Psalms 78:12
Marvellous things did he in the sight of their fathers, in the land of Egypt, in the field of Zoan.
Psalms 78:12
The psalmist recalls “marvellous things” God did in the sight of their fathers in Egypt and Zoan (the stronghold of Pharaoh). This verse emphasizes public, witnessed miracles: plagues, the Passover, and the crossing of the Red Sea are not private experiences but communal memory. The setting within Egypt and Zoan marks God’s intervention in the most politically and militarily tense contexts—demonstrating His sovereignty over nations. The word “marvellous” (wonderful, extraordinary) signals that what God did was beyond ordinary human capability, inviting awe and trust. The repetition of these acts in the psalm heightens the moral effect: how could a people forget such deeds? Yet forgetfulness persists, which sets the stage for the subsequent verses about stubbornness and rebellion.
This verse foregrounds God as a God of intervention, salvation, and deliverance on a grand, cosmic scale. It ties Israel’s identity to God’s deeds in history and shows that divine action is the basis for faith. Theologically, it also points to the continuity between Old Testament acts of salvation and the New Testament revelation of Jesus as the fullness of God’s works for humanity’s redemption.
As you reflect on God’s past acts, consider how His past faithfulness informs present fear and doubt. Create a family or personal practice of recounting miracles—big and small—so faith remains robust under pressure. When trials come, you can say, “God has acted before; He can act again.” This builds courage to step into uncertain situations with ethical clarity and hope.
Cross-References: Exodus 7-14; Psalm 77:11-14; Psalm 105:5; Deuteronomy 6:10-12