sentence, proving the
greatness of God from the wonderful character of his works. He does not speak of the hidden and
mysterious essence of God which fills heaven and earth, but of the manifestations of his power,
wisdom, goodness, and righteousness, which are clearly exhibited, although they are too vast for our
limited understandings to comprehend. Literally, the words are, Thou art the God that doest a Wonder;
but the singular number is here evidently put for the plural, an instance of which we have seen before.
From this we learn that the glory of God is so near us, and that he has so openly and clearly unfolded
himself, that we cannot justly pretend any excuse for ignorance. He, indeed, works so wonderfully, that
even the heathen nations are inexcusable for their blindness. For this reason it is added, Thou hast
made known thy strength among the peoples. This has an immediate reference to the deliverance of the
Church" Commentary by Calvin
Scripture Reading for this Lesson:
Revelation 15:3-4 "And they sing the song of Moses the servant of God, and the song of the
Lamb, saying, Great and marvellous are thy works, Lord God Almighty; just and true are thy ways,
thou King of saints. Who shall not fear thee, O Lord, and glorify thy name? for thou only art holy: for
all nations shall come and worship before thee; for thy judgments are made manifest."
Read Also: Psalm 105:5; Psalm 136:4; Joshua 9:9-10; Daniel 6:27.
Consider the following Questions in the Discussion:
1. How does the first part of the verse set our God apart from all other so called gods?
2. To what do the wonders or miracles of God always point?
3. Explain how the Old Dispensation miracles also pointed to this same thing?
4. Who is the object of the declaration of God, according to our text when speaking of the people?
A few thoughts concerning this passage:
The Psalmist calls attention to himself and us the many wonders that God performed in the saving
of His people and the working out of His counsel. These wonders were mighty and could be performed
only by a living God Who is Sovereign in His rule over His creation. All other supposed gods were
only those fashioned from the things that God has made. They have eyes but see not, they have ears
but hear not, they have legs but walk not, etc. They are no God. But our God is in the heavens, He
hath done whatsoever He hath pleased even as we read in Psalm 115:3. They that would serve the idol
gods are like unto them, they shall receive nothing from them, and are deaf and dumb spiritually. The
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idols perish in this earth and so shall those perish that follow them. They can have no hope. But our
God does great wonders, the greatest of these is that to which they all point, God coming in the flesh in
the person of the Son to deliver His people from their sin. Our Lord Who is God takes our flesh to bear
our guilt, and to enter our death to deliver us. All things serve that salvation of the elect unto the glory
of that great God.
Indeed God has declared His strength among the people. The term for people means literally a
people as a congregational unit or a flock figuratively. Thus while some would maintain by His
miracles God declared His strength to the nations round about His people, which also is true,
nevertheless I believe principally He declares His strength to us His people, His flock. He did so in the
old dispensation, and He did so in the sending of His Only Begotten Son in our flesh, and He does so
today as those miracles and THE miracle are declared unto us in the preaching of Christ.
Conclusion: What a reason for comfort in the time of trial and stress. Our God governs all things and
brings to pass His purpose even through means that only God can bring to pass. Through miracles of
old but especially through the miracle of delivering us who were dead in sin and making us alive in
Christ. Indeed all things work together for our salvation. Rejoice, and again I say rejoice.
Day Ten
Redeemed by the Arm of God
Psalm 77:15
It is not, however, so much the design of the prophet to condemn the Gentiles of the sin of
ingratitude, as to furnish himself and others of the children of God matter of hope as to their own
circumstances; for at the time referred to, God openly exhibited for the benefit of all future ages a
proof of his love towards his chosen people. The word arm is here put metaphorically for power of an
extraordinary character, and which is worthy of remembrance. God did not deliver his ancient people
secretly and in an ordinary way, but openly, and, as it were, with his arm stretched forth. The prophet,
by calling the chosen tribes the sons of Jacob and Joseph, assigns the reason why God accounted them
as his people. The reason is, because of the covenant into which he entered with their godly ancestors.
