Psalms 73
BSB1 Surely God is good to Israel, to those who are pure in heart. 2 But as for me, my feet had almost stumbled; my steps had nearly slipped. 3 For I envied the arrogant when I saw the prosperity of the wicked. 4 They have no struggle in their death; their bodies are well-fed. 5 They are free of the burdens others carry; they are not afflicted like other men. 6 Therefore pride is their necklace; a garment of violence covers them. 7 From their prosperity proceeds iniquity; the imaginations of their hearts run wild. 8 They mock and speak with malice; with arrogance they threaten oppression. 9 They set their mouths against the heavens, and their tongues strut across the earth. 10 So their people return to this place and drink up waters in abundance. 11 The wicked say, “How can God know? Does the Most High have knowledge?" 12 Behold, these are the wicked— always carefree as they increase their wealth. 13 Surely in vain I have kept my heart pure; in innocence I have washed my hands. 14 For I am afflicted all day long and punished every morning. 15 If I had said, “I will speak this way,” then I would have betrayed Your children. 16 When I tried to understand all this, it was troublesome in my sight 17 until I entered God’s sanctuary; then I discerned their end. 18 Surely You set them on slick ground; You cast them down into ruin. 19 How suddenly they are laid waste, completely swept away by terrors! 20 Like one waking from a dream, so You, O Lord, awaken and despise their form. 21 When my heart was grieved and I was pierced within, 22 I was senseless and ignorant; I was a brute beast before You. 23 Yet I am always with You; You hold my right hand. 24 You guide me with Your counsel, and later receive me in glory. 25 Whom have I in heaven but You? And on earth I desire no one besides You. 26 My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. 27 Those far from You will surely perish; You destroy all who are unfaithful to You. 28 But as for me, it is good to draw near to God. I have made the Lord GOD my refuge, that I may proclaim all Your works.
Study Notes — Psalms 73
- Chapter Summary
- Context for the Chapter
- Heart Application
- What Does This Chapter Mean?
- Voices from the Church
- Outline for Preaching
- Core Doctrines
- Lessons from Psalms 73
- Themes from Psalms 73
- Questions for Meditation
- Detailed Chapter Outline
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Top Cross References
- Sermons on Psalms 73
- Matthew Henry Commentary
- What Do You Notice?
Chapter Summary
The psalmist Asaph begins by affirming his trust in God's goodness, but then expresses his confusion and frustration at seeing the wicked prosper and the righteous suffer, as seen in Psalms 73:2-3 and Psalms 73:12. He admits to being envious of the wicked and their seeming ease and prosperity. However, as he enters the sanctuary of God, he gains a new perspective and understands that the wicked are on a slippery slope, destined for destruction, as stated in Psalms 73:18. Asaph comes to trust in God's sovereignty and goodness, and he worships God for His holiness and faithfulness, as expressed in Psalms 73:25-26. The chapter concludes with Asaph affirming his commitment to follow God and to trust in His goodness, regardless of the circumstances of life, as seen in Psalms 73:28.
Context for the Chapter
Psalms 73 is part of the third book of the Psalms, which includes Psalms 73-89. This book is characterized by its emphasis on the sovereignty of God and the importance of trust and worship. The chapter is likely written by Asaph, one of the leaders of the choir in the temple, as seen in 1 Chronicles 16:5. The psalm is a personal reflection of Asaph's struggles and ultimate trust in God, and it is meant to encourage and instruct the reader in their own walk with God.
Heart Application
This chapter teaches us to trust in God's sovereignty and goodness, even when we don't understand the circumstances of life. We are encouraged to be honest with God about our feelings and struggles, and to seek His presence and worship in our lives. As we apply these principles, we will find peace and comfort in the midst of difficulties, and we will be able to trust in God's plan for our lives, as expressed in Psalms 73:28.
What Does This Chapter Mean?
Psalms 73 is a chapter about trusting in God's goodness, even when life is hard. The writer, Asaph, is confused and frustrated when he sees bad people doing well and good people suffering, as seen in Psalms 73:2-3. But when he goes to church and worships God, he starts to understand that God is in control and that His way is best, as expressed in Psalms 73:17. We can learn from Asaph to trust in God and to worship Him, even when we don't understand what's happening in our lives, as seen in Psalms 73:28.
Voices from the Church
“The prosperity of the wicked is a trial to the faith of the righteous, but it is also a proof of the patience of God.”
