Psalm 78:1-33
Q.1. Why did Asaph write this song? From where did he get his material? For what purpose was the Law given? How was it applied? – (Ps.78:1-8)
Asaph was one of the Levites commissioned by King David to write spiritual songs to music (c.f. 1 Chron.25:1-2). In this Psalm, Asaph’s burden was to document some of the lessons of Israel’s past, for the next generation (Ps.78:3-5). This was a lofty goal because, as Hegel (1770-1831) observed – ‘What we learn from history is that we learn nothing from history’! His hope was – 6 that the generation to come might know, even the children yet to be born, that they may arise and tell them to their children, 7 that they should put their confidence in God and not forget the works of God but keep His commandments (Ps.78:6-7). Asaph sought to bring to light the experiences of Israel in their relationship with God so His people might observe the law and teach it to succeeding generations (Ps.78:1-4). He sought to save his children from making the mistakes of the past (Ps.78:8).
Q.2. Why did Ephraim’s archers turn back? How good was God to Israel? What pattern did Israel follow? How did God intervene? – (Ps.78:9-33)
The Lord had powerfully delivered Israel from slavery in Egypt, miraculously led the nation, and provided for her every need (Ps.78:11-16). However, the tribe of Ephraim had been defeated in battle because – 10 They did not keep the covenant of God and refused to walk in His law; 11 They forgot His deeds and His miracles that He had shown them (Ps.78:10-11). Asaph traced the history of Israel. It is a shameful story of fickleness and infidelity (Ps.78:17-20). God’s wrath was kindled against them time and time again – because they did not believe in God and did not trust in His salvation (Ps.78:22). However, God in love continued to provide for and protect His people as He sought to reconnect with each new generation. Asaph recalled God’s provision of rain, manna, and quails as well as the retribution for the complaints and unbelief of the people (Ps.78:23-31). Despite God’s goodness to them, the people still sinned because of their unbelief. They ended their lives in the wilderness in frustration (Ps.78:32-33). Asaph wanted the worshipers to remember the pattern of unbelief, so it would be avoided by future generations.