There’s something about the wicked prospering that doesn’t seem right, does it? Psalm 73 tackles this issue head-on, asking why the wicked seem to be getting away with everything while the righteous suffer. As we explore this question, we find that there is a lot of wisdom to be found in this perplexing Psalm. Join me as we look at what God might teach us through the psalm of the unrighteous prospering.
So Why Do The Wicked Prosper And The Righteous Suffer?
The psalmist seems just as perplexed as we are, and he sets out to find an answer to this question.
He first turns to the example of the wicked, observing their behavior and how they seem to get away with everything. He sees them living in luxury while the righteous struggle to get by.
They mock and ridicule those who try to live a good life, yet they never seem to be punished for their evil deeds. It all just seems so unfair!
The psalmist then turns his attention to God, wondering why He allows the wicked to prosper. Surely a good and just God would not allow such things to happen, right?
But as he continues to think about it, he realizes there must be more to the story than meets the eye. Perhaps there is a reason why the wicked prosper, even though it may not be immediately apparent.
He ultimately concludes that the wicked will not prosper in the end. They may seem to have everything going for them now, but their time is limited. Their luxury will eventually turn to ashes, and their evil deeds will bring them down.
In contrast, the righteous will inherit the earth and live forever in the presence of God.
Do Not Envy The Wicked When They Prosper: Why?
There is a lot of wisdom to be found in this Psalm we just read, even though it may not be immediately apparent. The wicked may seem to prosper now, but their time is limited. In contrast, the righteous will inherit the earth and live forever in the presence of God. In the end, justice will be served.
Psalm 73 is a great reminder that we need to trust in God, even when things seem unfair. He is always in control, and He knows what He is doing. Even when the wicked prospers, we can rest assured that justice will eventually be served. So let us not lose heart but continue to trust the Lord, knowing He is always faithful.
3 Bible Verses About The Prosperity Of The Wicked
- Proverbs 24:17-18
- Psalm 73:2
- Proverbs 11:28
- Proverbs 29:6
Who Is Asaph, The Righteous Man Who Was Envious Of The Wicked?
Asaph was a Levite who served as one of the chief musicians during the time of David and Solomon. He was also the author of several Psalms, including Psalm 73.
Even though Asaph was a righteous man, he still struggled with envy when he saw the wicked prosper. But through this difficult experience, he learned an important lesson about trusting God.
Consequence/Dangers Of Envying The Wicked
- It can lead to bitterness and resentment.
- You can cause us to lose sight of what is truly important.
- It can rob us of our peace and joy.
- You can damage your relationship with God and others.
- It can be a source of spiritual confusion.
5 Psalms To Pray When The Unrighteous Prosper Over You
- Psalm 37:1-11
- Psalm 73:1-28
- Psalm 94:3-10
- Psalm 107:1-43
- Psalm 118:1-18
Why Do The Righteous Envy The Prosperity Of The Wicked?
Here are four possible reasons why the righteous envy the prosperity of the wicked
1. Thinking Prosperity Is Theirs Exclusively.
The prosperity of the wicked can tempt the righteous to think that the finest things of life are meant for them alone. When the unrighteous obey some of the principles of life, they reap their rewards. If the righteous don’t obey these principles, they won’t reap the benefits.
2. Not Understanding God’s Plan.
The prosperity of the wicked may also tempt the righteous to question God’s goodness and justice. They may not understand why He allows such things to happen, leading to discouragement and doubt. God has a plan, and trusting Him and his plan is a very important skill we must learn.
3. Fear Of Missing Out.
The prosperity of the wicked may also tempt the righteous to envy what they have. This can be a dangerous emotion, leading to jealousy and covetousness. And if not kept in check, it can destroy our relationships and damage our well-being.
4. Lack Of Gratitude.
The prosperity of the wicked may also tempt the righteous to take for granted all that God has given us. This can lead to entitlement and an overall attitude of ingratitude.
What To Do To Stop Envying The Wicked
Do you feel like you’re envying the unrighteous because of what they tend to get? Don’t do that, instead, do the following.
1. Focus On God and Trust God’s Plan.
God has a plan – He stated this clearly in Jer. 29:11. When we focus on Him & His plan, it is easier to overcome the worries that bedevil us.
2. Give Thanks For What You Do Have
Be grateful for what you have – your health, family, job, church, etc. Focusing on the good things in our lives makes it easier to be content with what we have & not envy what others have.
3. Guard your heart.
Be careful what you allow into your heart & mind. What we expose ourselves to will have an impact on how we think & feel. So be intentional about what you allow into your heart, and fill it with things that will remind you of God. Philippians 4:8 has a list of things we can think about.
4. Know That Everyone’s Life Is Different.
We all have different stories, experiences, & circumstances. Just because someone appears to have it all together on the outside doesn’t mean they don’t have struggles & difficulties on the inside. So please don’t compare your life to others because you don’t know what they are dealing with.
5. Help Others Who Are Not As Fortunate As You Are.
One other way to stop envying the wicked is to help those less fortunate than you are. When we focus on helping others, it takes the focus off of ourselves & our desires.
6. Pray For Those Who Are Prosperous.
Pray that God would continue to bless you and them & that they would use their prosperity for His glory. And as you pray for them, ask God to help you not to envy them.
Conclusion
I hope this article has helped you to understand the meaning of Psalm 73:2 better. The wicked may prosper for a time, but their time is limited. In contrast, the righteous will inherit the earth and live forever in the presence of God. So let us not envy the wicked. Share your thoughts in the comment section below.
