Psalms 77:17 Meaning and Explanation

'The clouds poured out water: the skies sent out a sound' describes a powerful storm. Clouds releasing their water and skies sending forth sound—thunder—are the visible and audible signs of divine activity. The storm is God's instrument, his manifestation in nature. Water and sound become the means by which God acts in creation, demonstrating his dominion over the elements.

'thine arrows also went abroad' metaphorically refers to lightning striking from the sky. Arrows are the projectiles of divine judgment and power. Their being 'abroad' (scattered, dispersed) suggests widespread action. The storm is God's act of power, his arrows of judgment or deliverance shot across the sky, visible to all who look up.