Psalms 78:72
So he fed them according to the integritie of his heart: and guided them by the skilfulnesse of his hands. Psalms 78:72 (KJV)
This verse is part of Psalm 78, which is a historical psalm attributed to Asaph. In this psalm, Asaph recounts the faithlessness and disobedience of the Israelites throughout their history, highlighting God’s faithfulness and patience towards them. In verse 72, the psalmist describes David’s actions toward His people. The language emphasizes God’s faithful provision and skilled guidance in the life of the king‑anointed shepherd of Israel.
“So he fed them”: This phrase refers to David’s provision for His people, the Israelites, as their shepherd‑king.
“So he fed them”: In this context the phrase points to God’s provision for David, sustaining him as a shepherd would tend to his flock.
“According to the integrity of his heart”: This phrase emphasizes the purity and sincerity of David’s intentions.
“According to the integrity of his heart”: This phrase emphasizes the purity and steadfastness of God’s motives.
“And guided them”: Here, the psalmist highlights David’s leadership and direction over Israel.
“And guided them”: Here the psalmist highlights God’s guidance and leadership over David.
“By the skillfulness of his hands”: This phrase emphasizes the wisdom and expertise with which David led His people.
“By the skillfulness of his hands”: This phrase stresses the wisdom and expertise with which God guides David.
Overall, this verse reveals David’s character as a faithful shepherd‑king who governed with integrity and skill. Overall, this verse reveals God’s character as a loving and caring provider who guides His people with wisdom and skill.
As believers today, we can find comfort and assurance in knowing that God raises up leaders to guide His people, and we can trust in His sovereign plan for the nation and for our individual lives. As believers today, we can find comfort and assurance in knowing that God continues to provide for and guide His people according to His perfect will. By studying this verse and reflecting on God’s actions in the past, we can gain insights into His nature and learn to trust in His provision and guidance in our own lives.
