1 A Psalm of Asaph. Truly God [is] good to Israel, [even] to such as are of a clean heart.
2 But as for me, my feet were almost gone; my steps had well nigh slipped.
3 For I was envious at the foolish, [when] I saw the prosperity of the wicked.
4 For [there are] no bands in their death: but their strength [is] firm.
5 They [are] not in trouble [as other] men; neither are they plagued like [other] men.
6 Therefore pride compasseth them about as a chain; violence covereth them [as] a garment.
7 Their eyes stand out with fatness: they have more than heart could wish.
8 They are corrupt, and speak wickedly [concerning] oppression: they speak loftily.
9 They set their mouth against the heavens, and their tongue walketh through the earth.
10 Therefore his people return hither: and waters of a full [cup] are wrung out to them.
11 And they say, How doth God know? and is there knowledge in the most High?
12 Behold, these [are] the ungodly, who prosper in the world; they increase [in] riches.
13 Verily I have cleansed my heart [in] vain, and washed my hands in innocency.
14 For all the day long have I been plagued, and chastened every morning.
15 If I say, I will speak thus; behold, I should offend [against] the generation of thy children.
16 When I thought to know this, it [was] too painful for me;
17 Until I went into the sanctuary of God; [then] understood I their end.
18 Surely thou didst set them in slippery places: thou castedst them down into destruction.
19 How are they [brought] into desolation, as in a moment! they are utterly consumed with terrors.
20 As a dream when [one] awaketh; [so], O Lord, when thou awakest, thou shalt despise their image.
21 Thus my heart was grieved, and I was pricked in my reins.
22 So foolish [was] I, and ignorant: I was [as] a beast before thee.
23 Nevertheless I [am] continually with thee: thou hast holden [me] by my right hand.
24 Thou shalt guide me with thy counsel, and afterward receive me [to] glory.
25 Whom have I in heaven [but thee]? and [there is] none upon earth [that] I desire beside thee.
26 My flesh and my heart faileth: [but] God [is] the strength of my heart, and my portion for ever.
27 For, lo, they that are far from thee shall perish: thou hast destroyed all them that go a whoring from thee.
28 But [it is] good for me to draw near to God: I have put my trust in the Lord GOD, that I may declare all thy works.
Overview of Psalm 73
Psalm 73 is attributed to Asaph, a prominent figure among the Levitical musicians. This psalm addresses the struggle of faith in the face of perceived injustice and the prosperity of the wicked. It reflects a deep personal crisis and ultimately leads to a profound realization about God’s justice and presence.
Structure of Psalm 73
The chapter can be divided into several key sections:
- Verses 1-3: Introduction and personal struggle
- Verses 4-12: Observation of the wicked’s prosperity
- Verses 13-16: The psalmist’s internal conflict
- Verses 17-20: Revelation in the sanctuary
- Verses 21-26: Acknowledgment of personal folly and God’s faithfulness
- Verses 27-28: Conclusion and resolution
Detailed Analysis
Verses 1-3: Introduction and Personal Struggle
In the opening verses, the psalmist affirms God’s goodness to the pure in heart. However, he quickly reveals his own struggle with envy towards the arrogant and the wicked. This sets the tone for the chapter, highlighting the tension between faith and observation.
Verses 4-12: Observation of the Wicked’s Prosperity
The psalmist describes the seemingly carefree lives of the wicked, who appear to thrive despite their wrongdoing. Key observations include:
- They are free from suffering and affliction.
- They boast in their arrogance and oppress others.
- They mock and speak against God, yet they prosper.
This section illustrates the psalmist’s deep frustration and confusion regarding the justice of God.
Verses 13-16: The Psalmist’s Internal Conflict
The psalmist expresses his feelings of futility in maintaining his righteousness, questioning whether his efforts are in vain. He feels overwhelmed by his thoughts and struggles to reconcile his faith with the reality he observes. This internal conflict is a relatable experience for many believers.
Verses 17-20: Revelation in the Sanctuary
A turning point occurs when the psalmist enters the sanctuary of God. Here, he gains a new perspective on the fate of the wicked:
- He realizes their end is destruction.
- Their apparent success is temporary and ultimately leads to judgment.
This revelation brings clarity and peace to the psalmist’s troubled heart.
Verses 21-26: Acknowledgment of Personal Folly and God’s Faithfulness
In these verses, the psalmist reflects on his previous bitterness and ignorance. He acknowledges that he was like a beast before God, lacking understanding. However, he also affirms God’s unwavering presence and guidance:
- God holds him by the hand.
- God provides counsel and leads him to glory.
- His ultimate desire is to be near God, recognizing that God is his strength and portion.
Verses 27-28: Conclusion and Resolution
The psalm concludes with a stark contrast between the fate of the wicked and the psalmist’s commitment to God. He declares that those who are far from God will perish, while he chooses to draw near to God and proclaim His works. This resolution emphasizes the importance of faithfulness and trust in God’s ultimate justice.
Thematic Elements
- Faith vs. Doubt: The psalmist’s journey from doubt to faith illustrates the struggles many face in their spiritual walk.
- Divine Justice: The psalm emphasizes that God’s justice may not be immediately apparent but is ultimately assured.
- God’s Presence: The psalmist finds solace and strength in God’s presence, highlighting the importance of spiritual communion.
Conclusion
Psalm 73 serves as a powerful reminder of the challenges of faith in a world where injustice seems prevalent. It encourages believers to seek God earnestly, trust in His justice, and find comfort in His presence, even amidst life’s uncertainties.
