(Not) Seeing and BelievingNäide

Do not be deceived by the visible prosperity of the wicked

Psalm 73 is a very personal testimony of Asaph. He writes about his struggles, asking why God makes bad people prosper more than righteous people. God has promised to care for His children and to punish evil, but Asaph does not see any of that happen! This question bothers him so much that his trust in God’s goodness crumbles. The things Asaph observes in the world around him don’t match what he has heard and read about the Lord. The prosperity of the wicked leaves him jealous and confused. His righteousness seems purposeless; does God even notice how people live?!? Does it make sense to serve Him?

But then there is a turning point. When Asaph is in the sanctuary of God, he realizes that earthly life doesn’t last forever. He should not just focus on his present circumstances, but also consider “the end” of himself and wicked and godless people. When Asaph dies, God will receive him to glory (Psalm 73:24). This puts everything into perspective. Everything he sees here on earth is just one part of reality. If Asaph focuses on this alone, his sight is blurred. But in God’s presence, he can see clearly!