Psalms 78:1

“Give ear, O my people, to my law: incline your ears to the words of my mouth.”

Psalm 78:1 (KJV) says: Give ear, O my people, to my law: incline your ears to the words of my mouth.

Context: Psalm 78 is a lengthy psalm attributed to Asaph, one of the chief musicians in the time of David and Solomon. This psalm serves as a reminder of God’s faithfulness and the Israelites’ unfaithfulness throughout their history. It recounts the wonders God performed in their midst and the consequences of their disobedience. The psalmist encourages the people to listen and learn from their past, embracing God’s law and teachings.

Giving ear to God’s law: The psalmist begins by urging the people of God to give ear to His law. This phrase implies attentive listening and obedience. The “law” here refers to the instructions, commandments, and teachings given by God to His people. It includes both the written law found in the Torah (the first five books of the Old Testament) and the broader principles and precepts communicated by God through His prophets and leaders.

Incline your ears: The psalmist uses the phrase “incline your ears” to emphasize the need for focused attention and receptivity. It conveys the idea of bending or turning one’s ear toward something, indicating a deliberate posture of listening and understanding. In this case, the psalmist calls upon the people to give their undivided attention to the words of God’s mouth.

Importance of hearing God’s words: The psalmist’s exhortation to listen to the words of God’s mouth highlights the significance of God’s revelation and communication to His people. God’s words are a source of wisdom, guidance, and divine instruction. By listening attentively to God’s words, the people of Israel would understand their history, their identity as God’s chosen people, and their obligations to live in accordance with His commandments.

Application for today: As followers of God today, the principles conveyed in Psalm 78:1 are still relevant. We are called to listen to God’s law and incline our ears to His teachings. This involves studying and meditating on the Scriptures, seeking to understand God’s will and ways. By attentively listening to God’s words, we can gain insight into His character, discern His purposes, and align our lives with His divine plan.

In conclusion, Psalm 78:1 urges God’s people to give ear to His law and incline their ears to the words of His mouth. It emphasises the importance of attentive listening, understanding, and obedience to God’s teachings. By doing so, we can learn from the past, grow in wisdom, and walk in alignment with God’s purposes for our lives.