Psalms 73
BOOK III
Psalms 73–89
Surely God Is Good to Israel
A Psalm of Asaph.
1But as for me, my feet had almost stumbled; my steps had nearly slipped.2For I envied the arrogant when I saw the prosperity of the wicked.
3They have no struggle in their death; their bodies are well-fed.
4They are free of the burdens others carry; they are not afflicted like other men.
5Therefore pride is their necklace; a garment of violence covers them.
6From their prosperity proceeds iniquity; the imaginations of their hearts run wild.
7They mock and speak with malice; with arrogance they threaten oppression.
8They set their mouths against the heavens, and their tongues strut across the earth.
9So their people return to this place and drink up waters in abundance.
10The wicked say, “How can God know? Does the Most High have knowledge?”
11Behold, these are the wicked — always carefree as they increase their wealth.
12Surely in vain I have kept my heart pure; in innocence I have washed my hands.
13For I am afflicted all day long and punished every morning.
14If I had said, “I will speak this way,” then I would have betrayed Your children.
15When I tried to understand all this, it was troublesome in my sight
16until I entered God’s sanctuary; then I discerned their end.
17Surely You set them on slick ground; You cast them down into ruin.
18How suddenly they are laid waste, completely swept away by terrors!
19Like one waking from a dream, so You, O Lord, awaken and despise their form.
20When my heart was grieved and I was pierced within,
21I was senseless and ignorant; I was a brute beast before You.
22Yet I am always with You; You hold my right hand.
23You guide me with Your counsel, and later receive me in glory.
24Whom have I in heaven but You? And on earth I desire no one besides You.
25My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.
26Those far from You will surely perish; You destroy all who are unfaithful to You.
27But 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.