Remember the Works of The Lord: Psalm 77

Introduction: Psalm 77 reflects an emotive conversation between the psalmist and God, demonstrating a struggle between faith and doubt. The psalmist’s lament and his meditation on the works of God lead to a shift in perspective, a theological elevation. This exploration of Psalm 77 examines its key themes and the journey of the psalmist from despair to a deeper understanding of God’s power and faithfulness.

I. Initial Lamentation and Questions (Psalm 77:1-9)
The psalm opens with the psalmist expressing his distress and seeking the Lord. However, he feels forsaken and begins questioning God’s goodness and faithfulness in his life. These questions reflect a crisis of faith and are reminiscent of other biblical figures grappling with similar doubts, such as Job (Job 3:11-26), Habakkuk (Habakkuk 1:2-4), and others. This section culminates in the question, “Has God forgotten to be gracious?” indicating the psalmist’s deep despair.

II. Meditation and Reflection (Psalm 77:10-15)
In response to his despair, the psalmist chooses to reflect on the works of the Lord. He acknowledges God’s power, manifested in His mighty deeds and wonders. This reflection evokes several biblical narratives of God’s faithfulness and miracles, including His deliverance of the Israelites from Egypt (Exodus 14:13-31), His providence for His people in the wilderness (Exodus 16:1-36), and His promise to Abraham (Genesis 12:1-3).

III. Recognition of God’s Sovereign Power (Psalm 77:16-20)
The final section of the psalm shifts focus towards God’s sovereignty and power over nature. The psalmist uses vivid imagery to describe God’s control over the waters and the earth, reminiscent of the creation account (Genesis 1:1-31) and the Great Flood (Genesis 7:1-24). This realization of God’s absolute power serves as a turning point for the psalmist, leading him from despair into awe and reverence.

Conclusion: Psalm 77 therefore presents a profound theological elevation, where despair turns into the recognition of God’s mighty works and sovereign power. Through his lament and questioning, the psalmist moves from a place of doubt to a deeper understanding of God’s faithfulness. As such, Psalm 77 serves as a valuable lesson for believers today, encouraging us to seek God through our struggles and to remember His mighty works in times of doubt.

Cross-Reference Verses:

1. Job 3:11-26: Job curses the day of his birth and questions why he must suffer.
2. Habakkuk 1:2-4: Habakkuk cries out to God, questioning why He allows wickedness to go unpunished.
3. Exodus 14:13-31: The Israelites cross the Red Sea as God delivers them from the Egyptians.
4. Exodus 16:1-36: God provides manna and quail for the Israelites in the wilderness.
5. Genesis 12:1-3: God promises to bless Abraham and make him a great nation.
6. Genesis 1:1-31: The creation account demonstrates God’s sovereignty and power.
7. Genesis 7:1-24: God judges the wickedness of the world with a flood but preserves Noah and his family.