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73:1  A psalm by Asaph. Certainly God is good to Israel, and to those whose motives are pure!
73:2  But as for me, my feet almost slipped; my feet almost slid out from under me.
73:3  For I envied those who are proud, as I observed the prosperity of the wicked.
73:4  For they suffer no pain; their bodies are strong and well-fed.
73:5  They are immune to the trouble common to men; they do not suffer as other men do.
73:6  Arrogance is their necklace, and violence their clothing.
73:7  Their prosperity causes them to do wrong; their thoughts are sinful.
73:8  They mock and say evil things; they proudly threaten violence.
73:9  They speak as if they rule in heaven, and lay claim to the earth.
73:10  Therefore they have more than enough food to eat, and even suck up the water of the sea.
73:11  They say, "How does God know what we do? Is the sovereign one aware of what goes on?"
73:12  Take a good look! This is what the wicked are like, those who always have it so easy and get richer and richer.
73:13  I concluded, "Surely in vain I have kept my motives pure and maintained a pure lifestyle.
73:14  I suffer all day long, and am punished every morning."
73:15  If I had publicized these thoughts, I would have betrayed your loyal followers.
73:16  When I tried to make sense of this, it was troubling to me.
73:17  Then I entered the precincts of God's temple, and understood the destiny of the wicked.
73:18  Surely you put them in slippery places; you bring them down to ruin.
73:19  How desolate they become in a mere moment! Terrifying judgments make their demise complete!
73:20  They are like a dream after one wakes up. O Lord, when you awake you will despise them.
73:21  Yes, my spirit was bitter, and my insides felt sharp pain.
73:22  I was ignorant and lacked insight; I was as senseless as an animal before you.
73:23  But I am continually with you; you hold my right hand.
73:24  You guide me by your wise advice, and then you will lead me to a position of honor.
73:25  Whom do I have in heaven but you? I desire no one but you on earth.
73:26  My flesh and my heart may grow weak, but God always protects my heart and gives me stability.
73:27  Yes, look! Those far from you die; you destroy everyone who is unfaithful to you.
73:28  But as for me, God's presence is all I need. I have made the sovereign LORD my shelter, as I declare all the things you have done.