The two tribes which descended from the two sons of Joseph derived their origin from Jacob as well as
the rest; but the name of Joseph is expressed to put honor upon him, by whose instrumentality the
whole race of Abraham were preserved in safety." Commentary by Calvin
Scripture Reading for this Lesson:
Psalm 136:1-16 "O give thanks unto the LORD; for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever.
And brought out Israel from among them: for his mercy endureth for ever: With a strong hand, and
with a stretched out arm: for his mercy endureth for ever. To him which divided the Red sea into parts:
for his mercy endureth for ever: And made Israel to pass through the midst of it: for his mercy endureth
for ever: But overthrew Pharaoh and his host in the Red sea: for his mercy endureth for ever. To him
which led his people through the wilderness: for his mercy endureth for ever."
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Read Also: Exodus 6:6; Deuteronomy 9:29; Genesis 48:3-5; I Chronicles 17:21.
Consider the following Questions for the Discussion:
1. To what does the arm of God refer?
2. When did God redeem His people to which Asaph refers?
3. Why does Asaph refer to the sons of Jacob and Joseph?
4. In particular why does he refer to the sons of Joseph in this connection?
5. Why is this a good place to reach a rest (Selah), a break?
A few thoughts concerning this passage:
Asaph now brings the first part of his positive meditation to an end with this verse. And thus he
closes it with a climax. The climactic thought is God has redeemed His people with His arm. The arm
of God refers to His power. The arm of power is God's arm. This was seen in the wonders He brought
forth when He led His people out of bondage and to the land of promise. This included all the plagues
sent in Egypt. When it was impossible for Israel to deliver themselves from the bondage in Egypt, then
we see the arm of God's power deliver them by grace alone. And this He based upon His mercy as He
redeemed them by the blood of a lamb. By sacrifice and the blood of that sacrifice God delivered His
people from the land of Egypt to bring them into the land of Canaan.
By the reference to Jacob and Joseph we see that the redemption is for a particular people, His
chosen alone. It is accomplished in the line of generations, and this according to His eternal decree of
election. Joseph is referred to somewhat, as Calvin mentions, to point out the miraculous work of
God's arm, that when sin was done and Joseph sold into Egypt, God meant it for good to deliver Israel
from bondage by His mighty arm. And also the mention of Joseph explains how his sons were
included in the inheritance according to the will of God.
Now this is a comfort to Asaph, for when looking at the redemption out of bondage which God
provided Israel, he is assured that God shall redeem him surely from the bondage of sin, or of man, to
deliver him from trouble and to bring him into God's presence in love.
This of course is even more wonderfully reveled to us as we see that by His arm of power and love
God has sent His Son to die on the cross to pay the debt that we owed and to deliver us from the
bondage of sin. When God has so redeemed us by grace alone, we also understand that He shall care
for His redeemed without exception.
Conclusion: Selah! Once again take time to rest in this, to meditate upon it. Our God by His Arm
saves us. None can prevent His work, none can overcome His people, He has redeemed us, He surely
brings us into glory!
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Day Eleven
Creation a Witness of His Power
Psalm 77:16-18
"When it is said that the waters saw God, the language is figurative, implying that they were
moved, as it were, by a secret instinct and impulse to obey the divine command in opening up a
passage for the chosen people. Neither the sea nor the Jordan would have altered their nature, and by
giving place have spontaneously afforded a passage to them, had they not both felt upon them the
power of God. It is not meant that they retired backward because of any judgment and understanding
which they possessed, but that in receding as they did, God showed that even the inanimate elements
are ready to yield obedience to him. There is here an indirect contrast, it being intended to rebuke the
stupidity of men if they do not acknowledge in the redemption of the Israelites from Egypt the presence
and hand of God, which were seen even by the waters. ... The waters of the clouds were poured out.
