of believers, and, as such, are to be thought upon by us with sorrow and shame. When, unbelief is
working in us, we must thus suppress its risings.
Verses 11–20
The remembrance of the works of God, will be a powerful remedy against distrust of his promise
and goodness; for he is God, and changes not. God's way is in the sanctuary. We are sure that God
is holy in all his works. God's ways are like the deep waters, which cannot be fathomed; like the
way of a ship, which cannot be tracked. God brought Israel out of Egypt. This was typical of the
great redemption to be wrought out in the fulness of time, both by price and power. If we have
harboured doubtful thoughts, we should, without delay, turn our minds to meditate on that God,
who spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, that with him, he might freely give
us all things.
Chapter 78
Chapter Outline
Attention called for. (1–8)
The history of Israel. (9–39)
Their settlement in Canaan. (40–55)
The mercies of God to Israel contrasted with (56–72)
their ingratitude.Verses 1–8
These are called dark and deep sayings, because they are carefully to be looked into. The law
of God was given with a particular charge to teach it diligently to their children, that the church
may abide for ever. Also, that the providences of God, both in mercy and in judgment, might
encourage them to conform to the will of God. The works of God much strengthen our resolution
to keep his commandments. Hypocrisy is the high road to apostacy; those that do not set their hearts
right, will not be stedfast with God. Many parents, by negligence and wickedness, become murderers
of their children. But young persons, though they are bound to submit in all things lawful, must
not obey sinful orders, or copy sinful examples.
Verses 9–39
Sin dispirits men, and takes away the heart. Forgetfulness of God's works is the cause of
disobedience to his laws. This narrative relates a struggle between God's goodness and man's
badness. The Lord hears all our murmurings and distrusts, and is much displeased. Those that will
not believe the power of God's mercy, shall feel the fire of his indignation. Those cannot be said