Psalms 73 : 1 (NET)
[A psalm by Asaph.] Certainly God is good to Israel, and to those whose motives are pure!
Psalms 73 : 2 (NET)
But as for me, my feet almost slipped; my feet almost slid out from under me.
Psalms 73 : 3 (NET)
For I envied those who are proud, as I observed the prosperity of the wicked.
Psalms 73 : 4 (NET)
For they suffer no pain; their bodies are strong and well-fed.
Psalms 73 : 5 (NET)
They are immune to the trouble common to men; they do not suffer as other men do.
Psalms 73 : 6 (NET)
Arrogance is their necklace, and violence their clothing.
Psalms 73 : 7 (NET)
Their prosperity causes them to do wrong; their thoughts are sinful.
Psalms 73 : 8 (NET)
They mock and say evil things; they proudly threaten violence.
Psalms 73 : 9 (NET)
They speak as if they rule in heaven, and lay claim to the earth.
Psalms 73 : 10 (NET)
Therefore they have more than enough food to eat, and even suck up the water of the sea.
Psalms 73 : 11 (NET)
They say, "How does God know what we do? Is the sovereign one aware of what goes on?"
Psalms 73 : 12 (NET)
Take a good look! This is what the wicked are like, those who always have it so easy and get richer and richer.
Psalms 73 : 13 (NET)
I concluded, "Surely in vain I have kept my motives pure and maintained a pure lifestyle.
Psalms 73 : 14 (NET)
I suffer all day long, and am punished every morning."
Psalms 73 : 15 (NET)
If I had publicized these thoughts, I would have betrayed your loyal followers.
Psalms 73 : 16 (NET)
When I tried to make sense of this, it was troubling to me.
Psalms 73 : 17 (NET)
Then I entered the precincts of God's temple, and understood the destiny of the wicked.
Psalms 73 : 18 (NET)
Surely you put them in slippery places; you bring them down to ruin.
Psalms 73 : 19 (NET)
How desolate they become in a mere moment! Terrifying judgments make their demise complete!
Psalms 73 : 20 (NET)
They are like a dream after one wakes up. O Lord, when you awake you will despise them.
Psalms 73 : 21 (NET)
Yes, my spirit was bitter, and my insides felt sharp pain.
Psalms 73 : 22 (NET)
I was ignorant and lacked insight; I was as senseless as an animal before you.
Psalms 73 : 23 (NET)
But I am continually with you; you hold my right hand.
Psalms 73 : 24 (NET)
You guide me by your wise advice, and then you will lead me to a position of honor.
Psalms 73 : 25 (NET)
Whom do I have in heaven but you? I desire no one but you on earth.
Psalms 73 : 26 (NET)
My flesh and my heart may grow weak, but God always protects my heart and gives me stability.
Psalms 73 : 27 (NET)
Yes, look! Those far from you die; you destroy everyone who is unfaithful to you.
Psalms 73 : 28 (NET)
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.
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