— Charles Spurgeon
“We must not judge the happiness or misery of men by their outward circumstances, but by the presence or absence of God.”
— John Calvin
Outline for Preaching
- Introduction (Psalms 73:1-3) — Asaph introduces the theme of the chapter, expressing his trust in God's goodness, but also his confusion and frustration at seeing the wicked prosper and the righteous suffer.
- The Prosperity of the Wicked (Psalms 73:4-12) — Asaph describes the prosperity of the wicked, noting their ease, pride, and violence, as seen in Psalms 73:4-7 and Psalms 73:10-11.
- The Struggle of the Righteous (Psalms 73:13-16) — Asaph expresses his own struggle to understand the prosperity of the wicked and the suffering of the righteous, as seen in Psalms 73:13-14 and Psalms 73:16.
- The Sanctuary of God (Psalms 73:17) — Asaph enters the sanctuary of God and gains a new perspective, understanding that the wicked are on a slippery slope, destined for destruction, as seen in Psalms 73:18-19.
- Conclusion (Psalms 73:24-28) — Asaph affirms his trust in God's sovereignty and goodness, and he worships God for His holiness and faithfulness, as expressed in Psalms 73:25-26 and Psalms 73:28.
Core Doctrines
- The Sovereignty of God
- This chapter teaches us that God is in control of all things, and that His ways are not our ways, as seen in Psalms 73:16-17. We are encouraged to trust in God's sovereignty, even when we don't understand the circumstances of life.
- The Goodness of God
- The chapter emphasizes God's goodness and faithfulness, as seen in Psalms 73:1 and Psalms 73:28. We are encouraged to trust in God's goodness, even when we face difficulties and challenges.
- The Importance of Worship
- The chapter highlights the importance of worship and seeking God's presence in our lives, as seen in Psalms 73:17. We are encouraged to prioritize worship and to seek God's presence in our lives.
- The Danger of Envy
- The chapter warns us of the dangers of comparing ourselves to others and desiring what they have, as seen in Psalms 73:3. We are encouraged to be content with what God has given us and to trust in His plan for our lives.
Lessons from Psalms 73
- Trust in God's Sovereignty — This chapter teaches us to trust in God's sovereignty, even when we don't understand the circumstances of life. We are encouraged to prioritize our relationship with God and to seek His presence in our lives.
- The Importance of Worship — The chapter highlights the importance of worship and seeking God's presence in our lives. We are encouraged to prioritize worship and to make it a central part of our lives.
- The Danger of Envy — The chapter warns us of the dangers of comparing ourselves to others and desiring what they have. We are encouraged to be content with what God has given us and to trust in His plan for our lives.
- The Goodness of God — The chapter emphasizes God's goodness and faithfulness, as seen in Psalms 73:1 and Psalms 73:28. We are encouraged to trust in God's goodness, even when we face difficulties and challenges.
- Honesty and Vulnerability — Asaph's honesty and vulnerability in this chapter teach us the importance of being open and honest with God about our struggles and feelings. We are encouraged to prioritize honesty and vulnerability in our relationships with God and others.
Themes from Psalms 73
- Trust — This chapter emphasizes the importance of trusting in God's sovereignty and goodness, even when we don't understand the circumstances of life, as seen in Psalms 73:1 and Psalms 73:28.
- Worship — The chapter highlights the importance of worship and seeking God's presence in our lives, as seen in Psalms 73:17. We are encouraged to prioritize worship and to make it a central part of our lives.
- Envy — The chapter warns us of the dangers of comparing ourselves to others and desiring what they have, as seen in Psalms 73:3. We are encouraged to be content with what God has given us and to trust in His plan for our lives.
- Goodness of God — The chapter emphasizes God's goodness and faithfulness, as seen in Psalms 73:1 and Psalms 73:28. We are encouraged to trust in God's goodness, even when we face difficulties and challenges.
- Sovereignty of God — This chapter teaches us that God is in control of all things, and that His ways are not our ways, as seen in Psalms 73:16-17. We are encouraged to trust in God's sovereignty, even when we don't understand the circumstances of life.
Questions for Meditation
- What are some circumstances in your life that have caused you to question God's goodness or sovereignty?
- How do you typically respond to difficult circumstances, and what can you learn from Asaph's example in this chapter?
- What role does worship play in your life, and how can you prioritize it in order to gain a new perspective on your circumstances?
- What are some ways that you can trust in God's sovereignty and goodness, even when you don't understand what's happening in your life?
