Day 8

But as for me, my feet had almost slipped;
I had nearly lost my foothold.
For I envied the arrogant
when I saw the prosperity of the wicked.

When I tried to understand all this,
it was oppressive to me
till I entered the sanctuary of God;
then I understood their final destiny.
—Psalm 73:2-3, 16-17

It is not unusual for the wicked to prosper in this age. In fact, despite the plethora of laws and regulations to constrain evil, the wicked still seem to find ways to circumvent society’s restraints and exploit others for gain. And they seem to do it with ease, without remorse, without regret—callous in all their ways.

Psalm 73 reveals the struggle of Asaph when he was tempted to envy the prosperity of the wicked. At first he recounts how all the outward appearances seemed to confirm their success. They looked happy and prosperous—“free from the burdens common to man.” For a moment the prideful triumphs of the wicked captivated the heart of the psalmist. How his own righteous acts seemed to pale in comparison to the achievements of the wicked!

Until he entered the presence of the Lord.

There is something about the presence of the Lord that brings everything into proper perspective. His presence brings judgment back into view. His presence reminds us that this age is temporary—that it will be engulfed by eternity. His presence reminded Asaph of the wicked’s final destiny.

“What good will it be for a man if he gains the whole world, yet forfeits his soul?”

Without His presence, we too may be overcome by the temptations of this age. But whenever our feet slip after the wicked, His presence is there to point us to truth. His presence will cause us to conclude along with Asaph: “Earth has nothing I desire besides you!”

Prayer Topics: Seeking His Presence; Desiring Him Above All Else; Contentment; Final Judgment; Eternity.