Asaph is the writer of at least 12 of the psalms. In Psalm 73, he seems to be experiencing a crisis of faith. He wants to abandon following God and devote himself to worldly living!
Why would he contemplate doing that? Because he was frustrated with the prosperity of the wicked. The blessings that came to the wicked became a stumbling block in Asaph’s life.
Asaph’s Problem (Psalm 73:1-14)
- Asaph acknowledges the goodness of God. He announces how God blesses and takes care of His people (Psalm 73:1). This is revealed throughout the Psalms (Psalm 34:8; 69:16; 86:5; 106:1).
- Asaph was envious of the prosperity of the wicked (Psalm 73:2-3). They seem to get most of the breaks in life while the righteous struggle.
- The wicked have no pains in death, and they are fat from their wealth (Psalm 73:4-5).
- They are full of pride, violence, and wicked thoughts (Psalm 73:6-7). They oppress the less fortunate and blaspheme God (Psalm 73:8-11).
- The prosperity of men who don’t know God caused Asaph to wonder if he was serving Him in vain (Psalm 73:12-13).
Asaph’s Discovery (Psalm 73:15-28)
- Worship can help us see life from the right perspective (Psalm 73:15-17). Asaph realized the terrible judgment that awaits the wicked in the sanctuary of God.
- Earthly riches do not provide spiritual security (Psalm 73:18-23). These treasures will do us no good when we stand before the Lord in judgment (Luke 12:20-21; Matthew 6:19-21).
- It is much better to be a faithful servant of God (Psalm 73:24-28). Only those who serve the Lord get to experience goodness and refuge with God in eternity.
Conclusion:
Are you on a path to receive eternal security with God?
