In Psalm 73, the psalmist’s faith was challenged by the prosperity of the wicked and the suffering of the righteous (vv. 2-3, 12-14). It was a deep inner struggle of the “heart” (vv. 1, 13, 21, 26). His tension is resolved when he entered the presence of God and discerns His ultimate justice and temporary nature of the wicked’s prosperity (v.17). His perspectives shift from envy to submission to God’s guidance, to the hope of eternal life in His glory (v.24). Though his circumstances may remain unchanged, he gains a deeper realization that God is the strength of his heart and his true inheritance – outlasting all earthly securities and pleasures (v. 26). His doubt turns into renewed confidence and delight in God’s presence, His protection, and a commitment to proclaim His woks (v.28).

We share the psalmist’s experience of a crisis of faith as we walk through different stages of life.

During our youth, we may doubt God when our classmates are dishonest, plagiarize, or use their privileged position to top exams; when dishonest influencers are admired for the luxurious lifestyles and reputations they gain without integrity. “They have no struggles… they are free from human burdens… they clothe themselves with violence” (vv. 4-6). We may be tempted to lower our standards to gain approval. In such moments, we must quench the envy consuming our heart by entering the presence of God, filling our minds with His faithfulness and ultimate justice (v. 17), being warned of the wicked’s final destiny in God’s judgment, and finding our worth in God, not in the praise of man.

In our young adult and adult years, we may observe peers enjoying lavish lifestyles through unethical means and showcasing them on social media. “… always at ease, they increase in riches” (v. 12). We may question: “Why do they seem to prosper while I live honesty and make less?” We might feel pressure to compromise our faith for fortunes, but we must remember that God is our eternal treasure (v. 26); and that we are called to value success in terms of faithfulness, not riches.

In our retired/senior years, we may see peers who pursued wealth now living comfortable in wealth and status, while a life of faithfulness and integrity results in little savings. We may begin to question whether it is worths walking by faith when life seems harder for believers: “Surely in vain I have kept my heart pure” (v. 13). In such times, we may be tempted toward resentment or doubt over our sacrifices we have made for God and His ministry or others. Yet we must hold firmly to our faith, remembering that our true “good” and lasting joy rest in the presence of God and His eternal reward (v. 28), not the temporary pleasure or human praise.

As we reflect on the challenges that each life stage may bring living in our comparison culture - intensified by social media, where the constant “perfect/successful-life” images of others can lead us to think that God is delaying in His justice – let us renew our perspective in God’s presence through prayer and worship, finding our true treasure of rest and security (vv. 23-26) and eternal rewards, which far surpasses temporary worldly success (v. 16-17).

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, it is our desire to live a Christ-centered life, even as we struggle to comprehend your justice in light of the realities we face at different stages of life. Help us to live in worship and meditation of your eternal purposes, finding our true “good” in your presence rather than in the worldly treasures. Build in us a firm foundation of security and joy in your presence and promise of your eternal justice. In Christ’s name we pray. Amen.