- How can you apply the principles of this chapter to your relationships with others, and what can you learn from Asaph's honesty and vulnerability?
Detailed Chapter Outline
1. Introduction (Psalms 73:1-3)
| 73:1 | Asaph affirms his trust in God's goodness, but also expresses his confusion and frustration at seeing the wicked prosper and the righteous suffer. |
| 73:2 | Asaph admits to being envious of the wicked and their seeming ease and prosperity. |
| 73:3 | Asaph notes that the wicked seem to be at ease, while the righteous are suffering. |
2. The Prosperity of the Wicked (Psalms 73:4-12)
| 73:4 | Asaph describes the prosperity of the wicked, noting their ease and pride. |
| 73:5 | Asaph notes that the wicked are not plagued by the troubles that affect the righteous. |
| 73:6 | Asaph describes the wicked as being proud and violent. |
| 73:7 | Asaph notes that the wicked are corrupt and speak with pride. |
| 73:8 | Asaph describes the wicked as speaking with contempt and oppression. |
| 73:9 | Asaph notes that the wicked set their mouths against the heavens. |
| 73:10 | Asaph describes the wicked as being filled with pride and violence. |
| 73:11 | Asaph notes that the wicked say, "How can God know?" |
| 73:12 | Asaph describes the wicked as being at ease and increasing in riches. |
3. The Struggle of the Righteous (Psalms 73:13-16)
| 73:13 | Asaph expresses his own struggle to understand the prosperity of the wicked and the suffering of the righteous. |
| 73:14 | Asaph notes that he has been plagued and punished every morning. |
| 73:15 | Asaph admits to being afraid to speak out against the wicked, lest he betray the generation of Your children. |
| 73:16 | Asaph notes that he tried to understand the problem, but it was too difficult for him. |
4. The Sanctuary of God (Psalms 73:17)
| 73:17 | Asaph enters the sanctuary of God and gains a new perspective, understanding that the wicked are on a slippery slope, destined for destruction. |
5. The Destruction of the Wicked (Psalms 73:18-20)
| 73:18 | Asaph notes that the wicked are on a slippery slope, destined for destruction. |
| 73:19 | Asaph describes the wicked as being suddenly destroyed, like a dream that disappears. |
| 73:20 | Asaph notes that the Lord will despise the image of the wicked. |
6. Conclusion (Psalms 73:21-28)
| 73:21 | Asaph admits to being foolish and ignorant, like a beast before God. |
| 73:22 | Asaph notes that he was afflicted and knew nothing. |
| 73:23 | Asaph describes himself as being held by God's right hand. |
| 73:24 | Asaph notes that God will guide him with His counsel and receive him to glory. |
| 73:25 | Asaph affirms that God is his portion and his cup. |
| 73:26 | Asaph notes that even if his flesh and heart fail, God is the strength of his heart and his portion forever. |
| 73:27 | Asaph describes the wicked as being destroyed and perishing. |
| 73:28 | Asaph affirms his trust in God's presence and his commitment to follow God and to trust in His goodness. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main theme of Psalms 73?
The main theme of Psalms 73 is the trust in God's sovereignty and goodness, even when we don't understand the circumstances of life, as seen in Psalms 73:1 and Psalms 73:28. Asaph struggles to understand the prosperity of the wicked and the suffering of the righteous, but ultimately comes to a place of trust and worship.
Why does Asaph struggle with the prosperity of the wicked?
Asaph struggles with the prosperity of the wicked because it seems unfair and contradictory to God's character, as seen in Psalms 73:2-3. However, as he enters the sanctuary of God, he gains a new perspective and understands that the wicked are on a slippery slope, destined for destruction, as seen in Psalms 73:18.
What is the significance of the sanctuary of God in this chapter?
The sanctuary of God is significant in this chapter because it is the place where Asaph gains a new perspective and understands God's plan, as seen in Psalms 73:17. It represents the presence of God and the place of worship, where we can seek God's guidance and wisdom.
