One of Israel’s song writers observed the prosperity of the wicked. He observed them enjoying health and wealth (Psalm 73:3, 7). They seemed to have no problems (Psalm 73:4–5). They were both proud and cruel, exhibiting arrogance toward people and God (Psalm 73:6, 8–9).
All of the things he saw on the surface of their lives made him question whether it was worth it to do right. He was on the verge of falling (Psalm 73:2). He wrote, “Surely I have cleansed my heart in vain, And washed my hands in innocence. For all day long I have been plagued, And chastened every morning” (Psalm 73:13–14 NKJV). In other words, his righteous life seemed unrewarded since it was filled with problems.
It took going to God’s sanctuary to learn the truth (Psalm 73:17). The wicked are on a slippery slope to destruction (Psalm 73:18–19). Their prosperity, like a dream, is not real or lasting (Psalm 73:20). His thoughts prior to going into God’s sanctuary now made him feel he had acted like a beast (Psalm 73:21–22).
The Psalmist concluded it does pay to live a righteous life. He confidently said, “Nevertheless I am continually with You; You hold me by my right hand. You will guide me with Your counsel, And afterward receive me to glory” (Psalm 73:23–24). God gives His people strength (Psalm 73:25–26). It pays to live a righteous life (Psalm 73:27–28).
The world is still trying to tell God’s people their pursuit of right living is making them miserable and keeping them from enjoying the good times. May we all focus on the singer’s conclusion, which he wrote in the opening verse, and remember to go into God’s house to find the truth. “Truly God is good to Israel, To such as are pure in heart” (Psalm 73:1).
