Psalms 78:34

“They did not destroy the nations, etc.] Here begins an account of their sins and provocations, after they were settled in the land of Canaan. They did not destroy the inhabitants of the land, of the seven nations; whose land was given to them as an inheritance, and of which the Canaanites were dispossessed for their sins, and to be destroyed. Concerning whom the Lord commanded them; that they should destroy them; the command is in (<050701>Deuteronomy 7:1,2). God’s commands are to be obeyed; they are neither to be added to, nor diminished from; his commands are transgressed and violated by sins of omission or commission; the Israelites might plead mercy, but this was no excuse to an express…”

“When he slew them - When he came forth in his wrath and cut them down by the plague, by fiery serpents, or by their enemies. Then they sought him - Their calamities had the effect of producing temporary reformation. They became professedly penitent; they manifested a wish to know God, and expressed a purpose to serve him. It was, however, a temporary and hollow, not a deep and real reformation. This often occurs. In times of affliction, in sickness, in bereavement, in the loss of property, people become serious, and express a purpose to repent and turn to God. A deep impression seems to be produced on their minds, to last, alas! only as long as the hand of God rests upon them. Resolutions of…”

“Returned - From their idols. Enquired - Speedily sought to God for ease and safety. Psalms 78:35”

“78:34-39 Israel’s continued existence, in spite of the people’s rebellion and unbelief (78:7-8), was due to God’s compassion. 78:34 They repented: This demonstration of zeal was not sincere.”

“Num 21:7; Jdg 3:8, Jdg 3:9, Jdg 3:12-15, Jdg 4:3, Jdg 10:7-10; Isa 26:6; Jer 22:23; Hos 5:15, Hos 7:14 Psalms 78:35”