Psalms 77:11

KJV

¶ I will remember the works of the LORD: surely I will remember thy wonders of old.

KJV (with Strong's)

I will remember {H2142}{H8799)}{H8675)}{H2142}{H8686)} the works {H4611} of the LORD {H3050}: surely I will remember {H2142}{H8799)} thy wonders {H6382} of old {H6924}.

Complete Jewish Bible

So I will remind myself of Yah's doings; yes, I will remember your wonders of old.

Berean Standard Bible

I will remember the works of the LORD; yes, I will remember Your wonders of old.

American Standard Version

I will make mention of the deeds of Jehovah; For I will remember thy wonders of old.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Psalms 77:11 serves as the pivotal turning point in Asaph's deeply personal lament, marking a conscious and resolute shift from overwhelming despair and questioning to a renewed posture of hope and trust. Having wrestled intensely with his suffering and doubts concerning God's faithfulness and apparent absence, the psalmist deliberately chooses to anchor his soul in the unchanging reality of God's historical acts of power and grace, intentionally recalling the Lord's mighty deeds and ancient wonders as a potent antidote to his present spiritual anguish.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** The psalm begins with Asaph's profound anguish, expressed through fervent cries to God, sleepless nights, and a soul that refuses comfort ([Psalms 77:1-4](/psalms/77-1 "Psalm 77:1-4 - Asaph's Distress")). He grapples with existential questions about God's forgotten mercy and the failure of His promises, a common theme in psalms of lament ([Psalms 77:7-9](/psalms/77-7 "Psalm 77:7-9 - Questions of God's Faithfulness")). Verse 10 marks a crucial transition, where the psalmist declares, "This is my infirmity: but I will remember the years of the right hand of the Most High." This declaration sets the stage for verse 11, solidifying his resolve to actively recall God's past interventions. The remainder of the psalm ([Psalms 77:12-20](/psalms/77-12 "Psalm 77:12-20 - God's Mighty Acts Remembered")) then unfolds as a powerful meditation on God's historical acts of redemption, particularly the Exodus, demonstrating how this intentional remembrance transforms despair into renewed faith and praise.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The psalmist, Asaph, was a prominent Levitical musician and seer, often associated with the prophetic tradition within Israel's worship. His laments, like this one, reflect the deep spiritual struggles common to individuals and the nation of Israel when facing hardship, exile, or perceived divine silence. In ancient Israel, the recounting of God's historical acts of deliverance—such as the [Exodus from Egypt](/exodus/12 "Exodus 12 - The Passover and Exodus") and the [parting of the Red Sea](/exodus/14 "Exodus 14 - The Parting of the Red Sea")—was a central component of their national identity and covenant relationship with Yahweh. This collective memory served as a foundational source of hope and a reminder of God's unchanging character and commitment to His people, even when current circumstances seemed to contradict His promises. The act of "remembering" (Hebrew: _zakhar_) was not merely a mental exercise but a spiritual discipline, involving meditation, confession, and a renewed commitment to the covenant.
* **Key Themes:** Psalms 77:11 powerfully articulates several core theological themes. Firstly, it underscores the spiritual discipline of **intentional remembrance**, emphasizing a conscious and volitional act of recalling God's past interventions and character, which serves as a vital counter to present despair and spiritual amnesia. Secondly, by focusing on "wonders of old," the verse affirms **God's unchanging character** and faithfulness, asserting that His power, love, and commitment are consistent throughout history, providing an anchor for faith in times of uncertainty, as seen in the immutability declared in [Malachi 3:6](/malachi/3-6 "Malachi 3:6 - God's Immutability"). Thirdly, this act of remembrance is presented as a profound **source of hope and comfort**, reminding the believer that God remains sovereign and actively involved in human affairs, even when circumstances suggest otherwise, much like the psalmist found solace by calling to mind God's past deliverances ([Psalms 42:5](/psalms/42-5 "Psalm 42:5 - Hope in God Amidst Despair")). Finally, the psalmist's journey exemplifies how focusing on God's historical faithfulness provides a powerful means for **overcoming doubt and despair**, transforming a heart overwhelmed by sorrow into one renewed with trust and spiritual fortitude.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Remember (Hebrew, _zakhar'_):** This verb signifies more than a passive mental recall; it implies an active, intentional, and often volitional engagement with the past. In a biblical context, _zakhar_ often carries the nuance of bringing something to mind with the purpose of acting upon it, or allowing it to shape one's present reality. Here, it is a deliberate spiritual discipline, a conscious choice to counteract despair by focusing on God's character and deeds.
* **Works (Hebrew, _ma'aseh'_):** This term refers to God's deeds, accomplishments, and creative acts. It encompasses the full scope of His activity, from the grand acts of creation and providence to His specific interventions in human history. It speaks to the tangible evidence of God's power, wisdom, and active involvement in the world.
* **Wonders (Hebrew, _pele'_):** This word denotes extraordinary, miraculous, or astonishing acts that transcend human capability and demonstrate God's unique, supernatural power. Often associated with the signs and miracles performed during the Exodus, _pele'_ points to events that evoke awe and reveal God's incomparable nature. The phrase "wonders of old" (_pele' miqqedem_) specifically emphasizes the ancient, foundational acts of God that established His covenant relationship with Israel and revealed His redemptive character.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"I will remember the works of the LORD":** This opening clause marks a decisive volitional shift for the psalmist. The "I will" (אֶזְכֹּר, _'ezkor_) is a strong declaration of intent, indicating a deliberate choice to engage in the spiritual discipline of recalling God's past actions. "The works of the LORD" (_ma'aseh YHWH_) refers to the totality of God's mighty deeds throughout history, encompassing His creative power, His providential care, and His specific interventions on behalf of His people, particularly those acts that demonstrate His covenant faithfulness. This is a conscious turning away from self-pity and doubt towards the objective reality of God's historical faithfulness.
* **"surely I will remember thy wonders of old.":** This second clause functions as a powerful reinforcement and intensification of the first, employing synonymous parallelism. The addition of "surely" (כִּי, _ki_, often translated as "for" or "indeed") emphasizes the certainty and resolve of the psalmist's commitment. "Thy wonders of old" (_pele' miqqedem_) hones in on the miraculous, awe-inspiring, and foundational acts of God from ancient times, such as the Exodus and the parting of the Red Sea. These are the extraordinary demonstrations of God's unique power and His unwavering commitment to His covenant people, providing an unshakeable foundation for faith even when present circumstances are dire.

