73:1 God is indeed good to Israel, to those who have pure hearts. |
73:2 But I had nearly lost confidence; my faith was almost gone |
73:3 because I was jealous of the proud when I saw that things go well for the wicked. |
73:4 They do not suffer pain; they are strong and healthy. |
73:5 They do not suffer as other people do; they do not have the troubles that others have. |
73:6 And so they wear pride like a necklace and violence like a robe; |
73:7 their hearts pour out evil, and their minds are busy with wicked schemes. |
73:8 They laugh at other people and speak of evil things; they are proud and make plans to oppress others. |
73:9 They speak evil of God in heaven and give arrogant orders to everyone on earth, |
73:10 so that even God's people turn to them and eagerly believe whatever they say. |
73:11 They say, "God will not know; the Most High will not find out." |
73:12 That is what the wicked are like. They have plenty and are always getting more. |
73:13 Is it for nothing, then, that I have kept myself pure and have not committed sin? |
73:14 O God, you have made me suffer all day long; every morning you have punished me. |
73:15 If I had said such things, I would not be acting as one of your people. |
73:16 I tried to think this problem through, but it was too difficult for me |
73:17 until I went into your Temple. Then I understood what will happen to the wicked. |
73:18 You will put them in slippery places and make them fall to destruction! |
73:19 They are instantly destroyed; they go down to a horrible end. |
73:20 They are like a dream that goes away in the morning; when you rouse yourself, O Lord, they disappear. |
73:21 When my thoughts were bitter and my feelings were hurt, |
73:22 I was as stupid as an animal; I did not understand you. |
73:23 Yet I always stay close to you, and you hold me by the hand. |
73:24 You guide me with your instruction and at the end you will receive me with honor. |
73:25 What else do I have in heaven but you? Since I have you, what else could I want on earth? |
73:26 My mind and my body may grow weak, but God is my strength; he is all I ever need. |
73:27 Those who abandon you will certainly perish; you will destroy those who are unfaithful to you. |
73:28 But as for me, how wonderful to be near God, to find protection with the Sovereign LORD and to proclaim all that he has done! |