Tyndale Open Study NotesPsalms 73

This wisdom psalm looks at the injustice of the prosperity of the wicked. The psalmist states that God is good to the godly, but his own experience is different (Psalm 73:2–12).

Almost overwhelmed by doubt (Psalm 73:13–16), the psalmist meets the Lord in the sanctuary. This meeting gives him a broader view and renews his trust in God (Psalm 73:17–26). His troubling doubts lead to a stronger desire for truth. He knows he can trust God and that God will save him (Psalm 73:27–28).

The seeming success of the wicked (Psalm 73) and God's apparent rejection of his people (Psalm 74) raise questions about his justice. God rules the entire world and decides when to judge (Psalm 75).

People with pure hearts (people who are sincere and devoted to God) are renewed by God’s Spirit (Psalm 51:10). They choose to live in a godly way, turn away from sin, and enjoy God’s presence (see Psalm 24:3–4).

Asaph was a Levitical singer appointed by David (1 Chronicles 6:39). His descendants were singers and instrumentalists (1 Chronicles 15:16–17). Many of the Psalms of Asaph (Psalms 50, 73–83) were likely written by Asaph’s descendants later in Israel’s history (for example, Psalm 74).

• The poet thinks it is unfair that wicked people prosper (see Psalm 72:7) and feels upset about it.

• The psalmist almost strayed from the path of wisdom and godliness (see Psalm 17:5; 37:31), but God prevented him from completely losing his way (38:16; 66:9; 94:18; 121:3).

• when I saw the prosperity of the wicked: Compare Psalm 72:3, 7.

The psalmist gives an exaggerated picture of the happiness of the wicked (compare Psalm 1).

Proud people choose pride and cruelty over wisdom (Proverbs 1:9).

The proud boast, claiming that they own everything and are not subject to anyone (see Psalm 2:1–3).

• These rhetorical questions expect a discouraging “yes” as an answer. The psalmist wonders if godliness has become a meaningless ritual (see Malachi 3:14–15).

• my heart: This refers to his whole being.

• The psalmist’s pain comes from discipline and rebuke (Psalm 39:11; Proverbs 1:23, 25; 12:1).

When the psalmist sees the effect of his discouragement and doubt, he turns to the Lord and gains new understanding.

If the psalmist had spoken about his doubts regarding the value of living a godly life, he might have discouraged God's people and given God's enemies a chance to speak against God (compare John 13:20). Instead, the psalmist keeps the problem to himself and thinks about it.

• During this period, God's sanctuary was the temple in Jerusalem. In God's presence, the psalmist receives special insight (compare Psalm 18:6).

• God deals with the wicked over the long term. He waits patiently and gives them time to repent (Ezekiel 33:11; 2 Peter 3:9). Those who do not repent will get what they deserve.

The psalmist’s feelings about the prosperity of the wicked had given him a bitter spirit.

The Lord leads the godly through their troubles and changes their misery into splendor.

Nothing in heaven or on earth is better than being near God.