📖 Psalms 73
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Book 3(Psalms 73-89) A psalm by Asaph. Certainly God is good to Israel, and to those whose motives are pure!
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But as for me, my feet almost slipped; my feet almost slid out from under me.
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For I envied those who are proud, as I observed the prosperity of the wicked.
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For they suffer no pain; their bodies are strong and well-fed.
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They are immune to the trouble common to men; they do not suffer as other men do.
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Arrogance is their necklace, and violence covers them like clothing.
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Their prosperity causes them to do wrong; their thoughts are sinful.
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They mock and say evil things; they proudly threaten violence.
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They speak as if they rule in heaven, and lay claim to the earth.
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Therefore they have more than enough food to eat, and even suck up the water of the sea.
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They say,“How does God know what we do? Is the Most High aware of what goes on?”
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Take a good look! This is what the wicked are like, those who always have it so easy and get richer and richer.
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I concluded,“Surely in vain I have kept my motives pure and maintained a pure lifestyle.
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I suffer all day long, and am punished every morning.”
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If I had publicized these thoughts, I would have betrayed your people.
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When I tried to make sense of this, it was troubling to me.
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Then I entered the precincts of God’s temple, and understood the destiny of the wicked.
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Surely you put them in slippery places; you bring them down to ruin.
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How desolate they become in a mere moment! Terrifying judgments make their demise complete!
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They are like a dream after one wakes up. O Lord, when you awake you will despise them.
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Yes, my spirit was bitter, and my insides felt sharp pain.
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I was ignorant and lacked insight; I was as senseless as an animal before you.
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But I am continually with you; you hold my right hand.
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You guide me by your wise advice, and then you will lead me to a position of honor.
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Whom do I have in heaven but you? I desire no one but you on earth.
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My flesh and my heart may grow weak, but God always protects my heart and gives me stability.
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Yes, look! Those far from you die; you destroy everyone who is unfaithful to you.
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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.