NOTES for Psa 78:34-72

The Lord has no need of outward worship far removed from a conversion of the heart, yet He is gracious and merciful to all who turn to Him, even if they are not entirely sincere. It does not follow from this that mercy is granted in response to an outward appeal in time of need. No, the Lord has mercy out of His own mercy; His faithfulness to His word surpasses human devotion. People constantly stray from walking before Him, habitually cross themselves when thunder strikes, and when the thunder passes they once again immerse themselves in their accustomed bustle.

But He, knowing that people are constantly unfaithful to Him, continues faithfully to keep the word He has given us and protects us from misfortune. Even when He permits punishments to fall upon sinners and apostates, they are not an end in themselves but a forced measure, a last resort that must be used so that frightened, thoughtless children will no longer try to frolic at the edge of the abyss. It often helps...