Top Cross References
| Reference | Connection | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Psalms 73:1 → Psalms 37:3 | Both passages emphasize the importance of trusting in God's goodness and sovereignty, even when we don't understand the circumstances of life. |
| 2 | Psalms 73:3 → Proverbs 24:1-2 | Both passages warn against the dangers of envying the wicked and desiring their wealth and power. |
| 3 | Psalms 73:17 → Psalms 77:13 | Both passages emphasize the importance of seeking God's presence and guidance in times of trouble and uncertainty. |
| 4 | Psalms 73:18 → Psalms 37:38 | Both passages describe the ultimate destruction of the wicked and the triumph of the righteous. |
| 5 | Psalms 73:24 → John 14:3 | Both passages emphasize the importance of trusting in God's guidance and care, even in the face of uncertainty and adversity. |
| 6 | Psalms 73:25 → Philippians 3:8 | Both passages emphasize the importance of prioritizing our relationship with God above all else and seeking His presence in our lives. |
| 7 | Psalms 73:26 → 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 | Even if our flesh and heart fail, God is the strength of our heart and our portion forever, as seen in Psalms 73:26. This is similar to Paul's statement in 2 Corinthians 12:9-10, where he says that God's strength is made perfect in our weakness. |
| 8 | Psalms 73:28 → Hebrews 13:5-6 | Both passages emphasize the importance of trusting in God's presence and guidance, even in the face of uncertainty and adversity. |
Sermons on Psalms 73
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God by Jonathan Edwards | The video is a summary of a sermon by Jonathan Edwards titled "Their Foot Shall Slide in Due Time" based on Deuteronomy 32:35. Edwards emphasizes the wrath of God and the impending |
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Life Changing Message!!@! - His and His Alone by K.P. Yohannan | This sermon emphasizes the radical commitment to following Jesus, illustrated through personal stories of persecution, sacrifice, and unwavering faith. It highlights the importance |
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Watchman Nee - a Modern Day Vessel (Testimony by Stephen Kaung) by Watchman Nee | In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of breaking bread together as a way to remember the Lord. He shares the story of Lee Lung and his wife, who started breaking br |
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The Life of David Brainerd - Part. 1 by Jonathan Edwards | In this sermon transcript, the speaker shares their personal journey of seeking salvation and experiencing conviction of their sinfulness. They describe moments of feeling the gate |
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Beyond Categories by Art Katz | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of seeking a deeper understanding of God and His truth. He highlights the need to move beyond our current understanding and be |
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Life Is Not a Lottery by David Wilkerson | In this sermon, the preacher shares his personal experience of going through a time of shaking and testing in his faith. He recounts a moment during a sermon in Los Angeles where h |
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Road to Reality - to Live Is Christ - Part 2 by K.P. Yohannan | In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal story about his mother's sacrificial love for God and others. Despite being tired and worn out, his mother had a radiant glow on her f |
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Making Sense of Life by Jim Cymbala | In this sermon, the speaker focuses on a particular psalm that highlights the struggle of maintaining perspective and not getting discouraged in life. The psalmist expresses his fr |
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Are You a Soulish or Spiritual Christian by Zac Poonen | This sermon emphasizes the importance of moving beyond a soulish life, which is living in the mind and emotions, to a spiritual life of denying oneself and following Jesus. It high |
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Road to Reality - Words of Wisdom Acts 13 - Part 2 by K.P. Yohannan | In this sermon, Brother KP Johanna shares about the emotional experience of sending out missionaries to the mission field. He emphasizes the importance of committing one's life to |
Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on Psalms 73
Matthew Henry's commentary on Psalms 73 emphasizes the importance of trusting in God's sovereignty and goodness, even when we don't understand the circumstances of life. Henry notes that Asaph's struggle to understand the prosperity of the wicked and the suffering of the righteous is a common experience for many believers. However, as Asaph enters the sanctuary of God, he gains a new perspective and understands that the wicked are on a slippery slope, destined for destruction. Henry emphasizes the importance of seeking God's presence and guidance in times of trouble and uncertainty, and trusting in His goodness and faithfulness, as seen in Psalms 73:1 and Psalms 73:28. Ultimately, the chapter teaches us to prioritize our relationship with God and to seek His presence in our lives, trusting in His sovereignty and goodness, even when we don't understand the circumstances of life. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →
What Do You Notice?
The psalmist's honesty
Asaph is honest about his feelings of confusion and frustration, as seen in Psalms 73:2-3. This teaches us that it's okay to express our emotions to God and to be honest about our struggles.
The danger of envy
Asaph's envy of the wicked leads him down a slippery slope, as seen in Psalms 73:3. This warns us of the dangers of comparing ourselves to others and desiring what they have.
The importance of worship
Asaph's experience in the sanctuary of God helps him to gain a new perspective, as seen in Psalms 73:17. This teaches us the importance of worship and seeking God's presence in our lives.