Psalms 78:11
And forgat his works, and his wonders that he had shewed them.
Psalms 78:11
This line continues the pattern: the people forget God’s works and wonders. “And forgat his works, and his wonders that he had shewed them” emphasizes a collective amnesia—God’s extraordinary acts (plagues in Egypt, parting of the sea, provision in the wilderness) fade from memory, especially when daily needs overshadow the miraculous past. In the ancient Near Eastern context, memory served as a civic and religious glue; forgetting God’s acts would destabilize identity and allegiance. The rhetorical strategy of the psalmist is to provoke recall: if they remembered, gratitude and obedience would follow. The sequence also highlights God’s patience and humility—He continues to reveal Himself even as His people forget and falter.
Memory of God’s wonders is not nostalgic; it’s the foundation for faith-filled action. The psalmist shows that God’s self-revelation in history is the basis for present trust. Forgetfulness becomes a spiritual danger that leads to unbelief and disobedience. Theologically, this underscores God’s initiative: He reveals Himself first, and human memory and response follow as gratitude and obedience. It also foreshadows how Jesus is the ultimate revelation of God’s works and wonders, inviting a re-centering of memory on Christ’s redemptive acts.
Practically, cultivate memory as spiritual discipline: keep a “God-story journal” of moments of deliverance, answered prayer, and provision. When fear or busyness threatens your faith, pause to recall specific wonders—jobs gained or lost, broken relationships mended, miraculous small mercies. Let those memories recalibrate present choices. In community, retell God’s deeds in worship and testimony to strengthen collective faith and counteract forgetfulness. This habit guards against cynicism and fosters grateful obedience.
Cross-References: Joshua 4:21-24; Psalm 9:1-2; Psalm 105:5; Hebrews 11:3