Psalms 73:1-28
[1]God is indeed good to Israel, to those who have pure hearts.
[2]But I had nearly lost confidence; my faith was almost gone
[3]because I was jealous of the proud when I saw that things go well for the wicked.
[4]They do not suffer pain; they are strong and healthy.
[5]They do not suffer as other people do; they do not have the troubles that others have.
[6]And so they wear pride like a necklace and violence like a robe;
[7]their hearts pour out evil, and their minds are busy with wicked schemes.
[8]They laugh at other people and speak of evil things; they are proud and make plans to oppress others.
[9]They speak evil of God in heaven and give arrogant orders to everyone on earth,
[10]so that even God’s people turn to them and eagerly believe whatever they say.
[11]They say, “God will not know; the Most High will not find out.”
[12]That is what the wicked are like. They have plenty and are always getting more.
[13]Is it for nothing, then, that I have kept myself pure and have not committed sin?
[14]O God, you have made me suffer all day long; every morning you have punished me.
[15]If I had said such things, I would not be acting as one of your people.
[16]I tried to think this problem through, but it was too difficult for me
[17]until I went into your Temple. Then I understood what will happen to the wicked.
[18]You will put them in slippery place and make them fall to destruction!
[19]They are instantly destroyed; they go down to a horrible end.
[20]They are like a dream that goes away in the morning; when you rouse yourself, O Lord, they disappear.
[21]When my thoughts were bitter and my feelings were hurt,
[22]I was as stupid as an animal; I did not understand you.
[23]Yet I always stay close to you, and you hold me by the hand.
[24]You guide me with your instruction and at the end you will receive me with honour.
[25]What else have I in heaven but you? Since I have you, what else could I want on earth?
[26]My mind and my body may grow weak, but God is my strength; he is all I ever need.
[27]Those who abandon you will certainly perish; you will destroy those who are unfaithful to you.
[28]But as for me, how wonderful to be near God, to find protection with the Sovereign Lord and to proclaim all that he has done!
Prosperity of the wicked & their destiny
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