Psalms 105:34
He spake, and the locusts came: and catterpillers, and that without number, Psalms 105:34 (KJV)
Context: To better understand this verse, let’s first consider the context of the entire psalm. Psalm 105 is a song of praise and thanksgiving to God for His faithfulness to His people, the Israelites, throughout their history. The psalmist recounts God’s acts of deliverance, provision, and guidance, highlighting various episodes from the time of Abraham to the Israelites’ entry into the Promised Land.
Historical Background: The specific episode of locusts refers to the period of the Israelites’ oppression in Egypt, prior to the Exodus. During this time God sent various plagues upon the Egyptians to secure the release of the Israelites. One of these plagues was the plague of locusts (Exodus 10:1‑20). According to Exodus, God commanded Moses to stretch out his hand over Egypt, and then locusts came in swarms, covering the land and devouring the crops, causing widespread devastation.
God’s Power and Control: The Exodus account emphasizes God’s sovereignty and power over nature. When God spoke, the locusts came. This highlights that God’s word has authority and can command the elements of creation, revealing His ability to control and use natural phenomena to accomplish His purposes.
Symbolism: The mention of locusts and caterpillars “without number” underscores the magnitude and intensity of the plague. The imagery of the locusts swarming and devouring everything in their path represents the severity of God’s judgment and His ability to bring about drastic consequences for disobedience.
God’s Purpose: The purpose of sending the plagues upon Egypt was not only to secure the Israelites’ freedom but also to demonstrate His power and establish His authority over the false gods of Egypt. Each plague served as a direct challenge to the Egyptian deities, showing their powerlessness compared with the one true God of Israel.
Application: While this episode specifically relates to a historical event, it holds broader lessons for us today. It reminds us of God’s sovereignty and control over all things, including the natural world. It also serves as a reminder of the consequences of disobedience and the importance of aligning our lives with God’s will.
