What does Psalm 44:14 mean?

This psalm began with a celebration of Israel's early victories, all of which were credited to God (Psalm 44:1–8). This quickly turned to anguish as the psalmist mourns an especially humiliating defeat (Psalm 44:9–13). Not only was the loss painful, but it also gave enemies a reason to mock Israel. The people have not only been harmed, they have also been shamed (Psalm 44:15–16). Israel's name has become a code word: mention of it immediately implies disgrace or contempt.

This abhorrent treatment also befell Jesus when He was dying on the cross. Prophetically, Psalm 22:7 declares, "All who seek me mock me; they make mouths at me; they wag their heads." Matthew 27:39–40 gives the fulfillment of this prophecy by stating: "And those who passed by derided him [Jesus], wagging their heads and saying, 'You who would destroy the temple, and rebuild it in three days, save yourself! If you are the Son of God, come down from the cross.'" The apostle Paul, too, was the target of ridicule. When he proclaimed the gospel at the Areopagus at Mars Hill, some of the philosophers in the audience called him a babbler (Acts 17:18). At the conclusion of his message, some teased (Acts 17:32). Those who ridicule believers and the gospel have been present for all of history (Jude 1:17–18).