#### Literary Devices
Psalms 77:11 is rich with literary artistry that amplifies its theological message. The most prominent device is **Repetition**, with the phrase "I will remember" appearing twice, emphasizing the psalmist's deliberate and resolute choice to recall God's past actions. This repetition underscores the volitional nature of faith in the face of despair. Closely related is **Synonymous Parallelism**, where the second clause, "surely I will remember thy wonders of old," echoes and intensifies the first, "I will remember the works of the LORD." While "works" refers to God's general activity, "wonders" specifically highlights His miraculous, awe-inspiring deeds, creating a deepening of focus. This verse also represents a significant **Thematic Shift** within the psalm, moving from the profound lament and questioning of God's faithfulness in the preceding verses to a determined posture of hope and trust rooted in divine history. The use of **First-Person Volitional Language** ("I will remember") highlights the psalmist's active agency in his spiritual journey, demonstrating that overcoming doubt is not merely passive waiting but an intentional engagement with God's revealed character.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Psalms 77:11 provides a profound theological insight into the nature of faith and the discipline required to sustain it amidst suffering. It teaches that faith is not merely an emotional state but an active choice to ground oneself in the objective reality of God's historical faithfulness. By intentionally recalling God's "works" and "wonders," the psalmist models a spiritual strategy for overcoming doubt and despair. This act of remembrance serves as a powerful antidote to present anxieties, reminding us that the God who acted mightily in the past remains the same God today, capable of intervening and sustaining His people. It transforms a subjective experience of suffering into an objective affirmation of God's unchanging character and redemptive purpose. This principle is foundational for cultivating resilience and hope in the Christian life, demonstrating that our hope is not based on fleeting feelings but on the steadfast character of God revealed through His historical actions.

* [Deuteronomy 8:2](/deuteronomy/8-2 "Deuteronomy 8:2 - Remembering God's Leading")
* [Hebrews 13:8](/hebrews/13-8 "Hebrews 13:8 - Jesus Christ is the Same")
* [1 Corinthians 10:11](/1_corinthians/10-11 "1 Corinthians 10:11 - Examples for Our Admonition")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Psalms 77:11 offers a timeless and practical spiritual discipline for believers navigating seasons of doubt, anxiety, or perceived divine silence. In a world characterized by rapid change and often overwhelming challenges, it is easy for our focus to drift from God's steadfast character to our immediate circumstances. This verse calls us to an intentional act of spiritual recollection: to deliberately review the panorama of God's faithfulness, both in the grand narrative of biblical history and in the intimate details of our personal lives. This is not an exercise in nostalgia, but a dynamic act of faith that re-anchors our souls in the immutable truth of who God is and what He has done. By meditating on His "works" and "wonders," we cultivate a deeper trust that transcends our present feelings, allowing God's past faithfulness to illuminate our present struggles and shape our future hope. It is a powerful reminder that our hope is not in our ability to endure, but in His unchanging nature and His proven track record of redemption.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What specific "works of the LORD" from biblical history do you find most encouraging in times of personal struggle?**
* **How can you more intentionally practice "remembering thy wonders of old" in your daily life, perhaps through journaling, prayer, or specific Scripture meditation?**
* **What personal "wonders" or acts of God's faithfulness in your own life can you recall and give thanks for, especially when doubt creeps in?**
* **How does remembering God's past actions help to reframe your current challenges or anxieties?**

