Bible Verse Meaning: Psalms 78:20

Psalms 78:20: "Behold, he smote the rock, that the waters gushed out, and the streams overflowed. Can he give bread also? Can he provide flesh for his people?"

Summary of Meaning

This verse is part of a larger context where the psalmist recounts the history of Israel, particularly their complaints and the miraculous provisions God made for them in the wilderness. This specific verse reflects a moment of doubt from the Israelites questioning God's ability to provide for their needs.

Insights from Commentaries

• Matthew Henry: Henry explains that the Israelites had witnessed miraculous events, such as water flowing from the rock, yet still doubted God's ability to provide sustenance. He highlights the inconsistency of the people's faith and their unwillingness to trust in God's previous acts of provision.
• Albert Barnes: Barnes notes that this verse emphasizes the challenge of believing God for future needs despite past deliverance. He encourages readers to remember God's provision as a foundation for faith in current and future trials.
• Adam Clarke: Clarke provides a detailed examination of the nature of the Israelites' doubts. He contrasts their miraculous experiences with their frustrating skepticism, arguing that humans often falter in faith when faced with new challenges, despite previous assurances from God.

Connections to Related Bible Verses

Psalms 78:20 can be cross-referenced with several key Biblical texts to deepen understanding:

• Exodus 17:6: "Behold, I will stand before you there upon the rock in Horeb; and you shall strike the rock, and there shall come water out of it, that the people may drink." This verse illustrates God's provision through miraculous means.
• Numbers 11:4-6: "And the mixed multitude that was among them fell a-lusting; and the children of Israel also wept again, and said, Who shall give us flesh to eat?" This reflects the ongoing complaint about food, paralleling the doubt expressed in Psalms 78:20.
• John 6:31-35: "Our fathers did eat manna in the desert; as it is written, He gave them bread from heaven to eat." Jesus refers back to God’s provision in the wilderness, bridging the Old Testament narrative with New Testament faith.
• Philippians 4:19: "But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus." This reassures believers of God's continued provision. It connects to the theme of trusting God for future needs.
• Matthew 6:11: "Give us this day our daily bread." This echoes the prayerful acknowledgment of reliance on God's provision, reminiscent of the Israelites questioning His ability to provide bread.
• 1 Corinthians 10:4: "And did all drink the same spiritual drink; for they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them: and that Rock was Christ." This presents Jesus as the ultimate provider, linking the Old Testament events to New Testament revelation.
• Hebrews 3:7-9: "Wherefore (as the Holy Ghost saith, To day if ye will hear his voice, Harden not your hearts, as in the provocation, in the day of temptation in the wilderness." This is a direct reference to the Israelites' doubts and a call for faith.

Understanding Through Cross-Referencing

By utilizing Tools for Bible cross-referencing, readers can draw parallels and contextual insights from various Bible verse connections. Such comparative Bible verse analysis reveals thematic consistencies throughout Scripture.

Patterns and Themes

The doubts expressed in Psalms highlight a recurring theme of Israel's struggle with faith in the face of adversity and their need for constant reminders of God's power and provision.

Additionally, the inter-Biblical dialogue between these verses encourages believers to consider their own lives' parallels to the historical context of the Israelites, fostering a deeper understanding of divine provision.

Conclusion

In reflecting on Psalms 78:20, it becomes evident that faith is a multidimensional journey characterized by moments of doubt and divine assurance. By examining related verses through a biblical concordance, one can foster a comprehensive understanding of this crucial aspect of faith in God’s provision.