Psalm 73 is one of my favorite psalms because it feels so close to real life. It speaks to struggles we all face—envy, doubt, and the challenge of keeping our faith when the world around us seems unfair. Asaph, the author of this psalm, doesn’t hold back his emotions, and his honesty makes it so relatable. His journey from frustration to faith reminds me that even in moments of weakness, God is always near, ready to guide us back to Him.
Why do others always have it better?
There have been times in my life when I’ve looked around and wondered, “Why does it seem like others have it easier?” Social media, for instance, can make it all too easy to compare our behind-the-scenes struggles with someone else’s highlight reel.
Asaph’s honesty resonates deeply in those moments:
“For I envied the arrogant when I saw the prosperity of the wicked.” (Psalm 73:3)
It’s easy to feel envious of those who seem to have it all: the rich, the famous, or even people in our own circles who appear to be doing better than us. We see their luxurious lifestyles, their apparent ease of living, and we can’t help but wonder why our lives feel so much harder in comparison.
But what I find especially meaningful about this psalm is how Asaph acknowledges a truth we often ignore: the things of the wicked don’t last. Their success is temporary, like a vapor that slips through their fingers. In verses 18-19, he writes:
“Surely you place them on slippery ground; you cast them down to ruin. How suddenly are they destroyed, completely swept away by terrors!”
This imagery of slippery ground serves as a warning. While it may look like the wicked are thriving, their footing isn’t secure. They chase after what the world offers, but it doesn’t sustain them. It’s a humbling reminder that no matter how alluring their success seems, it will not endure.
The Turning Point
Psalm 73 takes a pivotal turn in verse 17:
“Till I entered the sanctuary of God; then I understood their final destiny.”
This verse reminds us that stepping into God’s presence changes everything. When we fix our eyes on Him, our perspective shifts. Suddenly, the things that once seemed so important pale in comparison to the eternal joy of knowing and being with God.
For me, this turning point often comes through prayer or worship. When I’m struggling with envy or doubt, spending time with God helps to realign my heart with His truth. The lesson I’ve learned is this: instead of wasting time envying others, focus on the path God has set before you. Trust Him to provide what you need, and rest assured that He sees your efforts.
The Promise of His Presence
Asaph concludes with one of the most beautiful affirmations in scripture:
“Whom have I in heaven but you? And earth has nothing I desire besides you. My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.” (Psalm 73:25-26)
These verses remind me that God is my ultimate treasure. Even when life is hard, even when my heart feels weak, He is my strength and my portion. The fleeting pleasures of this world cannot compare to the eternal satisfaction of being close to Him.
This is why Psalm 73 means so much to me. It is not just a psalm to read but one to live by. It challenges me to see beyond the surface of life’s struggles and focus on the richness of God’s presence.
Closing Prayer
Lord, thank You for being our strength and portion. Help us to fix our eyes on You and not on the temporary things of this world. When we feel envy or discouragement creeping in, remind us of the eternal joy we have in Your presence. May we always trust that You are enough for us. Amen.
