Bible Reading: Ps. 72 & 73; Romans 9: 1-16
“Truly, God is good to Israel, even to such as are of a clean heart. But as for me, my feet were almost gone: my steps had well-nigh slipped. For I was envious at the foolish, when I saw the prosperity of the wicked………When I thought to know this, it was too painful for me until I went into the Sanctuary of God; then I understood I their end” – Psalm 73:1-17 (KJV).
This psalm deals with a disturbing problem. Although God is sovereign (i.e. He has absolute power and authority to do as He desires) and His justice is complete, still wicked people often prosper while those who serve God seem to suffer more.
The psalmist has become discouraged
as he compares his troubles with the ease and happiness of many who reject and disobey God. However, his confidence in God is renewed when God reveals the tragic destiny of the wicked and the true reward of those who remain faithful to God.
(1) This revelation helps the psalmist
view his problems in a more balanced way. He realizes that he and other godly people will enjoy the best of eternity, they also have the greatest benefit in this present life as well. They have access to God’s presence and power.
(2) Considering how short life is, if we evaluate things simply from our limited, earthly, human perspective, we will almost certainly become discouraged. We must depend on God’s word and His Holy Spirit in order to complete our life’s journey with faith and confidence in God’s goodness and justice.
Pastor Lawrence Chiazor