Psalm 73: Why Do the Wicked Prosper?
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Why does it seem the wicked prosper in life while the righteous suffer? This question distresses David. He confesses he has almost lost faith in God over the issue (Psalm 73:2).
He has become skeptical of trying to lead a good and decent life and begun to envy those with more material wealth and peace (v. 3).
They seem to thrive in spite of their wicked ways.
His life has been one of hardship, while others, who profess no belief in God, seemingly cruise through life with little or no difficulty.
They even appear to die peacefully with little suffering (v. 4).
Evil men seem to escape the difficulties most of humanity suffers (v. 6).
They have whatever they wish for and seemingly live very well with little effort (v. 7). They even boast of their corruption and how wily and clever they are (v. 8).
They are confident God does not exist (v. 11).
If He did, would He not cause their evil tactics to fail? Surely, reflects David, there is no benefit in being chaste before God (v. 13).
This problem of the obvious unfairness in God’s rule is too deep to understand (v. 16). But with the new morning comes enlightenment (Job 7:18).
David decides to keep his doubts to himself, lest he be a stumbling block for others (Psalm 73:15). Instead, he goes to the house of the Lord to find an answer in silent communion with God. Here he finally puts things into perspective (v. 17).
He is placing too much emphasis on this present life.
The wicked may prosper for a time during their short life spans, but they will have no part in eternity. Everything they gain in this life will ultimately be lost in an instant when their lives are over (vv. 18–20). A relationship with God is worth much more than any material wealth (vv. 23–28)! “To be with God is life; to be far from Him is death. The psalmist’s realization of this fact solved the problem of God’s dealings with men.” “Jesus, to Thee I now can fly, / On whom my help is laid; / Oppressed by sins, I lift mine eye, / And see the shadows fade.”
