Psalm 73
Have any of us struggled with our faith, being perplexed by wicked prospering, often at the expense of us ordinary “Joe Bloggs” of this world, accepting also the ultimate justice and goodness of God, and soldiering on relentless? Psalm 73, written by musician Asaph, resonates with many believers, because it reflects the timeless human experience of grappling with doubt and finding solace in God’s presence.
The psalm begins with a declaration of God’s goodness to Israel, particularly to his faithful, followed by the psalmist’s doubt/faith conflict. Asaph confesses his near-fall into envy and doubt when he observes the prosperity of the wicked. He describes their lives as seemingly carefree, free from common human burdens, and full of pride and violence; they appear to live in ease and luxury, their bodies healthy and strong. They are not plagued by the same troubles as others, which leads them to arrogance and a sense of invulnerability. This perceived injustice troubles Asaph deeply, causing him to question the value of his own piety and righteousness. We can identify with Asaph as our secular culture similarly is reduced to a thing or a function.
Typically, people are delighted to live in such a culture drawing pleasure from things. We are free to just enjoy even if they are without meaning. However loneliness sets in, we become bored and get on the roller coaster for more and more. A mirage! We aren’t any happier.
Asaph’s turmoil is a reflection of a common spiritual struggle: the temptation to measure God’s favour by material success. Asaph’s honesty about his feelings of envy and doubt makes this psalm particularly relatable.
He continues to describe the arrogance of the wicked, who speak with malice and set their mouths against heaven. Their blasphemous speech and oppressive actions seem to go unchecked, leading Asaph to question the justice of God.
A climax is reached when Asaph contemplates the futility of his own efforts to live a righteous life. His pursuit of purity and innocence has been in vain. His doubts and frustrations are a powerful reminder that faith is not about the absence of doubt but about seeking God in the midst of it.
A light-bulb moment: Asaph, in the sanctuary of God, realises that the transient nature of the prosperity of the wicked is sliding to destruction. His faith restored, he reaffirms his trust in God’s justice and renews his understanding of his own relationship with God, recognising that his true treasure is not in earthly prosperity but in the enduring presence of his Lord.
May our desires change and may we also experience true and lasting delight.
Prayer: In heaven, God, I have only you. And if I am with you, what on earth could I want? (v25 ERV) Amen.
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