Psalm 73

Psalm 731Psalm 73 A psalm of Asaph.1Surely God is good to Israel, to those who are pure in heart.2But as for me, my feet had almost slipped; I had nearly lost my foothold.3For I envied the arrogant when I saw the prosperity of the wicked.4They have no struggles; their bodies are healthy and strong. [1]5They are free from the burdens common to man; they are not plagued by human ills.6Therefore pride is their necklace; they clothe themselves with violence.7From their callous hearts comes iniquity [2] ; the evil conceits of their minds know no limits.8They scoff, and speak with malice; in their arrogance they threaten oppression.9Their mouths lay claim to heaven, and their tongues take possession of the earth.10Therefore their people turn to them and drink up waters in abundance. [3]11They say, "How can God know? Does the Most High have knowledge?"12This is what the wicked are like-- always carefree, they increase in wealth.13Surely in vain have I kept my heart pure; in vain have I washed my hands in innocence.14All day long I have been plagued; I have been punished every morning.15If I had said, "I will speak thus," I would have betrayed your children.16When I tried to understand all this, it was oppressive to me17till I entered the sanctuary of God; then I understood their final destiny.18Surely you place them on slippery ground; you cast them down to ruin.19How suddenly are they destroyed, completely swept away by terrors!20As a dream when one awakes, so when you arise, O Lord, you will despise them as fantasies.21When my heart was grieved and my spirit embittered,22I was senseless and ignorant; I was a brute beast before you.23Yet I am always with you; you hold me by my right hand.24You guide me with your counsel, and afterward you will take me into glory.25Whom have I in heaven but you? And earth has nothing I desire besides you.26My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.27Those who are far from you will perish; you destroy all who are unfaithful to you.28But as for me, it is good to be near God. I have made the Sovereign LORD my refuge; I will tell of all your deeds. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit wehavetoshare.substack.com/subscribe