Psalm 73 - Envy

Psalm 73:1-6, 12-18, 21-26 NIV

Surely God is good to Israel, to those who are pure in heart. 

But as for me, my feet had almost slipped;

 I had nearly lost my foothold. 

For I envied the arrogant when I saw the prosperity of the wicked. 

They have no struggles; their bodies are healthy and strong. 

They are free from common human burdens;

 they are not plagued by human ills. 

Therefore pride is their necklace;

 they clothe themselves with violence. 

This is what the wicked are like—

always free of care, they go on amassing wealth.

Surely in vain I have kept my heart pure

 and have washed my hands in innocence. 

All day long I have been afflicted,

 and every morning brings new punishments. 

If I had spoken out like that, I would have betrayed your children.

When I tried to understand all this,

 it troubled me deeply till I entered the sanctuary of God;

 then I understood their final destiny. 

Surely you place them on slippery ground;

 you cast them down to ruin.

When my heart was grieved and my spirit embittered, 

I was senseless and ignorant; I was a brute beast before you. 

Yet I am always with you; you hold me by my right hand. 

You guide me with your counsel,

 and afterward you will take me into glory. 

Whom have I in heaven but you? 

And earth has nothing I desire besides you. 

My flesh and my heart may fail,

 but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.

Psalm 73 begins book 3 of the collection of psalms in the bible. This psalm portrays one who envied the wealthy. He feels his station in life is unfair. Why do they prosper without a care in the world while each day is a challenge for him?

He begins to wonder to himself what good is His faith? What benefit does he receive by obeying God's covenant? Then he confesses how damaging it would have been to vocalize these thoughts. What changed his heart? Worship changed him!

He entered the temple of the living God and his anxious heart melted before the glory of the Lord. The majesty of God and the impenetrable depth of His love outweigh the momentary trials we endure.

As the apostle Paul wrote,

Romans 8:18 NIV

I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.

He speaks of the resurrection and eternal riches with God forever. The promises of God are worth your wait and certainly worth your obedience.

Join the gathering to worship the living God and your heart will replace bitterness that makes you like a brute animal with wonder and joy in the presence of the Almighty.