Their failure calls us to remember that God’s salvation is wholly trustworthy.
In this portion of Psalm 78, Asaph—a Levite who served as chief musician during King David’s reign around 1000 BC—laments the Israelites’ persistent unbelief when he says, “Because they did not believe in God And did not trust in His salvation” (v. 22). The Psalm as a whole recounts Israel’s journey from slavery in Egypt, shining a light on God’s powerful deliverance and miraculous provision, such as parting the Red Sea and supplying manna and water in the wilderness. Despite witnessing these mighty acts firsthand, the people repeatedly hardened their hearts toward the covenant and ignored God’s works, failing to believe in His capacity to save them.
The phrase “did not believe in God” indicates a deep-seated failure to trust the LORD’s mighty power, which had already been demonstrated through signs and wonders. It reveals Israel’s willingness to rely on their own temporary solutions or slip into fear, rather than rest in God’s faithful character. Meanwhile, “did not trust in His salvation” shows how they neglected to remember the very redemption story that brought them out of bondage. Their disregard for the LORD’s sustaining hand led them into disobedience and rebellion, missing out on the fullness of His blessings.
In the broader biblical context, this verse reminds believers to heed Israel’s example and cultivate a constant faith in God’s redeeming work. Heaven’s ultimate salvation is found in Jesus Christ, whose life, death, and resurrection secured eternal life for all who believe. Trusting in God’s salvation brings spiritual rest and a deep assurance that He will continue to guide and transform every step of the journey.
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Psalms 78:22 meaning
In this portion of Psalm 78, Asaph—a Levite who served as chief musician during King David’s reign around 1000 BC—laments the Israelites’ persistent unbelief when he says, “Because they did not believe in God And did not trust in His salvation” (v. 22). The Psalm as a whole recounts Israel’s journey from slavery in Egypt, shining a light on God’s powerful deliverance and miraculous provision, such as parting the Red Sea and supplying manna and water in the wilderness. Despite witnessing these mighty acts firsthand, the people repeatedly hardened their hearts toward the covenant and ignored God’s works, failing to believe in His capacity to save them.
The phrase “did not believe in God” indicates a deep-seated failure to trust the LORD’s mighty power, which had already been demonstrated through signs and wonders. It reveals Israel’s willingness to rely on their own temporary solutions or slip into fear, rather than rest in God’s faithful character. Meanwhile, “did not trust in His salvation” shows how they neglected to remember the very redemption story that brought them out of bondage. Their disregard for the LORD’s sustaining hand led them into disobedience and rebellion, missing out on the fullness of His blessings.
In the broader biblical context, this verse reminds believers to heed Israel’s example and cultivate a constant faith in God’s redeeming work. Heaven’s ultimate salvation is found in Jesus Christ, whose life, death, and resurrection secured eternal life for all who believe. Trusting in God’s salvation brings spiritual rest and a deep assurance that He will continue to guide and transform every step of the journey.