### FAQ
**Why is "remembering" so important in the Bible, and specifically in this psalm?**

Answer: In the biblical context, "remembering" (Hebrew: _zakhar_) is far more than a passive mental exercise; it is an active, volitional, and often covenantal act. It involves bringing God's past deeds and commands to mind with the intention of allowing them to shape one's present and future actions, fostering obedience, gratitude, and trust. In Psalms 77, Asaph's remembering is crucial because it represents a deliberate turning point from despair and questioning God's faithfulness ([Psalms 77:7-9](/psalms/77-7 "Psalm 77:7-9 - Asaph's Despair")) to actively recalling His mighty acts. This intentional recollection serves as an anchor for his soul, reminding him of God's unchanging character and power, which ultimately transforms his lament into a renewed sense of hope and worship, as seen in the latter part of the psalm which recounts God's powerful deliverance of Israel ([Psalms 77:14-20](/psalms/77-14 "Psalm 77:14-20 - God's Redeeming Power")). It's a spiritual discipline that combats spiritual amnesia and grounds faith in the objective reality of God's historical interventions.

**How does Psalms 77:11 relate to the broader theme of God's faithfulness in the Old Testament?**

Answer: Psalms 77:11 is deeply intertwined with the overarching Old Testament theme of God's unwavering faithfulness, particularly as demonstrated through His covenant relationship with Israel. The "works of the LORD" and "wonders of old" primarily refer to the foundational acts of redemption, such as the [Exodus](/exodus/12 "Exodus 12 - The Deliverance from Egypt"), the giving of the Law at Sinai ([Exodus 19](/exodus/19 "Exodus 19 - The Giving of the Law")), and His consistent provision in the wilderness. These events served as constant reminders of God's covenant promises and His commitment to His people, even when they were unfaithful. Prophets and psalmists frequently called Israel to "remember" these acts as a basis for repentance, renewed trust, and hope for future deliverance ([Deuteronomy 8:2](/deuteronomy/8-2 "Deuteronomy 8:2 - Remembering God's Provision")). This verse, therefore, encapsulates the very essence of Old Testament theology: God is faithful because He has proven Himself faithful through His mighty deeds throughout history, providing a secure foundation for trust in His ongoing care and future redemptive acts.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Psalms 77:11 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The "works of the LORD" and "wonders of old" that Asaph resolved to remember were but foreshadowings of God's greatest work and most astonishing wonder: the incarnation, life, death, and resurrection of His Son. Jesus Himself is the supreme demonstration of God's power, love, and faithfulness, the very [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"). In His ministry, Jesus performed "works" and "wonders" that eclipsed all previous divine interventions, healing the sick, casting out demons, and raising the dead, revealing the kingdom of God among us ([Matthew 11:4-5](/matthew/11-4 "Matthew 11:4-5 - The Works of Christ")). His crucifixion, the ultimate act of self-giving love, and His glorious resurrection, the ultimate triumph over sin and death, constitute the definitive "wonders" of God's redemptive plan, providing the bedrock for our faith and hope ([1 Corinthians 15:3-4](/1_corinthians/15-3 "1 Corinthians 15:3-4 - The Gospel of Christ's Death and Resurrection")). When we "remember" God's works today, we look back not just to the Exodus, but supremely to the finished work of Christ on the cross, through whom we receive forgiveness, new life, and the promise of eternal glory ([Ephesians 1:7](/ephesians/1-7 "Ephesians 1:7 - Redemption Through His Blood")). He is the [same yesterday, today, and forever](/hebrews/13-8 "Hebrews 13:8 - Jesus Christ is the Same"), the living embodiment of God's unchanging faithfulness, enabling us to face our present trials with an unshakeable hope rooted in His completed work and promised return.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Psalms 143:5

I remember the days of old; I meditate on all thy works; I muse on the work of thy hands.

Psalms 105:5

Remember his marvellous works that he hath done; his wonders, and the judgments of his mouth;

1 Chronicles 16:12

Remember his marvellous works that he hath done, his wonders, and the judgments of his mouth;

Psalms 28:5

Because they regard not the works of the LORD, nor the operation of his hands, he shall destroy them, and not build them up.

Isaiah 5:12

And the harp, and the viol, the tabret, and pipe, and wine, are in their feasts: but they regard not the work of the LORD, neither consider the operation of his hands.

Psalms 77:10

And I said, This [is] my infirmity: [but I will remember] the years of the right hand of the most High.

Psalms 111:4

He hath made his wonderful works to be remembered: the LORD [is] gracious and full of compassion.