The meaning obviously is, that not only the sea and the river Jordan, but also the waters which were
suspended in the clouds, yielded to God the honor to which he is entitled, the air, by the concussion of
the thunder, having poured forth copious showers. The object is to show, that, to whatever quarter men
turn their eyes, the glory of God is illustriously manifested, that it is so in every part of creation, above
and beneath, from the height of heaven to the depths of the sea. What history is here referred to is
involved in some degree of uncertainty. Perhaps it is that which is recorded in Exodus 9:23; where we
are informed, that hail mingled with thunder and lightning was one of the dreadful plagues inflicted
upon the Egyptians. The arrows which went abroad are, no doubt, to be taken metaphorically for
lightnings. With this verse we are to connect the following, in which it is said, that the voice of the
thunder was heard in the air, and that the lightnings illumined the world, so that the earth trembled.
The amount is, that at the departure of the people from Egypt, ample testimony was borne to the power
of God, both to the eyes and the ears of men; peals of thunder having been heard in every quarter of the
heavens, and the whole sky having shone with flashes of lightning, while at the same time the earth was
made to tremble." Commentary by Calvin
Scripture Reading for this Lesson:
2 Samuel 22:8-19 "Then the earth shook and trembled; the foundations of heaven moved and
shook, because he was wroth. There went up a smoke out of his nostrils, and fire out of his mouth
devoured: coals were kindled by it. He bowed the heavens also, and came down; and darkness was
under his feet. And he rode upon a cherub, and did fly: and he was seen upon the wings of the wind.
And he made darkness pavilions round about him, dark waters, and thick clouds of the skies. Through
the brightness before him were coals of fire kindled. The LORD thundered from heaven, and the most
High uttered his voice And he sent out arrows, and scattered them; lightning, and discomfited them.
And the channels of the sea appeared, the foundations of the world were discovered, at the rebuking of
the LORD, at the blast of the breath of his nostrils. He sent from above, he took me; he drew me out of
many waters; He delivered me from my strong enemy, and from them that hated me: for they were too
strong for me. They prevented me in the day of my calamity: but the LORD was my stay."
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Read Also: Joshua 3:15-16; Habakkuk 3:8-10; Psalm 68:8-9; Joshua 10:11
Consider the following Questions in the Discussion:
1. When we read that the waters saw God and were afraid, does this mean that the waters could
reason and thus be afraid at the presence of God? Why or Why not?
2. What is then said by this verse about the creation in relation to God and to His people?
3. Give an example from Scripture of the things spoken of in these verses(the waters, the clouds,
the thunder and lightnings, etc.
4. What are the arrows?
5. Why was it important for the writer, to take note of these things?
A few thoughts concerning this passage:
Asaph in these verses now recounts more specifically some of the miracles or wonder works of
God whereby he delivered His people. Doing so the writer also teaches how the very creation must
obey the rule of God not only, but as directed by God, serves the salvation of God's people. And still
further, we are given to understand that even the inanimate creation gives praise to God and His just
judgment and righteous rule over all things. It is not so that the waters could reason or morally take a
decision to serve God, but it does teach that the waters, as it is true of the other parts of creation, are so
ruled by God that they serve His eternal purpose to save His people.
Of course we can know occasions when the truth of these verses are set forth in the Scripture. We
can list some of them such as the dividing of the Red Sea and the Jordan river. This reminded Asaph
that no matter the portion he now experienced that all things even the elements of creation must serve
his spiritual welfare.
May we be reminded of this especially as we come closer to the end of time and we see the
increase of tornadoes, hurricanes, earthquakes, and even the shaking up of the stars of heaven. All
these events also are for our salvation. Even when they directly affect us as well. May we also see the
happenings in creation as so many words of God to us that teach us that Christ is coming quickly, and
may we have grace to be prepared.
Conclusion: Is it not amazing that the creation which the world thinks came into being by chance, and
which is non-rational is exactly a creation that serves God to increase the condemnation of the wicked
world that denies His creation to be His work. On the other hand the creation serves our salvation, and
helps us to be prepared to enter into glory and fellowship with our Lord.
