Psalm 73

 


Psalm 73 is the first psalm of Book 3.  Book 3 contains several psalms of Asaph and the Sons of Korah who were worship leaders in the temple.  In this psalm, the writer admits to almost stumbling and slipping when he becomes envious of the prosperity of the wicked.  However, he reaches a turning point when he enters the sanctuary of God and recognizes His justice (v. 17).  He gains perspective and declares that there is nothing on earth he desires besides God (v. 25) and that God is the strength of his heart and portion forever (v. 26).

Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm:
  • Verses 1-3
    • When looking at the world around us, what might almost cause us to stumble and slip?
  • Verses 4-12
    • How are the wicked described in these verses?  Do we see similarities in our world today?
  • Verses 13-15
    • In what ways might it be considered difficult to live a righteous life?
  • Verses 16-17
    • How does entering into the presence of God help me to gain the proper perspective?
  • Verses 18-24
    • How does recognizing God's justice help us to see wickedness in contrast to righteousness more clearly?
  • Verse 25
    • Is there anything in this world that gets in the way of me being able to say that "there is nothing on earth that I desire besides" God?
  • Verse 26 
    • The Levites did not receive any land inheritance but relied on God as their "portion" because He provided for them.  In what ways is God "the strength of my heart and my portion forever?"
  • Verses 27-28
    • Comparing these closing verses to the beginning of the psalm, paying particular attention to the phrases that begin "But ... for me," what can I learn based on what the psalmist realized? [NOTE:  C.H.Spurgeon said, "The greater our nearness to God, the less we are affected by the attractions and distractions of earth."]

If you would like to meditate on this psalm through music as well, following is a link to a YouTube video:
  • "Psalm 73" by Forever Be Sure Music:  Link


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