Psalm 78:56–72, June 24, 2025 (Tuesday)

“And David shepherded them with integrity of heart; with skillful hands he led them.” (Psalm 78:72)

The psalmist sings with a wide range of emotions. At times, the psalm echoes the sorrowful laments of the prophets; other times, it mourns over Israel’s continual sin and rebellion. Yet, this song ultimately ends with a resounding truth: God is still patient, still restoring, and still walking with His people.

This repetitive disobedience can be understood through psychological lenses such as conditioned behavior or repetition compulsion, and sometimes even as self-destructive behavior—a reflection of a heart that has lost trust in itself and acts out in harmful ways.

But in the face of such brokenness, the psalmist proclaims a God who still chooses to be present, to lead His people with skillful hands and an unwavering heart. Israel is like a restless child, crying out in the wrong direction, yet still held fast by a faithful Father.

This scene feels all too familiar to us. In our faith journey, there are moments when we regress—acting as though God is absent, even after seasons of deep intimacy with Him. We disappoint even ourselves.

Yet the psalm doesn't end in disappointment. It doesn’t dwell on the repetitive failures of humanity but rather lifts up the unchanging, steady faithfulness of God. That is the focus of the song.Unchanging is the Lord!May this simple confession echo deeply in your heart today.

Reflection

Recall a time when you experienced the unwavering love of God despite your failures. Give thanks for His unchanging nature.

Intercessory Prayer

• Please pray for Deaconess Jungja Park, who is feeling weak after her first round of chemotherapy. May she be strengthened and find full recovery.

• Please also pray for the successful sale of our Oakland campus. Yesterday, a church in Concord expressed interest in the property and requested a viewing. We’re meeting them at the church tomorrow at 4:30 PM.There are some homeless encampments near the entrance—mattresses and boxes—which we’ve arranged to have cleaned up in the morning. There’s a lot to manage behind the scenes, so your prayers and support are deeply appreciated.