NETtext - Psalms - 73

73:1  A psalm by Asaph.Certainly God is good to Israel, and to those whose motives are pure!

73:2  But as for me, my feet almost slipped; my feet almost slid out from under me.

73:3  For I envied those who are proud, as I observed the prosperity of the wicked.

73:4  For they suffer no pain; their bodies are strong and well-fed.

73:5  They are immune to the trouble common to men; they do not suffer as other men do.

73:6  Arrogance is their necklace, and violence their clothing.

73:7  Their prosperity causes them to do wrong; their thoughts are sinful.

73:8  They mock and say evil things; they proudly threaten violence.

73:9  They speak as if they rule in heaven, and lay claim to the earth.

73:10  Therefore they have more than enough food to eat, and even suck up the water of the sea.

73:11  They say, "How does God know what we do? Is the sovereign one aware of what goes on?"

73:12  Take a good look! This is what the wicked are like, those who always have it so easy and get richer and richer.

73:13  I concluded, "Surely in vain I have kept my motives pure and maintained a pure lifestyle.

73:14  I suffer all day long, and am punished every morning."

73:15  If I had publicized these thoughts, I would have betrayed your loyal followers.

73:16  When I tried to make sense of this, it was troubling to me.

73:17  Then I entered the precincts of God's temple, and understood the destiny of the wicked.

73:18  Surely you put them in slippery places; you bring them down to ruin.

73:19  How desolate they become in a mere moment! Terrifying judgments make their demise complete!

73:20  They are like a dream after one wakes up. O Lord, when you awake you will despise them.

73:21  Yes, my spirit was bitter, and my insides felt sharp pain.

73:22  I was ignorant and lacked insight; I was as senseless as an animal before you.

73:23  But I am continually with you; you hold my right hand.

73:24  You guide me by your wise advice, and then you will lead me to a position of honor.

73:25  Whom do I have in heaven but you? I desire no one but you on earth.

73:26  My flesh and my heart may grow weak, but God always protects my heart and gives me stability.

73:27  Yes, look! Those far from you die; you destroy everyone who is unfaithful to you.

73:28  But as for me, God's presence is all I need. I have made the sovereign LORD my shelter, as I declare all the things you have done.