or rely on His salvation
The Israelites' failure to rely on God's salvation underscores their dependence on visible, immediate solutions rather than trusting in God's long-term deliverance. In the context of the Exodus, "salvation" refers to God's deliverance from Egypt and His ongoing provision and protection. This lack of reliance is a spiritual issue, reflecting a deeper heart problem of self-reliance and doubt. The concept of salvation in the Old Testament often involves physical deliverance, but it also points to a greater spiritual salvation fulfilled in Jesus Christ. In the New Testament, salvation is fully realized through Christ's atoning work, as seen in passages like Ephesians 2:8-9, which emphasize faith and reliance on God's grace. This phrase serves as a reminder of the importance of trusting in God's ultimate plan for salvation, both temporally and eternally.

Psalm 78 is a historical psalm that rehearses Israel’s repeated pattern of forgetfulness and rebellion so future generations “set their hope in God” (v. 7). The section surrounding verse 22 recalls the wilderness journey after the Exodus:

• Verses 17–20 describe Israel’s complaints: “They spoke against God, saying, ‘Can God spread a table in the wilderness?’” (v. 19).

• God graciously gave water from the rock and manna from heaven (Exodus 16; Numbers 20).

• Yet “they continued to sin against Him” (v. 17). Their unbelief is stated plainly in our focus text: “because they did not believe God or rely on His salvation” (Psalm 78:22).

Cross references reinforce the setting of hard-heartedness: Hebrews 3:7-19 warns believers by retelling the same episode, and Jude 5 reminds us that the Lord “destroyed those who did not believe.”

Verse 22 names two failures:

• “They did not believe God.” Doubt in His character and promises. Compare Numbers 14:11, where the Lord asks, “How long will they refuse to believe in Me?”

• They did not “rely on His salvation.” Even after experiencing the Red Sea deliverance (Exodus 14:30-31), they trusted their senses more than God’s proven power.

Unbelief is not mere intellectual hesitation; it is refusal to trust the God who has already acted. Jesus later diagnoses the same heart issue in John 6:30-36 when the crowd asks for another sign after eating the multiplied loaves.

Psalm 78 continues: “Therefore He commanded the clouds above and opened the doors of the heavens” (v. 23) to send manna—yet judgment followed when they still complained (vv. 30-31).

• Numbers 14:22-23 shows the generation barred from Canaan.

• 1 Corinthians 10:5 notes, “Nevertheless, God was not pleased with most of them; their bodies were scattered in the wilderness.”

God’s discipline flows from His holiness and serves as a warning “for our instruction” (1 Corinthians 10:11).

• Believe God’s promises even when circumstances echo a “wilderness.” Romans 4:20-21 highlights Abraham “fully persuaded” that God would do what He promised.

• Rely on His salvation in Christ, not on self-effort. Ephesians 2:8-9 anchors rescue in grace through faith.

• Guard against hardened hearts by daily remembering God’s works (Psalm 103:2). Regular testimony and thanksgiving meetings, journaling answered prayers, and family devotions keep memory fresh.

• Encourage one another while it is called “Today” (Hebrews 3:13) so unbelief does not take root.

Psalm 78:22 pinpoints Israel’s core sin: a settled refusal to trust God or depend on His saving power, even after clear demonstrations of His faithfulness. Their unbelief brought loss and judgment, standing as a cautionary mirror for every generation. The antidote is active, grateful faith—remembering God’s past deeds, trusting His present promises, and resting in the complete salvation He provides through Jesus Christ.