Introduction:

1. In this Psalm, Asaph tells of a time he almost stumbled.

2. Seeing the wicked prosper while he struggled threatened his faith.

3. Asaph found the clarity he needed to avoid stumbling away from God.

Discussion:

I. The Illusion (vv. 2-14)

A. Asaph had come to envy the wicked for their perceived prosperity.

B. Note his list of reasons for envy:

1. They appear free from the typical struggles of life (vs. 4-5, 12).

2. Despite pride and violence, they are richly supplied (vv. 6-7).

3. They boast of oppression and speak proudly (vv. 8-9).

4. They drain others while filling themselves (vs. 10).

5. They defy God as if He does not see their deeds (vs. 11).

C. For this, Asaph felt his efforts at godliness were wasted (vv. 13-14).

D. The selfishness of the wicked was producing selfishness in him.

II. The Reality (vv. 1, 15-20)

A. The first verse speaks the truth that God is good to His people.

B. Asaph had to come into God’s presence to see clearly (vv. 15-17).

C. This heavenly insight proved that things are not as they appear.

1. Though they look secure, they would be cast down (vs. 18).

2. Though they thought God was ignorant of their devices, He would cast them down to destruction (vs. 18).

3. Their ease would give way to terror and destruction (vv. 19-20, 27).

III. The Strength of Our Hearts (vv. 21-28)

A. Asaph’s under the sun view produced grief, vexation, foolishness, and beastly ignorance (vv. 21-22).

B. The Lord’s counsel dispelled it all and brought Asaph into His presence (vv. 23-26).

1. The illusion of the prosperity of the wicked can upend our faith.

2. The reality of God’s final justice dispels this faulty reasoning.

3. May we all draw near to God and declare His works (James 4:8).

4. Who do we have in heaven but Him? Who else is our desire?