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Day Twelve
God's Footsteps Not Known
Psalm 77:19
"Thus God's way was in the sea, for the destruction of his enemies, as well as for the salvation of
his people; and yet when the waters returned to their place his footsteps were not known (v. 19); there
was no mark set upon the place, as there was, afterwards, in Jordan, Josh 4:9. We do not read in the
story of Israel's passing through the Red Sea that there were thunders and lightning, and an earthquake;
yet there might be, and Josephus says there were, such displays of the divine terror upon that occasion.
But it may refer to the thunders, lightnings, and earth quakes, that were at Mount Sinai when the law
was given. from Matthew Henry's Commentary on the Whole Bible
Scripture Reading for this Lesson:
Exodus 14:27-31 "And Moses stretched forth his hand over the sea, and the sea returned to his
strength when the morning appeared; and the Egyptians fled against it; and the LORD overthrew the
Egyptians in the midst of the sea. And the waters returned, and covered the chariots, and the horsemen,
and all the host of Pharaoh that came into the sea after them; there remained not so much as one of
them. But the children of Israel walked upon dry land in the midst of the sea; and the waters were a
wall unto them on their right hand, and on their left. Thus the LORD saved Israel that day out of the
hand of the Egyptians; and Israel saw the Egyptians dead upon the sea shore. And Israel saw that great
work which the LORD did upon the Egyptians: and the people feared the LORD, and believed the
LORD, and his servant Moses."
Read Also: Nahum 1:3-4; Romans 11:33; Psalm 106:9; Isaiah 43:16
Consider the following Questions in the Discussion:
1. Why is this verse added?
2. How was God's path in the great waters?
3. Does this passage refer alone to the passing of the Red Sea? Discuss
4. Why are not God's footsteps known in His miracles?
A few thoughts concerning this passage:
This verse is added in this passage to point out with clarity that it was God that governed the
history of Israel and their deliverance from bondage and from the enemies. We can say that our
thoughts first go to the deliverance through the Red Sea, and we can see that in a sense that God's was
the way in the sea. The cloud of fire and the pillar of smoke was there, really it typically was Christ
that led them through the sea. As Christ leads us always through the sea of temptation and persecution,
and troubles in this life. His path leads us through the stormy sea of this life, even as it was His path by
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miraculous work that was seen in the Red Sea which served the salvation of His people and the
destruction of His enemies. So that we would conclude that it is God Himself in Christ that ever leads
His people through all their trials. And He saves us. And yet his footsteps are not known, the nations of
unbelief will not and cannot see the salvation that is ours in Christ. Augustine states it this way,
"Behold now the mercy of Christ hath been so published to the Gentiles, that “Thy way is in the sea.
Thy footsteps will not be known.” How so, by whom will they not be known, save by those who still
say, Christ hath not yet come? Why do they say, Christ hath not yet come? Because they do not yet
recognize Him walking on the sea." This was also true of the Pharisees, but Augustine takes the fact
that the Scripture uses the sea figuratively to refer to the Gentile nations, or the nations of unbelief.
And then says when Christ came and literally even walked on the Sea, besides did many other miracles
before the face of man, and yet the unbelievers would not believe God's works nor the salvation that
Christ alone can provide. This is a perspective that is profitable for us to consider.
Conclusion: God's is the path through all our seas, through all the difficulties or trials or troubles that
we face. We are called to pass through these hard ways, but we may always know in this calling is that
God's path is in the great waters. And He knows the way we must pass. The wicked cannot see this,
will not admit that God providentially governs all things. And even for us we cannot search out the
depths of His way, but we do know He loves us in Christ and in Christ has sealed our salvation.
