There’s no doubt God is good to His people. He takes care of us, and provides our every need. But it’s easy to overlook and take for granted sometimes. Especially when we see unrighteous people prospering. We think they have it all despite their evil ways. Why do they prosper? How can they get away with their behavior? Doesn’t God see their actions? Why do I have to live this way, and obey God’s laws?
Have you ever thought like that? I know I have. And we are in good company, because Asaph, the writer of Psalm 73, felt the same way. Asaph said, “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” (Ps. 73:2-3). According to Asaph the wicked live painless, carefree lives. Trouble alludes them. They’re clothed with pride and arrogance. They speak foolishly and scoff at the thought of God. These fat cats have everything they could ask for! And where is God?
Asaph added, “Did I keep my heart pure for nothing? Did I keep myself innocent for no reason? I get nothing but trouble all day long; every morning brings me pain” (Ps. 73:13-14 NLT). Does this sound familiar to anyone else? Honestly, these very thoughts and words spilled from my heart just recently.
It’s easy to believe the lie that God doesn’t care about the wicked and their wrongdoing. The issue is that we are only looking at our present plight and the wicked’s present prosperity.
Asaph said, “When I thought to know this, it was too painful for me; Until I went into the sanctuary of God; then understood I their end” (Ps. 73:16-17). Once Asaph had come to the sanctuary of God’s dwelling place, he realized the eventual destiny of the unrighteous. One of these days, God is going to bring swift judgment and condemnation.
Asaph realized his foolish thinking, and was reminded of God’s great care for His people. He concluded and said, “Nevertheless I am continually with thee: thou hast holden me by my right hand. Thou shalt guide me with thy counsel, and afterward receive me to glory” (Ps. 73:23-24).
Brothers and sisters, let us not lose sight of our reward for righteous living. Suffering and turmoil might be our lot in this lifetime, but one of these days we shall be received into glory and forever be with the Lord.