God remains near to those who cry out to Him in their grief.
Then I said, “It is my grief, That the right hand of the Most High has changed.” (v.10) expresses the psalmist’s troubled heart, as he feels that God’s once-evident power and favor now appear distant. This psalm is attributed to Asaph, a Levite musician and seer who served during the reign of King David (circa 1010 - 970 BC). Although no specific geographical location is mentioned, the psalm reflects the setting of ancient Israel’s worship practices, often centering around the tabernacle in Jerusalem, a city with deep biblical and historical significance. By acknowledging his sorrow, the psalmist models an honest relationship with God—a willingness to bring feelings of doubt and disillusionment before Him.
In this verse, “the right hand of the Most High” (v.10) symbolizes God’s strength and salvation on behalf of His people. The psalmist uses this expression to convey the sense of God’s authority and capacity to deliver. However, the writer grieves that this mighty hand appears to have “changed,” indicating a perceived withdrawal of God’s blessings. This sense of despair echoes other laments in Scripture, yet it also foreshadows hope. The psalm later reminds its readers of God’s great deeds of the past and invites them to expect His deliverance once more—a theme we see repeated in the coming of Christ, who demonstrates the ultimate deliverance through His life, death, and resurrection (Romans 5:6-11).
When the psalmist voices “It is my grief” (v.10), it reveals an important transition from despair to a deeper faith. Though initially consumed by sorrow, he is accountable for these emotions, addressing them to a God he inherently trusts. Like many examples throughout the Psalms, this candid approach to prayer becomes a transformative act that leads the believer from turmoil into renewed confidence in God’s character. This transformation resonates with believers today, reminding us that even when situations seem dire, God remains faithful, ready to extend His strong right hand of help.
Psalms 77:10 meaning
Then I said, “It is my grief, That the right hand of the Most High has changed.” (v.10) expresses the psalmist’s troubled heart, as he feels that God’s once-evident power and favor now appear distant. This psalm is attributed to Asaph, a Levite musician and seer who served during the reign of King David (circa 1010 - 970 BC). Although no specific geographical location is mentioned, the psalm reflects the setting of ancient Israel’s worship practices, often centering around the tabernacle in Jerusalem, a city with deep biblical and historical significance. By acknowledging his sorrow, the psalmist models an honest relationship with God—a willingness to bring feelings of doubt and disillusionment before Him.
In this verse, “the right hand of the Most High” (v.10) symbolizes God’s strength and salvation on behalf of His people. The psalmist uses this expression to convey the sense of God’s authority and capacity to deliver. However, the writer grieves that this mighty hand appears to have “changed,” indicating a perceived withdrawal of God’s blessings. This sense of despair echoes other laments in Scripture, yet it also foreshadows hope. The psalm later reminds its readers of God’s great deeds of the past and invites them to expect His deliverance once more—a theme we see repeated in the coming of Christ, who demonstrates the ultimate deliverance through His life, death, and resurrection (Romans 5:6-11).
When the psalmist voices “It is my grief” (v.10), it reveals an important transition from despair to a deeper faith. Though initially consumed by sorrow, he is accountable for these emotions, addressing them to a God he inherently trusts. Like many examples throughout the Psalms, this candid approach to prayer becomes a transformative act that leads the believer from turmoil into renewed confidence in God’s character. This transformation resonates with believers today, reminding us that even when situations seem dire, God remains faithful, ready to extend His strong right hand of help.