Psalm 78:12-25 NKJV
12 Marvelous things He did in the sight of their fathers,
In the land of Egypt, in the field of Zoan.
13 He divided the sea and caused them to pass through;
And He made the waters stand up like a heap.
14 In the daytime also He led them with the cloud,
And all the night with a light of fire.
15 He split the rocks in the wilderness,
And gave them drink in abundance like the depths.
16 He also brought streams out of the rock,
And caused waters to run down like rivers.
17 But they sinned even more against Him
By rebelling against the Most High in the wilderness.
18 And they tested God in their heart
By asking for the food of their fancy.
19 Yes, they spoke against God:
They said, “Can God prepare a table in the wilderness?
20 Behold, He struck the rock,
So that the waters gushed out,
And the streams overflowed.
Can He give bread also?
Can He provide meat for His people?”
21 Therefore the Lord heard this and was furious;
So a fire was kindled against Jacob,
And anger also came up against Israel,
22 Because they did not believe in God,
And did not trust in His salvation.
23 Yet He had commanded the clouds above,
And opened the doors of heaven,
24 Had rained down manna on them to eat,
And given them of the bread of heaven.
25 Men ate angels’ food;
He sent them food to the full.
“Marvelous things He did in the sight of their fathers, in the land of Egypt, in the field of Zoan. He divided the sea and caused them to pass through; and He made the waters stand up like a heap. In the daytime also He led them with the cloud, and all the night with a light of fire.”
Psalm 78 recounts the mighty deeds of God, reminding His people of His steadfast faithfulness, even in the midst of their rebellion. The psalmist draws our attention to the wonders God performed to deliver Israel, leading them out of bondage and sustaining them in the wilderness. From the parting of the sea to the pillar of cloud and fire, God’s power and mercy were displayed time and again.
Yet, despite witnessing His miraculous care, the hearts of the people often wavered. They doubted His provision, testing Him in the wilderness. How quickly they forgot the One who brought water from the rock and rained down manna from heaven! This divine bread, called “angels’ food,” was not just sustenance but a testament to God’s gracious provision for His chosen people.
As we reflect on this passage, we see parallels in our own lives. How often do we, too, forget God’s faithfulness? When challenges arise, we may question His care, overlooking the countless ways He has provided for us in the past. Like Israel, we may demand signs or grow impatient, as if God’s grace were insufficient for today’s needs.
Psalm 78 reminds us to remember and trust. God has not changed. The same Lord who provided manna in the wilderness has given us the Bread of Life—Jesus Christ. In Him, we find not only our daily provision but eternal life. When doubts creep in, let us turn to His Word, recalling His works and promises.
Take heart in knowing that God’s faithfulness endures through every trial. Trust Him to provide for your needs today, just as He has done in the past. His grace is sufficient; His mercies are new every morning. Let us pray: Gracious Lord, thank You for Your steadfast faithfulness and abundant provision. Help us to trust in Your care and remember Your mighty works, that we may walk by faith and not by sight. In Jesus’ name, Amen.