Day Thirteen
Led Like A Flock by God's Hand
Psalm 77:20
The purpose for which this was effected is added in the 20th verse, — the deliverance of the
Church: Thou didst lead thy people like a flock. And this deliverance should be regarded by all the
godly as affording them the best encouragement to cherish the hope of safety and salvation. The
comparison of the people to sheep, tacitly intimates that they were in themselves entirely destitute of
wisdom, power, and courage, and that God, in his great goodness, condescended to perform the office
of a shepherd in leading through the sea, and the wilderness, and all other impediments, his poor flock,
which were destitute of all things, that he might put them in possession of the promised inheritance.
This statement is confirmed, when we are told that Moses and Aaron were the persons employed in
conducting the people. Their service was no doubt illustrious and worthy of being remembered; but
God displayed in no small degree the greatness of his power in opposing two obscure and despised
individuals to the fury and to the great and powerful army of one of the proudest kings who ever sat on
a throne." Commentary by Calvin
Scripture Reading for this Lesson:
Isaiah 63:11-14 "Then he remembered the days of old, Moses, and his people, saying, Where is
he that brought them up out of the sea with the shepherd of his flock? where is he that put his holy
Spirit within him? That led them by the right hand of Moses with his glorious arm, dividing the water
before them, to make himself an everlasting name? That led them through the deep, as an horse in the
wilderness, that they should not stumble? As a beast goeth down into the valley, the Spirit of the
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LORD caused him to rest: so didst thou lead thy people, to make thyself a glorious name."
Read Also: Acts 7:35-37; Psalm 78:52-54; Isaiah 63:11-13; Hebrews 8:9-10.
Consider the following Questions in the Lesson:
1. What particular comfort is it to know that God leads His people like a flock?
2. Why are sheep a good picture of the people of God?
3. What is the relationship between the Shepherd and His Sheep?
4. What are we taught when the text says that we are led like a flock by "the hand of Moses and
Aaron"?
5. Who is the shepherd who leads us through this pilgrimage?
A few thoughts concerning this passage:
This concluding verse is very comforting to Asaph and should be for us. God leads us as a
Shepherd. A Shepherd knows His Sheep and is known of them, says Christ. And Christ is our
Shepherd throughout our lives. The Shepherd realizes that His sheep would be lost without Him to be
the guide. The Shepherd holds precious each of His sheep and so cares for them that none may be lost.
The Shepherd is patient, ever so patient in His care of the sheep. Further, He is the only defense that
the sheep have, for they cannot defend themselves. This is true in the created world, a sheep cannot
defend itself, he becomes the spoil of the wolves and foxes. Just as true it is of us, we like sheep
cannot stand a moment in our own strength in the battle of faith. And the three-fold enemy of satan, the
world, and our own flesh is great; without the Great Shepherd we would be overcome.
The Great Shepherd leads us like a flock. A flock is a unit of a particular number of sheep, whose
number is known by the shepherd, so that if even one is lost he goes out to find it. The shepherd knows
each individual sheep and cares for each sheep within the flock, and thus cares for his flock and keeps
them. So it is with God's Sovereign care of His church in Christ, He knows His flock, it is a
predestined flock according to His perfect will. That flock has a particular number of individuals that
make up its whole, and God shall never lose one member of His chosen people. The body of Christ is
and always will be complete. God cared for his flock in the old dispensation, the holy writer points out,
by the hand of Moses and Aaron. Moses and Aaron were types of Christ, they were the means whereby
God kept Israel (his flock) as they were delivered from the bondage of Egypt and were led through the
wilderness to the land of promise. So Christ is the means whereby God delivers us from the horrible
bondage of sin, and leads us through the wilderness of this life, with all of its trials and tribulations,
safely to bring us together as the body of Christ (the flock) in eternal glory.
Conclusion: This is the blessed wonder of Father's care for us, of the Great Shepherd's work of
salvation that brings to Asaph unsurpassed comfort in the days of his trouble, and leads him through the
trials even to life eternal. This is our comfort especially as the last days more and more press upon us.
Jehovah is our Shepherd in Christ and cares for our souls and gives us life, even eternal life in Christ.
What a blessing!
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