Psalms 78:20
Behold, he smote the rocke, that the waters gushed out, & the streames ouerflowed; can he giue bread also? can he prouide flesh for his people? Psalms 78:20 (KJV)
Psalm 78 is a historical psalm that recounts the story of Israel, emphasizing God’s faithfulness and Israel’s repeated disobedience. The psalmist looks back on the Exodus and the wilderness wanderings, highlighting both the miraculous provision of God and the people’s lack of trust.
Smoting the rock
The verse refers to the event recorded in Exodus 17:1‑7. While journeying in the desert, the Israelites complained of thirst. God instructed Moses to strike the rock at Horeb, and when he obeyed, water gushed out to satisfy the people’s need. This act demonstrated God’s power to provide life‑giving water from an inanimate stone.
Lack of faith
The psalmist’s rhetorical question, “Can he give bread also? Can he provide flesh for his people?” reflects the Israelites’ doubt after witnessing the water miracle. Later verses (Psalm 78:24‑25) note that God not only brought water from the rock but also supplied meat in abundance. The contrast underscores a persistent tendency to question God’s continued care even after clear evidence of His provision.
Testing God
The Israelites’ complaints functioned as a test of God’s patience and power. Their repeated grumbling revealed a pattern of testing the Almighty’s willingness to meet their needs, a pattern that recurred throughout their desert journey.
Spiritual lessons
This passage serves as a reminder that, despite witnessing God’s miracles, the people of Israel often failed to trust Him fully. Believers today are likewise called to trust God’s faithfulness and provision, both physical and spiritual, especially in times of uncertainty and doubt.
Jesus Christ as the Rock
The rock struck at Horeb is seen in the New Testament as a foreshadowing of Christ. Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 10:4 that the rock was Christ, the source of living water and the bread of life. Jesus continues the work of providing spiritual sustenance and sustaining believers today.
