Psalm 77
Theme
The Comforting Memory of God's Redemptive Works
Outline
1-10, The Psalmist's Troubles and Doubts 11-20, He Comforts Himself with Meditation on God
Key Verse
(77:11) I will remember the works of the LORD; surely I will remember Your wonders of old. (77:1) I cried out to God with my voice—To God with my voice; and He gave ear to me.
Notes
Psalm 77 begins with the psalmist expressing a deep longing for God, structured in three-verse units. The first section (verses 1–3) highlights the psalmist's personal quest for God, followed by a reflection on God's past actions in verses 4–6. The psalmist then questions God's mercy in verses 7–9, transitioning back to personal remembrance in verses 10–12. The final three-verse section (13–15) shifts to direct praise of God, mirroring the initial seeking of God. The structure is marked by the use of "selah" and repeated phrases like "I muse," indicating a reflective tone. The psalm's latter part diverges from the earlier first-person perspective, focusing instead on God's actions, particularly in verses 15 and 20, which frame the concluding thoughts. These verses emphasize God's redemption and leadership, linking them to significant biblical events. The intervening verses connect themes of "waters" and "voice," creating a chiastic structure that enhances the psalm's thematic depth. The exposition of Psalm 77 will explore the themes of seeking God through remembrance and the significance of the past in shaping faith.