Psalms

BOOK III

(Psalms 73–89)

God’s Ways Vindicated

73  God is indeed good to Israel,to the pure in heart. 2 But as for me, my feet almost slipped;my steps nearly went astray. 3 For I envied the arrogant;I saw the prosperity of the wicked. 

4 They have an easy time until they die, Aand their bodies are well fed. B, 5 They are not in trouble like others;they are not afflicted like most people. 6 Therefore, pride is their necklace,and violence covers them like a garment. 7 Their eyes bulge out from fatness;the imaginations of their hearts run wild. 8 They mock, and they speak maliciously;they arrogantly threaten oppression. 9 They set their mouths against heaven,and their tongues strut across the earth. 10 Therefore His people turn to them Cand drink in their overflowing words. D 11 The wicked say, “How can God know?Does the •Most High know everything? ” 12 Look at them — the wicked!They are always at ease,and they increase their wealth. 

13 Did I purify my heartand wash my hands in innocence for nothing? 14 For I am afflicted all day longand punished every morning. 15 If I had decided to say these things aloud,I would have betrayed Your people. E 16 When I tried to understand all this,it seemed hopeless F 17 until I entered God’s sanctuary.Then I understood their destiny. 18 Indeed, You put them in slippery places;You make them fall into ruin. 19 How suddenly they become a desolation!They come to an end, swept away by terrors. 20 Like one waking from a dream,Lord, when arising, You will despise their image. 

21 When I became embitteredand my innermost being G was wounded, 22 I was stupid and didn’t understand;I was an unthinking animal toward You. 23 Yet I am always with You;You hold my right hand. 24† You guide me with Your counsel,and afterward You will take me up in glory. H, 25 Who do I have in heaven but You?And I desire nothing on earth but You. 26 My flesh and my heart may fail,but God is the strength I of my heart,my portion forever. 27 Those far from You will certainly perish;You destroy all who are unfaithful to You. 28 But as for me, God’s presence is my good.I have made the Lord God my refuge,so I can tell about all You do.