“So I tried to understand why the wicked prosper. But what a difficult task it is!
Then one day I went into your sanctuary, O God, and I thought about the destiny of the wicked.
Truly, you put them on a slippery path and send them sliding over the cliff to destruction. In an instant they are destroyed, swept away by terrors.
Their present life is only a dream that is gone when they awake. When you arise, O Lord, you will make them vanish from this life.
Then I realized how bitter I had become, how pained I had been by all I had seen. I was so foolish and ignorant–I must have seemed like a senseless animal to you.
Yet I still belong to you; you are holding my right hand.
You will keep on guiding me with your counsel, leading me to a glorious destiny.
Whom have I in heaven but you?
I desire you more than anything on earth.
My health may fail, and my spirit may grow weak, but God remains the strength of my heart;
he is mine forever.
Psalm 73:16-26 (NLT)
The progression of the psalmist’s thoughts in this passage is fascinating!
The struggle to understand why the ungodly have it so good leads to realizing the bitterness in his own heart. That leads him to realize how “small” and foolish his perspective is compared to God’s. Instead of beating himself up, however, he acknowledges that his Father still loves him and cares for him, which leads him into a glorious statement of trust and praise.
Perspective gained!
What change in perspective might you need this week?
I love this!! I’ve never really looked at this verse in-depth before – and what a great new perspective for me! Thanks!!
I had never really looked at it closely before either, and I was totally enthralled with what I saw this time!
I love this!! I’ve never really looked at this verse in-depth before – and what a great new perspective for me! Thanks!!
I had never really looked at it closely before either, and I was totally enthralled with what I saw this time!
Awesome. I can really relate to the psalmist here. And I find the thought in progress fascinating and admirable. I know it’s only when I step away from my own thoughts and feelings that is when I can make room for the Lords. The psalmist was doing that. I am always also sweetly taken a back when despite our faults and sure short comings..the Father still loves us dearly. Thanks for this thought today Lisa.
Awesome. I can really relate to the psalmist here. And I find the thought in progress fascinating and admirable. I know it’s only when I step away from my own thoughts and feelings that is when I can make room for the Lords. The psalmist was doing that. I am always also sweetly taken a back when despite our faults and sure short comings..the Father still loves us dearly. Thanks for this thought today Lisa.
I need perspective–perhaps that being “ready” for school starting isn’t that important?
I need perspective–perhaps that being “ready” for school starting isn’t that important?