Psalms 78:35

And they remembered that God was their rock, and the high God their redeemer.

Psalms 78:35 (KJV)

Context

Psalm 78 is a historical psalm attributed to Asaph, one of David’s chief musicians. It recounts Israel’s repeated rebellion and forgetfulness of God’s mighty works, while also highlighting God’s faithfulness and mercy. The verses just before this one describe how God allowed affliction to come upon Israel to turn them back to Him. In the middle of that discipline, the people remembered who God truly is.

Meaning

The verse calls God “their rock.” Throughout Scripture, a rock represents strength, stability, and a place of refuge. God is a firm foundation for His people, unchanging and reliable. The verse also calls Him “the high God their redeemer.” The Hebrew word for redeemer is “go’el,” which refers to a close relative who has the right and duty to rescue a family member in distress. God acted as Israel’s redeemer by delivering them from slavery in Egypt, guiding them through the wilderness, and leading them to the Promised Land.

Biblical connections

This remembrance echoes warnings from Deuteronomy 32:15 and 32:18, where Israel is described as forsaking the Rock of their salvation and forgetting the God who gave them birth. The same chapter declares that there is no rock like our God (Deuteronomy 32:31). These connections show that remembering God as Rock and Redeemer is a central part of faithful covenant life.

Application

We can apply this verse by deliberately recalling God’s past faithfulness in our own lives. Reflecting on His provision, guidance, and deliverance helps us stay grounded in faith, especially during hard times. Trials can serve as reminders to return to Him, just as affliction refreshed Israel’s memory. Trusting God as our Rock and Redeemer means depending on Him for security and salvation, not on our own strength.

• Remember specific times when God provided or rescued you.

• When facing difficulty, ask God to renew your trust in Him as your firm foundation.

• Thank God for being both your protector and your deliverer.

Reflection

God remains steadfast and faithful even when we forget Him. His discipline is not rejection but a call to remember. Through Jesus Christ, we see the fullest expression of God as our Redeemer, offering hope and salvation. Remembering His faithfulness brings comfort, peace, and confidence in our relationship with Him.